Then she heard her uncle's voice, speaking sharply and with unwonted sternness.
"I don't know what 'tis you want to see me about," said Captain Eben.
"You say it's important; well, it's got to be to keep me from my meetin'.

I ought to be on the Lord's business this minute and nothin' worldly's goin' to keep me from servin' Him.

So speak quick.

What is it ?" The voice that answered was one that Grace recognized, though she had never before heard in it the note of agitation and undignified excitement.

There were no ponderous pauses and "Hum--ha's" now.
"Don't be a fool, Hammond!" it said.