Standing back in the shadow of the wall were perhaps a dozen men, pale and gloomy, a sullen fire smouldering in their eyes, their teeth tightly clinched.

They were army officers retired on half pay.

Three men, attired in black, were conversing in low tones near the door.

In a corner stood several country-women with their aprons over their faces.

They were weeping bitterly, and their sobs alone broke the silence.