"So, while more or less fortunate little rich boys were defying governesses on the beach at Newport, or being spanked or tutored or read to from 'Do and Dare,' or 'Frank on the Mississippi,' Amory was biting acquiescent bell-boys in the Waldorf, outgrowing a natural repugnance to chamber music and symphonies, and deriving a highly specialized education from his mother." (Book 1, Chapter 1)

"There was, also, a curious strain of weakness running crosswise through his make-up . . . a harsh phrase from the lips of an older boy (older boys usually detested him) was liable to sweep him off his poise into surly sensitiveness, or timid stupidity . . . he was a slave to his own moods and he felt that though he was capable of recklessness and audacity, he possessed neither courage, perseverance, nor self-respect." (Book 1, Chapter 1)

"Those who were too obviously, too nervously at home were freshmen, for as...