This change, if it deteriorated his mind, improved his exterior.

It was a change that could not but please women; and of all women his mother the most.

Mrs.
Beaufort was a lady of high birth; and in marrying her, Robert had hoped much from the interest of her connections; but a change in the ministry had thrown her relations out of power; and, beyond her dowry, he obtained no worldly advantage with the lady of his mercenary choice.
Mrs.Beaufort was a woman whom a word or two will describe.

She was thoroughly commonplace--neither bad nor good, neither clever nor silly.
She was what is called well-bred; that is, languid, silent, perfectly dressed, and insipid.

Of her two children, Arthur was almost the exclusive favourite, especially after he became the heir to such brilliant fortunes.