Their
brothers were tall, and elegantly formed. They were dressed
fashionably, but simply; with strict neatness and propriety, but
without any mannerism or foppishness. Their whole demeanor was easy
and natural, with that lofty grace, and noble frankness, which bespeak
freeborn souls that have never been checked in their growth by
feelings of inferiority. There is a healthful hardiness about real
dignity, that never dreads contact and communion with others,
however humble. It is only spurious pride that is morbid and
sensitive, and shrinks from every touch. I was pleased to see the
manner in which they would converse with the peasantry about those
rural concerns and field-sports, in which the gentlemen of this
country so much delight. In these conversations there was neither
haughtiness on the one part, nor servility on the other; and you
were only reminded of the difference of rank by the. habitual
respect of the peasant.
In contrast to these was the family of a wealthy citizen, who had
amassed a vast fortune; and, having purchased the estate and mansion
of a ruined nobleman in the neighborhood, was endeavoring to assume
all the style and dignity of an hereditary lord of the soil. The
family always came to church en prince. They were rolled
majestically along in a carriage emblazoned with arms. The crest
glittered in silver radiance from every part of the harness where a
crest could possibly be placed. A fat coachman, in a three-cornered
hat, richly laced, and a flaxen wig, curling close round his rosy
face, was seated on the box, with a sleek Danish dog beside him.
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