In a few seconds, a large group gathered before the picture of which Theophilus and Miss Lee formed the nucleus, and half a dozen wax-lights were held up to exhibit it to the best advantage.
Theophilus was eloquent in praising Lawrence's style of painting, and entertained the company with an elaborate detail of all the celebrated paintings he had seen abroad; the studios he had visited, and the distinguished artists he had patronized.

He could talk well, when he pleased, on any subject, and possessed considerable talent and taste for the arts; yet, I thought him more egotistical and affected than usual, when standing beside the simple and graceful Catherine Lee.
She listened to him with politeness, until the gratuitous lecture came to an end, and then quietly resumed her seat at the table by me, with whom she entered into a lively conversation.
The swarthy glow of indignation mounted to my cousin's wan face.

He drew back, and muttered something inaudibly between his shut teeth, while I secretly enjoyed his chagrin.

When supper was announced I had the honour of conducting Miss Lee down stairs, leaving my cousin to take charge of the elder lady.

Nor did my triumph end here.