"Indeed?" Canby raised a politely surprised eyebrow.
"Yes," he prattled on, "I am totally ignorant of agricultural matters; but I hope to learn and make a good thing, ultimately, out of this dry-farming proposition. I've got a little money, and I intend to invest it in developing this homestead. By mixing brains with industry I hope by next fall to get an ample return upon my money and labour. I trust I am not too optimistic?"
"It would not seem so," Mr. Canby replied, guardedly. "How are you fixed for horses?"
"I was just going to ask you about that," Wallie exclaimed. "I want to plow, and haul some fence posts, and I shall need horses. Can you recommend a team that would suit me?"
"Next Thursday at two o'clock there will be a stock sale at my place and I have no doubt that you will be able to pick up something there for your purpose."
"That's splendid!" Wallie cried, delightedly. "I shall seek you out, Mr. Canby, and ask you to assist me in making a selection. I've been thinking of buying a cow, too--this is rare good luck, isn't it, to be able to purchase what I need without going so far for it!"
"I shall be present--hunt me up--two o'clock, Thursday."
With a smile and a nod Canby gathered up his reins and departed while Wallie with a glowing face looked after him and declared aloud: "That's what I call real Western sociability!"