Whatever he had learned of himself was here of no avail.

He was an unknown quantity.

He saw that he would again be obliged to experiment as he had in early youth.

He must accumulate information of himself, and meanwhile he resolved to remain close upon his guard lest those qualities of which he knew nothing should everlastingly disgrace him.
"Good Lord!" he repeated in dismay.
After a time the tall soldier slid dexterously through the hole.

The loud private followed.