“I assure you I am not deceiving you; you shall not have to answer for me. As to my being dressed like this, and carrying a bundle, there’s nothing surprising in that⁠—the fact is, my circumstances are not particularly rosy at this moment.”

“H’m!⁠—no, I’m not afraid of that, you see; I have to announce you, that’s all. The secretary will be out directly⁠—that is, unless you⁠—yes, that’s the rub⁠—unless you⁠—come, you must allow me to ask you⁠—you’ve not come to beg, have you?”

“Oh dear no, you can be perfectly easy on that score. I have quite another matter on hand.”

“You must excuse my asking, you know. Your appearance led me to think⁠—but just wait for the secretary; the general is busy now, but the secretary is sure to come out.”

“Oh⁠—well, look here, if I have some time to wait, would you mind telling me, is there any place about where I could have a smoke? I have my pipe and tobacco with me.”