_Chesington, Monday, Aug. 12_--I set out for this ever dear place,
accompanied by Edward,[151] who was sent for to paint Mr. Crisp for my
father. I am sure you will rejoice in this. I was a little dumpish in
the journey, for I seemed leaving my Susan again. However, I read a
“Rambler” or two, and “composed the harmony of my temper,” as well as I
could, for the sake of Edward, who was not only faultless of this, but
who is, I almost think, faultless of all things. I have thought him more
amiable and deserving, than ever, since this last sojourn under the same
roof with him; and, as it happened, I have owed to him almost all the
comfort I have this time met with here.
We came in a chaise, which was well loaded with canvasses, pencils, and
painting materials; for Mr. Crisp was to be three times painted, and
Mrs. Gast once. My sweet father came down Gascoign-lane to meet us,
in very pood spirits and very good health. Next came dear daddy Crisp,
looking vastly well, and, as usual, high in glee and kindness at the
meeting. Then the affectionate Kitty, the good Mrs. Hamilton, the gentle
Miss Young, and the enthusiastic Mrs. Gast.
The instant dinner was over, to my utter surprise and consternation, I
was called into the room appropriated for Edward and his pictures,
and informed I was to sit to him for Mr. Crisp! Remonstrances were
unavailing, and declarations of aversion to the design were only
ridiculed; both daddies interfered, and, when I ran off, brought me back
between them, and compelled my obedience;--and from that time to this,
nothing has gone forward but picture-sitting.