It was his wont to prepare his task much where he pleased, coming to the room for recitation or for colloquy upon this or that aspect of knowledge and the attainment thereof.

The irregularity mattered the less as the eldest Jardine combined with a passion for personal liberty and out of doors a passion for knowledge.

Moreover, he liked and trusted Strickland.

He would go far, but not far enough to strain the tutor's patience.

His father and mother and all about Glenfernie knew his way and in a measure acquiesced.