Mr. Rochester, as he sat in his damask-covered chair, looked different to what I had seen him look before – not quite so stern; much less gloomy. There was a smile on his lips, and his eyes sparkled, whether with wine or not, I am not sure, but I think it very probable. He was…more expanded and genial, and also more self-indulgent, than the frigid and rigid temper of the morning; still, he looked preciously grim, cushioning his massive head against the swelling back of his chair, and receiving the light of the fire on his granite-hewn features, and in his great, dark eyes.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 14. Jane is looking at Mr. Rochester more favorably than she did during her earlier encounters, when she described him as “grim,” “ireful” and “stern.” Now he is smiling, his eyes are sparkling and he is more genial. He is no longer as stern or gloomy, she says, putting his good humor down to the effects of the dinner wine.