"I am surprised at you, Sam," chided Davis.
"You needn't be. You'll find, one of these days, that I am right. But how about that house and lot?"
"If you keep on talking to me, hammocks will be piped up before I finish my letter."
"Go on with your writing. I'm mum." Sam sat down and was soon lost in deep thought.
"There," announced Dan finally. "I guess that's all I can write to-night. I've done eight pages. That's pretty good for a sailor."
"I never wrote as much as that in all my life—that is, I never wrote as much as that in letters. Say, Dan."
"Yes."
"Do you mind if I say a few words to Mother Davis at the end of your letter!"
"Of course, you may. Mother will be delighted."
"All right. You go outside and take a walk for your health. I can't write with anybody looking at me. It makes me nervous."