He knew them only in their frames.

As for the middle-aged man at the book-keeper's desk, he disturbed him in a way that he would not admit to himself.

He spoke to him rather curtly.

If he could avoid speaking to him he did so.

He had a way of sending directions to the book-keeper by the young man.
The book-keeper, if he also surmised Carroll's private life, gave no sign, although he had ample time.