I hadn't time to examine it, but I could see some framed group photographs above the mantelpiece, and I could have sworn they were English public school or college.

I had only one glance, for I managed to pull myself together and go after the maid.
But I was too late.

She had already entered the dining-room and given my name to her master, and I had missed the chance of seeing how the three took it.
When I walked into the room the old man at the head of the table had risen and turned round to meet me.

He was in evening dress--a short coat and black tie, as was the other, whom I called in my own mind the plump one.

The third, the dark fellow, wore a blue serge suit and a soft white collar, and the colours of some club or school.
The old man's manner was perfect.