It was opened by a tall figure--the
President himself. He reached out a long arm to Brant, who stood
hesitatingly on the threshold, grasped his hand, and led him into the
room. It had a single, large, elaborately draped window and a handsome
medallioned carpet, which contrasted with the otherwise almost appalling
simplicity of the furniture. A single plain angular desk, with a
blotting pad and a few sheets of large foolscap upon it, a waste-paper
basket and four plain armchairs, completed the interior with a contrast
as simple and homely as its long-limbed, black-coated occupant.
Releasing the hand of the general to shut a door which opened into
another apartment, the President shoved an armchair towards him and sank
somewhat wearily into another before the desk. But only for a moment;
the long shambling limbs did not seem to adjust themselves easily to
the chair; the high narrow shoulders drooped to find a more comfortable
lounging attitude, shifted from side to side, and the long legs moved
dispersedly. Yet the face that was turned towards Brant was humorous and
tranquil.
"I was told I should have to send for you if I wished to see you," he
said smilingly.
Already mollified, and perhaps again falling under the previous
influence of this singular man, Brant began somewhat hesitatingly to
explain.
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