fall, as it were, naturally, without thought or pains, into regular
and admirable motions."

It must be somewhat surprising to those who over-rate the
matter-of-fact character of the English people, that so great a
majority of them are attached to _dancing_. Among rank and wealth
this amusement admits of a finer display of beauty and artificial
decoration than almost any other recreation; for nothing can be more
splendid than a brilliantly illuminated and well-filled ball-room.
Dancing among the middle classes of society is equally mirthful though
not of so ostentatious a character, and it is a question whether the
latter, being free from the alloy of fashionable follies, are not more
exhilarated by sweet sounds than their wealthy superiors. But the
mushroom aristocracy and pride of purse often operate as checks to the
enjoyment of both these classes; and splendid dancing accommodations
sometimes put an end to the amusement. At Dorking, in Surrey, attached
to one of the inns is a ball-room, which cost the builder £12,000, and
here is one, or at most three balls during the year, while at scores
of places within our recollection, of less consequence, there are
monthly and even weekly balls; and we are inclined to think these
periodical recreations of great importance to the happiness of country
towns. But there is a species of intoxication sometimes arising
from them--that of dancing all night, to suffer from exhaustion and
rheumatism on the following day--an evil easy of remedy, by such
amusements being more frequent and less protracted. The influence
on the character of the people would probably be that of rendering
it more even, from the admixture or reciprocation of pleasure and
business being more proportional. This plan would get rid of much of
the ostentation and expense of a country ball, and would ultimately
prove the best antidote to the sins of scandal.