Ok, I'm feeling dense here. I feel like I'm not getting this conversation and would love to have someone explain it to me so I can be comfortable again. :-}

"What beautiful hyacinths! I have just learnt to love a hyacinth."

"And how might you learn? By accident or argument?"

"Your sister taught me; I cannot tell how. Mrs. Allen used to take pains, year after year, to make me like them; but I never could, till I saw them the other day in Milsom Street; I am naturally indifferent about flowers."

"But now you love a hyacinth. So much the better. You have gained a new source of enjoyment, and it is well to have as many holds upon happiness as possible. ... I am pleased that you have learnt to love a hyacinth. The mere habit of learning to love is the thing; and a teachableness of disposition in a young lady is a great blessing. Has my sister a pleasant mode of instruction?"

Catherine was saved the embarrassment of attempting an answer by the entrance of the general...

Ok, so... does Catherine now like them because now she associates them with Milsom St (the Tilney's address in Bath)? How did Eleanor teach Catherine to love them? And why is she embarrassed at Henry's inquiry?