But he loved her, after the slight fashion with which alone he could bestow love, because, notwithstanding that good birth, she also belonged to him--she was bone of his bone, flesh of his flesh.

The ties of blood were strong with him, and because of these ties he loved her after his fashion.
The two came home presently and partook of supper together.

Nina bought some figs and peaches, and they had quite a dainty meal.

Nina herself prepared the board, and she put the decanter with the amber wine close to the old man.

He ate and drank.