During this discourse, Henrietta was in the utmost confusion, dreading lest the grossness of her mother should again send off Cecilia in anger; but Cecilia, who perceived her uneasiness, and who was more charmed with her character than ever, from the simplicity of her sincerity, determined to save her that pain, by quietly hearing her harangue, and then quietly departing; though she was much provoked to find from the complaining hints every instant thrown out, that Mrs Belfield was still internally convinced her son's obstinate bashfulness was the only obstacle to his chusing whom he pleased; and that though she no longer dared speak her opinion with openness, she was fully persuaded Cecilia was at his service. “And for that reason,” continued Mrs Belfield, “to be sure any lady that knew her own true advantage, could do nothing better than to take the recommendation of a mother, who must naturally know more of her own children's disposition than can be expected from a stranger; and as to such a son as mine, perhaps there a'n't two such in the world, for he's had a gentleman's education, and turn him which way he will, he'll see never a handsomer person than his own; though, poor dear love, he was always of the thinnest. But the misfortunes he's had to struggle with would make nobody fatter.” Here she was interrupted, and Cecilia not a little surprised, by the entrance of Mr Hobson and Mr Simkins. “Ladies,” cried Mr Hobson, whom she soon found was Mrs Belfield's landlord; “I would not go up stairs without just stopping to let you know a little how the world goes.” Then perceiving and recollecting Cecilia, he exclaimed “I am proud to see you again, ma'am,--Miss, I believe I should say, for I take it you are too young a lady to be entered into matrimony yet.” “Matrimony?” cried Mr Simkins, “no, to be sure, Mr Hobson, how can you be so out of the way? the young lady looks more like to a Miss from a boarding-school, if I might take the liberty for to say so.” “Ay, more's the pity,” cried Mrs Belfield, “for as to young ladies waiting and waiting, I don't see the great good of it; especially if a proper match offers; for as to a good husband, I think no lady should be above accepting him, if he's modest and well-behaved, and has been brought up with a genteel education.” “Why as to that, ma'am,” said Mr Simkins, “it's another guess matter, for as to the lady's having a proper spouse, if I may be so free, I think as it's no bad thing.” Cecilia now, taking Henrietta's hand, was wishing her good morning; but hearing Mr Hobson say he was just come from Portman-square, her curiosity was excited, and she stayed a little longer.