Some remain clusters of dialects like those of the Pamirs; others are at varying levels of stabilisation; some may be young standard languages, having only recently achieved that status; …

...abroad and at home, at their Tables or in their Closets...

a man of sturdy piety or patriotism

[Y]our friend, John Edward, is at the other end of the room with his whole soul held in thrall by photographs of other people's relatives.