She had transferred to her daughter-in-law her previously occupied seat at the head of the table.

This had been done with a carefully prepared scene of intense though correct disagreeableness, in which she had managed to convey all the rancour of her dethroned spirit and her disapproval and disdain of international alliances.
"It is of course proper that you should sit at the head of your husband's table," she had said, among other agreeable things.

"A woman having devoted her life to her son must relinquish her position to the person he chooses to marry.

If you should have a son you will give up your position to his wife.

Since Nigel has married you, he has, of course, a right to expect that you will at least make an effort to learn something of what is required of women of your position." "Sit down, Rosalie," said Nigel.