But it would have been useless because it is sealed, and you know the rule at Grey Pine." "Poor Josiah!" said Penhallow, "I wonder where he has gone." "He may say in his letter," said John.
"Read it to me, my son.

I forgot my glasses." "It is addressed to Captain Penhallow." "Yes, I was always that to Josiah--always." John opened the letter, which was carefully sealed with a large red wafer.
"It is well written, uncle." "Yes--yes.

Rivers taught him--and he speaks nearly as good English as George Grey." John looked up from the letter.

"Oh, that is funny! It begins, 'Respectable Sir.'" "My dear John, that isn't funny at all--it's old-fashioned.

I have seen a letter from the great Dr.Rush in which the mother of Washington is mentioned as 'that respectable lady.' But now, sir, you will be good enough to let me hear that letter without your valuable comments." The tone was impatient.