A short, well-trimmed beard, of the type affected by some naval men, gave him a somewhat unusual appearance.

Otherwise he carried himself like a British cavalry officer in mufti.
He advanced into the room and bowed easily.

Brett, who had risen, instantly felt that his visitor was one of those people who erect invisible barriers between themselves and strangers.
"My errand will occupy some time, perhaps half an hour, to permit of full explanation," said Mr.Hume.

"May I ask--" "I am completely at your service.

Take that chair.