He stood in the background, and his dark face and gaunt figure did not lack elements of dignity.

There was something distinguished in the personality of Dalaber, of which those who knew him were keenly conscious.
The statesman, who had all his life been wont to take the measure of men with great acumen and discernment, gave more than one quick, keen glance in the direction of Dalaber, as he received Arthur's credentials and cast his eye over them.
"You are welcome, Master Cole.

I have heard of you before, and everything I have heard redounds to your credit.

You are highly spoken of in Oxford, and your career there has not been without distinction.

I am keenly interested in all that happens there, and in the welfare of each individual clerk and student.