"There is in it some
self-righteousness, a good deal of pretended horror at her conduct,
but very little real virtuous indignation. It is my opinion that
eight out of ten of her old fashionable friends would be just as
intimate with her as ever, though they knew all about the affair at
Saratoga, if they only were in the secret. It is in order to stand
well with the world that they lift their hands in pretended holy
horror."
"We cannot expect people to act from any higher principles than they
possess," said I; "and it is something gained to good morals, when
even those who are corrupt in heart affect to be shocked at
departures from virtue in their friends."
"Yes, I can see that. Still, when I look beneath the surface, I feel
that, so far as the motives are concerned, a wrong has been done;
and my soul stirs with a feeling of pity towards Mrs. Dewey, and
indignation against her heartless friends. Do you know, dear, that
since I met her this morning, I have had serious thoughts of calling
upon her?"
"You!"
Constance gave me one of her placid smiles in answer to my surprised
ejaculation.
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