This home had been the dream of Stephen's manhood, and Ducie also had urged him to its speedy realization; for she knew that it was the first step towards securing for himself that recognition among the county gentry which his wealth and his old family entitled him to.

Not that there was any intention of abandoning Up-Hill.

Both would have thought such a movement a voluntary insult to the family wraiths,--one sure to bring upon them disaster of every kind.

Up-Hill was to be Ducie's residence as long as she lived; it was to be always the home of the family in the hot months, and thus retain its right as an integral part and portion of the Latriggs' hearth.
"I have seen the plan of Latrigg Hall," said Julius one day to Sophia.
"An absurdly fine building for a man of Stephen's birth.

What will he do with it?
It will require as large an income as Seat-Sandal to support it." "Stephen is rich.