Redmire bank was an obstacle to horse traffic, and the road surveyor had plans for easing the gradient that would necessitate cutting down a wood where Osborn's pheasants found shelter.

He had refused permission, and the matter had been dropped; but, if the farmers insisted, the council might be forced to use their powers.
He was obstinate, and did not mean to let them have the wood unless he could get his price.
"You know my opinion about that ?" he said.
"Yes," said Hayes; "I imagine it would be prudent not to have the matter brought up.

However, if Bell can send back his lurry full, the economy is plain.

It will enable him to sell his coal and seed at a moderate price and pay a higher rent." "That's so," Osborn agreed, and knitted his brows.
He doubted if Bell would give his customers the benefit of the cheaper haulage, but the advantage of getting a higher rent was obvious.

Osborn knew he was being persuaded to do a shabby thing and hesitated.