As soon as they were announced, Christy hastened to the hall, followed by his mother and sister.

The captain carried a crutch, and was also supported by the doctor and the naval lieutenant.
"I am very glad to see you, Captain Rombold," said Christy, as he gave his hand to the commander.

"And you, Dr.Davidson;" and he proceeded to present them to his mother and sister.
"This is Lieutenant Alburgh of your navy, Mr.Passford; and he has been very attentive to us," interposed the surgeon, introducing the paroling officer.
"I am very happy to know you, Mr.Alburgh;" and he presented him to Mrs.
Passford and Florry.
The lieutenant declined an invitation to dinner; for he was in haste to return to New York, going back to the station in the carriage that had brought him.

Mrs.Passford invited the party to the sitting-room, and Christy and the doctor assisted the wounded commander.

He was placed upon the sofa, where he reclined, supported by the cushions arranged by the lady of the house.
"I am extremely grateful to you both, gentlemen, for your kindness to my son when he was beyond my reach, and it affords me very great pleasure to obtain the opportunity to reciprocate it in some slight degree," said Mrs.Passford, when the captain declared that he was very comfortable in his position on the sofa.
"And I thank you with all my heart for what you did for my brother," added Florry.
"You more than repay me; and, madam, permit me to congratulate you on being the mother of such a son as Lieutenant Passford," replied Captain Rombold warmly.