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—[With a great sigh of relief—comes and slaps on the back—beaming.] I’m damned glad you’re shippin’ on, Andy. I like your spirit, and the way you spoke up to him. [Lowering his voice to a cautious whisper.] You was right not to want to waste your life plowin’ dirt and pattin’ it down again. The sea’s the place for a young feller like you that isn’t half dead ’n’ alive. [He gives a final approving slap.] You’n’ me’ll get along like twins, see if we don’t. I’m durned glad you’re comin’, boy.

—[Wearily.] Let’s not talk about it any more, Uncle. I’m tired of talking.

—Right! I’m goin’ aloft to turn in, and leave you two alone. Don’t forget to pack your dunnage. And git some sleep, if you kin. We’ll want to sneak out extra early b’fore they’re up. It’ll do away with more argyments. Robert can drive us down to the town, and bring back the team. [He goes to the door in the rear, left.] Well, good night.

—Good night. [ ''goes out. The two brothers remain silent for a moment. Then comes over to his brother and puts a hand on his back. He speaks in a low voice, full of feeling''.] Buck up, Rob. It ain’t any use crying over spilt milk; and it’ll all turn out for the best—let’s hope. It couldn’t be helped—what’s happened.

—[Wildly.] But it’s a lie, Andy, a lie!

—Of course it’s a lie. You know it and I know it,—but that’s all ought to know it.