He wore the
uniform of the army, and was battling the mosquitos with the smoke of a
plantation cigar, which bore a very striking resemblance to those rolls
of the weed vulgarly denominated "long nines."
This gentleman was Henry Carroll, who had been in waiting three days for
the sailing of the Chalmetta. On his return from Georgia he had not
deemed it prudent to visit Bellevue. Of the startling events which had
transpired there since his departure he was in entire ignorance.
"No prospect of getting off to-night, is there?" said he to Uncle
Nathan.
"Not the least," replied the latter. "The cap'n just told me the mail
hadn't come, so he should have to wait till mornin'."
Henry turned to Uncle Nathan rather sharply, to discover any mischief
which might lurk in his expression. Perceiving that he looked perfectly
sincere, and was innocent of any intention to quiz him, he merely
uttered, in the most contemptuous tone, the single word "Humbug!"
"You seem a leetle out o' sorts," returned Uncle Nathan, piqued at the
coldness with which his intelligence was received.
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