Yet, knowing how to make the most of their limited stock of knowledge, they acquit themselves well in conversation.

Indeed, they have a natural aptitude for the social arts which insures their success in society, where they move with ease and elegance.

Their oriental mellifluousness, hyperbolism, and obsequious politeness of speech have, as well as the Asiatic appearance of their features and dress, been noticed by all travellers in Poland.

Love of show is another very striking trait in the character of the Poles.

It struggles to manifest itself among the poor, causes the curious mixture of splendour and shabbiness among the better-situated people, and gives rise to the greatest extravagances among the wealthy.