Sir Austin did his utmost to be hospitable cheerful, and requested them to dance.

If he had desired them to laugh he would have been obeyed, and in as hearty a manner.
"How triste!" said Mrs.Doria Forey to Lobourne's curate, as that most enamoured automaton went through his paces beside her with professional stiffness.
"One who does not suffer can hardly assent," the curate answered, basking in her beams.
"Ah, you are good!" exclaimed the lady.

"Look at my Clare.

She will not dance on her cousin's birthday with anyone but him.

What are we to do to enliven these people ?" "Alas, madam! you cannot do for all what you do for one," the curate sighed, and wherever she wandered in discourse, drew her back with silken strings to gaze on his enamoured soul.
He was the only gratified stranger present.