More affecting was the feeling that there were little things going on of which he no longer heard.

Jessica was beginning to feel that her affairs were her own.

George, Jr., flourished about as if he were a man entirely and must needs have private matters.

All this Hurstwood could see, and it left a trace of feeling, for he was used to being considered--in his official position, at least--and felt that his importance should not begin to wane here.

To darken it all, he saw the same indifference and independence growing in his wife, while he looked on and paid the bills.
He consoled himself with the thought, however, that, after all, he was not without affection.