In every little patch of shadow he could see two forms standing or sitting close together, and in their presence Words the Impostors seemed to hold their tongues.

The wind rustled the buds; the stars, one moment bright as diamonds, vanished the next.

In the lower streets a large part of the world was under the influence of drink, but by this Shelton was far from being troubled.

It seemed better than Drama, than dressing-bagged men, unruffled women, and padded points of view, better than the immaculate solidity of his friend's possessions.
"So," he reflected, "it's right for every reason, social, religious, and convenient, to inflict one's society where it's not desired.

There are obviously advantages about the married state; charming to feel respectable while you're acting in a way that in any other walk of life would bring on you contempt.