He felt that he could not storm and talk in ambiguous language of what a "gentleman" would or would not do.

He might disapprove of this man altogether as a son-in-law,--and at the present moment he thought that he did,--but still the man was entitled to a civil answer.

How were lovers to approach the ladies of their love in any manner more respectful than this?
"Mr.Lopez," he said, "you must forgive me if I say that you are comparatively a stranger to us." "That is an accident which would be easily cured if your will in that direction were as good as mine." "But, perhaps, it isn't.

One has to be explicit in these matters.
A daughter's happiness is a very serious consideration,--and some people, among whom I confess that I am one, consider that like should marry like.

I should wish to see my daughter marry,--not only in my own sphere, neither higher nor lower,--but with some one of my own class." "I hardly know, Mr.Wharton, whether that is intended to exclude me." "Well,--to tell you the truth I know nothing about you.