The female Quixote: or, the adventures of Arabella. In two volumes. ... [pt.2]

THE Female QUIXOTE. BOOK VII.

CHAP. I.

For the Shortness of which the Length of the next shall make some Amends.

SIR George, to gratify Arabella's Humour, had not presumed to come to the Castle for several Days; but, hearing that they were preparing to leave the Country, he wrote a short Billet to her; and in the Style of Romance, most humbly intreated her to grant him a Moment's Audience.

Arabella being informed by Lucy, to whom Sir George's Gentleman had addressed himself, that he had brought a Letter from his Master, she

ordered her to bring him to her Apartment, and as soon as he appeared,

How comes it, said she, that the Prince your Master, has had the Presumption to impor∣tune me again, after my absolute Commands to the contrary?

The Prince, my Master, Madam, said the Man, excessively surprised.

Ay! said Arabella, Are you not Sir George's 'Squire? And does he not trust you with his most secret Thoughts?

I belong to Sir George Bellmour, Madam, replied the Man, who did not understand what She meant: I have not the Honour to be a 'Squire.

No! interrupted Arabella; 'tis strange then, that he should have honoured you with his Com∣mission; Pray, what is it you come to request for him?

My Master, Madam, said he, ordered me to get this Letter delivered to your Ladyship, and to stay for your Commands.

You would persuade me, said she, sternly, being provoked that he did not deliver the Letter upon his Knees, as was the Custom in Romances, that you are not acquainted with the Purport of this audacious Billet, since you express so little Fear of my Displeasure; but know, presumptuous, that I am mortally offended with your Master, for his daring to suppose I would read this Proof at once of his Insolence and Infidelity; and was you worth my Resentment, I would haply make you suffer for your Want of Respect to me.

The poor Man, surprised and confounded at

her Anger, and puzzled extremely; to under∣stand what she meant, was opening his Mouth to say something, 'tis probable in his own De∣fence, when Arabella, preventing him,

I know what thou wouldst say, said she: Thou wouldst abuse my Patience by a false Detail of thy Master's Sighs, Tears, Excla∣mations, and Despair.

Indeed, Madam, I don't intend to say any such Thing, replied the Man.

No! repeated Arabella, a little disap∣pointed, Bear back his presumptuous Billet, which, I suppose, contains the melancholy Ac∣count; and tell him, He that could so soon forget the generous Sydimiris for Philonice, and could afterwards be false to that incomparable Beauty, is not a Person worthy to adore Arabella.

The Man, who could not tell what to make of this Message, and feared he should forget these two hard Names, humbly intreated her to be pleased to acquaint his Master, by a Line, with her Intentions. Arabella, supposing he meant to importune her still more, made a Sign with her Hand, very majestically, for him to be gone; but he, not able to compre∣hend her Meaning, stood still, with an Air of Perplexity, not daring to beg her to explain herself; supposing, she, by that Sign, required something of him.

Why dost thou not obey my Commands? said Arabella, finding he did not go.

I will, to be sure, Madam, replied he; wishing at the same time secretly, she would let him know what they were.

And yet, said she hastily, thou art disobey∣ing

me this Moment: Did I not bid you get out of my Presence, and to speak no more of your inconstant Master, whose Crimes have rendered him the Detestation of all generous Persons whatever?

Sir George's Messenger, extremely surprised at so harsh a Character of his Master, and the Rage with which the Lady seemed to be actu∣ated, made haste to get out of her Apartment; and, at his Return, informed his Master, very exactly, of the Reception he had met with, repeating all Lady Bella's Words; which, not∣withstanding the Blunders he made in the Names of Sydimiris and Philonice, Sir George under∣stood well enough; and found new Occasion of wondering at the Excess of Arabella's Extrava∣gance, who he never imagined would have ex∣plained herself in that Manner to his Servant.

Without endeavouring therefore to see Ara∣bella, he went to pay his Compliments to Sir Charles, Mr. Glanville, and Miss Glanville; to the last of which he said some soft things, that them her extremely regret his staying behind made in the Country.

CHAP. II.

Not so long as was first intended; but con∣tains, however, a surprising Adventure on the Road.

THE Day of their Departure being come, they set out in a Coach and Six, attended by several Servants on Horseback. The First

Day's Journey passed off, without any Acci∣dent worthy relating; but, towards the Close of the Second, they were alarmed by the Ap∣pearance of three Highwaymen, well mounted, at a small Distance.

One of the Servants, who had first spied them, immediately rode up to the Coach; and, for fear of alarming the Ladies, whispered Mr. Glanville in the Ear.

Sir Charles, who was sitting next his Son, and had heard it, cried out with too little Caution, How's this? Are we in any Danger of being at∣tacked, say you?

Mr. Glanville, without replying, jumped out of the Coach; at which Miss Glanville screamed out; and, lest her Father should fol∣low, whipped into her Brother's Sear, and held him fast by the Coat.

Arabella, being in a strange Consternation at all this, put her Head out of the Coach, to see what was the Matter; and, observing Three or Four Men of a genteel Appearance, on Horse-back, who seemed to halt, and gaze on them▪ without offering to advance;

Sir, said she to her Uncle, are they yonder Knights whom you suppose will attack us?

Ay, ay, said Sir Charles, they are Knights of the Road indeed: I suppose we shall have a Bout with them; for it will be scandalous to deliver, since we have the Odds of our Side, and are more than a Match for them.

Arabella, interpreting these Words in her own Way, looked out again; and, seeing the Robbers, who had by this time taken their Resolution, galloping towards them, her Cou∣sin

and the Servants ranging themselves of each Side of the Coach, as if to defend them,

Hold, hold, valiant Men, said she, as loud as she could speak, addressing herself to the Highwaymen; do not, by a mistaken Genero∣sity, hazard your Lives in a Combat, to which the Laws of Honour do not oblige you: We are not violently carried away, as you falsly suppose; we go willingly along with these Per∣sons, who are our Friends and Relations.

Hey-day! cried Sir Charles, starting at her with great Surprize; what's the Meaning of all this? Do you think these Fellows will mind your fine Speeches, Niece?

I hope they will, Sir, said she: Then, pulling her Cousin, shew yourself, for Heaven's Sake, Miss, pursued she, and second my Assurances, that we are not forced away: These generous Men come to fight for our Deliverance.

The Highwaymen, who were near enough to hear Arabella's Voice, though they could not distinguish her Words, gazed on her with great Surprize; and, finding they would be very well received, thought fit to abandon their En∣terprize, and galloped away as fast as they were able. Some of the Servants made a Motion to pursue them; but Mr. Glanville forbad it; and, entering again into the Coach, congratulated the Ladies upon the Escape they had.

Since these Men, said Arabella, did not come to deliver us, out of a mistaken Notion, that we were carried away by Force, it must ne∣cessarily follow, they had some bad Design; and I protest I know not who to suspect is the Au∣thor of it, unless the Person you vanquished,

said she to Mr. Glanville, the other Day in a single Combat; for the disguised Edward, you assured me, was dead: But perhaps, continued she, it was some Lover of Miss Glanville's, who designed to make an Attempt to carry her away: Methinks he was too slenderly attended for such an hazardous Undertaking.

I'll assure you Madam, said Miss Glanville, I have no Lovers among Highwaymen.

Highwaymen! repeated Arabella.

Why, ay, to be sure, Madam, rejoined Sir Charles: What do you take them for?

For Persons of Quality, Sir, resumed Ara∣bella; and though they came questionless, either upon a good or bad Design, yet it cannot be doubted, but that their Birth is illustrious; otherwise they would never pretend either to fight in our Defence, or to carry us away.

I vow, Niece, said Sir Charles, I can't possi∣bly understand you.

My Cousin, Sir, interrupted Mr. Glanville, has been mistaken in these Persons; and has not yet, possibly, believed them to be Highwaymen, who came to rob us.

There is no Question, Sir, said Arabella, smiling, that if they did not come to defend us, they came to rob you: But it is hard to guess, which of us it was of whom they de∣signed to deprive you; for it may very possibly be for my Cousin's fake, as well as mine, that this Enterprize was undertaken.

Pardon me, Madam, said Mr. Glanville, who was willing to prevent his Father from an∣swering her Absurdities; these Men had no other Design, than to rob us of our Money.

How! said Arabella: Were these Cavaliers▪ who appeared to be in so handsome a Garb, that I took them for Persons of prime Quality, were they Robbers? I have been strangely mis∣taken, it seems: However, I apprehend there is no Certainty, that your Suspicions are true; and it may still be as I say, that they either came to rescue or carry us away.

Mr. Glanville, to avoid a longer Dispute, changed the Discourse; having observed with Confusion, that Sir Charles, and his Sister, seem∣ed to look upon his beloved Cousin as one that was out of her Senss.

CHAP. III.

Which concludes with an authentic Piece of History.

ARABELLA, during the rest of this Jour∣ney, was so wholly taken up in contem∣plating upon the last Adventure, that she mixed but little in the Conversation. Upon their drawing near Bath, the Situation of that City afforded her the Means of making a Com∣parison between the Valley in which it was placed (with the Amphitheatrical View of the Hills around it) and the Valley of Tempe.

'Twas in such a Place as this, said she, pur∣suing her Comparison, that the fair Andronice delivered the valiant Hortensius: And really I could wish, our Entrance into that City might

be preceded by an Act of equal Humanity with that of that fair Princess.

For the Gratification of that Wish, Madam, sid Mr. Glanville, it is necessary some Person should meet with a Misfortune, out of which you might be able to relieve him; but I suppose the Benevolence of your Disposition may be equally satisfied with not finding any Occasion, as of exercising it, when it is found.

Though it be not my Fortune to meet with those Occasions, replied Arabella, there is no Reason to doubt but others do, who possibly have less Inclination to afford their Assistance than myself: And it is possible, if any other than the Princess of Messina had happened to pass by, when Hortensius was in the Hands of the Thessalians, he would not have been res∣cued from the ignominious Death he was de∣stined to, merely for killing a Stork.

How! interrupted Sir Charles, put a Man to Death for killing a Stork! Ridiculous! Pray, in what Part of the World did that happen? Among the Indians of America, I suppose.

No, Sir, said Arabella, in Thessaly; the fairest Part in all Macedonia, famous for the beautiful Valley of Tempe, which excited the Curiosity of all Travellers whatever.

No, not all, Madam, returned Sir Charles▪ for I am acquainted with several Travellers, who never saw it, nor even mentioned it; and if it is so famous as you say, I am surprised I never heard of it before.

I don't know, said Arabélla, what those Tra∣vellers thought worthy of their Notice; but I am certain, that if any Chance should conduct

me into Macedonia, I would not leave it till I saw the Valley of Tempe, so celebrated by all the Poets and Historians.

Dear Cousin, cried Glanville, who could hardly forbear smiling, what Chance, in the Name of Wonder, should take you into Ma∣cedonia, at so great a Distance from your own Country?

And so, said Sir Charles, this famous Valley of Tempe is in Turky. Why you must be very fond of travelling, indeed, Lady Bella, if you would go into the Great Mogul's Country, where the People are all Pagans, they say, and worship the Devil.

The Country my Cousin speaks of, said Mr. Glanville, is in the Grand Signor's Domi∣nions: The Great Mogul, you know, Sir—

Well, interrupted Sir Charles, the Great Mogul, or the Grand Signor, I know not what you call him: But I hope my Niece does not propose to go thither.

Not unless I am forcibly carried thither, said Arabella; but I do determine, if that Misfor∣tune should ever happen to me, that I would, if possible, visit the Vale of Tempe, which is in that Part of Greece they call Macedonia.

Then I am persuaded, replied Sir Charles, you'll never see that famous Valley you talk of; for it is not very likely you should be forcibly carried away into Turky.

And why do you think it unlikely, that I should be carried thither? interrupted Arabella. Do not the same Things happen now, that did formerly? And is any thing more common, then Ladies being carried, by their Ravishers,

into Countries far distant from their own? May not the same Accidents happen to me, that have happened to so many illustrious Ladies before me? And may I not be carried into Macedonia by a Similitude of Destiny with that of a great many beautiful Princesses, who, though born in the most distant Quarters of the World, chanced to meet at one time in the City of Alexandria, and related their miraculous Adventures to each other?

And it was for that very Purpose they met, Madam, said Mr. Glanville, smiling.

Why, truly, said Arabella, it happened very luckily for each of them, that they were brought into a Place where they found so many illustrious Companions in Misfortune, to whom they might freely communicate their Adven∣tures, which otherwise might, haply, have been concealed, or, at least, have been imperfectly delivered down to us: However, added she, smiling, if I am carried into Macedonia, and by that means have an Opportunity of visit∣ing the famous Vale of Tempe, I shall take care not to draw the Resentment of the Thessalians upon me, by an Indiscretion like that of Hor∣tensius.

For be pleased to know, Sir, said she, ad∣dressing herself to her Uncle, that his killing a Stork, however inconsiderable a Matter it may appear to us, was yet looked upon as a Crime of a very atrocious Nature among the Thes∣salians; for they have a Law, which forbids, upon Pain of Death, the killing of Storks; the Reason for which is, that Thessaly being sub∣ject to be infested with a prodigious Multitude

of Serpents, which are a delightful Food to these Sorts of Fowls, they look upon them as sacred Birds, sent by the Gods to deliver them from these Serpents and Vipers: And though Hortensius, being a Stranger, was pardoned through the Intercession of the Princess Andro∣nice, they made him promise to send another Stork into Thessaly, to the end that he might be reputed innocent.

CHAP. IV.

In which one of our Heroine's Whims is justified, by some others full as whim∣sical.

THIS Piece of History, with Sir Charles's Remarks upon it, brought them into Bath. Their Lodgings being provided before∣hand, the Ladies retired to their different Cham∣bers, to repose themselves after the Fatigue of their Journey, and did not meet again till Supper was on Table; when Miss Glan∣ville, who had eagerly enquired what Company was then in the Place, and heard there were a great many Persons of Fashion just arrived, prest Arabella to go to the Pump-Room the next Morning, assuring her she would find a very agreeable Amusement.

Arabella accordingly consented to accompany her; and, being told the Ladies went in an Un∣dress of a Morning, she accommodated herself to the Custom, and went in a negligent Dress; but instead of a Capuchin, she were something

like a Veil, of black Gauze, which covered almost all her Face, and Part of her Waist, and gave her a very singular Appearance.

Miss Glanville was too envious of her Cou∣sin's Superiority in point of Beauty, to inform her of any Oddity in her Dress, which she thought might expose her to the Ridicule of those that saw her; and Mr. Glanville was too little a Critic in Ladies Apparel, to be sensible that Arabella was not in the Fashion; and since every thing she wore became her extremely, he could not choose but think she drest ad∣mirably well: He handed her therefore, with a great deal of Satisfaction, into the Pump-Room, which happened to be greatly crouded that Morning.

The Attention of most Part of the Compa∣ny was immediately engaged by the Appear∣ance Lady Bella made. Strangers are here most strictly criticized, and every new Object affords a delicious Feast of Raillery and Scandal.

The Ladies, alarmed at the Singularity of her Dress, crouded together in Parties; and the Words, Who can she be? Strange Crea∣ture! Ridiculous! and other Exclamations of the same Kind, were whispered very intelli∣gibly.

The Men were struck with her Figure, veiled as she was: Her fine Stature, the beauti∣ful Turn of her Person, the Grace and Ele∣gance of her Motion, attracted all their No∣tice: The Phaenomena of the Veil, however, gave them great Disturbance. So lovely a Per∣son seemed to promise the Owner had a Face not unworthy of it; but that was totally hid

from their View: For Arabella, at her En∣trance into the Room, had pulled the Gauze quite over her Face, following therein the Cus∣tom of the Ladies in Clelia, and the Grand Cy∣rus, who, in mixed Companies, always hid their Faces with great Care.

The Wits, and Pretty-Fellows, railed at the envious Covering, and compared her to the Sun obscured by a Cloud; while the Beaux dem'd the horrid Innovation, and expressed a Fear, lest it should grow into a Fashion.

Some of the wiser Sort took her for a Fo∣reigner; others, of still more Sagacity, supposed her a Scots Lady, covered with her Plaid; and a third Sort, infinitely wiser than either, con∣cluded she was a Spanish Nun, that had escaped from a Convent, and had not yet quitted her Veil.

Arabella, ignorant of the Diversity of Opi∣nions, to which her Appearance gave Rise, was taken up in discoursing with Mr. Glanville upon the medicinal Virtue of the Springs, the Oeconomy of the Baths, the Nature of the Diversions, and such other Topics, as the Objects around them furnished her with.

In the mean time, Miss Glanville was got amidst a Croud of her Acquaintance, who had hardly paid the Civilities of a first Meeting, be∣fore they eagerly inquired, who that Lady she brought with her was.

Miss Glanville informed them, that she was her Cousin, and Daughter to the deceased Mar∣quis of—adding with a Sneer, That she had been brought up in the Country; knew nothing of the World; and had some very peculiar No∣tions,

as you may see, said she, by that odd kind of Covering she wears.

Her Name and Quality were presently whis∣pered all over the Room: The Men, hearing she was a great Heiress, found greater Beauties to admire in her Person: The Ladies, aw'd by the Sanction of Quality, dropt their Ridi∣cule on her Dress, and began to quote Exam∣ples of Whims full as inexcusable.

One remembred, that Lady J—T— al∣always wore her Ruffles reversed; that the Countess of—went to Court in a Far∣thingale; that the Duchess of—sat astride upon a Horse; and a certain Lady of great Fortune, and nearly allied to Quality, because she was not dignified with a Title, invented a new one for herself; and directed her Servants to say in speaking to her, Your Honouress, which afterwards became a Custom among all her Ac∣quaintance; who mortally offended her, if they omitted that Instance of Respect.

CHAP. V.

Containing some historical Anecdotes, the Truth of which may possibly be doubted, as they are not to be found in any of the Historians.

AFTER a short Stay in the Room, Ara∣bella expressing a Desire to return home, Mr. Glanville conducted her out. Two Gentle∣men of his Acquaintance attending Miss Glan∣ville,

Sir, Charles detained them to Breakfast; by which means they had an Opportunity of satisfying their Curiosity; and beheld Arabella, divested of that Veil, which had, as they said; and 'tis probable they said no more than they thought, concealed one of the finest Faces in the World.

Miss Glanville had the Mortification to see both the Gentlemen so charmed with the Sight of her Cousin's Face, that for a long time she sat wholly neglected; but the Seriousness of her Behaviour, giving some little Disgust to the youngest of them, who was what the Ladies call a Pretty-Fellow, a dear Creature, and the most diverting Man in the World; he applied himself wholly to Miss Glanville, and soon en∣gaged her in a particular Conversation.

Mr. Selvin, so was the other Gentleman called, was of a much graver Cast: He affected to be thought deep-read in History, and never failed to take all Opportunities of displaying his Knowlege of Antiquity, which was indeed but very superficial; but having some few Anec∣dotes by Heart, which he would take Occa∣tion to introduce as often as he could, he passed among many Persons for one, who, by Appli∣cation and Study, had acquired an universal Knowlege of antient History.

Speaking of any particular Circumstance, he would fix the Time, by computing the Year with the Number of the Olympiads.

It happened, he would say, in the 141st Olympiad.

Such an amazing Exactness, had a suitable

Effect on his Audience, and always procured him a great Degree of Attention.

This Gentleman hitherto had no Opportu∣nity of displaying his Knowledge of History, the Discourse having wholly turned upon News, and other Trifles; when Arabella, after some more Inquiries concerning the Place, remark∣ed, that there was a very great Difference be∣tween the medicinal Waters at Bath, and the fine Springs at the Foot of the Mountain Ther∣mopylae in Greece, as well in their Qualities, as manner of using them; and I am of Opinion, added she, that Bath, famous as it is for re∣storing Health, is less frequented by infirm Persons, than the famous Springs of Thermopylae were by the Beauties of Greece, to whom those Waters have the Reputation of giving new Lustre.

Mr. Selvin, who, with all his Reading, had never met with any Account of these celebrated Grecian Springs, was extremely disconcerted at not being able to continue a Conversation, which the Silence of the rest of the Company made him imagine, was directed wholly to him.

The Shame he conceived at seeing himself posed by a Girl, in a Matter which so imme∣diately belonged to him, made him resolve to draw himself out of this Dilemma at any Rate; aud, though he was far from being convinced, that there were no such Springs at Thermopylae as Arabella mentioned; yet he resolutely main∣tained, that she must be mistaken in their Situa∣tion; for, to his certain Knowlege, there were

no medicinal Waters at the Foot of that Moun∣tain.

Arabella, who could not endure to be con∣tradicted in what she took to be so incontest∣able a Fact, reddened with Vexation at his un∣expected Denial.

It should seem, said she, by your Discourse, that you are unacquainted with many material Passages, that passed among very illustrious Persons there; and if you knew any thing of Pisistratus the Athenian, you would know, that an Adventure he had at those Baths, laid the Foundation of all those great Designs, which he afterwards effected, to the total Subversion of the Athenian Government.

Mr. Selvin, surprised that this Piece of Hi∣story had likewise escaped his Observation, re∣solved, however, not to give up his Point.

I think, Madam, replied he, with great Self-sufficiency, that I am pretty well acquaint∣ed with every thing which relates to the Af∣fairs of the Athenian Commonwealth; and know by what Steps Pisistratus advanced himself to the Sovereignty. It was a great Stroke of Po∣licy in him, said he, turning to Mr. Glanville, indeed, to wound himself, in order to get a Guard assigned him.

You are mistaken, Sir, said Arabella, if you believe, there was any Truth in the Report of his having wounded himself: It was done, either by his Rival Lycurgus or Theocrites; who be∣lieving him still to be in Love with the fair Cerinthe, whom he courted, took that Way to get rid of him: Neither is it true, that Am∣bition alone inspired Pisistratus with a Design of

enslaving his Country: Those Authors who say so, must know little of the Springs and Motives of his Conduct. It was neither Ambition nor Revenge, that made him act as he did; it was the violent Affection he conceived for the beau∣tiful Chorante, whom he first saw at the famous Baths of Thermopylae, which put him upon those Designs; for, seeing that Lycurgus, who was not his Rival in Ambition, but Love, would certainly become the Possessor of Chorante, un∣less he made himself Tyrant of Athens, he had recourse to that violent Method, in order to preserve her for himself.

I protest, Madam, said Mr. Selvin, casting down his Eyes in great Confusion at her su∣perior Knowlege in History, these Particu∣lars have all escaped my Notice; and this is the first time I ever understood, that Pisistratus was violently in Love; and that it was not Ambi∣tion, which made him aspire to Sovereignty.

I do not remember any Mention of this in Plutarch, continued he, rubbing his Forehead, or any of the Authors who have treated on the Affairs of Greece.

Very likely, Sir, replied Arabella; but you will see the whole Story of Pisistratus's Love for Chorante, with the Effects it produced, re∣lated at large in Scudery.

Scudery, Madam! said the sage Mr. Selvin, I never read that Historian.

No, Sir! replied Arabella, then your Read∣ing has been very confined.

I know, Madam, said he, that Herodotus, Thucydides, and Plutarch, have indeed quoted him frequently.

I am surprised, Sir, said Mr. Glanville, who was excessively diverted at this Discovery of his great Ignorance and Affectation, that you have not read that famous Historian; especially, as the Writers you have mentioned quote him so often.

Why, to tell you the Truth, Sir, said he; though he was a Roman; yet it is objected to him, that he wrote but indifferent Latin; with no Purity or Elegance; and—

You are quite mistaken, Sir, interrupted Arabella; the great Scudery was a Frenchman; and both his Clelia and Artamenes were written in French.

A Frenchman was he? said Mr. Selvin, with a lofty Air: Oh! then, 'tis not surprising, that I have not read him: I read no Authors, but the Antients, Madam, added he, with a Look of Self-applause; I cannot relish the Mo∣derns at all: I have no Taste for their Way of Writing.

But Scudery must needs be more ancient than Thucydides, and the rest of those Greek Historians you mentioned, said Mr. Glanville: How else could they quote him?

Mr. Selvin was here so utterly at a Loss, that he could not conceal his Confusion: He held down his Head, and continued silent; while the Beau, who had listened to the latter Part of their Discourse; exerted his supposed Talent of Raillery against the unhappy Admirer of the antient Authors; and increased his Confusion by a thousand Sarcasms, which gave more Di∣version to himself, than any body else.

CHAP. VI.

Which contains some excellent Rules for Raillery.

MR. Glanville, who had too much Polite∣ness and Good nature to insist too long upon the Ridicule in the Character of his Ac∣quaintance, changed the Discourse: And Ara∣bella, who had observed, with some Concern, the ill-judged Raillery of the young Beau, took Occasion to decry that Species of Wit; and gave it as her Opinion, that it was very dan∣gerous and unpleasing.

For, truly, said she, it is almost impossible to use it without being hated or feared: and whoever gets a Habit of it, is in Danger of wronging all the Laws of Friendship and Hu∣manity.

Certainly, pursued she, looking at the Beau, it is extremely unjust to railly one's Friends, and particular Acquaintance: First, choose them well, and be as nice as you please in the Choice; but when you have chosen them, by no means play upon them: 'Tis cruel and malicious, to di∣vert one's self at the Expence of one's Friend.

However, Madam, said Mr. Glanville, who was charmed to hear her talk so rationally, you may give People Leave to railly their Ene∣mies.

Truly, resumed Arabella, I cannot allow that, any more than upon Friends; for Raillery is the poorest kind of Revenge that can be taken:

Methinks, it is mean to railly Persons who have a small Share of Merit; since, haply, their Defects were born with them, and not of their own acquiring; and it is great Injustice to des∣cant upon one slight Fault in Men of Parts, to the Prejudice of a thousand good Qualities.

For aught I see, Madam, said the Beau, you will not allow one to railly any body.

I am of Opinion, Sir, said Arabella, that there are very few proper Objects for Raillery; and still fewer, who can railly well: The Ta∣lent of Raillery ought to be born with a Per∣son; no Art can infuse it; and those who en∣deavour to railly in spite of Nature, will be so far from diverting others, that they will become the Objects of Ridicule themselves.

Many other pleasing Qualities of Wit may be acquired by Pains and Study, but Raillery must be the Gift of Nature: It is not enough to have many lively and agreeable Thoughts; but there must be such an Expression, as must convey their full Force and Meaning; the Air the Aspect, the Tone of the Voice, and every Part in general, must contribute to its Perfection.

There ought also to be a great Distance be∣tween Raillery and Satire, so that one may ne∣ver be mistaken for the other: Raillery ought indeed to surprise, and sensibly touch, those to whom it is directed; but I would not have the Wounds it makes, either deep or lasting: Let those who feel it, be hurt like Persons, who, gathering Roses, are pricked by the Thorns, and find a sweet Smoll to make amends.

I would have Raillery raise the Fancy, and quicken the Imagination, the Fire of its Wit should only enable us to trace its Original, and shine as the Stars do, but not burn. Yet, after all, I cannot greatly approve of Raillery, or cease to think it dangerous; and, to pursue my Comparison, said she, with an inchanting Smile, Persons who possess the true Talent of Raillery, are like Comets; they are seldom seen, and are at once admir'd and fear'd.

I protest, Lady Bella, said Sir Charles, who had listen'd to her with many Signs of Admi∣ration, you speak like an Orator.

One would not imagine, interrupted Mr. Glanville, who saw Arabella in some Confusion at the coarse Praise her Uncle gave her, that my Cousin could speak so accurately of a Qua∣lity she never practises: And 'tis easy to judge by what she has said, that no body can railly finer than herself, if she pleases.

Mr. Selvin, tho' he bore her a Grudge for knowing more History than he did, yet assur'd her, that she had given the best Rules imagin∣able for raillying well. But the Beau, whom she had silenc'd by her Reproof, was extremely angry; and, supposing it would mortify her to see him pay Court to her Cousin, he redoubled his Assiduities to Miss Glanville, who was highly delighted at seeing Arabella less taken Notice of by this gay Gentleman, than herself.

CHAP. VII.

In which the Author condescends to be very minute in the Description of our Heroin's Dress.

THE Indifference of Mr. Tinsel, convin∣cing Miss Glanville, that Arabella was less to be dreaded than she imagin'd, she had no Reluctance at seeing her prepare for her publick Appearance the next Ball Night.

Having consulted her Fancy in a rich Silver Stuff, she had bought for that Purpose, a Person was sent for to make it; and Arabella, who follow'd no Fashion but her own Taste, which was form'd on the Manners of the Heroines, order'd the Woman to make her a Robe after the same Model as the Princess Julia's.

The Mantua-maker, who thought it might do her great Prejudice with her new Customer, to acknowledge she knew nothing of the Prin∣cess Julia, or the Fashion of her Gown, replied at Random, and with great Pertness,

That, that Taste was quite out; and, she would advise her Ladyship to have her Cloaths made in the present Mode, which was far more becoming.

You can never persuade me, said Arabella, that any Fashion can be more becoming than that of the Princess Julia's, who was the most gallant Princess upon Earth, and knew better than any other, how to set off her Charms. It may indeed be a little obselete now, pursued

she, for the Fashion could not but alter a little in the Compass of near two thousand Years.

Two thousand Years! Madam, said the Wo∣man, in a great Surprize; Lord help us Trades-people, if they did not alter a thousand Times in as many Days! I thought your Ladyship was speaking of the last Month's Taste; which, as I said before, is quite out now.

Well, replied Arabella, let the present Mode be what it will, I insist upon having my Cloaths made after the Pattern of the beautiful Daugh∣ter of Augustus; being convinced, that none other can be half so becoming.

What Fashion was that, pray, Madam, said the Woman? I never saw it.

How, replied Arabella, Have you already for∣got the Fashion of the Princess Julia's Robe, which you said was wore but last Month? Or, are you ignorant that the Princess Julia, and the Daughter of Augustus, is the same Person?

I protest, Madam, said the Woman, ex∣tremely confus'd, I had forgot that, till you called it to my Mind.

Well, said Arabella, make me a Robe in the same Taste.

The Mantua-maker was now wholly at a Loss in what Manner to behave; for, being conscious that she knew nothing of the Princess Julia's Fashion, she could not undertake to make it without Directions; and she was afraid of discovering her Ignorance by asking for any; so that her Silence and Embarrassment persua∣ding Arabella she knew nothing of the Matter, she dismist her with a small Present, for the Trouble she had given her, and had Recourse

to her usual Expedient, which was, to make one of her Women, who understood a little of the Mantua-making Business, make a Robe for her, after her own Directions.

Miss Glanville, who imagin'd she had sent for Work-women, in order to have Cloaths made in the modern Taste, was surpriz'd at her Entrance into her Chamber, to see her dressing for the Ball, in a Habit singular to the last Degree.

She wore no Hoop, and the Blue and Silver Stuff of her Robe, was only kept by its own Richness, from hanging close about her. It was quite open round her Breast, which was shaded with a rich Border of Lace; and clasp∣ing close to her Waist, by small Knots of Dia∣monds, descended in a sweeping Train on the Ground.

The Sleeves were short, wide, and slash'd, fastned in different Places with Diamonds, and her Arms were partly hid by half a Dozen Falls of Ruffles. Her Hair, which fell in very easy Ringlets on her Neck, was plac'd with great Care and Exactness round her lovely Face; and the Jewels and Ribbons, which were all her Head-dress, dispos'd to the greatest Advantage.

Upon the whole, nothing could be more sin∣gularly becoming than her Dress; or set off with greater Advantage the striking Beauties of her Person.

Miss Glanville, tho' she was not displeas'd to see her persist in her Singularity of Dress; yet could not behold her look so lovely in it, with∣out feeling a secret Uneasiness; but consoling herself with the Hopes of the Ridicule she

would occasion, she assum'd a chearful Air, approv'd her Taste in the Choice of her Co∣lours, and went with her at the usual Hour, to the Rooms, attended by Mr. Glanville, Mr. Selvin, and the young Beau we have for∣merly mention'd.

The Surprize Arabella's unusual Appearance gave to the whole Company, was very visible to every one but herself.

The Moment she enter'd the Room, every one whisper'd the Person next to them; and for some Moments, nothing was heard but the Words, the Princess Julia; which was eccho'd at every Corner, and at last attracted her Ob∣servation.

Mr. Glanville, and the rest of the Company with her, were in some Confusion at the uni∣versal Exclamation, which they imagin'd was occasion'd by the Singularity of her Habit; tho' they could not conceive, why they gave her that Title. Had they known the Adven∣ture of the Mantua-maker, it would doubtless have easily occurr'd to them; for the Woman had no sooner left Arabella, than she related the Conference she had with a Lady newly ar∣riv'd, who had requir'd her to make a Robe in the Manner of the Princess Julia's; and dis∣miss'd her, because she did not understand the Fashions that prevail'd two thousand Years ago.

This Story was quickly dispers'd, and for its Novelty, afforded a great deal of Diversion; every one long'd to see a Fashion of such An∣tiquity; and expected the Appearance of the Princess Julia with great Impatience.

It is not to be doubted but much Mirth was treasur'd up for her Appearance; and the occa∣sional Humourist had already prepared his ac∣custom'd Jest, when the Sight of the devoted fair One repell'd his Vivacity, and the design'd Ridicule of the whole Assembly.

Scarce had the first tumultous Whisper escap'd the Lips of each Individual, when they found themselves aw'd to Respect by that irresistable Charm in the Person of Arabella, which com∣manded Reverence and Love from all who be∣held her.

Her noble Air, the native Dignity in her Looks, the inexpressible Grace which accom∣pany'd all her Motions, and the consummate Loveliness of her Form, drew the Admiration of the whole Assembly.

A respectful Silence succeeded, and the Asto∣nishment her Beauty occasion'd, left them no Room to descant on the Absurdity of her Dress.

Miss Glanville, who felt a malicious Joy at the Sneers she expected would be cast on her Cousin, was greatly disappointed at the Defer∣ence which seem'd to be paid her; and to vent some Part of her Spleen, took occasion to men∣tion her Surprize, at the Behaviour of the Company on their Entrance; wondering what they could mean by whispering the Princess Julia to one another.

I assure you, said Arabella, smiling, I am not less surpriz'd than you at it; and since they di∣rected their Looks to me at the same Time, I fancy they either took me for some Princess of the Name of Julia, who is expected here to-Night,

or else flatter me with some Resem∣blance to the beautiful Daughter of Augustus.

The Comparison, Madam, said Mr. Selvin, who took all Occasions to shew his Reading, is too injurious to you, for I am of Opinion you as much excel that licentious Lady in the Beau∣ties of your Person, as you do in the Qualities of your Mind.

I never heard Licentiousness imputed to the Daughter of Augustus Caesar, said Arabella; and the most her Enemies can say of her, is, that she loved Admiration, and would permit herself to be beloved, and to be told so, with∣out shewing any Signs of Displeasure.

Bless me, Madam, interrupted Mr. Selvin, how strangely do you mistake the Character of Julia: Tho' the Daughter of an Emperor, she was, pardon the Expression, the most aban∣don'd Prostitute in Rome; many of her Intrigues are recorded in History; but to mention only one, Was not her infamous Commerce with Ovid, the Cause of his Banishment?

CHAP. VIII.

Some Reflexions very fit, and others very unfit for an Assembly-Room.

YOU speak in strange Terms, replied Ara∣bella, blushing, of a Princess, who if she was not the most reserv'd and severe Person in the World, was yet nevertheless, absolutely chaste.

I know there were People who represented her Partiality for Ovid in a very unfavourable Light; but that ingenious Poet, when he re∣lated his History to the great Agrippa, told him in Confidence all that had pass'd between him and the Princess Julia, than which nothing could be more innocent tho' a little indiscreet. For, 'tis certain that she permitted him to love her, and did not condemn him to any rigorous Punishment for daring to tell her so; yet, for all this, as I said before, tho' she was not alto∣gether so austere as she ought to have been, yet she was nevertheless a most virtuous Princess.

Mr. Selvin, not daring to contradict a Lady whose extensive Reading had furnish'd her with Anecdotes unknown almost to any Body else, by his Silence confess'd her Superiority. But Mr. Glanville, who knew all these Anecdotes were drawn from Romances, which he found contradicted the known Facts in History, and assign'd the most ridiculous Causes for Things of the greatest Importance; could not help smiling at the Facility with which Mr. Selvin gave into those idle Absurdities. For notwith∣standing his Affectation of great Reading, his superficial Knowledge of History made it ex∣tremely easy to deceive him; and as it was his Custom to mark in his Pocket-Book all the Scraps of History he heard introduced into Con∣versation, and retail them again in other Com∣pany; he did not doubt but he would make a Figure with the curious Circumstances Arabella had furnish'd him with.

Arabella observing Mr. Tinsel by his familiar Bows, significant Smiles, and easy Salutations,

was acquainted with the greatest Part of the Assembly, told him, that she did not doubt but he knew the Adventures of many Persons whom they were viewing; and that he would do her a Pleasure, if he would relate some of them.

Mr. Tinsel was charm'd with a Request which afforded him an Opportunity of gratifying a fa∣vourite Inclination, and seating himself near her immediately, was beginning to obey her Injunctions, when she gracefully intreated him to stay a Moment; and calling to Mr. Glanville and his Sister, who were talking to Mr. Selvin, ask'd them if they chose to partake of a more rational Amusement than Dancing, and listen to the Adventures of some illustrious Persons, which Mr. Tinsel had promis'd to relate.

I assure you, Madam, said Mr. Glanville, smiling, you will find that a less innocent Amusement than Dancing.

Why so, Sir, replied Arabella, since it is not an indiscreet Curiosity which prompts me to a Desire of hearing the Histories Mr. Tinsel has promis'd to entertain me with; but rather a Hope of hearing something which may at once improve and delight me; something which may excite my Admiration, engage my Esteem, or influence my Practice.

'Twas doubtless, with such Motives as these, that we find Princesses and Ladies of the most illustrious Rank, in Clelia and the Grand Cyrus, listning to the Adventures of Persons, in whom they were probably as little interested, as we are in these around us. Kings, Princes, and Commanders of Armies, thought it was no Waste of their Time, in the midst of the

Hurry and Clamour of a Camp, to listen many Hours to the Relation of one single History, and not fill'd with any extraordinary Events; but haply a simple Recital of common Occur∣rences: The great Cyrus, while he was busy in reducing all Asia to his Yoke, heard never∣theless, the Histories of all the considerable Per∣sons in the Camp, besides those of Strangers, and even his Enemies. If there was therefore any thing either criminal or mean, in hearing the Adventures of others, do you imagine so many great and illustrious Persons would have given in to such an Amusement?

After this Arabella turn'd gravely about to Mr. Tinsel, and told him, he was at Liberty to begin his Recital.

The Beau, a little disconcerted by the So∣lemnity with which she requested his Informa∣tion, knew not how to begin with the Forma∣lity that he saw was required of him; and therefore fat silent for a few Moments; which Arabella suppos'd was to recall to his Memory all the Passages he propos'd to relate.

His Perplexity would probably have increas'd instead of lessening by the profound Silence which she observed, had not Miss Glanville seated herself with a sprightly Air on the other Side of him, and directing his Eyes to a tall handsome Woman that had just enter'd, ask'd him pleasantly, to tell her History if he knew it.

Mr. Tinsel, brought into his usual Track by this Question, answer'd smiling, That the Hi∣story of that Lady was yet a Secret, or known but to very few; but my Intelligence, added

he, is generally the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and may always be depended on.

Perhaps, said 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Lady is one of your Acquaintances, 〈…〉〈…〉 you with the Re∣cital of her 〈…〉〈…〉 from her own Mouth.

No, really, Madam, answer'd Mr. Tinsel, surpriz'd at the great Simplicity of Arabella, for so he understood it; the Lady, I believe, is not so communicative: And to say the Truth, I should not chuse to hear her Adventures from herself, since she certainly would suppress the most material Circumstances.

In a Word, said he, lowering his Voice, That Lady was for many Years the Mistress of a young military Nobleman, whom she was so complaisant to follow in all his Campaigns, Marches, Sieges, and every Inconveniency of War: He married her in Gibraltar, from whence he is lately arriv'd, and introduc'd his new Lady to his noble Brother, by whom she was not unfavourably receiv'd. 'Tis worth remarking, that this same haughty Peer thought sit to resent with implacable Obstinacy, the Marriage of another of his Brothers, with the Widow of a brave Officer, of considerable Rank in the Army. 'Tis true, she was several Years older than the young Lord, and had no Fortune; but the Duke assign'd other Reasons for his Displeasure: He complain'd loudly, that his Brother had dishonour'd the Nobility of his Birth, by this Alliance, and continued his Re∣sentment till the Death of the young Hero, who gave many remarkable Proofs of his Courage and Fortitude upon several Occasions, and died gloriously before the Walls of Carthagena;

leaving his disconsolate Lady a Widow a se∣cond Time, with the Acquisition of a Title indeed, but a very small Addition to her For∣tune.

Observe that gay, splendid Lady, I beseech you, Madam, pursued he, turning to Arabella; how affectedly she looks and talks, and throws her Eyes around the Room, with a haughty Self-sufficiency in her Aspect, and insolent Con∣tempt for every Thing but herself. Her Ha∣bit, her Speech, her Motions, are all French; nothing in England is able to please her; the People so dull, so aukwardly polite, the Man∣ners so gross; no Delicacy, no Elegance, no Magnificence in their Persons, Houses, or Di∣versions; every Thing is so distasteful, there is no living in such a Place. One may crawl about, indeed, she says, and make a shift to breathe in the odious Country, but one cannot be said to live; and with all the Requisites to render Life delightful, here, one can only suffer, not enjoy it.

Would one not imagine, pursued he, this fine Lady was a Person of very exalted Rank, who has the Sanction of Birth, Riches, and Grandeur for her extraordinary Pride; and yet she is no other than the Daughter of an Inn-Keeper at Spa, and had the exalted Post assign'd her of attending new Lodgers to their Apart∣ments, acquainting them with all the Conve∣niences of the Place, answering an humble Question or two concerning what Company was in the Town, what Scandal was stirring, and the like.

One of our great Sea Commanders going thither for his Health, happen'd to lodge at this Inn; and was so struck with her Charms, that he marry'd her in a few Weeks, and soon after brought her to England.

Such was the Origin of this fantastick Lady; whose insupportable Pride and ridiculous Af∣fectation, draws Contempt and Aversion where∣she appears.

Did I not tell you, Madam, interrupted Mr. Glanville, that the Amusement you had chose was not so innocent as Dancing? What a deal of Scandal has Mr. Tinsel utter'd in the Compass of a few Minutes?

I assure you, replied Arabella, I know not what to make of the Histories he has been re∣lating. I think they do not deserve that Name, and are rather detatched Pieces of Satire on particular Persons, than a serious Relation of Facts. I confess my Expectations from this Gentleman have not been answer'd.

I think, however, Madam, said Mr. Glan∣ville, we may allow that there is a negative Merit in the Relations Mr. Tinsel has made; for, if he has not shewn us any Thing to ap∣prove, he has at least shewn us what to condemn.

The Ugliness of Vice, reply'd Arabella, ought only to be represented to the Vicious; to whom Satire, like a magnifying Glass, may aggravate every Defect, in order to make its Deformity appear more hideous; but since its End is only to reprove and amend, it should never be address'd to any but those who come within its Correction, and may be the better for it: A virtuous Mind need not be shewn

the Deformity of Vice, to make it be hated and avoided; the more pure and uncorrupted our Ideas are, the less shall we be insluenc'd by Ex∣ample. A natural Propensity to Virtue or Vice often determines the Choice: 'Tis suffi∣cient therefore to shew a good Mind what it ought to pursue, though a bad one must be told what to avoid. In a Word, one ought to be always incited, the other always restrain'd.

I vow, Lady Bella, said Miss Glanville, you'd make one think one came here to hear a Sermon; you are so very grave, and talk upon such high-flown Subjects. What Harm was there in what Mr. Tinsel was telling us? It would be hard indeed, if one might not divert one's self with other Peoples Faults.

I am afraid, Miss, said Arabella, those who can divert themselves with the Faults of others, are not behind hand in affording Diversion. And that very Inclination, added she, smilingly, to hear other Peoples Faults, may by those very People, be condemned as one, and afford them the same Kind of ill-natur'd Pleasure you are so desirous of.

Nay, Madam, return'd Miss Glanville, your Ladyship was the first who introduc'd the Dis∣course you condemn so much. Did not you desire Mr. Tinsel to tell you Histories about the Company; and ask my brother and me, to come and hear them?

'Tis true, reply'd Arabella, that I did desire you to partake with me of a pleasing and rational Amusement, for such I imagin'd Mr. Tinsel's Histories might afford; far from a Detail of Vices, Follies, and Irregularities, I

expected to have heard the Adventures of some illustrious Personages related; between whose Actions, and those of the Heroes and Heroines of Antiquity, I might have found some Re∣semblance.

For Instance, I hop'd to have heard imitated the sublime Courage of a Clelia, who, to save her Honour from the Attempts of the impious Tarquin, leap'd into the River Tyber, and swam to the other Side; or the noble Resolution of the incomparable Candace, who, to escape out of the Hands of her Ravisher, the Pirate Ze∣nadorus, set Fire to his Vessel with her own Hands, and committed herself to the Mercy of the Waves: Or, the Constancy and Affection of a Mandana, who, for the Sake of a Cyrus, refused the richest Crowns in the World, and braved the Terrors of Death to preserve herself for him.

As for the Men, I hoped to have heard of some who might have almost equall'd the great Oroondates, the invincible Artaban, the valiant Juba, the renowned Alcamenes, and many thousand Heroes of Antiquity; whose glorious Exploits in War, aud unsaken Constancy in Love, have given them an immortal Fame.

While Arabella was uttering this long Speech, with great Emotion, Miss Glanville, with a sly Look at the Beau, gave him to understand, that was her Cousin's Foible.

Mr. Tinsel, however, not able to compre∣hend the Meaning of what she said, listen'd to her with many Signs of Perplexity and Wonder.

Mr. Selvin in secret repin'd at her prodigious Knowledge of History; and Mr. Glanville,

with his Eyes fix'd on the Ground, bit his Lips almost through with Madness.

In the mean Time, several among the Com∣pany, desirous of hearing what the strange Lady was saying so loud, and with so much Eagerness and Emotion, gather'd round them; which Mr. Glanville observing, and fearing Arabella would expose herself still farther, whis∣per'd his Sister to get her away if possible.

Miss Glanville, tho' very unwilling, obey'd his Injunctions; and complaining of a sudden Head-ach, Arabella immediately propos'd re∣tiring, which was joyfully complied with by Mr. Glanville, who with the other Gentlemen attended them home.

CHAP. IX.

Being a Chapter of the Satyrical Kind.

AT their Return, Sir Charles told his Niece, That she had now had a Specimen of the World, and some of the fashionable Amuse∣ments; and ask'd her, how she had been en∣tertain'd.

Why, truly, Sir, replied she, smiling, I have brought away no great Relish for a Re∣newal of the Amusement I have partaken of To-night. If the World, in which you seem to think I am but new initiated, affords only these Kinds of Pleasures, I shall very soon regret the Solitude and Books I have quitted.

Why pray, said Miss Glanville? What Kind of Amusements did your Ladyship expect to find in the World? And what was there dis∣agreeable in your Entertainment to Night? I am sure there is no Place in England, except London, where there is so much good Company to be met with, as here. The Assembly was very numerous and brillant, and one can be at no Loss for Amusements: The Pump-Room in the Morning, the Parade, and the Rooms, in the Evening, with little occasional Parties of Pleasure, will find one sufficient Employment, and leave none of one's Time to lye useless up∣on one's Hand.

I am of Opinion, replied Arabella, that one's Time is far from being well employ'd in the Manner you portion it out: And People who spend theirs in such trifling Amusements, must certainly live to very little Purpose.

What room, I pray you, does a Lady give for high and noble Adventures, who consumes her Days in Dressing, Dancing, listening to Songs, and ranging the Walks with People as thoughtless as herself? How mean and con∣temptible a Figure must a Life spent in such idle Amusements make in History? Or rather, Are not such Persons always buried in Oblivion, and can any Pen be found who would conde∣scend to record such inconsiderable Actions?

Nor can I persuade myself, added she, that any of those Men whom I saw at the Assembly, with Figures so feminine, Voices so soft, such tripping Steps, and unmeaning Gestures, have ever signalized either their Courage or Con∣stancy;

but might be overcome by their Enemy in Battle, or be false to their Mistress in Love.

Law! Cousin, reply'd Miss Glanville, you are always talking of Battles and Fighting. Do you expect that Persons of Quality, and fine Gentlemen, will go to the Wars? What Bu∣siness have they to fight? That belongs to the Officers.

Then every fine Gentleman is an Officer, said Arabella; and some other Title ought to be found out for Men who do nothing but Dance and Dress.

I could never have imagined, interrupted Mr. Tinsel, surveying Arabella, that a Lady so elegant and gay in her own Appearance, should have an Aversion to Pleasure and Magnificence.

I assure you, Sir, replied Arabella, I have an Aversion to neither: On the contrary, I am a great Admirer of both. But my Ideas of Amusements and Grandeur are probably different from yours.

I will allow the Ladies to be sollicitous about their Habits, and dress with all the Care and Elegance they are capable of; but such Trifles are below the Consideration of a Man, who ought not to owe the Dignity of his Appear∣ance to the Embroidery on his Coat, but to his high and noble Air, the Grandeur of his Courage, the Elevation of his Sentiments, and the many heroick Actions he has perform'd.

Such a Man will dress his Person with a graceful Simplicity, and lavish all his Gold and Embroidery upon his Armour, to render him conspicuous in the Day of Battle. The Plumes in his Helmet will look more graceful in the

Field, than the Feather in his Hat at a Ball; and Jewels blaze with more Propriety on his Shield and Cuirass in Battle, than glittering on his Finger in a Dance.

Do not imagine, however, pursued she, that I absolutely condemn Dancing, and think it a Diversion wholly unworthy of a Hero.

History has recorded some very famous Balls, at which the most illustrious Persons in the World have appear'd.

Cyrus the Great, we are inform'd, open'd a Ball with the divine Mandana at Sardis. The renown'd King of Scythia danc'd with the Princess Cleopatra at Alexandria. The brave Cleomedon with the fair Candace at Ethiopia; but these Diversions were taken but seldom, and consider'd indeed as an Amusement, not as a Part of the Business of Life.

How would so many glorious Battles have been fought, Cities taken, Ladies rescu'd, and other great and noble Adventures been atchiev'd, if the Men, sunk in Sloth and Effeminacy, had continually follow'd the Sound of a Fiddle, saunter'd in Publick Walks, and tattled over a Tea-table.

I vow, Cousin, said Miss Glanville, you are infinitely more severe in your Censures than Mr. Tinsel was at the Assembly. You had lit∣tle Reason methinks to be angry with him.

All I have said, reply'd Arabella, were the natural Inference from your own Account of the Manner in which People live here. When Actions are a Censure upon themselves, the Re∣citer will always be consider'd as a Satirist.

CHAP. X.

In which our Heroine justifies her own Notions by some very illustrious Ex∣amples.

MR. Selvin and Mr. Tinsel, who had listen'd attentively to this Discourse of Ara∣bella, took Leave as soon as it was ended, and went away with very different Opinions of her.

Mr. Tinsel declaring she was a Fool, and had no Knowledge of the World, and Mr. Selvin convinc'd she was a Wit, and very learn'd in Antiquity.

Certainly, said Mr. Selvin, in Support of his Opinion, the Lady has great Judgment; has been capable of prodigious Application, as is apparent by her extensive Reading: Then her Memory is quite miraculous. I protest, I am quite charm'd with her: I never met with such a Woman in my Life.

Her Cousin, in my Opinion, reply'd Mr. Tinsel, is infinitely beyond her in every Merit, but Beauty. How sprightly and free her Con∣versation? What a thorough Knowledge of the World? So true a Taste for polite Amuse∣ments, and a Fund of Spirits that sets Vapours and Spleen at Defiance.

This Speech bringing on a Comparison be∣tween the Ladies, the Champions for each grew so warm in the Dispute, that they had like to have quarrell'd. However, by the Interposition

of some other Gentlemen who were with them, they parted tolerable Friends that Night, and renew'd their Visits to Sir Charles in the Morn∣ing.

They found only Miss Glanville with her Father and Brother. Arabella generally spent the Mornings in her own Chamber, where Reading and the Labours of the Toilet em∣ploy'd her Time till Dinner: Tho' it must be confess'd to her Honour, that the latter en∣gross'd but a very small Part of it.

Miss Glanville, with whom the Beau had a long Conversation at one of the Windows; in which he recounted his Dispute with Mr. Selvin, and the Danger he ran of being pink'd in a Duel, that was his Phrase, for her Sake, at last propos'd a Walk; to which she con∣sented, and engag'd to prevail upon Arabella to accompany them.

That Lady at first positively refus'd; al∣leging in Excuse, That she was so extremely interested in the Fate of the Princess Melisintha, whose Story she was reading, that she could not stir till she had finish'd it.

That poor Princess, continu'd she, is at pre∣sent in a most terrible Situation. She has just set Fire to the Palace, in order to avoid the Embraces of a King who forc'd her to marry him. I am in Pain to know how she escapes the Flames.

Pshaw, interrupted Miss Glanville, let her perish there, if she will: Don't let her hinder our Walk.

Who is it you doom with so much Cruelty to perish, said Arabella, closing the Book, and

looking stedfastly on her Cousin? Is it the beau∣tiful Melisintha, that Princess, whose Fortitude and Patience have justly render'd her the Admi∣ration of the whole World? That Princess, descended from a Race of Heroes, whose he∣roick Virtues all glow'd in her own beauteous Breast; that Princess, who, when taken Cap∣tive with the King her Father, bore her Im∣prisonment and Chains with a marvellous Con∣stancy; and who, when she enslaved her Con∣queror, and given Fetters to the Prince who held her Father and herself in Bonds, nobly refus'd the Diadem he proffer'd her, and devoted herself to Destruction, in order to punish the Enemy of her House. I am not able to relate the rest of her History, seeing I have read no further myself; but if you will be pleased to sit down and listen to me while I read what re∣mains, I am persuaded you will find new Cause to love and admire this amiable Princess.

Pardon me, Madam, said Miss Glanville, I have heard enough; and I could have been very well satisfy'd not to have heard so much. I think we waste a great deal of Time talking about People we know nothing of. The Morn∣ing will be quite lost, if we don't make Haste. Come, added she, you must go: You have a new Lover below, who waits to go with us; he'll die if I don't bring you.

A new Lover! return'd Arabella, surpriz'd.

Aye, aye, said Miss Glanville, the learned Mr. Selvin; I assure you, he had almost quar∣rell'd with Mr. Tinsel last Night about your Ladyship.

Arabella, at this Intelligence, casting down her Eyes, discover'd many Signs of Anger and Confusion: And after a Silence of some Mo∣ments, during which, Miss Glanville had been employ'd in adjusting her Dress at the Glass, addressing herself to her Cousin with an Accent somewhat less sweet than before.

Had any other than yourself, Miss, said she, acquainted me with the Presumption of that unfortunate Person, I should haply have disco∣ver'd my Resentment in other Terms: But, as it is, must inform you, that I take it extremely ill, you should be accessary to giving me this Offence.

Hey day! said Miss Glanville, turning about hastily, How have I offended your Ladyship, pray?

I am willing to hope, Cousin, reply'd Ara∣bella, that it was only to divert yourself with the Trouble and Confusion in which you see me, that you have indiscreetly told Things which ought to have been bury'd in Silence.

And what is all this mighty Trouble and Confusion about then, Madam, said Miss Glanville, smiling? Is it because I told you, Mr. Selvin was a Lover of your Ladyship?

Certainly, said Arabella, such an Information is sufficient to give one a great deal of Perplexi∣ty. Is it such a little Matter, think you, to be told that a Man has the Presumption to love one?

A meer Trifle, reply'd Miss Glanville, laugh∣ing; a hundred Lovers are not worth a Mo∣ment's Thought, when one's sure of them, for then the Trouble is all over. And as for this

unfortunate Person, as your Ladyship called him, let him die at his Leisure, while we go to the Parade.

Your Levity, Cousin, said Arabella, forces me to smile, notwithstanding the Cause I have to be incens'd; however, I have Charity enough to make me not desire the Death of Mr. Selvin, who may repair the Crime he has been guilty of by Repentance and Discontinuation.

Well then, said Miss Glanville, you are re∣solv'd to go to the Parade: Shall I reach you your odd Kind of Capuchin?

How, said Arabella, can I with any Pro∣priety see a Man who has discover'd himself to have a Passion for me? Will he not construe such a Favour into a Permission for him to hope?

Oh! no, interrupted Miss Glanville, he does not imagine I have told your Ladyship he loves you; for indeed he don't know that I am ac∣quainted with his Passion.

Then he is less culpable than I thought him, reply'd Arabella; and if you think I am in no Danger of hearing a Confession of his Fault from his own Mouth, I'll comply with your Request, and go with you to the Parade. But added she, I must first engage you to promise not to leave me alone a Moment, lest he should take Advantage of such an Opportunity, to give some Hint of his Passion, that would force me to treat him very rigorously.

Miss Glanville answer'd laughing, That she would be sure to mind her Directions. How∣ever, said she, your Ladyship need not be ap∣prehensive he will say any fine Things to you;

for I knew a young Lady he was formerly in Love with, and the odious Creature visited her a Twelve-month before he found Courage enough to tell her she was handsome.

Doubtless, reply'd Arabella, he was much to be commended for his Respect. A Lover should never have the Presumption to declare his Passion to his Mistress, unless in certain Circumstances, which may at the same Time in part disarm her Anger. For Instance, he must struggle with the Violence of his Passion, till it has cast him into a Fever. His Physi∣cians must give him over, pronouncing his Di∣stemper incurable, since the Cause of it being in his Mind, all their Art is incapable of re∣moving it. Thus he must suffer, rejoicing at the Approach of Death, which will free him from all his Torments, without violating the Respect he owes to the Divine Object of his Flame. At length, when he has but a few Hours to live, his Mistress, with many Signs of Compassion, conjures him to tell her the Cause of his Despair. The Lover, conscious of his Crime, evades all her Inquiries; but the Lady laying at last a peremptory Command upon him to disclose the Secret, he dares not disobey her, and acknowledges his Passion with the utmost Contrition for having offended her; bidding her take the small Remainder of his Life to expiate his Crime; and finishes his Discourse by falling into a Swoon.

The Lady is touch'd at his Condition, com∣mands him to live, and if necessary, permits him to hope.

This is the most common Way in which such Declarations are, and ought to be brought about. However, there are others, which are as well calculated for sparing a Lady's Confu∣sion, and deprecating her Wrath.

The Lover, for Example, like the Prince of the Massage••es, after having buried his Pas∣sion in Silence for many Years, may chance to be walking with his Confidant in a retir'd Place; to whom, with a Deluge of Tears, he relates the Excess of his Passion and Despair. And while he is thus unbosoming his Griefs, not in the least suspecting he is overheard, his Princess, who had been listning to him in much Trouble and Confusion, by some little Rustling she makes, unawares discovers herself.

The surpriz'd Lover throws himself at her Feet, begs Pardon for his Rashness, observes that he had never presum'd to discover his Passion to her; and implores her Leave to die before her, as a Punishment for his undesign'd Offence.

The Method which the great Artamenes took to let the Princess of Media know he adored her, was not less respectful. This valiant Prince, who had long loved her, being to fight a great Battle, in which he had some secret Presages he should fall, which however deceiv'd him, wrote a long Letter to the divine Mandana, wherein he discover'd his Passion, and the Resolution his Respect had inspir'd him with, to consume in Silence, and never presume to disclose his Love while he lived; acquainting her, that he had order'd that Letter not to be deliver'd to her, till it was certainly known that he was dead.

Accordingly he receiv'd several Wounds in the Fight, which brought him to the Ground, and his Body not being found, they concluded it was in the Enemy's Possession.

His faithful 'Squire, who had receiv'd his In∣structions before the Battle, hastens to the Prin∣cess, who, with all the Court, is mightily af∣fected at his Death.

He presents her the Letter, which she makes no Scruple to receive, since the Writer is no more. She reads it, and her whole Soul is melted with Compassion; she bewails his Fate with the most tender and affectionate Marks of Grief.

Her Confidant asks why she is so much af∣fected, since in all Probability, she would not have pardon'd him for loving her, had he been alive?

She acknowledges the Truth of her Observa∣tion, takes Notice that his Death having can∣cell'd his Crime, his respectful Passion alone employs her Thoughts; she is resolv'd to be∣wail as innocent and worthy of Compassion when dead, whom living she would treat as a Criminal, and insinuates, that her Heart had entertain'd an Affection for him.

Her Confidant treasures up this Hint, and endeavours to console her, but in vain, till News is brought, that Artamenes, who had been car∣ry'd for dead out of the Field, and by a very surprizing Adventure conceal'd all this Time, is return'd.

The Princess is cover'd with Confusion, and tho' glad he is alive, resolves to banish him for his Crime.

Her Confidant pleads his Cause so well, that she consents to see him; and, since he can no longer conceal his Passion, he confirms the Con∣fession in his Letter, humbly begging Pardon for being still alive.

The Princess, who cannot plead Ignorance of his Passion, nor deny the Sorrow she testify'd for his Death, condescends to pardon him, and he is also permitted to hope. In like Manner the great Prince of Persia—

Does your Ladyship consider how late it is, interrupted Miss Glanville, who had hitherto very impatiently listen'd to her? Don't let us keep the Gentlemen waiting any longer for us.

I must inform you how the Prince of Persia declar'd his Love for the incomparable Berenice, said Arabella.

Another Time, dear Cousin, said Miss Glanville; methinks we have talk'd long enough upon this Subject.

I am sorry the Time has seem'd so tedious to you, said Arabella, smiling; and therefore I'll trespass no longer upon your Patience. Then ordering Lucy to bring her Hat and Gloves, she went down Stairs, follow'd by Miss Glanville, who was greatly disappointed at her not putting on her Veil.

CHAP. XI.

In which our Heroine being mistaken her∣self, gives Oceasion for a great many other Mistakes.

AS soon as the Ladies enter'd the Room, Mr. Selvin, with more Gaiety than usual, advanc'd towards Arabella, who put on so cold and severe a Countenance at his Approach, that the poor Man, extreamly confus'd, drew back, and remain'd in great Perplexity, fearing he had offended her.

Mr. Tinsel, seeing Mr. Selvin's Reception, and aw'd by the becoming Majesty in her Per∣son, notwithstanding all his Assurance, accosted her with less Confidence than was his Custom; but Arabella softning her Looks with the most engaging Smiles, made an Apology for detain∣ing them so long from the Parade, gave her Hand to the Beau, as being not a suspected Person, and permitted him to lead her out. Mr. Glanville, to whom she always allow'd the Preference on those Occasions, being a little in∣dispos'd, and not able to attend her.

Mr. Tinsel, whose Vanity was greatly flat∣ter'd by the Preference Arabella gave him to his Companion, proceeded according to his usual Custom, to examine her Looks and Be∣haviour with more Care; conceiving such a Preference must proceed from a latent Motive which was not unfavourable for him. His Discernment on these Occasions being very sur∣prising,

he soon discover'd in the bright Eyes of Arabella a secret Approbation of his Person, which he endeavour'd to increase by displaying it with all the Address he was Master of, and did not fail to talk her into an Opinion of his Wit, by ridiculing every Body that pass'd them, and directing several study'd Compliments to herself.

Miss Glanville, who was not so agreeably en∣tertain'd by the grave Mr. Selvin, saw these Advances to a Gallantry with her Cousin with great Disturbance: She was resolved to in∣terrupt it if possible, and being convinc'd Mr. Selvin preferr'd Arabella's Conversation to hers, she plotted how to pair them together, and have the Beau to herself.

As they walk'd a few Paces behind her Cousin and Mr. Tinsel, she was in no Danger of be∣ing over-heard; and taking Occasion to put Mr. Selvin in mind of Arabella's Behaviour to him, when he accosted her; she ask'd him, if he was conscious of having done any thing to offend her?

I protest, Madam, reply'd Mr. Selvin, I know not of any thing I have done to displease her. I never fail'd, to my Knowledge, in my Re∣spects towards her Ladyship, for whom indeed I have a most profound Veneration.

I know so much of her Temper, resum'd Miss Glanville, as to be certain, if she has taken it into her Head to be angry with you, she will be ten times more so at your Indifference: And if you hope for her Favour, you must ask her Pardon with the most earnest Submission ima∣ginable.

If I knew I had offended her, reply'd Mr. Selvin, I would very willingly ask her Par∣don; but really, since I have not been guilty of any Fault towards her Ladyship, I don't know how to acknowledge it.

Well, said Miss Glanville coldly, I only took the Liberty to give you some friendly Ad∣vice, which you may follow, or not, as you please. I know my Cousin is angry at some∣thing, and I wish you were Friends again, that's all.

I am mightily oblig'd to you, Madam, said Mr. Selvin; and since you assure me her Lady∣ship is angry, I'll ask her Pardon, tho', really, as I said before, I don't know for what.

Well, interrupted Miss Glanville, we'll join them at the End of the Parade; and to give you an Opportunity of speaking to my Cousin, I'll engage Mr. Tinsel myself.

Mr. Selvin, who thought himself greatly oblig'd to Miss Glanville for her good Intentions, tho' in reality she had a View of exposing of her Cousin, as well as an Inclination to engage Mr. Tinsel, took Courage as they turn'd, to get on the other Side of Arabella, whom he had not dar'd before to approach, while Miss Glanville, addressing a Whisper of no great Importance to her Cousin, parted her from the Beau, and slackning her Pace a little, fell into a particular Discourse with him, which Arabella being too polite to interrupt, remain'd in a very perplex∣ing Situation, dreading every Moment that Mr. Selvin would explain himself. Alarm'd at his Silence, yet resolv'd to interrupt him if he began to speak, and afraid of beginning a Con∣versation

first, lest he should construe it to his Advantage.

Mr. Selvin being naturally timid in the Com∣pany of Ladies, the Circumstance of Disgrace which he was in with Arabella, her Silence and Reserve so added to his accustom'd Diffidence, that tho' he endeavour'd several times to speak, he was not able to bring out any thing but a preluding Hem; which he observ'd, to his ex∣treme Confusion, seem'd always to encrease Arabella's Constraint.

Indeed, that Lady, upon any Suspicion that he was going to break his mysterious Silence, always contracted her Brow into a Frown, cast down her Eyes with an Air of Perplexity, en∣deavour'd to hide her Blushes with her Fan; and to shew her In-attention, directed her Looks to the contrary Side.

The Lady and Gentleman being in equal Confusion, no Advances were made on either Side towards a Conversation, and they had reach'd almost the End of the Parade in an un∣interrupted Silence; when Mr. Selvin, fearing he should never again have so good an Opportu∣nity of making his Peace, collected all his Re∣solution, and with an Accent trembling under the Importance of the Speech he was going to make, began,

Madam, Since I have had the Honour of walking with your Ladyship, I have observed so many Signs of Constraint in your Manner, that I hardly dare intreat you to grant me a Moment's Hearing while I—

Sir, interrupted Arabella, before you go any further, I must inform you, that what you are

going to say will mortally offend me. Take heed then how you commit an Indiscretion which will force me to treat you very rigorously.

If your Ladyship will not allow me to speak in my own Justification, said Mr. Selvin, yet I hope you will not refuse to tell me my Offence, since I—

You are very confident, indeed, interrupted Arabella, again, to suppose I will repeat what would be infinitely grievous for me to hear. Against my Will, pursued she, I must give you the Satisfaction to know, that I am not igno∣rant of your Crime, but I also assure you that I am highly incens'd; and that, not only with the Thoughts you have dar'd to entertain of me, but likewise with your Presumption in going about to disclose them.

Mr. Selvin, whom the seeming Contradictions in this Speech astonish'd, yet imagin'd in ge∣neral it hinted at the Dispute between him and Mr. Tinsel; and supposing the Story had been told to his Disadvantage, which was the Cause of her Anger, reply'd in great Emotion at the Injustice done him.

Since somebody has been so officious to ac∣quaint your Ladyship with an Affair which ought to have been kept from your Knowledge; 'tis a Pity they did not inform you, that Mr. Tinsel was the Person that had the least Respect for your Ladyship, and is more worthy of your Resentment.

If Mr. Tinsel, replied Arabella, is guilty of an Offence like yours, yet since he has con∣ceal'd it better, he is less culpable than you; and you have done that for him, which haply

he would never have had Courage enough to do for himself as long as he lived.

Poor Selvin, quite confounded at these intri∣cate Words, would have begg'd her to explain herself, had she not silenc'd him with a dreadful Frown: Aand making a Stop till Miss Glanville and Mr. Tinsel came up to them. She told her Cousin with a peevish Accent, that she had perform'd her Promise very ill; and whisper'd her, that she was to blame for all the Mortifi∣cations she had suffer'd.

Mr. Tinsel, supposing the Alteration in Arabella's Humour proceeded from being so long depriv'd of his Company; endeavour'd to make her Amends by a Profusion of Compliments; which she receiv'd with such an Air of Dis∣pleasure, that the Beau, vex'd at the ill Success of his Gallantry, told her, he was afraid Mr. Sel∣vin's Gravity had infected her Ladyship.

Say rather, reply'd Arabella, that his Indis∣cretion has offended me.

Mr. Tinsel, charm'd with this beginning Con∣fidence, which confirm'd his Hopes of having made fome Impression on her Heart; conjur'd her very earnestly to tell him how Mr. Selvin had offended her.

'Tis sufficient, resum'd she, that I tell you he has offended me, without declaring the Na∣ture of his Crime, since doubtless it has not escaped your Observation, which, if I may believe him, is not wholly disinterested. To confess yet more, 'tis true that he hath told me something concerning you, which—

Let me perish, Madam, interrupted the Beau, if one Syllable he has said be true.

How, said Arabella, a little disconcerted, Will you always persist in a Denial then?

Deny it, Madam, return'd Mr. Tinsel, I'll deny what he has said with my last Breath; 'tis all a scandalous Forgery: No Man living is less likely to think of your Ladyship in that Man∣ner. If you knew my Thoughts, Madam, you would be convinc'd nothing is more im∣possible, and—

Sir, interrupted Arabella, extremely morti∣fy'd, methinks you are very eager in your Ju∣stification. I promise you, I do not think you guilty of the Offence he charg'd you with; if I did, you would haply experience my Resent∣ment in such a Manner, as would make you repent of your Presumption.

Arabella, in finishing these Words, inter∣rupted Miss Glanville's Discourse with Mr. Selvin, to tell her, she desir'd to return Home; to which that young Lady, who had not been at all pleas'd with the Morning's Walk, consented.

CHAP. XII.

In which our Heroine reconciles herself to a mortifying Incident, by recollecting an Adventure in a Romance, similar to her own.

AS soon as the Ladies were come to their Lodgings, Arabella went up to her own Apartment to meditate upon what had pass'd, and Miss Glanville retir'd to dress for Dinner;

while the two Gentlemen, who thought they had great Reason to be dissatisfy'd with each other on Account of Lady Bella's Behaviour, went to a Coffee-house, in order to come to some Explanation about it,

Well, Sir, said the Beau, with a sarcastick Air, I am greatly oblig'd to you for the Endea∣vours you have us'd to ruin me in Lady Bella's Opinion. Rat me, if it is not the greatest Misfortune in the World, to give occasion for Envy.

Envy, Sir, interrupted Mr. Selvin; I protest I do really admire your great Skill in Strata∣gems, but I do not envy you the Possession of it. You have, indeed, very wittily contriv'd to put your own Sentiments of that Lady, which you deliver'd so freely the other Night, into my Mouth. 'Twas a Master-piece of Cunning, indeed; and, as I said before, I ad∣mire your Skill prodigiously.

I don't know what you mean, reply'd Tinsel, y••u talk in Riddles. Did you not yourself ac∣quaint Lady Bella with the Preference I gave Miss Glanville to her? What would you pro∣pose by such a Piece of Treachery? You have ruin'd all my Hopes by it: The Lady resents it excessively, and it's no Wonder, 'faith, it must certainly mortify her. Upon my Soul, I can never forgive thee for so mal a propos a Discovery.

Forgive me, Sir, replied Selvin, in a Rage, I don't want your Forgiveness. I have done nothing unbecoming a Man of Honour. The Lady was so prejudiced by your Insinuations, that she would not give me Leave to speak;

otherwise, I would have fully inform'd her of her Mistake, that she might have known how much she was oblig'd to you.

So she would not hear thee, interrupted Tinsel laughing, dear Soul, how very kind was that? 'Faith, I don't know how it is, but I am very lucky, without deserving to be so. Thou art a Witness for me, Frank, I took no great Pains to gain this fine Creature's Heart; but it was damn'd malicious tho', to attempt to make Discoveries. I see she is a little piqu'd, but I'll set all to rights again with a Billet-doux. I've an excellent Hand, tho' I say it, at a Billet-doux. I never knew one of mine fail in my Life.

Harky, Sir, said Selvin whispering, any more Attempts to shift your Sentiments upon me, and you shall hear of it. In the mean Time, be assur'd, I'll clear myself, and put the Saddle upon the right Horse.

Demme, if thou art not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 queer Fellow, said Tinsel, endeavouring to hide his Discompo∣sure at this Threat under a forc'd Laugh.

Selvin, without making any Reply, retir'd to write to Arabella; which Tinsel suspecting, resolv'd to be before hand with him; and with∣out leaving the Coffee-house, call'd for Paper, and wrote a Billet to her, which he dispatch'd away immediately.

The Messenger had just got Admittance to Lucy, when another arriv'd from Selvin.

They both presented their Letters, but Lucy refus'd them, saying, her Lady would turn her away, if she receiv'd such Sort of Letters.

Such Sort of Letters, return'd Tinsel's Man! Why, do you know what they contain, then?

To be sure, I do, reply'd Lucy; they are Love-Letters; and my Lady has charg'd me never to receive any more.

Well, reply'd Selvin's Servant, you may take my Letter; for my Master desir'd me to tell you, it was about Business of Consequence, which your Lady must be acquainted with.

Since you assure me it is not a Love-Letter, I'll take it, said Lucy.

And, pray take mine too, said Tinsel's Mer∣cury; for I assure you, it is not a Love-Letter neither; it's only a Billet-doux.

Are you sure of that, reply'd Lucy; because I may venture to take it, I fancy, if its what you say.

I'll swear it, said the Man delivering it to her. Well, said she, receiving it, I'll take them both up. But what did you call this, pursu'd she? I must not forget it, or else my Lady will think it a Love-Letter.

A Billet-doux, said the Man.

Lucy, for fear she should forget it, repeated the Words Billet-doux several Times as she went up Stairs; but entering her Lady's Apartment, she perceiving the Letters in her Hand, ask'd her so sternly, how she durst presume to bring them into her Presence, that the poor Girl, in her Fright, forgot the Lesson she had been con∣ning; and endeavouring to recal it into her Memory, took no Notice of her Lady's Que∣stion, which she repeated several times, but to no Purpose.

Arabella, surpriz'd at her in-attention, re∣iterated her Commands, in a Tone somewhat

louder than usual; asking her at the same Time, why she did not obey her immediately?

Indeed, Madam, reply'd Lucy, your Lady∣ship would not order me to take back the Let∣ters, if you knew what they were: They are not Love-Letters; I was resolv'd to be sure of that before I took them. This, Madam, is a Letter about Business of Consequence; and the other—Oh dear! I can't think what the Man call'd it! But it is not a Love-Letter, in∣deed, Madam.

You are a simple Wench, said Arabella smiling: You may depend upon it, all Letters directed to me, must contain Matters of Love and Gallantry; and those I am not permitted to receive. Take them away then immediately. But stay, pursued she, seeing she was about to obey her, one of them, you say, was deliver'd to you as a Letter of Consequence; perhaps i•• is so: Indeed it may contain an Advertisement of some Design to carry me away. How do I know, but Mr. Selvin, incited by his Love and Despair, may intend to make such an Attempt. Give me that Letter, Lucy, I am resolved to open it. As for the other—yet who knows but the other may also bring me Warning of the same Danger from another Quarter. The Pains Mr. Tinsel took to conceal his Passion, nay, almost as I think, to deny it, amounts to a Proof that he is meditating some Way to make sure of me. 'Tis certainly so: Give me that Letter, Lucy; I should be accessary to their intended Violence, if I neglected this timely Discovery.

Well, cried she, taking one of the Letters, this is exactly like what happen'd to the beauti∣ful Princess of Cappadocia; who, like me, in one and the same Day, receiv'd Advice that two of her Lovers intended to carry her off.

As she pronounc'd these Words Miss Glanville enter'd the Room, to whom Arabella immedi∣ately recounted the Adventure of the Letters; telling her, she did not doubt, but they contain'd a Discovery of some Conspiracy to carry her away.

And whom does your Ladyship suspect of such a strange Design, pray, said Miss Glanville smiling?

At present, reply'd Arabella, the two Cava∣liers who walk'd with us to Day, are the Per∣sons who seem the most likely to attempt that Violence.

I dare answer for Mr. Tinsel, replied Miss Glanville, he thinks of no such Thing.

Well, said Arabella, to convince you of your Mistake, I must inform you, that Mr. Selvin, having the Presumption to begin a Declaration of Love to me on the Parade this Morning, I reprov'd him severely for his Want of Respect, and threatned him with my Displeasure; in the Rage of his Jealousy, at seeing me treat Mr. Tinsel well, he discover'd to me, that he also was as criminal as himself, in order to oblige me to a severer Usage of him.

So he told you Mr. Tinsel was in Love with you, interrupted Miss Glanville?

He told it me in other Words, reply'd Arabella; for he said, Mr. Tinsel was guilty of that Of∣fence, which I resented so severely to him.

Miss Glanville beginning to comprehend the Mystery, with great Difficulty forbore laugh∣ing at her Cousin's Mistake; for she well knew the Offence Mr. Selvin hinted at, and desirous of knowing what those Letters contain'd, she begg'd her to delay opening them no longer.

Arabella, pleas'd at her Solicitude, open'd one of the Letters; but glancing her Eye to the Bottom, and seeing the Name of Selvin, she threw it hastily upon the Table, and avert∣ing her Eyes, What a Mortification have I avoided, said she, that Letter is from Selvin; and questionless, contains an Avowal of his Crime.

Nay, you must read it, cried Miss Glanville, taking it up; since you have open'd it, its the same Thing: You can never persuade him but you have seen it. However, to spare your Nicety, I'll read it to you. Which accordingly she did, and found it as follows.

MADAM,

I Knows not what Insinuations have been made use of to persuade you I was guilty of the Offence, which, with Justice, occa∣sion'd your Resentment this Morning; but I assure you, nothing was ever more false. My Thoughts of your Ladyship are very different, and full of the profoundest Re∣spect and Veneration. I have Reason to suspect Mr. Tinsel is the Person who has thus endeavoured to prejudice me with your La∣dyship; therefore I am excusable if I tell you, that those very Sentiments, too dis∣respectful to be named, which he would per∣suade

you are mine, he discover'd himself. He then, Madam, is the Person guilty of that Offence he so falsly lays to the Charge of him, who is, with the utmost Respect and Esteem,

Madam,

Your Ladyship's most obedient, and most humble Servant, F. SELVIN.

How's this, cry'd Miss Glanville? Why, Madam, you are certainly mistaken. You see Mr. Selvin utterly denies the Crime of loving you. He has suffer'd very innocently in your Opinion. Indeed, your Ladyship was too hasty in condemning him.

If what he says be true, replied Arabella, who had been in extream Confusion, while a Letter so different from what she expected was reading; I have indeed unjustly condemn'd him. Nevertheless, I am still inclin'd to be∣lieve this is all Artifice; and that he is really guilty of entertaining a Passion for me.

But why should he take so much Pains to deny it, Madam, said Miss Glanville? Methinks that looks very odd.

Not at all, interrupted Arabella, whose Spi∣rits were rais'd by recollecting an Adventure in her Romance, similar to this. Mr. Selvin has fallen upon the very same Stratagem with Sera∣menes; who being in Love with the beautiful Cleobuline, Princess of Corinth, took all ima∣ginable Pains to conceal his Passion, in order

to be near that fair Princess; who would have banish'd him from her Presence, had she known he was in Love with her. Nay, he went so far in his Dissimulation, as to pretend Love to one of the Ladies of her Court; that his Pas∣sion for the Princess might be the less taken no∣tice of. In these Cases therefore, the more re∣solutely a Man denies his Passion, the more pure and violent it is.

Then Mr. Selvin's Passion is certainly very violent, reply'd Miss Glanville, for he denies it very resolutely; and I believe none but your Ladyship would have discover'd his Artifice. But shall we not open the other Letter? I have a strong Notion it comes from Tinsel.

For that very Reason I would not be ac∣quainted with the Contents, reply'd Arabella, You see, Mr. Selvin accuses him of being guilty of that Offence which he denies: I shall doubt∣less, meet with a Confirmation of his Love in that Letter. Do not, I beseech you added she, seeing her Cousin preparing to open the Letter, expose me to the Pain of hearing a pre∣sumptuous Declaration of Love. Nay, pur∣sued she, rising in great Emotion, if you are resolved to persecute me by reading it, I'll en∣deavour to get out of the hearing of it.

You shan't, I declare, said Miss Glanville, laughing and holding her, I'll oblige you to hear it.

I vow, Cousin, said Arabella smiling, you use me just as the Princess Cleopatra did the fair and wise Antonia. However, if by this you mean to do any Kindness to the unfortunate Person who wrote that Billet, you are greatly

mistaken; since, if you oblige me to listen to a Declaration of his Crime, you will lay me under a Necessity to banish him. A Sentence he would have avoided, while I remained ig∣norant of it.

To this Miss Glanville made no other Reply than by opening the Billet, the Contents of which may be found in the following Chapter.

CHAP. XIII.

In which our Heroin's Extravagance will be thought, perhaps, to be carried to an extravagant Length.

MADAM,

I Had the Honour to assure you this Morn∣ing on the Parade, that the Insinuations Mr. Selvin made use of to rob me of the superlative Happiness of your Esteem were entirely false and groundless. May the Beams of your bright Eyes never shine on me more, if there is any Truth in what he said to pre∣judice me with your Ladyship. If I am permitted to attend you to the Rooms this Evening, I hope to convince you, that it was absolutely impossible I could have been capable of such a Crime, who am, with the most profound Respect,

Your Ladyship's most devoted, &c. D. TINSEL.

Well, Madam, said Miss Glanville when she had read this Epistle, I fancy you need not pronounce a Sentence of Banishment upon poor Mr. Tinsel; he seems to be quite innocent of the Offence your Ladyship suspects him of.

Why, really, return'd Arabella, blushing with extreme Confusion at this second Disap∣pointment, I am greatly perplex'd to know how I ought to act on this Occasion. I am much in the same Situation with the Princess Serena. For you must know, this Princess— Here Lucy entering, inform'd the Ladies Din∣ner was serv'd—I shall defer till another Op∣portunity, said Arabella, upon this Interruption, the Relation of the Princess Serena's Adven∣tures; which you will find, added she, in a low Voice, bears a very great Resemblance to mine.

Miss Glanville reply'd, she would hear it whenever she pleas'd, and then follow'd Arabella to the Dining Room.

The Cloth was scarce remov'd, when Mr. Selvin came in. Arabella blush'd at his Appearance, and discover'd so much Perplexity in her Behaviour, that Mr. Selvin was appre∣hensive he had not yet sufficiently justify'd him∣self; and therefore took the first Opportunity to approach her.

I shall think myself very unhappy, Madam, said he bowing, if the Letter I did myself the Honour to write to you this Morning—

Sir, interrupted Arabella, I perceive you are going to forget the Contents of that Letter, and preparing again to offend me by a presump∣tuous Declaration of Love.

Who I, Madam, reply'd he, in great Asto∣nishment and Confusion, I-I-I protest—tho' I-I have a very great Respect for your Lady∣ship, yet—yet I never presum'd to—to—to—

You have presum'd too much, replied Ara∣bella, and I should forget what I ow'd to my own Glory, if I furnish'd you with any more Occasions of offending me.—Know then, I absolutely forbid you to appear before me again, at least, till I am convinc'd you have chang'd your Sentiments.

Saying this, she rose from her Seat, and making a Sign to him not to follow her, which indeed he had no Intention to do, she quitted the Room, highly satisfy'd with her own Con∣duct upon this Occasion, which was exactly conformable to the Laws of Romance.

Mr. Tinsel, who had just alighted from his Chair, having a Glimpse of her, as she pass'd to her own Apartment, resolv'd, if possible, to procure a private Interview; for he did not doubt but his Billet had done Wonders in his Favour.

For that Purpose he ventur'd up to her Anti-Chamber, where he found Lucy in waiting, whom he desir'd to acquaint her Lady, that he intreated a Moment's Speech with her.

Lucy, after hesitating a Moment, and look∣ing earnestly at him, replied, Sir, if you'll promise me faithfully, you are not in Love with my Lady, I'll go and deliver your Mes∣sage.

Duce take me, said Tinsel, if that is not a very whimsical Condition truly—Pray, my Dear, how came it into thy little Brain, to

suspect I was in Love with thy Lady? But, suppose I should be in Love with her, what then?

Why, then its likely you would die, that's all, said Lucy, without my Lady would be so kind to command you to live.

I vow thou hast mighty pretty Notions, Child, said Tinsel smiling; hast thou been reading any Play-Book lately? But pray, dost think thy Lady would have compassion on me, if I was in Love with her? Come, I know thou art in her Confidence? Hast thou ever heard her talk of me? Does she not tell thee all her Secrets?

Here Arabella's Bell ringing, the Beau slipp'd half a Guinea into her Hand, which Lucy not willing to refuse, went immediately to her Lady; to whom, with a trembling Accent, she repeated Mr. Tinsel's Request.

Imprudent Girl, cried Arabella, for I am loth to suspect thee of Disloyalty to thy Mistress. Dost thou know the Nature and Extent of the Request thou hast deliver'd? Art thou ignorant that the presumptuous Man whom thou sollicitest this Favour for, has mortally offended me?

Indeed, Madam, said Lucy frighted out of her Wits, I don't sollicit for him. I scorn to do any such Thing. I would not offend your Ladyship for the World: For, before I would deliver his Message to your Ladyship, I made him assure me, that he was not in Love with your Ladyship.

That was very wisely done, indeed, replied Arabella, smiling: And do you believe he spoke the Truth?

Yes, indeed, I am sure of it, said Lucy eagerly, if your Ladyship will but be pleas'd to see him, he is only in the next Room; I dare promise—

How, interrupted Arabella! What have you done? Have you brought him into my Apart∣ment then? I protest this Adventure is exactly like what befel the beautiful Statira, when, by a Stratagem of the same Kind, Oroondates was introduc'd into her Presence. Lucy, thou art another Barsina, I think; but I hope thy In∣tentions are not less innocent than hers was.

Indeed, Madam, reply'd Lucy, excessively uneasy at her Lady's Words, I am very inno∣cent, I am no Barsina, as your Ladyship calls me.

I dare answer for thee, said Arabella smiling at the Turn she gave to her Words, thou art no Barsina; and I should wrong thee very much to compare thee with that wise Princess; for thou art certainly one of the most simple Wenches in the World. But since thou hast gone so far, let me know what the unfortunate Person desires of me; for, since I am neither more rigid, nor pretend to more Virtue than Statira, I may do at least as much for him, as that great Queen did for Oroondates.

He desires, Madam, said Lucy, that your Ladyship would be pleas'd to let him speak with you.

Or, in his Words, I suppose, replied Arabella, he humbly implor'd a Moment's Audience.

I told your Ladyship his very Words, indeed, Madam, said Lucy.

I tell thee, Girl, thou art mistaken, said Arabella; 'tis impossible he should sue for such a Favour in Terms like those: Therefore, go back, and let him know that I consent to grant him a short Audience upon these Conditions.

First, Provided he does not abuse my Indul∣gence by offending me with any Protestations of his Passion.

Secondly, That he engages to fulfil the In∣junctions I shall lay upon him, however cruel and terrible they may appear.

Lastly, That his Despair must not prompt him to any Act of Desperation against himself.

Lucy having received this Message, quitted the Room hastily, for fear she should forget it.

Well, my pretty Ambassadress, said Tinsel when he saw her enter the Anti-Chamber, Will your Lady see me?

No, Sir, replied Lucy.

No, interrupted Tinsel, that's kind 'faith, after waiting so long.

Pray Sir, said Lucy, don't put me out so; I shall forget what my Lady order'd me to tell you.

Oh! I ask your Pardon, Child, said Tinsel. Come, let me hear your Message.

Sir, said Lucy adapting the Solemnity of her Lady's Accent—My Lady bad me say, that she will grant—No, that she consents to grant you a short Dience.

Audience you would say Child, said Tinsel. But how came you to tell me before she would not see me?—

I vow and protest, Sir, said Lucy, you have put all my Lady's Words clean out of my Head—I don't know what comes next—

Oh, no matter, said Tinsel, you have told me enough: I'll wait upon her directly.

Lucy, who saw him making towards the Door, prest between it and him; and having all her Lady's Whims in her Head, suppos'd he was going to carry her away—Possess'd with this Thought, she scream'd out, Help! Help! for Heaven's Sake! My Lady willl be carry'd away!

Arabella hearing this Exclamation of her Woman's, eccho'd her Screams, tho' with a Voice infinitely more delicate; and seeing Tinsel, who, confounded to the last Degree at the Cries of both the Lady and her Woman, had got into her Chamber he knew not how, she gave herself over for lost, and fell back in her Chair in a Swoon, or something she took for a Swoon, for she was persuaded it could happen no otherwise; since all Ladies in the same Circumstances arr terrify'd into a fainting Fit, and seldom recover till they are conveni∣ently carried away; and when they awake, find themselves many Miles off in the Power of their Ravisher.

Arabella's other Women, alarm'd by her Cries, came running into the Room; and see∣ing Mr. Tinsel there, and their Lady ia a Swoon, concluded some very extraordinary Accident had happen'd.

What is your Business here, cry'd they all at a Time? Is it you that has frighted her Lady∣ship?

Devil take me, said Tinsel amaz'd, if I can tell what all this means.

By this Time Sir Charles, Mr. Glanville, and his Sister, came running astonish'd up Stairs. Arabella still continu'd motionless in her Chair, her Eyes clos'd, and her Head reclin'd upon Lucy, who with her other Women, was en∣deavouring to recover her.

Mr. Glanville eagerly ran to her Assistance, while Sir Charles and his Daughter as eagerly interrogated Mr. Tinsel, who stood motionless with Surprize, concerning the Cause of her Disorder.

Arabella, then first discovering some Signs of Life, half open'd her Eyes.

Inhuman Wretch, cry'd she, with a faint Voice, supposing herself in the Hands of her Ravisher, think not thy cruel Violence shall procure thee what thy Submissions could not obtain; and if when thou hadst only my In∣difference to surmount, thou didst find it so dif∣ficult to overcome my Resolution, now that by this unjust Attempt, thou hast added Aversion to that Indifference, never hope for any Thing but the most bitter Reproaches from me.—

Why, Niece, said Sir Charles approaching her, what's the Matter? Look up, I beseech you, no-body is attempting to do you any Hurt; here's none but Friends about you.

Arabella, raising her Head at the Sound of her Uncle's Voice, and casting a confus'd Look on the Persons about her,

May I believe my Senses? Am I rescu'd, and in my own Chamber? To whose Va∣lour is my Deliverance owing? Without

doubt, 'tis to my Cousin's; but where is he? Let me assure him of my Gratitude.

Mr. Glanville, who had retir'd to a Window in great Confusion, as soon as he heard her call for him, came towards her, and in a Whisper begg'd her to be compos'd; that she was in no Danger.

And pray, Niece, said Sir Charles, now you are a little recover'd, be so good to inform us of the Cause of your Fright. What has hap∣pen'd to occasion all this Confusion?

How, Sir, said Arabella, don't you know then what has happen'd?—Pray how was I brought again into my Chamber, and by what Means was I rescu'd?

I protest, said Sir Charles, I don't know that you have been out of it.

Alas, replied Arabella, I perceive you are quite ignorant of what has befallen me; nor am I able to give you any Information: All I can tell you is, that alarm'd by my Womens Cries, and the Sight of my Ravisher, who came into my Chamber, I fainted away, and so faciliated his Enterprize; since doubtless it was very easy for him to carry me away while I remain'd in that senseless Condition. How I was rescu'd, or by whom, one of my Women can haply inform you; since its probable one of them was also forc'd away with me—Oh Heav'ns! cry'd she, seeing Tinsel, who all this while stood gazing like one distracted; what makes that impious Man in my Presence! What am I to think of this? Am I really de∣liver'd or no?

What can this mean, cried Sir Charles, turn∣ing to Tinsel? Have you, Sir, had any Hand in frighting my Niece?—

I, Sir, said Tinsel! Let me perish if ever I was so confounded in my Life: The Lady's Brain is disorder'd I believe.

Mr. Glanville, who was convinc'd all this Confusion was caus'd by some of Arabella's usual Whims, dreaded lest an Explanation would the more expose her; and therefore told his Father, that it would be best to retire, and leave his Cousin to the Care of his Sister and her Wo∣men; adding, that she was not yet quite reco∣ver'd, and their Presence did but discompose her.

Then addressing himself to Tinsel, told him he would wait upon him down Stairs.

Arabella seeing them going away together, and supposing they intended to dispute the Pos∣session of her with their Swords, call'd out to them to stay.

Mr. Glanville however, without minding her, press'd Mr. Tinsel to walk down.

Nay, pray, Sir, said the Beau, let us go in again; she may grow outrageous if we disoblige her.

Outrageous, Sir, said Glanville, do you sup∣pose my Cousin is mad?

Upon my Soul, Sir, replied Tinsel, if she is not mad, she is certainly a little out of her Senses, or so—

Arabella having reiterated her Commands for her Lovers to return, and finding they did not obey her, ran to her Chamber-door, where they were holding a surly Sort of Conference, espe∣cially

on Glanville's Side, who was horridly out of Humour.

I perceive by your Looks. said Arabella to her Cousin, the Design you are meditating; but know that I absolutely forbid you, by all the Power I have over you, not to engage in Combat with my Ravisher here.

Madam, interrupted Glanville, I beseech you do not—

I know, said she, you will object to me the Examples of Artamenes, Aronces, and many others, who were so generous as to promise their Rivals not to refuse them that Satisfaction whenever they demanded it—but consider, you have not the same Obligations to Mr. Tinsel that Artamenes had to the King of Assyria, or that Arances had to—

For God's Sake, Cousin, said Glanville, what's all this to the Purpose? Curse on Aronces and the King of Assyria, I say—

The Astonishment of Arabella at this intem∣perate Speech of her Cousin, kept her for a Mo∣ment immoveable, when Sir Charles, who du∣ring this Discourse, had been collecting all the Information he could from Lucy, concerning this perplex'd Affair, came towards Tinsel, and giving him an angry Look, told him, He should take it well if he forbore visiting any of his Fa∣mily for the future.

Oh! Your most obedient Servant, Sir, said Tinsel: You expect, I suppose, I should be ex∣cessively chagrin'd at this Prohibition? But up∣on my Soul, I am greatly oblig'd to you. Agad! I have no great Mind to a Halter: And since this Lady is so apt to think People have a Design

to ravish her, the wisest Thing a Man can do, is to keep out of her Way.

Sir, replied Glanville, who had follow'd him to the Door, I believe there was been some little Mistake in what has happen'd To-day—How∣ever, I expect you'll take no unbecoming Li∣berties with the Character of Lady Bella—

Oh! Sir, said Tinsel, I give you my Honour I shall always speak of the Lady with the most profound Veneration. She is a most accom∣plish'd, incomprehensible Lady: And the De∣vil take me, if I think there is her Fellow in the World—And so, Sir, I am your most obedient—

A Word with you before you go, said Glanville stopping him—No more of these Sneers as you value that smooth Face of yours, or I'll despoil it of a Nose.

Oh! Your humble Servant, said the Beau, retiring in great Confusion, with something be∣twixt a Smile and a Grin upon his Countenance, which he took Care however Mr. Glanville should not see; who as soon as he quitted him went again to Arabella's Apartment, in order to prevail upon his Father and Sister to leave her a little to herself, for he dreaded lest some more Instances of her Extravagance would put it in∣to his Father's Head, that she was really out of her Senses.

Well, Sir, said Arabella upon his Entrance, you have I suppose, given your Rival his Li∣berty. I assure you this Generosity is highly agreeable to me—And herein you imitate the noble Artamenes, who upon a like Occasion, acted as you have done. For when Fortune

had put the Ravisher of Mandana in his Power, and he became the Vanquisher of his Rival, who endeavour'd by Violence to possess that di∣vine Princess; this truly generous Hero relin∣quish'd the Right he had of disposing of his Pri∣soner, and instead of sacrificing his Life to his just and reasonable Vengeance, he gave a Proof of his admirable Virtue and Clemency by dis∣missing him in Safety, as you have done. How∣ever, added she, I hope you have made him swear upon your Sword, that he will never make a second Attempt upon my Liberty. I perceive, pursued she, seeing Mr. Glanville con∣tinued silent, with his Eyes bent on the Ground, for indeed he was asham'd to look up; that you would willingly avoid the Praise due to the heroick Action you have just perform'd— Nay, I suppose you are resolv'd to keep it secret if possible; yet I must tell you, that you will not escape the Glory due to it. Glory is as necessarily the Result of a virtuous Action, as Light is an Effect of the Sun which causeth it, and has no Dependence on any other Cause; since a virtuous Action continues still the same, tho' it be done without Testimony; and Glory, which is, as one may say born with it, con∣stantly attends it, tho' the Action be not known.

I protest Niece, said Sir Charles, that's very prettily said.

In my Opinion, Sir, pursued Arabella, if any thing can weaken the Glory of a good Action, its the Care a Person takes to make it known: As if one did not do Good for the Sake of Good, but for the Praise that generally follows it. Those then that are govern'd by

so interested a Motive, ought to be consider'd as sordid rather than generous Persons; who making a Kind of Traffick between Virtue and Glory, barter just so much of the one for the other and expect like other Merchants, to make Advantage by the Exchange.

Mr. Glanville, who was charm'd into an Ex∣tacy at this sensible Speech of Arabella's, forgot in an Instant all her Absurdities. He did not fail to express his Admiration of her Under∣standing in Terms that brought a Blush into her fair Face, and oblig'd her to lay her Com∣mands upon him to cease his excessive Com∣mendations. Then making a Sign to them to leave her alone, Mr. Glanville who understood her, took his Father and Sister down Stairs, leaving Arabella with her faithful Lucy, whom she immediately commanded to give her a Re∣lation of what had happen'd to her from the Time of her swooning till she recover'd.

CHAP. XIV.

A Dialogue between Arabella and Lucy, in which the latter seems to have the Advantage.

WHY, Madam, said Lucy, all I can tell your Ladyship is, that we were all ex∣cessively frighted, to be sure, when you faint∣ed, especially myself; and that we did what we could to recover you—And so accordingly your Ladyship did recover.

What's this to the Purpose, said Arabella, perceiving she stop'd here? I know that I faint∣ed, and 'tis also very plain that I recover'd again—I ask you what happen'd to me in the intermediate Time between my Fainting and Recovery. Give me a faithful Relation of all the Accidents, to which by my Fainting I am quite a Stranger; and which no doubt, are very considerable—

Indeed, Madam, replied Lucy, I have given your Ladyship a faithful Relation of all I can remember.

When, resum'd Arabella surpiz'd?—

This Moment, Madam, said Lucy.

Why, sure thou dream'st Wench, replied she, Hast thou told me how I was seiz'd and carry'd off? How I was rescu'd again? And—

No, indeed, Madam, interrupted Lucy, I don't dream; I never told your Ladyship that you was carry'd off.

Well, said Arabella, and why dost thou not satisfy my Curiosity? Is it not fit I should be acquainted with such a momentous Part of my History?

I can't indeed, and please your Ladyship, said Lucy.

What, can'st thou not, said Arabella, en∣rag'd at her Stupidity, as she thought it.

Why, Madam, said Lucy sobbing, I can't make a History of nothing.

Of nothing, Wench, resum'd Arabella, in a greater Rage than before: Dost thou call an Adventure to which thou was a Witness, and borest haply so great a Share in, nothing?—An Adventure which hereafter will make a consi∣derable

Figure in the Relation of my Life, dost thou look upon as trisling and of no Conse∣quence?

No, indeed I don't, Madam, said Lucy.

Why then, pursued Arabella, dost thou wil∣fully neglect to relate it? Suppose, as there is nothing more likely, thou wert commanded by some Persons of considerable Quality, or haply some great Princes and Princesses, to recount the Adventures of my Life, would'st thou omit a Circumstance of so much Moment?

No indeed, Madam, said Lucy.

I am glad to hear thou art so discreet, said Arabella; and pray do me the Favour to relate this Adventure to me, as thou would'st do to those Princes and Princesses, if thou wert com∣manded.

Here, Arabella making a full Stop, fix'd her Eyes upon her Woman, expecting every Mo∣ment she would begin the desir'd Narrative— But finding she continu'd silent longer than she thought was necessary for recalling the several Circumstances of the Story into her Mind,

I find, said she, it will be necessary to cau∣tion you against making your Audience wait too long for your Relation; it looks as if you was to make a studied Speech, not a simple Relation of Facts, which ought to be free from all Af∣fectation of Labour and Art; and be told with that graceful Negligence which is so becoming to Truth.

This I thought proper to tell you, added she, that you may not fall into that Mistake when you are called upon to relate my Adventures— Well, now if you please to begin—,

What, pray, Madam, said Lucy?

What, repeated Arabella? Why, the Ad∣ventures which happen'd to me so lately. Re∣late to me every Circumstance of my being carried away, and how my Deliverance was ef∣fected by my Cousin.

Indeed, Madam, said Lucy, I know nothing about your Ladyship's being carried away. All I know is—

Begone, cried Arabella losing all Patience at her Obstinacy, get out of my Presence this Moment. Wretch, unworthy of my Confi∣dence and Favour, thy Treason is too manifest, thou art brib'd by that presumptuous Man to conceal all the Circumstances of his Attempt from my Knowleddge, to the End that I may not have a full Conviction of his Guilt.

Lucy, who never saw her Lady so much of∣fended before, and knew not the Occasion of it, burst into Tears; which so affected the tender Heart of Arabella, that losing insensibly all her Anger, she told her with a Voice soft∣en'd to a Tone of the utmost Sweetness and Condescension, that provided she would con∣fess how far she had been prevail'd upon by his rich Presents, to forget her Duty, she would pardon and receive her again into Favour—

Speak, added she, and be not afraid after this Promise, to let me know what Mr. Tinsel re∣quir'd of thee, and what were the Gifts with which he purchas'd thy Services: doubtless, he presented thee with Jewels of a considerable Value—

Since your Ladyship, said Lucy sobbing, has promis'd not to be angry, I don't care if I do

tell your Ladyship what he gave me. He gave me this half Guinea, Madam, indeed he did; but for all that, when he would come into your Chamber I struggled with him, and cry'd out, for fear he should carry your Ladyship away—

Arabella, lost in Astonishment and Shame at hearing of so inconsiderable a Present made to her Woman, the like of which not one of her Romances could furnish her, order'd her im∣mediately to withdraw, not being willing she should observe the Confusion this strange Bribe had given her.

After she had been gone some Time, she en∣deavour'd to compose her Looks, and went down to the Dining-Room, where Sir Charles and his Son and Daughter had been engag'd in a Conversation concerning her, the Particulars of which may be found in the first Chapter of the next Book.

The End of the Seventh BOOK.