I made some inquiries myself about the matter.

He seems to be a very respectable, learned, and talented sort of man." "I'm glad you've got so far as to recognize the talent." "Man, you can't but recognize it! After I heard your view I made it my business to see him.

I had a chat with him on eclipses.

How the talk got that way I canna think; but he had out a reflector lantern and a globe, and made it all clear in a minute.

He lent me a book; but I don't mind saying that it was a bit above my head, though I had a good Aberdeen upbringing.