"I have just come into this office this minute." "Well, then, what is it, Mr.Rae ?" The Captain's voice and manner were distinctly imperious, if not overbearing.
Mr.Rae, however, was king of his own castle.

"Will you not be seated, Sir ?" he said, pointing to a chair.

"Sit down, young gentlemen." His quiet dignity, his perfect courtesy, recalled the Captain to himself.

"I beg your pardon, Mr.Rae, but I am really much disturbed.
Can we begin at once ?" He glanced as he spoke at Mr.Dunn, who immediately rose.
"Sit down, Mr.Dunn," said Mr.Rae quietly.

"I have asked this young gentleman," he continued, turning to the Captain, "to remain.