At one moment there had been grave doubt in Madame's mind as to whether or not she should employ young Mrs.Fowler in her respectable house; then, after a brief hesitation, she had shrewdly decided that ideas were worth something even when lacking the support of social position and financial security.
There were undoubtedly possibilities in Gabriella; and disgrace, Madame concluded cheerfully, could not take away either one's natural talent or one's aristocratic appearance.

That the girl had distinction, even rare distinction, Madame admitted while she nodded approvingly at the severe black cloth gown with its collar and cuffs of fine white crape.

The simple arrangement of her hair, which would have ruined many a pretty face, suited the ivory pallor of Gabriella's features.

Mourning was becoming to her, Madame decided, and though she was not beautiful, she was unusually charming.
"She has few good points except her figure, and yet the whole is decidedly picturesque," thought Madame as impersonally as if she were criticising a fashion plate.

"Very young men would hardly care for her--for very young men demand fine complexions and straight noses--but with older men who like an air, who admire grace, she would be taking, and women, yes, women would undoubtedly find her imposing.