They meant that the enemy was ready to bite, and that the conspiracy had ceased to be active.

He perceived that a stripped ivy-twig, with the leaves scattered around it, stretched at his feet.

That was another and corroborative sign, clearer to him than printed capitals.

The reading of it declared that the Revolt had collapsed.

He wound and unwound his handkerchief about his fingers mechanically: great curses were in his throat.