The Drummer’s Deed: A Tale of Lost Blocks and Mutual Recrimination

A prominent real estate transaction occurred in this city involving a block of land. The property was owned by a certain person and could be bought at a reasonable price. They then drove back to town. Upon arrival, the commercial traveler told some local owner of the property and made an offer for it.

It transpired, however, that the block mentioned by the latter was not the block intended by the drummer [traveling salesman]. The offer was accepted, paid, and the sale consummated. The owner sold his property, as he claims he thought, while the traveling man supposed he was purchasing other property.

Later in the day, the handler of the title examined his deed and found that the one he had bought were not the same. A scene followed interlarded with mutual recriminations in which much profanity was used. As the seller had the 'stronger' arm in point of law, a settlement was ultimately reached by the drummer paying some compensation. His wife returned to town.

The matter was a general conversation topic yesterday and public opinion sums up as follows: 'No doubt the conveyor of the property was an honest supposing the traveling man wanted to buy the property; he [the seller] owned it, but his retention of any part of the purchase money after the mistake was discovered is very reprehensible. This stranger may be very much incensed and in view of this transaction will give a representation of the whole community and the good name of the city will be wrongfully impeached.'