Having come out on the top step of the verandah, he was gesticulating and above the noise of the band (which was playing a quadrille of Offenbach's) was loudly giving orders to some soldiers who were standing somewhat apart.
Venendo fuori sul primo gradino del terrazzo, costui, gridando più forte della musica che sonava una quadriglia di Offenbach, ordinò qualcosa e fece alcuni cenni ai soldati che stavano da un lato.