It was to be his introduction into society, and he was determined to acquit himself with credit.
He assiduously practised the two-step in the back room of the post-office when the other clerk was out for lunch; he tried elaborate and ornate bows upon Aunt Melvy, who considered even the mildest "reel chune" a direct communication from the devil.

The moment the post-office closed he hastened to Dr.Fenton's, where Annette was taking him through a course of private lessons.
Dr.Fenton's house was situated immediately upon the street.

Opening the door, one passed into a small square hall where the Confederate flag hung above a life-size portrait of General Lee.

On every side were old muskets and rusty swords, large pictures of decisive battles, and maps of the siege of Vicksburg and the battle of Bull Run.

In the midst of this warlike atmosphere sat the unreconstructed little doctor, wearing his gray uniform and his gray felt hat, which he removed only when he ate and slept.
Here he ostensibly held office hours, but in reality he was doing sentry duty.