friends. Indeed, as far as I am concerned, I desire to be freed from
acquaintances of this description; I do not wish my peace ever and
anon interfered with in such an unpleasant way."

"We should not," Mrs. Appleton replied, "consider only ourselves in
these, or indeed in any matters pertaining to social intercourse,
but should endeavour sometimes to look away from what is most
pleasant and gratifying to ourselves, and study to make others
happy. You know that the appearance which true politeness puts on is
that of preferring others to ourselves. We offer them the best
seats, or the most eligible positions; or present them with the
choicest viands at the table. We introduce subjects of conversation
that we think will interest others more than ourselves, and deny
ourselves in various ways, that others may be obliged and gratified.
Now, the question is, are these mere idle and unmeaning forms? Or is
it right that we should feel as we act? If they are unmeaning forms,
then are the courtesies of social intercourse a series of acts most
grossly hypocritical. If not so, then it is right that we should
prefer others to ourselves; and it is right for us, when we find
that a friend is under a painful mistake--even if to approach her
may cause some sacrifice of our feelings--for us to go to that
friend and disabuse her mind of error. Do you not think so, Louisa?"

"I certainly cannot gainsay your position, Mrs. Appleton; but still
I feel altogether disinclined to make any overtures to Maria."

"Why so, Louisa?"

"Because I can imagine no cause for her present strange conduct, and
therefore see no way of approaching"--