Trade Days in Texas have a long history. They began over 100 years ago when circuit judges came to the county seat on one Monday of each month. Families from all over the county took off that day and came to town to participate in or observe the legal contests and to shop and trade. Since "folding money" was in short supply, most farmers came to town with something to trade-produce, livestock, canned goods, homemade pies, or used tools. This "trade day" started early and lasted the whole day and when it was over and the trading was done, everyone went home-with stories and memories that would carry them until the next trade day. And if they made a bad trade, they learned from it, and at the next trade day, they were a little more careful.
The young learned early to study the postures, gestures and timing of the skilled traders. They learned that you don't run down another's merchandise if you wish to trade for it. They learned the value of silence. They learned the value of timing, and they learned the value of walking away. They developed a keen eye for detail-in other words, they learned to be "horse traders."
On occasion you can still find one of these "old traders." He'll show you a pocket knife and watch you; he'll say nothing. You know that there's no way that you can match wits with this guy. He's a master at work.
When you come out to Trade Days next time, look for the "old trader." You'll find one and when you find one, watch him closely, study his every move, and before you get pulled into his spell, grab your wallet and move on.