108

IJKATH S DOINGS.

you've been out of sight ever so long because youwas not fit to be seen, as one may say; but nowthat you are more beautifuller than ever, by thesame rule you should go ten times as much—dopray, my lady, begin directly—ah! I knowswhat I know. Miss Somerville may look twiceere she catches my lord, if so be he sees you inthis here plume; cold broth is soon warm, theysay."

Could it be that this vulgar nonsense—thesenseless tirade of low flattery and thoughtlessstimulation to error—could affect the mind of thehigh-born and highly educated Lady Sophia?Alas! yes—a slight spark will ignite dormant va-nity, and the love of momentary triumph surpassthe more generous wish of giving happiness toothers in a sphere distinct from our own.

The new dress was tried on; its effects extolledby the maid, and admitted by the lady, who re-membered to have read or heard of some beautywhose charms were always most striking whenshe first appeared after a temporary confinement.

warn