"Let us hear the particulars; a story will suit me above all things at this time," I said.
"There is not much of a story connected with the matter, and I'm a poor hand at a yarn, but such as it is you shall have."
He touched a bell, and his attendant entered as promptly as though serving in a first class hotel, and had been trained to the business all his lifetime.
"Is the punch ready?" asked our host.
"Yes, sir."
"Bring it in, then, and clear the table of dishes."
A bowl holding about a gallon was placed upon the table, and the fumes of the Santa Cruz rum were grateful to our nostrils. Mr. Brown rubbed his hands with glee, and was impatient to begin the attack.
"Give the men a stiff glass of grog all round, and when I want you I will ring," said Mr. Wright to the servant.
The man bowed, and left the room to make the hearts of the laborers happy by announcing the gift.
Mr. Wright filled his glass and was about to commence his story, after wetting his lips with the punch, when Jackson suddenly entered the room.