"What did she say ?" he inquired, eagerly.

"Grunted," said the captain.

"Nonsense," said the other, sharply.
"I tell you she did," retorted the captain.

"She didn't say a word; just grunted." "I know what you mean," said Mr.Tredgold; "only you are not using the right word." "All right," said the captain, resignedly; "I don't know a grunt when I hear it, then; that's all.

She generally does grunt if I happen to mention your name." Mr.Tredgold resumed his meal and sat eating in silence.