There were days when we at least believed--quite obstinately--in a number of things." "Sometimes quite heroically," she admitted.

"'God Save the Queen' in its long day had actual glow and passion.

I have thrilled and glowed myself at the shouting song of it." "Yes," he drew a little nearer to her and his cold face gained a slight colour.

"In those days when a son--or a grandson--was born to the head of a house it was a serious and impressive affair." "Yes." And he knew she at once recalled her own son--and George in Flanders.
"It meant new generations, and generations counted for decent dignity as well as power.

A farmer would say with huge pride, 'Me and mine have worked the place for four generations,' as he would say of the owner of the land, 'Him and his have held it for six centuries.' Centuries and generations are in danger of no longer inspiring special reverence.