He did not say a word but just stood.

In my trouble I could not think of anything to say, I merely wanted to resign.

There was an awkward pause, a dreary pause, a horrible pause.

Then I thought of something, and looked up into that unyielding face, and said timidly:-- "Mr.President, I--I am embarrassed.

Are you ?" His face broke--just a little--a wee glimmer, the momentary flicker of a summer-lightning smile, seven years ahead of time--and I was out and gone as soon as it was.
Ten years passed away before I saw him the second time.