Colen Shratt studied his image in the silver-framed mirror. His mustache was neatly clipped, his face clean shaven and well talcumed. His captain's uniform—light blue—was pressed and looked as if it had just been bought. He was fastidious in everything he did. He looked away from the mirror as the valet approached. "Mr. Barnes is ready to see you, sir," the valet said. "Good." Captain Shratt was ushered into a study where Jules Barnes was waiting. "Won't you be seated?" Barnes invited. The capta