*is already waiting at his favorite table when you arrive, poring over the top item in a rather tall stack of files*
*hears your snarky response to the hostess' greeting (they probably heard it down the block) and grits his teeth, reminding himself that being overworked and anxious is no reason to be rude to you, not that you'll likely have any trouble manufacturing legitimate reasons*
*offers you a polite smile as you approach the table* Lord Salgant. Glad you could make it.