The men, too, leaned forward in attention; the story of Bart's disappearance and death had been discussed up and down the coast for years.
"Well, he's alive," rejoined the captain with a triumphant tone in his voice, "and he'll be here in a week--comin' to Amboy on a steamer.
There ain't no mistake about it; here's his letter." The announcement was received in dead silence.

To be surprised was not characteristic of these men, especially over a matter of this kind.
Death was a part of their daily experience, and a resurrection neither extraordinary nor uncommon.

They were glad for the captain, if the captain was glad--and he, evidently was.

But what did Bart's turning up at this late day mean?
Had his money given out, or was he figuring to get something out of his father--something he couldn't get as long as he remained dead?
The captain continued, his voice stronger and with a more positive ring in it: "He's part owner in a mine now, and he's comin' home to see me and to straighten out some things he's interested in." It was the first time in nearly twenty years that he had ever been able to speak of his son with pride.
A ripple of pleasure went through the room.

If the prodigal was bringing some money with him and was not to be a drag on the captain, that put a new aspect on the situation.