There was something almost regal about his air of detachment, his solitude amidst such a gay scene.
"There is one of the strangest and most consistent figures in history," Karschoff, who was in a talkative frame of mind, went on reflectively.
"I honestly believe that Prince Shan considers himself to be of celestial descent, to carry in his person the honour of countless generations of Manchus.

He has no intimates.

Even Immelan usually has to seek an audience.

What his pleasures may be, who knows ?--because everything that happens with him happens behind closed walls.

To-night, the door of his box is guarded as though he were more than royalty.