He had been known once or twice to yawn, and he had somewhat the appearance of a man engaged in an earnest but at times not altogether successful attempt to kill time.

Perhaps for that reason he made acquaintances with a little more than his customary freedom.

There was a young Englishman, for instance, whose name, it appeared, was Gaynsforth, with whom, after a drink or two at the bar, he speedily became on almost intimate terms.
Mr.Gaynsforth was a young man, apparently of good breeding and some means.

He was well dressed, of cheerful disposition, knew something about the woollen trade, and appeared to take a distinct liking to his new friend.

The two men, after having talked business together for some time, arranged to dine together and have what they called a gay evening.
They retired to their various apartments to change, Mr.Gaynsforth perfectly well satisfied with his progress, Mr.James B.Coulson with a broad grin upon his face.
After a very excellent dinner, for which Mr.Gaynsforth insisted upon paying, they went to the Folies Bergeres, where the Englishman developed a thirst which, considering the coolness of the evening, was nothing short of amazing.