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diff --git a/old/13314.txt b/old/13314.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..97dca16 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/13314.txt @@ -0,0 +1,6551 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Barford Abbey, by Susannah Minific Gunning + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Barford Abbey + +Author: Susannah Minific Gunning + +Release Date: August 28, 2004 [EBook #13314] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BARFORD ABBEY *** + + + + +This eBook was produced by Jonathan Ingram, Josephine Paolucci and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + + + + + + +BARFORD ABBEY, + + +A NOVEL: + +IN A + +SERIES of LETTERS. + +IN TWO VOLUMES. + + +VOL. I. + +LONDON: + +Printed for T. CADELL, (Successor to Mr. MILLAR) in the Strand; and J. +PAYNE, in Pasternoster-Row. + +MDCCLXVIII. + + + + +BARFORD ABBEY. + + + +LETTER I. + +Lady MARY SUTTON, at the German Spaw, to Miss WARLEY, in England. + + +How distressing, how heart-rending, is my dear Fanny's mournful +detail!--It lies before me; I weep over it!--I weep not for the departed +saint: no; it is for you, myself, for all who have experienced her +god-like virtues!--Was she not an honour to her sex? Did she not merit +rewards too great for this world to bestow?--Could the world repay her +innocence, her piety, her resignation? Wipe away, my best love, the mark +of sorrow from your cheek. Perhaps she may be permitted to look down: if +so, will she smile on those that grieve at her entering into the +fullness of joy?--Here a sudden death cannot be called dreadful. A life +like hers wanted not the admonitions of a sick-bed;--her bosom accounts +always clear, always ready for inspection, day by day were they held up +to the throne of mercy.--Apply those beautiful lines in the Spectator to +her; lines you have so often admir'd.--How silent thy passage; how +private thy journey; how glorious thy end! Many have I known more +famous, some more knowing, not one so innocent.--Hope is a noble support +to the drooping head of sorrow.--Though a deceiver, court her, I counsel +you;--she leads to happiness;--we shall bless her deceptions:--baffling +our enjoyments here, she teaches us to look up where every thing is +permanent, even bliss most exquisite. + +Mr. Whitmore you never knew, otherwise would have wonder'd how his +amiable wife loiter'd so long behind.--Often she has wish'd to be +reunited to him, but ever avoided the subject in your presence. + +Keep not from me her rich bequest:--_rich_ indeed,--her most valuable +treasure.--That I could fold you to my arms!--But hear me at a +distance;--hear me call you my beloved daughter,--and suppose what my +transports will be when I embrace an only child:--yes, you are mine, +till I deliver you up to a superior affection. + +Lay aside, I conjure you, your fears of crossing the sea.--Mr. and Mrs. +Smith intend spending part of this winter at Montpelier: trust yourself +with them; I shall be there to receive you at the Hotel de Spence. + +The season for the Spaw is almost at an end. My physicians forbid my +return to England till next autumn, else I would fly to comfort,--to +console my dearest Fanny,--We shall be happy together in France:--I can +love you the same in all places. + +My banker has orders to remit you three hundred pounds;--but your power +is unlimited; it is impossible to say, my dear, how much I am in your +debt.--I have wrote my housekeeper to get every thing ready for your +reception:--consider her, and all my other servants, as your own.--I +shall be much disappointed if you do not move to the Lodge +immediately.--You shall not,--must not,--continue in a house where every +thing in and about it reminds you of so great a loss.--Miss West, Miss +Gardner, Miss Conway, will, at my request, accompany you thither.--The +Menagerie,--plantations, and other places of amusement, will naturally +draw them out;--you will follow mechanically, and by that means be kept +from indulging melancholy.--Go an-airing every day, unless you intend I +shall find my horses unfit for service:--why have you let them live so +long idle? + +I revere honest Jenkings--he is faithful,--he will assist you with his +advice on all occasions.--Can there be a better resource to fly to, than +a heart governed by principles of honour and humanity? + +Write, my dear, to Mrs. Smith, and let me know if the time is fixed for +their coming over.--Say you will comply with the request my heart is so +much set on;--say you will be one of the party. + +My health and spirits are better:--the latter I support for your +sake;--who else do I live for?--Endeavour to do the same, not only for +me, but _others_, that one day will be as dear to you as you are to + +Your truly affectionate, + +M. SUTTON. + + + + +LETTER II. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +BARFORD ABBEY! _Yes_, my dearest Lady,--I date from Barford Abbey: a +house I little thought ever to have seen, when I have listened hours to +a description of it from Mr. Jenkings.--What are houses,--what palaces, +in competition with _that_ honour, _that_ satisfaction, I received by +your Ladyship's last letter!--The honour all must acknowledge;--the +satisfaction is not on the surface,--_it centers in the heart_.--I feel +too much to express any thing.--One moment an orphan; next the adopted +child of Lady Mary Sutton.--What are titles, except ennobled by virtue! +_That_ only makes a coronet fit graceful on the head;--_that_ only is +the true ornament of greatness. + +Pardon my disobedience.--Can there be a stronger command than your +request?--But, my Lady, I must have died,--my life _must_ have been the +sacrifice, had I gone to the Lodge.--The windows opposite, the windows +of that little mansion where I spent nineteen happy years with my +angelic benefactress,--could it be borne?--Your Ladyship's absence +too;--what an aggravation;--The young ladies you kindly propose for my +companions, though very amiable, could not have shut my eyes, or +deaden'd my other senses. + +Now let me account for being at Barford Abbey.--Was Mr. Jenkings my +father, I think I could not love him more; yet when he press'd me to +return with him to Hampshire, I was doubtful whether to consent, till +your Ladyship's approbation of him was confirmed in so particular a +manner.--His son an only one;--the fine fortune he must possess;--these +were objections not only of _mine_, but, I believe, of my dear, +dear--Oh! my Lady, I cannot yet write her name.--Often has she check'd +Mr. Jenkings, when he has solicited to take me home with him:--her very +looks spoke she had something to fear from such a visit.--She loved +me;--the dear angel loved me with maternal affection, but her partiality +never took place of noble, generous sentiments.--Young people, she has +frequently said, are, by a strict intimacy, endeared to each other. +This, I doubt not, was her motive for keeping me at a distance.--She +well knew my poor expectations were ill suited to his large ones.--I +know what was her opinion, and will steadily adhere to it. + +Edmund, to do him common justice, is a desirable youth:--such a one as I +can admire his good qualities, without another with than to imitate +them.--Monday, the tenth, I took my leave of Hillford Down, and, after a +melancholy journey, arrived Tuesday evening at Mr. Jenkings's.--Nothing +did I enjoy on the road;--in spight of my endeavours, tears stream'd +from my eyes incessantly;--even the fine prospects that courted +attention, pass'd unnotic'd.--My good conductor strove to draw me off +from gloomy subjects, but in vain, till we came within a few miles of +his house; then of a sudden I felt a serenity, which, for some time, has +been a stranger to my breast;--a serenity I cannot account for. + +_Mrs. Jenkings!_--never shall I forget her humanity. She flew to the +chaise the instant it stopp'd, receiv'd me with open arms, and conducted +me to the parlour, pouring out ten thousand welcomes, intermingled with +fond embraces.--She is, I perceive, one of those worthy creatures, who +make it a point to consider their husbands friends as their own; in my +opinion, the highest mark of conjugal happiness. + +Plac'd in a great chair next the fire, every one was busied in something +or other for my refreshment.--One soul,--one voice,--one manner, to be +seen in the father,--mother,--son:--they look not on each other but with +a smile of secret satisfaction. _To me_ their hearts speak the same +expressive language;--their house,--their dress,--their words, plainly +elegant.--Envy never stops at such a dwelling;--nothing there is fit for +her service:--no pomp,--no grandeur,--no ostentation.--I slept sweetly +the whole night;--sweetly!--not one disagreeable idea intruded on my +slumbers. + +Coming down in the morning, I found breakfast on the table, linen white +as snow, a large fire,--every thing that speaks cleanliness, content, +and plenty.--The first thing in a house which attracts my notice is the +fire;--I conclude from that, if the hearts of the inhabitants are warm +or cold.--Our conversation was interesting;--it might have lasted, for +aught I know, till dinner, had it not been interrupted by the entrance +of Sir James and Lady Powis.--I knew Mr. Jenkings was their steward, but +never expected they came to his house with such easy freedom.--We arose +as they entered:--I was surprised to see Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings appear +confused;--in my opinion, their visitors accosted them more like +_equals_ than _dependants_. + +Your Ladyship cannot imagine how greatly I was prepossessed in their +favour even before they spoke.--In their manner was something that +struck me excessively;--few--very few--can express the nameless beauties +of grace,--never to be seen but in a carriage sweetly humble. + +Lady Powis seated herself opposite to me.--We called, said she, +addressing Mr. Jenkings, to inquire what was become of you, fearing your +Oxfordshire friends had stolen you from us;--but you have made up for +your long absence, if this is the young lady, bowing to me, your wife +told us was to return with you.--A politeness so unexpected,--so +deliver'd,--visibly affected me:--I sat silent, listening for the reply +Mr. Jenkings would make. + +Pardon me, my Lady! pardon me, Miss Warley! said the good man,--I am a +stranger to punctilio;--I see my error:--I should have acquainted your +Ladyship before with the name of this dear young Lady; I should have +said she is an honour to her friends.--Need I tell Miss Warley, Sir +James and Lady Powis are present:--I hope the deportment of their +_servant_ has confirmed it;--I hope it has. + +Sir James kindly took his hand, and, turning to me, said, Don't believe +him, Madam, he is not our servant;--he has been our _friend_ forty +years; we flatter ourselves he deems not _that_ servitude. + +Not your _servant!_--not your _dependant!_--not your _servant_, Sir +James!--and was running on when her Ladyship interrupted him. + +Don't make me angry, Jenkings;--don't pain me;--hear the favour I have +to ask, and be my advocate:--it is with Miss Warley I want you to be my +advocate.--Then addressing herself to me, Will you, Madam, give me the +pleasure of your company often at the Abbey?--I mean, will you come +there as if it was your home?--Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings have comforts, I +have not,--at least that I can enjoy.--Here she sigh'd deeply;--so deep, +that I declare it pierced through my heart;--I felt as if turn'd into +stone;--what I suppose I was a true emblem of.--The silent friends that +trickled down my cheeks brought me back from that inanimate state,--and +I found myself in the embraces of Lady Powis, tenderly affectionate, as +when in the arms of Mrs. Whitmore.--Judge not, Madam, said I, from my +present stupidity, that I am so wanting in my head or heart, to be +insensible of this undeserv'd goodness.--With Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings's +permission, I am devoted to your Ladyship's service.--_Our_ approbation! +Miss Warley, return'd the former;--_yes, that_ you have:--her Ladyship +cannot conceive how happy she has made us.--Sir James seconded his Lady +with a warmth perfectly condescending:--no excuse would be taken; I must +spend the next day at the Abbey; their coach was to attend me. + +Our amiable guests did not move till summoned by the dinner-bell, which +is plainly to be heard there.--I thought I should have shed tears to see +them going.--I long'd to walk part of the way, but was afraid to propose +it, lest I should appear presumptuous.--Her Ladyship perceiv'd my +inclinations,--look'd delighted,--and requested my company; on which Mr. +Jenkings offer'd his service to escort me back. + +How was I surpris'd at ascending the hill!--My feet seem'd leading me to +the first garden--the sweet abode of innocence!--Ten thousand beauties +broke on my sight;--ten thousand pleasures, before unknown, danced +through my heart.--Behold me on the summit;--behold me full of +surprise,--full of admiration!--How enchanting the park! how clear the +river that winds through it!--What taste,--what elegance, in the +plantations!--How charmingly are Nature's beauties rang'd by art!--The +trees,--the shrubs,--the flowers,--hold up their heads, as if proud of +the spot they grow on!--Then the noble old structure,--the magnificent +mansion of this ancient family, how does it fire the beholder with +veneration and delight! The very walls seem'd to speak; at least there +was something that inform'd _me_, native dignity, and virtues +hereditary, dwelt within them. + +The sight of a chaise and four, standing at the entrance, hurried me +from the charming pair of this paradise, after many good days ecchoed +to me, and thanks respectful return'd them by the same messenger. + +Mr. Jenkings, in our return, entertain'd me with an account of the +family for a century past. A few foibles excepted in the character of +Sir James, I find he possesses all the good qualities of his ancestors. +Nothing could be more pleasing than the encomiums bestow'd on Lady +Powis; but she is not exempt from trouble: the _good_ and the _bad_ the +_great_ and the _little_, at some time or other, feel Misfortune's +touch. Happy such a rod hangs over us! Were we to glide on smoothly, our +affections would be fixed here, and here only. + +I could love Lady Powis with a warmth not to be express'd;--but--forgive +me, my dear lady--I pine to know why _your_ intimacy was +interrupted.--Of _Lady Mary's_ steadiness and integrity I am +convinc'd;--of _Lady Powis_ I have had only a transitory view.--Heaven +forbid she should be like such people as from my heart I despise, whose +regards are agueish! Appearances promise the reverse;--but what is +appearance? For the generality a mere cheat, a gaudy curtain. + +Pardon me, dear Lady Powis--I am distress'd,--I am perplex'd; but I do +not think ill of you;--indeed I cannot,--unless I find--_No_, I cannot +find it neither;--something tells me _Lady Mary_, my dear honour'd Lady +Mary, will acquit you. + +We were receiv'd by Mrs. Jenkings, at our return, with a chearful +countenance, and conducted to the dining-parlour, where, during our +comfortable, meal, nothing was talk'd of but Sir James and Lady +Powis:--the kind notice taken of your Fanny mentioned with transport. + +Thus honour'd,--thus belov'd,--dare I repine?--Why look on past +enjoyments with such a wistful eye!--Mrs. Whitmore, my dear maternal +Mrs. Whitmore, cannot be recall'd!--Strange perversenss!--why let that +which would give me pleasure fleet away!--why pursue that which I cannot +overtake!--No gratitude to heaven!--Gratitude to you, my dearest Lady, +shall conquer this perverseness;--even now my heart overflows like a +swoln river. + +Good night, good night, dear Madam; I am going to repose on the very bed +where, for many years, rested the most deserving of men!--The +housekeeper has been relating many of his virtues;--so many, that I long +to see him, _though only in a dream_. + +Was it not before Mr. Powis went abroad, that your ladyship visited at +the Abbey?--Yet, if so, I think I should have heard you mention +him.--Merit like his could never pass unnotic'd in a breast so +similar--Here I drop my pen, lest I grow impertinent.--Once again, good +night,--my more than parent:--to-morrow, at an early hour, I will begin +the recital to your Ladyship of this day's transactions--I go to implore +every blessing on your head, the only return that can be offer'd by + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER III. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON, in continuation. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +I think I have told your Ladyship, I was to be honour'd with the coach +to convey me to the Abbey.--About half an hour after one it arriv'd, +when a card was deliver'd me from Lady Powis, to desire my friends would +not be uneasy, if I did not return early in the evening, as she hop'd +for an agreeable party at whist, Lord Darcey being at the Abbey. + +Mrs. Jenkings informed me, his Lordship was a ward of Sir James's just +of age;--his estate genteel, not large;--his education liberal,--his +person fine,--his temper remarkably good.--Sir James, said she, is for +ever preaching lessons to him, that he must marry _prudently_;--which +is, that he must never marry without an immense fortune.--Ah! Miss +Warley, this same love of money has serv'd to make poor Lady Powis very +unhappy. Sir James's greatest fault is covetousness;--but who is without +fault?--Lord Darcey was a lovely youth, continued she, when he went +abroad; I long to see if he is alter'd by travelling.--Edmund and his +Lordship were school-fellows:--how my son will be overjoy'd to hear he +is at the Abbey!--I detain you, Miss Warley, or could talk for ever of +Lord Darcey! Do go, my dear, the family will expect you.--Promise, said +I, taking her hand,--_promise_ you will not sit up late on my +account.--She answer'd nothing, but pressing me to her bosom, seem'd to +tell me her heart was full of affection. + +The old coachman, as we drove up the lawn, eyed me attentively, saying +to the footman, _It will be so, John, you may depend upon it_.--John +answer'd only by a shrug.--What either meant, I shall not pretend to +divine.--As I came near the house, I met Mr. Jenkings almost out of +breath, and, pulling the string, he came to the coach-side. I was +hurrying home, my dear young Lady, said he, to--to--to--Now faith I'm +afraid you'll be angry. + +Angry with you, Sir!--angry with you, Mr. Jenkings!--is it possible! + +Then, to be plain, Madam, I was hurrying home, to request you would wear +no cap.--Never shall I forget how pretty you look'd, when I saw you +without one!--Of all things, I would _this day_ wish you might look your +best. + +To satisfy him I had taken some little pains in honour to the family, I +let back the hood of my cloke.--He examin'd the manner in which my hair +was dress'd, and smiled his approbation;--which _smile_, though only +seen in the eyes, was more expressive than a contraction of all the +other features.--Wishing me a happy day, he bid the coachman drive on. + +Coming within sight of the Abbey, my heart beat as if breaking from +confinement.--I was oblig'd to call it to a severe trial,--to ask, Why +this insurrection,--whence these tumults?--My monitor reply'd, Beware of +self-sufficiency,--beware of its mortifying consequences.-- + +How seasonable this warning against the worst of foes!--a foe which I +too much fear was stealing on me imperceptibly,--else why did I not +before feel those sensations?--Could I receive greater honour than has +been conferr'd on me by the noblest mind on earth!--by _Lady +Mary?_--Could I behold greater splendor than _Lady Mary_ is possess'd +of!--What affection in another can I ever hope for like _Lady +Mary's!_--Thus was I arguing with myself, when the coach-door open'd, +and a servant conducted me to the drawing-room,--where, I was receiv'd +by Sir James and Lady Powis with an air of polite tenderness;--a kind of +unreserve, that not only supports the timid mind, but dignifies every +word,--every action,--and gives to education and address their highest +polish. + +Lord Darcey was sitting in the window, a book in his hand;--he came +forward as Sir James introduc'd me, who said, _Now_, my Lord, the +company of _this_ young Lady will make your Lordship's time pass more +agreeably, than it could have done in the conversation of two old +people.--My spirits were flutter'd; I really don't recollect his reply; +only that it shew'd him master of the great art, to make every one +pleas'd with themselves. + +Shall I tell you, my dear Lady, what are my thoughts of _this_ Lord +Darcey?--To confess then, though his person is amazingly elegant, his +manners are still more engaging.--This I look upon to be the natural +consequence of a mind illumin'd with uncommon understanding, sweetness, +and refinement. + +A short time before dinner the chaplain made his appearance,--a +venerable old man, with hair white as snow:--what renders his figure to +be completely venerated, is the loss of sight.--Her Ladyship rising from +her seat, led me towards him: Mr. Watson, said she, I am going to +introduce a lady whose _brightest charms_ will soon be visible to +you.--The best man in the world! whisper'd she, putting my hand in +his;--which hand I could not avoid putting to my lips.--_Thank_ you, +Miss Warley, said her Ladyship, _we all_ revere this gentleman.--Mr. +Watson was affected, some drops stole from their dark prisons, and he +bless'd me as if I had been his daughter:--my pleasure was +exquisite,--it seem'd as if I had receiv'd the benediction of an angel. + +Our subjects turn'd more on the celestial than the terrestrial, till +dinner was serv'd up,--when I found that good _knight_ which has been so +long banish'd to the side-board, replac'd in his original station. + +How different _this table_ from many others! where genteel sprightly +conversations are shut out; _where_ such as cannot feast their senses on +the genius of a _cook_, must rise unsatisfied. + +A similitude of manners between your _Ladyship_ and _Lady Powis_, +particularly in doing the honours of the table, struck me so much, that +I once or twice call'd her _Lady Mary_.--Pray, Miss Warley, ask'd she, +who is this Lady Mary? + +What could occasion her confusion!--what could occasion the confusion of +Sir James!--Never did I see any thing equal it, when I said it was Lady +Mary Sutton!--The significant looks that were interchang'd, spoke some +mystery;--a mystery it would be presumption in me to dive after. Her +Ladyship made no reply,--Sir James was eager to vary the subject,--and +the conversation became general. + +Though autumn is far advanc'd, every thing here wears the face of +spring.--The afternoon being remarkably fine Lady Powis, Lord Darcey, +and myself, strolled out amongst the sweets.--We walk'd a considerable +time; his Lordship was all gaiety, talk'd with raptures of the +improvements; declar'd every thing he had seen abroad fell short of this +delightful spot; and _now_, my dear Lady Powis, added he, with an air of +gallantry, I can see _nothing_ wanting. + +_Nothing_ wanting! return'd her Ladyship, sighing:--Ah! my Lord, _you_ +are not a parent!--you feel nothing of a parent's woe!--_you_ do not +hourly regret the absence of a beloved and only son! Don't look serious, +my dear Lord, seeing him somewhat abash'd, you have hitherto tenderly +loved me.--Perhaps I had a mind to augment your affection, by bringing +to your recollection I was not happy.--His Lordship made no reply, but, +taking her hand, lifted it respectfully to his lips. + +Mr. Jenkings is this moment coming up the lawn. I see him from +window;--excuse me, my dear Lady, whilst I step to ask him how he does. + +I have been accounting to Mr. Jenkings for not coming home last night. +Good man! every mark of favour I receive, enlightens _his +countenance_.--The reasons I have given him, I shall now proceed to give +your Ladyship. + +I said we were walking;--I have said the conversation was +interesting;--but I have not said it was interrupted by Sir James and +Mr. Watson, who join'd us just as Lord Darcey had quitted the hand of +Lady Powis.--A visit was propos'd to the Dairy-house, which is about a +mile from the Abbey.--In our way thither, I was full of curiosity, full +of inquiries about the neighbourhood, and whose seats _such_ and _such_ +were, that enrich'd adjacent hills?--The neighbourhood, reply'd her +Ladyship, is in general polite and hospitable.--_Yes_, said Sir James, +and more smart young men, _Miss Warley_, than are to be met with in +_every_ county.--Yonder, continued he, live Mr. and Mrs. Finch,--very +rich,--very prudent, and very worthy;--they have one son, a discreet +lad, who seems to promise he will inherit their good qualities. + +_That_ which you see so surrounded with woods, is Sir Thomas Slater's, a +_batchelor_ of fifty-five; and, let me tell you, fair Lady, the pursuit +of _every_ girl in the neighbourhood;--his estate a clear nine thousand +a-year, and--Hold, hold, interrupted Lord Darcey, in compassion to _us_ +young fellows, say no more of this _redoubtable_ batchelor. + +Well then, continued Sir James, since my Lord _will_ have it so,--let me +draw your eye, Miss Warley, from Sir Thomas Slater's, and fix it on Lord +Allen's: Observe the situation!--Nothing can be more beautiful, the +mind of its owner excepted. + +_That_ house on the left is Mr. Winter's.--Chance!--_Strange +chance!_--has just put him in possession of an immense fortune, with +which he is going to purchase a _coronet_ for his daughter.--The fellow +does not know what to do with his _money_, and has at last found an +_ape_ of quality, that will take _it_ off his hands. + +In this manner was Sir James characterising his neighbours, when a +sudden and violent storm descended.--Half a mile from the _Dairy-house_, +the rain fell in such torrents, that we were wet through, before a +friendly oak offer'd us its shelter.--Never shall I forget my own or +Lord Darcey's figure: he stripp'd himself of his coat, and would have +thrown it over Lady Powis. Her Ladyship absolutely refusing it, her +cloak being thick, mine the reverse, he forc'd it upon me. Sir James a +assisting to put my arms into the sleeves.--Nor was I yet enough of the +amazon:--they even compell'd me to exchange my hat for his, lapping it, +about my ears.--What a strange _metamorphose!_--I cannot think of it +without laughing!--To complete the scene, no exchange could be made, +till we reach'd the Abbey.--In this droll situation, we waited for the +coach; and getting, in, streaming from head to toe, it more resembled a +bathing machine, than any other vehicle. + +A gentleman, who, after a chace of ten hours, had taken shelter under +the roof of Sir James, was, at our return, stamping up and down, the +vestibule, disappointed both in his sport and dinner, shew'd an aspect +cloudy as the heavens.--My mortification was scarce supportable, when I +heard him roar out, in a voice like thunder, _What the devil have we +here?_--I sprang to the top of the stairs in a moment,--there stopp'd to +fetch breath; and again the same person, who had so genteelly accosted +me, said to Lord Darcey,--_Great_ improvements, upon my soul!--_You_ are +return'd a mighty pretty _Miss_.--What, is _this_ the newest dress at +Turin?--I heard no more; her Ladyship's woman came and shew'd me to an +apartment,--bringing from her Lady's wardrobe a chints negligee, and a +suit of flower'd muslin; in which I was soon equipp'd. + +Lady Powis sent to desire I would come to her dressing room; and, +embracing me as I entered, said, with, an air of charming freedom, If +you are not hurt, my dear, by our little excursion, I shall be quite in +spirits this evening. + +I am only hurt by your Ladyship's goodness. Indeed, return'd she, I have +not a close heart, but no one ever found so quick a passage to it as +yourself.--Oh! Lady Mary, _this_ is surely a _heart_ like yours!--A +_heart_ like Mrs. Whitmore's!--Was you not surpris'd, _my dear_, +continued her Ladyship, to be so accosted by the gentleman below?--Take +no notice of what is said by Mr. Morgan.--that is his name;--he means +well, and never goes into any person's house, but where his oddities are +indulg'd.--I am particularly civil to him; he was an old school-fellow +of Sir James's, one whose purse was always open to him.--Sir James, Miss +Warley, was rather addicted to extravagance in the beginning of his +life;--_that_, in some respects, is revers'd latterly.--I have been a +sufferer,--yet is he a tender generous husband. One day you shall know +more.--I _had_ a son, Miss Warley--Here Sir James interrupted her.--I +come to tell you, said he, that Lord Darcey and myself are impatient for +our tea. + +O fie! Sir James, return'd Lady Powis, talk of impatience before an +unmarried Lady!--If you go on at this rate, you will frighten her from +any connection with your sex.--Not at all,--not at all, said Sir James; +you take us for better for worse.--See there, Miss Warley smiles.--I +warrant she does not think my _impatience_ unseasonable.--I was going to +reply, but effectually stopped by her Ladyship, who said, taking my +hand, Come, my dear, let us go down.--I am fond of finding excuses for +Sir James; we will suppose it was not he who was impatient:--we will +suppose the _impatience_ to be Lord Darcey's. + +Whilst regaling ourselves at the tea table, Mr. Morgan was in the +dining-parlour, brightening up his features by the assitance of the cook +and butler.--We were congratulating each other on the difference of our +present and late situation, declaring there was nothing to regret, when +Mr. Morgan enter'd.--Regret! cry'd he,--what do you regret?--Not, I +hope, that I have made a good dinner on a cold sirloin and pickled +oysters?--Indeed I do, said Lady Powis:--Had I thought you so poor a +caterer, I should have taken the office on myself.--Faith then, reply'd +he, you might have eat it yourself:--Forty years, my good Lady, I have +made this house my home, and did I ever suffer you to direct _what_, or +_when_, I should eat?-- + +Sir James laugh'd aloud; so did her Ladyship:--I was inclin'd to do the +same,--but afraid what next he would say;--However, this caution did not +screen me from particular notice. + +What the duce have I here! said he, taking one of my hands,--a snow-ball +by the colour, and feeling? and down he dropp'd it by the side of Lord +Darcey's, which rested on the table. + +I was never more confounded. + +You are not angry, my pretty Lady, continued he:--we shall know one +another better;--but if you displease me,--I shall thunder.--I keep all +in subjection, except the _muleish kind_, making a low bow to Sir James. +Saying this, he went in pursuit of Mr. Watson.--They soon re-enter'd +together; a card-table was produc'd; and we sat down at it, whilst they +solac'd themselves by a good fire. + +My attention was frequently taken from the cards, to observe how it was +possible such opposites as Mr. Watson and Mr. Morgan cou'd be +entertain'd by one another's conversation.--Never saw I any two +seemingly more happy!--The chearfulness of the former augmented;--the +voice of the latter at least three notes lower.--This has been since +explain'd to me by Lady Powis.--Mr. Morgan, she says, notwithstanding +his rough appearance, is of a nature so compassionate, that, to people +defective in person or fortune, he is the gentlest creature breathing. + +Our party broke up at nine.--I sat half an hour after supper, then +propos'd returning to Mr. Jenkings's.--Lady Powis would not hear me on +this subject--I must stay that night at the Abbey:--venturing out such +weather would hazard my health.--So said Sir James; so said Lord +Darcey.--As for Mr. Morgan, he swore, Was he the former, his horses +should not stir out for fifty pieces, unless, said he, Sir James chooses +to be a fellow-sufferer with Lord Allen, who I have led such a chace +this day, that he was forced to leave poor Snip on the forest.--Saying +which, he threw himself back in the chair, and fell into a sound +sleep.--About eleven I retir'd to my chamber;--a message first being +sent to Mr. Jenkings.--Instead of going immediately to bed, I sat down +and indulg'd myself with the satisfaction of writing to my beloved Lady +Mary.--This morning I got up early to finish my packet; and though I +have spent half an hour with Mr. Jenkings, shall close it before her +Ladyship is stirring. + +Your commands, my dear Lady, are executed.--I have wrote Mrs. Smith; and +as soon as I receive her answer, shall, with a joyful heart, with +impatient fondness, prepare to throw at your Ladyship's feet, + +Your much honour'd, + +and affectionate, + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER IV. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Prepare your ten pieces, George!--Upon my honour, I was at Barford Abbey +a quarter before three, notwithstanding a detention on the road by Lord +Michell and Flecher, driving on Jehu for Bath, in his Lordship's phaeton +and fix.--You have seen them before this,--and, I suppose, know their +errand.--The girl is an egregious fool, that is certain.--I warrant +there are a hundred bets depending.--I ask'd what he intended doing with +her if he succeeded?--_Do_ with her! said his Lordship; why, she is not +more than eighteen; let her go to school: faith, Flecher, that's my +advice.--_Let her go_ to the devil after I am once sure of her, +return'd the lover; and, whipping up the horses; drove away like +lightning. + +Be serious--Answer me one serious question,--Is it not possible,--_very_ +possible, to have a regard, a _friendship_, for an amiable girl, without +endangering her peace or my own?--If I am further involv'd than +_friendship_,--the blame is not mine; it will lie at the door of Sir +James and Lady Powis.--Talk no more of Lady Elizabeth's smile, or Miss +Grevel's hair--Stuff!--meer stuff! nor keep me up after a late evening, +to hear your nonsense of Miss Compton's fine neck and shoulders, or +Fanny Middleton's eyes.--Come here next week, I will insure you a sight +of all those graces in one form. Come, I say, you will be welcome to Sir +James and his Lady as myself.--Miss Warley will smile on you.--What +other inducement can you want?--Don't be too vain of Miss Warley's +smiles; _for know_, she cannot look without them. + +Who is Miss Warley?--What is Miss Warley?--you ask.--To your first +question I can only answer, A visitor at Jenkings's.--To the +second,--She is what has been so much sought after in every age, perfect +harmony of mind and person.--Such a hand, George-- + +Already have I been here eight days:--was I to measure time, I should +call them hours.--My affairs with Sir James will take up longer in +settling than I apprehended.--Come therefore this week or the next, I +charge you.--Come as you hope to see Miss Warley. What do you think Sir +James said to me the other day?--Was Miss Warley a girl of fortune, I +should think her born for you, Darcey.--As that is not the case,--take +care of your heart, my Lord.--She will never attempt to drag you into +scrapes:--your little favourite robin, that us'd to peck from your hand, +has not less guile. + +No! he will never consent;--I must only think of _friendship_. + +Lady Powis doats on this paragon of beauty: scarce within their +walls,--when she was mention'd with such a just profusion of praises, as +fill'd me with impatience.--Lady Powis is a heavenly woman.--You do not +laugh;--many would, for supposing any of that sex _heavenly_ after +fifty.--The coach is this moment going for Miss Warley;--it waits only +for me;--I am often her conductor.--Was _you_ first minister of +state,--I the humble suitor whose bread depended on your favour,--not +one line more, even to express my wants. + + +Twelve o'clock, at night. + +Our fair visitor just gone;--just gone home with Edmund.--What an +officious fool, to take him in the carriage, and prevent myself from a +pleasure I envy him for.--I am not in spirits;--I can write no +more;--perhaps the next post:--but I will promise nothing. + +I am, _&c. &c._ + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER V. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to LORD DARCEY. + +_Bath_. + + +Confound your friendships!--_Friendship_ indeed!--What! up head and ears +in love, and not know it.--So it is necessary for every woman you think +capable of friendship, to have fine eyes, fine hair, a bewitching smile, +and a neck delicately turn'd.--Have not I the highest opinion of my +cousin Dolly's sincerity?--Do I not think her very capable of +_friendship?_--Yet, poor soul, her eyes are planted so deep, it requires +good ones to discover she has any.--Such a hand, George!--Such a hand, +Darcey!--Why, Lady Dorothy too has hands; I am often enough squeez'd by +them:--though hard as a horse's hoof, and the colour of tanned leather, +I hold her capable of _friendship_.--Neck she has none,--smile she has +none! yet need I the determination of another, to tell me whether my +regard for her proceeds from love or _friendship?_--Awake,--Awake, +Darcey,--Awake:--Have you any value for your own peace?--have you any +for that of Miss Warley's? If so, leave Barford Abbey.--Should you +persist in loving her, for love her I know you do?--Should the quiet of +such an amiable woman as you describe be at stake? To deal plainly, I +will come down and propose the thing myself.--No sword,--no pistol. I +mean not for _myself_, but one whose happiness is dear to me as my +_own_. + +Suppose your estate is but two thousand a-year, are you so fond of shew +and equipage, to barter real felicity for baubles?--I am angry,--so +angry, that it would not grieve me to see you leading to the altar an +old hobbling dowager without a tooth.--Be more yourself, + +And I am yours, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER VI + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_, + + +Angry!--You are really angry!--Well, I too am angry with myself.--I do +love Miss Warley;--but why this to you?--Your penetration has already +discover'd it.--Yet, O Molesworth! such insurmountable obstacles:--no +declaration can be made,--at least whilst I continue in this +neighbourhood. + +Sir James would rave at my imprudence.--Lady Powis, whatever are her +sentiments, must give them up to his opinion.--Inevitably I lose the +affection of persons I have sacredly--promised to obey,--sacredly.--Was +not my promise given to a dying father?--Miss Warley has no tye; yet, by +the duty she observes to Sir James and Lady Powis, you would think her +bound by the strongest cords of nature. + +Scarce a moment from her:--at Jenkings's every morning;--on foot if good +weather,--else in the coach for the convenience of bringing her with +me.--I am under no constraint:--Sir James and her Ladyship seem not the +least suspicious: this I much wonder at, in the former particularly. + +In my _tete-a-tetes_ with Miss Warley, what think you are our +subjects?--Chiefly divinity, history, and geography.--Of these studies +she knows more than half the great men who have wrote for ages past.--On +a taste for the two latter I once prided myself.--An eager pursuit for +the former springs up in my mind, whilst conversing with her, like a +plant long hid in the earth, and called out by the appearance of a +summer's sun.--This sun must shine at Faulcon Park;--without it all will +be dreary:--_yet_ how can I draw it thither?--_Edmund_--but why should I +fear _Edmund?_ + +Will you, or will you not, meet your old friend Finch here next +Wednesday?--Be determined in your answer.--I have suspence enough on my +hands to be excused from any on your account.--Sir James thinks it +unkind you have not called on him since I left England;--hasten +therefore to make up matters with the baronet,--Need I say the pleasure +I shall have in shaking you by the hand? + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER VII. + +The Hon. GEORGE MOLESWORTH to Lord DARCEY. + +_Bath_. + + +Wednesday next you shall see me,--positively you shall.--Bridgman will +be of the party. + +I propose an immensity of satisfaction from this visit.--Forbid it, +heaven! Miss Warley's opposite should again give me a meeting at the +Abbey.--After the conversation I am made to expect, how should I be +mortified to have my ears eternally dinn'd with catgut work,--painting +gauze,--weaving fringes,--and finding out enigmas?--Setting a fine +face, Miss Winter is out-done by Fletcher's Nancy.--A-propos, I +yesterday saw that very wise girl step into a chaise and wheel off for +Scotland, begging and praying we would make the best of it to her +mamma.--Not the least hand had I in this affair; but, willing to help +out people in distress, at the entreaties of Lord Michell, I waited on +the old Lady at her lodging. + +I found her in a furious plight,--raving at her servants,--packing up +her cloaths, and reflecting on her relations who had persuaded her to +come to Bath.--When I entered she was kneeling by a huge travelling +trunk, stuffing in a green purse at one corner, which I supposed to be +full of gold. + +Where is Nancy?--riling from the ground, and accosting me with looks of +fury;--Where is Nancy, Mr. Molesworth? + +Really, _Madam_, that is a question I cannot positively answer;--but, to +be sincere, I believe she is on the road to Scotland. + +_Believe!_--So you would have me think you are not one of Fletcher's +clan.--But, tell him from me, running to the trunk after her purse, and +shaking it just at my ear,--_tell him_, he shall never be a penny the +better for this. + +I took my hat, and looked towards the door, as if going. + +Stop, Mr. Molesworth, (her voice somewhat lowered) why in so great a +hurry?--I once thought you my friend. Pray inform me if Nancy was forced +away;--or, if me went willingly. + +You have no right, Madam, after the treatment I have received, to expect +an answer; but justice bids me declare her going off seemed a matter of +choice. + +Poor child!--You was certainly trapann'd (and she put a handkerchief to +her eyes). + +I solemnly protest, Madam, I have seen your daughter but twice since she +came to Bath.--Last night, when coming from the Rooms, I saw her step +into a chaise, followed by Mr. Fletcher.--They beckoned me towards them, +whispered the expedition they were going upon, and requested me to break +the matter to you, and intercede for their pardon.--My visit has not +answered its salutary purpose--I perceive it _has not_. So saying I +turned from her,--knowing, by old acquaintance, how I was to play my +cards, me being one of those kind of spirits which are never quell'd but +by opposition. + +After fetching me from the door, she promised to hear calmly what I had +to say;--and, tho' no orator, I succeeded so well as to gain an +assurance, she would see them at their return from Scotland. + +I left the old Lady in tolerable good humour, and was smiling to myself, +recollecting the bout I had passed, when, who should come towards me but +Lord Michell,--his countenance full-fraught with curiosity. + +Well, George!--dear George!--what success in your embassy?--I long to +know the fate of honest Fletcher.--Is he to loll in a coach and +six?--or, is the coroner's inquest to bring in their verdict Lunacy? + +A sweet alternative!--_As_ your Lordship's assiduity has shewn the +former is the highest pinnacle to which you would wish to lift a +friend, I believe your most sanguine hopes are here answered. + +Is it _so!_--Well, if ever Fletcher offers up a prayer, it ought to be +for you, Molesworth. + +Vastly good, my Lord.--What, before he prays for himself?--_This_ shews +your Lordship's _very_ high notions of gratitude. + +We have high notions of every thing.--Bucks and bloods, as we are +call'd,--you may go to the devil before you will find a set of honester +fellows. + +To the _Devil_, my Lord!--That's true, I believe. + +He was going to reply when the three choice spirits came up, and hurried +him, away to the Tuns. + +A word to _you_, Darcey.--Surely you are never serious in the ridiculous +design.--Not offer yourself to Miss Warley, whilst she continues in that +neighbourhood?--the very spot on which you ought to secure her,--unless +you think all the young fellows who visit at the Abbey are blind, except +yourself.--_Why_, you are jealous _already_;--_jealous_ of +_Edmund_.--Perhaps _even I_ may become one of your tormentors.--If I +like her I shall as certainly tell her _so, as_ that my name is + +MOLESWORTH. + +[Here two Letters are omitted, one from Lady MARY to Miss WARLEY,--and +one from Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY.] + + + + +LETTER VIII. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. + +From Mr. _Jenkings's_. + + +Ah! my dear Lady, how kind,--how inexpressibly kind, to promise I shall +one day know what has put an end to the intimacy between the two Ladies +I _so_ much revere. + +To find your Ladyship has still a high opinion of Lady Powis, has filled +me with pleasure.--Fear of the reverse often threw a damp on my heart, +whilst receiving the most tender caresses.--You bid me love her!--You +say I cannot love her too well!--_This_ is a command my heart springs +forward to obey. + +Unhappy family!--What a loss does it sustain by the absence of Mr. +Powis?--_No_, I can never forgive the Lady who has occasioned this +source of sorrow.--Why is her name concealed?--But what would it benefit +me to come at a knowledge of it? + +Pity Sir James should rather see such a son _great_ than happy.--Six +thousand a year, _yet_ covet a fortune twice as large!--Love of riches +makes strange wreck in the human heart. + +Why did Mr. Powis leave his native country?--The refusal of a Lady with +whom he only sought an union in obedience to his father, could not +_greatly_ affect him.--Was not such an overture _without_ +affection,--_without_ inclination,--a blot in his fair +character?--Certainly it was.--Your Ladyship seems to think Sir James +only to blame.--I dare not have presumed to offer my opinion, had you +not often told me, it betray'd a meanness to hide our real sentiments, +when call'd upon to declare them. + +Lady Powis yesterday obliged me with a sight of several letters from her +son.--_I_ am not mistress of a stile like _his_, or your Ladyship would +have been spar'd numberless tedious moments.--Such extraordinary +deckings are seldom to be met with in common minds. + +I told Lady Powis, last evening, that I should devote this day to my +pen;--so I shall not be sent for;--a favour I am sure to have conferr'd +if I am not at the Abbey soon after breakfast.--Lord Darcey is +frequently my escort.--I am pleased to see that young nobleman regard +Edmund as if of equal rank with himself. + +Heavens! his Lordship is here!--full-dressed, and just alighted from the +coach,--to fetch me, I fear.--I shall know in a moment; Mrs. Jenkings +is coming up. + +Even so.--It vexes me to be thus taken off from my agreeable task;--yet +I cannot excuse myself,--her Ladyship is importunate.--She sends me word +I _must_ come;--that I _must_ return with Lord Darcey.--Mrs. Finch is +accidentally dropp'd in with her son.--I knew the latter was expected to +meet two gentlemen from Bath,--one of them an intimate friend of Lord +Darcey.--Mrs. Finch is an amiable woman;--it is to her Lady Powis wants +to introduce me. + +_Your Servant, my Lord_.--A very genteel way to hasten me +down--impatient, I suppose, to see his friend from Bath.--_Well_, Jenny, +tell his Lordship it will be needless to have the horses taken out.--I +shall be ready in a quarter of an hour.--Adieu, my dear Lady. + + +Eleven o'clock at night. + +Every thing has conspired to make this day more than commonly +agreeable.--It requires the pen of a Littelton to paint the different +graces which shone in conversation.--As no such pen is at hand, will +your Ladyship receive from _mine_ a short description of the company at +the Abbey? + +Mrs. Finch is about seven and forty;--her person plain,--her mind +lovely,--her bosom fraught with happiness.--She dispenses it +promiscuously.--Every smile,--every accent,--conveys it to all around +her.--A countenance engagingly open.--Her purse too, I am told, when +occasions offer, open as her heart.--How largely is she repaid for her +balsamic gifts,--by seeing those virtues early planted in the mind of +her son, spring up and shoot in a climate where a blight is almost +contagious! + +Mr. Finch is the most sedate young man I have ever seen;--but his +sedateness is temper'd with a _sweetness_ inexpressible;--a certain +mildness in the features;--_a mildness_ which, in the countenance of +that great commander I saw at Brandon Lodge, appears like _mercy_ sent +out from the heart to discover the dwelling of _true courage_.--There is +certainly a strong likeness between the Marquis and Lord Darcey;--_so +strong_, that when I first beheld his Lordship I was quite struck with +surprize. + +Mr. Molesworth and Mr. Bridgman, the two gentlemen from Bath, are very +opposite to each other in person and manner; yet both in a different +degree seem to be worthy members of society. + +Mr. Molesworth, a most entertaining companion,--vastly chearful,--smart +at repartee; and, from the character Lord Darcey has given me of him, +very sincere. + +Mr. Bridgman has a good deal the air of a foreigner; attained, I +suppose, by his residence some years at the court of ----, in a public +character.--Very fit he appears for such an +employ.--Sensible,--remarkably polite,--speaks all languages with the +same fluency as his own; but then a veil of disagreeable reserve throws +a dark shade over those perfections.--_Perhaps_ I am wrong to spy out +faults so early;--_perhaps_ to-morrow my opinion may be +different.--First prepossessions--Ah! What would I have said of _first +prepossessions?_--Is it not to them I owe a thousand blessings?--I, who +have nothing to recommend me but being unfortunate. + +Somthing lies at my heart.--Yet I think I could not sleep in quiet, was +I to drop a hint in disfavour of Mr. Jenkings;--it may not be in his +_disfavour_ neither:--However, my dear Lady, you shall be the judge, +after I have repos'd a few hours. + + +Seven o'clock in the morning. + +Why should I blame Mr. Jenkings?--Is not Edmund his only son?--his only +child?--Is he less my friend for suspecting?--Yes, my Lady, I perceive +he does _suspect_.--He is uneasy.--He supposes his son encouraging an +improper affection.--I see it in his very looks:--he must think me an +artful creature.--This it is that distresses me.--I wish I could hit on +a method to set his heart at rest.--If I barely hint a design of leaving +the neighbourhood, which I have done once or twice, he bursts into +tears, and I am oblig'd to sooth him like a child. + +How account for this behaviour?--Why does he look on me with the eye of +fatherly affection,--yet think me capable of a meanness I _despise?_ + +I believe it impossible for a human being to have _more_ good nature, or +_more_ good qualities, than Edmund; yet had he the riches of a Mogul, I +could never think of a connection with him.--_He_, worthy young man, has +never given his father cause for _suspicion_.--I am convinced he has +not.--Naturally of an obliging disposition, he is ever on the watch for +opportunities to gratify his amiable inclinations:--not _one_ such +selfish motive as love to push him on. + +A summons to breakfast.--Lord Darcey, it seems, is below;--I suppose, +slid away from his friends to call on Edmund.--Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings are +_all_ smiles, _all_ good humour, to their son,--I hope it is only I who +have been _suspicious_.--Lord Darcey is still with Edmund.--They are at +this moment under my window,--counselling perhaps, about a commission +he wants his father to purchase for him in the Guards.--I should be glad +to see this matter accommodated;--yet, I could wish, in _so_ tender a +point, his Lordship may not be _too_ forward in advising.--Mr. and Mrs. +Jenkings have such an opinion of him,--they pay such deference to what +he says,--his advice _must_ have weight;--and they _may_ be unhappy by +giving up their inclinations. + +The praises of Lord Darcey are forever sounding in my ears.--To what a +height would the partiality of Mrs. Jenkings lift me?--She would have me +think,--I cannot tell your Ladyship what she would _have me think_.--My +hopes dare not take _such_ a flight.--No!--I can perceive what their +fall _must_ be;--I can perceive _it_, without getting on the top of the +precipice to look down. + +I shall order every thing for my departure, according to your Ladyship's +directions, holding myself in readiness to attend Mr. and Mrs. Smith, at +the time proposed. + +Oxfordshire I must revisit,--for a few days only;--having some little +matters to regulate. + +The silks I have purchas'd for your Ladyship are slight, as you +directed, except a white and gold, which is the richest and most +beautiful I could procure. + +How imperceptibly time slides on?--The clock strikes eleven,--in spight +of the desire I have of communicating many things more.--An engagement +to be with Lady Powis at twelve hastens me to conclude myself + +Your Ladyship's + +Most honour'd and affectionate, + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER IX. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to LORD DARCEY. + +_Bath_. + + +What a sacrifice do you offer up to that old dog Plutus!--I have lost +_all_ patience,--_all_ patience, I say.--_Such_ a woman!--_such_ an +angelic woman!--But what has,--what will avail my arguments?--Her peace +is gone,--if you persevere in a behaviour so _particular_,--absolutely +gone. + +Bridgman this morning told me, that unless I assured him you had +_pretensions_ to Miss Warley, he was determined to offer her his +hand;--_that_ nothing prevented him from doing it whilst at the Abbey, +but your mysterious conduct, which he was at a loss how to construe. +--Not to offend _you_, the _Lady_ or _family_ she is with, he apply'd, +he said, to _me_, as a friend of each party, to set him right. + +Surely, Bridgman, returned I, you wish to keep yourself in the dark; or +how the duce have you been six days with people whose countenances speak +so much sensibility, and not make the discovery you seek after? + +Though her behaviour to us; continued I, was politeness itself, was +there nothing more than _politeness_ in her address to Lord Darcey?--Her +smiles _too_, in which Diana and the Graces revel, saw you not _them_, +how they played from one to another, like sun-beams on the water, until +they fixed on him?--Is the nation in debt?--So much is Darcey in +love;--and you may as well pay off one, as rival the other with +success. + +Observe, my friend, in what manner I have answered for you.--Keep her, +therefore, no longer in suspence.--Delays of this sort are not only +dangerous, but cruel.--Why delight to torture what we most admire?--From +a boy you despised such actions.--Often have I known Dick Jones, when at +Westminster, threshed by your hand for picking poor little birds +alive.--_His_ was an early point;--but for _Darcey_, accoutred with the +breast-plate of honour, even before he could read the word that +signifies its intrinsic value,--_for him_ to be falling off,--falling +off at a time _too_, when Virtue herself appears in person to support +him! + +Can you say, you mean not to injure her?--Is a woman only to be injured, +but by an attempt on her virtue?--Is it _no_ crime, _no_ fault, to cheat +a young innocent lovely girl out of her affections, and give her +nothing in return but regret and disappointment? + +Reflect, what a task is mine, thus to lay disagreeable truths plainly +before you.--To hear it pronounced, that Lord and Lady Darcey are the +happiest couple on earth, is the hope that has pushed me on to this +unpleasing office. + +Bridgman is just set out for town.--I am charg'd with a profusion of +respects, thanks, &c. &c. &c. which, if you have the least oeconomy, +will serve for him, and + +Your very humble servant, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER X. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Bridgman!--Could Bridgman dare aspire to Miss Warley!--_He_ offer her +his hand!--_he_ be connected with a woman whose disposition is +diametrically opposite to his own!--_No_,--that would not have done, +though I had never seen her.--Let him seek for one who has a heart shut +up by a thousand locks. + +After his _own_ conjectures,--after what _you_ have told him,--should he +_but_ attempt to take her from me, by all that is sacred, he shall +repent it dearly. + +Molesworth! _you_ are my friend,--I take your admonitions well;--but, +surely, you should not press thus hardly on my soul, knowing its uneasy +situation.--My state is even more perplexing than when we parted:--I did +not then know she was going to France.--_Yes_, she is absolutely going +to _France_.--Why leave her friends here?--Why not wait the arrival of +Lady Mary Sutton in England? + +I have used every dissuasive argument _but one_.--That shall be my +last.--If _that_ fails I go--I positively go with her.--It is your +opinion that she loves me.--Would it were mine!--_Not_ the least +partiality can I discover.--Why then be precipitate?--Every moment she +is gaining ground in the affections of Sir James and Lady Powis.--_Time_ +may work wonders in the mind of the former.--Without his consent never +can I give my hand;--the commands of a dying father forbid me.--_Such_ a +father!--O George! you did not know him;--_so_ revered,--_so_ +honour'd,--_so_ belov'd! not more in public than in private life. + +_My friend_, behold your son!--_Darcey_, behold your father!--_As_ you +reverence and obey Sir James, _as_ you consult him on all occasions, +_as_ you are guided by his advice, receive my blessing.--These were his +parting words, hugg'd into me in his last cold embrace.--No, George, the +promise I made can never be forfeited.--I sealed it on his lifeless +hand, before I was borne from him. + +_Now_, are you convinc'd no mean views with-hold me?--You despise not +more than I do the knave and coxcomb; for no other, to satiate their own +vanity, would sport away the quiet of a fellow-creature.--Well may you +call it cruel.--_Such_ cruelties fall little short of those practised by +_Nero_ and _Caligula_. + +Did it depend on myself only, I would tell Miss Warley I love, _every +time_ I behold her enchanting face; _every time_ I hear the voice of +wisdom springing from the seat of innocence. + +No shadow of gaining over Sir James!--_Efforts_ has not been wanting:--I +mean _efforts_ to declare my inclination.--I have follow'd him like a +ghost for days past, thinking at every step how I should bless _this_ or +_that_ spot on which he consented to my happiness.--Pleasing +phantoms!--How have they fled at sight of his determin'd +countenance!--Methought I could trace _in it_ the same obduracy which +nature vainly pleaded to remove.--In _other_ matters my heart is +resolute;--_here_ an errant coward.--No! I cannot break it to him whilst +in Hampshire.--When I get to town, a letter _shall_ speak for +me.--Sometimes I am tempted to trust the secret to Lady Powis.--She is +compassionate;--she would even risk her own peace to preserve +mine.--Again the thoughts of involving her in fresh perplexities +determines me against it. + +Had my father been acquainted with that part of Sir James's character +which concerned his son, I am convinc'd he would have made some +restrictions in regard to the explicit obedience he enjoined.--But all +was hushed whilst Mr. Powis continued on his travels; nor, until he +settled abroad, did any one suspect there had been a family +disagreement:--_even_ at _this_ time the whole affair is not generally +known.--The name of the lady to whom he was obliged to make proposals, +is in particular carefully concealed.--I, who from ten years old have +been bred up with them, am an entire stranger to it.--_Perhaps_ no part +of the affair would ever have transpired, had not Sir James made some +discoveries, in the first agitation of his passion, before a large +company, when he received an account of Mr. Powis's being appointed to +the government of ----. No secret can be safe in a breast where every +passage is not well guarded against an enemy which, like lightning, +throws up all before it. + +Let me not forget to tell you, amongst a multiplicity of concerns +crowding on my mind, that I have positively deny'd Edmund to intercede +with his father regarding the commission.--A bare surmise that he is my +rival, has silenced me.--Was I ungenerous enough to indulge myself in +getting rid of him, an opportunity now offers;--but I am _as_ averse to +such proceedings as _he_ ought to be who is the friend of Molesworth, +and writes the name of + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XI. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to Lord DARCEY. + +_Bath_. + + +Believe me, my dear Lord, I never suspected you capable of designs you +justly hold in abhorrence.--If I expressed myself warmly, it was owing +to your keeping from me the knowledge of those particulars which have +varied every circumstance.--I saw my friend a poor restless being, +irresolute, full of perplexities.--I felt for him.--I rejoice now to +find from whence this _irresolution_, those _perplexities_ arose.--She +is,--she must,--by heaven! she shall be yours:--A reward fit only for +_such_ great--_such_ noble resolutions. + +You talk of a _last_ argument--Forbear _that_ argument.--You _must_ not +use it before you have laid your intentions open to Sir +James.--_Neither_ follow her to France.--What, as you are situated, +would _that_ avail?--Prevent her going, _if_ you can.--_Such_ a woman, +under the protection of Lady Mary Sutton, _must_ have many advantageous +proposals. + +I understand _nothing_ of features,--I know _nothing_ of physiognomy, if +you have any uneasiness from Bridgman.--It was not marks of a violent +passion he betrayed;--rather, I think, an ambition of having his taste +approved by the world;--but we shall know more of the matter when I meet +him in town. + +Stupidity!--Not see her partiality!--not see that she loves you!--She +will some time hence own it as frankly with her lips, as her eyes have +told you a thousand times, did you understand their language.--The duce +a word could _I_ get from them.--Very uncivil, I think, not to _speak_ +when they were _spoke_ to,--They will be ready enough, I suppose, with +their _thanks_ and _applauses_, when I present her hand to be united +with her heart. That office shall be _mine_:--_Something_ tells me, +there is to be an alteration in _your_ affairs, sudden as unexpected. + +I go to the rooms this evening for the last time.--To-morrow I set out +for Slone Hall, in my way to London.--Here I shall spend two or three +days happily with my good-natured cousin Lady Dorothy.--Perhaps we may +take an airing together as far as your territories.--I shall _now_ look +on Faulcon-Park with double pleasure.--Neither that or the agreeable +neighbourhood round it will be ever bridled over by a haughty +dame.--(Miss Warley, forbid it.)--Some such we see in _high_ as well as +_low_ life.--Haughtiness is the reverse of true greatness; therefore it +staggers me to behold it in the former. + +A servant with a white favour!--What can this mean?-- + +Upon my word, Mr. Flecher, you return with your fair bride sooner than I +expected.--_A card too_.--Things must be _finely_ accommodated with the +old Lady.--Your Lordship being at too great a distance to partake of the +feast, pray regale on what calls me to it. + +"Mrs. Moor and Mr. and Mrs. Flecher's compliments to Mr. Molesworth.--My +son and daughter are just return'd from Scotland, and hope for the +pleasure of Mr. Molesworth's company with eight or ten other friends, to +congratulate them this evening on their arrival.--Both the Ladies and +Mr. Flecher will be much disappointed, if you do not accept our +invitation." + +True as I live, _neither added_ or _diminished_ a tittle,--and wrote by +the hand of Flecher's Desdemona.--Does not a man richly deserve thirty +thousand pounds with a wife _like this?_--Not for _twice_ that sum would +I see such nonsense come from her I was to spend my life with. + +Pity Nature and Fortune has such frequent bickerings! When one smiles +the other frowns.--I wish the gipsies would make up matters, and send us +down their favours wrapp'd up together. + +Considering the friendship you have honour'd Edmund with, I have no idea +he can presume to think of Miss Warley, _seeing_ what he must _see_. + +I shall expect to find a letter on my arrival in St. James's +Street.--Omit not those respects which are due at Barford Abbey. + +Yours, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XII. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +I should be in a fine plight, truly, to let her go to France without +me!--Why, I am almost besides myself at the thoughts of an eight days +separation.--Was ever any thing so forgetful!--To bring no other cloaths +here but mourning!--Did she always intend to encircle the sun with a +sable cloud?--Or, why not dispatch a servant?--A journey into +Oxfordshire is absolutely necessary.--Some _other_ business, I suppose; +but I am not enough in her confidence to know of what nature.--Poh! +love!--Impossible, and refuse me so small a boon as to attend +her!--requested too in a manner that spoke my whole soul.--Yes; I had +near broke through all my resolutions.--This I did say, If Miss Warley +refuses her dear hand, pressing it to my lips, in the same peremptory +manner,--what will become of him who without it is lost to the whole +world?--The reply ventur'd no further than her cheek;--there sat +enthron'd in robes of crimson.--I scarce dar'd to look up:--her eyes +darted forth a ray so powerful, that I not only quitted her hand, but +suffered her to leave the room without my saying another word.--This +happened at Jenkings's last evening; in the morning she was to set out +with the old gentleman for Oxfordshire.--I did not attempt seeing her +again 'till that time, fearing my presence might be unpleasing, after +the confusion I had occasion'd. + +Sick of my bed I got up at five; and taking a gun, directed my course to +the only spot on earth capable of affording me delight.--The outer gate +barr'd:--no appearance of any living creature, except poor Caesar.--He, +hearing my voice, crept from his wooden-house, and, instead of barking, +saluted me in a whining tone:--stretching himself, he jumped towards the +gate, licking my hand that lay between the bars.--I said many kind +things to this faithful beast, in hopes my voice would awaken some of +the family.--The scheme succeeded.--A bell was sounded from one of the +apartments; that opposite to which I stood.--A servant opening the +window-shutters, I was tempted to keep my stand.--A white beaver with a +green feather, and a riding-dress of the same colour, plainly told me +this was the room where rested all my treasure, and caused in my mind +such conflicts as can no more be described by _me_ than felt by +_another_.--Unwilling to encrease my tortures I reeled to an old tree, +which lay on a bank near;--there sat down to recover my trembling.--The +next thing which alarmed me was an empty chaise, driving full speed +down the hill.--I knew on _what_ occasion, yet could not forbear asking +the post-boy.--He answered, To carry some company from yonder house.--My +situation was really deplorable,--when I beheld my dear lovely girl +walking in a pensive mood, attir'd in that very dress which I espied +through the window.--Heavy was the load I dragged from head to heel; +yet, like a Mercury, I flew to meet her.--She saw me,--started,--and +cry'd, Bless me! my Lord! what brings you hither at this early +hour?--The real truth was springing to my lips, when, recollecting her +happiness might be the sacrifice, I said, examining the lock of my +gun,--I am waiting, Miss Warley, for that lazy fellow Edmund:--he +promised to shew me an eye of pheasants.--If you are not a very keen +sportsman, returned she, what says your Lordship to a cup of +chocolate?--It will not detain you long;--Mrs. Jenkings has some ready +prepared for the travellers. + +She pronounced _travellers_ with uncommon glee;--at least I thought +so,--and, nettled at her indifference, could not help replying, _You_ +are _very_ happy, madam;--_you_ part with your friends _very_ +unreluctantly, I perceive. + +If any thing ever appeared in my favour, it was now.--Her confusion was +visible;--even Edmund observed it, who just then strolled towards us, +and said, looking at both attentively, What is the matter with Miss +Warley? + +With me, Edmund? she retorted,--nothing ails me.--I suppose you think I +am enough of the fine lady to complain the whole day, because I have got +up an hour before my usual time. + +His tongue was _now_ silent;--his eyes _full_ of enquiries.--He fixed +them on us alternately,--wanting to discover the situation of our +hearts.--Why so curious, Edmund?--Things cannot go on long at this +rate.--_Your_ heart must undergo a strict scrutiny before I shall know +what terms we are upon. + +No words can paint my gratitude for worthy Jenkings.--He went to the +Abbey, on foot, before breakfast was ended, to give me an opportunity of +supplying his place in the chaise.--At parting he actually took one of +my hands, joined it with Miss Warley's, and I could perceive petitions +ascending from the seat of purity.--I know to what they tended.--I +_felt_, I _saw_ them.--The chaise drove off. I could have blessed +him.--May my blessings overtake him!--May they light where virtue sits +enshrin'd by locks of silver. + +Yes, if his son was to wound me in the tenderest part, for the sake of +_such_ a father, I think,--I know not what to think.--Living in such +suspence is next to madness. + +She treats him with the freedom of a sister.--She calls him +Edmund,--leans on his arm, and suffers him to take her hand.--The least +favour conferred on me is with an air _so_ reserved, _so_ distant, as if +she would say, I have not for you the least sentiment of tenderness. + +Lady Powis sends to desire I will walk with her.--A sweet companion am I +for a person in low spirits!--That her's are not high is evident.--She +has shed many tears this morning at parting with Miss Warley. + +Instead of eight days mortification we might have suffer'd twenty, had +not her Ladyship insisted on an absolute promise of returning at that +time.--Farewel till then. + +Yours, + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XIII. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. + +_From the Crown, at ----_. + + +Here am I, ever-honour'd lady, forty miles on the road to that beloved +spot, where, for nineteen years, my tranquility was uninterrupted.--Will +a serene sky always hang over me?--It will be presumption to suppose +it,--when thousands, perhaps, endowed with virtues the most god-like, +have nothing on which they can look _back_ but dark clouds,--nothing to +which they can look _forward_ but gathering storms.--Am I a bark only +fit to sail in fair weather?--Shall I not prepare to meet the waves of +disappointment? + +How does my heart bear,--how throb,--to give up follies which dare not +hide themselves where a passage is made _by_ generosity, _by_ affection +unbounded.--Yes, my dear Lady, this is the only moment I do not regret +being absent from you;--for could my tongue relate what my pen trembles +to discover?--No! + +Behold _me_ at your Ladyship's feet!--behold _me_ a supplicant suing for +my returning peace!--_You_ only, can restore it.--Command that I give up +my preference for Lord Darcey, and the intruder is banished from my +heart:--_then_ shall I no more labour to deceive myself:--_then_ shall I +no more blindly exchange certain peace for doubtful happiness,--a +_quiet_ for a _restless_ mind.--Humility has not fled me;--my heart has +not fallen a sacrifice to title, pomp, or splendor.--Yet, has it not +foolishly, unasked, given itself up?--Ah! my Lady, not entirely unask'd +neither; or, why, from the first moment, have I seen him shew _such_ +tender, _such_ respectful assiduities?--why _so_ ardently solicit to +attend me into Oxfordshire?--why ask, if I refused my hand in the same +peremptory manner, what would become of the man who without it was lost +to the whole world?--But am I not too vain?--Why should this man be Lord +Darcey?--Rather one rising to his imagination, who he might possibly +suppose was entrapped by my girlish years.--A few, a very _few_ weeks, +and I am gone from him forever.--If your Ladyship's goodness can pardon +the confession I have made, no errors will I again commit of the kind +which now lies blushing before you. + +Next to your Ladyship Mr. Jenkings is the best friend I have on +earth.--He _never_ has suspected, or _now_ quite forgets his +suspicions.--Not all my entreaties could prevent him from taking this +long journey with me.--His age, his connections, his business, every +thing is made subservient to my convenience--Whilst I write he is below, +and has just sent up to know if I will permit a gentleman of his +acquaintance, whom he has met accidentally at this inn, to dine with +us.--Why does he use this ceremony?--I can have no objection to any +friend of _his_.--Dinner is served up.--I shall write again at our last +stage this evening. + + +_From the Mitre at ----_. + +Past twelve at night!--An hour I used to think the most silent of +any:--but _here_ so much the reverse, one reasonably may suppose the +inhabitants, or guests, have mistaken midnight for mid-day. + +I will ring and enquire, why all this noise? + +A strange bustle!--Something like fighting!--Very near, I +protest.--Hark! bless me, I shall be frightened to death!--The +chambermaid not come! Would I could find my way to Mr. Jenkings's +room!--Womens voices, as I live!--Begging!--praying!--Ah! ah! now they +cry, Take the swords away!--Take the swords away!--Heaven defend us! to +be sure we shall be all killed. + + +_One o'clock_. + +Not kill'd, but terrified out of my senses.--Well, if ever I stop at +this inn again-- + +You remember, Madam, I was thrown into a sad fright by the hurry and +confusion without.--I dropped my pen, and pulled the bell with greater +violence.--No one came;--the noise increas'd.--Several people ran up and +down by the door of my apartment.--I flew and double lock'd it.--But, +good God! what were my terrors, when a voice cried out, She cannot be +brought to life!--Is there no assistance at hand?--no surgeon near?--I +rushed from my chamber, in the first emotions of surprize and +compassion, to mix in a confused croud, _unknowing_ and _unknown_.--I +ventur'd no further than the passage. Judge my astonishment, to perceive +there, and in a large room which open'd into it, fifty or sixty well +dressed people of both sexes:--_Women_, some crying, some +laughing:--_Men_ swearing, stamping, and calling upon others to come +down and end the dispute below.--I thought of nothing _now_, but how to +retreat unobserv'd:--when a gentleman, in regimentals, ran so furiously +up the stairs full against me, that I should have been instantly at the +bottom, had not his extended arm prevented my flight. + +I did not stay to receive his apologies, but hastened to my chamber, and +have not yet recovered my trembling.--Why did I leave it?--Why was I so +inconsiderate? + +Another alarm!--Some one knocks at the door!--Will there be no end to my +frights? + +If one's spirits are on the flutter, how every little circumstance +increases our consternation!--When I heard the tapping at my door, +instead of enquiring who was there, I got up and stood against it. + +Don't be afraid, _Mame_, said a voice without; it is only the +chambermaid come with some drops and water.--With drops and water! +replied I, letting her in--who sent you hither? + +Captain Risby, _Mame_, one of the officers:--he told me you was +frighten'd. + +I am oblig'd to the gentleman;--but set down the drops, I do not want +any.--Pray tell me what has occasioned this uproar in your house? + +To be sure, _Mame_, here has been a terrifying noise this night.--It +don't use to be so;--but our _Town's_ Gentlemen have such a dislike to +_Officers_, I suppose there will be no peace while they are in town.--I +never saw the Ladies dress'd so fine in my life; and had the Colonel +happen'd to ask one of the _Alderman's_ daughters to dance, all would +have gone on well. + +You have an assembly then in the house? + +O yes, _Mame_, the assembly is always kept here.--And, as I was saying, +the Colonel should have danced with one of our Alderman's +daughters:--instead of that, he engag'd a daughter of Esquire Light, and +introduced the Major and a _handsome Captain_ to her two sisters.--Now, +to be sure, this was enough to enrage the best Trade's-People in the +place, who can give their _young Ladies_ three times as much as Mr. +Light can his daughters. + +I saw she was determin'd to finish her harangue, so did not attempt to +interrupt her. + +One of us chambermaids, _Mame_, continued she, always assist the +waiters;--it was my turn this evening; so, as I was stirring the fire in +the card-room, I could hear the Ladies whisper their partners, if they +let strangers stand above them, they might dance with whom they could +get for the future.--They were busy about the matter when the Colonel +enter'd with Miss Light, who though she is _very_ handsome, _very_ +sensible, and all that, it did not become her to wear a silver +silk;--for what, as _our Ladies_ said, is family without fortune?--But I +am running on with a story of an hour long.--So _Mame_, as soon as the +Colonel and his partner went into the dancing-room,--_one_ cry'd, Defend +me from French'd hair, if people's heads are to look like +towers;--_another_, her gown sleeves were too large;--a _third_, the +robeings too high;--a _fourth_, her ruff too deep:--in short, _Mame_, +her very shoe-buckles shared the same fate. + +This recital put me out of all patience:--I could not endure to see held +up a picture, which, though out of the hands of a dauber, presented a +true likeness of human nature in her most deprav'd state.--Enough, Mrs. +Betty, said I, now pray warm my bed; it is late, and I am fatigued. + +O! to be sure, _Mame_; but will you not first hear what was the occasion +of the noise?--The country-dances, continued she, not waiting my reply, +began; and _our Town's Gentlemen_ ran to the top of the room, leaving +the _Officers_ to dance at the bottom.--This put them in _so_ violent a +passion, that the Colonel swore, if _our_ Gentlemen persisted in their +ill manners, not a soul should dance.--So, _Mame_, upon this _our_ +Gentlemen let some of the Officers stand above them;--and there was no +dispute till after ten.--What they quarrelled about then I don't +know;--but, when I came into the room, they were all going to +fight;--and fight they certainly would, if they could have got _our_ +Gentlemen down stairs.--Not one of them would stir, which made the +others so mad, that they would have pulled them down, had not the Ladies +interfered.--Then it was, _Mame_, I suppose, you heard the cries and +shrieks; for every one that had _husbands, brothers_, or _admirers_ +there, took hold of them; begging and praying they would not +fight.--Poor Miss Peggy Turner will have a fine rub; for she always +deny'd to her _Mamma_, that there was any thing in the affair between +her and Mr. Grant the Attorney. Now she has discovered all, by fainting +away when he broke from her to go to the other end of the room. + +I hope there has been no blood shed? + +None, I'll assure you, _Mame_, in this house; what happens out of it is +no business of mine. Now, _Mame_, would you please to go to bed? By all +means, Mrs. Betty.--So away went my communicative companion. Being much +tired, I shall lay down an hour or two, then reassume my pen. + + +_Four o'clock in the morning_. + +Not able to close my eyes, I am got up to have the pleasure of +introducing to your Ladyship the Gentleman who I mention'd was to dine +with us at the other inn. Judge my surprize, when I found him to be the +worthy Dean of H---- going into Oxfordshire to visit his former +flock;--I knew him before Mr. Jenkings pronounced his name, by the +strong likeness of his picture. + +I even fancied the beautiful pair stood before me, whose hands he is +represented joining. It is much to be regretted so fine a piece should +be hid from the world.--Why should not _this_ be proportion? The _other_ +portraits which your Ladyship has drawn, are even allowed by Reynolds to +be masterly.--Let me therefore entreat, next time he comes to the Lodge, +my favourite may _at least_ have a chance of being called from +banishment. + +The Dean was almost discouraged from proceeding on his journey, by +hearing of your Ladyship's absence, and the death of Mrs. Whitmore.--He +was no stranger to what concern'd me, tho' I could be scarce an +inhabitant of Hillford-Down at the time _he_ left it.--I suppose his +information was from Mr. Jenkings; I could see them from the window deep +in discourse, walking in the Bowling-Green, from the moment the Dean got +out of his chaise till dinner. + +The latter expressed infinite satisfaction when I joined them; looking +with such stedfast tenderness, as if he would trace on my countenance +the features of some dear friend.--His sincere regard for Mr. and Mrs. +Whitmore, and the gratitude he owes your Ladyship, must make him behold +me with a favourable eye, knowing how greatly I have been distinguish'd +by the two latter. + +He had a stool put into his chaise; assuring us we could fit three +conveniently--We came from the last inn together, and are to travel so +the remainder of the journey. + +After your Ladyship's strict commands, that I look on Brandon-Lodge as +my home, I shall make it such the few days I stay in Oxfordshire;--and +have presumed on your indulgence, to request Mr. Jenkings will do the +same.--The Dean's visit is to Mr. Gardener, which will be happy for me, +as that Gentleman's house is so near the Lodge.--I hope to see the tops +of the chimneys this evening.-- + +My heart would jump at the sight, if I expected your Ladyship to meet me +with open arms.--Extatic thought!--unfit to precede those +disappointments which must follow thick on one another. Can there be +greater!--to pass the very house, once inhabited by--O my Lady!--Heaven! +how will your and her image bring before me past happy scenes! + +If this is the Dean's voice, he is got up, early. The horses putting to, +and scarce five o'clock! Here comes a messenger, to say they are ready. +So rest my pen, till; I again take it up at Brandon-Lodge. + + +_Brandon-Lodge_. + +I never saw such general joy as appeared through the village at sight of +the Dean.--The first person who espy'd him ran with such speed into +every house, that by the time we reached Mr. Gardener's gate, the +chaise was surrounded by a hundred people.--Mr. and Mrs. Gardener +stepping out, were saluted by the Dean. What, our old friend! cried +they.--What, our old friend!--Good God!--and Miss Warley too!--This is a +joyful surprize, indeed! and would have taken me out by force, if I had +not persisted in going to the Lodge.--Your Ladyship is enough acquainted +with these good people, to know they would part with any thing rather +than their friends.--I have not yet seen Miss Gardener: she was gone on +a walk with Miss West and Miss Conway. + +The Dean showered a thousand marks of regard on all around him;--the +meanest not escaping his notice.--In this tumult of pleasure I did not +pass unregarded.--Your Ladyship and Mrs. Whitmore still live in their +hearts; the pure air of Hillford-Down will not mix with the cold blast +of ingratitude. + +May the soft pillow I am going to repose on, shut not out from my mind +the load of obligations which rest on it!--The remembrance is balm to my +soul, either in my sleeping or waking hours. + + +Nine o'clock. + +Scarce out of my bed half an hour!--How have I over-slept myself! Mrs. +Bennet has prevailed on Mr. Jenkings to have some breakfast.--Good, +considerate woman!--indeed, all your Ladyship's domestics are good and +considerate.--No wonder, when you treat them so very different from +_some people_ of high rank. Let those who complain of fraud, guilt, +negligence, or want of respect from their dependants, look in +here;--where they will see honesty, virtue, and reverence attend the +execution of every command.--Flowers must be planted before they can +take root.--Few, very few endeavour to improve an uncultivated soil, +notwithstanding how great the advantage is to the improver. + +I last night receiv'd pleasure inexpressible, by sending for the +servants to acquaint them of your Ladyship's returning health; and +feasted on the satisfaction they expressed.--In a moment all the live +creatures were brought.--I am satisfied, my Lady, if any of them die in +your absence, it must be of fat.--My old acquaintances Bell and Flora +could hardly waddle in to pay their compliments; the parrot, which used +to squall the moment she saw me, is now quite dumb; shewing no mark of +her favour, but holding down her head to be scratched;--the turtle-doves +are in the same case.--I have taken the liberty to desire the whole crew +might be put to short allowance. + +John said, he believed it was natural for every thing to grow fat here; +and was much afraid, when I saw the coach-horses, I should pronounce the +same hard sentence against them, desiring orders to attend me with the +carriage this morning.--I told him my stay would be so short, I should +have no time for an airing. + +The gardener has just sent me a blooming nosegay; I suppose, to put me +in mind of visiting his care, which I intend, after I have acquainted +your Ladyship with an incident that till this moment had escaped my +memory.--The Dean, Mr. Jenkings, and myself, were drinking a cup of +chocolate before we sat out from the inn where I had been so much +hurried, when captain Risby sent in his name, desiring we would admit +him for a moment. His request being assented to, he entered very +respectfully, said he came to apologize for the rudeness he was guilty +of the last night.--The Dean and Mr. Jenkings presently guessed his +meaning; I had been just relating the whole affair, which I was pleased +to find did not disturb their rest.--I assured Captain Risby, far from +deeming his behaviour rude, I was obliged to him for his solicitude in +sending a servant to my chamber. He said he had not been in bed, +determining to watch our setting out, in hopes his pardon would be +sealed:--that to think of the accident he might have occasioned, gave +him great pain. + +Pardon me, Madam, addressing himself to me; and you, Sir, to Mr. +Jenkings; if I ask one plain question: Have _you_, or at least has not +_that Lady_, relations out of England? I have a friend abroad--I have +heard him say his father is still living;--but then he has no +sister;--or a certain likeness I discover would convince me. + +Undoubtedly he took me for Mr. Jenkings's daughter:--what he meant +further I cannot divine. + +Mr. Jenkings reply'd, You are mistaken, Sir, if you think me the father +of this Lady.--The chaise driving up that moment to the door, he shook +him by the hand, and led me towards it; the Captain assisting me in +getting in. + +I wish I could have satisfied my curiosity.--I wish I had known to whom +he likened me.--Perhaps his eyes misinformed him--perhaps he might have +taken a cheerful glass after the last night's encounter:--yet he +resembled not a votary of Bacchus;--his complexion clear;--hair nicely +comb'd;--coat without a spot;--linen extremely fine and clean.--But +enough of him.--Here comes the Dean, walking up the avenue escorting a +party of my old acquaintances. + +Adieu! dearest honour'd Lady, till my return to Hampshire. + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XIV. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to LORD DARCEY. + +London. + + +_Was every any thing so forgetful, to bring no other clothes here but +mourning?_ + +Really, my Lord, this favours a good deal of the matrimonial stile. Was +you, commenced Benedict, I should think you had received lessons from +the famous L----, who takes such pains with his pupils, that those whose +attendance is frequent, can, in, the space of three months after the +knot is tied, bring their wives to hear patiently the +words--_forgetful,--ridiculous,--absurd,--pish--poh_,--and a thousand +more of the same significant meaning.--I hear you, my Lord:--_it is +true_, I am in jest; and know you would scorn to say even a peevish +thing to a wife. + +Why fret yourself to a skeleton about an absence of eight days?--How +could you suppose she would let you go into Oxfordshire?--Proper +decorums must be observed by that sex.--Are not those despicable who +neglect them?--What would you have said, had she taken Edmund with +her?--Don't storm:--on reflection you will find you had no greater right +to expect that indulgence. + +I have this morning had a letter from Dick Risby, that unfortunate, but +worthy cousin of _mine_, just returned from the West-Indies to take on +him the command of a company in Lord ----'s regiment. What a Father +his!--to abandon _such_ a son.--Leave him to the wide world at +sixteen,--without a shilling, only to gratify the pride and avarice of +his serpent daughter,--who had art sufficient to get this noble youth +disinherited for her waddling brat, whose head was form'd large enough +to contain his mother's mischief and his own.--In vain we attempted to +set aside the will:--my brother would not leave England whilst there +remained the least hopes for poor Risby. + +I always dreaded Dick's going abroad, well knowing what a designing +perfidious slut his sister was, from her very infancy.--Her parents drew +down a curse by their blind indulgence:--even her nurse was charg'd not +to contradict her; she was to have every thing for which she shewed the +least inclination. + +Lord Eggom and myself being near of an age with our cousins, were +sometimes sent to play with them in their nursery; and, though boys of +tolerable spirit, that vixen girl has so worried us by her tyrannic and +impatient temper, that we have often petitioned, at our return home, to +be put to bed supperless.--If sweet-meats were to be divided, she would +cry to have the whole; the same in regard to cards,--shells,--money, or +whatever else was sent for our entertainment.--When she has pinched us +black and blue,--a complaint to her mother has been made by Dick, who +could not bear to see us so used, though he was obliged to take such +treatment himself, the only redress we should receive was--Poh! she is +but a baby.--I thought you had all known better than to take notice of +what _such_ a _child_ as Lucy does--Once, when this was said before her, +me flew at me, and cry'd, I will pinch again, if I please;--papa and +mamma says I shall,--and so does nurse; and I don't mind what any body +else says.--I waited only for my revenge, till the two former withdrew; +when sending the latter for a glass of water, I gave _Miss_ such a +glorious tacking, as I believe she has never tasted the like before or +since.--In the midst of the fray, I heard nurse running up, which made +me hasten what I owed on _my own_ account, to remind her of the +_favours_ she had conferred on Lord Eggom and her brother.--If such a +termagant in her infant state,--judge what she must be at a time of life +when her passions are in full vigour, and govern without controul!--I +have just shewn the method of rearing this diabolical plant, that you +may not wonder at its productions.--I shall see justice overtake her, +notwithstanding the long strides she is making to escape. + +Dick will be in town with us most part of the winter:--I have wrote him +to that purpose, and mention'd your name. He will rejoice to see you:--I +have often heard him regret your acquaintance was of so short +standing.--Bridgman set out for York the day before I arrived; his +servants inform me he is not expected back this three weeks. + +I like our lodgings vastly; but more so as the master and mistress of +the family are excessively clean and obliging; two things so material to +my repose, that I absolutely could not dispense patiently with +either.--This it was which made me felicitous about taking a house; I am +now so happily situated, I wish not to have one in town whilst I remain +a batchelor. Heaven knows how long that will be!--Your nonpareil has +given me a dislike to all my former slight prepossessions. + +Lady Elizabeth Curtis!--I did once indeed think a little seriously of +her:--but _such_ a meer girl!--Perhaps the time she has spent in France, +Germany, and the Lord knows where, may have changed her from a little +bewitching, smiling, artless creature--to a _vain, designing, +haughty_,--I could call a coquet by a thousand names;--but Lady +Elizabeth _can_-not, _must_ not be a coquet.--Cupid, though, shall never +tye a bandage over my eyes.--The charms that must fix me are not to be +borrow'd;--I shall look for them in her affection to her relations;--in +a condescending behaviour to inferiors;--above all, when she offers up +her first duties.--If she shines here, I shall not follow her to the +card-table, or play-house:--every thing must be right in a heart where +duty, affection, and humility, has the precedence. + +The misfortune of our sex is this: when taken with a fine face, we +enquire no further than, Is she _polite?_--Is she _witty?_ Does she +_dance_ well?--sing well?--in short, _is_ she fit to appear in the _Beau +Monde_; whilst good sense and virtues which constitute real happiness, +are left out of the question. + +How does beauty,--politeness--wit,--a fine voice,--a graceful movement, +charm!--But how often are we deceiv'd by them.--An instance of which I +have lately seen in our old friend Sir Harry. No man on earth can pity +that poor soul more than I do; yet I have laughed hours to think of his +mistake. _So mild--so gentle_--said he, George, a week before his +marriage, I should have said _execution_,--it is impossible to put her +out of humour.--If I am not the happiest man breathing, it must be my +own fault. + +What was my astonishment when I call'd on him in my way to town, and +found this mild _gentle mate_ of his, aided by a houseful of her +relations, had not only deprived him of all right and authority in the +_Castle_, but almost of his very speech! + +I dropt in about one, told the Baronet I came five miles out of my way +for the pleasure of saluting his bride, and to drink a bottle of claret +with him.--He was extremely glad to see me; and ventured to say so, +_before_ I was introduced to the _Ladies_:--but I saw by his sneaking +look, no such liberty must be taken in _their_ presence.--My reception +was gracious enough, considering all communication is cut off between +him and his former acquaintance. + +Scarce was I seated, before the old Dowager asked me, if her daughter +had not made _great_ alterations in the little time she had been at the +Castle. + +_Alterations_, Madam! I reply'd;--upon my honour, they are _so_ visible, +no person can avoid being struck with them.--How could your father and +mother, Sir Harry, bear to live in such an wood? looking and speaking +disdainfully.--He smiled obsequious--hemm'd--trembled, and was +silent.--I hope, continued she, not to see a tree remaining near this +house before the next summer.--We want much, Mr. Molesworth, turning to +me with quite a different look and voice, to have the pleasure-ground +laid out:--but really her Ladyship has had so much to set in order +_within doors_, that it has taken off her attention a good deal from +what is necessary to be done _without_.--However, Sir, you shall see our +design; so, my dear, speaking to her daughter, let Sir Harry fetch the +plan. + +It is in my closet, returned her Ladyship, and I don't chuse to send +_him_ there;--but I'll ring for Sally. + +I had like that moment to have vow'd a life of celibacy--I saw him +redden;--how could he avoid it, if one spark of manhood remain'd? + +The indignation I felt threw such a mist before my eyes, that when the +plan was laid on the table, I could scarce distinguish temples from +clumps of shrubs, or Chinese seats from green slopes.--Yet this +_reptile_ of a husband could look over my shoulder, hear the opinion of +every one present, without _daring_ to give his own. + +I was more out of patience at dinner.--Bless me, says her Ladyship, how +_aukward_ you are when I _bid_ you cut up any thing!--the mother and +daughter echoing, _Never_ was there _such_ a carver as _Sir +Harry!_--Well, I vow, cry'd the latter, it is a strange thing you will +not remember, so often as I have _told you_, to lay the meat handsome in +the dish. + +Good God! thought I, can this man live out half his days?--And, faith, +if I had not drank five bumpers of Madeira, I could not have stood the +sight of his fearful countenance. + +He perceived I was distress'd, and whisper'd me as I mounted my +horse,--You see how it is, Molesworth; breeding women _must_ not be +contradicted.-- + +_I do, I do_ see how it is, return'd I; and could not for my soul +forbear saying, I shall rejoice to hear of a _delivery_. + +This is the day when the important affairs of the m----y are to be +settled; the papers will inform you; but can a man in love have any +relish for politics?--Pray, divest yourself of that plague, when you +attend the house.--I should drop to hear you say you espouse _this_ or +_that_ cause, for the love of _Miss Warley_, instead of your _country_. + +_Next Friday!_--Well, I long to see you after a dreadful, dreadful +absence of _eight days_.--There is something confounded ridiculous in +all this stuff; nor can I scarce credit that man should pine, fret, and +make himself unhappy, because he is loosed from the apron-strings of his +Phillida for a few days.--I see you shrug;--but my fate is not dependent +on your prognostications.--Was it so, I know where I should be,--down +amongst the _dead_ men;--down amongst the _dead_ men.-- + +However, I would consent to be rank'd in the number of Cupid's slain, +could I be hit by just such a dart as pierc'd you. + +Vulcan certainly has none ready made that will do, unless he sharpens +the points of those which have already recoiled. + +But hold; I must descend from the clouds, to regale myself on a fine +turtle at the Duke of R----d's. What an _epicure!_ Talk of feasting my +palate, when my eyes are to meet delicacies of a far more inviting +nature!--There _was_ a time I should have been envy'd _such_ a +repast:--_that_ time is fled;--_you_ are no longer a monopolizer of +beauty;--can sing but of _one_,--talk but of _one_--dream but of +_one_,--and, what is still more extraordinary, love but _one_.-- + +Give _me_ a heart at large;--such confin'd notions are not for + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XV. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +I envy not the greatest monarch on earth!--She is return'd with my +peace;--my joy;--my very soul.--Had you seen her restorative smiles! +they spoke more than my pen can describe!--She bestow'd them on me, even +before she ran to the arms of Sir James and Lady Powis.--Sweet +condescension!--Her hand held out to meet mine, which, trembling, stopt +half way.--What checks,--what restraint, did I inflict on myself!--Yes, +that would have been the decisive moment, had I not perceiv'd the eyes +of Argus planted _before, behind_, on _every side_ of Sir James.--God! +how he star'd.--I suppose my looks made some discovery.--Once more I +must take thee up, uneasy dress of hypocrisy;--though it will be as hard +to girt on, as the tight waistcoat on a lunatic. + +Never has a day appear'd to me so long as _this_.--_Full_ of +expectation, _full_ of impatience!--All stuff again.--No matter; it is +not the groans of a sick man, that can convey his pain to another:--to +feel greatly, you must have been afflicted with the same malady. + +I suppose you would laugh to hear how often I have opened and shut the +door;--how often look'd out at the window,--or the multiplicity of times +examined my watch since ten this morning!--Needless would it likewise +be to recount the impatient steps I have taken by the road-side, +attentive to the false winds, which would frequently cheat me into a +belief, that my heart's treasure was approaching.--Hark! I should say, +that must be wheels;--stop and pause;--walk forwards;--stop again, till +every sound have died upon my ear. + +Harrass'd by expectation, I saunter'd a back way to +Jenkings's;--enquired of Mrs. Jenkings, what time she thought her +husband might be home; and taking Edmund with me to my former walk, +determined to sound _his_ inclinations.--I waved mentioning Miss +Warley's name till we had gone near a quarter of a mile from the house; +still expecting he would begin the subject, which at this juncture I +suppose particularly engaged his attention; but perceiving he led to +things quite opposite, I drew him out in the following manner. + +So you really think, Edmund, your father will not be out after it is +dark? + +I have not known, my Lord, that he has for many years; rather than +venture, I believe, he would stop the night at Oxford. Very composedly +he said this, for I watched his looks narrowly.-- + +Edmund, confess, confess _frankly_, said I; has not _this_ day been the +longest you ever knew? + +The longest I ever knew! Faith your Lordship was never more out: far +from thinking so, I am startled to find how fast the hours have flown; +and want the addition of at least three, to answer letters which my +father's business requires. + +Business, _Edmund!_ and does _business_ really engross so much of your +attention, when you know _who_ is expected in the evening? Ah! _Edmund_, +you are a sly fellow: never tell me, you want to lengthen out the +tedious hours of _absence_. + +_Tedious hours of absence!_ Ho! ho! my Lord, I see _now_ what you are +at; your Lordship can never suppose me _such_ a fool as to-- + +Fool!--My supposition, _Edmund_, pronounces you a man of sense; but you +mistake my meaning. + +I do not mistake, my Lord; surely it must be the height of folly to lift +my thoughts to Miss Warley. Suppose my father can give me a few +thousands,--are these sufficient to purchase beauty, good sense, with +every accomplishment?--No, no, my Lord, I am not such a vain +fellow;--Miss Warley was never born for _Edmund Jenkings_--She told me +_so_, the first moment I beheld her. + +_Told you so?_ what then, you have made pretensions to her, and she told +you _so?_ + +Yes, my Lord, she told, me _so_.--That is, her _eyes_, her whole +graceful _form_, spoke it.--Was I a man of family,--a man of title, with +a proper knowledge of the world,--I would not deliberate a moment. + +How comes it then, Edmund, that you are so assiduous to oblige her?--You +would not run and fly for every young lady.-- + +True, my Lord, it is not every one would repay me with smiles of +condescension. Suffer me to assure your Lordship, when I can oblige Miss +Warley, my ambition is gratified.--Never, _never_ shall a more +presumptuous wish intrude to make me less worthy of the honour I receive +from your Lordship's notice.-- + +This he spoke with energy;--such energy,--as if he had come at the book +of my heart, and was reading its contents. I knew his regard for my dear +amiable girl, and the danger of betraying my secret, or should have +treated him with unbounded confidence:--I therefore only applauded his +sentiments;--told him a man who could think thus nobly,--honour'd me in +his friendship;--that mine to him should be unalterable; call'd him +brother; and by the joyful perturbations of my soul, I fear I gave him +some idea of what I strove to hide. + +The curtain of night was dropping by slow degrees, when a distant sound +of wheels interrupted our conversation.--We stood listening a moment, as +it approach'd nearer. Edmund cry'd out,--They are come; I hear, +Caesar's voice; and, taking a hearty leave, ran home to receive them.--I +directed my course towards the Abbey, in hopes the chaise had proceeded +thither, and found I had steer'd right, seeing it stand at the entrance. + +Mr. Jenkings did not get out; Lady Powis refused to part with Miss +Warley this night. Whilst I write, I hope she is enjoying a sweet +refreshing sleep. O! Molesworth! could I flatter myself she dreams of +me!-- + +To-morrow Lord and Lady Allen, Mr. and Mrs. Winter, dine here; +consequently Miss Winter, and her _fond_ admirer, Lord Baily.--How often +have I laugh'd to see that cooing, billing, pair? It is come home, +you'll say, with a vengeance.--Not so neither.--I never intend making +such a very fool of myself as Lord Baily.--Pray, Madam, don't sit +against that door;--and pray, Madam, don't sit against this window.--I +hear you have encreased your cold;--you speak hoarse:--indeed, Madam, +you speak hoarse, though you won't confess it.--In this strain has the +monkey ran on for two hours.--No body must help him at table but Miss +Winter.--He is always sure to eat whatever is next her.--She, equally +complaisant, sends her plate to him;--desires he will have a bit of the +same.--Excessively high, my Lord;--you never eat any thing so well +done.--The appearance of fruit is generally the occasion of great +altercation:--What! venture on peaches again, Miss Winter?--Indeed, my +Lord, I shall only eat this small one;--that was not half ripe which +made me sick yesterday.--No more nuts; I absolutely lay an embargo on +nuts,--No more, nonsense: I absolutely lay an embargo on nonsense, says +Molesworth to + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XVI. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Once more, my dear Lady, I dispatch a packet from this place,--after +bidding adieu to the agreeable Dean,--Brandon Lodge,--and my friends in +that neighbourhood. + +How long I shall continue here, God only knows.--If my wishes could +avail, the time would be short; very short, indeed.--I am quite out of +patience with Mr. and Mrs. Smith; some delay every time I hear from +them.--First, we were to embark the middle of this month;--then the +latter end;--now it is put off till the beginning of the next:--perhaps, +when I hear next, it will be, they do not go at all.--Such weak +resolutions are never to be depended on;--a straw, like a magnet, will +draw them from side to side. + +I think I am as much an inhabitant of this house as of Mr. +Jenkings's:--I lay here last night after my journey, and shall dine here +this day; but as a great deal of company is expected, must go to my +_other_ home to dress.--To-morrow your Ladyship shall command me. + + +From Mr. _Jenkings's_. + +Rejoice with me, my dear Lady.--You _will_ rejoice, I know, you _will_. +to find my eyes are open to my folly.--How could I be so vain; so +presumptuous!--Yes, it must be vanity, it must be presumption to the +highest,--gloss it over as I will,--to harbour thoughts which before +this your Ladyship is acquainted with.--Did you not blush for me?--did +you not in contempt throw aside my letter?--Undoubtedly you did.--Go, +you said.--I am sure, dear Madam, you _must_ let me not again behold the +weakness of that poor silly girl.--But this is my hope, you are not apt +to judge unfavourably, _even_ in circumstances that will scarce admit of +palliation.--Tell me, my dear Lady, I am pardoned; tell me so, and I +shall never be again unhappy.--How charming, to have _peace_ and +_tranquility_ restor'd, when I fear'd they were for _ever_ banish'd my +breast!--I welcomed the friends;--my heart bounded at their return;--I +smiled on them;--soothed them;--and promised never more to drive them +out. + +Thank you, Lord Allen;--again, I thank you:--can I ever be too +grateful?--You have been instrumental to my repose. + +The company that dined at the Abbey yesterday were Lord and Lady Allen, +Lord Baily, Mr. Mrs. and Miss Winter.--This was the first day I changed +my mourning;--a white lutestring, with the fine suit of rough garnets +your Ladyship gave me, was my dress on the occasion.--But let me proceed +to the incident for which I stand indebted for the secret tranquility, +the innate repose I now possess in a _superlative_ degree.-- + +When I went to Mr. Jenkings's to dress for dinner, Lord Darcey attended +me, as usual:--the coach was to fetch us.--I thought I never saw his +Lordship in such high good humour; what I mean is, I never saw him in +such spirits.--To speak the truth, his temper always appears +unruffled;--sometimes a little gloomy; but I suppose he is not exempted +from the common ills of life.--He entertained me on the way with a +description of the company expected, interlarding his conversation with +observations tending to raise my vanity. Notwithstanding his seeming +sincerity, I was proof against such insinuations.--If he had stopp'd +_there_,--well, if he had stop'd _there_;--what then?--Why then, +perhaps, I should not have betray'd the weakness of my heart.--But I +hope thy confusion pass'd unobserv'd;--I hope it was not seen before I +could draw my handkerchief from my pocket: if it should, heavens! the +very thought has dyed me scarlet. + +I am running on as though your Ladyship had been present in Mr. +Jenkings's parlour,--in the coach,--and at table, whither I must conduct +you, my dear Lady, if your patience will bear a minute +_recital_.--First, then, to our conference in the parlour, after I was +dress'd. + +My coming down interrupted a _tete-a-tete_ between his Lordship and +Edmund. The latter withdrew soon after I entered;--_it look'd some-how +as if designed;--it vexed me_;--mean it how he would, _it much_ +disconcerted me:--I _hate_, I _despise_ the least appearance of +design.--In vain did I attempt to bring him back; he only answer'd he +would be with us instantly. + +I was no sooner seated, than his Lordship placed himself by me; and +fetching a deep sigh, said, I wish it was in my power to oblige Miss +Warley as much as it is in hers to oblige me.-- + +My Lord, I cannot conceive how I have it in my power to oblige you. He +took my hand,--Yes, Madam, to make _me_ happy,--for ever happy,--to +make _Sir James_ and _Lady Powis happy_, you have only to determine not +to quit your native country. + +Stop! my Lord, if you mean my going to _Montpellier_, I am +determin'd.--And are you _really_ determin'd, Miss Warley?--his face +overspread with a dreadful paleness. + +I am, my Lord, + +But what are you determin'd? Are you determined to distress your +friends? + +I wish not to distress my friends: nothing would give me so much pain; +but I _must_ go;--indeed I _must_. + +He rose up;--walk'd about the room,--came back to his seat again, +looking quite frantic,--Good God! why should that sex practise so many +arts? He pray'd,--intreated,--left no argument untried. + +I cannot picture his countenance, when I declared myself resolved.--He +caught both my hands, fixed his eyes stedfastly upon me. + +Then you are inflexible, Madam?--Nothing can move you to pity the most +wretched of his sex.--Know you the person living that could prevail?--If +you do,--say so;--I will bring him instantly on his knees. + +There is not in the world, my Lord, one who could prevent me from paying +my _duty_, my _affection_, my _obedience_, to Lady Mary Sutton: if due +to a parent, how much more from me to _Lady Mary_;--a poor orphan, who +have experienced from her the most maternal fondness? The word _orphan_ +struck him; he reeled from me and flung himself into a chair opposite, +leaning his head on a table which stood near. + +I declare he distress'd me greatly;--I know not what my thoughts were at +that moment;--I rose to quit the room; he started up. + +Don't leave me, Miss Warley;--don't leave me. I _will_ keep you no +longer in the dark: I _must_ not suffer in your opinion,--be the +consequence-- + +Here we were interrupted by Edmund.--I was sorry he just then +entered;--I would have given the world to know what his Lordship was +about to say. + +When we were in the coach, instead of explaining himself, he assumed +rather a chearful air; and asked, if my time was fix'd for going to +France? + +Not absolutely fix'd, my Lord; a month or two hence, perhaps. This I +said, that he might not know exactly the time when I shall set out. + +_A month_ or _two!_ O! that will be just the thing, just as I could wish +it.-- + +What does your Lordship mean? + +Only that I intend spending part of the winter in Paris; and if I should +not be deemed an _intruder_, perhaps the same yacht may carry us over. + +I was never more at a loss for a reply. + +Going to France, my Lord! in a hesitating voice.--I never heard,--I +never dreamt,--your Lordship had such an intention. + +Well, you do not forbid it, Miss Warley? I shall certainty be of your +party: + +_I forbid it_, my Lord! _I forbid it!_ What right have _I_ to controul +your Lordship's actions? Besides, we should travel so short a way +together, it would be very immaterial. + +Give me Leave, Madam, in this respect to be the judge; perhaps every one +is not bless'd with that _happy_ indifference.--What may be very +_immaterial_ to _one_,--may be matter of the _highest_ importance to +_another_. + +He pronounced the word _immaterial_, with some marks of displeasure. I +was greatly embarrass'd: I thought our conversation would soon become +too interesting. + +I knew not what to do.--I attempted to give it a different turn; yet it +engrossed all my attention.--At length I succeeded by introducing my +comical adventure at the inn, in our way to Oxfordshire: but the +officer's name had escaped my memory, though I since recollect it to be +Risby. + +This subject engaged us till we came within sight of the drawing-room +windows.--There are the visitors, as I live! said I. Your Lordship not +being dress'd, will, I suppose, order the coach to the other door.--To +be plain, I was glad of any excuse that would prevent my getting out +before them.--Not _I_, indeed, Miss Warley, reply'd he:--Dress is never +of consequence enough to draw me two steps out of my way.--If the +spectators yonder will fix their eyes on an old coat rather than a fine +young Lady, _why_ they have it for their pains. + +By this time the door was open'd, and Sir James appearing, led me, with +his usual politeness, to the company. I was placed by her Ladyship next +Miss Winter, whose person I cannot say prejudiced me in her favour, +being entirely dispossessed of that winning grace which attracts +strangers at a first glance. + +After measuring me with her eye from head to toe, she sent my dimensions +in a kind of half smile across the room to Lord Baily; then vouchsafed +to ask, how long I had been in this part of the world? which question +was followed by fifty others, that shewed she laboured under the violent +thirst of curiosity; a thirst never to be conquered; for, like dropsical +people, the more they drink in, the more it rages. + +My answers were such as I always return to the inquisitive.--Yes, +Madam;--No, Madam;--very well;--very good;--not certain;--quite +undetermin'd.--Finding herself unsuccessful with _me_, she apply'd to +_Lady Powis_; but alas! poor maiden, she could drain nothing from that +fountain; the streams would not flow;--they were driven back, by +endeavouring to force them into a wrong channel. + +These were not certainly her first defeats, by the clever way of hiding +her chagrin:--it is gone whilst she adjusts the flower in her bosom,--or +opens and shuts her fan twice.--How can _she_ be mortified by +trifles,--when the _Lord_ of _her heart_,--the sweet, simpering, +fair-faced, Lord Baily keeps his eyes incessantly fixed on her, like +centinels on guard?--They cannot speak, _indeed they cannot_, or I +should expect them to call out every half hour, "All is well." + +I admire Lord and Lady Allen. I say, I admire them: their manners are +full of easy freedom, pleasing vivacity.--I cannot admire all the world; +I wish I could.--Mr. and Mrs. Winter happen not to suit my taste;--they +are a kind of people who look down on every one of middle +fortune;--seem to despise ancestry,--yet are always fond of mixing with +the great.--Their rise was too sudden;--they jump'd into life all at +once.--Such quick transitions require great equality of mind;--the blaze +of splendor was too much for their _weak_ eyes;--the _flare_ of surprise +is still visible. + +It was some time before the conversation became general.--First, and +ever to have precedence,--the weather;--next, roads;--then +houses,--plantations,--fashions,--dress,--equipage;--and last of all, +politics in a thread-bare coat. + +About ten minutes before dinner, Lord Darcey joined us, dress'd most +magnificently in a suit of olive velvet, embroider'd with gold;--his +hair without powder, which became him infinitely.--He certainly appear'd +to great advantage:--how could it be otherwise, when in company with +that tawdry, gilded piece of clay?--And to sit by him, of all +things!--One would really think it had been designed:--_some_ exulted, +_some_ look'd mortified at the contrast.--Poor Miss Winter's seat began +to grow very uneasy;--she tried every corner, yet could not vary the +light in which she saw the _two opposites_.--Why did she frown on +_me?_--why cast such contemptuous glances every time I turn'd my eye +towards her?--Did _I_ recommend the daubed coxcomb;--or represent that +her future joys depended on title?--No! it was vanity, the love of +grandeur,--that could make her give up fine sense, fine accomplishments, +a princely address, and all the noble requisites:--yes, my Lady, such a +one, Lord Darcey tells me, she has refused.--Refused, for what? For +folly, a total ignorance in the polite arts, and a meaness of manners +not to be express'd: yet, I dare say, she thinks, the sweet sounds of +_my Lady_, and _your Ladyship_ is _cheaply_ purchased by such a +sacrifice. + +When we moved to go into the dining-parlour, Miss Winter bow'd for me to +follow Lady Allen and her mother; which after I had declined, Lady Powis +took me by the hand, and said, smiling, No, Madam, Miss Warley is one of +us.--If _so_, my Lady--and she swam out of the room with an air I shall +never forget. + +Lord Darcey took his place at table, next Lord Allen;--I sat opposite, +with Miss Winter on my right, and Lord Baily on my left.--Sorry I was, +to step between the Lovers; but ceremony required it; so I hope they do +not hate me on that account.--Lord Allen has a good deal of archness in +his countenance, though not of the ill-natur'd kind.--I don't know how, +but every time he look'd across the table I trembled; it seem'd a +foreboding of what was to follow. + +He admired the venison;--said it was the best he had ever tasted from +Sir James's park;--but declared he would challenge him next Monday, if +all present would favour him with their company.--Lady Allen seconded +the request so warmly, that it was immediately assented to.-- + +What think you, said his Lordship it is to the _young_ folks that I +address myself, of seeing before you a couple who that day has been +married twenty years, and never frown'd on one another? + +Think! said Lord Darcey, it is very possible. + +_Possible_ it certainly is, reply'd Lady Powis; but very few instances, +I believe-- + +What say you, Miss Warley? ask'd his Lordship: you find Lord Darcey +supposes it very possible.--Good God! I thought I should have sunk: it +was not so much the question, as the manner he express'd it in. I felt +as if my face was stuck full of needles: however, I stifled my +confusion, and reply'd, I was quite of Lady Powis's opinion. + +Well, what say you, Miss Winter? + +How I rejoiced! I declare I could hardly contain my joy, when he +address'd himself to her. + +What say I, my Lord? return'd she; why, _truly_, I think it must be your +own faults, if you are not treated _civilly_.--The Devil! cry'd he. + +O fie! O fie! my Lord, squeaked my left hand neighbour.--And why O fie! +retorted his Lordship: Is _civility_ all we have to expect? + +We can _claim_ nothing else said the squeaker.--If the dear creatures +condescend to _esteem_ us, we ought to consider it a particular +indulgence. + +And so, Miss Warley, cry'd Lord Allen, we are only to be _esteemed_ +now-a-days. I thank God my good woman has imbibed none of those modern +notions. Her actions have convinced the world of that long ago. + +Poh! my Lord, said Lady Allen, we are old-fashion'd people:--you must +not talk thus before Gentlemen and Ladies bred in the present age. + +Come, come, let me hear Lord Darcey speak to this point, continued his +Lordship. He is soon to be _one of us_;--we shall shortly, I am told, +salute him _Benedick_. + +On this Sir James threw down his knife and fork with emotion, crying, +This is news, indeed! This is what I never heard before! Upon my word, +your Lordship has been very secret! looking full at Lord Darcey. But you +are of _age_, my Lord, so I have no _right_ to be consulted; however, I +should be glad to know, who it is that runs away with your heart. This +was spoke half in jest, half in earnest. + +In a moment my neck and face were all over crimson.--I felt the colour +rise;--it was not to be suppress'd.--I drew my handkerchief from my +pocket;--held it to my face;--hemm'd;--call'd for wine and +water;--which, when brought, I could scarcely swallow; spoke in a low +voice to Miss Winter;--said she had a poor stomach, or something like +it. + +Lord Darcey too was confus'd.--Why did I look up to him?--He was pale, +instead of red.--I saw his lips move, but could not hear what he said +for more than a minute; occasion'd by an uncommon noise which just then +rush'd through my head:--at length sounds grew distinct, and I heard +this sentence--_every_ word is inscribed where it can _never_ be +erazed-- + +Upon my honour. Lord Allen, I have never made proposals to any woman; +and _further_, it is a matter of doubt, whether I ever shall. + +By this time I had lost all my colour;--charming cool--and calm,--no +perturbation remaining. + +Nothing disagreeable now hung on my mind, except a certain +thoughtfulness, occasion'd by the recollection of my folly.-- + +Miss Winter's eyes sparkled, if it is possible for grey ones to sparkle, +at the declaration Lord Darcey had just made; and, of a sudden, growing +very fond of _me_, laid her hand on mine, speaking as it were +aside,--Well, I was never _more_ surprized! I as _much_ believed him +engaged to a _certain_ young Lady,--squeezing my thumb,--as I think I am +living.--Nay, I would not have credited the contrary, had I not heard +him declare off with my _own_ ears.--I see how it is; Sir James must +chuse a wife for him.-- + +To all which I only answered, Lord Darcey, Madam, is certainly the best +judge of his actions:--I make no doubt but Sir James will approve his +Lordship's choice. + +After what I have related, common subjects ensued:--the cloth being +removed, I withdrew to the Library, intending to sit with Mr. Watson +half an hour, who was confined by a cold. He holds out his hand to take +mine the moment he hears my footstep.--I look on him as an angel: his +purity, his mildness, his resignation speak him one.-- + +Lord Darcey entered as I was about to join the company; however, I staid +some minutes, that my quitting the room might not seem on _his_ account. + +I am glad you are come, my Lord, said Mr. Watson; sitting with such a +poor infirm man has made Miss Warley thoughtful.--Upon my word, Sir, +returned I, it was only the fear of increasing your head-ach that me +silent.--I never was in higher spirits.--I could sing and dance this +very moment. Well then, dear Miss Warley, cried his Lordship, let me +fetch your _guitarre_. + +With all my heart, my Lord; I am _quite_ in tune.--Taking leave of Mr. +Watson, I return'd to the company.--His Lordship soon followed. Again +repeating his request, in which every person join'd, I sung and play'd +several compositions. + +Miss Winter was next call'd upon and the guitarre presented to her by +Lord Darcey.--A long time she absolutely refused it; declaring she had +not learnt any new music this year.--What does that signify, Miss +Winter? said her mother; you know you have a sweet voice. + +Bless me! Madam! how can you say so?--To be sure, I should sing to great +advantage _now_. + +Well, Nancy, you'll oblige _Papa?_--says the old Gentleman; I know +you'll oblige _Papa_,--stalking over to her on the tops of his toes. + +Here the contest ended; _Miss_ taking the guitarre, condescended to +oblige her _Papa_. + +She really sings and plays well:--if her manner had been less affected, +we should have been more entertain'd.--The company staid supper, after +which Lord Darcey came with me home.--I made _no_ objection:--of all +things, I would make _none_--after what pass'd at table. Fortunate +event! how I rejoice in my recovered tranquillity! + +The thoughts, the pleasing thoughts of freedom have kept me from sleep; +I could not think of repose amidst my charming reflections. Happy, happy +change! + +It is past two o'clock!--At all times and all seasons, + +I am, my dear Lady, + +Yours invariably, + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XVII. + +Miss WARLEY to the same. + +_From Mr. Jenkings's_. + + +Sent for before breakfast!--Nobody in the coach!--Well, I am glad of +that, however.--Something very extraordinary must have happen'd.--I hope +Lady Powis is not ill.--No other message but to desire I would come +immediately.--I go, my dear Lady; soon as I return will acquaint you +what has occasion'd me this _early_ summons. + + +Eight o'clock at Night. + +No ill news! quite the reverse:--I am escaped from the house of +festivity to make your Ladyship a partaker. + +My spirits are in a flutter.--I know not where to begin.--I have run +every step of the way, till I am quite out of breath.--Mr. Powis is +coming home,--absolutely coming home to settle;--married _too_, but I +cannot tell all at once.--Letters with an account of it have been this +morning receiv'd. He does not say _who_ his wife is, only one of the +best women in the world. + +She will be received with affection;--I know she will.--Lady Powis +declares, they shall be folded together in her arms. + +It was too much for Sir James, he quite roared again when he held out to +me the letter,--I don't believe he has eat a morsel this day.--I never +before saw a man so affected with joy.--Thank God! I left him pure and +calm. + +The servants were like mad creatures, particularly those who lived in +the family before Mr. Powis left England.--He seems, in short, to be +considered as one risen from the dead.-- + +I was in such haste on receiving Lady Powis's message, that I ran down +to the coach, my hat and cloak in my hand.--Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings were +talking to the coachman.--I soon perceived by them something pleasing +had happen'd.--They caught me in their arms, and I thought would have +smother'd me in their embraces; crying out, Mr. Powis is coming home, my +dear;--Mr. Powis is coming home:--for God's sake, Madam, make haste up +to the Hall. + +In getting into the coach, I stepp'd on my apron, and fell against the +opposite door.--My right arm was greatly bruis'd, which I did not +perceive till I drew on my glove. + +The moment I alighted, I ran to the breakfast-parlour; but finding no +one there, went directly to her Ladyship's dressing-room.--She open'd +the door, when she heard me coming. I flew to her.--I threw my arms +about her neck, and all I could say in my hurry was, Joy, Joy, Joy! + +I am all joy, my love, she return'd--I am made up of nothing else. I +quitted her to run to Sir James, who was sitting in a great chair with a +letter held out. I believe I kiss'd him twenty times before I took +it;--there could be no harm in that surely.--Such endearments I should +have shewn my father, on the like tender occasion. He wept, as I have +said, till he quite roared again.--I laid his head on my shoulder, and +it was some time before I would mention his son's name. + +Lord Darcey held one of Sir James's hands: he was in the room when I +enter'd; but I declare I never saw him till he spoke. He is safe +_now_,--after what happened yesterday,--safe from any imputation on _my_ +account-- + +Very kind and very civil, upon my word! O! your Ladyship never heard +such a fuss as he made about the scratch on my arm.--I affect to look +pleased when he speaks to me, that he might not take it into his head I +am mortified. + +He must be the happiest creature in the world; I honour him for the +grateful affection he shews Sir James and Lady Powis. + +Breakfast stood on the table: not a soul had broke their fast.--Her +Ladyship was here, there, and every where.--I was sadly afraid they +would be all sick; at length I prevailed on them to drink a cup of +chocolate.-- + +Mr. Watson, good man notwithstanding his indisposition, got up at +eleven.--I met him coming from his apartment, and had the pleasure of +leading him to the happy family.-- + +His congratulations were delivered with such serene joy,--such warmth of +affection,--as if he had cull'd the heart-felt satisfaction of both +_parents_. + +The word _happy_ echoed from every mouth; each sentence began and ended +with it.--What the heart feels is seldom to be disguised.--Grief will +speak,--if not by the tongue, it will out;--it hangs on the features, +sallows the skin, withers the sinews, and is a galling weight that +pulls towards the ground.--Why should a thought of grief intrude at this +time?--Is not my dear Lady Mary's health returning?--Is not felicity +restor'd to this family?--Now will my regret at parting be +lessened;--now shall I leave every individual with minds perfectly at +ease. + +Mr. Powis is expected in less than a month, intending to embark in the +next ship after the Packet.--How I long to see him!--But it is very +unlikely I should; I shall certainly have taken my leave of this place +before he arrives.--By your Ladyship's permission, I hope to look in +upon them, at our return to England. + +What genteel freedoms men give themselves after _declaring off_, as Miss +Winter calls it?--I had never so many fine things said to me before;--I +can't tell how many;--quite a superabundance;--and before Sir James +_too!_--But no notice is taken; he has cleared himself of all +suspicion.--He may go to town as soon as he will.--His business is +done;--yes, he did it yesterday. + +I wish I may not laugh out in the midst of his fine speeches.-- + +I wish your Ladyship could see this cool attention I give him.--But I +have nettled him to the truth this afternoon:--his pride was +alarm'd;--it could certainly proceed from _no other_ cause, after he has +_declared off_. + +I was sitting at the tea-table, a trouble I always take from Lady Powis, +who with Sir James was walking just without the windows, when Lord +Darcey open'd the door, and said, advancing towards me with affected +airs of admiration,--How proud should I be to see my house and table so +graced!--Then leaning over the back of my chair, Well, my angel! how is +the bad arm? Come, let me see, attempting to draw off my glove. + +Oh! quite well, my Lord; withdrawing my hand carelessly. + +For heaven's sake, take more care of yourself, Miss Warley; this might +have been a sad affair. + +Depend on that, my Lord, for my own sake. + +For your _own sake!_ Not in consideration of any _other_ person? + +Yes; of _Lady Mary Sutton, Sir James_ and _Lady Powis, good Mr. +Jenkings_ and _his wife_, who I know would be concerned was I to suffer +much from any accident. + +Then there is no _other_ person you would wish to preserve your life +for? + +Not that I know at present, my Lord, + +Not that you know at _present!_ so you think you may one day or _other?_ + +I pretend not, my Lord, to answer for what _may_ happen; I have never +seen the _person_ yet. I was going to say something further, I have +really forgot what, when he turn'd from me, and walked up and down the +room with a seeming discomposure. + +_If_ you are sincere in what you have said, _Miss Warley_; _if_ you are +_really_ sincere, I do pronounce--Here he burst open the door, and flew +out the instant Sir James and Lady Powis entered. + +When the tea was made, a footman was sent to Lord Darcey; but he was no +where to be found. + +This is very strange, said her Ladyship; Lord Darcey never used to be +out of the way at tea-time. I declare I am quite uneasy; perhaps he may +be ill. + +Oh! cry'd Sir James, don't hurry yourself; I warrant he is got into one +of his old reveries, and forgets the time. + +I was quite easy. I knew his abrupt departure was nothing but an +air:--an air of consequence, I suppose.--However, I was willing to be +convinced, so did not move till I saw the Gentleman sauntering up the +lawn. As no one perceived him but myself, I slid out to the housekeeper, +and told her, if her Lady enquir'd for me, I was gone home to write +Letters by to-morrow's post. + +You have enough of it now, I believe, my dear Lady; two long letters by +the same packet:--but you are the repository of my joy, my grief, the +very inmost secrets of my soul.--You, my dear Lady, have the whole heart +of + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XVIII. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Ruin'd and undone, as I hope for mercy!--undone too by my own egregious +folly!--She is quite lost,--quite out of my power.--I wish Lord Allen +had been in the bottom of the sea;--he can never make me amends;--no, if +he was to die to-morrow and leave me his whole fortune.-- + +I told you he was to dine here yesterday.--I cannot be +circumstantial.--He did dine here;--to my utter sorrow he did. + +Oh what a charming morning I spent!--Tho' my angel persisted in going to +France, yet it was in a manner that made me love her, if possible, ten +thousand times more than ever.--Good God! had you seen how she +look'd!--But no matter now;--I must forget her angelical +sweetness.--Forget did I say?--No, by heaven and earth--she lives in +every corner of my heart.--I wish I had told her my whole soul.--I was +going to tell her, if I had not been interrupted.--It is too late +now.--She would not hear me: I see by her manners she would not hear me. +She has learnt to look with indifference:--even smiles with +indifference.--Why does she not frown? That would be joy to what her +smiles afford.--I hate such smiles; they are darts dipp'd in poison.-- + +Lord Allen said he heard I was going to be marry'd:--_What was that to +him?_--Sir James look'd displeased. To quiet _his_ fears I assured +him--God! I know not what I assured _him_--something very foreign from +my heart. + +She blushed when Sir James asked, to whom?--With what raptures did I +behold her blushes!--But she shrunk at my answer.--I saw the colour +leave her cheek, like a rose-bud fading beneath the hoary frost. + +I _will_ know my fate.--Twill be with you in a few days,--if Sir James +should consent.--_What if he should consent?_--She is steeled against my +vows--my protestations;--my words affect her not;--the most tender +assiduities are disregarded:--she seems to attend to what I say, yet +regards it not. + +Where are those looks of preference fled,--those expressive looks?--I +saw them not till now:--it is their loss,--it is their sad reverse that +tells me what they were. She turns not her head to follow my foot-steps +at parting;--or when I return, does not proclaim it by advancing +pleasure tip-toe to the windows of her soul.--No anxiety for my health! +No, she cares not what becomes of me.--I complain'd of my head, said I +was in great pain;--heaven knows how true! My complaints were +disregarded.--I attended her home. She sung all the way; or if she +talked, it was of music:--not a word of _my poor head_;--no charges to +draw the glasses up going back. + +There was a time, Molesworth--there was a time, if my finger had but +ached, it was, My Lord, you look ill. Does not Lady Powis persuade you +to have advice? You are really too careless of your health. + +Shall she be _another's?_--Yes; when I shrink at sight of what lies +yonder,--my sword, George;--that shall prevent her ever being +_another's_. + +Tell me you believe she will be _mine_:--it may help to calm my +disturbed mind.--Be sure you do not hint she will be _another's_. + +Have I told you, Mr. Powis is coming home?--I cannot recollect whether I +have or not;--neither can I pain myself to look back. + +All the world has something to comfort them, but your poor +friend.--Every thing wears the face of joy, till I turn my eyes +inwards:--_there it is_ I behold the opposite;--_there it is_ where +Grief has fix'd her abode.--Does the fiend ever sleep? Will she be +composed by ushering in the happy prospects of others?--Yes, I will +feel, joy.--Joy did I say? Joy I cannot feel.--Satisfaction +then?--Satisfaction likewise is forbid to enter.--What then will +possess my mind; on recollecting peace is restor'd, where gratitude +calls for such large returns?--I'll pray for them;--I'll pray for a +continuance of their felicity.--I'll pray, if they have future ills in +store, they may light on the head of Darcey.--Yes, he can bear more +yet:--let the load be ever so heavy, he will stoop to take up the +burthen of his friends;--such friends as Sir James and Lady Powis have +been to + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XIX. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to LORD DARCEY. + +London. + + +Well, give me the first salute of your fair bride;--_and for your bride_ +I'll ensure Miss Warley.--Why there is not a symptom but is in your +favour.--She is nettled; can't you perceive it?--Once a studied +disregard takes place, we are safe:--nothing will hurt you _now_, my +Lord.-- + +You have been stuttering falsehoods.--From what I can gather, you have +been hushing the Baronet at the expence of your own and Miss Warley's +quiet.--If you have, never mind it; things may not be the worse.--Come +away, I advise you; set out immediately.--See how she looks at +parting.--But don't distress her;--I charge you not to distress +her.--Should you play back her own cards, I will not answer for the +pride of the sex.-- + +Sir James's consent once gained, and she rejects your proposals, lay all +your letters to me on the subject before her.--I have them by me.--These +cannot fail of clearing every doubt; she will be convinced then how +sincerely you have loved her.-- + +You surprise me concerning Mr. Powis:--I thought he was settled in his +government for life;--or rather, for the life of his father.--However, I +am convinced his coming over will be no bad thing for you;--he has +suffered too much from avarice, not to assist another so hardly beset.-- + +Was not his settling abroad an odd affair!--If he determined to remain +single till he had an opportunity of pleasing himself, why did he leave +England?--The mortification could not be great to have his overtures +refused, where they were made with such indifference.-- + +As he has lived so many years a batchelor, I suppose there will be now +an end to that great family.-- + +What a leveller is avarice! How does it pull down by attempting to +raise? How miserable, as Seneca says, in the desire?--how miserable in +attaining our ends?--The same great man alledges, that as long as we are +solicitous for the increase of wealth, we lose the true use of it; and +spend our time in putting out, calling in, and passing our accounts, +without any substantial benefit, either to the world, or to ourselves.-- + +If you had ever any uneasiness on Bridgman's account, it must be now at +an end.--Married, and has brought his bride to town.--What a false +fellow!--From undoubted authority, I am assured the writings have been +drawn six months:--so that every thing must be concluded between him and +his wife, at the very time he talked to me of Miss Warley.--I wash my +hands from any further acquaintance with concealed minds:--there must be +something very bad in a heart which has a dark cloud drawn before +it.--Virtue and innocence need no curtain:--they were sent to us +naked;--it is their loss, or never possessing them,--that makes caution +necessary, to hide from the world their destined place of +abode.--Without entering a house, and being conversant with its +inhabitants, how is it possible to say, if they are worthy or +unworthy:--so if you knock, and are not admitted, you still remain +doubtful.--But I am grown wise from experience;--and shall judge, for +the future, where a heart is closely shut up, there is nothing in it +worth enquiring after. + +I go on Thursday to meet Risby, and conduct him to town. It would give +us great joy, at our return, to shake you by the hand.--What can avail +your staying longer in the midst of doubts, perplexities, racks, +tortures, and I know-not-what. Have you any more terms to express the +deadly disorder?--If you have keep them to yourself; I want not the +confounded list compleat:--no; no, not I; faith.-- + +I go this evening to see the new play, which is at present a general +subject of conversation.--Now, was I a vain fellow--a boaster--would I +mention four or six of the prettiest women about town, and swear I was +to escort them.--Being a lover of truth, I confess I shall steal alone +into an upper box, to fix my attention on the performance of the +piece.--Perhaps, after all is over, I may step to the box of some +sprightly, chatty girl, such as lady ----,--hear all the scandal of the +town, ask her opinion of the play, hand her to her chair, and so home, +to spend a snug evening with sir Edward Ganges, who has promised to meet +me here at ten. + +Yours, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XX. + +Lady MARY SUTTON to Miss WARLEY. + +_German Spaw_. + + +No, my dear, _Lord Darcey_ is not the man he appears.--What signifies a +specious outside, if within there's a narrow heart?--Such must be his, +to let a virtuous love sit imprisoned in secret corners, when it +delights to dwell in open day. + +Perhaps, if he knew my intentions, all concealments would be thrown +aside, and he glory to declare what at present he meanly darkly +hints.--By my consent, you should never give your hand to one who can +hold the treasures of the mind in such low estimation. + +When you mention'd your happy situation, the friendly treatment of Sir +James and Lady Powis, I was inclined to think for _many_ reasons, it +would be wrong to take you from them;--_now_ I am convinced, the pain +_that_ must occasion, or the danger in crossing the sea, is not to be +compared to what you might suffer in your _peace_ by remaining where you +are.--When people of Lord Darcey's rank weigh long a matter of this +nature, it is seldom the scale turns of the right side;--therefore, let +not _Hope_, my dear child, flatter you out of your affections. + +Do not think you rest in security:--tender insinuations from a man such +as you describe Lord Darcey, may hurt your quiet. + +I speak not from experience;--Nature, by cloathing me in her plainest +garb, has put all these hopes and fears far from me. + +I have been ask'd, it is true, often, for my fortune;--at least, I look +upon asking for my heart to be the same thing.--Sure, I could never be +such a fool to part with the latter, when I well knew it was requested +only to be put in possession of the former! + +_You_ think Jenkings suspects his son has a _too_ tender regard for +you;--_you_ think he is uneasy on that account.--Perhaps he is +uneasy;--but time will convince you his suspicions, his uneasiness, +proceed not from the _cause you imagine_.--He is a good man; you cannot +think too well of him. + +I hope this letter will find you safe return'd to Hampshire. I am +preparing to leave the Spaw with all possible expedition: I should quit +it with reluctance, but for the prospect of visiting it again next +summer, with my dear Fanny. + +At Montpelier the winter will slide on imperceptibly: many agreeable +families will there join us from the Spaw, whose good-humour and +chearful dispositions, together with plentiful draughts of the Pouhon +Spring, have almost made me forget the last ten years I have dragg'd, on +in painful sickness. + +The family in which I have found most satisfaction, is Lord +Hampstead's:--every way calculated to make themselves and others +happy;--such harmony is observed through the whole, that the mechanism +of the individuals seem to be kept in order by one common wheel.--I +rejoice that I shall have an opportunity of introducing you to them.--We +have fixed to set out the same day for Montpelier. + +Lady Elizabeth, the eldest daughter, has obligingly offer'd to travel in +my coach, saying, she thought it would be dull for me to go alone. + +It is impossible to say which of the two sisters, was it left to my +choice, would be my companion, as both are superlatively pleasing.--They +possess, to a degree, what I so much admire in our sex;--a peculiar +softness in the voice and manner; yet not quite so sprightly, perhaps, +as may be thought necessary for some misses started up in this age; but +sufficient, I think, for those who keep within certain bounds.--It +requires an uncommon share of understanding, join'd with a great share +of wit, to make a very lively disposition agreeable. I allow, if these +two ingredients are happily blended, none can chuse but admire, as well +as be entertain'd with, such natural fine talents:--on the contrary, +where one sees a pert bold girl apeing such rare gifts, it is not only +the most painful, but most absurd sight on earth. + +Lady Elizabeth, and her amiable sister Sophia strive to hide every +perfection they possess;--yet these I have just mention'd, with all +others, will on proper occasions, make their appearance through a croud +of blushes.--This timidity proceeds partly from nature,--partly from the +education they have received under the best of mothers, whose tenderness +for them would not suffer her to assign that momentous task to any but +herself; fearing, as she has often told me, they would have had a +thousand faults overlook'd by another, which her eye was ever on the +watch to discover. She well knew the most trivial might be to them of +the worst consequence:--when they were call'd to an account for what was +pass'd, or warn'd how to avoid the like for the future, her manner was +so determin'd and persuasive, as if she was examining her own +conscience, to rectify every spot and blemish in it. + +Though Lady Hampstead's fondness for her daughters must cause her to +admire their good qualities, like a fine piece of perspective, whose +beauties grow upon the eye,--yet she has the art not only to conceal her +admiration, but, by the ascendency her tenderness has gain'd, she keeps +even from themselves a knowledge of those perfections.--To this is owing +the humility which has fortified their minds from the frequent attacks +flattery makes against the unstable bulwarks of title and beauty. + +Matchless as these sisters appear, they are to be equalled in their own, +as well as the other sex.--I hope you will allow it in _one_, when you +see Lord Hallum: he is their brother as much by _virtue_ as _birth_.--I +could find in my heart to say a thousand things of this fine youth;--but +that I think such subjects flow easier from a handsome young woman than +a plain old one.--Yet don't be surpriz'd;--unaccountable things happen +every day;--if I _should_ lend a favourable ear to this +Adonis!--Something whispers me I shall receive his proposals.--An +excuse, on these occasions, is never wanting; mine will be a good +one:--that, at my death, you may be left to the protection of this +worthy Lord.--But, first, I must be assured you approve of him in that +light;--being so firmly attach'd to my dear Fanny, to your happiness, +my Love, that the wish of contributing to it is the warmest of your +ever affectionate + +M. SUTTON. + + + + +LETTER XXI. + +Lord DARCEY to the Hon. GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Alley_. + + +Five days more, and I am with you.--Saturday morning!--Oh that I may +support the hour of trial with fortitude!--I tremble at the thought;--my +blood freezes in my veins, when I behold the object I am to part from.-- + +I try in vain to keep out of her sight:--if I attempt to leave the room +where she is, my resolutions are baffled before I reach the door.--Why +do I endeavour to inflict so hard a penance!--Because I foolishly +suppose it would wean me.--Wean me _from what?_--From virtue.--No, +Molesworth, it is not _absence_;--it is not _time_ itself can deaden the +exalted image;--it neither sickens or dies, it blooms to immortality, + +Was I only to be parted from beauty, _that_ I might meet again in every +town and village.--I want you to force me from the house.--Suppose I get +up early, and slip away without taking leave.--But that will not +do;--Sir James is ceremonious;--Lady Powis may deem it +disrespect;--above all, Miss Warley, _that dear, dear Miss Warley_,--if +_she_ should think me wanting in regard, all then must be at an end. + +Ha! Sir James yonder on the terrace, and alone! Let me examine his +countenance:--I see no clouds;--this is the time, if ever!--Miss Warley +not yet come up from Jenkings's!--If successful, with what transports +shall I run to fetch her!--_Yes, I will_ venture;--_I will_ have one +trial, as I hope for mercy.-- + + * * * * * + +_As I hope for mercy_, I see, were my last words.--I do indeed hope for +it, but never from Sir James. + +Still perplexed;--still miserable!-- + +I told you Miss Warley was not come from Jenkings's; but how I started, +when I saw her going to Lady Powis's dressing-room! + +I was hurried about her in a dream, last night.--I thought I had lost +her:--I hinted it when we met;--that moment I fancied she eyed me with +regard;--she spoke _too_ in a manner very different from what she has +done some days past.--Then I'll swear it,--for it was not illusion, +George,--her whole face had something of a sweet melancholy spread over +it;--a kind of resignation in her look;--a melting softness that droop'd +on her cheek:--I felt what it expressed;--it fir'd my whole frame;--it +sent me to Sir James with redoubled eagerness. + +I found him thoughtful and complaisant: we took several turns, before I +could introduce my intended subject; when, talking of my setting out, I +said, Now I have an opportunity, Sir James, perhaps I may not have +another before I go, I should be glad of your sentiments in regard to my +settling in life.-- + +How do you mean, my Lord; as to the choice of a wife?-- + +Why, I think, Sir, there's no other way of settling to one's +satisfaction. + +To be sure, it is very necessary your Lordship should consider on those +matters,--especially as you are the last of a noble family:--when, you +do fix, I hope it will be _prudently_. + +_Prudently_, Sir James! you may depend on it I will never settle my +affections _imprudently_. + +Wall, but, my Lord, what are your notions of _prudence?_ + +Why, Sir, to make choice of a person who is virtuous, sensible, well +descended.--_Well descended Jenkings has assured me she is_. + +You say nothing, my Lord, of what is _most_ essential to +happiness;--nothing of the _main point_. + +Good-nature, I suppose you mean:--I would not marry an ill-natur'd +woman, Sir James, for the world. And is good-nature, with those you +have mention'd, the only requisites? + +I think they are the chief, Sir. + +You and I differ much, my Lord.--Your father left his estate encumbered; +it is not yet clear; you are of age, my Lord: pray, spare yourself the +trouble of consulting me, if you do not think of _fortune_. + +Duty to the memory of my rever'd father, the affection and gratitude I +owe you, Sir James, calls for my obedience:--without _your_ sanction, +Sir, never shall my hand be given. + +He seem'd pleas'd: I saw tears starting to his eyes; but still he was +resolv'd to distress me. + +Look about you, my child; look about you, Darcey;--there's Lady Jane +Marshly, Miss Beaden, or--and was going on. + +Pardon me, Sir James, for interrupting you; but really, I cannot take +any Lady on recommendation: I am very difficult, perhaps _perverse_ in +this point; my first attachment must be merely accidental. + +Ah! these are the notions that ruin half the young fellows of this +age.--_Accidental likings_--_First love_,--and the devil knows what, +runs away with half the old family estates.--Why, the least thing men +ought to expect, even if they marry for _love_, is six-pence for a +shilling.--Once for all, my Lord, I must tell you, your _interest_ is to +be consulted before your _inclinations_. + +_Don't_ be ruffled, Sir James; _don't_ let us talk warmly of a matter +which perhaps is at a great distance. + +I wish it may be at a _great distance_, my Lord.--_If what I conjecture +is true_--Here he paus'd, and look'd so sternly, that I expected all +would out. + +What do you _conjecture_, Sir?--Yes, I ask'd him what.-- + +Your Lordship must excuse my answering that question. _I hope_ I am +wrong;--_I hope_ such a thing never enter'd your thoughts:--if it +has--and he mutter'd something I could not understand; only I heard +distinctly the words _unlucky_,--_imprudent_,--_unforeseen_.--I knew +enough of their meaning to silence me.--Shaking him by the hand, I said, +Well, Sir James, if you please, we will drop this subject for the +present.--On which the conversation ended. + +What a deal of patience and philosophy am I master of, to be here at my +pen, whilst two old men are sucking in the honey which I should lay up +for a winter's store?--Like Time, nothing can stand before her:--she +mows down all ages.--Even Morgan, that man who us'd to look on a fine +woman with more indifference than a horse or dog,--is now +new-moulded;--not one oath in the space where I have known twenty escape +him:--instead of following his dogs the whole morning, he is eternally +with the ladies. + +If he rides out with my angel, for he's determin'd, he says, to make her +a complete horsewoman, I must not presume to give the least direction, +or _even_ touch the bridle. + +I honour him for the tender regard he shews her:--yes, I go further; +_he_ and _Mr. Watson_ may _love_ her;--they do _love_ her, and glory in +declaring it.--I _love_ them in return;--but they are the only two, of +all the race of batchelors within my knowledge, that should make _such_ +a declaration with impunity. + +Let me see: I shall be in London Saturday evening;--Sunday, no +post;--Monday, _then_ I determine to write to Sir James;--Wednesday, I +may have an answer;--_Thursday_,--who knows but _Thursday!_--nothing is +impossible; who knows but _Thursday_ I may return to all my hopes?--How +much I resemble a shuttlecock! how am I thrown from side to side by hope +and fear; now up, now down; no sooner mounted by one hand than lower'd +by another! + +This moment a gleam of comfort steals sweetly through my heart;--but it +is gone even before I could bid it welcome.--Why so fast!--to what spot +is it fled?--Can there be a wretch more in need, who calls louder for +its charitable ray than + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XXII. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON + +_From Mr. Jenkings's_ + + +Now, my dear Lady, the time is absolutely fix'd for our embarkation; the +22d, without fail.--Mr. Smith intends coming himself, to accompany me to +London.--How very good and obliging this!--I shall say nothing of it to +Lady Powis, till Lord Darcey is gone, which will be Saturday:--_he_ may +go to France, if he pleases, but not with _me_.-- + +When I received Mrs. Smith's letter, he was mighty curious to know who +it was from:--I found him examining the seal, as it lay on the table in +Mr. Jenkings's parlour.--Here is a letter for you, Miss Warley, a good +deal confus'd.--So I see, my Lord: I suppose from Lady Mary Sutton. + +I fancy not;--it does not appear to be directed in the same hand with +that my servant brought you last from the post-office.--I broke the +seal; it was easy to perceive the contents gave me pleasure. + +There is something, Miss Warley, which gives you particular +satisfaction. + +You are right, my Lord, I never was better pleas'd. + +Then it is from Lady Mary? + +_No_, not from Lady Mary. + +From Mrs. Smith, _then?_--Do I guess _now?_--You say nothing; oh, there +it is.--I could not forbear smiling. + +Pray tell me, only _tell me_, and he caught one of my hands, if this +letter does not fix the _very_ day of your setting out for France? + +I thought him possest with the spirit of divination.--What could I do, +in this case?--Falshoods I despise;--evasions are low, _very_ low, +indeed:--yet I knew he ought not to be trusted with the contents, even +at the expence of my veracity--I recollected myself, and looked grave. + +My Lord, you must excuse me; this affair concerns only myself; even Lady +Powis will not be acquainted with it yet. + +I have done, if Lady Powis is not to be acquainted with it.--I have no +right--I say _right_.--Don't look so, Miss Warley--_believe I did flare +a little_--Time will unfold,--will cast a different light on things from +that in which you now see them. + +I was confus'd;--I put up my letter, went to the window, took a book +from thence, and open'd it, without knowing what I did. + +_Complete Pocket-Farrier; or, A Cure for all Disorders in Horses_, read +his Lordship aloud, looking over my shoulder; for such was the title of +the book. + +What have you here, my love? + +_My love_, indeed! Mighty free, mighty free, was it not, my Lady? I +could not avoid laughing at the drollery of this accident, or I should +have given him the look he deserved.--I thank God I am come to a state +of _indifference_; and my time here is so short, I would willingly +appear as little reserv'd as possible, that he might not think I have +chang'd my sentiments since his _declaring off_: though I must own I +have; but my pride will not suffer me to betray it to him. + +If he has distress'd me,--if he has led my heart a little astray,--I am +recovered now:--I have found out my mistake.--Should I suffer my eye to +drop a tear, on looking back, for the future it will be more +watchful;--it will guard, it will protect the poor wanderer. + +He is very busy settling his affairs with Sir James:--three hours were +they together with Mr. Jenkings in the library;--his books all pack'd up +and sent away, to be sure he does not intend returning _here_ again +soon. + +I suppose he will settle;--he talks of new furnishing his house;--has +consulted Lady Powis upon it.--If he did not intend marrying, if he had +no Lady in his eye-- + +But what is all this to me? Can he or his house be of any consequence to +my repose?--I enjoy the thoughts of going to France without him:--I +suppose he will think me very sly, but no matter.-- + +That good-natur'd creature Edmund would match me to a prince, was it in +his power.--He told me, yesterday, that he'd give the whole world, if I +was not to go to France.--Why so, Edmund?--I shall see you again, said +I, at my return to England. + +Ay, but what will _somebody do_, in the mean time? + +Who is _somebody?_ + +Can't you guess, Miss Warley? + +I do guess, Edmund. But you was never more mistaken; the person you mean +is not to be distress'd by _my_ absence. + +He is, upon my honour;--I know _he is_.--Lord Darcey loves you to +distraction. + +Poh! Edmund; don't take such things into your head: I know _you_ wish me +well; but don't be so sanguine!--Lord Darcey stoop to think of _me!_ + +Stoop to think of _you_, Miss Warley!--I am out of all patience: stoop +to think of _you!_--I shall never forget _that_.--Greatly as I honour +his Lordship, if he conceals his sentiments, if he trifles in an affair +of such importance,--was he the first duke in the kingdom, I hold him +below the regard even of such a one as _I_ am.--Pardon my curiosity, +madam, I mean no ill; but surely he has made proposals to you. + +Well, then, I will tell you, Edmund;--I'll tell you frankly, he never +_has_ made proposals:--and further, I can answer for him, he never +_will_.--His belief was stagger'd;--he stood still, his eyes fixed on +the ground. + +Are you _really_ in earnest, Miss Warley? + +Really, Edmund. + +Then, for heaven's sake, go to France.--But how can you tell, madam, he +never intends to make proposals? + +On which I related what passed at table, the day Lord Allen dined at the +Abbey.--Nothing could equal his astonishment; yet would he fain have +persuaded me that I did not understand him;--call'd it misapprehension, +and I know not what. + +He _will_ offer you his hand, Miss Warley; he certainly _will_.--I've +known him from a school-boy;--I'm acquainted with every turn of his +mind;--I know his very looks;--I have observ'd them when they have been +directed to you:--he will, I repeat,--he will offer you his hand. + +No! Edmund:--but if he _did_, his overtures should be disregarded. + +Say not so, Miss Warley; for God's sake, say not so again;--it kills me +to think you _hate_ Lord Darcey. + +I speak to you, Edmund, as a friend, as a brother:--never let what has +pass'd escape your lips. + +If I do, madam, what must I deserve?--To be shut out from your +confidence is a punishment only fit for such a breach of trust.--But, +for heaven's sake, do not _hate_ Lord Darcey. + +Mr. Jenkings appeared at this juncture, and look'd displeas'd.--How +strangely are we given to mistakes!--I betray'd the same confusion, as +if I had been really carrying on a clandestine affair with his son.--In +a very angry tone he said, I thought, Edmund, you was to assist me, +knowing how much I had on my hands, before Lord Darcey sets out;--but I +find business is not _your_ pursuit:--I believe I must consent to your +going into the army, after all.--On which he button'd up his coat, and +went towards the Abbey, leaving me quite thunderstruck. Poor Edmund was +as much chagrined as myself.--A moment after I saw Mr. Jenkings +returning with a countenance very different,--and taking me apart from +his son, said, I cannot forgive myself, my dear young Lady;--can you +forgive me for the rudeness I have just committed?--I am an old man, +Miss Warley;--I have many things to perplex me;--I should not,--I know I +should _not_, have spoke so sharply to Edmund, when you had honour'd him +with your company. + +I made him easy by my answer; and since I have not seen a cloud on his +brow.--I shall never think more, with concern, of Mr. Jenkings's +suspicions.--Your Ladyship's last letter,--oh! how sweetly tender! +tells me _he_ has _motives_ to which _I_ am a stranger. + +We spent a charming day, last Monday, at Lord Allen's. Most of the +neighbouring families were met there, to commemorate the happy +festival.--Mr. Morgan made one of the party, and return'd with us to the +Abbey, where he proposes waiting the arrival of his godson, Mr. +Powis.--If I have any penetration, most of his fortune will center +_there_,--For my part, I am not a little proud of stealing into his good +graces:--I don't know for what, but Lady Powis tells me, I am one of his +first favourites; he has presented me a pretty little grey horse, +beautifully caparison'd; and hopes he says, to make me a good +horsewoman. + +As I have promis'd to be at the Abbey early, I shall close this letter; +and, if I have an opportunity, will write another by the same +packet.--Believe me ever, my dearest Lady, your most grateful and +affectionate + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +END OF THE FIRST VOLUME. + + + + +BARFORD ABBEY, + +A NOVEL: + +IN A + +SERIES of LETTERS. + +IN TWO VOLUMES. + +VOL. II. + + +MDCCLXVIII. + + + + +BARFORD ABBEY. + + + + +LETTER XXIII. + +Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. + +_from Mr. Jenkings's_. + + +Oh what a designing man is Lord Darcey!--He loves me not, yet fain would +persuade me that he does.--When I went yesterday morning to the Abbey, I +met him in my way to Lady Powis's dressing-room.--Starting as if he had +seen an apparition, and with a look which express'd great importance, he +said, taking my hand, Oh! Miss Warley, I have had the most dreadful +night!--but I hope _you_ have rested well. + +I have rested very well, my Lord; what has disturb'd your Lordship's +rest? + +_What_, had it been _real_ as it was _visionary_, would have drove me to +madness.--I dreamt, Miss Warley,--I dreamt every thing I was possess'd +of was torn from me;--but now--_and here stopt_. + +Well, my Lord, and did not the pleasure of being undeceiv'd overpay all +the pain which you had been deceiv'd into? + +No, my angel!--_Why does he call me his angel?_ + +Why, no: I have such a sinking, such a load on my mind, to reflect it is +possible,--only possible it might happen, that, upon my word, it has +been almost too much for me. + +Ah! my Lord, you are certainly wrong to anticipate evils; they come fast +enough, one need not run to meet them:--besides, if your Lordship had +been in reality that very unfortunate creature, you dreamt you were, for +no rank or degree is proof against the caprice of Fortune,--was nothing +to be preserv'd entire?--Fortune can require only what she gave: +fortitude, peace, and resignation, are not her gifts. + +Oh! Miss Warley, you mistake: it was not riches I fancied myself +dispossess'd of;--it was, oh my God!--what my peace, my _very_ soul is +center'd in!--and his eyes turn'd round with so wild a stare, that +really I began to suspect his head. + +I trembled so I could scarce reach the dressing-room, though just at the +door.--The moment I turn'd from him, he flew like lightning over the +stairs; and soon after, I saw him walking with Sir James on the terrace. +By their gestures I could discover their conversation was not a common +one. + +Mr. Morgan comes this instant in sight;--a servant after him, leading my +little horse.--I am sorry to break off, but I must attend him;--he is so +good, I know your Ladyship would be displeas'd, was I to prolong my +letter at the expence of his favour.--Yours, my much honour'd,--my much +lov'd Lady,--with all gratitude, with all affection, + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XXIV. + +Miss WARLEY to the same. + +_From Mr. Jenkings's_. + + +Now, my dearest Lady, am I again perplex'd, doubting, and +embarrass'd:--yet Lord Darcey is gone,--gone this very morning,--about +an hour since. + +Well, I did not think it would evermore be in his power to distress +me;--but I have been distress'd,--greatly distress'd!--I begin to think +Lord Darcey sincere,--that he has always been sincere--He talks of next +_Thursday_, as a day to unravel great mysteries:--but I shall be far +enough by that time; sail'd, perhaps.--Likely, he said, I might know +before Thursday.--I wish any body could, tell me:--I fancy Sir James and +Lady Powis are in the secret. + +Mr. Jenkings is gone with his Lordship to Mr. Stapleton's,--about ten +miles this side London, on business of importance:--to-morrow he +returns; then I shall acquaint him with my leaving this place.--Your +Ladyship knows the motive why I have hitherto kept the day of my setting +out a secret from every person,--even from Sir James and Lady Powis. + +Yesterday, the day preceding the departure of Lord Darcey, I went up to +the Abbey, determin'd to exert my spirits and appear chearful, cost what +it would to a poor disappointed heavy heart.--Yes, it was +disappointed:--but till then I never rightly understood its +situation;--or perhaps would not understand it;--else I have not +examin'd it so closely as I ought, of late;--Not an unusual thing +neither: we often stop to enquire, what fine feat _that?_--whose +magnificent equipage _this?_--long to see and converse with persons so +surrounded with splendor;--but if one happen to pass a poor dark +cottage, and see the owner leaning on a crutch at the door, we are apt +to go by, without making any enquiry, or betraying a wish to be +acquainted with its misery.-- + +This was my situation, when I directed my steps to the Abbey.--I saw not +Lord Darcey in an hour after I came into the house;--when he join'd us, +he was dress'd for the day, and in one hand his own hat, in the other +mine, with my cloak, which he had pick'd up in the Vestibule:--he was +dreadfully pale;--complain'd of a pain in his head, which he is very +subject to;--said he wanted a walk;--and ask'd, if I would give him the +honour of my company.--I had not the heart to refuse, when I saw how ill +he look'd;--though for some days past, I have avoided being alone with +him as much as possible. + +We met Lady Powis returning from a visit to her poultry-yard.--Where are +my two runabouts going _now?_ she said.--Only for a little walk, madam, +reply'd Lord Darcey. + +You are a sauce-box, said she, shaking him by the hand;--but don't go, +my Lord, _too far_ with Miss Warley, nodding and smiling on him at the +same time.--She gave me a sweet affectionate kiss, as I pass'd her; and +cried out, You are a couple of pretty strollers, are you not!--But away +together; only I charge you, my Lord, calling after him, remember you +are not to go _too far_ with my dear girl. + +We directed our steps towards the walk that leads to the Hermitage, +neither of us seeming in harmony of spirits.--His Lordship still +complaining of his head, I propos'd going back before we had gone ten +paces from the house. + +Would Miss Warley then prevent me, said he, from the last satisfaction! +might ever enjoy?--You don't know, madam, how long--it is impossible to +say how long--if ever I should be so happy again--I look forward to +Wednesday with impatience;--if that should be propitious,--_Thursday_ +will unravel _mysteries_; it will clear up _doubts_;--it will perhaps +bring on an event which you, my dearest life, may in time reflect on +with pleasure;--you, my dearest life!--pardon the liberty,--by heaven! I +am sincere! + +I was going to withdraw my hand from his: I can be less reserv'd when he +is less free. + +Don't take your hand from me;--I will call you miss Warley;--I see my +freedom is depleasing;--but don't take your hand away; for I was still +endeavouring to get it away from him. + +Yes, my angel, I will call you _Miss Warley_. + +Talk not at this rate, my Lord: it is a kind of conversation I do not, +nor wish to understand. + +I see, madam, I am to be unhappy;--I know you have great reason to +condemn me:--my whole behaviour, since I first saw you, has been one +riddle. + +Pray, my Lord, forbear this subject. + +No! if I never see you more, Miss Warley,--this is my wish that you +think the worst of me that appearances admit;--think I have basely +wish'd to distress you. + +Distress me, my Lord? + +Think so, I beseech you, if I never return.--What would the misfortune +be of falling low, even to the most abject in your opinion, compared +with endangering the happiness of her whole peace is my ardent +pursuit?--If I fail, I only can tell the cause:--you shall never be +acquainted with it;--for should you regard me even with pity,--cool +pity,--it would be taking the dagger from my own breast, and planting it +in yours. + +Ah! my Lady, could I help understanding him?--could I help being +moved?--I was moved;--my eyes I believe betrayed it. + +If I return, continued he, it is you only can pronounce me happy.--If +you see me not again, think I am tossed on the waves of adverse +fortune:--but oh think I again intreat _you_,--think me guilty. Perhaps +I may outlive--no, that will never do;--you will be happy long before +that hour;--it would be selfish to hope the contrary. I _wish_ Mr. Powis +was come home;--I wish--All my wishes tend to one great end.--Good God, +what a situation am I in!--That the Dead could hear my petitions!--that +he could absolve me!--What signifies, whether one sue to remains +crumbled in the dust, or to the ear which can refuse to hear the voice +of reason? + +I thought I should have sunk to see the agony he was work'd up to.--I +believe I look'd very pale;--I felt the blood thrill through my veins, +and of a sudden stagnate:--a dreadful sickness follow'd;--I desir'd to +sit;--he look'd on every side, quite terrified;--cry'd, Where will you +sit, my dearest life?--what shall I do?--For heaven's sake speak,--speak +but one word;--speak to tell me, I have not been your murderer. + +I attempted to open my mouth, but in vain; I pointed to the ground, +making an effort to sit down:--he caught me in his arms, and bore me to +a bench not far off;--there left me, to fetch some water at a brook +near, but came back before he had gone ten steps.--I held out my hand to +his hat, which lay on the ground, then look'd to the water.--Thank +God!--thank God! he said, and went full speed, to dip up some;--he knelt +down, trembling, before me;--his teeth chatter'd in his head whilst he +offer'd the water. + +I found myself beginning to recover the moment it came to my lips.--He +fix'd his eyes on me, as if he never meant to take them off, holding +both my hands between his, the tears running down his face, without the +contraction of one feature.--If sorrow could be express'd in stone, he +then appear'd the very statue which was to represent it. + +I attempted to speak. + +Don't speak yet, he cried;--don't make yourself ill again: thank heaven, +you are better!--This is some sudden chill; why have you ventur'd out +without clogs? + +How delicate,--how seasonable, this hint! Without it could I have met +his eye, after the weakness I had betrayed?--We had now no more +interesting subjects; I believe he thought I had _enough_ of them. + +It was near two when we reach'd the Abbey. Sir James and Mr. Morgan were +just return'd from a ride;--Lady Powis met us on the Green, where she +said she had been walking some time, in expectation of her +strollers,--She examin'd my countenance very attentively, and then ask'd +Lord Darcey, if he had remember'd her injunctions? + +What reason, my Lady, have you to suspect the contrary? he +returned--Well, well, said she, I shall find you out some day or +other;--but her Ladyship seem'd quite satisfied, when I assured her I +had been no farther than the Beach-walk. + +Cards were propos'd soon after dinner: the same party as usual.--Mr. +Morgan is never ask'd to make one;--he says he would as soon see the +devil as a card-table.--We kept close at it 'till supper.--I could not +help observing his Lordship blunder'd a little;--playing a diamond for a +spade,--and a heart for a club,--I took my leave at eleven, and he +attended me home. + +Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings were gone to bed,--Edmund was reading in the +parlour; he insisted on our having a negus which going out to order, was +follow'd by Lord Darcey:--I heard them whisper in the passage, but could +distinguish the words, _if she is ill, remember, if she is ill_--and +then Edmund answer'd, You may depend on it, my Lord,--as I have a soul +to be saved:--does your Lordship suppose I would be so negligent? + +I guess'd at this charge;--it was to write, if I should be ill, as I +have since found by Edmund,--who return'd capering into the room, +rubbing his hands, and smiling with such significance as if he would +have said, Every thing is as it should be. + +When his Lordship had wish'd us a good night, he said to +me,--_To-morrow_, Miss Warley!--but I will say nothing of +_to-morrow_;--I shall see you in the morning. His eyes glisten'd, and he +left the room hastily.--Whilst Edmund attended him out, I went to my +chamber that I might avoid a subject of which I saw his honest heart was +full. + +On my table lay the Roman History; I could not help giving a peep where +I had left off, being a very interesting part:--from one thing I was led +to another, 'till the clock struck three; which alarm made me quit my +book. + +Whilst undressing, I had leisure to recollect the incidents of the +pass'd day; sometimes pleasure, sometimes pain, would arise, from this +examination; yet the latter was most predominant. + +When I consider'd Lord Darcey's tender regard for my future, as well as +present peace,--how could I reflect on him without gratitude?--When I +consider'd his perplexities, I thought thus:--they arise from some +entanglement, in which his heart is not engag'd.--Had he confided in me, +I should not have weaken'd his resolutions;--I would no more wish him to +be guilty of a breach of honour, than surrender myself to infamy.--I +would have endeavour'd to persuade him _she_ is amiable, virtuous, and +engaging.--If I had been successful, I would have _frown'd_ when he +_smil'd_;--I would have been _gay_ when he seem'd _oppress'd_--I would +have been _reserv'd, peevish, supercilicus_;--in short, I would have +counterfeited the very reverse of what was likely to draw him from a +former attachment. + +To live without him must be my fate; since that is almost inevitable, I +would have strove to have secur'd his happiness, whilst mine had +remain'd to chance.--These reflections kept me awake 'till six; when I +fell into a profound sleep, which lasted 'till ten; at which time I was +awaken'd by Mrs. Jenkings to tell me Lord Darcey was below; with an +apology, that she had made breakfast, as her husband was preparing, in +great haste, to attend his Lordship. + +This was a hint he was not to stay long; so I put on my cloaths with +expedition; and going down, took with me my whole stock of resolution; +but I carried it no farther than the bottom of the stairs;--there it +flew from me;--never have I seen it since:--that it rested not in the +breast of Lord Darcey, was visible;--rather it seem'd as if his and mine +had taken a flight together. + +I stood with the lock of the door in my hand more than a minute, in +hopes my inward flutterings would abate.--His Lordship heard my +footstep, and flew to open it;--I gave him my hand, without knowing what +I did;--joy sparkled in his eyes and he prest it to his breast with a +fervour that cover'd me with confusion. + +He saw what he had done,--He dropp'd it respectfully, and inquiring +tenderly for my health, ask'd if I would honour him with my commands +before he sat out for Town?--What a fool was I!--Lord bless me!--can I +ever forget my folly? What do you think, my Lady! I did not speak;--no! +I could not answer;--I was _silent_;--I was _silent_, when I would have +given the world for one word.--When I did speak, it was not to Lord +Darcey, but, still all fool, turn'd and said to Mr. Jenkings, who was +looking over a parchment, How do you find yourself, Sir? Will not the +journey you are going to take on horseback be too fatiguing? No, no, my +good Lady; it is an exercise I have all my life been us'd to: to-morrow +you will see me return the better for it. + +Mrs. Jenkings here enter'd, follow'd by a servant with the breakfast, +which was plac'd before me, every one else having breakfasted.--She +desir'd I would give myself the trouble of making tea, having some +little matters to do without.--This task would have been a harder +penance than a fast of three days;--but I must have submitted, had not +my good genius Edmund appear'd at this moment; and placing himself by +me, desir'd to have the honour of making my breakfast. + +I carried the cup with difficulty to my mouth. My embarrassment was +perceiv'd by his Lordship; he rose from his seat, and walk'd up and +down.--How did his manly form struggle to conceal the disorder of his +mind!--Every movement, every look, every word, discover'd Honour in her +most graceful, most ornamental garb: _when_ could it appear to such +advantage, surrounded with a cloud of difficulties, yet shining out and +towering above them all? + +He laid his cold hand on mine;--with precipitation left the room;--and +was in a moment again at my elbow.--Leaning over the back of my chair, +he whisper'd, For heaven's sake, miss Warley, be the instrument of my +fortitude; whilst I see you I cannot--there stopt and turn'd from me.--I +saw he wish'd me to go first,--as much in compassion to myself as him. +When his back was turn'd, I should have slid out of the room;--but Mr. +Jenkings starting up, and looking at his watch, exclaim'd, _Odso_, my +Lord! it is past eleven; we shall be in the dark. This call'd him from +his reverie; and he sprang to the door, just as I had reached +it.--Sweet, generous creature! said he, stopping me; and you will go +_then?_--Farewell, my Lord, replied I.--My dear, good friend, to Mr. +Jenkings, take care of your health.--God bless you both I--My voice +faulter'd. + +Excellent Miss Warley! a thousand thanks for your kind condescension, +said the good old man.--Yet one moment, oh God! yet one moment, said his +Lordship; and he caught both my hands. + +Come, my Lord, return'd Mr. Jenkings; and never did I see him look so +grave, something of disappointment in his countenance;--come, my Lord, +the day is wasting apace. Excuse this liberty:--your Lordship has been +_long_ determin'd,--have _long_ known of leaving this country.--My +dearest young Lady, you will be expected at the Abbey.--I shall, indeed, +replied I;--so God bless you, Sir!--God bless you, my Lord! and, +withdrawing my hands, hasten'd immediately to my chamber. + +I heard their voices in the court-yard:--if I had look'd out at the +window, it might not have been unnatural,--I own my inclinations led to +it.--Inclination should never take place of prudence;--by following one, +we are often plung'd into difficulties;--by the other we are sure to be +conducted safely:--instead, then, of indulging my curiosity to see how +he look'd--how he spoke at taking leave of this dwelling;--whether his +eyes were directed to the windows, or the road;--if he rid slow or +fast;--how often he turn'd to gaze, before he was out of sight:--instead +of this, I went to Mrs. Jenkings's apartment, and remain'd there 'till I +heard they were gone, then return'd to my own; since which I have wrote +down to this period. Perhaps I should have ran on farther, if a summons +from Lady Powis did not call me off. I hope now to appear before her +with tolerable composure.--I am to go in the coach alone.--Well, it will +seem strange!--I shall think of my _late_ companion;--but time +reconciles every thing.--_This_ was my hope, when I lost my best friend, +the lov'd instructress of my infant years.--_Time_, all healing _Time!_ +to _that_ I fear I must look forward, as a lenitive against many evils. + +Two days!--only two days!--and then, adieu, my dear friends at the +Abbey;--adieu, my good Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings!--and you _too_, my +friendly-hearted Edmund, adieu! + +Welcome,--doubly welcome, every moment which brings me nearer to that +when I shall kiss the hands of my honour'd Lady;--when I shall be able +to tell you, in person, ten thousand things too much for my pen;--when +you will kindly say, Tell me all, my Fanny, tell me every secret of your +heart.--Happy sounds!--pleasing sounds! these will be to your grateful +and affectionate + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XXV. + +Miss WARLEY to the same. + +_From Mr. Jenkings's_. + + +Now, my dear Lady, am I ready for my departure:--Sir James and Lady +Powis reconciled to my leaving them;--yet how can I call it reconciled, +when I tear myself from their arms as they weep over me?--Heavens! how +tenderly they love me!--Their distress, when I told them the day was +absolutely fix'd; when I told them the necessity of my going, _their_ +distress nothing could equal but my _own_.--I thought my heart would +have sunk within me!--Surely, my Lady, my affection for them is not a +common affection;--it is _such_ as I hear your dear self;--it is _such_ +as I felt for my revered Mrs. Whitmore.--I cannot dwell on this +subject--indeed I cannot. + +I almost wish I had not kept the day so long a secret.--But suppose I +had not,--would their concern have been lessen'd? + +I would give the world, if Mr. Jenkings was come home:--his wife is like +a frantic woman; and declares, if I persist in going, I shall break the +heart of her and her husband.--Why do they love me so well?--It cannot +be from any deserts of mine:--I have done no more than common gratitude +demands;--the affection I shew them is only the result of their own +kindness.--Benevolent hearts never place any thing to their own +account:--they look on returns as presents, not as just debts:--so, +whether giving or receiving, the glory must be their's. + +I fancy Mr. Smith will not be here 'till to morrow, his Lady having +wrote me, he intended spending the evening with an acquaintance of his +about six miles from the Abbey. + +How I dread the hour of parting!--Poor Mr. Watson!--I fear I shall never +see _him_ more.--Mr. Morgan _too!_ but he is likely to live many +years.--There is something in this strange man excessively engaging.--If +people have roughness, better to appear in the voice, in the air and +dress, than in the heart: a want of softness _there_, I never can +dispense with.--What is a graceful form, what are numberless +accomplishments, without humanity? I love, I revere, the honest, plain, +well-meaning Mr. Morgan. + +Hark! I hear the trampling of horses.--Mr. Jenkings is certainly +return'd.--I hasten down to be the first who shall inform him of my +departure. + +How am I mortified to see Aaron return without his master!--Whilst Mrs. +Jenkings was busied in enquiries after the health of her good man, I was +all impatience for the contents of a letter she held in her hand, +unopen'd: having broke the seal, and run her eye hastily over it, she +gave it me.--I think my recollection will serve to send it verbatim to +your Ladyship. + + +Mr. JENKINGS to Mrs. JENKINGS. + +"My Dear, + +I dispatch Aaron to acquaint you it is impossible for me to be home till +Wednesday. Mr. Stapleton is gone to London: I am obliged to attend Lord +Darcey thither. I love his Lordship _more_ and _more_.--He has convinc'd +me _our_ conjectures were not without foundation.--Heaven grant it may +end to _our_ wishes!--There are, he thinks, difficulties to be overcome. +Let him think it:--his happiness will be more exquisite when he is +undeceiv'd.--Distribute my dutiful respects to Sir James, Lady Powis, +and Miss Warley; next to yourself and our dear Edmund, they are nearest +the heart of your truly affectionate husband + +JENKINGS." + +I will make no comments on this letter; it cannot concern _me_,--What +can I do about seeing Mr. Jenkings before I go?-- + +Lord bless me! a chaise and four just stopp'd; Mr. Smith in +it.--Heavens! how my heart throbs!--I did not expect him 'till +to-morrow: I must run to receive him.--How shall I go up to the +Abbey!--how support the last embrace of Sir James and Lady Powis! + + +Ten at Night, just come from the Abbey. + +Torn in pieces!--my poor heart torn in pieces!--I shall never see them +more;--never again be strain'd to their parental bosoms.--Forgive me, my +dearest Lady, I do not grieve that I am coming to _you_; I grieve only +that I go from _them_.--Oh God! why must my soul be divided? + +Another struggle too with poor Mrs. Jenkings!--She has been on her +knees:--yes, thus lowly has she condescended to turn me from my purpose, +and suffer Mr. Smith to go back without me,--I blush to think what pain, +what trouble I occasion.--She talks of some _important event_ at hand. +She says if I go, it will, end in the destruction of us all.--What can +she mean by an _important event?_--Perhaps Lord Darcey--but no matter; +nothing, my dear Lady, shall with-hold me from you.--The good woman is +now more calm. I have assured her it is uncertain how long we may be in +London: it is only that has calm'd her.--She says, she is _certain_ I +shall return;--she is _certain_, when Mr. Powis and his Lady arrives, _I +must_ return.--Next Thursday they are expected:--already are they +arrived at Falmouth:--but, notwithstanding what I have told Mrs. +Jenkings, to soften her pains at parting, I shall by Thursday be on my +voyage;--for Mr. Smith tells me the Packet will sail +immediately.--Perhaps I may be the messenger of my own letters:--but I +am determin'd to write on 'till I see you;--that when I look them over, +my memory may receive some assistance.--Good night, my dearest Lady; +Mrs. Jenkings and Mr. Smith expects me. + +F. Warley. + + + + +LETTER XXVI. + +Lord DARCEY to Sir JAMES POWIS. + +London. + + +Even whilst I write, I see before me the image of my expiring father;--I +hear the words that issued from his death-like lips;--my soul feels the +weight of his injunctions;--_again_ in my imagination I seal the sacred +promise on his livid hand;--and my heart bows before Sir James with all +that duty which is indispensable from a child to a parent. + +Happiness is within my reach, yet without _your_ sanction I _will_ not, +_dare_ not, bid it welcome;--I _will_ not hold out my hand to receive +_it_.--Yes, Sir, I love Miss Warley; I can no longer disguise my +sentiments.--On the terrace I should not have disguis'd them, if your +warmth had not made me tremble for the consequence.--You remember my +arguments _then_; suffer me now to reurge _them_. + +I allow it would be convenient to have my fortune augmented by alliance; +but then it is not _absolutely_ necessary I should make the purchase +with my felicity.--A thousand chances may put me in possession of +riches;--one event only can put me in possession of content.--Without +_it_, what is a fine equipage?--what a splendid retinue?--what a table +spread with variety of dishes? + +Judge for me, Sir James; _you_ who _know_, who _love_ Miss Warley, judge +for me.--Is it possible for a man of my turn to see her, to talk with +her, to know her thousand _virtues_, and not wish to be united to +them?--It is to your candour I appeal.--_Say_ I _am_ to be happy, _say_ +it only in one line, I come immediately to the Abbey, full of reverence, +of esteem, of gratitude. + +Think, dear Sir James, of Lady Powis;--think of the satisfaction you +hourly enjoy with that charming woman; then will you complete the +felicity of + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XXVII. + +Sir JAMES POWIS to Lord DARCEY. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +I am not much surpris'd at the contents of your Lordship's letter, it is +_what_ Lady Powis and I have long conjectur'd; yet I must tell, you, my +Lord, notwithstanding Miss Warley's great merit, I should have been much +better pleas'd to have found myself mistaken. + +I claim no right to controul your inclinations: the strict observance +you pay your father's last request, tempts me to give my opinion very +opposite to what I should otherwise have done.--Duty like yours ought to +be rewarded.--If you will content yourself with an incumber'd estate +rather than a clear one, why--why--why--faith you shall not have my +approbation 'till you come to the Abbey. Should you see the little +bewitching Gipsy before I talk with you, who knows but you may be wise +enough to make a larger jointure than you can afford? + +I am glad your Lordship push'd the matter no farther on the terrace: I +did not then know how well I lov'd our dear girl.--My wife is _so_ +pleas'd,--_so_ happy,--_so_ overjoy'd,--at what she calls your noble +disinterested regard for her Fanny, that one would think she had quite +forgot the value of _money_.--I expect my son to-morrow.--Let me have +the happiness of embracing you at the same time;--you are both my +children, &c. &c.: + +J. Powis. + + + + +LETTER XXVIII. + +Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Full of joy! full of surprize! I dispatch a line by Robert.--Fly, +Molesworth, to Mr. Smith's, in _Bloomsbury-Square_:--tell my dearest, +dear Miss Warley, but tell her of it by degrees, that Mr. Powis is her +_father!_--Yes! her _father_, George;--and the most desirable woman on +earth, her mother!--Don't tell her of it neither; you will kill her with +surprise.--Confounded luck! that I did not know she was in London. + +I shall be with you in less than two hours, after Robert:--I send him +on, with orders to ride every horse to death, lest he should be set out +for Dover. + +Jenkings is now on the road, but he travels too slow for my wishes.--If +she is gone, prepare swift horses for me to follow:--I am kept by force +to refresh myself.--What refreshment can I want!--Fly, I say, to Miss +Powis, now no longer Miss Warley.--Leave her not, I charge you;--stir +not from her;--by our friendship, Molesworth, stir not from her 'till +you see + +DARCEY. + + + + +LETTER XXIX. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to RICHARD RISBY, Esq; + +_Dover_. + + +Oh Dick! the most dreadful affair has happen'd!--Lord Darcey is +distracted and dying; I am little better--Good God! what shall I +do?--what can I do?--He lies on the floor in the next room, with half +his hair torn off.--Unhappy man! fatigue had near kill'd him, before the +melancholy account reach'd his ears.--Miss Warley, I mean Miss Powis, is +gone to the bottom.--She sunk in the yacht that sailed yesterday from +Dover for Calais.--Every soul is lost.--The fatal accident was confirm'd +by a boat which came in not ten minutes before we arriv'd.--There was no +keeping it from Lord Darcey.--The woman of the Inn we are at has a son +lost in the same vessel: she was in fits when we alighted.--Some of the +wreck is drove on shore.--What can equal this scene!--Oh, Miss Powis! +most amiable of women, I tremble for your relations!--But Darcey, poor +Darcey, what do I feel for you!--He speaks:--he calls for me:--I go to +him. + +Oh, Risby! my heart is breaking; for once let it be said a man's heart +can break.--Whilst he rav'd, whilst his sorrows were loud, there was +some chance; but now all is over. He is absolutely dying;--death is in +every feature.--His convulsions how dreadful!--how dreadful the pale +horror of his countenance!--But then so calm,--so compos'd!--I repeat, +there can, be no chance.-- + +Where is Molesworth? I heard him say as I enter'd his apartment: come to +me, my friend,--_holding out his hand_--come to me, my friend.--Don't +weep--don't let me leave you in tears.--If you wish me well, +rejoice:--think how I should have dragg'd out a miserable number of +days, after--oh, George! after--Here he stopp'd.--The surgeon desir'd he +would suffer us to lift him on the bed.--No, he said, in a faultering +accent, if I move I shall die before I have made known to my friend my +last request.--Upon which the physician and surgeon retir'd to a distant +part of the room, to give him an opportunity of speaking with greater +freedom. + +He caught hold of my hand with the grasp of anguish, saying, Go, go. I +entreat you, by that steady regard which has subsisted between us,--_go_ +to the unhappy family:--if they can be comforted; ay, if they _can_, you +must undertake the task.--_I_ will die without you.--Tell them I send +the thanks, the duty, of a dying man;--that they must consider me as +their own. A few, a _very_ few hours! and I shall be their own;--I shall +be united to their angel daughter.--Dear soul, he cried, is it for +this,--for this, I tore myself from you!--But stop, I will not repine; +the reward of my sufferings is at hand. + +_Now_, you may lift me on the bed;--_now_, my friend, pointing to the +door,--_now_, my dear Molesworth, if you wish I should die in--_there +fainted_.--He lay without signs of life so long, that I thought, all was +over.-- + +I cannot comply with his last request;--it is his last I am +convinc'd;--he will never speak more, Risby!--he will never _more_ +pronounce the name of Molesworth. + +Be yours the task he assign'd me.--Go instantly to the friends you +revere;--go to Mr. and Mrs. Powis, the poor unfortunate +parents.--Abroad they were to you as tender relations;--in England, +your first returns of gratitude will be mournful.--You have seen Miss +Powis:--it could be no other than that lovely creature whom you met so +accidentally at ----: the likeness she bore to her father startled you. +She was then going with Mr. Jenkings into Oxfordshire:--you admired +her;--but had you known her mind, how would you have felt for Darcey! + +Be cautious, tender, and circumspect, in your sad undertaking.--Go first +to the old steward's, about a mile from the Abbey; if he is not +return'd, break it to his wife and son.--They will advise, they will +assist you, in the dreadful affair;--I hope the poor old gentleman has +not proceeded farther than London.--Write the moment you have seen the +family; write every melancholy particular: my mind is only fit for such +gloomy recitals.--Farewel! I go to my dying friend. + +Yours, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XXX. + +Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH, + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +What is the sight of thousands slain in the field of battle, compar'd +with the scene I am just escap'd from!--How can I be +circumstantial!--where am I to begin!--whose distress shall I paint +first!--can there be precedence in sorrow! + +What a weight will human nature support before it sinks!--The distress'd +inhabitants of this house are still alive; it is proclaim'd from every +room by dreadful groans.--You sent me on a raven's message:--like that +ill-boding bird I flew from house to house, afraid to croak my direful +tidings. + +By your directions I went to the steward's;--at the gate stood my dear +friends, Mr. and Mrs. Powis, arm in arm.--I thought I should have +sunk;--I thought I should have died instantly.--I was turning my horse +to go back, and leave my black errand to be executed by another. + +They were instantly at my side;--a hand was seiz'd by each,--and the +words Risby!--captain Risby!--ecchoed in my ears.--What with their +joyous welcomes,--and transported countenances, I felt as if a flash of +lightning had just darted on my head.--Mrs. Powis first perceiv'd the +alteration and ask'd if I was well;--if any thing had happen'd to give +me concern? + +Certainly there has, said Mr. Powis, or _you_ are not the same man you +_was_, Risby.--It is true, Sir, return'd I;--it is true, I am not _so_ +happy as when I last saw _you_;--my mind is disagreeably +situated;--could I receive joy, it would be in knowing this amiable +woman to be Mrs. Powis. + +You both surprise and affect us, replied he. + +Indeed you do, join'd in his Lady; but we will try to remove your +uneasiness:--pray let us conduct you to the Abbey; you are come to the +best house in the world to heal grievances.--Ah, Risby! said my friend, +all there is happiness.--Dick, I have the sweetest daughter: but Lord +Darcey, I suppose, has told you every thing; we desir'd he would; and +that we might see you immediately.--Can _you_ tell us if his Lordship is +gone on to Dover? + +He is, returned I.--I did not wait his coming down, wanting to discover +to you the reason of my perplexities. + +What excuse after saying this, could I make, for going into the +steward's?--For my soul, I could not think of any.--Fortunately it +enter'd my head to say, that I had been wrong directed;--that a foolish +boy had told me this was the strait road to the Abbey. + +Mr. and Mrs. Powis importun'd me to let the servant lead my horse, that +I might walk home with them.--_This_ would never do.--I could not longer +trust myself in _their_ company, 'till I had reconnoitred the +family;--'till I had examin'd who _there_ was best fitted to bear the +first onset of sorrow.--I brought myself off by saying, one of my legs +was hurt with a tight boot. + +Well then, go on, Risby, said Mr. Powis: you see the Abbey just before +you; my wife and I will walk fast;--we shall be but a few minutes +behind. + +My faculties were quite unhing'd, the sight of the noble structure.--I +stopp'd, paus'd, then rode on; stopp'd again, irresolute whether to +proceed.--Recollecting your strict injunctions, I reach'd the gate which +leads to the back entrance; there I saw a well-looking gentleman and the +game-keeper just got off their horses:--the former, after paying me the +compliment of his hat, took a brace of hares from the keeper, and went +into the house.--I ask'd of a servant who stood by, if that was Sir +James Powis? + +No, Sir, he replied; but Sir James is within. + +Who is that gentleman? return'd I. + +His name is Morgan, Sir, + +Very intimate here, I suppose--is he not? + +Yes, very intimate, Sir. + +Then _he_ is the person I have business with; pray tell him _so_. + +The servant obey'd.--Mr. Morgan came to me, before I had dismounted; and +accosting me very genteely, ask'd what my commands were with him? + +Be so obliging, Sir, I replied; to go a small distance from the house; +and I will unfold an affair which I am sorry to be the messenger of. + +Nothing is amiss, Sir, I hope: you look strangely terrified; but I'll go +with you this instant.--On that he led me by a little path to a walk +planted thick with elms; at one end of which was a bench, where we +seated ourselves.--_Now_, Sir, said Mr. Morgan, you may _here_ deliver +what you have to say with secrecy.--I don't recollect to have had the +honour of seeing _you_ before;--but I wait with impatience to be +inform'd the occasion of this visit. + +You are a friend, I presume, of Sir James Powis? + +Yes, Sir, I am: he has _few_ of longer standing, and, as times go, +_more_ sincere, I believe.--But what of that?--do you know any harm, +Sir, of me, or of my friend? + +God knows I do not;--but I am acquainted, Mr. Morgan, with an +unfortunate circumstance relative to Sir James. + +Sir James! Zounds, do speak out:--Sir James, to my knowledge, does not +owe a shilling. + +It is not money matters, Sir, that brought me here:--heaven grant it +was! + +The devil, Sir!--tell me at once, what is this damn'd affair? Upon my +soul, you must tell me immediately. + +Behold!--read, Sir--what a task is mine! (_putting your letter into his +hands_.) + +Never was grief, surprize, and disappointment so strongly painted as in +him.--At first, he stood quite silent; every feature distorted:--then +starting back some paces, threw his hat over the hedge:--stamp'd on his +wig;--and was stripping himself naked, to fling his clothes into a pond +just by, when I prevented him. + +Stop, Sir, I cried: do not alarm the family before they are +prepar'd.--Think of the dreadful consequences;--think of the unhappy +parents!--Let us consult how to break it to them, without severing their +hearts at one blow. + +Zounds, Sir, don't talk to me of breaking it; I shall go mad:--you did +not know her.--Oh! she was the most lovely, gentle creature!--What an +old blockhead have I been!--Why did I not give her my fortune?--_then_ +Darcey would have married her;--_then_ she would not have gone +abroad;--_then_ we should have sav'd her. Oh, she was a sweet, dear +soul!--What good will my curst estates do me _now?_--You shall have +them, Sir;--any body shall have them--I don't care what becomes of +_me_.--Do order my horse, Sir--I say again, do order my horse. I'll +never see this place more.--Oh! my dear, sweet, smiling girl, why would +you go to France? + +Here I interrupted him. + +Think not, talk not, Sir, of leaving the family in such a melancholy +situation.--Pray recollect yourself.--You _ought_ not to run from your +friends;--you _ought_ to redouble your affection at this hour of +trial.--Who _can_ be call'd friends, but those who press forward, when +all the satisfactions of life draw back.--You are not;--your feeling +heart tells me you are not one of the many that retire with such +visionary enjoyments.--Come, Sir, for the present forget the part you +bear in this disaster:--consider,--pray, consider her poor parents; +consider what will be their sufferings:--let it be our task to prepare +them. + +What you say is very right, Sir, return'd he.--I believe you are a good +christian;--God direct us,--God direct us.--I wish I had a dram:--faith, +I shall be choak'd.--Sweet creature!--what will become of Lord +Darcey!--I never wanted a dram so much before.--Your name, Sir, if you +please.--I perceive we shall make matters worse by staying out so long. + +I told him my name; and that I had the honour of being intimately +acquainted with Mr. and Mrs. Powis. + +He continued,--You will go in _with me_, Sir.--How am I to act!--I'll +follow your advice--We must expect it will be a dreadful piece of +work.-- + +Caution and tenderness, Mr. Morgan, will be absolutely necessary. + +But where is my hat?--where is my wig?--have I thrown them into the +pond? + +It is well the poor distress'd man recollected he had them not; or, +bare-headed as he was, I should have gone with him to the house.--I +pick'd them up, all over dirt; and, well as I could, clean'd them with +my handkerchief. + +Now, Sir, said I, if you will wipe your face,--for the sweat was +standing on it in large drops,--I am ready to attend you. + +So I must _really_ go in, captain.--I don't think I can stand it;--you +had better go without me.--Upon my soul, I had sooner face the mouth of +a cannon--If you would blow my brains out, it would be the kindest thing +you ever did in your life. + +Poh! don't talk at this rate, Sir.--Do we live only for ourselves?-- + +But _will_ you not leave us, captain;--_will_ you not run from us, when +all is out? + +Rather, Sir, suspect me of cowardice.--I should receive greater +satisfaction from administering the smallest consolation to people in +distress, than from whole nations govern'd by my nod. + +Well, captain, I _will_ go;--I _will_ do any thing you desire me, since +you are so good to say you will not leave us. + +But, notwithstanding his fair promise, I never expected to get him +within the doors.--He was shifting from side to side:--sometimes he +would stand still,--sometimes attempt to retreat.--When we were just at +the house, a servant appear'd:--of whom he enquir'd, if Mr. and Mrs. +Powis were return'd; and was inform'd the latter was within;--the former +gone out in pursuit of us. We likewise found the Ladies were with Sir +James in the library. I sent in my name: it was in vain for me to expect +any introduction from my companion. + +Mrs. Powis flew to meet me at the door:--Mr. Morgan lifted up his eyes, +and shook his head.--I never was so put to it:--I knew not what to say; +or how to look.--Welcome, Mr. Risby, said the amiable, unfortunate, +unsuspecting mother;--doubly welcome at this happy juncture.--Let me +lead you to parents, introducing me to Sir James and Lady Powis, from +whom I have receiv'd all my felicity. + +You need not be told my reception:--it is sufficient that you know Sir +James and her Ladyship.--My eyes instantly turn'd on the venerable +chaplin: I thought I never discover'd so much of the angel in a human +form. + +Mrs. Powis ask'd me a thousand questions;--except answering _them_, I +sat stupidly silent.--It was not so with Mr. Morgan: he walk'd, or +rather ran up and down;--his eyes fix'd on the floor,--his lips in +motion.--The Ladies spoke to him: he did not answer; and I could +perceive them look on each other with surprize. + +Mr. Powis enter'd:--the room seem'd to lift up:--I quite rambled when I +rose to receive his salute.--Mr. Morgan was giving me the slip.--I +look'd at him significantly,--then at Mr. Watson,--as much as to say, +Take him out; acquaint him with the sorrowful tidings.--He understood +the hint, and immediately they withdrew together. + +Come, dear Risby, pluck up, said Mr. Powis:--do not you, my friend, be +the only low-spirited person amongst us.--I fear Mr. Risby is not well, +return'd Lady Powis.--We must not expect to see every one in high +spirits, because _we_ are:--_our_ blessings must be consider'd as _very_ +singular.--You have not mention'd Fanny to your friends. + +Indeed, Madam, I have, replied he.--Risby knows, I every minute expect +my belov'd daughter.--But tell me, Dick;--tell me, my friend;--all +present are myself;--fear not to be candid;--what accident has thrown a +cloud of sadness over your once chearful countenance?--Can I assist +you?--My advice, my interest, my purse are all your own.--Nay, dear +Risby, you must not turn from me.--I did turn, I could hold it no +longer.-- + +Pray Sir, said Mrs. Powis, do speak;--do command us; and she +condescended to lay her hand on mine--Lady Powis, Sir James too, both +intreated I would suffer them to make me happy.--Dear worthy creatures, +how my heart bled! how it still bleeds for them!-- + +I was attempting some awkward acknowledgment, when Mr. Watson enter'd, +led by Mr. Morgan.--I saw he had executed the task, which made me +shudder.--Never did the likeness of a being celestial shine more than in +the former! He mov'd gently forward,--plac'd himself next Lady +Powis;--pale,--trembling,--sinking.--Mr. Morgan retir'd to the window.-- + +Now,--now,--the dreadful discovery was at a crisis.--Mr. Watson +sigh'd.--Lady Powis eyed him with attention; then starting up, cried, +Bless me! I hear wheels: suppose, Mr. Watson, it should be Fanny!--and +after looking into the lawn resum'd her chair. + +Pardon me, Lady Powis said. Mr. Watson in a low-voice; why _this_ +impatience?--Ah Madam! I could rather wish you to check than encourage +_it_. + +Hold, hold, my worthy friend, return'd Sir James; do you forget four +hours since how you stood listening at a gate by the road-side, saying, +you could hear, tho' not see? + +We must vary our hopes and inclinations, reply'd Mr. Watson.--Divine +Providence--there stopp'd;--not another word.--He stopp'd;--he +groan'd;--and was silent.--Great God! cried Mr. Powis, is my child +ill?--Is my child dead? frantickly echoed Mrs. Powis--Heaven forbid! +exclaim'd Sir James and his Lady, arising.--Tell us, Mr. Watson;--tell +us, Mr. Ruby. + +When you are compos'd,--return'd the former--Then, our child is +dead,--really dead! shriek'd the parents.--No, no, cried Lady Powis, +clasping her son and daughter in her arms,--she is, not dead; I am sure +she is not dead. + +Mr. Watson, after many efforts to speak, said in a faultering +voice,--Consider we are christians:--let that bless'd name fortify our +souls. + +Mrs. Powis fell on her knees before him,--heart-rending sight!--her cap +torn off,--her hair dishevell'd,--her eyes fix'd;--not a tear,--not a +single tear to relieve the bitter anguish of her soul. + +Sir James had left the room;--Lady Powis was sunk almost senseless on +the sopha;--Mr. Powis kneeling by his wife, clasping her to his +bosom;--Mr. Morgan in a corner roaring out his affliction;--Mr. Watson +with the voice of an angel speaking consolation.--I say nothing of my +own feelings.--God, how great!--how inexpressible! when Mrs. Powis, +still on her knees, turn'd to me with uplifted hands,--Oh Mr. Risby! +cried she,--can _you,_--can _you_ speak comfort to the miserable?--Then +again addressing Mr. Watson,--Dear, saint, only say she lives:--I ask no +more; only say she lives.--My best love!--my life!--my Fanny! said Mr. +Powis, lifting her to the sopha;--live,--live,--for my +sake.--Oh!--Risby, are _you_ the messenger?--his head fell on my +shoulder, and he sobb'd aloud. + +Lady Powis beckon'd him towards her, and, looking at Mrs. Powis with an +expressive glance of tenderness,--said Compose yourself, my son;--what +will become of _you, if_--He took the meaning of her words, and wrapping +his arms about his wife, seem'd for a moment to forget his own sorrow in +endeavours to. + +What an exalted woman is Lady Powis! + +My children, said she; taking a hand from each,--I am thankful: whom the +Lord loveth he chasteneth.--Let us follow his great example of +patience,--of resignation.--What is a poor span?--_Ours_ will be +eternity. + +I whisper'd Mr. Morgan, a female friend would be necessary to attend the +Ladies;--one whom they lov'd,--whom they confided in, to be constantly +with them in their apartments.--He knew just such a woman, he said; and +went himself to fetch Mrs. Jenkings.--Lady Powis being unable longer to +support herself, propos'd withdrawing.--I offered my arm, which she +accepted, and led her to the dressing-room.--Mrs. Powis follow'd; almost +lifeless, leaning on her husband: there I left them together, and +walk'd out for a quarter of an hour to recover my confus'd senses. + +At my return to the library, I found Sir James and Mr. Watson in +conversation.--The former, with a countenance of horror and +distraction,--Oh Sir! said he, as I came near him,--do I see you +again?--are you kind enough not to run from our distress? + +Run from it, Sir James! I reply'd;--no, I will stay and be a partaker. + +Oh Sir! he continued, you know not _my_ distress:--death only can +relieve _me_--I am without _hope_, without _comfort_. + +And is this, Sir James, what you are arriv'd at? said the good +chaplain--Is this what you have been travelling sixty years after?--Wish +for death yet say you have neither hope or comfort.--Your good Lady, +Sir, is full of both;--_she_ rejoices in affliction:--_she_ has long +look'd above this world. + +So might I, he reply'd,--had I no more to charge myself with than she +has.--_You_ know, Mr. Watson,--_you_ know how faulty I have been. + +Your errors, dear Sir James, said he, are not remember'd.--Look back on +the reception you gave your son and daughter. + +He made no reply; but shedding a flood of tears, went to his afflicted +family. + +Mr. Watson, it seems, whilst I had been out, acquainted him with the +contents of your letter;--judging it the most seasonable time, as their +grief could not then admit of increase. + +Sir James was scarce withdrawn, when Lady Powis sent her woman to +request the sight of it.--As I rose to give it into her hand, I saw Mr. +Morgan pass by the door, conducting an elderly woman, whom I knew +afterward to be Mrs. Jenkings.--She had a handkerchief to her eyes, one +hand lifted up;--and I heard her say, Good God! Sir, what shall I +do?--how can I see the dear Ladies?--Oh Miss Powis!--the amiable Miss +Powis! + +Mr. Morgan join'd us immediately, with whom and Mr. Watson I spent the +remainder of this melancholy evening: at twelve we retir'd. + +So here I sit, like one just return'd from the funeral of his best +friend;--alone, brooding over every misery I can call together.--The +light of the moon, which shines with uncommon splendor, casts not one +ray on my dark reflections:--nor do the objects which present +themselves from the windows offer one pleasing idea;--rather an +aggravation to my heart-felt anguish.--Miserable family!--miserable +those who are interested in its sad disaster!-- + +I go to my bed, but not to my repose. + + +Nine o'clock in the morning. + +How sad, how gloomy, has been the approach of morning!--About six, for I +had not clos'd my eyes,--somebody enter'd my chamber. I suppos'd it Mr. +Morgan, and drew aside my curtain.--It was not Mr. Morgan;--it _was_ the +poor disconsolate father of Miss Powis, more agitated, if possible, than +the preceding night.--He flung himself on my bed with agony not to be +express'd:-- + +Dear Risby, said he, _do_ rise:--_do_ come to my apartment.--Alas! my +Fanny-- + +What new misfortune, my friend? ask'd I, starting up.--My wife! +return'd! he!--she is in fits;--she has been in fits the whole +night.--Oh Risby! if I should lose _her_, if I should lose my +_wife!_--My parents _too_, I shall lose them!-- + +Words could not lessen his affliction. I was silent, making what haste I +could to huddle on my clothes;--and at his repeated intreaties follow'd +him to his wife,--She was sitting near the fire drowned; in tears, +supported by her woman. I was pleas'd to see them drop so +plentifully.--She lifted up her head a little, as I enter'd.--How +alter'd!--how torn to pieces with grief!--Her complexion once so +lovely,--how changed in a few hours. + +My husband! said she, in a faint voice, as he drew near her.--Then +looking at me,--Comfort him, Mr. Risby;--don't let him sob so.--Indeed +he will be ill;--indeed he will.--Then addressing him, Consider, she who +us'd to be your nurse is now incapable of the task.--His agitation was +so much increas'd by her words and manner, that I attempted to draw him +into another apartment.--Your intentions are kind, said she, Mr. +Risby;--but I _must_ not lose my husband:--you see how it is, Sir, +shaking her head;--try to sooth him;--talk to him _here_ but do not take +him from _me_.-- + +Then turning to Mr. Powis,--I am better, my love,--don't frighten +yourself:--we must learn to be resign'd.--Set the example, and I will be +resign'd, said he,--wiping away the tears as they trickled down her +cheek;--if my Fanny supports herself, I shall not be quite miserable. +In this situation I left them, to close my letter. + +What is become of poor Lord Darcey? For ever is he in my +thoughts.--_His_ death will be an aggravation to the general +sorrow.--Write instantly:--I wait your account with impatience; yet +dread to receive it. + + + + +LETTER XXXI. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to RICHARD RISBY, Esq; + +_Dover_. + + +Say not a word of it;--no, not for the world;--the body of Miss Powis is +drove on shore.--If the family choose to have her brought down, it may +be done some time hence.--I have order'd an undertaker to get a lead +coffin, and will take care to have her remains properly deposited.--It +would be an act of cruelty at present to acquaint her friends with this +circumstance.--I have neither leisure or spirits to tell you in what +manner the body was found, and how I knew it to be miss Powis's. + +The shore is fill'd with a multitude of people.--What sights will they +gaze on to satisfy their curiosity!--a curiosity that makes human +nature shrink. + +I have got three matronly women to go with the undertaker, that the body +may be taken up with decency. + +Darcey lives;--but _how_ does he live?--Without sense; almost without +motion. + +God protect the good old steward!--the worthy Jenkings!--He is with you +before this;--he has told you everything. I could not write by him:--I +thought I should never be able to touch a pen again.--He had left Dover +before the body was found.--What conflicts did he escape! But as it is, +I fear his grey hairs will go down with sorrow to the grave.--God +support us all! + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XXXII + +Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +My heart bleeds afresh--Her body found! Good heaven!--it _must_ +not,--_shall_ not come to the knowledge of the family.--At present they +submit with a degree of resignation.--Who knows but a latent hope might +remain?--Instances have been known of many saved from wrecks;--but her +body is drove on shore.--Not a glimmering;--possibility is _now_ out of +the question.--The family are determin'd to shut themselves out from the +world;--no company ever more to be admitted;--never to go any where but +to the church.--Your letter was deliver'd me before them.--I was ask'd +tenderly for poor Lord Darcey.--What could I answer?--Near the same; +not worse, on the whole.--They flatter themselves he will recover;--I +encourage all their flattering hopes. + +Mrs. Jenkings has never been home since Mr. Morgan fetch'd her;--Mr. +Jenkings too is constantly here;--sometimes Edmund:--except the unhappy +parents, never was grief like theirs. + +Mr. Jenkings has convinc'd me it was Miss Powis which I saw at ----. +Strange reverse of fortune since that hour! + +When the family are retir'd I spend many melancholy hours with poor +Edmund;--and from him have learnt the reason why Mr. Powis conceal'd his +marriage,--which is _now_ no secret.--Even Edmund never knew it till Mr. +and Mrs. Powis return'd to England,--Take a short recital:--it will help +to pass away a gloomy moment. + +When Mr. Powis left the University, he went for a few months to Ireland +with the Lord-Lieutenant; and at his return intended to make the Grand +Tour.--In the mean time, Sir James and Lady Powis contract an intimacy +with a young Lady of quality, in the bloom of life, but not of +beauty.--By what I can gather, Lady Mary Sutton is plain to a +degree,--with a mind--But why speak of her mind?--let that speak for +itself. + +She was independent; her fortune noble;--her affections disengag'd.--Mr. +Powis returns from Ireland: Lady Mary is then at the Abbey.--Sir James +in a few days, without consulting his son, sues for her alliance.--Lady +Mary supposes it is with the concurrence of Mr. Powis:--_his_ +person,--_his_ character,--_his_ family, were unexceptionable; and +generously she declar'd her sentiments in his favour.--Sir James, +elated with success, flies to his son;--and in presence of Lady Powis, +tells him he has secur'd his happiness.--Mr. Powis's inclinations not +coinciding,--Sir James throws himself into a violent rage.--Covetousness +and obstinacy always go hand in hand:--both had taken such fast hold of +the Baronet, that he swore--and his oath was without reservation--he +would never consent to his son's marrying any other woman.--Mr. Powis, +finding his father determin'd,--and nothing, after his imprecation, to +expect from the entreaties of his mother,--strove to forget the person +of Lady Mary, and think only of her mind.--Her Ladyship, a little +chagrin'd Sir James's proposals were not seconded by Mr. Powis, +pretended immediate business into Oxfordshire.--The Baronet wants not +discernment: he saw through her motive; and taking his opportunity, +insinuated the violence of his son's passion, and likewise the great +timidity it occasion'd--he even prevail'd on Lady Powis to propose +returning with her to Brandon Lodge. + +The consequence of this was, the two Ladies set out on their journey, +attended by Sir James and Mr. Powis, who, in obedience to his father, +was still endeavouring to conquer his indifference.-- + +Perhaps, _in time_, the amiable Lady Mary might have found a way to his +heart,--had she not introduc'd the very evening of their arrival at the +Lodge, her counter-part in every thing but person:--there Miss Whitmore +outshone her whole sex.--This fair neighbour was the belov'd friend of +Lady Mary Sutton, and soon became the idol of Mr. Powis's affections, +which render'd his situation still more distressing.--His mother's +disinterested tenderness for Lady Mary;--her own charming +qualifications;--his father's irrevocable menace, commanded him one +way:--Miss Whitmore's charms led him another. + +Attached as he was to this young Lady, he never appear'd to take the +least notice, of her more than civility demanded;--tho' she was of the +highest consequence to his repose, yet the obstacles which surrounded +him seem'd insurmountable. + +Sir James and Lady Powis retiring one evening earlier than usual,--Lady +Mary and Mr. Powis were left alone. The latter appear'd greatly +embarrass'd. Her Ladyship eyed him attentively; but instead of sharing +his embarrassment,--began a conversation of which Miss Whitmore was the +subject.--She talk'd _so_ long of her many excellencies, profess'd +_such_ sincerity, _such_ tenderness, _for her_, that his emotion became +visible:--his fine, eyes were full of fire;--his expressive features +spoke what she, had long wish'd to discover.--You are silent, Sir, said +she, with a smile of ineffable sweetness; is my lovely friend a subject +that displeases you?-- + +How am I situated! replied he--Generous Lady Mary, dare I repose a +confidence in your noble breast?--_Will_ you permit me that +honour?--_Will_ you not think ill of me, if I disclose--No, I +cannot--presumption--I _dare_ not. She interrupted him: + +Ah Sir!--you hold me unworthy,--you hold me incapable of +friendship.--Suppose me your sister:--if you had a sister, would you +conceal any thing from _her?_--Give me then a _brother_;--I can never +behold _you_ in any other light. + +No, my Lady;--no, return'd he, I deserve not _this_ honour.--If you +knew, madam,--if you knew all,--you _would_, you _must_ despise me. + +Despise you, Mr. Powis!--she replied;--despise you for loving Miss +Whitmore! + +Exalted goodness! said he,--approaching her with rapture: take my +heart;--do with it as you please;--it is devoted to your generosity. + +Well then, said she, I command _it_,--I command _it_ instantly to be +laid open before me.--_Now_ let it speak,--_now_ let it declare if I am +not the bar to its felicity:--if-- + +No, my good angel, interrupted he, dropping on his knees,--and pressing +her hand to his lips;--I see it is through you,--through you only,--I am +to expect felicity. + +Before Lady Mary could prevail on Mr. Powis to arise, Sir James, whom +they did not expect,--and who they thought was retir'd for the night, +came in quest of his snuff-box;--but with a countenance full of joy +retir'd precipitately, bowing to Lady Mary with the same reverence as if +she had been a molten image cast of his favourite metal. + +In this conversation I have been circumstantial, that you might have a +full view of the noble, disinterested Lady Mary Sutton:--you may gather +now, from whence sprang her unbounded affection for the incomparable, +unfortunate Miss Powis. + +You will not be surprised to find a speedy marriage took place between +Mr. Powis and Miss Whitmore, to which none were privy but the Dean of +H----, who perform'd the ceremony,--Lady Mary,--Mrs. Whitmore (the +mother of Mrs. Powis),--Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings.--Perhaps you think Lady +Powis ought to have been consulted:--I thought so _too_; but am _now_ +convinc'd she would have been the wretchedest woman in the world, had +she known her son acting diametrically opposite to the will of his +father in so material a point. + +To put it out of the power of every person intrusted with this momentous +secret to divulge it,--and to make Mr. Powis perfectly easy,--each bound +themselves at the altar where the ceremony was perform'd, never to make +the least discovery 'till Mr. Powis thought fit to declare his marriage. + +What an instance have I given you of _female_ friendship!--Shew me such +another:--our sex are a test of _their_ friendships. + +How many girls have I seen,--for ever together arm in arm,--whispering +their own, perhaps the secrets of all their neighbours;--when in steps a +young fellow of our cloth,--or any other, it signifies not the +colour,--and down tumbles the tottering basis.--Instead of _my dear_ and +_my love_, it is _sly creature, false friend_, could any one have +thought Miss Such-a-one possess'd of so much art?--then out comes +intrigues, family-affairs, losses at cards,--in short, every thing that +has been treasur'd up by two industrious fair ones seven years before. + +Don't think me satyrical:--I am nice;--_too_ much so, perhaps.--The +knowledge of _such_ as constitute this little narrative, and _some_ +other minds like _theirs_, has made me rather _too_ nice, as I said +before;--a matter of little consequence, as I am situated.--Can I look +forward to happy prospects, and see how soon the fairest felicity is out +of sight?--This afflicted family, Molesworth, has taught me to +forget,--that is, I ought to forget.--But no matter;--never again let me +see Lady Sophia;--never lead me a second time into danger:--she is +mortal; like Miss Powis.--Lord Darcey! poor Lord Darcey! + +If recollection will assist me, a word or two more of Mr. and Mrs. +Powis. + +Lady Sophia--the deuce is in me! you know who I mean;--why write I the +name of Lady Sophia?--upon my honour, I have given over all thoughts of +that divinity--Lady Mary I should have said, a few months after the +nuptials of her friends, wrote to Mr. Powis, who was then at Barford +Abbey, an absolute refusal, in consequence of a preconcerned plan of +operation.--Immediately after this, she set out with Mrs. Powis for +London, whose _situation_ made it necessary for her to leave Hillford +Down. + +You will suppose, on the receipt of this letter, how matters were at the +Abbey:--Sir. James rav'd; even Lady Powis thought her son ill us'd; +but, in consideration of their former intimacy, prevail'd on Sir James +never to mention the affair, though from this time all acquaintance +ceas'd between the families. + +In order to conceal the marriage, it was inevitable Mr. Powis must carry +his wife abroad;--and as he intended to travel before the match was +thought of with Lady Mary,--his father now readily consented that he +should begin his tour.--This furnish'd him with an excuse to go +immediately to town,--where he waited 'till the angel that we all weep +for, made her appearance. + +But what, you ask, was Mrs. Powis's excuse to leave England, without +being suspected?--Why, I'll tell you: by the contrivance of Lady Mary, +together with Mrs. Whitmore, it was believ'd she had left the +world;--that she died in town of a malignant fever;--that--but I cannot +be circumstantial--Miss Powis, after her parents went abroad, was +brought down by Lady Mary, and consign'd to the care of her grandmother, +with whom she liv'd as the orphan child of some distant relation. + +Whilst Mr. and Mrs. Powis were travelling through Italy, he apply'd to +his friend the Lord-Lieutenant,--and by _that_ interest was appointed to +the government of ----. It was here my acquaintance with them commenc'd: +not that I suspected Miss Glinn to be Mrs. Powis, though I saw her every +day.--_Glinn_ was a name she assum'd 'till she returned to England.--A +thousand little circumstances which render'd her character unsuspected, +I want spirits to relate.--Suffice it to say,--the death of Mrs. +Whitmore;--a daughter passing on the world for an orphan;--and the +absence of Lady Mary Sutton;--made them resolve to hazard every thing +rather than leave their child unprotected.--Alas! for what are they +come home? + +Nothing is impossible with a Supreme Being.--Lord Darcey _may_ +recover.--But why this ray of hope to make the horrors of my mind more +dreadful?--He is _past_ hope, you say.-- + +RISBY. + + + + +LETTER XXXIII. + +The Honourable George Molesworth to Richard Risby, Esq; + +_Dover_. + + +Risby, I am lifted above myself!--I am overcome with surprise!--I am mad +with joy!--Is it possible!--can it be!--But Lord Darcey's servant has +swore it;--yes, he has swore, a letter directed in Miss Powis's _own_ +hand, lay on the counter in a banker's shop where he went to change a +bill: the direction was to Lady Mary Sutton:--he has put many for the +same Lady into the post-office.--I _run_, I _ride_ or rather _fly_ to +town. + +You may jump, you may sing, but command your features before the +family.--Should it be a mistake of John's, we kill them twice. + +If I live to see the resurrection of our hopes, John shall be with you +instantly.--On second thought, I will not dispatch this, unless we have +a bless'd certainty. + +Molesworth. + + + + +LETTER XXXIV. + +The Honourable George Molesworth to the same. + +_London_. + + +Are you a mile from the Abbey, Dick?--Are you out of sight,--out of +hearing?--John, though you should offer to kill him, dare not deliver +letter or message 'till you are at a proper distance. + +Miss Powis lives!--Restore peace within the walls.--As I hope to be +pardon'd for my sins, I have seen, I have spoke to her.--She +lives!--Heavenly sound! it should be convey'd to them from above.--She +lives! let me again repeat it.--Proclaim the joyful tidings:--but for +particulars have patience 'till I return to the man, to the friend my +life is bound up in.--I have seen him in every stage. Brightest has he +shone, as the taper came nearer to an end.--The rich cordial must be +administered one drop at a time.--Observe the caution. + +Molesworth. + + + + +LETTER XXXV. + +Captain Risby to the Honourable George Molesworth. + +_Barford Abby_. + + +Well, Molesworth,--well--I can go no farther;--yet I _must;--John_, poor +faithful _John_, says I _must_;--says he shall be sent back again.--But +I have lost the use of my fingers:--my head bobs from side to side like +a pendulum. Don't stamp, don't swear: they have a few drops of your +cordial more than I intended.--It operates well.--I long to administer a +larger potion.--Could you see how I am shifted--now here--now there--by +the torrent of joy, that like a deluge almost drives reason before +it;--I say, could you see me, you would not wonder at the few +unconnected lines of + +Yours, + +Risby. + + + + +LETTER XXXVI. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to RICHARD RISBY, Esq; + +_Dover_. + + +Darcey bears the joyful surprise beyond imagination:--it has brought him +from death to life.-- + +Hear in what manner I proceeded;--You may suppose the hurry in which I +left Dover:--I took no leave of my friend;--his humane apothecary +promis'd not to quit him in my absence:--I gave orders when his Lordship +enquir'd for me, that he should be told particular business of my _own_ +had call'd me to town express.--It happen'd very convenient that I left +him in a profound sleep. + +Away I flew,--agitated betwixt _hope_ and _fear_:--harrass'd by +fatigue;--not in a bed for three nights before;--nature was almost wore +out, when I alighted at the banker's. + +I accosted one of the clerks, desiring to speak with Mr. or Mrs. Delves +[Footnote: The name of the banker.]:--the former not at home, I was +immediately conducted to the latter, a genteel woman, about forty.--She +receiv'd me politely; but before I could acquaint her with the occasion +of my visit, the door open'd, and in stepp'd a pretty sprightly girl, +who on seeing me was going to retire.--Do you want any thing, my love? +said Mrs. Delves. Only, Madam, she replied, if you think it proper for +Miss Warley to get up. + + + +Miss Warley! exclaim'd I.--Great God! Miss Warley!--Tell me, Ladies, is +Miss Warley _really_ under your roof?--Both at once, for _both_ seem'd +equally dispos'd to diffuse happiness, answer'd to my wishes. + +I threw myself back in my chair:--the surprise was more than I could +support.--Shall I tell you all my weakness?--I even shed tears;--yes, +Dick, I shed tears:--but they were drops of heart-felt gladness. + +The Ladies look'd on each other,--Mrs. Delves said in a tone that shew'd +she was not without the darling passion of her sex, + +Pardon me, Sir; I think I have heard Miss Warley has _no_ brother,--or I +should think _your_ emotion I saw him before me.--But whoever you are, +this humanity is noble.--Indeed, the poor young Lady has been extremely +ill. + +I am not her brother, Madam, return'd I.--It is true, she has _no_ +brother;--but _she has_ parents, _she has_ friends, who lament her +dead:--_their_ sorrow has been _mine_. + +I fear, Sir, return'd she, it will not end here.--I grieve to tell you, +the Miss Warley you speak of is not with me;--I know nothing of that +Lady:--my Miss Warley has no parents. + +I still persisted it was the same; and, to the no small gratification of +both mother and daughter, promis'd to explain the mystery.--But before I +began, Miss Delves was sent to desire Miss Warley would continue in bed +an hour longer, on account of some visitors that had dropp'd in +accidentally. + +Soon as Miss Delves return'd, I related every particular.--I cannot tell +you half that pass'd;--I cannot describe their astonishment:--but let me +_tell_ you Miss Powis is just recover'd from the small-pox;--that this +was the second day of her sitting up:--let me _tell_ you _too_ her face +is as beautiful as ever.--On mature deliberation, it was determin'd, for +the sake of Miss Powis's health, she must some time longer think her +name Warley. + +I din'd with my new acquaintance, on their promising to procure an +interview for me with Miss Powis in the afternoon. + +It was about five when I was admitted to her presence.--I found her in +an elegant dressing-room, sitting on a sopha: her head a little +reclin'd.--I stepp'd slow and softly: she arose as I enter'd.--I wonder +not that Darcey adores her, never was a form so perfect! + +My trembling knees beat one against another.--My heart,--my impatient +heart flew up to my face to tell its joyful sensations.--I ventur'd to +press her hand to my lips, but was incapable of pronouncing a +syllable.--She was confus'd:--she certainly thought of Darcey, when she +saw his friend.--I took a chair next her.--I shall not repeat our +conversation 'till it became interesting, which began by her asking, if +I had heard lately any accounts from Barford Abbey?--Lord Darcey, Madam, +I reply'd, has receiv'd a letter from Sir James. + +Lord Darcey! she repeated with great emotion.--Is Sir James and Lady +Powis well. Sir? + +His Lordship, reply'd I, awkwardly, did not mention particulars.--I +believe,--I suppose.--your friends are well. + +I fear, said she sighing, they will think me an ungrateful creature.--No +person, Mr. Molesworth, had ever _such_ obligations to their friends as +_I have_--This family, looking at the two Ladies, must be rank'd with +my best.--Their replies were polite and affectionate--Can you tell me, +Sir, continued she, if Lord--here her face was all over +crimson--heavens! I mean, if Mr. Powis and his Lady are at the +Abbey?--Why did she not say Lord Darcey? I swear the name quiver'd on +her lips. + +I answer'd in the affirmative;--and sitting silent a moment,--she ask'd +how I discover'd her to be still in England.--I said by means of a +servant:--true enough, Dick:--but then I was oblig'd to add, this +servant belonged to Mr. Delves, and that he accidentally happen'd a few +hours since to mention her name whilst I was doing business in the +shop.--She was fond of dwelling on the family at the Abbey;--on Mr. and +Mrs. Jenkings;--and once when I mention'd my friend, when I said how +happy I should make him at my return;--pleasure, the most difficult to +be conceal'd of any sensation, sprang to her expressive eyes. + +I suppose she will expect a visit from his Lordship.--If she is angry at +being disappointed, no matter: the mistake will be soon clear'd up. + +The moment I left her, I stepp'd into a chaise that waited for me at the +door, and drove like lightning from stage to stage, 'till I reach'd this +place;--my drivers being turn'd into Mercuries by a touch more +efficacious than all the oaths that can be swore by a first-rate blood. + +I did not venture into Darcey's apartment 'till he was inform'd of my +return.--I heard him impatiently ask to see me, as I stood without the +door. This call'd me to him;--when pulling aside the curtain he ask'd, +Who is that?--Is it Molesworth?--Are you come, my friend? But what have +you seen?--what have you heard?--looking earnestly in face.--_I_ am +past joy,--past feeling pleasure even for you, George;--yet tell me why +you look not so sorrowful as yesterday.-- + +I ask'd what alteration it was he saw:--what it was he suspected.--When +I have griev'd, my Lord, it has been for you.--If I am now less +afflicted, you must be less miserable.--He started up in the bed, and +grasping both my hands in his, cry'd. Tell me, Molesworth, is there a +possibility,--a bare possibility?--I ask no more;--only tell me there is +a possibility. + +My Lord,--my friend,--my Darcey, nothing is impossible. + +By heaven! he exclaim'd, you would not flatter me;--by heaven she lives! + +Ask me not farther, my Lord.--What is the blessing you most wish +for?--Suppose that blessing granted.--And you, Risby, suppose the +extasy,--the thankfulness that ensued.--He that is grateful to man, can +he be ungrateful to his Maker? + +Yours, + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XXXVII. + +Miss Powis to Lady Powis. + +_London_. + + +Think me not ungrateful, my ever-honour'd Lady, that I have been silent +under the ten thousand obligations which I receiv'd at Barford +Abbey.--But indeed, my dear Lady, I have been _very_ ill.--I have had +the small-pox:--I was seiz'd delirious the evening after my arrival in +Town.--My God! what a wretch did I set out with!--Vile man!--Man did I +say?--_No_; he is a disgrace to _manhood_.--How shall I tell your +Ladyship all I have suffer'd?--I am weak,--_very_ weak;--I find myself +unequal to the task.-- + +This moment I have hit on an expedient that will unravel all;--I'll +recall a letter [Footnote: This was the same Lord Darcey's servant saw +on the counter.] which I have just sent down to be put into the +post-office;--a letter I wrote Lady Mary Sutton immediately on my +arrival here;--but was seiz'd so violently, that I could not add the +superscription, for which reason it has lain by ever since.--I am easy +on Lady Mary's account:--Mr. Delves has acquainted her of my +illness:--like wise the prospect of my recovery. + + + +Consider then, dear Lady Powis, the inclos'd as if it was address'd to +yourself. + +I cannot do justice to the affection,--the compassion,--the tender +assiduity I have experienc'd from Mr. Delves's family:--I shall always +love them; I hope too I shall always be grateful. + +God grant, my dear Lady;--God grant, dear Sir James, that long ere this +you may have embrac'd Mr. and Mrs. Powis.--My heart is with _you_:--it +delights to dwell at Barford Abbey. + +In a few days I hope to do myself the honour of writing to your Ladyship +again.--One line from your dear hand would be most gratefully receiv'd +by your oblig'd and affectionate + +F. WARLEY. + +_P.S._ My good friends Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings shall hear from me next +post. + + + + +LETTER XXXVIII. + +Miss Powis to Lady MARY SUTTON. + + +Oh my dear Lady! what a villain have I escap'd from?--Could your +Ladyship believe that a man, who, to all appearance, has made a good +husband to your agreeable neighbour upwards of twelve years, and +preserv'd the character of a man of honour;--could you believe in the +decline of life he would have fallen off? No, he cannot have fallen: +such a mind as his never was exalted.--It is the virtues of his wife +that has hitherto made his vices imperceptible;--that has kept them in +their dark cell, afraid to venture out;--afraid to appear amidst her +shining perfections.--Vile, abandon'd Smith!--But for the sake of his +injur'd, unhappy wife, I will not discover his baseness to any but +yourself and Lady Powis.--Perhaps Mrs. Smith may not be unacquainted +with his innate bad principles;--perhaps she conceals her knowledge of +them knowing it vain to complain of a disorder which is past the reach +of medicine.--What cure is there for mischief lurking under the mask of +hypocrisy?--It must be of long standing before that covering can grow +over it:--like a vellum on the eye, though taken off ever skillfully, it +will again spread on the blemish'd sight. + +How am I running on!--My spirits are flutter'd:--I begin where I should +end, and end where I should begin.--Behold me, dearest Madam, just +parted from my Hampshire friends,--silent and in tears, plac'd by the +side of my miscreant conductor.--You know, my Lady, this specious man +_can_ make himself vastly entertaining: he strove to render his +conversation particularly so, on our first setting out. + +We had travell'd several stages without varying the subject, which was +that of our intended tour, when I said I hop'd it would conquer Mrs. +Smith's melancholy for the death of her brother.--How did his answer +change him in a moment from the _most_ agreeable to the _most_ +disgustful of his sex! + +My wife, Miss Warley, with a leer that made him look dreadful, wants +your charming sprightliness:--it is a curs'd thing to be connected with +a gloomy woman:-- + +_Gloomy_, Sir! casting at him a look of disdain; do you call mildness, +complacency, and evenness of temper, _gloomy?_ + +She is much altered, Madam;--is grown old and peevish;--her health is +bad;--she cannot live long. + +Mrs. Smith can never be _peevish_, Sir;--and as to her _age_, I thought +it pretty near your _own_. + +No, no, Madam, you are quite mistaken; I am at least five years younger. + +Five years, Sir! what are five years at _your_ time of life! + +Come, come, Miss Warley, laying his huge paw on my hand, and in a tone +of voice that shew'd him heartily nettled;--even at _my_ time of life I +can admire a beautiful young Lady.--If my wife should die,--_old as I +am_--men _older_ than myself, with half my estate, have married some of +the finest women in the kingdom. + +Very likely, Sir;--but then it is to be suppos'd the characters of +_such_ men have been particularly amiable,--No man or woman of honour +can esteem another whose principles are doubtful. + +This was a pretty home-thrust; it put him more on his guard for the +present; but had he behav'd like an angel, I must have hated him. He was +_very_ respectful, _very_ ceremonious, and _very_ thoughtful, 'till we +arrived at the inn where we were to stop the night; and had so much art +not to seem displeas'd, that I refus'd giving him my company at supper, +under pretence of indisposition.--Indeed, I was far from well: a child +which I had seen a few hours before fresh in the small-pox, a good deal +disconcerted me.--After fixing on my room, not to appear suspicious, I +went down at his request, to eat a bit of cake and drink a glass of +wine, before I retired for the night.--I had scarce swallow'd it when he +left me, as he said, to speak to the drivers. I wished him a good night +as he went out, and took an opportunity a few moments after to go to my +chamber.--When there I lock'd the door, and sat myself down to undress; +but I began to be greatly alarm'd by something that mov'd under the +bed.--Judge my surprize,--judge my horror,--on taking the candle and +examining, to see there a man!--But how was that surprize,--that horror +increased, on discovering, him to be the vile Smith!--I gave a loud +scream, and ran towards the door; but had not power to turn the key, +before he caught me in his arms.-- + +Be calm, Miss Warley, cried the monster;--hear what I have to +say.--Suffer me to tell you, that I love you to distraction;--that I +adore you. + +_Adore_ me, vile man! said I, breaking from him:--leave me this +instant--begone:--leave me, I say, instantly.--Again I scream'd. + +No, by heaven! he reply'd, I will not go 'till you have heard and +pardon'd me.--Here I stand _determin'd_ to be heard:--_hear_ me, or this +moment is my last.--With that he drew out a pistol, and held it to his +breast. + +And _dare_ you, said I, collecting all my resolution,--_dare_ you rush +into eternity, without one virtue to offer up with your polluted +soul?--I pronounc'd these words with steadiness.--_He_ trembled, he +look'd like a criminal at the hour of execution.--Letting the pistol +drop from his hand, the base dissembler fell on his knees before +me.--Nobody hearing my cries,--nobody coming to my assistance, I was +oblig'd to hear, and pretend to credit his penitential protestations. +God knows how my ears might have been farther shock'd with his odious +passion;--what indignities I might have suffer'd,--had I not heard some +person passing by the door of my apartment:--on which I ventur'd to +give another scream.--The door was instantly burst open; and whilst an +elderly Gentleman advanc'd towards me, full of surprize, the detested +brute slipp'd away.--This Gentleman, my good deliverer, was no other +than your Ladyship's banker, who when he was acquainted with my name, +insisted on taking me to Town in his own coach, where he was returning +from a visit he had made at Salisbury--I did not ask, neither do I know +what became of Smith; but I suppose he will set out with his wife +immediately for Dover.--Thank God! I am not of the party--How I pity +poor Miss Frances Walsh, a young Lady who, he told me, was waiting at +his house in Town to go over with them.--I am but just arriv'd at Mr. +Delves's house.--Mr. and Mrs. Delves think with me, that the character +of the _unworthy_ Smith should not be expos'd for the sake of his +_worthy_ wife.--The family here are all amiable.--I could say a great +deal more; but my head aches dreadfully.--This I must add, I have +consented, at the tender intreaties of Mr. and Mrs. Delves, to remain +with them 'till a proper opportunity offers to throw myself at your +Ladyship's feet.--My head grows worse;--I must lay down my pen.--This +bad man has certainly frighten'd me into a fever. + +[The following lines were added after Miss Powis's recovery] + +I hope, my dear Lady, before this you have Mr. Delves's letter;--if so, +you know I have had the small-pox.--You know too I am out of +danger.--How can I be thankful enough for so many escapes!--This is the +first day I have been able to hold a pen.--I am permitted to write no +more than the name of your honour'd and affectionate + +F. WARLEY. + + + + +LETTER XXXIX + +Captain RISBY to the Honourable GEORGE + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Will all the thanks,--all the gratitude,--the parents blessings,--their +infinity of joy, be contain'd in one poor sheet?--No:--Was I to repeat +half,--only half of what they send, you, I might write on for ever.--One +says you shall be their son;--another, their brother;--a third, that you +are a man most favour'd of heaven--but all agree, as a reward for your +virtues you are impower'd to heal afflictions--in short, they want to +make me think you can make black white--But enough for the vanity of one +man. + +I dread your coming to the Abbey.--We that are here already, shall only, +then, appear like pismires:--but let me caution my friend not to think +his head will touch the clouds. + +What man can bear to be twice disinherited?--Mr. Morgan's estate, which +the other day I was solely to possess, is now to devolve on the +Honourable George Molesworth.--_But mark me_:--As I have been +disinherited for you,--_you_ as certainly will be disinherited for Lord +Darcey. + +See what a man of consequence I am.--Does Captain Risby say +_this?_--Does Captain Risby say _that?_--Does Captain Risby think well +of it? + +Expect, George, to behold me push'd into perferment against my +will;--all great people _say_ so, you know;--expect to behold me preside +as governor of this castle.--Let me enjoy it then,--let me plume myself +beneath the sun-beam. + +If to witness the honours with I am surrounded, is insufficient to fill +your expanded heart;--if it looks out for a warmer gratification; you +shall see, you shall hear, the exulting parents?--you shall see Mr. +Morgan revers'd;--Mr. Watson restor'd to _more_ than sight--the steward +and his family worthy every _honour_ they receive from this _honourable +house_. + +I hear my _shadow_.--Strange, indeed! to hear _shadows_;--but more so to +hear them swear.--Ha! ha! ha!--Ha! ha! ha!--I cannot speak to it for +laughing.--Coming, Sir!--coming, Mr. Morgan!--Now is he cursing me in +every corner of the house;--I suppose dinner is on the table. + +This moment return'd from regaling myself with the happy family:--I mean +Sir James and Lady Powis, with their joyful inmates.--Mr. and Mrs. Powis +are set out for London.--As an addition to their felicity, Lady Powis +had a letter from her grand-daughter the instant they were stepping into +the chaise. + +For one hour I am at your command:--take, then, the particulars which I +was incapable of giving you by John.-- + +I was sitting in the library-window, talking to Mr. Watson; the Ladies, +Sir James, and Mr. Morgan, in the dressing-room, when I saw John riding +down the great road a full gallop.--At first I thought Lord Darcey had +been dead; then, again, consider'd his faithful servant would not have +come post with the news:--however, I had not patience to go through the +house, but lifting up a sash, jump'd out before he could reach the +stable yard.--Without speaking, I enquired of his face what tidings; and +was answer'd by a broad grin. I had nothing to fear from his message. + +Well, John, said I, running up to him,--how is your Lord? how is Mr. +Molesworth?-- + +Better, I thank God, Sir;--better, I thank God! With that he turned his +horse, and was riding across the lawn.-- + +Zounds, John, where are you going?--where are you going? + +Follow me, Sir;--follow me (setting up a brisk trot). If you kill me, I +dare not deliver letter or message before we are at a distance from the +Abbey. + +I thought him mad, but kept on by the side of his horse 'till we came to +the gate of a meadow, where he dismounted. + +Now, Sir,' said he, with a look that bespoke his consequence,--have +patience, whilst I tie up my horse. + +_Patience_, John! (and I swore at him) I am out of all _patience_. + +With that he condescended to deliver your letters.--I rambled with +surprise at the contents, and fell against a hedge.--John, who by this +time had fasten'd his steed, came up to me just as I recover'd my +legs;--and speaking close to my ear,--'Twas _John Warren_, Sir, was the +_man_ who found out the Lady; 'twas I was the _man_, Sir. + +I shook him heartily by the hand, but for my soul could not utter a +syllable.--I hope you are not ill, Sir, said the poor fellow, thinking +me seiz'd speechless.-- + +No, John;--no, reply'd I; it is only excess of pleasure.--You are a +welcome messenger:--you have made your fortune, John Warren, and please +your honour, has made his dear Lord happy;--that is more _pleasurable_ +to him than all the riches in the world. + +You are an honest, good creature, John. + +Ay, Captain; but was it not very sensible to remember the young Lady's +hand-writing?--Would a powder-headed monkey have had the forecast? + +Oh very sensible, John;--very sensible, indeed!--Now go the Abbey;--ask +for my servant;--say you was sent by Mr. Molesworth to enquire for the +family; but do not mention you have seen me:--I shall return by a +different way. + +John mounted immediately, and I walk'd full speed towards the house. I +found Mr. Morgan taking long strides up and down the dining-parlour, +puffing, blowing, and turning his wig on every side. + +Where have you been, Captain? I have sent to seek you.--Lord Darcey's +servant is without;--come to enquire how things are _here_.--I would not +let them send his message up;--but I have been out myself to ask for his +Lordship. + +Well, Sir, and what says the servant? + +Says!--Faith I hardly know what he says--something about hopes of +him:--to be plain, I should think it better if _hope_ was out of the +question.--If _he_ and all of _us_ were dead--But see John yourself; I +will send him to you. + +As he was just without the door, I drew him back,--and turn'd the key.-- + +Come hither, Sir;--Come hither, Mr. Morgan:--I have something of +importance to communicate. + +D----n ye, Captain, what's the matter now? (staring.)--I'll hear no more +bad news:--upon my soul, I'll run out of it (attempting to open the +door). + +Hold, Sir; why this impatience?--Miss Powis _lives!_--Will you run from +me now?--Miss Powis _lives!_--With that he sent forth a horrid +noise;--something betwixt howling and screaming.--It reach'd the +dressing-room, as well it might:--had the wind sat that way, I question +if the village would not have been alarm'd.--Down ran Sir James and Mr. +Powis into the library;--out jump'd Mr. Morgan.--I held up my hand for +him to retreat:--he disregarding the caution, I follow'd.--Sir James was +inquiring of a servant whence the noise had proceeded. + +It was I, said Mr. Morgan, rubbing his sides, and expressing the +agitation of joy by dumb shew;--it was I, beating one of my damn'd dogs +for running up stairs. + +If that is all, said Mr. Powis,--let us return to my mother and wife, +who are much hurried.--Away we went together, and the affair of the dog +pass'd very well on the Ladies. + +I sat musing for some moments how to introduce the event my heart +labour'd to give up.--_Every_ sigh that escap'd,--_every_ sorrowful look +that was interchang'd, I _now_ plac'd to my own account, because in _my_ +power to reverse the scene. + +Addressing myself to Mr. Powis, I ask'd if he knew Lord Darcey's servant +was below.--He shook his head;--No, he answer'd.--Then it is all _over_, +Risby, I suppose in a low voice?--I hardly wish for his _own_ sake he +may recover:--for _ours_, it would be selfish. + +He was not worse, I reply'd:--there was hope,--great hope he would do +well. + +Blessings attend him! cried Mrs. Powis.--tears starting afresh to her +swoln eyes;--then you really think, Mr. Risby, he may recover? + +If he does, Madam, return'd! he is flatter'd into life.--Flatter'd! said +Mr. Powis eagerly;--how flatter'd? + +Why, continued I, he has been told some persons are sav'd from the +wreck. + +Up they all started, surrounding me on every side:--there seem'd but one +voice, yet each ask'd if I credited the report. + +I said I did.-- + +Down they dropp'd on their knees, praying with uplifted hands their +dear,--dear child may be of the number.--Though nothing could equal the +solemnity of this scene, I could scarce command my countenance, when I +saw Mr. Morgan standing in the midst of the circle, his hat held up +before his face, and a cane under his arm. + +As they rose from their knees,--I gave them all the consolation I +thought at that moment they were capable of sustaining;--and assur'd +them no vigilance would be wanting to come at particulars.--I was ask'd, +if there was any letter from Mr. Molesworth?--When answer'd in the +affirmative,--the next question was, if it related to what I had just +disclos'd?--I equivocated in my reply, and withdrew to write the few +unconnected lines sent by John. + +After he was dispatch'd, I return'd immediately to the +hopeing,--fearing family.--Mr. Watson was sitting amidst them:--he +seem'd like a Being of purity presiding over hearts going to be rewarded +for resignation to the Divine will. + +He heard me as I enter'd: he rose from his seat as I came near him, and +pressing one of my hands between both his, whisper'd, I have seen Mr. +Morgan.--Then raising his voice, You are the messenger of joy, Mr. +Risby;--complete the happiness you have begun:--all present, pointing +round, are prepar'd to receive it. + +Here drops my pen.--I must not attempt this scene:--a Shakespeare would +have wrote it in tears. + +How infinite,--how dazzling the beauty of holiness!--Affliction seems to +have threaten'd this amiable family, only to encrease their +love,--their reverence,--their admiration of Divine +Omnipotence.--Blessings may appear, as a certain great man remarks, +under the shape of pain, losses, and disappointments;--but let us have +patience, and we shall see them in their own proper figures. + +If rewards even in this world attend the _virtuous_, who would be +_depraved?_--Could the loose, the abandon'd, look in on this happy +mansion, how would their sensual appetites be pall'd!--How would they +hate,--how detest the vanity,--the folly that leads to vice!--If +pleasure is their pursuit, here they might see it speaking at _mouth_ +and _eyes_:--_pleasures_ that fleet not away;--_pleasures_ that are +carried beyond the grave. + +What a family is this to take a wife from!--Lord Darcey's happiness is +insur'd:--in my conscience, there will not be such another couple in +England. + +Preparations are making to welcome the lovely successor of this ancient +house;--preparations to rejoice those whose satisfactions are +scanty,--to clothe the naked,--to feed the hungry,--to let the stately +roof echo with songs and mirth from a croud of chearful, honest, old +tenants. + +I often hear Mrs. Jenkings crying out in extasy,--My angel!--my sweet +angel!--As to the old gentleman and Edmund, they actually cannot refrain +from tears, when Miss Powis's name is mention'd.--Sir James and her +Ladyship are never easy without these good folks.--It has ever been an +observation of mine, that at an unexpected fortunate event, we are fond +of having people about us who feel on the same passion. + +Mr. Morgan is quite his own man again:--he has been regaling himself +with a fine hunt, whilst I attended Sir James and my Lady in an airing +round the park.--After dinner we were acquainted with all his losses and +crosses in the dog and horse way.--He had not seen _Filley_ rubb'd down +this fortnight:--the huntsman had lost three of his best hounds:--two +spaniels were lame;--and one of his running horses glander'd.--He +concluded with swearing, as things turn'd out, he did not matter it +_much_;--but had it happen'd three weeks since; he should have drove all +his servants to the devil.--Enough of Mr. Morgan.--Adieu, +Molesworth!--Forget not my congratulations to your noble, happy, friend. + +RISBY. + + + + +LETTER XL. + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH + +to RICHARD RISBY, Esq; + +_Dover_. + + +All is happiness, Dick!--I see nothing else; I hear of nothing else.--It +is the _last_ thing I take leave of at night;--the _first_ thing I meet +in the morning.--_Yesterday_ was full of it!--_yesterday_ I dined with +Mr. and Mrs. Powis and their charming daughter, at the Banker's.--To +look back, it seems as if I had gone through all the vexations of my +life in the last three weeks. + +Darcey would not let me rest 'till I had been to congratulate them, or +rather to satisfy his own impatience, being distracted to hear how Miss +Powis bore the great discovery.--Her fortitude is amazing!--But Sir +James has had every particular from his son, therefore I shall be too +late on that subject. + +The following short epistle I receiv'd from Mr. Powis, as I was setting +off for Town. + + +Mr. Powis to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. + +_London_, + + +"The first moment I can tear myself from the tender embraces of all my +hopes;--the first moment I can leave my belov'd daughter, I come to +Dover;--I come to acknowledge my gratitude to the noble-minded +Molesworth--I come to testify my affection to the generous, +disinterested Lord Darcey.--We pray for the recovery of his. Lordship's +health.--When that is establish'd, not one wish will be wanting to +complete the felicity of + +J. Powis." + + +The more I know of _this_ family, the more I admire them.--I _must_ be +their neighbour, that's certain--_Suppose_ I petition for a little spot +at one end of the park; _suppose_ you throw up your commission; and we +live together two snug batchelors. + +Darcey vows he will go to Town next week.--If fatigue should cause him +to relapse, what will become of us _then?_--But I will not think of that +_now_. + +We shall come down a joyful, cavalcade to the Abbey.--I long to see the +doors thrown open to receive us.--School-boy like, I shall first count +days;--next hours;--then minutes: though I am your's the same here, +there, and every where. + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XLI + +The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to the same. + +_London_. + + +Build in the park, and live batchelors!--Pish!--A horrid scheme!--I give +it up.--Over head and ears, Dick! + +Last Monday arriv'd at his Lordship's house in _St. James's-Square_, the +Right Honourable the Earl and Countess of Hampstead,--Lord Hallum,--the +Ladies Elizabeth and Sophia Curtis. + +_True_, as I hope to be sav'd;--and as _true_, that Lady Elizabeth and +Sophia _are_ blooming as angels. + +Three times have I sat down, _pen_ in my hand, _paper_ folded, yet could +not tune my mind to write one word.--Over head and ears! I say.-- + + +Past one in the morning!--All silent! Let me try if I can scribble now. + +First, I must tell you the body drove on shore at Dover, which I +concluded was Miss Powis's, is discover'd to be a Miss Frances Walsh, +going over in the yacht which was unfortunately cast-away;--the corpse +much defac'd:--but what confirm'd it to be the body of Miss Powis, was a +handkerchief taken from the neck mark'd F W.--Poor young Lady! her +friends, perhaps are suffering the excesses of grief which _you_ and I +have so lately witness'd.--But _this_ is a subject I shall not dwell on. + +I came to Town this evening with Darcey:--he bore the journey very +poorly;--sinking, fainting, all the way.--When we got to our lodgings, +and he was put into a bed, recovering a little, he press'd me to go to +the Banker's.--I saw his impatience, and went immediately. + +My name was no sooner sent up, than Mr. Powis flew to receive +me.--Welcome, my friend! said he; you come opportunely. We have a noble +family with us that has been just wishing to see Mr. Molesworth.--He had +time for no more; the door open'd.--What was my surprize to be embrac'd +by Lord Hampstead and Lord Hallum, by them, led to the Countess and our +two divinities, _whose_ mild eyes,--_whose_ elegant deportment, told me +_Loves_ and _Graces_ had put a finishing stroke to the great work of +_virtue_ and _humility_.--Lady Mary Sutton,--yes, Lady Mary Sutton too +was there: she advanc'd towards me, Miss Powis in her hand. + +I have the honour, said Mr. Powis, of presenting Lady Mary Sutton (the +source of all my felicity) to Mr. Molesworth.--Then addressing himself +to her Ladyship, Permit me, Madam, to introduce to you the friend I +love. + +If ever I wish'd to shine, it was then--I would have given the world for +eloquence;--nay, common understanding.--The former I _never_ +possessed:--A surprize and pleasure had flown away with the +latter.--Miss Powis has that looks through one's very soul--a sweet +compassionate eye: the dignity it expresses bespeaks your +confidence.--She perceived my embarrassment, and said, Come, Mr. +Molesworth, let me have the satisfaction of placing you next Lady Mary. +So down sat the stupid blockhead.--Her Ladyship is very chatty, and very +affable; she said a thousand obliging things; but half was lost upon +me, whilst I watch'd the lips of my fair Elizabeth. + +Mr. Mrs. Powis, and Lady Mary, enquired affectionately after the health +of Lord Darcey. When I said he was come to Town, up flew the heart's +tell-tale to the face of Miss Powis.--Her father and mother ask'd, if +they might have the happiness of waiting on his Lordship next +morning.--I arose to assure them what joy their visit would occasion; +when having settled the hour, and so forth, I slid to a chair vacant +between Lady Elizabeth and Lady Sophia,--How enchanting _did_ they +look!--how enchanting _did_ they speak!--No reserve;--all +frankness;--the same innocence in their manners as at fifteen;--the +vivacity of the French,--the sedateness of the English, how charmingly +blended! + +Risby, thou art a fortunate fellow: Lady Sophia speaks of thee with +esteem. + +The sweet syrens--_syrens_ only by attraction--held me by the ear +upwards of an hour.--From them I learnt Lady Mary Sutton came to +England, on receiving an account from Mr. Delves that Miss Powis had the +small-pox.--Happy for us, Dick, they lov'd Lady Mary too well to stay +behind her! + +As I was listening to their entertaining descriptions of places abroad, +we were join'd by Lord Hallum.--Molesworth, said his Lordship, I will +not suffer these girls to engage you solely:--My prating sisters are +grown so saucy that I am obliged to be a very tyrant.-- + +A spirited conversation ensued, in which the cherub sisters bore away +the palm. + +More and more sick of my batchelor notions!--Yet I aver, that state +should be my choice, rather than swallow one grain of indifference in +the matrimonial pill, gilder'd over ever so nicely.--Think what _must_ +be my friendship for Darcey, to tear myself from this engageing circle +before nine!--As I was taking my leave, Lady Mary stepp'd towards +me.--To-morrow, Mr. Molesworth, said her Ladyship, I bespeak the favour +of your company and Lord Darcey's to dine with me in _Pall-Mall_:--I +bow'd, and answer'd both for his Lordship and myself. + +We shall rejoice, continued she, to congratulate your friend on his +recovery,--looking with peculiar meaning at Miss Powis.--I think by +_that_ look there will be an interview between the _lovers_, though I +did not say so much to Darcey.--He requires sleep: none would he have +had, if he knew my surmises.--I'll to bed, and dream of Lady +Elizabeth;--_so_ good night, Dick. + + +Twelve o'clock at noon. + +Mr. and Mrs. Powis this moment gone;--Lord Darcey dressing to meet them +in _Pall-Mall_.--Yes, they are to be there;--and the whole groupe of +beauties are to be there;--Miss Powis,--Lady Elizabeth,--Lady +Sophia,--and the little sprightly hawk-eyed Delves.--Risby, _you_ know +nothing of _life_; you are _dead_ and _buried_. + +I will try to be serious.--Impossible! my head runs round and round with +pleasure.--The interview was affecting to the last degree.--Between +whom?--Why Darcey, Mr. and Mrs.--faith I can write no more. + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XLII. + +The Hon. GEORGE MOLESWORTH to the same. + +_London_ + + +The day of days is over! + +I am too happy to sleep:--exquisite felicity wants not the common +supports of nature.--In such scenes as I have witness'd, the _soul_ +begins to know herself:--she gives us a peep into futurity:--the +enjoyments of this day has been all her own. + +Once more I regain the beaten path of narrative. + +Suppose me then under the hands of hair-dressers, valets, &c. &c. &c. I +hate those fellows about me:--but the singularity of this visit made me +undergo their tortures with tolerable patience.--Now was the time when +Vanity, under pretence of respect, love, and decorum, usher'd in her +implements. + +It was about two when we were set down at Lady Mary Sutton's.--Darcey +trembled, and look'd so pale at coming out of his chair, that I desir'd +a servant to shew us to a room, where we might be alone 'till Mr. Powis +was inform'd of our being in the house.--He instantly came with Lady +Mary.--Tender welcomes and affectionate caresses fill'd him with new +life.--Her Ladyship propos'd he should first see Miss Powis in her +dressing-room;--that none should be present but Mr. and Mrs. Powis, her +Ladyship, and your humble servant. + +Judge how agreeable this must be to his Lordship, whose extreme weakness +consider'd, could not have supported this interview before so much +company as were assembled in the drawing-room. + +The plan settled, Lady Mary withdrew to prepare Miss Powis for our +reception.--A footman soon came with a message from her Ladyship that +she expected us. + +I was all compassionate at this moment:--the conflicts of my feeble +friend were not to be conceal'd.--We follow'd Mr. Powis;--the door +open'd;--Darcey turn'd half round, and laying his cold clammy hand on +mine, said, Oh Molesworth! my happiness is in view!--how can I meet it? + +Inimitable creature!--Can I describe your reception of my friend?--can I +describe the dignity of beauty;--the melting softness of +sensibility;--the blushing emotion of surprize?--No, Risby;--impossible! + +The Ladies stood to receive us; Miss Powis supported between her mother +and Lady Mary;--_she_ all graceful timidity;--_they_ all extasy and +rapture.--Do you not expect to see Darcey at the feet of his +mistress?--No; at Mrs. Powis's, at Lady Mary's, he fell. + +The eyes of his Adorable glisten'd.--He was rais'd, and embrac'd +tenderly--by the parents,--by Lady Mary.--Mr. Powis said, presenting him +to his delighted daughter, _You_, my dear, must make _our_ returns of +gratitude to Lord Darcey;--giving him her more than passive hand, which +he press'd to his lips with fervor, saying, _This_ is the hour my soul +has flown up to petition--Dearest, best of women! tell me I am welcome. + +She attempted to reply;--it was only an attempt. + +She does bid you welcome, return'd Mr. Powis;--her _heart_ bids you +welcome. + +Indeed, said she, I am not ungrateful:--_indeed_, my Lord, I am not +insensible to the obligations you have laid me under. + +As these words escap'd her, you must certainly take in the whole +countenance of Darcey. + +By this time we were seated, and Lady Mary return'd to the company. + +Honour'd as I am, said his Lordship, addressing Miss Powis, will you +permit me, Madam, in presence of your revered parents,--in presence of +the friend to whom every wish of my heart has been confess'd;--will you +permit me to hope you are not offended by my application to Sir +James?--May I hope for your-- + +Friendship, my Lord (reply'd she, interrupting him); you may command my +friendship. + +_Friendship!_ (retorted he) Miss Powis, starting up:--is that _all I_ am +to expect?--Can I accept your _friendship?_--No, Madam, the man who +would have died for you aspires to more than _friendship_;--he aspires +to your _love_. + +I am no stranger, my Lord, return'd she, to the honour you intend me;--I +am no stranger to _your_ worth;--but I have scruples;--scruples that +seem to me insurmountable. + +I never saw him so affected. + +For heaven's sake, Madam, he answer'd, don't drive me to despair:--tear +not open the wound which the hand of Mercy has just clos'd:--my +shatter'd frame will not bear another rub from fortune.--_What +scruples?_--Tell me, Miss Powis, I conjure you. + +You have none, my dear child, said Mrs. Powis. You have none, Fanny, +said Mr. Powis, but what his Lordship can remove. + +Indeed, Sir!--indeed, Madam! replied she, I meant not to give Lord +Darcey pain.--Then turning to him in a tender, soothing accent,--Your +peace, my Lord, has never been lightly regarded by me.--Here he +brighten'd up,--and said, taking her hand, You know not, Miss Powis, +from the first moment I saw you, how ardent,--how steady has been my +love. + +Why _then_ my Lord, resum'd she--_why_ endeavour to gain my affections, +yet hide your preference for me from the _world_;--even from +_myself?_--Think of the _day_ Lord Allen dined at the Abbey;--think what +pass'd in a walk preceding _that_ you set out for town:--on both +these,--on many others, how mysterious your conduct?--If you thought me +worthy your regard, my Lord, why _such_ mysteries? + +For God's sake, my dear,--dear Miss Powis, said Darcey, suffer me to +vindicate myself.--Pardon me, my Lord (continued the angel that +harangued him) hear me patiently another moment, and I will listen to +your vindication. + +She went on. + +From whence can I suppose, my Lord, your embarrassments proceeded, if +not from _some_ entanglement grown irksome?--No; before I can promise +_myself_ happiness, I must be first satisfied I do not borrow that +_happiness_ from _another_. + +_Another_, Madam! repeated he, throwing himself at her feet:--May all my +brighter prospects fly me;--may my youth be blighted by the loss of +reason if I have ever lov'd _another!_ + +She was affected with the solemnity of his air: one pearly drop stray'd +down her cheek;--one that escap'd the liquid body of tenderness +assembled in her eyes:--she could not speak, but held out her snowy +hand for him to be seated. + +He obey'd; and placing himself next her, so clearly accounted for that +part of his conduct she call'd mysterious, that Mr. and Mrs. Powis both +at once exclaim'd, Now, my dear, complete our felicity;--now all your +_scruples must_ be over. + +And do you, said she, my tender, my indulgent parents, rising and +throwing herself into their arms;--do you say it is in _my_ power to +complete your felicity?--_Will_ confessing a preference for Lord +Darcey;--_will_ declaring I wish you to prefer him to your +daughter;--will _that_ complete it? + +My friend caught the blushing beauty from the arms of her parents, and, +frantic with joy, folded her to his bosom, standing as if he wonder'd at +his own happiness. + +What innocence in the look of Miss Powis, when she greatly acknowledg'd +her heart!--How reverse from _this_ innocence, _this_ greatness, is the +_prudish hypocrite_, who forbids _even_ her features to say she is +susceptible of love! You may suppose a profusion of friendly +acknowledgments fell to _my_ share; but I am not vain enough to repeat +them. + +It is well Lady Elizabeth stands portress at the door of my +heart:--there is such bustling and pushing to get in;--but, +notwithstanding her Ladyship's vigilance, Miss Powis has slipp'd by, and +sits perch'd up in the same corner with Darcey. + +If you go back to Lady Mary's dressing-room, you will find nobody +_there_:--but give a peep into the dining-parlour, and you will see us +just set down at dinner;--_all_ smiling,--_all_ happy;--an inexhaustible +fountain of pleasure in every breast. + +I will go down to Slope Hall;--give Lady Dorothy a hint that she has it +now in her power to make one man happy;--_a hint_ I believe she never +had before.--A snug twenty thousand added to my present fortune,--the +hand of Lady Elizabeth,--and then, Risby, get hold of my skirts, and you +mount with me. + +Next Tuesday prepare, as governor of the castle, for a warm +siege.--_Such_ a battery of eyes,--_such_ bundles of darts,--_such_ +stores of smiles,--_such_ a train of innocence will be laid before the +walls, as never was withstood!--No; I shall see you _cap-a-pee_ open the +gates to the besiegers.--Away goes my pen.--I write no more positively. + +MOLESWORTH. + + + + +LETTER XLIII. + +Miss DELVES to Mrs. DELVES. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Are you well, Madam? Is my dear father well? Tell me you are, and never +was so happy a creature as your daughter. I tremble with pleasure,--with +joy,--with delight:--but I _must_--my duty, my affection, every thing +says I _must_ sit down to write.--You did not see how we were marshall'd +at setting out:--I wish you could have got up early enough:--never was +there such joyous party! + +All in Lady Mary's dining-room by seven;--the fine equipages at the +door;--servants attending in rich new liveries, to the number of +twenty;--Lord Darcey and his heavenly bride that is to be,--smiling on +each other,--smiling on all around;--Lady Mary Sutton--yes, _she_ is +heavenly _too_;--I believe I was the only earthly creature amongst +them;--Lord and Lady Hampstead,--the angelic Ladies Elizabeth and +Sophia,--Mr. Molesworth,--the generous, friendly, open-hearted Mr. +Molesworth,--Lord Hallum.--But why mention him last?--Because, Bessy, I +suppose he was _last_ in your thoughts.--Dear Madam, how can you think +so? + +In Lady Mary's coach went her Ladyship, Lord Darcey, Mrs. and Miss +Powis:--in Lord Hampstead's, his Lordship, Lady Hampstead, Lady +Elizabeth, and Mr. Molesworth:--in Lord Darcey's, Lady Sophia, Mr. +Powis, Lord Hallum, and your little _good-for-nothing_:--in Mr. Powis's, +the women-servants.--We lay fifty miles short of the Abbey, and the next +evening reach'd it at seven. + +We reach'd Barford Abbey, I say--but what shall I say _now?_--I cannot +do justice to what I have seen of duty,--of affection,--of joy,--of +hospitality.--Do, dear Madam, persuade my father to purchase a house in +_this_ neighbourhood. + +Servants were posted at the distance of six miles to carry intelligence +when we should approach.--I suppose in their way back it was proclaim'd +in the village:--men, women, and children, lined the road a mile from +the Abbey, throwing up their hats with loud huzzaing,--bells ringing in +every adjacent parish;--bonfires on every rising ground;--in short, we +were usher'd in like conquerors.--The coachmen whipp'd up their horses +full speed through the park;--thump, thump, went my heart, when by a +number of lights I discover'd we were just at the house. + +What sensations did I feel when the carriages stopp'd!--At the entrance +stood Sir James and Lady Powis,--the Chaplain,--Mr. Morgan,--Captain +Risby,--you know their characters, Madam;--every servant in the house +with a light:--but who could have stay'd within at this juncture? + +The first coach that drove up was Lady Mary's. Out sprang Lord Darcey, +Miss Powis in his hand; both in a moment lock'd in parental +embraces.--Good heaven, what extasy!--I thought Mr. Watson and Mr. +Morgan would have fought a duel which should first have folded Miss +Powis in his arms, whilst Sir James and Lady Powis quitted her to +welcome Lady Mary.--We were all receiv'd tenderly affectionate:--a +reception none can have an idea of, but those who have been at Barford +Abbey. + +In my way to the house, I suppose I had a hundred kisses:--_God knows +from whom_.--What can I say of Lord Hampstead's family?--what of Mr. +Molesworth?--The general notice taken of him is sufficient.--Absolutely +that charming man will be spoil'd.--Pity to set him up for an idol!--I +hope he will not _always_ expect to be worshipp'd--Mr. Risby +_too_--Well, I'll mention you all, one after another, as fast as +possible.--Let me see, where did I leave off?--Oh! we were just out of +our carriages.--And now for the pathetics:--an attempt;--a humble +attempt only. + +Lady Powis, Lady Mary, and their darling, had given us the slip.--What +could be done?--I mean with Mr. Morgan:--he was quite outrageous.--What +could be done? I repeat.--Why Sir James, to pacify him, said, we should +all go and surprize them in his Lady's dressing-room.--We did go;--we +did surprize them;--great God! in what an attitude!--The exalted Lady +Powis at the feet of Lady Mary;--Miss Powis kneeling by her;--she +endeavouring to raise them.--I said it would be an attempt at the +pathetics;--it must be an attempt:--I can proceed no farther. + +To be sure, Mr. Morgan is a queer-looking man, but a great favourite at +the Abbey.--He took Miss Powis on his knee;--call'd her a hundred times +his dear, dear daughter;--and I could not forbear laughing, when he told +her he had not wore a tye-wig before these twenty years. This drew me to +observe his dress, which, unless you knew the man, you can have no idea +how well it suited him:--a dark snuff-colour'd coat with gold buttons, +which I suppose by the fashion of it, was made when he accustomed +himself to _tye-wigs_;--the lace a rich orrice; but then it was so +immoderately short, both in the sleeves and skirts, that whilst full +dress'd he appeared to want cloathing. + +The _next_ morning,--ay, the _next_ morning, then it was I lost my +freedom.--Disrob'd of his gingerbread coat, I absolutely sell a +sacrifice to a plain suit of broad cloth,--or rather, to a noble, plain +heart.--Now pray, dear Madam, do not cross me in my _first_ love;--at +least, _see_ Mr. Morgan, before you command me to give him up:--and you, +sweet Sir, steal to a corner of your new possession, whilst I take +notice of those who are capering to my fingers ends. + +You have seen Miss Powis, Madam, on Mr. Morgan's knee;--you have heard +him say enough to fill any other girl than myself with jealousy:--nay, +Madam, you may smile;--he really makes love to me.--But for a moment let +me forget my lover;--let me forget his _melting_ sighs,--his _tender_ +protections,--his _persuasive_ eloquence,--his air _so_ +languishing:--let me forget them _all_, I say, and lead you to the +library, where by a message flew Miss Powis.--A look from her drew me +after:--I suppose Lord Darcey had a touch from the same magnet. + +A venerable pair with joy next to phrenzy caught her in their extended +arms, as the door open'd. My _kind_, my dear, _ever_ dear friends, said +the lovely creature,--and is it _thus_ we meet? is it _thus_ I return to +you?--Mr. Jenkings clasp'd her to him; but his utterance was quite +choak'd:--the old Lady burst into a flood of tears, and then cried +out,--How great is thy mercy, O God!--Suffer me to be grateful.--Again +she flew to their arms;--again they folded her to their bosoms.--Lord +Darcey too embrac'd them;--he condescendingly kiss'd their hands;--he +said, next to the parents of his Fanny,--next to Lady Mary, they were +most dear to him.--Miss Powis seated herself between them, and hung +about the neck of Mrs. Jenkings;--whilst his Lordship, full of +admiration, look'd as if his great soul labour'd for expression.-- + +Overcome with tender scenes, I left the library.--I acquainted Lady Mary +who was there, and she went to them immediately.--Mr. Watson and Mr. +Morgan for a quarter of an hour were all my own;--captain Risby, Mr. +Molesworth, Lady Elizabeth and Sophia, being engag'd in a conversation +at another part of the room:--you may _guess_ our subject, Madam;--but I +declare, whilst listening to Mr. Watson, I thought myself soaring above +earthly enjoyments.-- + +Sir James, who had follow'd Lady Mary, soon return'd with her Ladyship, +Miss Powis, Lord Darcey, and, what gave me heart-felt pleasure, the +steward and his wife;--an honour they with difficulty accepted, as they +were strangers to Lord Hampstead's family.-- + +Who says there is not in this life perfect happiness?--I say they are +mistaken:--such felicity as I here see and partake of, cannot be call'd +imperfect--How comes it that the domestics of _this_ family _so_ much +surpass those of _other_ people?--how is it _one_ interest governs the +whole?--I want to know a thousand mysteries.--I could write,--I could +think eternally,--of the first happy evening.--First happy evening do I +say? And can the days that crown that eve be forgot?--Heaven forbid! at +least whilst I have recollection.--My heart speaks so fast to my pen, +that fain my fingers would,--but cannot keep up with it. + +The next morning Lord Darcey introduc'd to us the son of Mr. +Jenkings.--A finer youth I never saw!--Well might the old gentleman be +_suspicious_.--Few fathers would, like _him_, have sacrificed the +interest of a son, to preserve that of a friend.--To know the real rank +of Miss Powis;--her ten thousand virtues;--her great expectations; yet +act with so _much_ caution!--with an anxiety which the most sordid miser +watching his treasure, could not have exceeded! and for _what?_--Why +lest involuntarily she might enrich his belov'd son with _her_ +affections.--Will you part with me to this extraordinary man?--Only for +an hour or two.--A walk is propos'd.--Our ramble will not be farther +than his house.--You say I may go. Thank you, Madam: I am gone. + +Just return'd from the steward's, so cramm'd with sweet-meats, cake, and +jellies, that I am absolutely stupified. + +I must tell you who led Miss Powis.--Lord Darcey, to be sure.--No, +Madam; I had the favour of his Lordship's arm:--it was Edmund.--I call +him Edmund;--every body calls him Edmund;--_yes_, and at Lord Darcey's +request _too_.--Never shall I forget in what a graceful manner!--But his +Lordship does every thing with grace.--He mention'd something of past +times, hinting he should not always have courted him to _such_ honour, +presenting the hand of his belov'd. + +I wish I could send you her look at that moment; it was all love,--all +condescension.--I say I cannot send it.--Mortifying! I cannot even +borrow _it_. + +Adieu, dear Madam!--Adieu, dear Sir!--Adieu, you best of parents--It is +impossible to say which is most dear to your ever dutiful and +affectionate + +E. DELVES. + + + + +LETTER XLIV. + +Miss DELVES to the same. + +_Barford Abbey_. + + +Lost my heart _again!_--Be not surpriz'd, Madam; I lose and find it ten +times a day;--yet it never strays from Barford Abbey.--The last account +you had from me it was button'd inside Mr. Morgan's +hunting-frock:--since that, it has been God knows with whom:--sometimes +wrapt in a red coat;--sometimes in a blue;--sometimes in a green:--but +finding many competitors flew to black, where it now lies snug, warm, +and easy.--Restless creature! I will never take it home again. + +What think you, Madam, of a _Dean_ for a son-in-law? + +What do I think? you say.--Why the gentlemen of the church have too much +sense and gravity to take my madcap off my hands.--Well, Madam, but +suppose the Dean of H---- now you look pleas'd.--Oh, the Dean of +_H----!_ What the _Dean_, Bessy, that Lady Mary used to talk of:--the +_Dean_ that married Mr. and Mrs. Powis. + +As sure as I live, Madam, the _very_ man:--and _to-morrow,--to-morrow at +ten_, he is to unite their lovely daughter with Lord Darcey.--Am I not +_very_ good,--_extremely_ good, _indeed_, to sit down and write,--when +every person below is solacing themselves on the approach of this happy +festival? + +I would suffer shipwreck ten times;--ten times would I be drove on +uninhabited islands, for such a husband as Lord Darcey.--Miss Powis's +danger was only imaginary, yet _she_ must be _so_ rewarded.--Well, she +_shall_ be rewarded:--she _ought_ to be rewarded:--Lord Darcey shall +reward her. + +But is it not _very_ hard upon your _poor_ girl, that _all_ the young +smarts we brought down, and _that_ which we found _here_, should have +dispos'd of their hearts?--_All_;--even Lord Hallum,--_he_ who used to +boast so much of freedom,--now owns he has dispos'd of his.-- + +But to whom?--Aye: that's a question.-- + +They think, perhaps, the _old_ stuff will do well enough for poor +me!--Thanks to my genius, I can set my cap at any thing. + +Why there's something tolerable in the sound of a Dean's Lady--Let me +see if it will do.--"The _Deans's_ coach;--the _Dean's_ +servants."--Something better this than a plain _Mr._ + +Here comes Miss Powis. Now shall I be forc'd to huddle this into my +pocket.--I am resolv'd she shall not see the preferment I have chalk'd +out for myself.--No, no; I must be secret, or I shall have it taken from +me. + +_This_ Miss Powis,--_this_ very dutiful young Lady, that I used to have +set up for a pattern,--_now_ tells me that I _must_ write no more; +_that_ you will not expect to hear from me 'till the next post.--If I +_must_ take Miss Powis's advice in everything;--if I _must_ be guided by +_her_;--you know _who_ said this, Madam;--why then there is an end of my +scribbling for this night.--But remember it is not _my_ fault.--No, +indeed, I was sat down as sober sedate as could be.--Quite fit for a +Dean's Lady?--Yes;--quite fit, indeed.--Now comes Lady Elizabeth and +Lady Sophia.--Well, it is impossible, I find, to be dutiful in this +house. + + +Thursday, twelve o'clock at noon. + +Bless my soul! one would think I was the bride by my shaking and +quaking! Miss Powis is--Lady Darcey.--Down drops my letter:--Yes, dear +Madam, I see you drop it to run and tell my father. + +I may write on _now_;--I may do what I will;--Lord and Lady Darcey are +_every_ thing with _every_ body Well as I love them, I was not present +at the ceremony:--I don't know why neither.--Not a soul but attended, +except your poor foolish girl--At the window I stood to see them go, and +never stirr'd a step 'till they return'd.--Mr. Molesworth gave her +away.--I vow I thought near as handsome as the bridegroom.--But what +signifies my thinking him handsome?--I'll ask Lady Elizabeth by and bye +what she thinks.--Now for a little about it, before I ature myself with +implements of destruction.--The Dean is not quite dead yet; but if he +live out this day,--I say, he is invulnerable. + +Let us hear no more of yourself:--tell us of Lord and Lady Darcey + +Have patience, Madam, and I will, + +Well, _their_ dress?--Why _their_ faces were dress'd in smiles of +love:--Nature's charms should always take place of art.--You see with +what order I proceed. + +Lord Darcey was dress'd in white richly lac'd with gold;--Lady Darcey in +a white lutestring negligee nounc'd deep with a silver net;--no cap, a +diamond sprig; her hair without powder; a diamond necklace and +sleeve-knots;--bracelets set round with diamonds; and let me tell you, +her jewels are a present from my first Adorable;--on the knowledge of +which I discarded him.--No, no, Mr. Morgan; you are not a _jewel_ of +yourself neither.--Lady Darcey would have wore quite a morning +dishabille, if the vain old Gentleman had not requested the +contrary:--so forsooth, to humour him, we must be all put out of our +way. + +There they are on the lawn, as I hope to live, going to invite in +Caesar.--Only an old dog, Madam, that lives betwixt this house and the +steward's. + +Lady Elizabeth and Mr. Molesworth, Lady Sophia and Captain Risby,--Oh, I +long to be with you!--throw no more gravel to my window.--I _will_ be +dutiful;--in spite of your allurements, I _will_. + +I left them in the library, inspecting a very charming piece, just +brought from Brandon Lodge, done by the hand of Lady Mary Sutton.--Upon +my word, they have soon conn'd it over:--but I have not told you it is +the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Powis;--my dear Dean too joining their +hands.-- + +God defend me! there he is, hopping out.--I wish he had kept +within.--Why, Sir, I should have been down in a moment: then we might +have had the most comfortable tete-a-tete. + +Seriously, Madam--now I am _really_ serious--can you believe, after +beholding Lord and Lady Darcey, I will ever be content with a moderate +share of happiness?--No, I will die first.--To see them at this instant +would be an antidote for indifference.--Not any thing of foolish +fondness:--no; that will never be seen in Lord and Lady Darcey.--Their +happiness is not confin'd:--we are all refreshed by it:--it pours forth +from their homes like streams flowing from a pure terrain.--I think I +said I could not go to church:--no, not for the world would I have +gone:--I expected Miss Powis would be crying, fainting, and I know not +what.--Instead of all this fuss, not a tear was shed.--I thought every +body cried when they were married:--those that _had_, or had _not_ +cause.--Well, I am determin'd to appear satisfied, however, if the yoke +is a little galling. + +How charming look'd Miss Powis, when she smil'd on Lord Darcey!--On Lord +Darcey? On every body I mean.--And for him--But I must forget his +air,--his words,--his looks, if ever I intend to say love, honour, and +obey.--Once I am brought to say love,--honour and obey will slide off +glibly enough. I must go down amongst them. Believe me, Madam, I shut +myself up to write against intreaties,--against the most persuasive +eloquence. + +This is the day when the Powis family are crown'd with felicity.--I +think on it with rapture.--I will set it down on the heart of your +dutiful and affectionate + +E. Delves. + + + + +LETTER XLV. + +Miss Delves to the same. + +_Barford Abbey_ + + +Surely I must smell of venison,--roast beef, and plumb-puddings.--Yes, I +smell of the Old English hospitality.--_You_, Madam, have no tenants to +regale so;--are safe from such troubles on my account.--Will you believe +me, Madam, I had rather see their honest old faces than go to the finest +opera ever exhibited.--What think you of a hundred-and-seven chearful +farmers sitting at long tables spread with every thing the season can +afford;--two hogsheads of wine at their elbows;--the servants waiting on +them with assiduous respect:--Their songs still echo in my ears. + +I thought the roof would have come down, when Lord and Lady Darcey made +their appearance.--Some sung one tune,--some another;--some paid +extempore congratulations;--others that had not a genius, made use of +ballads compos'd on the marriage of the King and Queen.--One poor old +soul cried to the Butler, because he could neither sing or repeat a +verse.--Seeing his distress, I went to him, and repeated a few lines +applicable to the occasion, which he caught in a moment, and tun'd away +with the best of them. + +Lord and Lady Hampstead are so delighted with the honest rustics, that +they declare every Christmas their tenants shall be regal'd at Hallum +Grove. + +What can one feel equal to the satisfaction which arises on looking out +in the park?--Three hundred poor are there feasting under a shed erected +for the purpose;--cloath'd by Sir James and Lady Powis;--_so_ +clean,--_so_ warm,--_so_ comfortable, that to see them at this moment, +one would suppose they had never tasted of poverty. + +Lord Darcey has order'd two hundred guineas to be given amongst +them,--that to-morrow might not be less welcome to them than this day. + +For my part, I have only two to provide for out of the number;--a pretty +little boy and girl, that pick'd me up before I came to the shed.--The +parents of those children were very good, and gave them to me on my +first application. + +Here comes Mrs. Jenkings.--_Well_, what pleasing thing have you to tell +me, Mrs. Jenkings? + +Five hundred pounds, as I live, to be given to the poor to-morrow from +Lady Mary Sutton.-- + +What blessings will follow us on our journey! I believe I have not told +you, Madam, we set out for Faulcum Park on Monday.--_Not_ to stay:--no, +I thank God we are _not_ to stay.--If Lord and Lady Darcey were to +inhabit Faulcum Park, yet it would not be to _me_ like Barford +Abbey,--Barford Abbey is to be their home whilst Sir James and Lady +Powis live. + +Lord Hallum wants me to walk with him.--Not I, indeed:--I hate a +_tete-a-tete_ with heartless men.--On second thoughts, I will go. + +Oh Madam! out of breath with astonishment!--What think you:--I am the +confidante of Lord Hallum's passion;--with permission too of the earl +and countess.--Heavens! and can you guess, Madam, who it is he +loves?--Adieu, my _dear,--dear_ Dean!--Need I say more?--Will you not +spare the blushes of your happy daughter, + +E. DELVES. + + + + +FINIS. + + + + + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Barford Abbey, by Susannah Minific Gunning + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BARFORD ABBEY *** + +***** This file should be named 13314.txt or 13314.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/3/1/13314/ + +This eBook was produced by Jonathan Ingram, Josephine Paolucci and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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