The whole room looked immediately almost sordid to the poor woman, and she felt no longer anxious for Beatrice to appreciate its beauties.
At that moment Clara appeared with the tea.

Now, if there was a thing Mrs.Meadowsweet was particular about it was her tea; she revelled in her tea; she always bought it from some very particular and exclusive house in London.

She saw that it was served strong and hot; she was particular to have it made with what she called the "first boil" of the water.

Water that had boiled for five minutes made, in Mrs.
Meadowsweet's opinion, contemptible tea.

Then she liked it well sweetened, and flavored with very rich cream.