"Chance brought me here."
"Oh, yes! Chance has very broad shoulders," answered the American: "I suppose it brought you out here."
The young man held down his head and blushed.
"Well, well, I won't tease you, George," cried Samuel; "you are a noble and generous fellow, and I loved your father."
"As you do his son," responded the other.
"I suppose it is so. But this being understood, let us talk like two old friends."
"I am at your command."
"Always the same eternal chorus. Now I do not want to dive into your secrets, but without going beyond the limits of politeness, allow me to ask you one simple question," said Samuel.
"Ask; and if it be in my power, I will answer truthfully," replied the other.
"Hem! You are confoundedly close. First let us sit down. I am all aches and pains."