Mr. Daniels was
particularly affable and gracious; he even condescended to joke. He was
wearing his best and newest suit and his tie was carefully arranged.
Emily was in high spirits, laughed at the jokes, whether they were new
or old, and seemed to be very happy. She had been for a walk along the
bluff, and the sea breeze had crimsoned her cheeks and blown her hair
about. She apologized for the disarrangement of the hair, but even
Miss Timpson--her own tresses as smooth as the back of a haircloth
sofa--declared the effect to be "real becomin'." Heman Daniels, who,
being a bachelor, was reported to be very particular in such matters,
heartily concurred in this statement. Mr. Hammond said it reminded him
some of Laviny Marthy's hair. "Laviny Marthy was my wife that was," he
added, by way of explanation. John Kendrick said very little; in fact,
he was noticeably silent during dinner. Miss Timpson said afterward:
"That Mr. Kendrick isn't much of a talker, is he? I guess he's what they
call a good listener, for he seemed to be real interested, especially
when Miss Howes was talkin'. He'd look at her and look at her, and time
and time again I thought he was goin' to say somethin', but he didn't."
He was not talkative when alone with Captain Obed that afternoon. They
paid one more visit to the building "opposite the postoffice" and while
there he asked a few questions concerning the rent. The figure named by
the captain was a low one and John seemed to think it too low.
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