Answer:
The author uses words such as foundations and trowellings to suggest Oliver's expertise.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpt shows that Oliver had little money but had fantasies which he craved to satisfy. One of his fantasies was his desire to own a house. He was skilled in the art of building and this is reflected in how he used his great hands to lay the foundations.
Trowels are small flat metal blades with short handles used in scooping mixtures while painting. Oliver made smooth trowellings while building, an indication that he was also a skilled worker. The result of his expertise can be seen in the outcome of the building which was quite good.