The footsteps of some one person detached itself from the other sounds, and drew near, firm, evenly measured steps.

The curtain lifted slowly.

A tall, white-haired man, clad in garments of cream-coloured silk, appeared, regarding Graham from under his raised arm.
For a moment the white form remained holding the curtain, then dropped it and stood before it.

Graham's first impression was of a very broad forehead, very pale blue eyes deep sunken under white brows, an aquiline nose, and a heavily-lined resolute mouth.

The folds of flesh over the eyes, the drooping of the corners of the mouth contradicted the upright bearing, and said the man was old.