RECOLLECTIONS OF MEN AND HORSES 



upon the broad acres, the words of the poet rang 

 in our ears: 



« ( 



I'll promise my blossoms,' the Crocus said, 

 'When I hear the blue birds sing.' 

 *And straight thereafter,' Narcissus cried, 

 *My silver and gold I'll bring.' 

 *And they are dulled,' another spoke, 

 *The Hyacinth bells shall ring.' 



And the Violet only murmured, ' I am here,' 

 And sweet grew the air of Spring. 

 Then * Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! ' a chorus came 

 Of laughter soft and low 

 From the millions of flowers under the ground- 

 Yes — millions — beginning to grow." 



After luncheon the carriage was ordered for the 

 return drive to Lexington, and Mr. Bonner had his 

 foot on the step, when he abruptly turned to Mc- 

 Dowell, and said: " What Is your price on the three 

 fillies that you last showed us? " " Seven hundred 

 and fifty, one thousand, and fifteen hundred dollars," 

 was the quick reply. 



Without a moment's hesitation Mr. Bonner said: 

 " I will take them and send you check as soon as I 

 reach New York." The door closed as the last 

 word was spoken, and we were off. It was what you 

 might call a quick sale. Under date of May 5, 

 1882, Major McDowell wrote me: 



*' I have concluded the purchase of Ashland and 

 may have to call on you to advertise Woodlake for 

 sale. I do not get possession of Ashland until January, 



150 



