The remainder of the office gave accommodation to three clerks.

One of these glanced up inquiringly as Thorpe came in.
"I am looking for work," said Thorpe.
"Wait there," briefly commanded the clerk.
In a few moments the door of the inner room opened, and Shearer came out.

A man's head peered from within.
"Come on, boys," said he.
The five applicants shuffled through.

Thorpe found himself in the presence of a man whom he felt to be the natural leader of these wild, independent spirits.

He was already a little past middle life, and his form had lost the elastic vigor of youth.