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Asked Quote by John Flanagan

“You've known him how long?" Malcolm asked. "Since he was a small boy. I firs noticed him when he slipped into Master Chubb's kitchen to steal some pies." "So, what did you have to say to Will when you caught him stealing these pies? "Oh, I didn't let on I was there. We rangers can be very…” quote by John Flanagan
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““You've known him how long?" Malcolm asked. "Since he was a small boy. I firs noticed him when he slipped into Master Chubb's kitchen to steal some pies." "So, what did you have to say to Will when you caught him stealing these pies? "Oh, I didn't let on I was there. We rangers can be very unobtrusive when we choose. I remained out of sight and watched him. I thought he might have potential to be a ranger." Halt said. Horace joined in "Why?" Halt answered carefully. "Because he was excellent at moving from cover to cover. Chubb entered 3 times and never noticed him. So i thought that if he could acheive that with no training, he would make a good ranger." "No" Horace spoke. "Thats not what I meant. Why were you hiding in the kitchen in the first place?" "I told you. I was watching Will to see if he had the potential to be a ranger." "Thats not what you said. You said that was the first time you noticed Will." "Does it matter?" "Not really. Were you hiding from chub yourself and Will just turned up by coincidence?" "And why would I be hiding from master Chubb in his own kitchen?" "Well, there were freshly made pies on the windowsill, and you like pies, don't you?" "Are you acusing me of trying to steal those pies?!?!" "No, of course not. I just thought i'd give you the opportunity to confess." After a pause, Halt continued. "You know, Horace, you used to be a most agreeable young man. Whatever happened to you?" "I've spent to much time around you, I suppose." And Halt had to admit that was probably true.””

John Flanagan

About This Quote

Source Book: The Royal Ranger, by John Flanagan, 2005

A character observes a boy's stealth and potential, interpreting natural skill as a sign of future suitability for a role.

In simple terms: Seeing natural talent as a clue to future ability.

Key Takeaway

Watch for innate abilities before training.

Themes

observation potential stealth

Mood

curious reflective

Type

dialogue character study

When to use this quote

  • team selection
  • mentor evaluation
  • training decisions

Key Concepts

character assessment talent spotting

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance innate talent with development?
  • When should we intervene in someone's growth?
A Different Perspective

Natural skill may not guarantee success without guidance.

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