behind him , mathison , who was patiently holding up an impeccably tailored black evening coat for jordan to put his arms into , was so startled to be addressed in this comradely fashion by his normally taciturn employer , that the poor valet had to clear his throat twice before answering in a stammering , blustering tone , `` i daresay her grace , being of refined tastes herself , can only delight in your appearance this evening ! ''