Sir Charles returned with the ladies. He presented to Lady Olivia and
her aunt, Lady G----, Lord L----, and Lord W----. I was in another
apartment talking with Dr. Bartlett. Lady Olivia asked for the doctor.
He left me to pay his respects to her.
Sir Charles being informed, that I was in the house, told Lady Olivia,
that he hoped he should have the honour of presenting to her one of our
English beauties; desiring Lady G---- to request my company.
Lady G---- came to me--A lovely woman, I assure you, Harriet; let me lead
you to her.
Sir Charles met me at the entrance of the drawing-room: Excuse me, madam,
said he, taking my hand, with profound respect, and allow me to introduce
to a very amiable Italian lady, one who does so much honour to Britain.--
Miss Byron, madam, addressing himself to her, salutes you. The
advantages of person are her least perfection.
Her face glowed. Miss Byron, said she, in French, is all loveliness. A
relation, sir? in Italian.
He bowed; but answered not her question.
I would sooner forgive you here, whispered Lady Olivia to Sir Charles, in
Italian, looking at me, than at Bologna.
I heard her; and by my confusion shewed that I understood her. She was
in confusion too.
Mademoiselle, said she, in French, understands Italian.--I am ashamed,
monsieur.
Miss Byron does, answered Sir Charles; and French too.
I must have the honour, said she in French, to be better known to you,
mademoiselle.