for the present is, permission to correspond with Georgiana, for I have reason to believe I shall not be long absent. We are both of us young enough I know to wait, but I confess I am by no means patient in matters that concern one nearly."
Whilst these things were going on in Kent, what were the "sayings and doings" of Welbeck Street? for thither we must return, though to quit the family party at Meersbrook, in their integrity and kindness, to contemplate Lady Anne and her contrivances, is quitting the light of day for the gloom of Stygian night.
"Georgiana, put on your blue muslin, and ask Fanchette to make your hair a little comme-il-faut; and pray try to look well and cheerful; you were not up late, and ought to appear the better for it."
"I slept very little last night, I confess, ma'am."
"Then take a turn in the square, but don't stay a moment beyond the half hour—you will still have time to change your dress."
"What is mamma going to do, I wonder?" said Georgiana to Helen.
"I fear to tell you, my love, yet I think I ought to do so. The Marquis of Wentworthdale is going to call and see if you are better. Lady Anne told him last night you were poorly."
"He is a very nice old man, and if he wants to say any thing particular to mamma, he can surely do it better than through the medium of her daughters."
