His trousers were of another pattern from the coat, not too accurate of fit, and could have been pressed to advantage, while the once superb yellow shoes were tarnished and sadly worn.

The man was richly and variously scented.

There were the basic and permanent aromas of printer's ink and pipe tobacco; above these like a mist were the rare unguents lately applied by Don Paley, the barber, and a spicy odour of strong drink.

As was not unusual on a Saturday night, Dave would have passed some relaxing moments at the liquor saloon of Herman Vielhaber.
"I hope I see you well, duchess!" This was for Mrs.Penniman, and caused her to bridle as she fancied a saluted duchess might.

It was the humour of Dave to suppose this lady a peeress of the old regime, one who had led far too gay a life and, come now to a dishonoured old age, was yet cynical and unrepentant.