How do you think he'll take it ?" For a moment Tod made no reply.

He was trying to make up his mind what part of the story was true and what part was skilfully put together to provide, perhaps, additional suppers.

The improbability of the whole affair struck him with unusual force.

Raising hopes of a long-lost son in the breast of a father was an old dodge and often meant the raising of money.
"Well, I can't say," Tod answered carelessly; he had his own opinion now of the stranger.

"You'll have to see the captain about that.