He was aware that in his muddy uniform he made no imposing figure, but his spirit was as high as ever, and the touch of recklessness was still there.
"I saw some men coming down the path," he replied; "men with whom I do not care to associate, and I turned aside to avoid them.

I beheld the open door and stepped within, but I did not know the chamber was occupied, and it was far from my purpose to intrude upon you or any one.
I trust, sir, that you will believe me." The lad took off his cap and bowed.

His face was now revealed more clearly, and it was a fine one, splendidly molded, intellectual, and with noble blue eyes.

After all, despite the mud and stains, he made a graceful figure as he stood there, so obviously confident of himself, but respectful.
The spark leaped again from the eyes of Colonel Woodville, and, remembering something, there was a slight warmth about the heart which lately had been so cold and bitter.
"I do not blame you," he said.

"A lad, one in his formative years, cannot be too careful about his associates.