played on the lips seemed a foreboding of boyish laughter.

We say foreboding because in this case it is not mistaken diction.
Foreboding suggests coming evil; the laughter of boys is
wholehearted. It was merely that things were not exactly as they
should be; it was not natural that age should be so youthful. The
fates were playing, and in this case for once in the world's
history their play was crosswise.

It is a remarkable case from the beginning and we are starting
from facts. The man crossed to the window of the Key Route ferry
and purchased a ticket for Berkeley, after which, with the throng,
he passed the turnstile and on to the boat that was waiting. He
took the lower deck, not from choice, apparently, but more because
the majority of his fellow passengers, being men, were bound in
this direction. The same chance brought him to the cigar-stand.
The men about him purchased cigars and cigarettes, and as is the
habit of all smokers, strolled off with delighted relish. The man
watched them. Had anyone noticed his eyes he would have noted a
peculiar colour and a light of surprise. With the prim step that
made him so distinctive he advanced to the news-stand.

"Pardon me; but I would like to purchase one of those." Though he
spoke perfect English it was in a strange manner, after the
fashion of one who has found something that he has just learned
how to use. At the same time he made a suggestion with his tapered
fingers indicating the tobacco in the case. The clerk looked up.

"A cigar, sir? Yes, sir. What will it be?"