However unworthy the object of his frenzy--and perhaps one were as worthy as another--the pursuit had borne him through an atmosphere of fire, tempering him for life, marking him for ever from plodders of the dusty highway.

A reckless passion is a patent of nobility.

Whatever existence had in store for him henceforth, Hubert could feel that he had lived.
An hour's communing with memory was brought to an end by the ringing of the luncheon-bell.

Since his illness Hubert had taken meals with his mother in her own sitting-room.

Thither he now repaired.
Mrs.Eldon had grown older in appearance since that evening of her son's return.