"In old days it was birth; but now--now when we are all democratic--it should be _character_ .-- Don't you agree with me ?" "Other people's character ?" asked Diana.
"Oh, we mustn't be unkind, of course.

But when a thing is notorious.
Take this young Brenner.

His father's frauds ruined hundreds of poor people.

How can I receive him here, as if nothing had happened?
It ought not to be forgotten.

He himself ought to _wish_ to live quietly!" Diana gave a hesitating assent, adding: "But I'm sorry for Mr.Brenner!" Mr.Ferrier, as she spoke, leaned slightly across the tea-table as though to listen to what she said.