We sat then in the verandah smoking for about a quarter of an hour.
I remember every word that was spoken, and every trivial circumstance that happened during that quarter of an hour; they are burnt into my memory as if by fire.

The Doctor was raving about English poetry, as usual, saying, however, that the modern English poets, good as they were, had lost the power of melody a good deal.

This the Major denied, quoting:-- "By torch and trumpet fast array'd." "Fifty such lines, sir, are not worth one of Milton's," said the Doctor.
"'The trumpet spake not to the armed throng.' "There's melody for you; there's a blare and a clang; there's a----" I heard no more.

Mrs.Buckley's French clock, in the house behind, chimed three quarters past one, and I heard a sound of two persons coming quickly through the house.
Can you tell the step of him who brings evil tidings?
I think I can.

At all events, I felt my heart grow cold when I heard those footsteps.