G. A. Birmingham

“ A tarnished cruet-stand, a britannia-metal teapot, and several wine decanters, with labels hung round their necks, adorned the sideboard.
It is the function of an upper class to maintain a standard of beautiful living. ”

“ He himself held the Union contracts for potatoes, turf, milk, flour, and meal, and sometimes acknowledged that he made a profit out of them. One of his nephews was the dispensary doctor; his salary was small, but he made something out of his private practice. Mr. Patrick Sweeny frequently advanced to impecunious farmers the amount necessary to pay the doctor's fees. Another nephew was Member of Parliament for the Southern Division of the County; he also drew a salary.
Once, a very long time ago, it was extremely profitable in Ireland to be connected with one of the great families. ”

“ Her farm was a good one, held at a judicial rent. The tenant's interest would sell for a respectable sum. The agent's claim would be satisfied, Mr. Patrick Sweeny's bill settled, and she would have enough left to pay her way to America. There, no doubt, the girls would get something to do. Anyway, she would have a little money in her pocket, and "Sure, God is good."
In due time notices appeared in the local paper of a sale by auction of the tenant's interest in Gorteen farm. There was much talk in the neighbourhood. ”

“ When he had finished, the doctor said:
"It's risky!"
"It'll be a deal more risky for you if I bring an Inspector down to inquire into Mrs. Gannon's death."
"I don't see what I get out of the business. Why don't you get someone else?"
"I can't trust anyone else. If the thing got out on me, I might never get the farm. I can trust you on account of the hold I have over you with all the talk there is about Mrs. ”