140 FIRST COUNTY PARK SYSTEM 
be a fair price for Mr. Reynolds’ holdings there in the tri- 
angle—one which the commission would be justified in pay- 
ing him by purchase?” After a moment’s reflection, he 
replied, “Twenty thousand dollars.” 
“Gentlemen,’ I said, “will you entrust»me to negotiate 
with Mr. Reynolds before the council meeting to-night, and 
close with him for his land at the limit which Mr. Shepard 
has stated he thinks a fair price?” 
We were all tired and anxious to get away. I think no 
one believed, and I was myself in grave doubt, as to whether 
any practical result would materialize from the proposition 
which I had made for the purchase. I have always under- 
stood that a like impression was in the minds of the other 
commissioners. But this resolution went through: “Moved, 
that the counsel and Mr. Kelsey be authorized to offer Mr. 
Reynolds not to exceed $20,000 for such of his property 
as the commission desires, and if he (Reynolds) signs an 
option to that effect they are authorized to state to the 
Common Council of Orange that the park commission ex- 
pects to locate a park in the triangle bounded by Central 
avenue, Center and Harrison streets, Orange.” 
Tt was then nearly 7 o’clock. The council was to meet 
at 8 o’clock. Mr. Shepard conveyed the word to Mr. Rey- 
nolds to meet me at the council chamber at 7:45 o’clock. 
Before that hour I was in a coupé by the entrance there. 
Mr. Reynolds soon came along and stepped into the carriage 
as requested. I cannot now recall all of the conversation. 
It is not important here. 
PURCHASE OF LAND. 
We were in the carriage together perhaps a half hour. 
We then entered the council chamber together. The meet- 
ing was in session. F. H. Scott and others of the friends 
of the parks were anxiously waiting. 
“Mr. Scott,” I said, “I have just closed the purchase on 
behalf of the Park Commission of all Mr. Reynolds’ land 
in the triangle for $17,500 and you may announce to the 
council that there is to be a triangle park.” 
