Page:Bierce - Collected Works - Volume 02.djvu/121

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
OF AMBROSE BIERCE
121

parently tattooed in irregular sinuous lines from the eyes downward. The lips, too, were white, like those of a stage negro. There was blood upon his forehead.

The staff officer drew back a pace, the orderly two paces.

"What are you doing here, my man?" said the colonel, unmoved.

"This house belongs to me, sir," was the reply, civilly delivered.

"To you? Ah, I see! And these?"

" My wife and child. I am Captain Coulter.