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Thackeray, William Makepeace, 1811-1863

"The History of Pendennis"


Not so much the historical part (for the pedigrees, between ourselves,
are many of them very fabulous, and there are few families that can show
such a clear descent as our own) as the account of family alliances, and
who is related to whom. I have known a man's career in life blasted by
ignorance on this important, this all-important subject. Why, only last
month, at dinner at my Lord Hobanob's, a young man, who has lately been
received among us, young Mr. Suckling (author of a work, I believe),
began to speak lightly of Admiral Bowser's conduct for ratting to
Ministers, in what I must own is the most audacious manner. But who do
you think sate next and opposite to this Mr. Suckling? Why--why, next to
him was Lady Grampound Bowser's daughter, and opposite to him was Lord
Grampound Bowser's son-in-law. The infatuated young man went on cutting
his jokes at the Admiral's expense, fancying that all the world was
laughing with him, and I leave you to imagine Lady Hobanob's feelings--
Hobanob's!--those of every well-bred man, as the wretched intru was so
exposing himself.


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