All these dainties, mingling their various odours with the aroma of the tea and fine old java that came steaming forth from the richly chased silver pots, could not fail to produce a very appetising effect.
There was nothing about Mr.Garie, the gentleman who sat at the head of the table, to attract more than ordinary attention.

He had the ease of manner usual with persons whose education and associations have been of a highly refined character, and his countenance, on the whole, was pleasing, and indicative of habitual good temper.
Opposite to him, and presiding at the tea-tray, sat a lady of marked beauty.

The first thing that would have attracted attention on seeing her were her gloriously dark eyes.

They were not entirely black, but of that seemingly changeful hue so often met with in persons of African extraction, which deepens and lightens with every varying emotion.

Hers wore a subdued expression that sank into the heart and at once riveted those who saw her.
Her hair, of jetty black, was arranged in braids; and through her light-brown complexion the faintest tinge of carmine was visible.