When Grau looked up, on their entrance, Patsy decided that their appearance had startled him, but presently she realized that the odd expression was permanent.
In a chair beside the colonel's desk sat, or rather lounged, another officer, encased in a uniform so brilliant that it arrested the eye before one could discover its contents.

These were a wizened, weather-beaten man of advanced age, yet rugged as hickory.

His eyes had a periodical squint; his brows wore a persistent frown.

There was a broad scar on his left cheek and another across his forehead.

A warrior who had seen service, probably, but whose surly physiognomy was somewhat disconcerting.
The two officers had been in earnest conversation, but when Mr.
Merrick's party was ushered in, the elder man leaned back in his chair, squinting and scowling, and regarded them silently.
"Huh!" exclaimed the colonel, in a brusque growl.