"Well, Major Sharpe, I must admit it is a great relief to see that I am in good company. While my uniform does not currently show it, I must blame our whereabouts for not keeping the finest colours ever seen in my possession upon arrival."

A few steps forward. He left the rifle to lean against the fountain's edge, the cloth still in one of his gloved hands.

"Alexander Lauder, the Earl of Edrington, Brigadier of the 95th Rifles. Pleased to find a chosen man."