'Excelsior!' there was no longer an excelsior left for talent and perseverance in this effete country.

She and hers would soon find room for their energies in a younger land; and as she went she could not but pity those whom she left behind.

Her reasoning was hardly logical, but, perhaps, it was not unfortunate.
'For myself,' said Norman, not quite following all this--'I always liked the Civil Service, and now I leave it with a sort of regret.

I am quite glad that Charley has my old desk; it will keep up a sort of tie between me and the place.' 'What does Linda say about it, mamma ?' 'Linda and I are both of Harry's way of thinking,' said Mrs.
Woodward, 'because Normansgrove is such a distance.' 'Distance!' repeated Gertrude, with something of sorrow, but more of scorn in her tone.

'Distance, mamma! why you can get to her between breakfast and dinner.