Of course he is a man of a different stamp,--and of a higher stamp,
if you will. But I have an idea that such characters as those of the
present Duke are necessary to the maintenance of a great aristocracy.
He has had the power of making the world believe in him simply
because he has been rich and a duke. His nephew, when he comes to the
title, will never receive a tithe of the respect that has been paid
to this old faineant."
"But he will achieve much more than ten times the reputation," said
Phineas.
"I won't compare them, nor will I argue; but I like the Duke. Nay;--I
love him. During the last two years I have allowed the whole fashion
of my life to be remodelled by this intimacy. You knew what were my
habits. I have only been in Vienna for one week since I last saw you,
and I have spent months and months at Matching."
"What do you do there?"
"Read to him;--talk to him;--give him his food, and do all that in
me lies to make his life bearable. Last year, when it was thought
necessary that very distinguished people should be entertained at the
great family castle,--in Barsetshire, you know--"
"I have heard of the place.
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