Sentence:  Mother...considered that the exclusiveness of Peter's circle was due not to its <WSD>distinction</WSD>, but to the fact that it was an inner Babylon of prodigality and whoredom, from which every Kensingtonian held aloof, except on the conventional tip-and-run excursions in pursuit of shopping, tea and theatres. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  Specifically, a feature that causes someone or something to stand out as being better; a mark of honour, rank, eminence or excellence; being distinguished.