"What has been the matter? You were in good spirits enough when you wrote to me."
"Oh, nothing in particular. The world began to look seedy--a sort of cabbage-garden with all the cabbages cut. A malady of genius, you may be sure," said Hans, creasing his face into a smile; "and, in fact, I was tired of being virtuous without reward, especially in this hot London weather."
"Nothing else? No real vexation?" said Deronda.
Hans shook his head.
"I came to tell you of my own affairs, but I can't do it with a good grace if you are to hide yours."

"What has been the matter? You were in good spirits enough when you wrote to me."
"Oh, nothing in particular. The world began to look seedy - a sort of cabbage-garden with all the cabbages cut. A malady of genius, you may be sure," said Hans, creasing his face into a smile.
"Nothing else?" said Deronda. "I came to tell you of my own affairs, but I can't do it with a good grace if you hide yours."
