The new caller was the large-featured man, Watson or Lantry. His appearance furnished a new surprise for Mrs. Burton and her son, for they had naturally presumed that he would be inclined to avoid them rather than seek their company after recent doings.
“Excuse me,” began the alleged “fog pirate,” “May I come in?”
Watson, alias Lantry, or vice versa took the want of a denial for a permission and entered. Guy’s astonishment had momentarily deprived him of the power of speech.
“I’ll explain my call in a few words,” announced the newcomer in tones of no gentleness. “The captain says you’ve accused me of entering this room in your absence. I’m a good deal put out with this charge and come here to learn why you made it.”
The boy’s answer came with confusion.
“Well, I—I was certain it was you,” he replied. “The man I saw come out of mother’s room looked just like you.”
“Is that your only reason for thinking it was me?”
“Yes—no! I’m not at liberty to give you any other reason.”
“Not at liberty! That’s funny. Do you realize the seriousness of making such a charge without being able to prove it? I thought better of you, Burton, than that. I refer you to the captain of this vessel, who knows me and will assure you that I am all right.”
“If my son has made a mistake, he will make any amends in his power,” interposed Mrs. Burton. “It was an unfortunate affair and he became excited.”