"He has words enough at command," said Margarette,—"but a scarcity of ideas; and those he has are not weighty. While listening to him I could not help thinking it was like dressing a little four-penny doll, in a large robe of silver tissue. Mr. Montague's conversation was really entertaining and instructive."
"I expected you to be severe, of course," said Alice, "yet I think you can find no fault with his manners."
"He is quite at his ease, and appears a gentleman, certainly," said Margarette, "yet his manners did not please me. There was too much show—he was too easy—has too much manner; and, if I may judge from one interview, he is not at all wanting in self-complacency."
"Cousin Hubert's quiet way suited your singular taste better, I dare say," said Alice.
"It certainly did—for he did not appear to be thinking of himself. His manners to-day were truly polished and refined; and if they arise from his heart, as I hope they did, I should judge very favorably of the man."
"I suppose you think him best looking, too!" said Alice—"best dressed and all!"
"In person they are both elegant young men," said Margarette, "but Mr. Montague's dress certainly suited me best,—as I doubt whether to be comfortable is not his first object in the choice of his apparel. As for Mr. Gordon, he must make dress a study. You see, Alice, as I had nothing to do but look and listen, I could learn a good deal of them in the hour and a half that they were here."
"Well, as you studied them, do let me know what you think of their faces."
"I have told you enough for once," said Margarette, "wait for the remainder till I see them again—perhaps I may change my opinion."