“That's what I said.”
The mate walked away, shaking his head.
Hunch was in a bad temper all the afternoon. After supper he sat in the cabin alone until after seven o'clock. Finally he got up and walked swiftly across town to Mamie's house. Mr. Banks opened the door, his coat on and his hat in his hand.
“Hello, my boy. This is a big surprise. Step right in. We thought you was up to Manistee by now.”
“I thought I was going myself.”
“Take off your coat—here, let me have it. How'd you manage it?”
“I—I found I couldn't get away.”
“Ain't that fine, though. Mother, here's Mr. Badeau.” Mrs. Banks was in the front room straightening her bonnet.
“How d'ye do?” she said, coming into the hall and shaking hands. “Glad to see you. Father and I was just starting for prayer-meeting.”
“Go right along, Mis' Banks. Don't stay on my account.”