the summer sun at noon
But Algar , below the middle height , though well set , was slight in comparison with Harold . His strength was that which men often take rather from the nerve than the muscle ; a strength that belongs to quick tempers and restless energies . His light blue eye , singularly vivid and glittering ; his quivering lip , the veins swelling at each emotion on the fair white temples ; the long yellow hair , bright as gold , and resisting , in its easy curls , all attempts to curb it into the smooth flow most in fashion ; the nervous movements of the gesture ; the somewhat sharp and hasty tones of the voice ; all opposed , as much as if the two men were of different races , the steady , deep eye of Harold , his composed mien , sweet and majestic , his decorous locks parted on the king-like front , with their large single curl where they touched the shoulder . Intelligence and will were apparent in both the men ; but the intelligence of one was acute and rapid , that of the other profound and steadfast ; the will of one broke in flashes of lightning , that of the other was calm as the summer sun at noon . `` Thou art welcome , Harold , '' said the King , with less than his usual listlessness , and with a look of relief as the Earl approached him . `` Our good Algar comes to us with a suit well worthy consideration , though pressed somewhat hotly , and evincing too great a desire for goods worldly ; contrasting in this his most laudable father our well - beloved Leofric , who spends his substance in endowing monasteries and dispensing alms ; wherefore he shall receive a hundred-fold in the treasure-house above . '' `` A good interest , doubtless , my lord the King , '' said Algar ; quickly , `` but one that is not paid to his heirs ; and the more need , if my father -LRB- whom I blame not for doing as he lists with his own -RRB- gives all he hath to the monks -- the more need , I say , to take care that his son shall be enabled to follow his example .