He had never for a moment lost his dignity, nor had he even looked ridiculous when calmly rearranging his tie and collar.

I laughed to myself bitterly as I prepared to follow them.

I was determined to lay the whole matter before the Duke at once.
As I reached the terrace I saw a man walking up and down, smoking a pipe.

He stood at the top of the steps and waited for me.

It was Colonel Ray.