The Man who Died

I was just fitting my key into the door when I noticed a man at my elbow. I had not seen him approach, and the sudden appearance made me start. He was a slim man, with a short brown beard and small, gimlety blue eyes. I recognised him as the occupant of a flat on the top floor, with whom I had passed the time of day on the stairs.

'Can I speak to you?' he said. 'May I come in for a minute?' He was steadying his voice with an effort, and his hand was pawing my arm.

John Buchan: The Thirty-nine Steps (1915)

Greenmantle
The Half-Hearted
Huntingtower
The Moon Endureth: Tales and Fancies
Mr. Standfast
The Path of the King

Prester John

Salute to Adventurers
The Thirty-Nine Steps