Sir Charles expresses great satisfaction in Mr. Beauchamp’s being arrived before his departure, that he may present to us, himself, a man with whom he is sure we shall all be delighted, and leave him happy in the beloved society which he himself is obliged to quit.

A repining temper, Lucy, would consider only the hardship of meeting a long-absent friend, just to feel the uneasiness of a second parting:  but this man views every thing in a right light.  When his own happiness is not to be attained, he lays it out of his thoughts, and, as I have heretofore observed, rejoices in that of others.  It is a pleasure to see how Sir Charles seems to enjoy the love which Dr. Bartlett expresses for this friend of them both.

Sir Charles addressed himself to me, on several occasions, in so polite, in so tender a manner, that every one told me afterwards, they are sure he loves me.  Dr. Bartlett at the time, as he sat next me, whispered, on the regret expressed by all on losing him so soon—­Ah, madam!—­I know, and pity, my patron’s struggles!—­Struggles, Lucy!  What could the doctor mean by this whisper to me?  But I hope he guesses not at mine!  If he does, would he have whispered his pity of Sir Charles to me?—­Come, Lucy, this is some comfort, however; and I will endeavour to be brave upon it, that I may not, by my weakness, lessen myself in the doctor’s good opinion.

It was agreed for Charlotte, (whose assent was given in these words—­’Do as you will—­or, rather, as my brother will—­What signifies opposing him?’) that the nuptials shall be solemnized, as privately as possible, at St. George’s church.  The company is to drop in at different doors, and with as few attendants as may be.  Lord W——­, the Earl of G——­, and Lady Gertrude, Lord and Lady L——­, Miss Jervois, and your Harriet, are to be present at the ceremony.  I was very earnest to be excused, till Miss Grandison, when we were alone, dropt down on one knee, and held up her hands, to beg me to accompany her.  Mr. Everard Grandison, if he can be found, is to be also there, at Sir Charles’s desire.

Dr. Bartlett, as I before hinted, at her earnest request, is to perform the ceremony.  Sir Charles wished it to be at his own parish-church:  but Miss Grandison thought it too near to be private.  He was indifferent, as to the place, he said—­So it was at church; for he had been told of the difficulty we had to get Charlotte to desist from having it performed in her chamber; and seemed surprised.—­Fie, Charlotte! said he—­An office so solemn!—­Vows to receive and pay, as in the Divine Presence—­

She was glad, she told me, that she had not left that battle to be fought with him.

MONDAY, APRIL 10.