Jacob had long since claimed for himself the right to leave the room when politics and religion came under discussion.

As an only son, he had some privileges accorded him, and this was one he used without stint.
Honest Jacob had taken an immediate and great liking for Cuthbert Trevlyn from the first appearance of that youth at his uncle's house.

Though himself rough and uncouth of aspect, clumsy of gait and slow of speech, he was quick to see and admire beauty and wit in others.

He had picked out Cherry from amongst her sisters for those qualities of brightness and vivacity in which he felt himself so deficient, and it seemed as though he took to Cuthbert for very much the same reason.
Cuthbert was ready enough to accept the advances of this good-natured youth.

He was a stranger in this great city, whilst Jacob knew it well.