Why it had still continued to retain its immaculateness was one of many similar mysteries which must always surround a character like Sophie's.

Every thing she accomplished seemed not so much to be done, as to take place, in accordance with her idea or resolve; and there were always, in her manifestations of whatever kind, more spiritual than material elements.
When Cornelia entered, Sophie laid down her sewing, and looked up-with a smile in her eyes, which were large and gray, and the only regularly beautiful part of her face.

She had a way of confining a smile to them, when wishing merely to express good-will or pleasure, which was peculiar to herself, and very effective.

Cornelia walked quite soberly up to the bedside, kissed her sister, and then stood silent for several moments.
Compared with her recent exhilaration, this was very extraordinary behavior.

She had rushed up-stairs intent upon pouring into Sophie's ears the whole gorgeous tale of her hopes and anticipations for the coming summer.