To-night nearly every one present stole gradually into the circle round her; men and women alike charmed by the fascination of her ripe beauty, her lively manner, her exquisite smile and laugh.
I wondered what John thought of Lady Caroline Brithwood.

She could not easily see him, even though her acute glance seemed to take in everything and everybody in the room.

But on her entrance John had drawn back a little, and our half-dozen of fellow-guests, who had been conversing with him, crept shyly out of his way; as if, now the visible reality appeared, they were aghast at the great gulf that lay between John Halifax the tanner and the Brithwoods of the Mythe.

A few even looked askance at our hostess, as though some terrible judgment must fall upon poor ignorant Mrs.Jessop, who had dared to amalgamate such opposite ranks.
So it came to pass, that while everybody gathered round the Brithwoods John and I stood alone, and half concealed by the window.
Very soon I heard Lady Caroline's loud whisper; "Mrs.Jessop, my good friend, one moment.

Where is your 'jeune heros,' 'l'homme du peuple ?' I do not see him.