"We're proud of the honor you've done us, Colonel Lee," he announced.
He grasped the extended hand with a cordial, dignified greeting.
"I only hope I can be of some service to you and your family, Mr.
Doyle."
"I'm sure you can, sir. Won't you come in, Colonel?"
"Thank you, it's so pleasant outside, we'll just sit down by the well, if you don't mind."
"Yessir. All right, sir."
Lee moved slowly toward the platform of the well with its old oaken bucket and tall sweep.
His wife threw a warning at her husband under her breath.
"Don't you say nothin' foolish now—"
"I won't."