A farmer in the English countryside had a litter of puppies he was looking to sell. He was posting an ad on a fence post when a young boy, about seven years old, came over to him.
“Sir, I’d really like to buy one of your puppies,” the boy said.
“Alright, but these pups are purebred and they’re not cheap,” replied the farmer.
The boy thought for a moment, then reached into his pocket and asked, “I have 39 pence. Could I at least take a look at them for that?”
“Of course,” the farmer responded softly and called out, “Daisy, come here!”
Out from the kennel came a dog, followed by four lively puppies bouncing along. The boy’s eyes sparkled with joy.
As the puppies approached the fence, the boy noticed another one, limping slightly, struggling to keep up with his sprightly siblings. The little one seemed quite clumsy.
“I’d like that puppy,” the boy stated with determination, pointing at the limping one.
“Are you sure, lad, that this is the one you want?” the farmer asked, surprised. “He won’t be able to run fast with you.”
“I don’t need him to,” the boy replied.
The boy lifted his trouser leg to reveal a neat prosthetic.
“You see, sir, I can’t run fast either. I just need someone who understands me… How much do I owe you for him?”
“Nothing at all.”
The old farmer gently picked up the quiet puppy and held him out to the boy.
“Love isn’t something you pay for.”
