14 THE POOR WOODCUTTER.

 

“ Shall I haul it for you?” asked another.

- “Too late, Jack,” answered a man with

a whip under his arm, smiling as he spoke;
“Tm ahead of you in that job.”

“What is oak?” inquired Mr. Edgar,
who thought the hickory too high in price.

“Five and a quarter.”

“The difference is too small. I must
have the hickory,” was replied.

““How much do you want?” asked the
wood-merchant.

“Only half a cord.”

“Do you wish it split?” inquired a man
who looked as if he was acquainted with
few of the comforts of life, and was not
over-supplied with things necessary.

“No,” replied the buyer, an expression
of impatience escaping him.

“Walk out and look at the wood,” said
the corder; ‘ you'll find none better on the
wharf.”

“ The price is high.”

“ Not for this season. Last year, hickory
brought seven dollars.”