He said that the gentleman who had left so abruptly had quite misconstrued the tenour of his paper.

So far from intending to describe farmers as lacking in intelligence, all he wished to show was that they did not use their natural abilities, from a certain traditionary bowing to custom.

They did not like their neighbours to think that they were doing anything novel.

No one respected the feelings that had grown up and strengthened from childhood, no one respected the habits of our ancestors, more than he did; no one knew better the solid virtues that adorned the homes of agriculturists.

Far, indeed, be it from him to say aught--[Boom! and the rattling of rain against the window]--aught that could--but he saw that gentlemen were anxious to get home, and would conclude.
A vote of thanks was hurriedly got over, and the assembly broke up and hastened down the staircase.