His studies are very desultory and eccentric, but he has amassed a lot of out-of-the way knowledge which would astonish his professors." "Did you never ask him what he was going in for ?" I asked.
"No; he is not a man that it is easy to draw out, though he can be communicative enough when the fancy seizes him." "I should like to meet him," I said.

"If I am to lodge with anyone, I should prefer a man of studious and quiet habits.

I am not strong enough yet to stand much noise or excitement.

I had enough of both in Afghanistan to last me for the remainder of my natural existence.

How could I meet this friend of yours ?" "He is sure to be at the laboratory," returned my companion.