It is unmistakable, as I said.

You are Tristram ?" "I am; though I don't see why it should be unmistakable." "Those eyes--that voice! It is impossible you should not be Margaret's son!" "My mother's name was Margaret," Tristram answered; "that's true enough.

She died when I was born." "Tristram," said his visitor, lowering the lantern and bowing his head, "I was her unworthy husband, and am your father, Roderick Salt." "That would certainly be plausible, but for one difficulty." "What is it ?" "My father was drowned some months before I was born." "You are mistaken.

He was partially drowned, but not quite." "I admit that alters the case." "Shall I tell you how it happened ?" "By all means, sir; for I think the story must be interesting.
At the same time I ought to warn you that I already possess a father, on whom you can scarcely improve." "To whom do you refer ?" "He is called Captain Barker by those who love him less than I." "Is it he, then, that has brought you up?
Curse him!" Tristram opened his eyes.

"Why should you curse him ?" he asked.
"Because he has stolen your love from me." "But--excuse me--it is only this moment that I have heard you were competing for it." "He has told you evil concerning me." "On the contrary, he has never uttered your name.