Good manners were the foundations of civilization. Noise was for the poorly bred.”
-- Kitty (One)

Importance: These sentences indicate the dictates of high society early on in the work, and these sentiments pervade the work. The lines emphasize the importance of lineage and bloodlines. Old money families and blue bloods are the only civilized ones and it is their duty to lead others. The lines bespeak class distinction, particularly in the eyes of Kitty Milton. Also, the reference to noise being a mark of ill-breeding foreshadows the importance of silence among the elite.

Nobility, thy name is Milton."
-- Harry Lowell (Six)

Importance: This quote is in response to a discussion regarding the fact that at some point, those at the top must fall to appease the masses. However, Ogden refute this idea declaring he has no intention to be "cast out." He goes on to emphasize that he will remain on top because of "men who know...