She would most gladly go, she said, were she not to stay about me by my
mother's order.
It soon appeared for what she staid; for I offering to go up stairs to
my apartment when my cousin went from me with the keys, she told me she
was commanded (to her very great regret, she must own) to desire me not
to go up at present.
Such a bold face, as she, I told her, should not hinder me.
She instantly rang the bell, and in came my brother, meeting me at the
door.
Return, return, Miss--no going up yet.
I went in again, and throwing myself upon the window-seat, wept
bitterly.
Shall I give you the particulars of a ridiculously-spiteful conversation
that passed between my brother and me, in the time that he (with
Betty) was in office to keep me in the parlour while my closet was
searching!--But I think I will not. It can answer no good end.
I desired several times, while he staid, to have leave to retire to my
apartment; but was denied. The search, I suppose, was not over.
Bella was one of those employed in it. They could not have a more
diligent searcher. How happy it was they were disappointed!
But when my sister could not find the cunning creature's papers, I was
to stand another visit from Mr. Solmes--preceded now by my aunt Hervey,
solely against her will, I could see that; accompanied by my uncle
Antony, in order to keep her steady, I suppose.
But being a little heavy (for it is now past two in the morning) I
will lie down in my clothes, to indulge the kind summons, if it will be
indulged.