MR. VILLARS TO LADY HOWARD

I am grieved, madam, to appear obstinate, and I blush to incur the imputation of selfishness.  My young ward is of an age that happiness is eager to attend—­let her then enjoy it!  I commit her to the protection of your ladyship.  Restore her but to me all innocence as you receive her, and the fondest hope of my heart will be amply gratified.

EVELINA ANVILLE TO MR. VILLARS

We are to go on Monday to a private ball given by Mrs. Stanley, a very fashionable lady of Mrs. Mirvan’s acquaintance.  I am afraid of this ball; for, as you know, I have never danced but at school.  However, Miss Mirvan says there is nothing in it.  Yet I wish it was over.

* * * * *

We passed a most extraordinary evening.  A private ball this was called; but, my dear sir, I believe I saw half the world!

The gentlemen, as they passed and repassed, looked as if they thought we were quite at their disposal, and only waited for the honour of their commands; and they sauntered about in an indolent manner, as if with a view to keep us in suspense.

Presently a gentleman, who seemed about six-and-twenty years old, gaily, but not foppishly dressed, and indeed extremely handsome, with an air of mixed politeness and gallantry, desired to know if I would honour him with my hand.  Well, I bowed, and I am sure I coloured; for indeed I was frightened at the thought of dancing before so many strangers with a stranger.  And so he led me to join in the dance.

He seemed desirous of entering into conversation with me; but I was seized with such panic that I could hardly speak a word.  He appeared surprised at my terror, and, I fear, thought it very strange.

His own conversation was sensible and spirited; his air and address open and noble; his manners gentle, attentive, and infinitely engaging; his person is all elegance, and his countenance the most animated and expressive I have ever seen.  The rank of Lord Orville was his least recommendation.  When he discovered I was totally ignorant of public places and public performers, he ingeniously turned the discourse to the amusements and occupations of the country; but I was unable to go further than a monosyllable in reply, and not even so far as that when I could possibly avoid it.

Tired, ashamed, and mortified, I begged at last to sit down till we returned home.  Lord Orville did me the honour to hand me to the coach, talking all the way of the honour I had done him!  Oh, these fashionable people!

* * * * *

There is no end to the troubles of last night.  I have gathered from Maria Mirvan the most curious dialogue that ever I heard.  Maria was taking some refreshment, and saw Lord Orville advancing for the same purpose himself, when a gay-looking man, Sir Clement Willoughby, I am told, stepped up and cried, “Why, my lord, what have you done with your lovely partner?”