Little Britches

A few weeks after the Two Dog incident, Ralph’s parents discuss buying a cow at a local auction. Ralph’s father allows him to accompany them, as his work at Fred’s earned part of the money for the cow. At the auction, Fred convinces Ralph’s father to buy two cows instead of one, offering to help Ralph’s father feed his horses with his extra alfalfa. Ralph’s father goes to consult with his mother while Ralph looks at horses. After the auction concludes, everyone has a big lunch, which consists of a huge roasted calf plus milk and pastry treats.

The horse auction begins, and Ralph and his parents note how much money the horses are going for. Ralph’s parents discuss finances, and Fred takes Ralph to use the bathroom. Ralph sees Fred slip a silver dollar to the auction-runner and when the cow auction begins, the two cows Ralph’s parents want to buy are not brought until the end. Only Mrs. Corcoran has money left to spend on them, but Fred steps on her feet to distract her from the bidding and Mr. White ends the auction before she can offer more money. Ralph’s parents buy both cows for around $26, far cheaper than the other cows went for. On the way home, Ralph’s mother admits she spent too much on home items, but Ralph’s father laughs it off.