The dances of the better classes of Spaniards in private life are much the same as in other parts of Europe, nor is either sex particularly distinguished by grace in this amusement, to which, however, both are much addicted. It is not, however, yet thought to be a proof of _bon ton_ to dance as badly as possible, and with the greatest appearance of _bore_, that appanage of the so-called _gay_ world. These dances, as everything national is excluded, are without a particle of interest to any one except the performers. An extempore ball, which might be called a _carpet_-dance, if there were any, forms the common conclusion of a winter’s _tertulia_, or social meetings, at which no great attention is paid either to music, costume, or Mr. Gunter. Here English country dances, French quadrilles, and German waltzes are the order of the night; everything Spanish being excluded, except the _plentiful want_ of good fiddling, lighting, dressing, and eating, which never distresses the company, for the frugal, temperate, and easily-pleased Spaniard enters with schoolboy heart and soul into the reality of any holiday, which being joy sufficient of itself lacks no artificial enhancement. Dancing at all is a novelty among Spanish ladies, which was introduced with the Bourbons. As among the Romans and Moors, it was before thought undignified. Performers were hired to amuse the inmates of the Christian hareem; to mix and change hands with men was not to be thought of for an instant; and to this day few Spanish women shake hands with men--the shock is too electrical; they only give them with their hearts, and for good. [Sidenote: MORRIS DANCES.]