But, in the present time, the gentlemen whose principles do not permit
them to pay court to the existing government are neglected and degraded,
and many conduct themselves accordingly; and, like some of the persons
you have seen at Tully-Veolan, adopt habits and companions inconsistent
with their birth and breeding. The ruthless proscription of party seems
to degrade the victims whom it brands, however unjustly. But let us hope
that a brighter day is approaching, when a Scottish country-gentleman
may be a scholar without the pedantry of our friend the Baron; a
sportsman, without the low habits of Mr. Falconer; and a judicious
improver of his property, without becoming a boorish two-legged steer
like Killancureit.'
Thus did Flora prophesy a revolution, which time indeed has produced,
but in a manner very different from what she had in her mind.
The amiable Rose was next mentioned, with the warmest encomium on
her person, manners, and mind, 'That man,' said Flora, 'will find an
inestimable treasure in the affections of Rose Bradwardine, who shall be
so fortunate as to become their object. Her very soul is in home, and
in the discharge of all those quiet virtues of which home is the centre.
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