Mrs. Davis extended her hand and said:
I am happy to meet you, Mr. Wallace. I have heard the Captain speak so much of you, that I fell in love before I saw you.
I am afraid that I shall make the Captain jealous before the voyage is over.
No danger of that, humorously replied the Captain, at least the love would be all on one side. Walter’s heart is steeled against feminine charms and womanly affection. If I am rightly informed, his affections are bestowed on a female cat.
Walter’s eyes flashed fire. Davis discovered his mistake, and added:
But I am also informed that the cat is a keepsake or namesake of his boyish love. Well, well. I suppose I used to have some such feelings toward you, when I was a boy.
Where is this wonderful cat? asked Mrs. Davis.
Here, said Sambo, dropping the cat at her feet. Dis ’ere, be Miss Ame.
Beautiful! lovely! charming! exclaimed Mrs. Davis.