The sharp tap of a pipe on the mantelpiece cancelled the words.

And perhaps Jacob only said "hum," or said nothing at all.

True, the words were inaudible.

It was the intimacy, a sort of spiritual suppleness, when mind prints upon mind indelibly.
"Well, you seem to have studied the subject," said Jacob, rising and standing over Simeon's chair.

He balanced himself; he swayed a little.
He appeared extraordinarily happy, as if his pleasure would brim and spill down the sides if Simeon spoke.
Simeon said nothing.