Lee stepped briskly into the room and extended his hand.
"It's you, Ruffin. My apologies. I was called out to see a neighbor. I should have been here to receive you."
"No apologies, Colonel, Mrs. Lee has been most gracious."
The mistress of the house smiled.
"Make yourself at home, Mr. Ruffin. I shall hope to see you at dinner."
Ruffin stood respectfully until Mrs. Lee had disappeared.
"Pray be seated," Lee invited.
Ruffin seated himself on the couch and watched his host keenly.
Lee took a cigar from the mantel and offered it.
"A cigar, Ruffin?"