W. Somerset Maugham

“ She has a delightful enthusiasm for every form of art. Beauty really means as much to her as bread and butter to the more soberly-minded. And she takes a passionate interest in the variety of life.”
“It is right that Margaret should care for beauty, since there is beauty in every inch of her,” answered Arthur. ”

“ Porhoët had been making listless patterns with his stick upon the gravel, and now, with that charming smile of his, turned to Arthur.
“I never cease to be astonished at the unexpectedness of human nature,” he remarked. “It is really very surprising that a man like you should fall so deeply in love with a girl like Margaret Dauncey.”
Arthur made no reply, and Dr. Porhoët, fearing that his words might offend, hastened to explain.
“You know as well as I do that I think her a very charming young person. She has beauty and grace and sympathy. ”

“ He observed with satisfaction the pride which Arthur took in his calling and the determination, backed by confidence and talent, to become a master of his art. Dr. Porhoët knew that a diversity of interests, though it adds charm to a man’s personality, tends to weaken him. To excel one’s fellows it is needful to be circumscribed. He did not regret, therefore, that Arthur in many ways was narrow. ”