A wary gleam shone in his eyes under their level brows.

It was one of his principles when dealing with an uncertain situation never to betray surprise.

"And what may this valuable piece of information be ?" he inquired, with a smile.
Rufus shipped his oars steadily, gravely, with purpose.

"I saw you cross the quicksand last night," he said.
"Indeed!" Knight's voice was of the most casual quality.

He was feeling for his cigarette-case.
Rufus continued heavily, fatefully, gathering force with every word, as a loosened rock beginning to roll down a mountain side.