In a club where a man's standing was reckoned by what he was and what he produced, he owed such consideration as he received to a certain air of reserved strength, the more noteworthy amongst a little coterie of men, who amongst themselves were accustomed to speak their minds freely, and at all times.

If he was never brilliant, he had never been heard to say a foolish thing or make a pointless remark.

He moved on his way through life, and held his place there more by reason of certain negative qualities which, amongst a community of optimists, were universally ascribed to him, than through any more personal or likable gifts.

He had a dark, strong face, but a slim, weakly body.

He was never unduly silent, but he was a better listener than talker.