[Vaughan takes his seat at the small table near Benjamin who gives him a note book and he prepares to take notes. Ould reënters conducting Jacquess and Gilmore.]
Ould
Colonel James F. Jacquess and Mr. John R. Gilmore,—Mr. Secretary of State——
[Ould bows and exits, while Benjamin advances with marked cordiality to greet his visitors. He does not shake hands but bows politely.]
Benjamin
I am delighted to see you, gentlemen—pray be seated.
[The two men sit and Gilmore shoots at Vaughan a look of startled recognition which Vaughan fails to return.]
You bring overtures from your Government I trust.
Jacquess
No, sir, we bring no overtures——