Take a book, then, or a cigar, and amuse yourself for five minutes while I write a note.

That done, you may command me for as long as you please." I took the first book that came, and finding it to be a history of the horse, amused myself, instead, by observing the aspect of Dalrymple's apartment.
Rooms are eloquent biographies.

They betray at once if the owner be careless or orderly, studious or idle, vulgar or refined.

Flowers on the table, engravings on the walls, indicate refinement and taste; while a well-filled book-case says more in favor of its possessor than the most elaborate letter of recommendation.

Dalrymple's room was a monograph of himself.