As he did so, Graves, dignified and precise as ever, entered, carrying a small portfolio filled with papers.
"Mornin', Mr.Graves," said the captain; "glad to see you, even under such distressin' circumstances, as the undertaker said to the sick man.
Feelin' all right again, I hope.

No more colds or nothin' like that ?" "No.

Thank you.

I am quite well, at present." "That's hearty.

If you and me don't do any more buggy ridin' in Cape Cod typhoons, we'll last a spell yet, hey?
What you got there, the death warrant ?" referring to the portfolio and its contents.
Mr.Graves evidently did not consider this flippancy worth a reply, for he made none.
"Sit down, gentlemen," said Sylvester.
The four took chairs at the table.