They have no religion, a matter of course; they talk incessantly of politics, knowing nothing better; but they are very far above the gross multitude.

I believe such men as these have a great part to play in social development--that, in fact, _they_ may become the great social reformers, working on those above them--the froth of society--no less than on those below.' He had laid down his half-finished cigar, and, having begun in a scrupulously moderate tone, insensibly warmed to the idealist fervour.
His face became more mobile, his eyes gave forth all their light, his voice was musically modulated as he proceeded in his demonstration.

He addressed himself to Annabel, perhaps unconscious of doing so exclusively.
Mr.Newthorpe muttered something of assent.

Paula was listening intently, but as one who hears of strange, far-off things, very difficult of realisation.
'Now suppose one took a handful of such typical men,' Egremont went on, 'and tried to inspire them with a moral ideal.

At present they have nothing of the kind, but they own the instincts of decency, and that is much.