He stood in front of the window, watching the dispersal of the crowds and the marching by of a regiment of soldiers, whose movements he followed with critical interest, for he, too, had been in the service.

He had still a military bearing,--tall, and with complexion inclined to be dusky, a small black moustache, dark eyes, a silent mouth,--a man of many reserves.

Even his intimates knew little of him.

Nevertheless, his was the reticence which befitted well his profession.
After a time he sat down and wrote some letters.

He had just finished when there came a sharp tap at the door.