The+Rich+Men+Visit+Douglas+(pg.32-33)




 * Douglas**
 * Douglas seems very comfortable when he meets with the rich men who have come to pay their respects; it seems like his position in the Indian civil service that requires him to constantly deal with Indians and their various local problems has helped him get used to interacting with local Indians.
 * In addition to being comfortable, Douglas also seems to genuinely enjoy such encounters, appreciating the “benign amusement” and entertainment he gets from them.
 * At the same time, Douglas is still portrayed to be impeccably professional and skilled at such interactions, as shown through the way he talks to the visiting rich men; his voice is described to be firm throughout the time, and he can speak quite “sternly” when necessary, however while doing so, he can also utilize humor effectively.
 * Douglas has a strong sense of duty and honor; he is also very caring (revealed through the conversation he has with Olivia after the visit)
 * Douglas is quite a cold character (cool rigidity)
 * The Rich Men**
 * Physical descriptions: show that they are wealthy, unlike other poor local Indians described in the novel.
 * Overly Polite - laughing at jokes in “polite unison.” They also show some great respect for Douglas, as shown through the amount of gratitude they express for simple matters like Douglas coming out to greet them.
 * Described as a pack of rogues by Douglas


 * Setting**
 * Baskets of fruits, constant laughing, all add to the festive, jovial atmosphere out on the verandah. Both the rich men and Douglas seem to be enjoying the time together.
 * Formal atmosphere