“It seems to me that honorable birth, talent, and pure morals, should form the aristocracy of a great nation—these are personal attributes which cannot be attained by accident or dishonesty, as money is often acquired.”
Mrs. Lambert made an impatient movement with her hand.
“It is useless arguing, Ivon. Class must be distinguished as we find it. The Lamberts have no need to doubt their position in any country. Be careful not to imperil it by too open attentions to the girl I have been speaking of.”
“But, mother, she is refined and beautiful.”
“So much the more dangerous.”
“Thoroughly educated, accomplished, even.”
“Perhaps! How am I to know?”
“You have seen her, heard her speak.”
“Yes, I have seen that she is dangerously beautiful; heard her speak with shrinking, that seemed almost repulsion. Ivon! Ivon! let me never hear of her again!”
“How can you be so prejudiced, mother, knowing so little of the poor girl?”