“I have no doubt you will answer my purpose,” said the professor, yawning, as if he did not feel much interest in the subject.
Bernard was rather disappointed. He wished the professor would talk to him on his specialty, as it would be interesting and instructive.
“Are we going to stay abroad long?” he asked.
“My plans are not fully formed,” said the professor. He gave the impression of not caring to talk on the subject, and Bernard took the hint, and ceased to question him. He found time hanging heavily on his hands, as he appeared to have no duties and thought it might be interesting to make some acquaintances on board the ship.
There were ten passengers besides Professor Puffer and himself. The first he became acquainted with was a thin, sallow-faced man who wore green glasses. What he was Bernard could not conjecture, but soon learned.
He was standing forward looking out at the white capped waves when a voice accosted him. “Young man, are you bilious?”
Opening his eyes in surprise, Bernard recognized the sallow-faced passenger.
“I don’t think I am,” he answered.
“I am Dr. Felix Hampton,” said his new acquaintance. “I have discovered a medicine which will effectually cure biliousness.”
“Indeed, sir! You will be a public benefactor, in that case.”