CHAPTER XVII.
Mrs.Jessop's drawing-room, ruddy with fire-light, glittering with delicate wax candle-light; a few women in pale-coloured gauzy dresses, a few men, sublime in blue coats, gold buttons, yellow waistcoats, and smiles--this was all I noticed of the scene, which was quite a novel scene to me.
The doctor's wife had introduced us formally to all her guests, as the custom then was, especially in these small cosy supper-parties.

How they greeted us I do not now remember; no doubt, with a kind of well-bred formal surprise; but society was generally formal then.

My chief recollection is of Mrs.Jessop's saying pointedly and aloud, though with a smile playing under the corners of her good little mouth: "Mr.Halifax, it is kind of you to come; Lady Caroline Brithwood will be delighted.

She longs to make your acquaintance." After that everybody began to talk with extraordinary civility to Mr.
Halifax.
For John, he soon took his place among them, with that modest self-possession which best becomes youth.

Society's dangerous waters accordingly became smooth to him, as to a good swimmer who knows his own strength, trusts it, and struggles not.
"Mr.Brithwood and Lady Caroline will be late," I overheard the hostess say.