In some way he had been defrauded.
It never could have been intended that a man capable of winning so many of his heart's desires as he had proved himself to be, should be tied to a woman incapable of illuminating and honoring his position.

If he only had a wife of whose person he could be proud! If he only had a wife whose queenly presence and manners would give significance to the splendors of the Palgrave mansion! There was no way left for him, however, but to make the best of his circumstances, and put a brave face upon the matter.

Accordingly, the next morning after his arrival, he told, with such display of enthusiasm as he could assume, the story of his purchase.

The children were all attention, and made no hesitation to express their delight with the change that lay before them.

Mrs.Belcher grew pale, choked over her breakfast, and was obliged to leave the table.