"Where are the stairs?"
"They stand back as you go in—they are very broad."
"Is there anything particular about the railing?"
The sailor paused. "Not that I remember, now," he said.
"Can't you describe it?—What is it made of?"
"Some kind of wood—dark wood—mahogany."
"What is the shape of the balusters?"
He could not tell; which Mr. Wyllys thought he ought to have done; for they were rather peculiar, being twisted, and would probably be remembered by most children brought up in the house.
Mrs. Stanley then begged he would describe the furniture of the drawing-room, such as it was the last summer he had passed at Greatwood. He seemed to hesitate, and change countenance, more than he had yet done; so much so, as to strike Mrs. Stanley herself; but he immediately rallied again.
"Well," said he, "you ask a man the very things he wouldn't be likely to put on his log. But I'll make it all out ship-shape presently." He stooped to pick up his handkerchief, which had fallen again, and was going to proceed, when Mr. Clapp interrupted him.