So! Now then:" He stepped back, and picked up Simon Cameron in his arms.

The cat did not resent the familiarity, Gavin still being enough of a stranger in the house to be of interest to the Persian.
But the round green eyes still remained fixed with unwinking intensity upon the newer and thus more interesting arrival.
Which is the way of a Persian cat.
Brice held Simon Cameron gingerly, almost respectfully, standing so the huge eyes were able to gaze unimpeded at the gaping and shaking boy.

Then, speaking very slowly, in a deep and reverent voice, he intoned: "Devil, look mighty close at that conch, yonder.

Watch him, so's you'll always remember him! Put the voodoo on him, Devil.

Haunt him waking, haunt him sleeping.