For instance, the sea-wall here had to be built if the Abbey was to be saved, and half a mile of sea-walling costs something.

Also very extensive repairs to the house were necessary, and I was forced to take three farms in hand when I retired from the army fifteen years ago.

This has involved a net loss of about ten thousand pounds, while all the time the interest had to be paid and the place kept up in a humble fashion." "I thought that my uncle Porson took over the mortgage after my mother's death," interrupted Morris.
"That is so," answered his father, wincing a little; "but a creditor remains a creditor, even if he happens to be a relative by marriage.

I have nothing to say against your uncle John, who is an excellent person in his way, and well-meaning.

Of course, he has been justified, perfectly justified, in using his business abilities--or perhaps I should say instincts, for they are hereditary--to his own advantage.
In fact, however, directly or indirectly, he has done well out of this property and his connection with our family--exceedingly well, both financially and socially.