He seemed desirous to know how I liked the gentlewomen below. I told
him, that although I did not think them very exceptionable; yet as I
wanted not, in my present situation, new acquaintance, I should not be
fond of cultivating theirs.
He urged me still farther on this head.
I could not say, I told him, that I greatly liked either of the young
gentlewomen, any more than their aunt: and that, were my situation ever
so happy, they had much too gay a turn for me.
He did not wonder, he said, to hear me say so. He knew not any of the
sex, who had been accustomed to show themselves at the town diversions
and amusements, that would appear tolerable to me. Silences and blushes,
Madam, are now no graces with our fine ladies in town. Hardened by
frequent public appearances, they would be as much ashamed to be found
guilty of these weaknesses, as men.
Do you defend these two gentlewomen, Sir, by reflections upon half the
sex? But you must second me, Mr. Lovelace, (and yet I am not fond of
being thought particular,) in my desire of breakfasting and supping (when
I do sup) by myself.
If I would have it so, to be sure it should be so. The people of the
house were not of consequence enough to be apologized to, in any point
where my pleasure was concerned. And if I should dislike them still more
on further knowledge of them, he hoped I would think of some other
lodgings.
He expressed a good deal of regret at leaving me, declaring, that it was
absolutely in obedience to my commands: but that he could not have
consented to go, while my brother's schemes were on foot, if I had not
done him the credit of my countenance in the report he had made that we
were married; which, he said, had bound all the family to his interest,
so that he could leave me with the greater security and satisfaction.
He hoped, he said, that on his return I would name his happy day; and the
rather, as I might be convinced, by my brother's projects, that no
reconciliation was to be expected.
I told him, that perhaps I might write one letter to my uncle Harlowe.
He once loved me. I should be easier when I had made one direct
application. I might possibly propose such terms, in relation to my
grandfather's estate, as might procure me their attention; and I hoped he
would be long enough absent to give me time to write to him, and receive
an answer from him.
That, he must beg my pardon, he could not promise. He would inform
himself of Singleton's and my brother's motions; and if on his return he
found no reason for apprehension, he would go directly for Berks, and
endeavour to bring up with him his cousin Charlotte, who, he hoped, would
induce me to give him an earlier day than at present I seemed to think
of.--I seemed to think of, my dear, very acquiescent, as I should
imagine!
I told him, that I should take that young lady's company for a great
favour.
I was the more pleased with this motion, as it came from himself, and
with no ill grace.
He earnestly pressed me to accept of a bank note: but I declined it. And
then he offered me his servant William for my attendant in his absence;
who, he said, might be dispatched to him, if any thing extraordinary fell
out. I consented to that.
He took his leave of me in the most respectful manner, only kissing my
hand. He left the bank note, unobserved by me, upon the table. You may
be sure, I shall give it him back at his return.