He always believed himself the discoverer of America, when, in fact, he had done nothing but follow in the track of other navigators.
The world-Jean had scarcely encountered it.

He had allowed himself to be dragged by Paul, a dozen times, perhaps, to soirees or balls at the great houses of the neighborhood.

He had invariably returned thoroughly bored, and had concluded that these pleasures were not made for him.

His tastes were simple, serious.

He loved solitude, work, long walks, open space, horses, and books.