“23d.  I have received no molestation since the explanation with Mr. Sommerville, except from my mother, who accuses me of having affronted Lord ——­; and although I deny it, she asserts that he never could have so changed his conduct toward both of us if I had not so done.  I have not seen Janet this week—­I cannot imagine what has become of her.

“24th.  You may imagine my joy, my dear Tom.  Mr. Sommerville has received a letter, stating that his lordship is to go down to his father’s seat in the country, as he will be of age in a month, and he is to make acquaintance with the tenants; there are to be great rejoicings there upon his coming of age.  I am sure no one can rejoice more than I shall when he leaves, which is to be next Saturday.  I am also very glad to say that the Marquess has presented Mr. Sommerville with a valuable living, now that he gives up his tutorship.  I really think he will do justice to his profession, for I have seen more of him lately, and esteem him very much.

“27th.  They are gone, much to my mother’s mortification and to my delight; and now, as I have written so much about myself, I shall leave this letter open till I see Janet, that I may tell you something about her, otherwise I know my letter will not be interesting to you.

“31st.  My dear Tom, you must prepare yourself for painful intelligence.

“Janet has disappeared.  She left her father’s house last night after the family had retired, but no one knows where.  She left a few lines on her table, stating that they would hear from her soon.  Poor Mr. Wilson was here to-day—­he is half distracted—­and the whole town is full of the scandal.  Mrs. St. Felix told me this morning that she has discovered that within the last week she has been seen walking on the London Road with Lord ——.  Is it possible?

“May 2d.  It is all true—­Mrs. St. Felix has a letter from Mr. Sommerville, stating that Janet was brought up to town and married to Lord ——­ two days ago.  It appears that from the time that I repulsed his attentions he fixed them upon Janet; that she encouraged him, and used to meet him every night, as Mrs. St. Felix was informed.  Mr. Sommerville has seen his father, and fully exculpated himself; but the Marquess declares, as his son is a minor, that the marriage shall not be binding.  How it will end Heaven only knows; but she is much to be pitied.  This will account for her not coming to me as usual.  Now, Tom, I do not suppose you will pay attention to me at present, but from what I knew of Janet, and which her conduct has fully proved, she was not worthy to be your wife, and could not have contributed to your happiness.  I pity you from my heart, as I know what you will feel; but still I congratulate you, and eventually you will congratulate yourself at your fortunate escape.

“I will say no more at present, except that I am, and ever will be,

“Your truly attached sister,