But he could not stand and say little words, when he had in truth nothing to say.

He could not keep his ground when he felt that he was not using the ground upon which he stood.

He had not learned the art of assuming himself to be of importance in whatever place he might find himself.

It was this art which Crosbie had learned and by this art that he had flourished.

So Crofts retired and leaned against the wall near the door; and Crosbie came forward and shone like an Apollo among all the guests.