The events of the day
were interrupting the ordinary run of thought, and I felt at a miserable
disadvantage. I saw, however, that the girl was gifted and clear of mind,
and possessed of great physical charm, but of that fine sort which must
be seen in suitable surroundings to be properly appreciated. Here on
board ship a sweet gravity and a proud decorum--not altogether
unnecessary--prevented her from being seen at once to the best advantage.
Even at this moment I respected her the more for it, and was not
surprised, nor exactly displeased, that she adroitly drew her father and
Clovelly into the conversation. With Clovelly she seemed to find
immediate ground for naive and pleasant talk; on his part, deferential,
original, and attentive; on hers, easy, allusive, and warmed with piquant
humour. I admired her; saw how cleverly Clovelly was making the most of
her; guessed at the solicitude, studious care, and affection of her
bringing-up; watched the fond pleasure of the father as he listened; and
was angry with myself that Mrs. Falchion's voice rang in my ears at the
same moment as hers. But it did ring there, and the real value of that
smart tournament of ideas was partially lost to me.
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