Calvin appeared surprised.
“Ellis.”
“They're not yours.”
“I'm purchasing property connected to the old mill.”
“So?”
“If those documents relate to the property, I have a legitimate business interest.”
“Then the county can show you whatever becomes public.”
Calvin's jaw tightened.
He recovered quickly.
“I think you're making this more complicated than necessary.”
Ellis leaned against the porch post.
“That happens when people ask for things that aren't theirs.”
Calvin changed tactics.
“Let me be practical.”
Ellis waited.
“Old surveys create confusion. Boundaries were recorded differently. Water customs weren't always legally enforceable. You're talking about papers almost fifty years old.”
“Then you don't need them.”
Calvin smiled slightly.
“Fair point.”
He looked toward the barn.
“What do you want?”
“For what?”
“The records.”
“They're not for sale.”
“Everything has a price.”
“No.”
Calvin studied him.
“You still owe money on the tractor repair.”
Ellis's expression hardened.
Eli realized Calvin knew more about their finances than he expected.
Calvin continued.
“Your corn yield is down. Everybody knows it.”
“You came here to discuss my farming?”
“I came because I'm offering you an easy solution.”