At the table Mrs. Preston introduced the subject of Godfrey's wrongs.
"I am surprised, Mr. Preston, that you took part against Godfrey when he was rudely assaulted this morning."
"I thought Godfrey in the wrong, my dear. That was my reason."
"You generally appear to think your own son in the wrong. You are ready to take part with any stranger against him," said Mrs. Preston, in a complaining manner.
"I don't think you are quite right just there," said her husband, good-humoredly. "I must say, however, that Godfrey generally is in the wrong."
"You are very unjust to him."
"I don't mean to be. I would be glad to praise him, but he is so overbearing to those whom he considers his inferiors, that I am frequently ashamed of his manner of treating others."
"The boy has some reason to feel proud. He must maintain his position."
"What is his position?"
"I don't think you need to ask. As our son he is entitled to a degree of consideration."