A few interjectional remarks about the uncertainties of prospecting only accented the other pauses.

In ten minutes they were out again by the fireplace with their lit pipes.

As there were only three chairs, Collinson stood beside the chimney.
"Collinson," said Uncle Dick, after the usual pause, taking his pipe from his lips, "as we've got to get up and get at sun-up, we might as well tell you now that we're dead broke.

We've been living for the last few weeks on Preble Key's loose change--and that's gone.

You'll have to let this little account and damage stand over." Collinson's brow slightly contracted, without, however, altering his general expression of resigned patience.
"I'm sorry for you, boys," he said slowly, "and" (diffidently) "kinder sorry for myself, too.