They really enjoyed the idea that they were being badly used.
They talked over the squire's injustice, Mrs.Sandal's indifference to every one but Harry, and Charlotte's envy, until they had persuaded themselves that they were the only respectable and intelligent members of the family.

Naturally Sophia's nature deteriorated under this isolating process.

She grew secretive and suspicious.

Her love-affairs assumed a proportion which put her in false relations to all the rest of the world.
It was unfortunate that they had come to a crisis during Harry's visit, for of course Harry occupied a large share of every one's interest.

The squire took the opportunity to talk over the affairs of the estate with him, and this was not a kind of conversation they felt inclined to make general.