His mild and retiring manner masked a keen mind and brilliant intellect which often as not saw at a glance what it took other minds far longer to assimilate.

His folksy manner masked a keen legal mind, a fiercely competitive streak and a relentless faith in the efficacy of punishment.

The fat, unkempt Klingon put up a boisterous front, but his jovial manner masked a ruthless manipulator, and his hedonism contained a strong sadistic streak.

But the president's solemnity and resolute manner masked a frenetic diplomatic endgame.

Others say that Mrs. Davidson's manner masks a driven person and that both are shrewd at business.

He knew that often a gruff manner masked a tender sentiment.

His silken manners masked a nature far more repugnant than An Liang-chou's.

Julius asked, hoping his casual manner masked his interest.

And when she left the table briefly, they rushed to say that while she might seem brusque, the manner masked a warm, generous friend.

Here they were greeted by John Thurston, a quiet, balding official of the agency whose mild manner masked a quick mind.