Mrs. Melbourne was fully convinced of the truth of this observation; and from her daughter's earliest childhood had so blended, in her conduct towards her, the characters of parent and friend, that those delightful associations, too often irreconcileably divided, formed but one idea in Matilda's mind. In the retired life which choice and necessity conspired to make her lead, she felt the inestimable advantage of so amiable and enlightened a companion. There was no point in which Mrs. Melbourne differed from her sufficiently to disturb the intimate union and confidence that marked their little social / circle. Conformity of character is not absolutely necessary to friendship; though it is difficult for it to subsist under a perfect opposition of taste and sentiment: a degree of diversity only adds poignancy to its charms. In conversation Matilda had the most captivating flow of language, where any subject of feeling was discussed – most of the éloquence du cœur. Mrs. Melbourne had perhaps more liveliness of remark, and brilliancy of imagination. Among the arts, drawing was that in which Mrs. Melbourne most excelled. Miss Melbourne, though she understood, and had practiced it with success, still gave the preference to music. Yet in the most unguarded moment of conversation, of sportive contest, or unbounded confidence, the manner of Matilda never had, at any time, passed those limits of deference, which no freedom should ever tempt a child, when addressing a parent, to overstep. In her respectful familiarity there was no assumption of equality, nothing that could for a moment appear, to the most superficial observer, to resemble the manner suited to a companion of her own age, welcome and becoming, when employed towards a friend; towards an Arbella.