Chapter 34Barton Park was about half a mile from the cottage. The ladies had passed it on their way through the valley, but at home it was protected from their view by the promontory of a hill. The house was big and nice; and the Mideltowns lived in a style of hospitality and elegance in equal measure. The former was for Sir John's satisfaction, the latter for that of his lady. They were hardly ever without some friends who lived with them in the house, and they kept company of all kinds more than any other family in the neighborhood. Fortunately, it was necessary for both of them; for no matter how different they were in temperament and outward behavior, they closely resembled each other in that complete lack of talent and taste that limited their occupations, which had nothing to do with
