Her costume was, in short, very gay indeed.
"Out of all the bounds of nature and feminine modesty," said Alister.
"Of your grandmother's nature and modesty, maybe," retorted Dennis.

"But she's no gayer than the birds of the neighbourhood, anyway, and she's as neat, which is more than ye can say for many a young lady that's not so black in the face." In short, Dennis approved of Alfonso's bride, and I think the lady was conscious of it.

She had a soft voice, and very gentle manners, and to Dennis she chatted away so briskly that I wondered what she could have found to talk about, till I discovered from what Dennis said to Alister afterwards, that the subject of her conversation was Alfonso's professional prospects.
"Look here, Alister dear," said Dennis; "don't be bothering yourself whether she employs your aunt's dressmaker or no, but when you're about half-way up that ladder of success that I'll never be climbing (or I'd do it myself), say a good word for Alfonso to some of these Scotch captains with big ships, that want a steward and stewardess.

That's what she's got her eye on for Alfonso, and Alfonso has been a good friend to us." "I'll mind," said Alister.

And he did.