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The Klingenders had a large sense of hospitality, and had determined not to deal out their invitations by the yard measure of Mrs. Grundy. Consequently all the neighbours, gentle and simple, who by any stretch of fancy could be construed into dancing people, were brought into their fold; and the extra element of “outsiders” gave a piquancy to the general flavour, like the clove of garlic which the French chef rubs over the salad bowl, and which, “unsuspected, animates the whole.” The up-country detachment were chiefly distinguishable by the intensified accent of their dress and manners. They did everything in italics, as it were. They were all punctual to a fault in arriving, majestic and ceremonious in their greeting, conscientious to the point of solemnity in working out the steps and evolutions of the quadrilles and Lancers. When it came to the more rapid whirl of waltzes and galops, however, the up-country contingent knew what was required of them. They danced very well as a whole, and with the greatest empressement and vitality. It was a point of honour with the girls not to give in for a moment’s pause till the last note of the waltz had died away; and they spoke not a word, and hardly smiled, until they could feel that this stern duty was accomplished.