They had disliked each other with a completeness partly bred of racial hatred, partly the outcome of diverse interests.

But of late years they had drifted apart.

There was no reason why the friendship, such as it was, should not have lapsed into a mere bowing acquaintance.

For these men were foreigners, understanding fully the value of the bow as an interchange of masculine courtesy.

Englishmen bow badly.
Steinmetz knew that the Frenchman had recognized him before entering the room.