In the text from Georgette Heyer's "Venetia," the narrator reflects on a time when social norms permitted more direct confrontation, suggesting that a more honorable response to someone's arrogance would have been to physically jostle them. This action would have compelled the individual to confront the speaker, marking a clear social challenge. It hints at a historical context where such behavior was acceptable, indicating a contrast with contemporary manners.

The reflection also questions whether even in that more noble era, such actions were tempered by the presence of a lady. The mention of a lady suggests societal constraints that govern behavior, hinting at the interplay between chivalry and gender norms. Overall, this excerpt underscores the complexities of social interactions and the expectations placed upon individuals in a refined society.