Benjamin , this is Frank Braithwaite . Frank , this is Benjamin Selby , the high line of the gulf shore , as I told you . '' While Mr. Murray was speaking , the two men looked steadily at each other . The few seconds seemed very long ; when they had passed , Benjamin knew that the other man was his rival . Braithwaite was the first to speak . He put out his hand with easy cordiality . `` I am glad to meet you , Mr. Selby , '' he said heartily , `` although I am afraid I should feel very green in the presence of such a veteran fisherman as yourself . '' His frank courtesy compelled some return . Benjamin took the proffered hand with restraint . `` I 'm sorry there 's no mackerel going this afternoon , '' continued the American . `` I wanted to have a chance at them . I never saw mackerel caught before . I suppose I 'll be very awkward at first . '' `` It 's not a very hard thing to do , '' said Benjamin stiffly , speaking for the first time since their meeting . `` Most anybody could catch mackerel for a while -- it 's the sticking to it that counts . '' He turned abruptly and went back to his boat . He could not force himself to talk civilly to the stranger , with that newly born demon of distrust gnawing at his heart . `` I think I 'll go out , '' he said . `` It 's freshening up . I should n't wonder if the mackerel schooled soon . ''
`` I 'll go , too , then , '' said Mr. XXXXX .
American Benjamin Braithwaite Frank Murray Selby cordiality first presence seconds