There was the usual crowd of buyers and many strange faces; the usual stacks of furniture of the usual quality, and other lots less familiar.

Mr.Waddington stood in his accustomed place but not in his accustomed attitude.

The change in him was obvious but in a sense pathetic.

He was quietly dressed, and his manner denoted a new nervousness, not to say embarrassment.

Drops of perspiration stood upon his forehead.