They had not vulgarized him; their troubles and their pleasures alike were his.

His heart and soul, his life and strength were given up to them.

He did not feel himself any the less a gentleman because those whom he served were, many of them, lowly born.

He started, therefore, both inwardly and outwardly at Mrs.
Bertram's plain speech, and instantly, for he was a man of very nice penetration, saw that the arrival of this lady, this brilliant sun of society, in the little world of Northbury, would not add to the smoothness of his lot.
Before he could get in a word, however, Mrs.Bertram quickly continued: "And Catherine is determined to make a friend of Beatrice Meadowsweet." "She is quite right, Mrs.Bertram.I introduced Miss Catherine to Beatrice yesterday.

They will make delightful companions; they are about the same age--I can vouch for the life and spirit possessed by my friend Bee, and if I mistake not Miss Catherine will be her worthy companion." Mrs.Bertram laughed.
"I wish I could tell you what an imp of mischief Kate is," she said.
"She is the most daring creature that ever drew the breath of life.