Opening paragraphs.................

     The dark-haired man stared at the wall in front of him.  His chair, like the rest of the furniture, was pleasing to the eye but not made for comfort.  The style was Early American, the theme Spartan, as if those about to be granted an audience with the occupant of the inner office should reflect on their awesome opportunity in stern surroundings.

-Robert Ludlum,  The Chancellor Manuscript