Ol' Toot had finally bit the dust at our house, ya might say.She was in the Stock Review as "For Sale" the very next day.The ad read, "Unique Mule" and "Absolutely One of a Kind."The purchase of ol' Toot would surely be one chance in a lifetime.
I didn't know what Dad intended to say if people asked why the mule is unique.How could he say, "I'm gonna kill this mule in the time it takes to blink."The next day we got some calls on Toot and Dad sure raved and raved.Ya'd never know he didn't like her much, his wrath he'd saved and saved.
New shoes had to be on ol' Toot when buyers came the next few days.It hadn't ever been an easy chore, from her first pair she was crazed.As Dad got out the shoes and nails, to him this was quite a craft.The horses lined up along the fence and almost seemed to laugh.
They knew they were in store for entertainment as Dad bridled up ol' Toot.He even holstered up his gun, though never intended to shoot.I watched my Dad with anticipation as he looked her in the eye."Now Toot, this is the very last time, and I don't want you to die."
I think Toot must have known that day my Dad was at the end.She stood so still and lifted each leg right into his hand.They had come to an understanding that day after all this time.All four done, she turned, and walked away as if she didn't mind.
That afternoon came way too fast as the truck sped up the lane.Dad and the buyer went to see ol' Toot, the man limped and used a cane.My Dad stood and looked at Toot and said leaning on the fence rail,"Sorry Mister, you drove all this way, this mule's not for sale."
