Nick Cambert did not raise his head.

Patches came on toward them alone.
As they saw that it was the man's purpose to speak to them, Phil and Kitty rose and stood waiting, Kitty with her hand still on her companion's arm.

And now, as they were given a closer and less obstructed view of the man who had been their friend, Kitty and Phil again exchanged wondering glances.

This was not the Honorable Patches whom they had known so intimately.

The man's clothing was soiled with dirt, and old from rough usage, with here and there a ragged tear.