The room was not in its usual state of comfort and hospitality.

Some kind of meal had been made at the table, as always must be in these parts; but not of the genial, reckless sort which random travelers carried on without any check from the Sawyer.

For he of all men ever born in a civilized age was the finest host, and a guest beneath his roof was sacred as a lady to a knight.

Hence it happened that I was much surprised.

Proper conduct almost compelled me to withdraw; but curiosity made me take just one more little peep, perhaps.