The oldest families there were not the richest--the Ryders, in particular.
Judge Ryder had four unmarried daughters; they were the only girls in our set who never invited us to visit them.

They could not help saying, with a fork of the neck, "Who are the Morgesons ?" But all the others welcomed Cousin Alice, and were friendly with me.

She was too pretty and kind-hearted not to be liked, if she was rich; and Cousin Charles was respected, because he made no acquaintance beyond bows, and "How-de-do's." It was rather a stirring thing to have such a citizen, especially when he met with an accident, and he broke many carriages in the course of time; and now and then there was a row at the mills, which made talk.

His being considered a hard man did not detract from the interest he inspired.
My advent in Rosville might be considered a fortunate one; appearances indicated it; I am sure I thought so, and was very well satisfied with my position.

I conformed to the ways of the family with ease, even in the matter of small breakfasts and light suppers.