Class distinctions were preserved to the utmost possible extent, and, while the original basis of the town had been Dutch, the fashion was now distinctly English.

London set the style for everything.
When they were all seated, the display of fine dress and jewels was extraordinary, just as the wealth and splendor shown in some of the New York houses had already attracted the astonished attention of many of the British officers, to whom the finest places in their own country were familiar.
And while Robert was looking so eagerly, the party to which he belonged did not pass unnoticed by any means.

Master Benjamin Hardy was well known.

He was bold and successful and he was a man of great substance.

He had qualities that commanded respect in colonial New York, and people were not averse to being seen receiving his friendly nod.