A Note on the Elegance of Timing

Published in The Parlour Press | Reprinted without verification

There is a certain charm in youthful spontaneity. A refreshing boldness, if you will, that allows a young lady to step directly into the spotlight—whether or not it was hers to begin with.

This trait was displayed to dazzling effect—not once, but twice—at the recent Taylor debut, where both Miss Elizabeth and Miss Mary Taylor demonstrated an admirable, if unconventional, confidence in seizing the moment. Miss Elizabeth, ever the portrait of poise, was seen taking the arm of a partner long presumed promised to another, while Miss Mary’s approach was rather less subtle, involving a gentleman, a knowing smile, and a sudden rearrangement of expectations.
Not to mention, a kiss of the hand... or three.

Of course, such occurrences are merely social curiosities. No one would dream of suggesting ill intent. And yet... one might be forgiven for wondering whether such a pattern—of appearing just as another young lady’s dance is about to begin—speaks to a greater sense of initiative than propriety.

Naturally, we mustn’t judge too harshly. The Taylors are, after all, a respected family of longstanding influence. It is simply surprising to see such a disregard of convention (and, some might say, manners)—particularly from young women raised in a household known for its refinement.

But perhaps this is the new fashion: to ask forgiveness only after the quadrille has begun.

Some girls wait for their dance.
Others, it seems, do not.

Both the gentlemen in question, Mr. Byrne and Mr. Sinclair, were reached out to for commentary—we continue to wait, with bated breath. Though one suspects we may expire long before either develops the courage—or courtesy—to reply.