In complexion he was fair, and healthy to look at, generally sunburned in the summer, for he had a habit of reading out of doors; his laugh was very pleasant, though it was rarely heard; his eyes were honest but generally thoughtful; his frame was sturdy and already inclined rather to strength than to graceful proportion; his head matched his body well, being broad and well-shaped with plenty of prominence over the brows and plenty of fulness above the temples.

He had a way of standing as though it would not be easy to move him, and a way of expressing his opinion which seemed to challenge contradiction.

But he was not a combative boy.

If any one argued with him, it soon appeared that he was not really argumentative, but merely enthusiastic.

It was not necessary to agree with him, and there was small use in contradicting him.