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238 man like Penrhyn; it is quite in character that she should, as Hamlet says in the play, proceed "But surely, dear mamma, Mr. Glentworth is still more a city man than Mr. Penrhyn, who has been a merchant a very short time, whereas the other was engaged many years." "Yes; but Glentworth's shame was hidden by transacting business abroad, and his rich uncle's estates covered the disgrace. Indeed, money, when there is plenty of it, will cover every thing; but a mere handsome competence leaves you exposed to a thousand remarks—you are numbered with respectable people, like the Palmers, for instance; you have no style, no debts (not that debts are desirable, but the contrary) no fashion, no ancient importance to turn back upon, no modern landmark, such as an extravagant entertainment, a costly embassy, a loss or gain at Newmarket, or a crash at Doncaster, to be talked of; you have no title, no caste, no any thing. It is far better to be a distinguished author than to be distinguished for nothing, which is generally the case with respectable people, who 'pay their way,' as the saying is, and delight in private charity, and bringing up large families well." "Dear mamma," Helen replied, thankful by any medium to escape the fancy fair and its attendant reproaches, "however strange you may think it, Count