In spite of restricted space, the Cartwrights found it impossible to relinquish the habit of universal hospitality.

As if discontented with the narrow proportions of her own family, Mrs.
Cartwright was never thoroughly at ease unless she had three or four friends to occupy every available square foot of floor in her diminutive sitting-room, and to squeeze around the table when meals were served.

In vain did acquaintances hold apart from a sense of consideration, or time their visits when eating and drinking could scarcely be in question; they were given plainly to understand that their delicacy was an offence, and that, if they stayed away, it would be put down to their pride.

It was almost impossible to hit an hour for calling at which the family would be alone; generally, as soon as the front door opened, the ear of the visitor was assailed with laughter loud and long, with multitudinous vociferation, Mrs.Cartwright's rich voice high above all others.

The room itself was a spectacle for men and gods.