He even avoided the Boompointers' house, in what he believed
was partly a duty to the memory of his wife. But he saw no inconsistency
in occasionally extending his lonely walks to the vicinity of a foreign
Legation, or in being lifted with a certain expectation at the sight
of its liveries on the Avenue. There was a craving for sympathy in his
heart, which Miss Faulkner's letter had awakened.
Meantime, he had reported himself for duty at the War Department--with
little hope, however, in that formality. But he was surprised the next
day when the chief of the bureau informed him that his claim was before
the President.
"I was not aware that I had presented any claim," he said, a little
haughtily.
The bureau chief looked up with some surprise. This quiet, patient,
reserved man had puzzled him once or twice before.
"Perhaps I should say 'case,' General," he said, drily. "But the
personal interest of the highest executive in the land strikes me as
being desirable in anything."
"I only mean that I have obeyed the orders of the department in
reporting myself here, as I have done," said Brant, with less feeling,
but none the less firmness; "and I should imagine it was not the duty
of a soldier to question them.
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