"Alright", we said, both happy that we'd come.
We sat on our old bench, Walter and me.
We looked then squarely and that formed our deed.
This Saturday, horse trading might be done.
Come listen, neighbour, I've a horse for sale.
Well trained, experienced and good to go.
Do you mean old, my man? I'll take your nag.
I'll give two yearlings, both perfectly broke.
Yes, neighbour, I have seen your foals around
The pasture. I think you mean barely broke.
As younger stock, how long they'll work for you!
Not one but two, so what if one might fail!
If they might fail, I'd better then refrain.
Your offer sounds as if it might be bad.
Give just a bit to make our deal more fair;
Your aged beast is worth less than my stock.
But neither might as yet be any good.
I'll give my mare and add a goat for both.
My man, I will agree with you, but note:
Your gal may yet decease before we close.
I'll give, my man, but you must give to me.
With your young pair as well, give me that hen.
Alright, but neighbour, still I need some eggs.
I'll bring my yearlings Monday and exchange.
I'll re-suggest just this: come Tuesday for
A sandwich and my mare and goat I'll give.
"Alright", we said, both happy that we'd won.
We spat in our palms, old Walter and me,
Then we shook firmly and that was our deed.
When Tuesday came, eggs, fowl, and trade were done.
