CHAPTER XXVI
STEPHEN'S TALE
On our way home we were brought to a stand at the swing bridge, which lay open to let through a ship. We were too late for the perilous lock; for already the capstans were going, and the ship's fenders were squeaking and groaning against the masonry. So we stood and waited till fore, main, and mizzen had crawled by; and then I was surprised to observe, foremost and most impatient among the passengers on the opposite side, Mr. Cripps.
The winches turned, and the bridge swung; and my surprise grew, when I perceived that Mr. Cripps made no effort to avoid Grandfather Nat, but hurried forward to meet him.
"Well," said my grandfather gruffly, "house on fire?"
"No, sir—no. But I thought——"
"Sign done?"
"No, Cap'en, not done exactly. But I just got curious noos, an' so I come to meet you."
"What's the news?"