'So I have already perceived, Mr. Pennycomequick.'
'What a surprise this green basin of valley is to one emerging from the ravine of the Reuss!' said Philip.
'Yes,' with indifference; then, with animation, 'By the way, you were in the carriage with Colonel Yeo.'
'I beg pardon, he was in the carriage with me.'
'I suppose you are old friends?' said the lady.
Philip stiffened his back. 'Miss Durham, we belong to distinct classes of society. With his I have nothing in common.'
'But you knew each other?'
'I knew of him. I cannot say I knew him.'
'Have you no ambition to rise to his social grade?'
'To—rise—to—his—social grade!' It took Philip some time to digest this question. He replied ironically, 'None in the least, I do assure you. I am thankful to say I belong to that middle class which works for its living honourably, diligently, and finds its pleasure and its pride in industry.'