Next in point of regard came the elder daughter Monica. Patrician of feature, haughty in manner, exclusive by nature she had the true Kingsnorth air. She had no disturbing "ideas": no yearning for things not of her station. She was contented with the world as it had been made for her and seemed duly proud and grateful to have been born a Kingsnorth.
She was an excellent musician: rode fairly to hounds: bestowed prizes at the local charities with grace and distinction—as became a Kingsnorth—and looked coldly out at the world from behind the impenetrable barriers of an old name.
When she married Frederick Chichester, the rising barrister, connected with six county families, it was a proud day for old Kingsnorth.
His family had originally made their money in trade. The Chichesters had accumulated a fortune by professions. The distinction in England is marked.
One hesitates to acknowledge the salutation of the man who provides one with the necessities of life: a hearty handshake is occasionally extended to those who minister to one's luxuries.
In England the law is one of the most expensive of luxuries and its devotees command the highest regard.
Frederick Chichester came of a long line of illustrious lawyers—one had even reached the distinction of being made a judge. He belonged to an honourable profession.
Chichesters had made the laws of the country in the House of Commons as well as administered them in the Courts.
The old man was overjoyed.
He made a handsome settlement on his eldest daughter on her marriage and felt he had done well by her, even as she had by him.