Farnum,
when the entire party, the naval lieutenant included, had landed at the
wharf. The two sailors, Ewald and Biffens, had already gone away to
places of their own choosing.
There were three or four automobiles for hire near the wharf. Two of
these Mr. Farnum engaged for his own party. In five minutes more they
stood about in the handsome lobby of the Somerset House while their host
registered for the party.
Jack, Hal and Eph stood at ease, some distance from the men of the party.
Despite their easy attitudes there was yet a certain military erectness
about them which was heightened by the handsome, natty uniforms that
they wore.
At the further end of the hotel lobby was a doorway before which stood
a folding screen. Past that was a clump of potted palms.
Behind the palms stood a man who, once seen, was not likely to be
forgotten. He was not a handsome man. About fifty years of age, he
was unusually stout; and, though his clothing was of expensive texture,
it fitted him badly. On his upper lip was a heavy moustache, now
iron-gray.
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