I wondered if people said things about him, and if they did, what they were.

I never had heard.

Twisting in my seat, one by one I studied the faces on the men's side, and then the women.

It was a mighty good-looking crowd.
Some had finer clothes than others--that is always the way--but as a rule every one was clean, neat, and good to see.

From some you scarcely could turn away.