Though young, his long back was already bowed, and he walked with a forward thrust of his head and a general air of peering benevolence.
As he entered his eyes fell upon the stick in Holmes's hand, and he ran towards it with an exclamation of joy.
"I am so very glad," said he.
"I was not sure whether I had left it here or in the Shipping Office.
I would not lose that stick for the world."
"A presentation, I see," said Holmes.
"Yes, sir."
"From Charing Cross Hospital?"
"From one or two friends there on the occasion of my marriage."
"Dear, dear, that's bad!" said Holmes, shaking his head.