"I may say that I understand boys, and I feel that he is a rare, a fine, a pure, a lofty spirit.

I say spirit, for spirit is the word I hear spoken of him." A chorus of enthusiastic approbation affirmed the accuracy of this proclamation, and Mrs.Bassett flushed with pleasure.

Georgie's spiritual perfection was demonstrated by instances of it, related by the visitors; his piety was cited, and wonderful things he had said were quoted.
"Not all boys are pure, of fine spirit, of high mind," said Mr.
Kinosling, and continued with true feeling: "You have a neighbour, dear Mrs.Bassett, whose household I indeed really feel it quite impossible to visit until such time when better, firmer, stronger handed, more determined discipline shall prevail.

I find Mr.and Mrs.Schofield and their daughter charming----" Three or four ladies said "Oh!" and spoke a name simultaneously.

It was as if they had said, "Oh, the bubonic plague!" "Oh! Penrod Schofield!" "Georgie does not play with him," said Mrs.Bassett quickly--"that is, he avoids him as much as he can without hurting Penrod's feelings.
Georgie is very sensitive to giving pain.