Her connections, too, were so perfectly respectable (though humble enough in comparison with Mr.
Buxton's soaring wishes), that there was nothing to be objected to on that score; her position was the great offence.

In proportion to his want of any reason but this one, for disapproving of the engagement, was his annoyance under it.

He assumed a reserve toward Frank; which was so unusual a restraint upon his open, genial disposition, that it seemed to make him irritable toward all others in contact with him, excepting Erminia.

He found it difficult to behave rightly to Maggie.

Like all habitually cordial persons, he went into the opposite extreme, when he wanted to show a little coolness.