beatty was described as having a shrewd business sense, particularly when it came to horses and horse racing. he was also said to be witty and at times, mischievous. despite his failing eyesight, beatty managed to obtain a commission in his father's old unit. he served with the company in the middle east until his secret was discovered and he was honourably discharged from service. he was a tall, dark and handsome man who had once been named one of britain's most eligible bachelors. at the time of his death mereworth castle in kent was his main residence. aly khan and his wife, rita hayworth, were beatty's guests at the castle for the running of the epsom derby in june 1949.