With the retainers, or free men, they were on familiar terms, though despotic to the last degree; the slave was less than the dog.

Then, stealing a glance at the man's face, Felix saw that he had no moustache; he had not noticed this before.

No slaves were allowed to wear the moustache.
This man having been at home ill some days had neglected to shave, and there was some mark upon his upper lip.

As he caught his guest's glance, the slave hung his head, and asked his guest in a low and humble voice not to mention this fault.

With his face slightly flushed, Felix finished his meal; he was confused to the last degree.