In Gaskell's Words: Osborne Hamley Osborne, the eldest -- so called after his mother's maiden name -- was full of tastes, and had some talent. His appearance had all the grace and refinement of his mother's. He was sweet-tempered and affectionate, almost as demonstrative as a girl. He did well at school, carrying away many prizes; and was, in a word, the pride and delight of both father and mother; the confidential friend of the latter, in default of any other. Wives and Daughters Chapter IV, Mr. Gibson's Neighbors