What I mean is that he's a man with a great position who's playing all sorts of tricks with it.

He doesn't take himself seriously." "Does he regard himself as a joke ?" "Much worse; he regards himself as an imposition--as an abuse." "Well, perhaps he is," said Isabel.
"Perhaps he is--though on the whole I don't think so.

But in that case what's more pitiable than a sentient, self-conscious abuse planted by other hands, deeply rooted but aching with a sense of its injustice?
For me, in his place, I could be as solemn as a statue of Buddha.
He occupies a position that appeals to my imagination.

Great responsibilities, great opportunities, great consideration, great wealth, great power, a natural share in the public affairs of a great country.

But he's all in a muddle about himself, his position, his power, and indeed about everything in the world.