Robert's mind was a mirror.

It always reflected his surroundings.

Quickly adaptable, he usually perceived the best of everything, and now busy and prosperous Boston in its thin, crisp air, delighted him immeasurably.

His feelings were much as they had been when he visited New York.

Here was a great city, that is, great for his country and time, and it was destined to be much greater.
As usual with sailors Captain Whyte and Lieutenant Lanham wished to go to a coffee house, and Robert, nothing loath, accompanied them to one of good quality to which they were directed near the water front.