"Why, what could you do with an old, broken-down animal like that?"

"I don't know. But I should like to make a bargain with you----"

"Of course if you want her you may have her, provided you get her
off the premises at once," answered the grocer." She'll die on our
hands presently, anyhow."

"No; I don't want the mare that way. But, I'll tell you what I will
do, Mr. Langdon."

"Yes?"

"I will clean out your store every morning for a month in payment for
the mare. Yes, I will make it two months. If two months is not long
enough, I will work for you longer."

"Oh, very well. The mare's not worth it. However, if you wish to have
it that way I am sure I ought to be satisfied," laughed the grocer.

"Then, will you write on a piece of paper that the mare is sold to me,
and that I am to clean out the store every morning in payment for
her?" asked Tad.

"Certainly, if you wish it. I wish you luck," smiled Mr. Langdon,
handing the agreement over the counter after he had prepared it.

With the precious document in his pocket, Tad Butler sped homeward as
fast as his legs could carry him. Mrs. Butler saw him coming and