Several groups of people were sprinkled about the avenue and steps and the wide terrace which ran along the front of the building.

They looked with keen, but perfectly well-mannered surprise at their strange visitors, and seemed to be discussing their appearance; but not a step was taken towards them, nor was there the slightest sign of anything like vulgar curiosity.
"What perfect manners these dear people have!" said Zaidie, as they dismounted at the foot of the staircase.

"I wonder what would happen if a couple of them were to be landed from a motor-car in front of the Capitol at Washington.

I suppose this is their Capitol, and we've been brought here to be put through our facings.

What a pity we can't talk to them! I wonder if they'd believe our story if we could tell it." "I've no doubt they know something of it already," replied Redgrave; "they're evidently people of immense intelligence.