Then and there the long series of annual re-unions terminated for ever.

The occasion had a mournful interest to many who had attended those meetings from year to year.

It seemed like the voluntary and unexpected abdication of an Alexander, still able to add to his conquests and trophies.

All present felt this; and several tried to express it at the old table now spread for the last time for such guests.

But his inherent and invincible modesty waived aside or intercepted the compliments that came from so many lips.