"That's different," said Mrs. Wishart shortly.
"Different from what you mean?"
"Different from what is meant here, when we use the term."
"You don't mean anything honest and religious?" said Madge.
"O, honest! My dear, everybody is honest, or supposed to be; but we do not mean religious."
"Not religious, and only supposed to be honest!" echoed Madge.
"Yes," said Mrs. Wishart. "It isn't that. It has nothing to do with that. When people have been in society, and held high positions for generation after generation, it is a good family. The individuals need not be all good."
"Oh—!" said Madge.
"No. I know families among the very best in the State, that have been wicked enough; but though they have been wicked, that did not hinder their being gentlemen."
"Oh—!" said Madge again. "I begin to comprehend."