( the footman takes away his bowl and, within moments, sets down an empty plate for him. in an informal setting such as this, dinner is served buffet style. in atticus's peripheral vision, the footman stands just nearby, waiting and almost expecting to serve atticus his meal. however, atticus is a man of independence and serves himself a slice of mutton, asparagus, and a spoonful of potatoes. the vegetables only wade in butter. )

I speak in general terms. No, no. ( he shakes his head. ) I deserve every esteem bestowed upon my person as I am the paragon of integrity and humility. Shall we all agree to that?

( his behaviour would be condemned as contemptible and prideful if it wasn't for the facetious wink he shoots at mr. bennet. like most, atticus is aware of his merits and failings. he has tallied and studied them to value the good and resolve the bad. but he does not believe the ill outweighs the good. in the past, he has performed deeds that may not be highly regarded by polite society but, in the impolite society of war, they had to be done. it is a weak justification but no person who has experienced the grave places and ordeals he has would disagree. but this is neither the time, place, nor company to have that discussion.

atticus cuts a small piece of mutton, eats it, and almost grimaces. in typical british fashion, the food is plain and seasoned only barely. it's a certainty that the cook in the kitchen is not french nor french-trained. still, he continues to eat the mutton, dragging it through the butter from the asparagus for flavour. ) With food like this, I believe I shall make a swift recovery.