Some of the gentry from the neighbouring parishes had called, chiefly, she was aware, because of Mr.
Ferrol.

She was building the superstructure of her social ambitions on that foundation for the present.

She told Louis sometimes, with tears of joy in her eyes, that a special Providence had sent Mr.Ferrol to them, and she did not know how to be grateful enough.

He suggested a gift to the church in token of gratitude, but her thanksgiving did not take that form.
Nic was entirely French at heart, and ignored his mother's nationality.
He resented the English blood in his veins, and atoned for it by increased loyalty to his French origin.

This was probably not so much a principle as a fancy.