teen stones" as Searles phrased it.
His face was round and ruddy, his beard closely cut, and his hair light
and fine, indicating quality. His step was firm, and he seemed always in
deep study. When addressed by his fellow passengers however, he was
courteous, always talked to the point in his replies, and was anxious to
learn more of America, or as he expressed it, "of the Anglo-Saxon
confederation." He was very proud of his Anglo-Saxon origin, and Empire,
and believed in the final Anglo-Saxon ascendancy over the world.
On board ship were several young Englishmen, who were on their return to
various posts of duty. Three were buyers for cotton firms in Liverpool
and Manchester, and they were hastening back to Norfolk, Va., Memphis,
and New Orleans. Two of the passengers were English officers, returning
to their commands in far away Australia. Others, like Searles, were
crossing the Atlantic for the first time in search of fame and fortune.
These adventurous Englishmen thought it fine sport as the "Majestic"
sighted Fire Light Island to join the enthusiastic Americans in singing
"America." So heartily did they sing, that the Americans in turn, using
the same tune, cordially sang "God save the Queen."
At first Hugh Searles was a little disconcerted, when the whole Harris
family approached him in the Waldorf reception-room. Colonel Harris
cordially extended his hand, and said, "Mr. Searles, we are all glad to
meet you, and bid you hearty welcome to America. Please let me make you
acquainted with my wife, Mrs. Harris, my daughters, Gertrude and Lucille,
and my son, Alfonso."
"An unexpected greeting you give me, Colonel Harris," said Hugh Searles,
as he gave each person a quick hand-shake, thinking that to be an
American he must grasp hands cordially.
The family were much interested in the details of Mr. Searles's voyage,
as they expected soon to be en route for Europe. Mr. Searles said, "The
cause of the 'Majestic's' delay was a broken propeller in rough seas off
the Banks of Newfoundland. I am glad to reach New York." He had arrived
at the Hotel at ten o'clock and already had been to lunch.
Mr. Searles gladly accepted an invitation from Colonel Harris for a
drive, Mrs. Harris and Lucille to accompany them. Searles expressed a
wish to see the famous Roebling suspension bridge, so the coachman drove
first down Broadway to the post office, then past the great newspaper
buildings, and out upon the marvelous highway o
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