He is busy with a book just now in the verandah.

He is a student of natural history in general, but botany and geology are his favourite sciences, and he has made considerable progress in both.

He accompanies Basil on all hunting expeditions; but, in the midst of the most exciting chase, Lucien would leap down from his horse if a rare plant or flower, or an odd-looking rock, was to fall under his eye.

Lucien talks but little--not half so much as most boys--but although habitually silent he possesses a rare good sense; and when he offers his advice upon any question, it is usually received with respect by the others.

Such is the secret influence of intellect and education.
Next and last, we have Francois, a quick-witted, curly-haired urchin-- merry to madness--cheerful at all times--changeable in his tastes and likings--versatile in talents--in short, more of a Frenchman than any of them.