He had the air of listening intently.

After a brief absence the man returned.
"Captain Granet will be with you in a few moments, sir," he announced.
"Please ask him not to hurry," Major Thomson begged.
"Certainly, sir." The man withdrew and once more Thomson and the dog were alone.
The latter, having made a few overtures of friendship which passed unnoticed, resumed his slumbers.

Major Thomson sat upright in his easy-chair, an illustrated paper in his hand.

All the time, however, his eyes seemed to be searching the room.

His sense of listening was obviously quickened; he had the air, even, of thinking rapidly.
Five--ten minutes passed.