Page:Eliot - Daniel Deronda, vol. I, 1876.djvu/94

 now—another song from you would be a relaxation," said Mrs Arrowpoint, who had also come near with polite intentions.

"That must be because you are in a puerile state of culture, and have no breadth of horizon. I have just learned that. I have been taught how bad my taste is, and am feeling growing pains. They are never pleasant," said Gwendolen, not taking any notice of Mrs Arrowpoint, and looking up with a bright smile at young Clintock.

Mrs Arrowpoint was not insensible to this rudeness, but merely said, "Well, we will not press anything disagreeably:" and as there was a perceptible outrush of imprisoned conversation just then, and a movement of guests seeking each other, she remained seated where she was, and looked round her with the relief of the hostess at finding she is not needed.

"I am glad you like this neighbourhood," said young Clintock, well pleased with his station in front of Gwendolen.

"Exceedingly. There seems to be a little of everything and not much of anything."

"That is rather equivocal praise."

"Not with me. I like a little of everything;