Can I do anything for you ?" "Nothing, Doctor; I am not very well, though nothing in particular ails me.

With your permission I will retire to my stateroom," said the colonel, as he rose from his seat.
"By the way, Colonel Passford, the captain wished me to ascertain if you have been to breakfast," added the surgeon, following him out into the cabin.
"I have not, Doctor; but it was because I wanted none, for I do not feel like eating," replied the pale planter.
"Punch, go to the galley, get a beefsteak, a plate of toast, and a cup of coffee.

Set out the captain's table, and call this gentleman when it is ready." "Yes, sir," replied Punch, who was a very genteel colored person.
The colonel attempted to protest, but the surgeon would not hear him.
He remained with the planter, whom he already regarded as a patient, and though he could not say anything to comfort him, he talked him into a pleasanter frame of mind.

Punch set the table, and in due time brought the breakfast.

The doctor sat down opposite to him at the table, and actually compelled him to eat a tolerably hearty meal.