But now, like most New England people of that class, they were not only trying to force their opinions down other and honester people's throats, but had a way of meddling with business that did'nt concern them, and making themselves disagreeable generally.

When Holbrook disappeared in disgrace, there were persons malicious enough to say that the Chapmans had better mend their own morals before they went to patching other people's up.
Mrs.Chapman could dress of an evening in silk, wear kid gloves that came from France, and had plenty of real French lace on her caps.

Few persons in Nyack at that day could do such things and pass for honest people.
"My dear," said Mrs.Chapman, addressing herself to her small, but intellectually great, Mr.Chapman; "my dear." She paused for a moment, as her face assumed an air of seriousness.

"We must turn our backs entirely on Dogtown.

Dogtown won't do to elevate the family on.