CHAPTER XVIII
Captain Pott paused on the threshold. He looked from one to the other of the occupants of the room. He crossed over and picked up the paper which the Elder had dropped. He slowly read the contents.
“Ain’t breaking in on an experience meeting, be I?” he asked.
“Oh! Uncle Josiah! Tell Father it isn’t true!” entreated the girl.
“I’d say ’twas purty likely, according to all the signs.” He chuckled.
“Please don’t laugh. I can’t stand it. Tell Father about–––”
“There now, Beth, you and the parson set sail for a little cruise down the beach. I’ve something private to say to your dad.”
“What you have to say to me, sir, will be said in the presence of my daughter,” replied the Elder, making a pathetic attempt at stiffness.