AN ASSEMBLY.


Mrs Mears, whose character was of that common sort which renders
delineation superfluous, received them with the customary forms of
good breeding.

Mrs Harrel soon engaged herself at a card-table; and Cecilia, who
declined playing, was seated next to Miss Leeson, who arose to
return the courtesy she made in advancing to her, but that past, did
not again even look at her.

Cecilia, though fond of conversation and formed for society, was too
diffident to attempt speaking where so little encouraged; they both,
therefore, continued silent, till Sir Robert Floyer, Mr Harrel, and
Mr Arnott entered the room together, and all at the same time
advanced to Cecilia.

"What," cried Mr Harrel, "don't you chuse to play, Miss Beverley?"

"I flatter myself," cried Mr Arnott, "that Miss Beverley never plays
at all, for then, in one thing, I shall have the honour to resemble
her."

"Very seldom, indeed," answered Cecilia, "and consequently very
ill."

"O, you must take a few lessons," said Mr Harrel, "Sir Robert
Floyer, I am sure, will be proud to instruct you."