“My dear uncle!” exclaimed John Wade, with effusion, for he was a polite man, and could act when it suited his interests to do so, “I am glad to see you. How is your health?”
“I am getting older every day, John.”
“You don’t look a day older, sir,” said John, who did not believe what he said, for he could plainly see that his uncle had grown older since he last saw him.
“You think so, John, but I feel it. Your coming is a surprise. You did not write that you intended sailing.”
“I formed the determination very suddenly, sir.”
“Were you tired of Europe?”
“No; but I wanted to see you, sir.”
“Thank you, John,” said his uncle, pressing his nephew’s hand. “I am glad you think so much of me. Did you have a pleasant voyage?”
“Rather rough, sir.”
“You have had no supper, of course? If you will ring the bell, the housekeeper will see that some is got ready for you.”