No one had ever ventured to assail her post-matrimonial reputation; she was fiercely virtuous, and would hold no terms with any woman not wholly above reproach.

It had to be admitted that she bore herself with increasing dignity; moreover, that she showed a disposition to use her means and influence for what are called good ends.

Towards the year 1870 the name of Lady Ogram began to be mentioned with respect.
Then her husband died.

Sir Quentin had doubtless fallen short of entire happiness; before middle-age he was a taciturn, washed-out sort of man, with a look of timid anxiety.

Perchance he regretted the visions of his youth, the dreams of glory in marble.