He examined the paints and admired the collection of blood-thirsty old weapons over the mantel, but with the indirect interest of a man who is thinking of other things.

At the end, he paused before the window, which, like the one in Breitmann's room, afforded a clear outlook to the open waters.

Night was already mistress of the sea; and below, the village lights twinkled from various points.
Laura tried on three gowns, to the very great surprise of her maid.
Usually her mistress told her in the morning what to lay out for dinner.

Here there were two fine-looking young men about, and yet she was for selecting the simplest gown of the three.

The little French maid did not understand the reason, nor at that moment could her mistress have readily explained.