He was addicted to taking the humorous view of things, and he had discovered that even in the narrowest circles such a disposition may find frequent opportunities.

Such opportunities had formed for some time--that is, since his return from China, a year and a half before--the most active element in this gentleman's life, which had just now a rather indolent air.

He was perfectly willing to get married.

He was very fond of books, and he had a handsome library; that is, his books were much more numerous than Mr.Wentworth's.

He was also very fond of pictures; but it must be confessed, in the fierce light of contemporary criticism, that his walls were adorned with several rather abortive masterpieces.