They were the sole occupants of the place.

It was the day that Annixter had chosen for his barn-dance and, in consequence, Quien Sabe was in fete and work suspended.

Presley and Vanamee had arranged to spend the day in each other's company, lunching at Solotari's and taking a long tramp in the afternoon.

For the moment they sat back in their chairs, their meal all but finished.

Solotari brought black coffee and a small carafe of mescal, and retiring to a corner of the room, went to sleep.
All through the meal Presley had been wondering over a certain change he observed in his friend.