- 'Young Jolyon' Forsyte: To any true Forsyte, there is something repugnant about men so careless of their appearance as Philip Bosinney. It argues a lack of deference towards the rules of polite society - towards Forsytes, in other words. It strikes them as immoral, if not positively dangerous. But Soames, though a Forsyte through and through, is clever enough himself to recognise brains in others. He might despise Bosinney, but he intended to use his ability. After all, if the fellow could build houses, what did his clothes matter? And Bosinney? Well, he didn't know any more than Soames did that this was probably the most fateful day in both their lives.
- [Soames has engaged Bosinney to build a house at Robin Hill. June assures her fiancé he'll be famous; Philip doubts it on the strength of a single house]
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: But surely, it's going to be the most marvellous house ever built?
- June Forsyte: Well, of course it is. Oh Irene, you'll have no end of trouble! People will come for miles to see it.
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: And Soames won't let any of them inside the gate.
- June Forsyte: Oh!
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: Philip - may I call you that; we're going to be cousins?
- Philip Bosinney: I'm honoured.
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: Well, then, Philip: if you wish to please your client, you must build a high stone wall round the house, with broken glass on top. And strong iron gates and notices everywhere.
- Philip Bosinney: "Beware of the Dog." "Keep off the Grass."
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: "Abandon hope."
- June Forsyte: What nonsense! Soames loves to show off; you know he does, Irene. Why, look how he insists on you going to the best dressmakers. And the jewels he keeps buying you. Why ...
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: Yes, you're right and I'm wrong. Soames is very proud of his ... possessions.
- Soames Forsyte: I can't tell what you want.
- Irene Forsyte née Heron: If it's so important to you, why don't you ask?