But though she is a
good-natured, obliging woman; she is so immersed in the love of public
diversions! so fond of routs, drums, hurricanes,--Bless me, my dear! how
learned should I have been in all the gaieties of the modern life; what a
fine lady, possibly; had I not been carried into more rational (however
to me they have been more painful) scenes; and had I followed the lead of
this lady, as she (kindly, as to her intention) had designed I should!
In the afternoon Mr. Beauchamp is to introduce Sir Harry and Lady
Beauchamp, on their first visit to the two sisters.
I had almost forgot to tell you, that my cousins and I are to attend the
good Countess of D---- for one half hour, after we have taken leave of
Lady Olivia and her aunt.
And now, my Lucy, do I shut up my correspondence with you from London.
My heart beats high with the hope of being as indulgently received by all
you, my dearest friends, as I used to be after a shorter absence: for I
am, and ever will be,
The grateful, dutiful, and affectionate
HARRIET BYRON.
LETTER XXXVI
MISS BYRON, TO LADY G----
SELBY-HOUSE, MONDAY, APRIL 24.
Though the kind friends with whom I parted at Dunstable were pleased, one
and all, to allow that the correspondence which is to pass between my
dear Lady G---- and their Harriet, should answer the just expectations of
each upon her, in the writing way; and though (at your motion, remember,
not at mine) they promised to be contented with hearing read to them such
parts of my letters as you should think proper to communicate; yet cannot
I dispense with my duty to Lady L----, my Emily, my cousin Reeves, and
Dr.
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