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, 



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