For a
time houses were met at rare intervals, but
after a while it became evident that they were
approaching a town of considerable size.
"Is this Milford, Mr. Jennings?" asked Carl.
"Yes," answered the little man, turning with
a pleasant smile.
"How large is it?"
"I think there are twelve thousand inhabitants.
It is what Western people call a `right smart place.'
It has been my home for twenty years, and I am
much attached to it."
"And it to you, Mr. Jennings," put in the driver.
"That is pleasant to hear," said Jennings, with a smile.
"It is true. There are few people here whom
you have not befriended."
"That is what we are here for, is it not?"
"I wish all were of your opinion. Why, Mr.
Jennings, when we get a city charter I think
I know who will be the first mayor."
"Not I, Mr. Leach. My own business is all
I can well attend to. Thank you for your compliment,
though. Carl, do you see yonder building?"
He pointed to a three-story structure, a
frame building, occupying a prominent position.
"Yes, sir."
"That is my manufactory. What do you think of it?"
"I shouldn't think a town of this size would
require so large an establishment," answered Carl.
Mr. Jennings laughed.
"You are right," he said. "If I depended on
Milford trade, a very small building would be
sufficient. My trade is outside. I supply
many dealers in New York City and at the
West. My retail trade is small. If any of my
neighbors want furniture they naturally come
to me, and I favor them as to price out of
friendly feeling, but I am a manufacturer and
wholesale dealer.
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