His expenditure was most lavish, his generosity, regal; but his orders were ever given as those of a general to his army.

The least disobedience, the least hesitation, and the offender was at once dismissed.

He was a man who sought tools, and never made confidants.
Zicci remained for a considerable time motionless and thoughtful.

The hand of the clock before him pointed to the first hour of morning.

The solemn voice of the timepiece aroused him from his revery.
"One sand more out of the mighty hour-glass," said he, rising; "one hour nearer to the last! I am weary of humanity.