There was a tap at the door as he arrived at this conclusion, and Master Bill Blair, in a state of ink, and with a paper cap on his head, labeled with the startling word "Devil" made his appearance, and announced that Captain Cavendish was in the office and wanted to see him.
"Tell him to come in," said Val, rather glad than otherwise of a chat by way of relaxation after his late severe mental labor.
The captain accordingly came in, smoking a cigar, and presented his cigar-case the first thing to Val. That gentleman helped himself, and the twain puffed in concert, and discussed the foggy state of the weather and the prospects of the "Spouter." As this desultory conversation began to flag, and the weed smoked out, Mr. Blake remembered he was in a hurry.
"I say, captain, you'll excuse me, won't you, if I tell you I haven't much time to spare this evening. We go to press to-morrow, and I shall have to get to work."
Captain Cavendish came out of a brown study he had fallen into, and lit another cigar.
"I won't detain you long, Val. I know you're a good fellow, and would do me a favor if you could."
Val nodded and lit a cigar also.
"I want you to do me the greatest service, and I shall be forever your debtor."
"Right," said Val; "let us hear what it is."
"You won't faint, will you? I am going to be married."