In Rome, at the Japanese and Brazilian embassies (where, because of his wealth, he gained introduction), and at the newly established Italian Court, he encountered at a distance charming social figures of considerable significance--Italian countesses, English ladies of high degree, talented American women of strong artistic and social proclivities.

As a rule they were quick to recognize the charm of his manner, the incisiveness and grip of his mind, and to estimate at all its worth the high individuality of his soul; but he could also always see that Aileen was not so acceptable.
She was too rich in her entourage, too showy.

Her glowing health and beauty was a species of affront to the paler, more sublimated souls of many who were not in themselves unattractive.
"Isn't that the typical American for you," he heard a woman remark, at one of those large, very general court receptions to which so many are freely admitted, and to which Aileen had been determined to go.

He was standing aside talking to an acquaintance he had made--an English-speaking Greek banker stopping at the Grand Hotel--while Aileen promenaded with the banker's wife.

The speaker was an Englishwoman.
"So gaudy, so self-conscious, and so naive!" Cowperwood turned to look.