it was a frank note , and it quickly formed in laurence 's mind a decided portrait of its author : an officer not very much older than himself , confident in his own judgment , secure in his position and influence ; a gentleman of perhaps forty-and-five , writing him a brief note amid the consuming routine of his duties , a serving-officer and not some mere retired admiral , and emily 's father , this last confirmed by the mention of a dragon named excidium , who sent emily his affection .