Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/27

Rh Aaron Poole paused. "That is, unless you want to make a deal with me."

"What kind of a deal?"

"I don't believe the property is worth a cent more than the mortgage, but to save trouble I am willing to give you a hundred dollars and take the place just as it stands."

"I think it is worth more than the mortgage," came quickly from Dave.

"Boy, you hold your tongue. I am dealing with Mr. Potts."

"Don't you take the offer, Mr. Potts."

At these words from the youth, Aaron Poole strode forward and shook his fist in Dave's face.

"I want you to be quiet!" he roared, passionately. "This is none of your business."

"But it is my business," responded the boy, with spirit. "Do you know what your son did yesterday? He came here and told Mr. Potts he was a lunatic. If Mr. Potts is that, then I am going to see to it that you don't cheat him."

"Cheat him!" Aaron Poole grew white. "Boy, if you talk like that to me, I'll—I'll wring your neck for you!"

"I've got as much right to talk that way as your son has a right to call Mr. Potts crazy and a lunatic."

"I am not going to stand here and let you insult