How wide and how impassable was the gulf by which we were separated! This fair inheritance had fallen to one who, perhaps, would only abuse it to the purposes of luxury, while I, with intentions worthy of the friend of mankind, was doomed to wield the flail and the mattock.
I had been entirely unaccustomed to this strain of reflection.

My books had taught me the dignity and safety of the middle path, and my darling writer abounded with encomiums on rural life.

At a distance from luxury and pomp, I viewed them, perhaps, in a just light.

A nearer scrutiny confirmed my early prepossessions; but, at the distance at which I now stood, the lofty edifices, the splendid furniture, and the copious accommodations of the rich excited my admiration and my envy.
I relinquished my station, and proceeded, in a heartless mood, along the fence.

I now came to the mansion itself.