Politics and religion he equally ignored, and, so far as might appear, had neither foibles nor fads.

On the other hand, he had three passions--science, horses, and horticulture, and his knowledge was almost encyclopaedic.

He was a great reader, master of many languages, and seemed to have been everywhere and seen all in the world that was worth seeing.

His wealth appeared to be unlimited, but how he made it or where he kept it I had no idea.

All I knew was that whenever money was wanted it was forthcoming, and that he signed a check for ten pounds and ten thousand with equal indifference.