They kept entirely by
themselves, eyeing every one askance that came near them, as if
measuring his claims to respectability; yet they were without
conversation, except the exchange of an occasional cant phrase. They
even moved artificially; for their bodies, in compliance with the
caprice of the day, had been disciplined into the absence of all
ease and freedom. Art had done every thing to accomplish them as men
of fashion, but nature had denied them the nameless grace. They were
vulgarly shaped, like men formed for the common purposes of life,
and had that air of supercilious assumption which is never seen in the
true gentleman.
I have been rather minute in drawing the pictures of these two
families, because I considered them specimens of what is often to be
met with in this country- the unpretending great, and the arrogant
little. I have no respect for titled rank, unless it be accompanied
with true nobility of soul; but I have remarked in all countries where
artificial distinctions exist, that the very highest classes are
always the most courteous and unassuming. Those who are well assured
of their own standing are least apt to trespass on that of others;
whereas nothing is so offensive as the aspirings of vulgarity, which
thinks to elevate itself by humiliating its neighbor.
As I have brought these families into contrast, I must notice
their behavior in church. That of the nobleman's family was quiet,
serious, and attentive. Not that they appeared to have any fervor of
devotion, but rather a respect for sacred things, and sacred places,
inseparable from good breeding.
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