For some, like Harley, West Point was their very first adventure away from home, but despite the potential to grow melancholy, Harley seldom wrote home. At this age he was not one who showed his feelings, particularly to his family. His father’s stoic demeanor had been Harley’s primary adult male influence. Although he may have missed his family, his longing for excitement was much stronger than any desire to return to Ardmore may have been.