One forgot his pimply face and portly figure in the geniality that was not assumed, and the ease of his manners.

He spoke to Robert more than once, asked him many questions about Albany and New York, and referred incidentally, too, to the Iroquois, but it was all light, as if he were asking them because of interest in his guest, or merely to make conversation.
The hues of everything gradually grew brighter and more brilliant to Robert.

The music from the next room steeped his senses, and he began to feel the intoxication of which Willet had warned him.

Many of the guests were of the noblest families of France, young officers who had come to Quebec, where it was reported promotion was rapid and sure, or where younger sons, with the aid of such powerful men as Bigot and Cadet, could make fortunes out of the customs or in the furnishing of supplies to the government.

Robert found himself talking much, his gift of speech responding readily to the call.