"I am said to be difficult of acquaintance, unwilling to meet any one half way, and showing a social manner which is easy, not diffident, but formal and unresponsive, tending constantly to hold people off"

This quote by Albert J. Nock recommends that he is not a simple person to learn more about. He hesitates to meet individuals midway and his social manner is official and unresponsive, which develops a barrier between himself and others. He is not shy or timid, but rather he is distant and keeps people at a distance. This could be due to an absence of trust or a desire to secure himself from possible hurt. It might likewise be a sign of his shy nature, as he prefers to keep to himself and not participate in excessive social interaction. Whatever the reason, it is clear that Albert J. Nock is not an easy individual to get to know and he is not most likely to open up to others quickly.