Page:A Colonial Wooing.djvu/42

 His hearers laughed heartily at the poor fellow's fears and began teasing him, when his partner, John Bishop, walked from the shop door. The little group at once turned towards him as he approached, for he was, though a young man, one that commanded the respect of all who knew him. The influence of his presence is not readily explained. There was nothing in his manner in the nature of a demand except for that respectful treatment that all true men ask for themselves; but beyond this was a subtle something, a look, a tone, a motion, what you will, that attracted attention and excited admiration. Of medium height, properly proportioned, with delicate features, but with chin so far prominent and square as to indicate firmness, yet without a trace of obstinacy; in short, a man capable of forming an opinion, and not incapable of relinquishing it if convinced of its defectiveness. In other words, John Bishop was a superior man; one that would be looked to, if not always as a leader, at least as one to whom it is desirable to listen should he see fit to speak.