Those who thought themselves among the first to move were surprised to find the tables already surrounded by young men and women, who had been more interested in the status of the supper-room than in the social enjoyments of the parlors, and who had improved their advanced state of observation by securing precedence of the rest, and stood waiting for the signal to begin.
Mr.Birtwell had a high respect for the Church, and on an occasion like this could do no less than honor one of its dignitaries by requesting him to ask a blessing on the sumptuous repast he had provided--on the rich food and the good wine and brandy he was about dispensing with such a liberal hand.

So, in the waiting pause that ensued after the room was well filled, Mr.Elliott was called upon to bless this feast, which he did in a raised, impressive and finely modulated voice.

Then came the rattle of plates and the clink of glasses, followed by the popping of champagne and the multitudinous and distracting Babel of tongues.
Mr.Ridley, who felt much inclined to favor the superficial and ill-advised utterances of Mr.Elliott, took scarcely any heed of what Dr.Hillhouse had replied.

In fact, knowing that the doctor was free with wine himself, he did not give much weight to what he said, feeling that he was talking more for argument's sake than to express his real sentiments.
A feeling of repression came over Mr.Ridley as he entered the supper-room and his eyes ran down the table.

Half of this sumptuous feast was forbidden enjoyment.