Now I
doubt if I could without it. Would you consider a cigar, Captain?"
"Hum! I don't usually stop to consider. But I tell you, Jim--just now
you said something about a pipe. I've got mine aboard, but I ain't dared
to smoke it since I left South Denboro. If you wouldn't mind--"
"Not a bit. Tobacco in this jar on the desk. I keep a temporary supply
in my jacket pocket. Matches? Here you are! What do you think of
my--er--stateroom?"
"Think it makes nice, snug quarters," was the prompt answer.
"Humph! Snug is a good word. Much like living in an omnibus, but it
answers the purpose. I furnished it myself, except for the bed. The
original bureau had pictures of cauliflowers painted on each drawer
front. Mrs. Hepton--my landlady--was convinced that they were roses. I
told her she might be right, but, at all events, looking at them made
me hungry. Perhaps she noticed the effect on my appetite and was willing
for me to substitute."
The captain laughed. Then, pointing, he asked: "What's that handbill?"
The "handbill" was a fair-sized poster announcing the production at the
"Eureka Opera House" of the "Thrilling Comedy-Drama, The Golden Gods."
Pearson looked at it, made a face, and shook his head.
"That," he said, "is my combined crusher and comforter.
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