With England, where she had often dwelt, she was thoroughly familiar, and for Isabel's benefit threw a great deal of light upon the customs of the country and the character of the people, who "after all," as she was fond of saying, were the most convenient in the world to live with.
"You mustn't think it strange her remaining here at such a time as this, when Mr.Touchett's passing away," that gentleman's wife remarked to her niece.

"She is incapable of a mistake; she's the most tactful woman I know.

It's a favour to me that she stays; she's putting off a lot of visits at great houses," said Mrs.Touchett, who never forgot that when she herself was in England her social value sank two or three degrees in the scale.

"She has her pick of places; she's not in want of a shelter.
But I've asked her to put in this time because I wish you to know her.

I think it will be a good thing for you.