It was dinner time, and both he and Jack were at home.
"Only an hour ago.

We'd have invited you, but time was pressing." "I thought you never meant to be married, Aunt Rachel," said Jack, mischievously.
"I--I don't expect to live long, and it won't make much difference," said Rachel.
"You'll have to consult me about that," said Capt.Bowling.

"I don't want you to leave me a widower too soon." "I propose that we drink Mrs.Bowling's health," said Jack.

"Can anybody tell me why she's like a good ship ?" "Because she's got a good captain," said Mrs.Harding.
"That'll do, mother; but there's another reason--because she's well manned." Capt.

Bowling evidently appreciated the joke, judging from his hearty laughter.