Oui,” the lady said in a slightly dazed voice, “but I…
““Oui,” the lady said in a slightly dazed voice, “but I cannot give you the emerald silk. That has already been selected by Lady Margaret Mitcham and promised to her.” Ian’s expression took on a look of surprised displeasure. “I’m surprised you allowed her to choose it, madame. It will make her complexion look sallow. Tell her I said so.” He turned and left the shop without the slightest idea of who Lady Margaret Mitcham was. Behind him an assistant came to lift the shimmering emerald silk and take it back to the seamstresses. “ Non, ” the modiste said, her appreciate gaze on the tall, broad-shouldered man who was bounding into his carriage. “It is to be used for someone else.” “But Lady Mitcham chose it.” With a last wistful glance at the handsome man who obviously appreciated exquisite cloth, she dismissed her assistant’s objection. “Lord Mitcham is an old man with bad eyes; he cannot appreciate the gown I can make from this cloth.” “But what shall I tell Lady Mitcham?” the harassed assistant implored. “Tell her,” her mistress said wryly, “that Monsieur Thornton-no, Lord Kensington-said it would make her complexion sallow.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Manipulation of perceived beauty can be used to influence decisions and control outcomes.
In simple terms: People use appearance to sway choices.
Key Takeaway
Beware of hidden motives behind compliments.
Themes
deception
power dynamics
appearance
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
narrative
dialogue
When to use this quote
- fashion industry
- courtship negotiations
- business deals
- political persuasion
Key Concepts
social influence
manipulation
Questions to Reflect On
- What motives lie behind flattering remarks?
- How can you discern genuine advice from strategic flattery?
A Different Perspective
The speaker’s claim may be a pretext for personal gain.