"Was my uncle softened, ever so little, when he heard that the Conway Castle had gone down?" asked the young man, after a short silence.
"I was with him at breakfast when the morning paper brought the intelligence," said Mr. Blount. "I don't recollect that he expressed any regret."
"I dare say; I can quite suppose it; I ought to have known that he was pleased rather."
"No; I don't think he was pleased. I rather think he exhibited indifference," answered Mr. Blount.
With some grim remarks I believe the young man's uncle had received the sudden news of his death.
"Did my uncle see the letter I wrote to you, Mr. Blount?"
"No."
"And why not?"
"You will not think, I hope, that I would for any consideration use a phrase that could wound you unnecessarily when I tell you?"
"Certainly not."