[CHAP. IX.]
A DISCOVERY.
“And so you have no desire to live in the gay world of fashion, Lilya?” inquired Oriel Porphyry, as they sat together on the sofa.
“I do not understand what fashion means,” replied the simple girl.
“Fashion itself is merely the way in which a certain class of persons dress, think, speak, and conduct themselves,” said Oriel. “And the world of fashion is this exclusive class, with all its gaieties, its frivolities, its prejudices, its follies, and its crimes.”
“If there is any thing wrong in it, I certainly should not like to live there,” observed Lilya.
“What, not to partake of its brilliant pleasures, of its balls, operas, concerts, dinners, and fêtes?” asked the young merchant.
“The things you mention I know nothing of. Where do they grow?” inquired his fair companion.