The room was large and old-fashioned, with heavy beams across the low ceiling.

There was a tall clock, and a big, black oak chest; curled ram's horns and brass candlesticks twinkled on the mantel; an old copper kettle threw back red reflections near the fire.

His companions occupied opposite sides of a large sheepskin rug, and he felt that both had charm, though they were different.

The contrast added something to the charm.
Miss Jardine's skin was a pure white; her hair and eyes were nearly black, and she had a sparkling, and perhaps rather daring, humor.
Helen's colors were rose and cream, her hair changed from warm brown to gold as it caught the light, and her eyes were calm and gray.

She was younger than the other and he thought her smile delightful, but, as a rule, she was marked by a certain gravity.