It was proposed to the Duke of Wellington to purchase a certain
farm in the neighborhood of his estate at Strathfieldsaye. He
assented. When the transfer was completed, his steward, who had
made the purchase, congratulated him upon having made a great
bargain, as the seller was in difficulties, and forced to part
with his farm. “What do you mean by a bargain?” asked the Duke.
The steward replied, “It was valued at £5,500, and we got it
for £4,000.” “In that case,” said the Duke, “you will please to
carry the extra £1,500 to the late owner, and never talk to me
of cheap land again.”
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