When I began I thought I had a good scheme, but it seems pretty weak and dish-watery now." "Most things do while their bein' done, if you really care about doin' 'em well.

Heave ahead! You said 'twas a sea yarn, and I'm a sort of specialist when it comes to salt water.

Maybe I might prescribe just the right tonic, though 'tain't very likely." Pearson began to outline the plot of his novel, speaking slowly at first, but becoming more interested as he continued.

Captain Elisha listened meditatively, puffing solemnly at his cigar, and interrupting but seldom.
"I think that's a pretty good idea," he observed, at length.

"Yes, sir, that sounds promisin', to me.