A more appreciative observer would have noticed and enjoyed the subtler points.

Stephen's glare of disgust at his uncle when the latter tucked his napkin in the opening of his waistcoat; Caroline's embarrassment when the captain complimented the soup, declaring that it was almost as good as one of Abbie's chowders; the visitor's obvious uneasiness at being waited upon attentively, and the like.

These Edwards missed, but he could not help appreciating Captain Elisha's conversation.
Caroline said little during dinner.

Her brother glowered at his plate and was silent.

But the captain talked and talked.
"Maybe you think I didn't have a time findin' your new lodgin's," he said.