On such occasions his unblinking stare, wholly receptive like an underling taking orders, and never a glimmer of either contradiction or agreement or even intelligence to show therein, was almost disconcerting.

Mrs.Hanway-Harley, however, declared that this receptive, inane stare was the hall-mark of exclusive English circles.
Mr.Gwynn gave another proof of culture; he pitched upon the best wine and stuck to it, tasting and relishing with educated palate.

This set him up with Mr.Harley.
"Yes, I shall make the most of you, Mr.Gwynn," said Mrs.Hanway-Harley.
By way of making the most of Mr.Gwynn, Mrs.Hanway-Harley spoke of meeting Mr.Storms.In her opinion that young man did not appreciate the goodness of Mr.Gwynn, and was far from grateful for those benefits which the latter showered upon him.

At this intelligence, Mr.Gywnn was taken so aback that Mrs.Hanway-Harley stopped abruptly and shifted the conversation.

Mrs.Hanway-Harley was one of those who have half-tact; they know enough to back out and not enough to keep out of a blunder.
The dinner was neither long nor formal.