This eBook was produced by Jonathan Ingram, Josephine Paolucci and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. BARFORD ABBEY, A NOVEL: IN A SERIES of LETTERS. IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I. LONDON: Printed for T. CADELL, (Successor to Mr. MILLAR) in the Strand; and J. PAYNE, in Pasternoster-Row. MDCCLXVIII. BARFORD ABBEY. LETTER I. Lady MARY SUTTON, at the German Spaw, to Miss WARLEY, in England. How distressing, how heart-rending, is my dear Fanny's mournful detail!--It lies before me; I weep over it!--I weep not for the departed saint: no; it is for you, myself, for all who have experienced her god-like virtues!--Was she not an honour to her sex? Did she not merit rewards too great for this world to bestow?--Could the world repay her innocence, her piety, her resignation? Wipe away, my best love, the mark of sorrow from your cheek. Perhaps she may be permitted to look down: if so, will she smile on those that grieve at her entering into the fullness of joy?--Here a sudden death cannot be called dreadful. A life like hers wanted not the admonitions of a sick-bed;--her bosom accounts always clear, always ready for inspection, day by day were they held up to the throne of mercy.--Apply those beautiful lines in the Spectator to her; lines you have so often admir'd.--How silent thy passage; how private thy journey; how glorious thy end! Many have I known more famous, some more knowing, not one so innocent.--Hope is a noble support to the drooping head of sorrow.--Though a deceiver, court her, I counsel you;--she leads to happiness;--we shall bless her deceptions:--baffling our enjoyments here, she teaches us to look up where every thing is permanent, even bliss most exquisite. Mr. Whitmore you never knew, otherwise would have wonder'd how his amiable wife loiter'd so long behind.--Often she has wish'd to be reunited to him, but ever avoided the subject in your presence. Keep not from me her rich bequest:--_rich_ indeed,--her most valuable treasure.--That I could fold you to my arms!--But hear me at a distance;--hear me call you my beloved daughter,--and suppose what my transports will be when I embrace an only child:--yes, you are mine, till I deliver you up to a superior affection. Lay aside, I conjure you, your fears of crossing the sea.--Mr. and Mrs. Smith intend spending part of this winter at Montpelier: trust yourself with them; I shall be there to receive you at the Hôtel de Spence. The season for the Spaw is almost at an end. My physicians forbid my return to England till next autumn, else I would fly to comfort,--to console my dearest Fanny,--We shall be happy together in France:--I can love you the same in all places. My banker has orders to remit you three hundred pounds;--but your power is unlimited; it is impossible to say, my dear, how much I am in your debt.--I have wrote my housekeeper to get every thing ready for your reception:--consider her, and all my other servants, as your own.--I shall be much disappointed if you do not move to the Lodge immediately.--You shall not,--must not,--continue in a house where every thing in and about it reminds you of so great a loss.--Miss West, Miss Gardner, Miss Conway, will, at my request, accompany you thither.--The Menagerie,--plantations, and other places of amusement, will naturally draw them out;--you will follow mechanically, and by that means be kept from indulging melancholy.--Go an-airing every day, unless you intend I shall find my horses unfit for service:--why have you let them live so long idle? I revere honest Jenkings--he is faithful,--he will assist you with his advice on all occasions.--Can there be a better resource to fly to, than a heart governed by principles of honour and humanity? Write, my dear, to Mrs. Smith, and let me know if the time is fixed for their coming over.--Say you will comply with the request my heart is so much set on;--say you will be one of the party. My health and spirits are better:--the latter I support for your sake;--who else do I live for?--Endeavour to do the same, not only for me, but _others_, that one day will be as dear to you as you are to Your truly affectionate, M. SUTTON. LETTER II. Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. _Barford Abbey_. BARFORD ABBEY! _Yes_, my dearest Lady,--I date from Barford Abbey: a house I little thought ever to have seen, when I have listened hours to a description of it from Mr. Jenkings.--What are houses,--what palaces, in competition with _that_ honour, _that_ satisfaction, I received by your Ladyship's last letter!--The honour all must acknowledge;--the satisfaction is not on the surface,--_it centers in the heart_.--I feel too much to express any thing.--One moment an orphan; next the adopted child of Lady Mary Sutton.--What are titles, except ennobled by virtue! _That_ only makes a coronet fit graceful on the head;--_that_ only is the true ornament of greatness. Pardon my disobedience.--Can there be a stronger command than your request?--But, my Lady, I must have died,--my life _must_ have been the sacrifice, had I gone to the Lodge.--The windows opposite, the windows of that little mansion where I spent nineteen happy years with my angelic benefactress,--could it be borne?--Your Ladyship's absence too;--what an aggravation;--The young ladies you kindly propose for my companions, though very amiable, could not have shut my eyes, or deaden'd my other senses. Now let me account for being at Barford Abbey.--Was Mr. Jenkings my father, I think I could not love him more; yet when he press'd me to return with him to Hampshire, I was doubtful whether to consent, till your Ladyship's approbation of him was confirmed in so particular a manner.--His son an only one;--the fine fortune he must possess;--these were objections not only of _mine_, but, I believe, of my dear, dear--Oh! my Lady, I cannot yet write her name.--Often has she check'd Mr. Jenkings, when he has solicited to take me home with him:--her very looks spoke she had something to fear from such a visit.--She loved me;--the dear angel loved me with maternal affection, but her partiality never took place of noble, generous sentiments.--Young people, she has frequently said, are, by a strict intimacy, endeared to each other. This, I doubt not, was her motive for keeping me at a distance.--She well knew my poor expectations were ill suited to his large ones.--I know what was her opinion, and will steadily adhere to it. Edmund, to do him common justice, is a desirable youth:--such a one as I can admire his good qualities, without another with than to imitate them.--Monday, the tenth, I took my leave of Hillford Down, and, after a melancholy journey, arrived Tuesday evening at Mr. Jenkings's.--Nothing did I enjoy on the road;--in spight of my endeavours, tears stream'd from my eyes incessantly;--even the fine prospects that courted attention, pass'd unnotic'd.--My good conductor strove to draw me off from gloomy subjects, but in vain, till we came within a few miles of his house; then of a sudden I felt a serenity, which, for some time, has been a stranger to my breast;--a serenity I cannot account for. _Mrs. Jenkings!_--never shall I forget her humanity. She flew to the chaise the instant it stopp'd, receiv'd me with open arms, and conducted me to the parlour, pouring out ten thousand welcomes, intermingled with fond embraces.--She is, I perceive, one of those worthy creatures, who make it a point to consider their husbands friends as their own; in my opinion, the highest mark of conjugal happiness. Plac'd in a great chair next the fire, every one was busied in something or other for my refreshment.--One soul,--one voice,--one manner, to be seen in the father,--mother,--son:--they look not on each other but with a smile of secret satisfaction. _To me_ their hearts speak the same expressive language;--their house,--their dress,--their words, plainly elegant.--Envy never stops at such a dwelling;--nothing there is fit for her service:--no pomp,--no grandeur,--no ostentation.--I slept sweetly the whole night;--sweetly!--not one disagreeable idea intruded on my slumbers. Coming down in the morning, I found breakfast on the table, linen white as snow, a large fire,--every thing that speaks cleanliness, content, and plenty.--The first thing in a house which attracts my notice is the fire;--I conclude from that, if the hearts of the inhabitants are warm or cold.--Our conversation was interesting;--it might have lasted, for aught I know, till dinner, had it not been interrupted by the entrance of Sir James and Lady Powis.--I knew Mr. Jenkings was their steward, but never expected they came to his house with such easy freedom.--We arose as they entered:--I was surprised to see Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings appear confused;--in my opinion, their visitors accosted them more like _equals_ than _dependants_. Your Ladyship cannot imagine how greatly I was prepossessed in their favour even before they spoke.--In their manner was something that struck me excessively;--few--very few--can express the nameless beauties of grace,--never to be seen but in a carriage sweetly humble. Lady Powis seated herself opposite to me.--We called, said she, addressing Mr. Jenkings, to inquire what was become of you, fearing your Oxfordshire friends had stolen you from us;--but you have made up for your long absence, if this is the young lady, bowing to me, your wife told us was to return with you.--A politeness so unexpected,--so deliver'd,--visibly affected me:--I sat silent, listening for the reply Mr. Jenkings would make. Pardon me, my Lady! pardon me, Miss Warley! said the good man,--I am a stranger to punctilio;--I see my error:--I should have acquainted your Ladyship before with the name of this dear young Lady; I should have said she is an honour to her friends.--Need I tell Miss Warley, Sir James and Lady Powis are present:--I hope the deportment of their _servant_ has confirmed it;--I hope it has. Sir James kindly took his hand, and, turning to me, said, Don't believe him, Madam, he is not our servant;--he has been our _friend_ forty years; we flatter ourselves he deems not _that_ servitude. Not your _servant!_--not your _dependant!_--not your _servant_, Sir James!--and was running on when her Ladyship interrupted him. Don't make me angry, Jenkings;--don't pain me;--hear the favour I have to ask, and be my advocate:--it is with Miss Warley I want you to be my advocate.--Then addressing herself to me, Will you, Madam, give me the pleasure of your company often at the Abbey?--I mean, will you come there as if it was your home?--Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings have comforts, I have not,--at least that I can enjoy.--Here she sigh'd deeply;--so deep, that I declare it pierced through my heart;--I felt as if turn'd into stone;--what I suppose I was a true emblem of.--The silent friends that trickled down my cheeks brought me back from that inanimate state,--and I found myself in the embraces of Lady Powis, tenderly affectionate, as when in the arms of Mrs. Whitmore.--Judge not, Madam, said I, from my present stupidity, that I am so wanting in my head or heart, to be insensible of this undeserv'd goodness.--With Mr. and Mrs. Jenkings's permission, I am devoted to your Ladyship's service.--_Our_ approbation! Miss Warley, return'd the former;--_yes, that_ you have:--her Ladyship cannot conceive how happy she has made us.--Sir James seconded his Lady with a warmth perfectly condescending:--no excuse would be taken; I must spend the next day at the Abbey; their coach was to attend me. Our amiable guests did not move till summoned by the dinner-bell, which is plainly to be heard there.--I thought I should have shed tears to see them going.--I long'd to walk part of the way, but was afraid to propose it, lest I should appear presumptuous.--Her Ladyship perceiv'd my inclinations,--look'd delighted,--and requested my company; on which Mr. Jenkings offer'd his service to escort me back. How was I surpris'd at ascending the hill!--My feet seem'd leading me to the first garden--the sweet abode of innocence!--Ten thousand beauties broke on my sight;--ten thousand pleasures, before unknown, danced through my heart.--Behold me on the summit;--behold me full of surprise,--full of admiration!--How enchanting the park! how clear the river that winds through it!--What taste,--what elegance, in the plantations!--How charmingly are Nature's beauties rang'd by art!--The trees,--the shrubs,--the flowers,--hold up their heads, as if proud of the spot they grow on!--Then the noble old structure,--the magnificent mansion of this ancient family, how does it fire the beholder with veneration and delight! The very walls seem'd to speak; at least there was something that inform'd _me_, native dignity, and virtues hereditary, dwelt within them. The sight of a chaise and four, standing at the entrance, hurried me from the charming pair of this paradise, after many good days ecchoed to me, and thanks respectful return'd them by the same messenger. Mr. Jenkings, in our return, entertain'd me with an account of the family for a century past. A few foibles excepted in the character of Sir James, I find he possesses all the good qualities of his ancestors. Nothing could be more pleasing than the encomiums bestow'd on Lady Powis; but she is not exempt from trouble: the _good_ and the _bad_ the _great_ and the _little_, at some time or other, feel Misfortune's touch. Happy such a rod hangs over us! Were we to glide on smoothly, our affections would be fixed here, and here only. I could love Lady Powis with a warmth not to be express'd;--but--forgive me, my dear lady--I pine to know why _your_ intimacy was interrupted.--Of _Lady Mary's_ steadiness and integrity I am convinc'd;--of _Lady Powis_ I have had only a transitory view.--Heaven forbid she should be like such people as from my heart I despise, whose regards are agueish! Appearances promise the reverse;--but what is appearance? For the generality a mere cheat, a gaudy curtain. Pardon me, dear Lady Powis--I am distress'd,--I am perplex'd; but I do not think ill of you;--indeed I cannot,--unless I find--_No_, I cannot find it neither;--something tells me _Lady Mary_, my dear honour'd Lady Mary, will acquit you. We were receiv'd by Mrs. Jenkings, at our return, with a chearful countenance, and conducted to the dining-parlour, where, during our comfortable, meal, nothing was talk'd of but Sir James and Lady Powis:--the kind notice taken of your Fanny mentioned with transport. Thus honour'd,--thus belov'd,--dare I repine?--Why look on past enjoyments with such a wistful eye!--Mrs. Whitmore, my dear maternal Mrs. Whitmore, cannot be recall'd!--Strange perversenss!--why let that which would give me pleasure fleet away!--why pursue that which I cannot overtake!--No gratitude to heaven!--Gratitude to you, my dearest Lady, shall conquer this perverseness;--even now my heart overflows like a swoln river. Good night, good night, dear Madam; I am going to repose on the very bed where, for many years, rested the most deserving of men!--The housekeeper has been relating many of his virtues;--so many, that I long to see him, _though only in a dream_. Was it not before Mr. Powis went abroad, that your ladyship visited at the Abbey?--Yet, if so, I think I should have heard you mention him.--Merit like his could never pass unnotic'd in a breast so similar--Here I drop my pen, lest I grow impertinent.--Once again, good night,--my more than parent:--to-morrow, at an early hour, I will begin the recital to your Ladyship of this day's transactions--I go to implore every blessing on your head, the only return that can be offer'd by F. WARLEY. LETTER III. Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON, in continuation. _Barford Abbey_. I think I have told your Ladyship, I was to be honour'd with the coach to convey me to the Abbey.--About half an hour after one it arriv'd, when a card was deliver'd me from Lady Powis, to desire my friends would not be uneasy, if I did not return early in the evening, as she hop'd for an agreeable party at whist, Lord Darcey being at the Abbey. Mrs. Jenkings informed me, his Lordship was a ward of Sir James's just of age;--his estate genteel, not large;--his education liberal,--his person fine,--his temper remarkably good.--Sir James, said she, is for ever preaching lessons to him, that he must marry _prudently_;--which is, that he must never marry without an immense fortune.--Ah! Miss Warley, this same love of money has serv'd to make poor Lady Powis very unhappy. Sir James's greatest fault is covetousness;--but who is without fault?--Lord Darcey was a lovely youth, continued she, when he went abroad; I long to see if he is alter'd by travelling.--Edmund and his Lordship were school-fellows:--how my son will be overjoy'd to hear he is at the Abbey!--I detain you, Miss Warley, or could talk for ever of Lord Darcey! Do go, my dear, the family will expect you.--Promise, said I, taking her hand,--_promise_ you will not sit up late on my account.--She answer'd nothing, but pressing me to her bosom, seem'd to tell me her heart was full of affection. The old coachman, as we drove up the lawn, eyed me attentively, saying to the footman, _It will be so, John, you may depend upon it_.--John answer'd only by a shrug.--What either meant, I shall not pretend to divine.--As I came near the house, I met Mr. Jenkings almost out of breath, and, pulling the string, he came to the coach-side. I was hurrying home, my dear young Lady, said he, to--to--to--Now faith I'm afraid you'll be angry. Angry with you, Sir!--angry with you, Mr. Jenkings!--is it possible! Then, to be plain, Madam, I was hurrying home, to request you would wear no cap.--Never shall I forget how pretty you look'd, when I saw you without one!--Of all things, I would _this day_ wish you might look your best. To satisfy him I had taken some little pains in honour to the family, I let back the hood of my cloke.--He examin'd the manner in which my hair was dress'd, and smiled his approbation;--which _smile_, though only seen in the eyes, was more expressive than a contraction of all the other features.--Wishing me a happy day, he bid the coachman drive on. Coming within sight of the Abbey, my heart beat as if breaking from confinement.--I was oblig'd to call it to a severe trial,--to ask, Why this insurrection,--whence these tumults?--My monitor reply'd, Beware of self-sufficiency,--beware of its mortifying consequences.-- How seasonable this warning against the worst of foes!--a foe which I too much fear was stealing on me imperceptibly,--else why did I not before feel those sensations?--Could I receive greater honour than has been conferr'd on me by the noblest mind on earth!--by _Lady Mary?_--Could I behold greater splendor than _Lady Mary_ is possess'd of!--What affection in another can I ever hope for like _Lady Mary's!_--Thus was I arguing with myself, when the coach-door open'd, and a servant conducted me to the drawing-room,--where, I was receiv'd by Sir James and Lady Powis with an air of polite tenderness;--a kind of unreserve, that not only supports the timid mind, but dignifies every word,--every action,--and gives to education and address their highest polish. Lord Darcey was sitting in the window, a book in his hand;--he came forward as Sir James introduc'd me, who said, _Now_, my Lord, the company of _this_ young Lady will make your Lordship's time pass more agreeably, than it could have done in the conversation of two old people.--My spirits were flutter'd; I really don't recollect his reply; only that it shew'd him master of the great art, to make every one pleas'd with themselves. Shall I tell you, my dear Lady, what are my thoughts of _this_ Lord Darcey?--To confess then, though his person is amazingly elegant, his manners are still more engaging.--This I look upon to be the natural consequence of a mind illumin'd with uncommon understanding, sweetness, and refinement. A short time before dinner the chaplain made his appearance,--a venerable old man, with hair white as snow:--what renders his figure to be completely venerated, is the loss of sight.--Her Ladyship rising from her seat, led me towards him: Mr. Watson, said she, I am going to introduce a lady whose _brightest charms_ will soon be visible to you.--The best man in the world! whisper'd she, putting my hand in his;--which hand I could not avoid putting to my lips.--_Thank_ you, Miss Warley, said her Ladyship, _we all_ revere this gentleman.--Mr. Watson was affected, some drops stole from their dark prisons, and he bless'd me as if I had been his daughter:--my pleasure was exquisite,--it seem'd as if I had receiv'd the benediction of an angel. Our subjects turn'd more on the celestial than the terrestrial, till dinner was serv'd up,--when I found that good _knight_ which has been so long banish'd to the side-board, replac'd in his original station. How different _this table_ from many others! where genteel sprightly conversations are shut out; _where_ such as cannot feast their senses on the genius of a _cook_, must rise unsatisfied. A similitude of manners between your _Ladyship_ and _Lady Powis_, particularly in doing the honours of the table, struck me so much, that I once or twice call'd her _Lady Mary_.--Pray, Miss Warley, ask'd she, who is this Lady Mary? What could occasion her confusion!--what could occasion the confusion of Sir James!--Never did I see any thing equal it, when I said it was Lady Mary Sutton!--The significant looks that were interchang'd, spoke some mystery;--a mystery it would be presumption in me to dive after. Her Ladyship made no reply,--Sir James was eager to vary the subject,--and the conversation became general. Though autumn is far advanc'd, every thing here wears the face of spring.--The afternoon being remarkably fine Lady Powis, Lord Darcey, and myself, strolled out amongst the sweets.--We walk'd a considerable time; his Lordship was all gaiety, talk'd with raptures of the improvements; declar'd every thing he had seen abroad fell short of this delightful spot; and _now_, my dear Lady Powis, added he, with an air of gallantry, I can see _nothing_ wanting. _Nothing_ wanting! return'd her Ladyship, sighing:--Ah! my Lord, _you_ are not a parent!--you feel nothing of a parent's woe!--_you_ do not hourly regret the absence of a beloved and only son! Don't look serious, my dear Lord, seeing him somewhat abash'd, you have hitherto tenderly loved me.--Perhaps I had a mind to augment your affection, by bringing to your recollection I was not happy.--His Lordship made no reply, but, taking her hand, lifted it respectfully to his lips. Mr. Jenkings is this moment coming up the lawn. I see him from window;--excuse me, my dear Lady, whilst I step to ask him how he does. I have been accounting to Mr. Jenkings for not coming home last night. Good man! every mark of favour I receive, enlightens _his countenance_.--The reasons I have given him, I shall now proceed to give your Ladyship. I said we were walking;--I have said the conversation was interesting;--but I have not said it was interrupted by Sir James and Mr. Watson, who join'd us just as Lord Darcey had quitted the hand of Lady Powis.--A visit was propos'd to the Dairy-house, which is about a mile from the Abbey.--In our way thither, I was full of curiosity, full of inquiries about the neighbourhood, and whose seats _such_ and _such_ were, that enrich'd adjacent hills?--The neighbourhood, reply'd her Ladyship, is in general polite and hospitable.--_Yes_, said Sir James, and more smart young men, _Miss Warley_, than are to be met with in _every_ county.--Yonder, continued he, live Mr. and Mrs. Finch,--very rich,--very prudent, and very worthy;--they have one son, a discreet lad, who seems to promise he will inherit their good qualities. _That_ which you see so surrounded with woods, is Sir Thomas Slater's, a _batchelor_ of fifty-five; and, let me tell you, fair Lady, the pursuit of _every_ girl in the neighbourhood;--his estate a clear nine thousand a-year, and--Hold, hold, interrupted Lord Darcey, in compassion to _us_ young fellows, say no more of this _redoubtable_ batchelor. Well then, continued Sir James, since my Lord _will_ have it so,--let me draw your eye, Miss Warley, from Sir Thomas Slater's, and fix it on Lord Allen's: Observe the situation!--Nothing can be more beautiful, the mind of its owner excepted. _That_ house on the left is Mr. Winter's.--Chance!--_Strange chance!_--has just put him in possession of an immense fortune, with which he is going to purchase a _coronet_ for his daughter.--The fellow does not know what to do with his _money_, and has at last found an _ape_ of quality, that will take _it_ off his hands. In this manner was Sir James characterising his neighbours, when a sudden and violent storm descended.--Half a mile from the _Dairy-house_, the rain fell in such torrents, that we were wet through, before a friendly oak offer'd us its shelter.--Never shall I forget my own or Lord Darcey's figure: he stripp'd himself of his coat, and would have thrown it over Lady Powis. Her Ladyship absolutely refusing it, her cloak being thick, mine the reverse, he forc'd it upon me. Sir James a assisting to put my arms into the sleeves.--Nor was I yet enough of the amazon:--they even compell'd me to exchange my hat for his, lapping it, about my ears.--What a strange _metamorphose!_--I cannot think of it without laughing!--To complete the scene, no exchange could be made, till we reach'd the Abbey.--In this droll situation, we waited for the coach; and getting, in, streaming from head to toe, it more resembled a bathing machine, than any other vehicle. A gentleman, who, after a chace of ten hours, had taken shelter under the roof of Sir James, was, at our return, stamping up and down, the vestibule, disappointed both in his sport and dinner, shew'd an aspect cloudy as the heavens.--My mortification was scarce supportable, when I heard him roar out, in a voice like thunder, _What the devil have we here?_--I sprang to the top of the stairs in a moment,--there stopp'd to fetch breath; and again the same person, who had so genteelly accosted me, said to Lord Darcey,--_Great_ improvements, upon my soul!--_You_ are return'd a mighty pretty _Miss_.--What, is _this_ the newest dress at Turin?--I heard no more; her Ladyship's woman came and shew'd me to an apartment,--bringing from her Lady's wardrobe a chints négligée, and a suit of flower'd muslin; in which I was soon equipp'd. Lady Powis sent to desire I would come to her dressing room; and, embracing me as I entered, said, with, an air of charming freedom, If you are not hurt, my dear, by our little excursion, I shall be quite in spirits this evening. I am only hurt by your Ladyship's goodness. Indeed, return'd she, I have not a close heart, but no one ever found so quick a passage to it as yourself.--Oh! Lady Mary, _this_ is surely a _heart_ like yours!--A _heart_ like Mrs. Whitmore's!--Was you not surpris'd, _my dear_, continued her Ladyship, to be so accosted by the gentleman below?--Take no notice of what is said by Mr. Morgan.--that is his name;--he means well, and never goes into any person's house, but where his oddities are indulg'd.--I am particularly civil to him; he was an old school-fellow of Sir James's, one whose purse was always open to him.--Sir James, Miss Warley, was rather addicted to extravagance in the beginning of his life;--_that_, in some respects, is revers'd latterly.--I have been a sufferer,--yet is he a tender generous husband. One day you shall know more.--I _had_ a son, Miss Warley--Here Sir James interrupted her.--I come to tell you, said he, that Lord Darcey and myself are impatient for our tea. O fie! Sir James, return'd Lady Powis, talk of impatience before an unmarried Lady!--If you go on at this rate, you will frighten her from any connection with your sex.--Not at all,--not at all, said Sir James; you take us for better for worse.--See there, Miss Warley smiles.--I warrant she does not think my _impatience_ unseasonable.--I was going to reply, but effectually stopped by her Ladyship, who said, taking my hand, Come, my dear, let us go down.--I am fond of finding excuses for Sir James; we will suppose it was not he who was impatient:--we will suppose the _impatience_ to be Lord Darcey's. Whilst regaling ourselves at the tea table, Mr. Morgan was in the dining-parlour, brightening up his features by the assitance of the cook and butler.--We were congratulating each other on the difference of our present and late situation, declaring there was nothing to regret, when Mr. Morgan enter'd.--Regret! cry'd he,--what do you regret?--Not, I hope, that I have made a good dinner on a cold sirloin and pickled oysters?--Indeed I do, said Lady Powis:--Had I thought you so poor a caterer, I should have taken the office on myself.--Faith then, reply'd he, you might have eat it yourself:--Forty years, my good Lady, I have made this house my home, and did I ever suffer you to direct _what_, or _when_, I should eat?-- Sir James laugh'd aloud; so did her Ladyship:--I was inclin'd to do the same,--but afraid what next he would say;--However, this caution did not screen me from particular notice. What the duce have I here! said he, taking one of my hands,--a snow-ball by the colour, and feeling? and down he dropp'd it by the side of Lord Darcey's, which rested on the table. I was never more confounded. You are not angry, my pretty Lady, continued he:--we shall know one another better;--but if you displease me,--I shall thunder.--I keep all in subjection, except the _muleish kind_, making a low bow to Sir James. Saying this, he went in pursuit of Mr. Watson.--They soon re-enter'd together; a card-table was produc'd; and we sat down at it, whilst they solac'd themselves by a good fire. My attention was frequently taken from the cards, to observe how it was possible such opposites as Mr. Watson and Mr. Morgan cou'd be entertain'd by one another's conversation.--Never saw I any two seemingly more happy!--The chearfulness of the former augmented;--the voice of the latter at least three notes lower.--This has been since explain'd to me by Lady Powis.--Mr. Morgan, she says, notwithstanding his rough appearance, is of a nature so compassionate, that, to people defective in person or fortune, he is the gentlest creature breathing. Our party broke up at nine.--I sat half an hour after supper, then propos'd returning to Mr. Jenkings's.--Lady Powis would not hear me on this subject--I must stay that night at the Abbey:--venturing out such weather would hazard my health.--So said Sir James; so said Lord Darcey.--As for Mr. Morgan, he swore, Was he the former, his horses should not stir out for fifty pieces, unless, said he, Sir James chooses to be a fellow-sufferer with Lord Allen, who I have led such a chace this day, that he was forced to leave poor Snip on the forest.--Saying which, he threw himself back in the chair, and fell into a sound sleep.--About eleven I retir'd to my chamber;--a message first being sent to Mr. Jenkings.--Instead of going immediately to bed, I sat down and indulg'd myself with the satisfaction of writing to my beloved Lady Mary.--This morning I got up early to finish my packet; and though I have spent half an hour with Mr. Jenkings, shall close it before her Ladyship is stirring. Your commands, my dear Lady, are executed.--I have wrote Mrs. Smith; and as soon as I receive her answer, shall, with a joyful heart, with impatient fondness, prepare to throw at your Ladyship's feet, Your much honour'd, and affectionate, F. WARLEY. LETTER IV. Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. _Barford Abbey_. Prepare your ten pieces, George!--Upon my honour, I was at Barford Abbey a quarter before three, notwithstanding a detention on the road by Lord Michell and Flecher, driving on Jehu for Bath, in his Lordship's phaeton and fix.--You have seen them before this,--and, I suppose, know their errand.--The girl is an egregious fool, that is certain.--I warrant there are a hundred bets depending.--I ask'd what he intended doing with her if he succeeded?--_Do_ with her! said his Lordship; why, she is not more than eighteen; let her go to school: faith, Flecher, that's my advice.--_Let her go_ to the devil after I am once sure of her, return'd the lover; and, whipping up the horses; drove away like lightning. Be serious--Answer me one serious question,--Is it not possible,--_very_ possible, to have a regard, a _friendship_, for an amiable girl, without endangering her peace or my own?--If I am further involv'd than _friendship_,--the blame is not mine; it will lie at the door of Sir James and Lady Powis.--Talk no more of Lady Elizabeth's smile, or Miss Grevel's hair--Stuff!--meer stuff! nor keep me up after a late evening, to hear your nonsense of Miss Compton's fine neck and shoulders, or Fanny Middleton's eyes.--Come here next week, I will insure you a sight of all those graces in one form. Come, I say, you will be welcome to Sir James and his Lady as myself.--Miss Warley will smile on you.--What other inducement can you want?--Don't be too vain of Miss Warley's smiles; _for know_, she cannot look without them. Who is Miss Warley?--What is Miss Warley?--you ask.--To your first question I can only answer, A visitor at Jenkings's.--To the second,--She is what has been so much sought after in every age, perfect harmony of mind and person.--Such a hand, George-- Already have I been here eight days:--was I to measure time, I should call them hours.--My affairs with Sir James will take up longer in settling than I apprehended.--Come therefore this week or the next, I charge you.--Come as you hope to see Miss Warley. What do you think Sir James said to me the other day?--Was Miss Warley a girl of fortune, I should think her born for you, Darcey.--As that is not the case,--take care of your heart, my Lord.--She will never attempt to drag you into scrapes:--your little favourite robin, that us'd to peck from your hand, has not less guile. No! he will never consent;--I must only think of _friendship_. Lady Powis doats on this paragon of beauty: scarce within their walls,--when she was mention'd with such a just profusion of praises, as fill'd me with impatience.--Lady Powis is a heavenly woman.--You do not laugh;--many would, for supposing any of that sex _heavenly_ after fifty.--The coach is this moment going for Miss Warley;--it waits only for me;--I am often her conductor.--Was _you_ first minister of state,--I the humble suitor whose bread depended on your favour,--not one line more, even to express my wants. Twelve o'clock, at night. Our fair visitor just gone;--just gone home with Edmund.--What an officious fool, to take him in the carriage, and prevent myself from a pleasure I envy him for.--I am not in spirits;--I can write no more;--perhaps the next post:--but I will promise nothing. I am, _&c. &c._ DARCEY. LETTER V. The Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH to LORD DARCEY. _Bath_. Confound your friendships!--_Friendship_ indeed!--What! up head and ears in love, and not know it.--So it is necessary for every woman you think capable of friendship, to have fine eyes, fine hair, a bewitching smile, and a neck delicately turn'd.--Have not I the highest opinion of my cousin Dolly's sincerity?--Do I not think her very capable of _friendship?_--Yet, poor soul, her eyes are planted so deep, it requires good ones to discover she has any.--Such a hand, George!--Such a hand, Darcey!--Why, Lady Dorothy too has hands; I am often enough squeez'd by them:--though hard as a horse's hoof, and the colour of tanned leather, I hold her capable of _friendship_.--Neck she has none,--smile she has none! yet need I the determination of another, to tell me whether my regard for her proceeds from love or _friendship?_--Awake,--Awake, Darcey,--Awake:--Have you any value for your own peace?--have you any for that of Miss Warley's? If so, leave Barford Abbey.--Should you persist in loving her, for love her I know you do?--Should the quiet of such an amiable woman as you describe be at stake? To deal plainly, I will come down and propose the thing myself.--No sword,--no pistol. I mean not for _myself_, but one whose happiness is dear to me as my _own_. Suppose your estate is but two thousand a-year, are you so fond of shew and equipage, to barter real felicity for baubles?--I am angry,--so angry, that it would not grieve me to see you leading to the altar an old hobbling dowager without a tooth.--Be more yourself, And I am yours, MOLESWORTH. LETTER VI Lord DARCEY to the Honourable GEORGE MOLESWORTH. _Barford Abbey_, Angry!--You are really angry!--Well, I too am angry with myself.--I do love Miss Warley;--but why this to you?--Your penetration has already discover'd it.--Yet, O Molesworth! such insurmountable obstacles:--no declaration can be made,--at least whilst I continue in this neighbourhood. Sir James would rave at my imprudence.--Lady Powis, whatever are her sentiments, must give them up to his opinion.--Inevitably I lose the affection of persons I have sacredly--promised to obey,--sacredly.--Was not my promise given to a dying father?--Miss Warley has no tye; yet, by the duty she observes to Sir James and Lady Powis, you would think her bound by the strongest cords of nature. Scarce a moment from her:--at Jenkings's every morning;--on foot if good weather,--else in the coach for the convenience of bringing her with me.--I am under no constraint:--Sir James and her Ladyship seem not the least suspicious: this I much wonder at, in the former particularly. In my _tête-à-têtes_ with Miss Warley, what think you are our subjects?--Chiefly divinity, history, and geography.--Of these studies she knows more than half the great men who have wrote for ages past.--On a taste for the two latter I once prided myself.--An eager pursuit for the former springs up in my mind, whilst conversing with her, like a plant long hid in the earth, and called out by the appearance of a summer's sun.--This sun must shine at Faulcon Park;--without it all will be dreary:--_yet_ how can I draw it thither?--_Edmund_--but why should I fear _Edmund?_ Will you, or will you not, meet your old friend Finch here next Wednesday?--Be determined in your answer.--I have suspence enough on my hands to be excused from any on your account.--Sir James thinks it unkind you have not called on him since I left England;--hasten therefore to make up matters with the baronet,--Need I say the pleasure I shall have in shaking you by the hand? DARCEY. LETTER VII. The Hon. GEORGE MOLESWORTH to Lord DARCEY. _Bath_. Wednesday next you shall see me,--positively you shall.--Bridgman will be of the party. I propose an immensity of satisfaction from this visit.--Forbid it, heaven! Miss Warley's opposite should again give me a meeting at the Abbey.--After the conversation I am made to expect, how should I be mortified to have my ears eternally dinn'd with catgut work,--painting gauze,--weaving fringes,--and finding out enigmas?--Setting a fine face, Miss Winter is out-done by Fletcher's Nancy.--A-propos, I yesterday saw that very wise girl step into a chaise and wheel off for Scotland, begging and praying we would make the best of it to her mamma.--Not the least hand had I in this affair; but, willing to help out people in distress, at the entreaties of Lord Michell, I waited on the old Lady at her lodging. I found her in a furious plight,--raving at her servants,--packing up her cloaths, and reflecting on her relations who had persuaded her to come to Bath.--When I entered she was kneeling by a huge travelling trunk, stuffing in a green purse at one corner, which I supposed to be full of gold. Where is Nancy?--riling from the ground, and accosting me with looks of fury;--Where is Nancy, Mr. Molesworth? Really, _Madam_, that is a question I cannot positively answer;--but, to be sincere, I believe she is on the road to Scotland. _Believe!_--So you would have me think you are not one of Fletcher's clan.--But, tell him from me, running to the trunk after her purse, and shaking it just at my ear,--_tell him_, he shall never be a penny the better for this. I took my hat, and looked towards the door, as if going. Stop, Mr. Molesworth, (her voice somewhat lowered) why in so great a hurry?--I once thought you my friend. Pray inform me if Nancy was forced away;--or, if me went willingly. You have no right, Madam, after the treatment I have received, to expect an answer; but justice bids me declare her going off seemed a matter of choice. Poor child!--You was certainly trapann'd (and she put a handkerchief to her eyes). I solemnly protest, Madam, I have seen your daughter but twice since she came to Bath.--Last night, when coming from the Rooms, I saw her step into a chaise, followed by Mr. Fletcher.--They beckoned me towards them, whispered the expedition they were going upon, and requested me to break the matter to you, and intercede for their pardon.--My visit has not answered its salutary purpose--I perceive it _has not_. So saying I turned from her,--knowing, by old acquaintance, how I was to play my cards, me being one of those kind of spirits which are never quell'd but by opposition. After fetching me from the door, she promised to hear calmly what I had to say;--and, tho' no orator, I succeeded so well as to gain an assurance, she would see them at their return from Scotland. I left the old Lady in tolerable good humour, and was smiling to myself, recollecting the bout I had passed, when, who should come towards me but Lord Michell,--his countenance full-fraught with curiosity. Well, George!--dear George!--what success in your embassy?--I long to know the fate of honest Fletcher.--Is he to loll in a coach and six?--or, is the coroner's inquest to bring in their verdict Lunacy? A sweet alternative!--_As_ your Lordship's assiduity has shewn the former is the highest pinnacle to which you would wish to lift a friend, I believe your most sanguine hopes are here answered. Is it _so!_--Well, if ever Fletcher offers up a prayer, it ought to be for you, Molesworth. Vastly good, my Lord.--What, before he prays for himself?--_This_ shews your Lordship's _very_ high notions of gratitude. We have high notions of every thing.--Bucks and bloods, as we are call'd,--you may go to the devil before you will find a set of honester fellows. To the _Devil_, my Lord!--That's true, I believe. He was going to reply when the three choice spirits came up, and hurried him, away to the Tuns. A word to _you_, Darcey.--Surely you are never serious in the ridiculous design.--Not offer yourself to Miss Warley, whilst she continues in that neighbourhood?--the very spot on which you ought to secure her,--unless you think all the young fellows who visit at the Abbey are blind, except yourself.--_Why_, you are jealous _already_;--_jealous_ of _Edmund_.--Perhaps _even I_ may become one of your tormentors.--If I like her I shall as certainly tell her _so, as_ that my name is MOLESWORTH. [Here two Letters are omitted, one from Lady MARY to Miss WARLEY,--and one from Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY.] LETTER VIII. Miss WARLEY to Lady MARY SUTTON. From Mr. _Jenkings's_. Ah! my dear Lady, how kind,--how inexpressibly kind, to promise I shall one day know what has put an end to the intimacy between the two Ladies I _so_ much revere. To find your Ladyship has still a high opinion of Lady Powis, has filled me with pleasure.--Fear of the reverse often threw a damp on my heart, whilst receiving the most tender caresses.--You bid me love her!--You say I cannot love her too well!--_This_ is a command my heart springs forward to obey. Unhappy family!--What a loss does it sustain by the absence of Mr. Powis?--_No_, I can never forgive the Lady who has occasioned this source of sorrow.--Why is her name concealed?--But what would it benefit me to come at a knowledge of it? Pity Sir James should rather see such a son _great_ than happy.--Six thousand a year, _yet_ covet a fortune twice as large!--Love of riches makes strange wreck in the human heart. Why did Mr. Powis leave his native country?--The refusal of a Lady with whom he only sought an union in obedience to his father, could not _greatly_ affect him.--Was not such an overture _without_ affection,--_without_ inclination,--a blot in his fair character?--Certainly it was.--Your Ladyship seems to think Sir James only to blame.--I dare not have presumed to offer my opinion, had you not often told me, it betray'd a meanness to hide our real sentiments, when call'd upon to declare them. Lady Powis yesterday obliged me with a sight of several letters from her son.--_I_ am not mistress of a stile like _his_, or your Ladyship would have been spar'd numberless tedious moments.--Such extraordinary deckings are seldom to be met with in common minds. I told Lady Powis, last evening, that I should devote this day to my pen;--so I shall not be sent for;--a favour I am sure to have conferr'd if I am not at the Abbey soon after breakfast.--Lord Darcey is frequently my escort.--I am pleased to see that young nobleman regard Edmund as if of equal rank with himself. Heavens! his Lordship is here!--full-dressed, and just alighted from the coach,--to fetch me, I fear.--I shall know in a moment; Mrs. Jenkings is coming up. Even so.--It vexes me to be thus taken off from my agreeable task;--yet I cannot excuse myself,--her Ladyship is importunate.--She sends me word I _must_ come;--that I _must_ return with Lord Darcey.--Mrs. Finch is accidentally dropp'd in with her son.--I knew the latter was expected to meet two gentlemen from Bath,--one of them an intimate friend of Lord Darcey.--Mrs. Finch is an amiable woman;--it is to her Lady Powis wants to introduce me. _Your Servant, my Lord_.--A very genteel way to hasten me down--impatient, I suppose, to see his friend from Bath.--_Well_, Jenny, tell his Lordship it will be needless to have the horses taken out.--I shall be ready in a quarter of an hour.--Adieu, my dear Lady. Eleven o'clock at night. Every thing has conspired to make this day more than commonly agreeable.--It requires the pen of a Littelton to paint the different graces which shone in conversation.--As no such pen is at hand, will your Ladyship receive from _mine_ a short description of the company at the Abbey? Mrs. Finch is about seven and forty;--her person plain,--her mind lovely,--her bosom fraught with happiness.--She dispenses it promiscuously.--Every smile,--every accent,--conveys it to all around her.--A countenance engagingly open.--Her purse too, I am told, when occasions offer, open as her heart.--How largely is she repaid for her balsamic gifts,--by seeing those virtues early planted in the mind of her son, spring up and shoot in a climate where a blight is almost contagious! Mr. Finch is the most sedate young man I have ever seen;--but his sedateness is temper'd with a _sweetness_ inexpressible;--a certain mildness in the features;--_a mildness_ which, in the countenance of that great commander I saw at Brandon Lodge, appears like _mercy_ sent out from the heart to discover the dwelling of _true courage_.--There is certainly a strong likeness between the Marquis and Lord Darcey;--_so strong_, that when I first beheld his Lordship I was quite struck with surprize. Mr. Molesworth and Mr. Bridgman, the two gentlemen from Bath, are very opposite to each other in person and manner; yet both in a different degree seem to be worthy members of society. Mr. Molesworth, a most entertaining companion,--vastly chearful,--smart at repartee; and, from the character Lord Darcey has given me of him, very sincere. Mr. Bridgman has a good deal the air of a foreigner; attained, I suppose, by his residence some years at the court of ----, in a public character.--Very fit he appears for such an employ.--Sensible,--remarkably polite,--speaks all languages with the same fluency as his own; but then a veil of disagreeable reserve throws a dark shade over those perfections.--_Perhaps_ I am wrong to spy out faults so early;--_perhaps_ to-morrow my opinion may be different.--First prepossessions--Ah! What would I have said of _first prepossessions?_--Is it not to them I owe a thousand blessings?--I, who have nothing to recommend me but being unfortunate. Somthing lies at my heart.--Yet I think I could not sleep in quiet, was I to drop a hint in disfavour of Mr. Jenkings;--it may not be in his _disfavour_ neither:--However, my dear Lady, you shall be the judge, after I have repos'd a few hours. Seven o'clock in the morning. Why should I blame Mr. Jenkings?--Is not Edmund his only son?--his only child?--Is he less my friend for suspecting?--Yes, my Lady, I perceive he does _suspect_.--He is uneasy.--He supposes his son encouraging an improper affection.--I see it in his very looks:--he must think me an artful creature.--This it is that distresses me.--I wish I could hit on a method to set his heart at rest.--If I barely hint a design of leaving the neighbourhood, which I have done once or twice, he bursts into tears, and I am oblig'd to sooth him like a child. How account for this
{'title': 'Barford Abbey, a Novel: In a Series of Letters by Mrs. Gunning', 'source': 'Project Gutenberg', 'lang': 'en'}