Reeves, Lady D----, and I.
My heart ached at her entrance; and every moment still more, as we were
at breakfast. Her looks, I thought, had such particular kindness and
meaning in them, as seemed to express, 'You have no hopes, Miss Byron,
any where else; and I will have you to be mine.'
But my suspense was over the moment the tea-table was removed. I see
your confusion, my dear, said the countess: [Mrs. Reeves, you must not
leave us;] and I have sat in pain for you, as I saw it increase. By this
I know that Sir Charles Grandison has been as good as his word. Indeed I
doubted not but he would. I don't wonder, my dear, that you love him.
He is the finest man in his manners, as well as person, that I ever saw.
A woman of virtue and honour cannot but love him. But I need not praise
him to you; nor to you, neither, Mrs. Reeves; I see that. Now you must
know, proceeded she, that there is an alliance proposed for my son, of
which I think very well; but still should have thought better, had I
never seen you, my dear. I have talked to my lord about it: you know I
am very desirous to have him married. His answer was; I never can think
of any proposal of this nature, while I have any hope that I can make
myself acceptable to Miss Byron.
What think you, my lord, said I, if I should directly apply to Sir
Charles Grandison, to know his intentions; and whether he has any hopes
of obtaining her favour? He is said to be the most unreserved of men.
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