The major portion of his capital is, with his wife's, in the 'firm'; it is administered and employed for him by men whose family interests and his are identical, whose knowledge of business is profound, whose own capital is there too.

It is a fortunate state of things, not brought about in a day, but the growth of more than one generation.

Now this man, as has been remarked, has a taste for country life--that is to say, he is an enthusiast over horses--not betting, but horses in their best form.

He likes to ride and drive about, to shoot, and fish, and hunt.

There is nothing despicable in this, but, after the manner of men, of course he must find an excuse.
He found it in the children when they were young--two boys and one girl.
It was better for them to have country air, to ride about the country lanes, and over the hills.