He made several attempts to speak with the young man on the subject, but the latter would not discuss it.

He was always glad to see the captain and quite willing to talk of anything but Mrs.Barnes' property and of Emily Howes.

These topics were taboo and Captain Obed soon ceased to mention them.

Also he no longer made daily calls at the ex-barber-shop and, in spite of himself, could not help showing, when he did call, the resentment he felt.

John noticed this and there was a growing coldness between the two.
"But," declared the captain, stoutly, when he and Thankful were together, "I still say 'tain't so.