VI
Claude to Eustace
Which of three Misses Trevellyn it is that Vernon shall marryIs not a thing to be known; for our friend is one of those naturesWhich have their perfect delight in the general tender-domestic,So that he trifles with Mary’s shawl, ties Susan’s bonnet,Dances with all, but at home is most, they say, with Georgina,Who is, however, TOO silly in my apprehension for Vernon.I, as before when I wrote, continue to see them a little;Not that I like them much or care a bajocco for Vernon,But I am slow at Italian, have not many English acquaintance,And I am asked, in short, and am not good at excuses.Middle-class people these, bankers very likely, not whollyPure of the taint of the shop; will at table d’hote and restaurantHave their shilling’s worth, their penny’s pennyworth even:Neither man’s aristocracy this, nor God’s, God knoweth!Yet they are fairly descended, they give you to know, well connected;Doubtless somewhere in some neighbourhood have, and are careful to keep, someThreadbare-genteel relations, who in their turn are enchantedGrandly among county people to introduce at assembliesTo the unpennied cadets our cousins with excellent fortunes.Neither man’s aristocracy this, nor God’s, God knoweth!