.
The man says nothing, sits perfectly quiet.

And George can't speak, throat too dry.

Then he makes an effort: H'm! H'm! Oh yes--unfortunately--sorry to disappoint--my brother--made other arrangements--going himself.
"The fellow gets up, never raising his eyes off the ground, like a modest girl, and goes out softly, right out of the office without a sound.
Cloete sticks his chin in his hand and bites all his fingers at once.
George's heart slows down and he speaks to Cloete.

.

.