This, he knew, was a part of the environment she had been used to, and he sighed as he thought of the sordid simplicity at Somasco.

There was also Commander Thorne beside her, and the naval officer was one upon whom the stamp of birth and polish was very visible.

This man, he surmised, would understand the thoughts and fancies which were incomprehensible to him, and was acquainted with all the petty trifles which are of vast importance to a woman in the aggregate.
Alton's heart grew heavy as he watched them, noticing the passing smile of comprehension that came so easily and expressed so much, and heard through the hum of voices the soft English accentuation which by contrast with his own speech seemed musical.

He knew his value in the busy world, but he also knew his failings, and the knowledge was bitter to him then.

There were so many little things he did not know, and he saw himself, as he thought the girl must see him--uncouth, which it was impossible for him to be, crude of thought, over-vehement or taciturn in speech, a barbarian.