He reached what might have been called the lot's civic centre and cast a patronizing eye along the ends of the big stages and the long, low dressing--room building across from them.

Before the open door of the warehouse he paused to watch a truck being loaded with handsome furniture--a drawing room was evidently to be set on one of the stages.
Rare rugs and beautiful chairs and tables were carefully brought out.
He had rather a superintending air as he watched this process.

He might have been taken for the owner of these costly things, watching to see that no harm befell them.

He strolled on when the truck had received its load.

Such people as he had met were only artisans, carpenters, electricians, property-men.