Yes, they do know they can hold objects for ... awhile. But it can become something familiar. For comfort.

[Of course, some children then become overly clingy with their toys, but ... that can be averted. He's pretty sure, at least. It's been a long time since he's been around children with that particular habit.]

She is very fortunate. I can just imagine how many girls have sought after your attentions, and your eyes are only for her.

[...Perhaps not the best topic while there's others in the room, but Hendrik's thoughts have wandered to the maids who had fawned over Celestine.]