In George Eliot's "Daniel Deronda," the quote suggests that vanity struggles to find comfort when faced with indifference, just as tenderness feels uncomfortable when unable to reciprocate love. This highlights the emotional discomfort that arises from unfulfilled desires and feelings.
The interplay of these feelings emphasizes the challenges individuals face in relationships. While vanity often seeks attention and affirmation, it feels uneasy when met with indifference. Conversely, those filled with tender feelings may find themselves in anguish when their love is unreturned.