I knew Seymour wasn't out of bed that early, and so I drove straight to the shipping office and waited until it was open, and I've been hunting for him ever since.

You and I have been boys together, St.George--don't lay up against me all the insulting things I've said to you--all the harm I've done you! God knows I've repented of it! Will you forgive me, St.George, for the sake of the old days--for the sake of my boy to whom you have been a father?
Will you give me your hand?
What in the name of common sense should you and I be enemies for?
I, who owe you more than I owe any man in the world! Will you help me ?" St.George was staring now.

He bent forward, gripped the arms of his chair for a better purchase, and lifted himself to his feet.

There he stood swaying, Rutter's outstretched hand in both of his, his whole nature stirred--only one thought in his heart--to wipe out the past and bring father and son together.
"Yes, Talbot--I'll forgive you and I'll help you--I have helped you! Harry will be here in a few minutes--I sent him out to get his beard shaved off--that's why you didn't know him." The colonel reeled and but for St.George's hand would have lost his balance.

All the blood was gone from his cheeks.