There were a number of tables and a few shadowy figures sipping chocolate, wine, or punch.

Rand led the way to a corner table, and, sitting down with his back to the room, beckoned a negro and ordered wine.

"I am tired, voice and mind," he said to Gaudylock, "and I know you well enough to neglect you.

Let us sit still till the papers come." He drank his wine and, with his elbow on the table, rested his forehead upon his hand and closed his eyes.

Adam emptied his glass, then, leaning back in his corner, surveyed the room.