Their subjects in general were such as belong to an opening acquaintance. On his side were the inquiries⁠—“Was she a horsewoman?⁠—Pleasant rides?⁠—Pleasant walks?⁠—Had they a large neighbourhood?⁠—Highbury, perhaps, afforded society enough?⁠—There were several very pretty houses in and about it.⁠—Balls⁠—had they balls?⁠—Was it a musical society?”