They were Mark Manning and his father.
Little reason as he had to like either, they reminded him of home, and he felt pleased to meet them.
He instantly crossed the cabin, and offered his hand to his stepfather, who had not yet seen him.
"When did you arrive, Mr. Manning?" he asked.
"Why, it is Frank!" exclaimed Mr. Manning, with an appearance of cordiality. "Mark, do you see Frank?"
"Yes, I see him," replied Mark, coldly.
"Haven't you anything to say to him?" asked his father, who was much more of a gentleman than his son.
"How are you?" said Mark, indifferently.
"Thank you for your kind inquiry," said Frank, more amused than vexed, for he cared very little for his stepbrother's friendship. "I am in very good health."
"And how are you getting along?" asked his stepfather, with an appearance of interest. "Are you in any business?"