Before the committee, to whom the matter was given in charge, had
time to call upon Smith, and close with him for the lot, that
gentleman had concluded in his own mind that it would be just as
easy to get twelve hundred dollars an acre as a thousand. It was
plain that the council were bent upon having the ground, and would
pay a round sum for it. It was just the spot for a public square;
and the city must become the owner. So, when he was called upon, by
the gentlemen, and they said to him,

"We are authorized to pay you your price," he promptly answered,
"The offer is no longer open. You declined it when it was made. My
price for that property is now twelve hundred dollars an acre."

The men offered remonstrance; but it was of no avail. Smith believed
that he could get six thousand dollars for the ground as easily as
five thousand. The city must have the lot, and would pay almost any
price.

"I hardly think it right, Mr. Smith," said one of his visiters, "for
you to take such an advantage. This square is for the public good."

"Let the public pay, then," was the unhesitating answer. "The public
is able enough."

"The location of this park, at the north end of the city, will
greatly improve the value of your other property."

This Smith understood very well. But he replied,