Fleeceborough smiles when it meets at night in its council-rooms, with its glass and pipe; Fleeceborough knows that the traditional policy of the Hall will continue, and that policy is acceptable to it.
What manner of man is this 'despot' and prince behind his vast walls?
Verily his physique matters nothing; whether he be old or of middle age, tall or short, infirm or strong.

The policy of the house keeps the actual head and owner rather in the background.

His presence is never obtruded; he is rarely seen; you may stay in his capital for months and never catch a glimpse of him.

He will not appear at meetings, that every man may be free, nor hesitate to say his say, and abuse what he lists to abuse.

The policy is simply perfect freedom, with support and substantial assistance to any and to every movement set on foot by the respectable men of Fleeceborough, or by the tenant farmers round about.