Revelations

Margot laughed at the suddenness of the question. It was one of the
Chieftain's peculiarities to leap upon one like this, taking one
unawares, and surprising thereby involuntary revelations.

"I don't know," she answered truthfully. "Over the hills and far away,
I suppose--studying them in a new aspect. He loved them yesterday in
the rain; to-day he felt sure that it would clear, and he wanted to see
the mists rise. He does so intensely love studying Nature."

"Humph?"

Margot looked at him sharply, her head involuntarily assuming a
defensive tilt.

"What does `Humph' mean, pray?"

"Just exactly and precisely what it says!"

"It doesn't sound at all flattering or nice."

"Probably not. It wasn't intended to be."

"Mr Elgood, how can you! What can you have to say about Ron that isn't
to his credit? I thought you liked him! I thought you admired him!
You must see--you must--that he is different from other boys of his
age. So much more clever, and thoughtful, and appreciative!"

"That's where the pity comes in! It's pitiful to see a lad like that
mooning away his time, when he ought to be busy at football or cricket,
or playing tricks on his betters. What business has he to appreciate
Nature? Tell me that! At twenty--is it, or only nineteen?--he ought to
be too much engrossed in exercising his muscles, and letting off steam
generally, to bother his head about effects of sun and mist. Sun and
mist, indeed! A good wholesome ordinary English lad doesn't care a toss
about sun or mist, except as they help or hinder his enjoyment of
sport!"