His doings in the past seemed just the outcome of boyish spirits.

He had been nothing but a great boy in those days; now he felt that his manhood was coming upon him by leaps and bounds.
At Lord Claud's lodging a repast was awaiting them which was in itself a further revelation to Tom.

He was mightily hungry, too, and fell upon the good cheer with an appetite that entertained his host.

The food he found most excellent, though seasoned something too strongly for his palate.

But the wines were less to his taste, and he presently made bold to ask for a tankard of homely ale, which was brought to him from the servants' quarters; Lord Claud leaning back with his glass in his hand, and smiling to see the relish with which Tom enjoyed the simple beverage.
"Ah, the time was when I could quaff a tankard of ale with any man, and it may well be that I will do the same again in the future.