Soft words and tender looks, that Ellen loved;
For he who taught her brothers found in her
A constant, ready, eager auditor; 130
This he perceived, nor could his joy disguise:
It tuned his voice, it sparkled in his eyes.
Not very young, nor very handsome he,
But very fit an Abelard to be;
His manner and his meekness hush’d alarm
In all but Ellen—Ellen felt the charm.
Hers was fond “filial love”; she found delight