gifted with an extraordinary retentive memory

a bunch of malarkey(a lot of eyewash; a pack of lies)

give meticulous care to somebody

from ancient to modern times

allow the heart to rule the head(to be influenced by one's emotions and not by one's reason; act impetuously)

as thin as sticks

be up to one's old tricks(play the same old trick)

without an equal in the world

pass one's own door without entering--to act beyond the call of duty

like patching up a sable coat with a dog's tail

each trying to outwit the other

talk in a roundabout way

furtive

lay one's head on one's pillows and just drop off to sleep(be complacent and relax)

The cups go gaily round.

high and upright character

have a limited view of sth.

having no sense of dishonor and disgrace

constantly remembering in one's heart

adhere stubbornly to one's ownideas