They are not in a
state of co-operation, but of isolation, as to the making of
fortunes; and for all the rest they are careless of
neighbours. Christianity teaches us to love our neighbour as
ourself; modern society acknowledges no neighbour."
"Well, we live in strange times," said Egremont, struck by the
observation of his companion, and relieving a perplexed spirit
by an ordinary exclamation, which often denotes that the mind
is more stirring than it cares to acknowledge, or at the
moment is capable to express.
"When the infant begins to walk, it also thinks that it lives
in strange times," said his companion.
"Your inference?" asked Egremont.
"That society, still in its infancy, is beginning to feel its
way."
"This is a new reign," said Egremont, "perhaps it is a new
era."
"I think so," said the younger stranger.
"I hope so," said the elder one.
"Well, society may be in its infancy," said Egremont slightly
smiling; "but, say what you like, our Queen reigns over the
greatest nation that ever existed."
"Which nation?" asked the younger stranger, "for she reigns
over two."
The stranger paused; Egremont was silent, but looked
inquiringly.
"Yes," resumed the younger stranger after a moment's interval.
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