His ancestors were Germans, who crossed the German
Ocean, soon after the Romans withdrew from England.
A large area of Lincolnshire lies below the level of the sea, from which
it is protected by embankments. This fenny district gradually had been
reclaimed, and to-day the deep loam and peat-soils, not unlike the rich
farms of Holland, are celebrated for their high condition of agriculture.
What mortgages the Hon. George Searles held were secured upon
Lincolnshire estates, some of England's best lands.
Hugh Searles, his son, however, had known only London life since he
graduated from Cambridge. His office was in Chancery Lane, and his
surroundings and teachings had been of the speculative kind, hence he was
a fit agent for his firm. Already he had acquired a sunny suburban home
in Kent, and was ambitious to hold a seat in Parliament. As he walked the
steamer's deck, he looked the typical Englishman, five feet ten inches in
height, broad shoulders and full chest; his weight about two hundred
pounds, or "fifteen stones" as Searles phrased it.
His face was round and ruddy, his beard closely cut, and his hair light
and fine, indicating quality. His step was firm, and he seemed always in
deep study.
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