Here is my position in the world--I have got an elder brother; he is married, and he has a son to succeed him, in the title and the property.

You understand, so far?
Very well! Years ago I shifted my share of the rank (whatever it may be) on to my brother's shoulders.

He is a thorough good fellow, and he has carried my dignity for me, without once dropping it, ever since.

As for what people may say, they have said it already, from my father and mother downward, in the time when I took to the horses and the farm.

If they're the wise people I take them for, they won't be at the trouble of saying it all over again.