It pleased him--pleased his unconscious egoism.

The early part of his life had been spent among Indian women, half-breeds, and a few dull French or English folk, whose chief charm was their interest in that wild, free life, now so distant.
He had met Delia many times since his coming; and there was that in her manner--a fine high-bred quality, a sweet speaking reserve--which interested him.

He saw her as the best product of this convention.
She was no mere sentimental girl, for she had known at least six seasons, and had refused at least six lovers.

She had a proud mind, not wide, suited to her position.

Most men had flattered her, had yielded to her; this man, either with art or instinctively, mastered her, secured her interest by his personality.