FANNY BURNEY
Camilla
OR
A Picture of Youth
CONTENTS
CAMILLA OR A PICTURE OF YOUTH
CAMILLA
OR
A PICTURE OF YOUTH
BY THE AUTHOR OF EVELINA and CECILIA
TO THE
QUEEN
MADAM
That Goodness inspires a confidence which by divesting respect of terror excites attachment to Greatness the presentation of this little Work to Your Majesty must truly however humbly evince and though a public manifestation of duty and regard from an obscure Individual may betray a proud ambition it is I trust but a venial—I am sure it is a natural one
In those to whom Your Majesty is known but by exaltation of Rank it may raise perhaps some surprise that scenes characters and incidents which have reference only to common life should be brought into so august a presence but the inhabitant of a retired cottage who there receives the benign permission which at Your Majestys feet casts this humble offering bears in mind recollections which must live there while memory holds its seat of a benevolence withheld from no condition and delighting in all ways to speed the progress of Morality through whatever channel it could flow to whatever port it might steer I blush at the inference I seem here to leave open of annexing undue importance to a production of apparently so light a kind—yet if my hope my view—however fallacious they may eventually prove extended not beyond whiling away an idle hour should I dare seek such patronage
With the deepest gratitude and most heartfelt respect I am
MADAM
Your Majestys
Most obedient most obliged
And most dutiful servant
F dArblay
Bookham
June 28 1796
ADVERTISEMENT
The Author of this little Work cannot in the anxious moment of committing it to its fate refuse herself the indulgence of expressing some portion of the gratitude with which she is filled by the highly favourable reception given to her TWO former attempts in this species of composition nor forbear pouring forth her thanks to the many Friends whose kind zeal has forwarded the present undertaking—from amongst whom she knows not how to resist selecting and gratifying herself by naming the Hon Mrs Boscawen Mrs Crewe and Mrs Locke
VOLUME I
BOOK I
The historian of human life finds less of difficulty and of intricacy to develop in its accidents and adventures than the investigator of the human heart in its feelings and its changes In vain may Fortune wave her manycoloured banner alternately regaling and dismaying with hues that seem glowing with all the creations felicities or with tints that appear stained with ingredients of unmixt horrors her most rapid vicissitudes her most unassimilating eccentricities are mocked laughed at and distanced by the wilder wonders of the Heart of man that amazing assemblage of all possible contrarieties in which one thing alone is steady—the perverseness of spirit which grafts desire on what is denied Its qualities are indefinable its resources unfathomable its weaknesses indefensible In our neighbours we cannot judge in ourselves we dare not trust it We lose ere we learn to appreciate and ere we can comprehend it we must be born again Its capacity oerleaps all limit while its futility includes every absurdity It lives its own surprise—it ceases to beat—and the void is inscrutable In one grand and general view who can display such a portrait Fairly however faintly to delineate some of its features is the sole and discriminate province of the pen which would trace nature yet blot out personality
CHAPTER I
A Family Scene
Repose is not more welcome to the worn and to the aged to the sick and to the unhappy than danger difficulty and toil to the young and adventurous Danger they encounter but as the forerunner of success difficulty as the spur of ingenuity and toil as the herald of honour The experience which teaches the lesson of truth and the blessings of tranquillity comes not in the shape of warning nor of wisdom from such they turn aside defying or disbelieving Tis in the bitterness of personal proof alone in suffering and in feeling in erring and in repenting that experience comes home with conviction or impresses to any use
In the bosom of her respectable family resided Camilla Nature with a bounty the most profuse had been lavish to her of attractions Fortune with a moderation yet kinder had placed her between luxury and indigence Her abode was in the parsonagehouse of Etherington beautifully situated in the unequal county of Hampshire and in the vicinity of the varied landscapes of the New Forest Her father the rector was the younger son of the house of Tyrold The living though not considerable enabled its incumbent to attain every rational object of his modest and circumscribed wishes to bestow upon a deserving wife whatever her own forbearance declined not and to educate a lovely race of one son and three daughters with that expansive propriety which unites improvement for the future with present enjoyment
In goodness of heart and in principles of piety this exemplary couple was bound to each other by the most perfect unison of character though in their tempers there was a contrast which had scarce the gradation of a single shade to smooth off its abrupt dissimilitude Mr Tyrold gentle with wisdom and benign in virtue saw with compassion all imperfections but his own and there doubled the severity which to others he spared Yet the mildness that urged him to pity blinded him not to approve his equity was unerring though his judgment was indulgent His partner had a firmness of mind which nothing could shake calamity found her resolute even prosperity was powerless to lull her duties asleep The exalted character of her husband was the pride of her existence, and the source of her happiness He was not merely her standard of excellence but of endurance since her sense of his worth was the criterion for her opinion of all others This instigated a spirit of comparison which is almost always uncandid and which here could rarely escape proving injurious Such at its very best is the unskilfulness of our fallible nature that even the noble principle which impels our love of right misleads us but into new deviations when its ambition presumes to point at perfection In this instance however distinctness of disposition stifled not reciprocity of affection—that magnetic concentration of all marriage felicity—Mr Tyrold revered while he softened the rigid virtues of his wife who adored while she fortified the melting humanity of her husband
Thus in an interchange of happiness the most deserved and of parental occupations the most promising passed the first married years of this blest and blessing pair An event then came to pass extremely interesting at the moment and yet more important in its consequences This was the receipt of a letter from the elder brother of Mr Tyrold containing information that he meant to remove into Hampshire
Sir Hugh Tyrold was a baronet who resided upon the hereditary estate of the family in Yorkshire He was many years older than Mr Tyrold who had never seen him since his marriage religious duties prudence and domestic affairs having from that period detained him at his benefice while a passion for field sports had with equal constancy kept his brother stationary
The baronet began his letter with kind enquiries after the welfare of Mr Tyrold and his family and then entered upon the state of his own affairs briefly narrating that he had lost his health and not knowing what to do with himself had resolved to change his habitation and settle near his relations The Cleves estate which he heard was just by Etherington being then upon sale he desired his brother to make the purchase for him out of hand and then to prepare Mrs Tyrold with whom he was yet unacquainted though he took it for granted she was a woman of great learning to receive a mere poor country squire who knew no more of hic hæc hoc than the baby unborn He begged him to provide a proper apartment for their niece Indiana Lynmere whom he should bring with him and another for their nephew Clermont who was to follow at the next holidays and not to forget Mrs Margland Indianas governess she being rather the most particular in point of pleasing amongst them
Mr Tyrold extremely gratified by this unexpected renewal of fraternal intercourse wrote the warmest thanks to his brother and executed the commission with the utmost alacrity A noble mansion with an extensive pleasureground scarce four miles distant from the parsonagehouse of Etherington was bought fitted up and made ready for his reception in the course of a few months The baronet impatient to take possession of his new territory arrived speedily after with his niece Indiana and was welcomed at the gate of the park by Mr Tyrold and his whole family
Sir Hugh Tyrold inherited from his ancestors an unincumbered estate of £5000 per annum which he enjoyed with ease and affluence to himself and disseminated with a good will so generous that he appeared to think his personal prosperity and that of all who surrounded him bestowed but to be shared in common rather from general right than through his own dispensing bounty His temper was unalterably sweet and every thought of his breast was laid open to the world with an almost infantine artlessness But his talents bore no proportion to the goodness of his heart an insuperable want of quickness and of application in his early days having left him at a later period wholly uncultivated and singularly selfformed
A dearth of all sedentary resources became when his youth passed away his own constant reproach Health failed him in the meridian of his life from the consequences of a wound in his side occasioned by a fall from his horse exercise therefore and active diversions were of necessity relinquished and as these had hitherto occupied all his time except that portion which he delighted to devote to hospitality and neighbourly offices now equally beyond his strength he found himself at once deprived of all employment and destitute of all comfort Nor did any plan occur to him to solace his misfortunes till he accidentally read in the newspapers that the Cleves estate was upon sale
Indiana the niece who accompanied him a beautiful little girl was the orphan daughter of a deceased sister who at the death of her parents had with Clermont an only brother been left to the guardianship of Sir Hugh with the charge of a small estate for the son of scarce £200 ayear and the sum of £1000 for the fortune of the daughter
The meeting was a source of tender pleasure to Mr Tyrold and gave birth in his young family to that eager joy which is so naturally attached by our happiest early prejudices to the first sight of near relations Mrs Tyrold received Sir Hugh with the complacency due to the brother of her husband who now rose higher than ever in her estimation from a fraternal comparison to the unavoidable disadvantage of the baronet though she was not insensible to the fair future prospects of her children which seemed the probable result of his change of abode
Sir Hugh himself notwithstanding his best affections were all opened by the sight of so many claimants to their kindness was the only dejected person of the group
Though too good in his nature for envy a severe selfupbraiding followed his view of the happiness of his brother he regretted he had not married at the same age that he might have owned as fine a family and repined against the unfortunate privileges of his birthright which by indulging him in his first youth with whatever he could covet drove from his attention that modest foresight which prepares for later years the consolation they are sure to require
By degrees however the satisfaction spread around him found some place in his own breast and he acknowledged himself sensibly revived by so endearing a reception though he candidly avowed that if he had not been at a loss what to do he should never have had a thought of taking so long a journey But the not having made cried he the proper proficiency in my youth for the filling up my time has put me quite behindhand
He caressed all the children with great fondness and was much struck with the beauty of his three nieces particularly with that of Camilla Mr Tyrolds second daughter yet she is not he cried so pretty as her little sister Eugenia nor much better than tother sister Lavinia and not one of the three is half so great a beauty as my little Indiana so I cant well make out what it is thats so catching in her but theres something in her little mouth that quite wins me though she looks as if she was half laughing at me too which can't very well be neither for I suppose as yet at least she knows no more of books and studying than her uncle And thats little enough God knows for I never took to them in proper season which I have been sorry enough for upon coming to discretion
Then addressing himself to the boy he exhorted him to work hard while yet in his youth and related sundry anecdotes of the industry and merit of his father when at the same age though left quite to himself as to his great misfortune he had been also which brought about he continued my being this present ignoramus that you see me which would not have happened if my good forefathers had been pleased to keep a sharper look out upon my education
Lionel the little boy casting a comic glance at Camilla begged to know what his uncle meant by a sharper look out
Mean my dear why correction to be sure for all that they tell me is to be done by the rod so there at least I might have stood as good a chance as my neighbours
And pray uncle cried Lionel pursing up his mouth to hide his laughter did you always like the thoughts of it so well
Why no my dear I cant pretend to that at your age I had no more taste for it than you have but theres a proper season for every thing However though I tell you this for a warning perhaps you may do without it for by what I hear the rising generations got to a much greater pitch since my time
He then added he must advise him as a friend to be upon his guard as his Cousin Clermont Lynmere who was coming home from Eton school next Christmas for the holidays would turn out the very mirror of scholarship for he had given directions to have him study both night and day except what might be taken off for eating and sleeping Because he continued having proved the bad of knowing nothing in my own case I have the more right to intermeddle with others And he will thank me enough when once he has got over his classics And I hope my dear little boy you see it in the same light too which however, is what I cant expect
The house was now examined the fair little Indiana took possession of her apartment Miss Margland was satisfied with the attention that had been paid her and Sir Hugh was rejoiced to find a room for Clermont that had no window but a skylight by which means his studies he observed would receive no interruption from gaping and staring about him And when the night advanced Mr Tyrold had the happiness of leaving him with some prospect of recovering his spirits
The revival however lasted but during the novelty of the scene depression returned with the feelings of ill health and the happier lot of his brother though born to almost nothing filled him with incessent repentance of his own mismanagement
In some measure to atone for this he resolved to collect himself a family in his own house and the young Camilla whose dawning archness of expression had instinctively caught him he now demanded of her parents to come and reside with him and Indiana at Cleves for certainly he said for such a young little thing she looks full of amusement
Mrs Tyrold objected against reposing a trust so precious where its value could so ill be appreciated Camilla was in secret the fondest hope of her mother though the rigour of her justice scarce permitted the partiality to beat even in her own breast Nor did the happy little person need the avowed distinction The tide of youthful glee flowed jocund from her heart and the transparency of her fine blue veins almost shewed the velocity of its current Every look was a smile every step was a spring every thought was a hope every feeling was joy and the early felicity of her mind was without allay O blissful state of innocence purity and delight why must it fleet so fast why scarcely but by retrospection is its happiness known
Mr Tyrold while his tenderest hopes encircled the same object saw the proposal in a fairer light from the love he bore to his brother It seemed certain such a residence would secure her an ample fortune the governess to whom Indiana was entrusted would take care of his little girl though removed from the hourly instructions she would still be within reach of the general superintendance of her mother into whose power he cast the uncontrolled liberty to reclaim her if there started any occasion His children had no provision ascertained should his life be too short to fulfil his own personal schemes of economy in their favour and while to an argument so incontrovertible Mrs Tyrold was silent he begged her also to reflect that persuasive as were the attractions of elegance and refinement no just parental expectations could be essentially disappointed where the great moral lessons were practically inculcated by a uniform view of goodness of heart and firmness of principle These his brother possessed in an eminent degree and if his character had nothing more from which their daughter could derive benefit it undoubtedly had not a point from which she could receive injury
Mrs Tyrold now yielded she never resisted a remonstrance of her husband and as her sense of duty impelled her also never to murmur she retired to her own room to conceal with how ill a grace she complied
Had this lady been united to a man whom she despised she would yet have obeyed him and as scrupulously though not as happily as she obeyed her honoured partner She considered the vow taken at the altar to her husband as a voluntary vestal would have held one taken to her Maker and no dissent in opinion exculpated in her mind the least deviation from his will
But here where an admiration almost adoring was fixt of the character to which she submitted she was sure to applaud the motives which swayed him however little their consequences met her sentiments and even where the contrariety was wholly repugnant to her judgment the genuine warmth of her just affection made every compliance and every forbearance not merely exempt from pain but if to him any satisfaction a sacrifice soothing to her heart
Mr Tyrold whose whole soul was deeply affected by her excellencies gratefully felt his power and religiously studied not to abuse it he respected what he owed to her conscience he tenderly returned what he was indebted to her affection To render her virtues conducive to her happiness to soften her duties by the highest sense of their merit were the first and most sacred objects of his solicitude in life
When the lively and lovely little girl mingling the tears of separation with all the childish rapture which novelty to a much later period inspires was preparing to change her home Remember cried Mr Tyrold to her anxious mother that on you my Georgiana devolves the sole charge the unlimited judgment to again bring her under this roof the first moment she appears to you in any danger from having quitted it
The prompt and thankful acceptance of Mrs Tyrold did justice to the sincerity of this offer and the cheerful acquiescence of lessened reluctance raised her higher in that esteem to which her constant mind invariably looked up as the summit of her chosen ambition
CHAPTER II
Comic Gambols
Delighted with this acquisition to his household Sir Hugh again revived My dear brother and sister he cried when next the family visited Cleves this proves the most fortunate step I have ever taken since I was born Camillas a little jewel she jumps and skips about till she makes my eyes ache with looking after her for fear of her breaking her neck I must keep a sharp watch or shell put poor Indianas nose quite out of joint which God forbid However shes the life of us all for Im sorry to say it but I think my dear brother poor Indiana promises to turn out rather dull
The sprightly little girl thus possessed of the heart soon guided the will of her uncle He could refuse nothing to her endearing entreaty and felt every indulgence repaid by the enchantment of her gaiety Indiana his first idol lost her power to please him though no essential kindness was abated in his conduct He still acknowledged that her beauty was the most complete but he found in Camilla a variety that was captivation Her form and her mind were of equal elasticity Her playful countenance rekindled his spirits the cheerfulness of her animated voice awakened him to its own joy He doated upon detaining her by his side or delighted to gratify her if she wished to be absent She exhilarated him with pleasure she supplied him with ideas, and from the mornings first dawn to the evenings latest close his eye followed her lightspringing figure or his ear vibrated with her sportive sounds catching as it listened in successive rotation the spontaneous laugh the unconscious bound the genuine glee of childhoods fearless happiness uncurbed by severity untamed by misfortune
This ascendance was soon pointed out by the servants to Indiana who sometimes shewed her resentment in unexplained and pouting sullenness and at others let all pass unnoticed with unreflecting forgetfulness But her mind was soon empoisoned with a jealousy of more permanent seriousness in less than a month after the residence of Camilla at Cleves Sir Hugh took the resolution of making her his heiress
Even Mr Tyrold notwithstanding his fondness for Camilla remonstrated against a partiality so injurious to his nephew and niece as well as to the rest of his family And Mrs Tyrold though her secret heart subscribed without wonder to a predilection in favour of Camilla was maternally disturbed for her other children and felt her justice sensibly shocked at a blight so unmerited to the hopes cherished by Indiana and Clermont Lynmere for though the fruits of this change of plan would be reaped by her little darling they were robbed of all their sweetness to a mind so correct by their undeserved bitterness towards the first expectants
Sir Hugh however was immoveable he would provide handsomely he said for Indiana and Clermont by settling a thousand pounds a year between them and he would bequeath capital legacies amongst the rest of his nephews and nieces but as to the bulk of his fortune it should all go to Camilla for how else could he make her amends for having amused him or how when he was gone should he prove to her he loved her the best
Sir Hugh could keep nothing secret Camilla was soon informed of the riches she was destined to inherit and servants who now with added respect attended her took frequent opportunities of impressing her with the expectation by the favours they begged from her in reversion
The happy young heiress heard them with little concern interest and ambition could find no room in a mind which to dance sing and play could enliven to rapture Yet the continued repetition of requests soon made the idea of patronage familiar to her and though wholly uninfected with one thought of power or consequence she sometimes regaled her fancy with the presents she should make amongst her friends designing a coach for her mamma that she might oftener go abroad an horse for her brother Lionel which she knew to be his most passionate wish a new bureau with a lock and key for her eldest sister Lavinia innumerable trinkets for her cousin Indiana dolls and toys without end for her little sister Eugenia and a new library of new books finely bound and gilt for her papa But these munificent donations looked forward to no other date than the anticipation of womanhood If an hint were surmised of her surviving her uncle an impetuous shower of tears dampt all her gay schemes deluged every airy castle and shewed the instinctive gratitude which kindness can awaken even in the unthinking period of earliest youth in those bosoms it has ever the power to animate
Her ensuing birthday upon which she would enter her tenth year was to announce to the adjoining country her uncles splendid plan in her favour Her brother and sisters were invited to keep it with her at Cleves but Sir Hugh declined asking either her father or mother that his own time without restraint might be dedicated to the promotion of her festivity he even requested of Miss Margland that she would not appear that day lest her presence should curb the childrens spirits
The gay little party consisting of Lavinia who was two years older and Eugenia who was two years younger than Camilla with her beautiful cousin who was exactly of her own age her brother Lionel who counted three years more and Edgar Mandlebert a ward of Mr Tyrolds all assembled at Cleves upon this important occasion at eight oclock in the morning to breakfast
Edgar Mandlebert an uncommonly spirited and manly boy now thirteen years of age was heir to one of the finest estates in the county He was the only son of a bosom friend of Mr Tyrold to whose guardianship he had been consigned almost from his infancy and who superintended the care of his education with as much zeal though not as much œconomy as that of his own son He placed him under the tuition of Dr Marchmont a man of consummate learning and he sent for him to Etherington twice in every year where he assiduously kept up his studies by his own personal instructions I leave him rich my dear friend said his father when on his deathbed he recommended him to Mr Tyrold and you I trust will make him good and see him happy and should hereafter a daughter of your own from frequent intercourse become mistress of his affections do not oppose such a union from a disparity of fortune which a daughter of yours and of your incomparable partners can hardly fail to counterbalance in merit Mr Tyrold though too noble to avail himself of a declaration so generous by forming any plan to bring such a connection to bear felt conscientiously absolved from using any measures of frustration and determined as the young people grew up neither to promote nor impede any rising regard
The estate of Beech Park was not all that young Mandlebert inherited the friendship of its late owner for Mr Tyrold seemed instinctively transfused into his breast and he paid back the parental tenderness with which he was watched and cherished by a fondness and veneration truly filial
Whatever could indulge or delight the little set was brought forth upon this joyous meeting fruits sweetmeats and cakes cards trinkets and blind fidlers were all at the unlimited command of the fairy mistress of the ceremonies But unbounded as were the transports of the jovial little group they could scarcely keep pace with the enjoyment of Sir Hugh he entered into all their plays he forgot all his pains he laughed because they laughed and suffered his darling little girl to govern and direct him at her pleasure She made him whiskers of cork powdered his brown bob and covered a thread paper with black ribbon to hang to it for a queue She metamorphosed him into a female accoutring him with her fine new cap while she enveloped her own small head in his wig and then tying the maids apron round his waist put a rattle into his hand and Eugenias doll upon his lap which she told him was a baby that he must nurse and amuse
The excess of merriment thus excited spread through the whole house Lionel called in the servants to see this comical sight and the servants indulged their numerous guests with a peep at it from the windows Sir Hugh meanwhile resolved to object to nothing performed every part assigned him joined in their hearty laughs at the grotesque figure they made of him and cordially encouraged all their proceedings assuring them he had not been so much diverted himself since his fall from his horse and advising them with great zeal to be merry while they could For you will never my dears said he be younger never while you live no more for that matter shall I neither for all I am so much older which in that point makes no difference
He grew weary however first and stretching himself his full length with a prodigious yawn Heigh ho he cried Camilla my dear do take away poor Doll for fear I should let it slip
The little gigglers almost in convulsions of laughter entreated him to nurse it some time longer but he frankly answered No my dears no I can play no more now if Id ever so fain for Im tired to death which is really a pity so you must either go out with me my airing for a rest to your merry little sides or stay and play by yourselves till I come back which I think will put you all into fevers but however nobody shall trouble your little souls with advice today there are days enough in the year for teazing without this one
Camilla instantly decided for the airing and without a dissentient voice so entirely had the extreme good humour of Sir Hugh won the hearts of the little party that they felt as if the whole of their entertainment depended upon his presence The carriage therefore was ordered for the baronet and his four nieces and Lionel and Edgar Mandlebert at the request of Camilla were gratified with horses
Camilla was desired to fix their route and while she hesitated from the variety in her choice Lionel proposed to Edgar that they should take a view of his house park and gardens which were only three miles from Cleves Edgar referred the matter to Indiana to whose already exquisite beauty his juvenile admiration paid its most early obeisance Indiana approved the little heroine of the day assented with pleasure and they immediately set out upon the happy expedition
The two boys the whole way came with offerings of wild honeysuckle and sweetbriar the grateful nosegays of alldiffusing nature to the coach windows each carefully presenting the most fragrant to Indiana for Lionel even more than sympathising with Edgar declared his sisters to be mere frights in comparison with his fair cousin Their partiality however struggled vainly against that of Sir Hugh who still in every the most trivial particular gave the preference to Camilla
The baronet had ordered that his own garden chair should follow him to young Mandleberts park that he might take Camilla by his side and go about the grounds without fatigue the rest were to walk Here Indiana received again the homage of her two young beaus they pointed out to her the most beautiful prospects they gathered her the fairest flowers they loaded her with the best and ripest fruits
This was no sooner observed by Sir Hugh than hastily stopping his chair he called after them aloud Holloa come hither my boys here you Mr young Mandlebert what are you all about Why dont you bring that best bunch of grapes to Camilla
I have already promised it to Miss Lynmere Sir
O ho have you so well give it her then if you have I have no right to rob you of your choice Indiana my dear how do you like this place
Very much indeed uncle I never saw any place I liked so much in my life
I am sure else said Edgar I should never care for it again myself
O I could look at it for ever cried Indiana and not be tired
Sir Hugh gravely paused at these speeches and regarded them in turn with much steadiness as if settling their future destinies but ever unable to keep a single thought to himself he presently burst forth aloud with his new mental arrangement saying Well my dears well this is not quite the thing I had taken a fancy to in my own private brain but its all for the best theres no doubt though the estate being just in my neighbourhood would have made it more suitable for Camilla I mean provided we could have bought among us the odd three miles between the Parks which how many acres they make I cant pretend to say without the proper calculation but if it was all joined it would be the finest domain in the county as far as I know to the contrary nevertheless my dear young Mr Mandlebert you have a right to choose for yourself for as to beauty tis mere fancy not but what Indiana has one or other the prettiest face I ever saw though I think Camillas so much prettier I mean in point of winningness However theres no fear as to my consent for nothing can be a greater pleasure to me than having two such good girls both being cousins live so near that they may overlook one another from park to park all day long by the mode of a telescope
Edgar perfectly understanding him blushed deeply and forgetting what he had just declared offered his grapes to Lavinia Indiana conceiving herself already mistress of so fine a place smiled with approving complacency and the rest were too much occupied with the objects around them to listen to so long a speech
They then all moved on but soon after Lionel flying up to his uncles chair informed Camilla he had just heard from the gardener that only half a mile off at Northwick there was a fair to which he begged she would ask to go She found no difficulty in obliging him and Sir Hugh was incapable of hesitating at whatever she could desire The carriage and the horses for the boys were again ordered and to the regret of only Edgar and Indiana the beautiful plantations of Beech Park were relinquished for the fair
They had hardly proceeded twenty yards when the smiles that had brightened the face of Lavinia the eldest daughter of Mr Tyrold were suddenly overcast giving place to a look of dismay which seemed the effect of some abruptly painful recollection and the moment Sir Hugh perceived it and enquired the cause the tears rolled fast down her cheeks and she said she had been guilty of a great sin and could never forgive herself
They all eagerly endeavoured to console her Camilla fondly taking her hand little Eugenia sympathetically crying over and kissing her Indiana begging to know what was the matter and Sir Hugh holding out to her the finest peach from his stores for Camilla and saying Dont cry so my dear dont cry take a little bit of peach I dare say you are not so bad as you think for
The weeping young penitent besought leave to get out of the coach with Camilla to whom alone she could explain herself Camilla almost opened the door herself to hasten the discovery and the moment they had run up a bank by the road side Tell me what it is my dear Lavinia she cried and I am sure my uncle will do anything in the world to help you
O Camilla she answered I have disobeyed mamma and I did not mean it in the least—but I have forgot all her commands—She charged me not to let Eugenia stir out from Cleves because of the small pox—and she has been already at Beech Park—and now how can I tell the poor little thing she must not go to the fair
Dont vex yourself about that cried Camilla kindly kissing the tears off her cheeks for I will stay behind and play with Eugenia myself if my uncle will drive us back to Beech Park and then all the rest may go to the fair and take us up again in the way home
With this expedient she flew to the coach charging the two boys who with great curiosity had ridden to the bank side and listened to all that had passed to comfort Lavinia
Lionel cried Edgar do you know while Camilla was speaking so kindly to Lavinia I thought she looked almost as pretty as your cousin Lionel would by no means subscribe to this opinion but Edgar would not retract
Camilla jumping into the carriage threw her arms around the neck of her uncle and whispered to him all that had passed Poor innocent little dear cried he is that all its just nothing considering her young age
Then looking out of the window Lavinia he said you have done no more harm than whats quite natural and so I shall tell your mamma who is a woman of sense, and wont expect such a young head as yours to be of the same age as hers and mine But come into the coach my dear well just drive as far as Northwick for an airing and then back again
The extreme delicacy of the constitution of Eugenia had hitherto deterred Mrs Tyrold from innoculating her she had therefore scrupulously kept her from all miscellaneous intercourse in the neighbourhood but as the weakness of her infancy was now promising to change into health and strength she meant to give to that terrible disease its best chance and the only security it allows from perpetual alarm immediately after the heats of the present autumn should be over
Lavinia unused to disobedience could not be happy in practising it she entreated therefore to return immediately to Cleves Sir Hugh complied premising only that they must none of them expect him to be of their playparty again till after dinner
The coachman then received fresh orders but the moment they were communicated to the two boys Lionel protesting he would not lose the fair said he should soon overtake them and regardless of all remonstrances put spurs to his horse and galloped off
Sir Hugh looking after him with great alarm exclaimed Now he is going to break all his bones which is always the case with those young boys when first they get a horseback
Camilla terrified that she had begged this boon requested that the servant might directly ride after him
Yes my dear if you wish it answered Sir Hugh only we have but this one man for us all because of the rest staying to get the ball and supper ready so that if we should be overturned ourselves heres never a soul to pick us up
Edgar offered to ride on alone and persuade the truant to return
Thank you my dear thank you answered Sir Hugh you are as good a boy as any I know but in point of horsemanship ones as ignorant as tother as far as I can tell so we may only see both your sculls fractured instead of one in the midst of your galloping which God forbid for either
Then let us all go together cried Indiana and bring him back
But do not let us get out of the coach uncle said Lavinia pray do not let us get out
Sir Hugh agreed though he added that as to the small pox he could by no means see it in the same light for he had no notion of peoples taking diseases upon themselves Besides continued he she will be sure to have it when her time comes whether she is moped up or no and how did people do before these new modes of making themselves sick of their own accord
Pitying however the uneasiness of Lavinia when they came near the town he called to the footman and said Harkee Jacob do you ride on first and keep a sharp look out that nobody has the small pox
The fair being held in the suburbs they soon arrived at some straggling booths and the coach at the instance of Lavinia was stopt
Indiana now earnestly solicited leave to alight and see the fair and Edgar offered to be her esquire Sir Hugh consented but desired that Lavinia and Camilla might be also of the party Lavinia tried vainly to excuse herself he assured her it would raise her spirits and bid her be under no apprehension for he would stay and amuse the little Eugenia himself and take care that she came to no harm
They were no sooner gone however than the little girl cried to follow Sir Hugh compassionately kissing her owned she had as good a right as any of them and declared it was a hard thing to have her punished for other peoples particularities This concession served only to make her tears flow the faster till unable to bear the sight he said he could not answer to his conscience the vexing such a young thing and promising she should have whatever she liked if she would cry no more he ordered the coachman to drive to the first booth where there were any toys to be sold
Here having no footman to bring the trinkets to the coach he alighted and suffering the little girl for whom he had not a fear himself to accompany him he entered the booth and told her to take whatever hit her fancy for she should have as many playthings as she could carry
Her grief now gave way to ecstasy and her little hands could soon scarcely sustain the loaded skirt of her white frock Sir Hugh determining to make the rest of the children equally happy was selecting presents for them all when the little group ignorant whom they should encounter advanced towards the same booth but he had hardly time to exclaim Oho have you caught us when the innocent voice of Eugenia calling out Little boy whats the matter with your face little boy drew his attention another way and he perceived a child apparently just recovering from the small pox
Edgar who at the same instant saw the same dreaded sight darted forward seized Eugenia in his arms and in defiance of her playthings and her struggles carried her back to the coach while Lavinia in an agony of terror ran up to the little boy and crying out O go away go away dragged him out of the booth and perfectly unconscious what she did covered his head with her frock and held him fast with both her hands
Sir Hugh all aghast hurried out of the booth but could scarce support himself from emotion and while he leaned upon his stick ejaculating Lord help us what poor creatures we are we poor mortals Edgar had the presence of mind to make Indiana and Camilla go directly to the carriage He then prevailed with Sir Hugh to enter it also and ran back for Lavinia But when he perceived the situation into which distress and affright had driven her and saw her sobbing over the child whom she still held confined with an idea of hiding him from Eugenia he was instantly sensible of the danger of her joining her little sister Extremely perplexed for them all and afraid by going from the sick child he might himself carry the infection to the coach he sent a man to Sir Hugh to know what was to be done
Sir Hugh totally overset by the unexpected accident and consciencestruck at his own wilful share in risking it was utterly helpless and could only answer that he wished young Mr Edgar would give him his advice
Edgar thus called upon now first felt the abilities which his short life had not hitherto brought into use he begged Sir Hugh would return immediately to Cleves and keep Eugenia there for a few days with Camilla and her cousin while he undertook to go himself in search of Lionel with whose assistance he would convey Lavinia back to Etherington without seeing her little sister since she must now be as full of contagion as the poor object who had just had the disease
Sir Hugh much relieved sent him word he had no doubt he would become the first scholar of the age and desired he would get a chaise for himself and Lavinia and let the footman take charge of his horse
He then ordered the coach to Cleves
Edgar fulfilled the injunctions of Sir Hugh with alacrity but had a very difficult task to find Lionel and one far more painful to appease Lavinia whose apprehensions were so great as they advanced towards Etherington that to sooth and comfort her he ordered the postilion to drive first to a farmhouse near Cleves whence he forwarded a boy to Sir Hugh with entreaties that he would write a few lines to Mrs Tyrold in exculpation of her sorrowing daughter
Sir Hugh complied but was so little in the habit of writing that he sent over a messenger to desire they would dine at the farmhouse in order to give him time to compose his epistle
Early in the afternoon he conveyed to them the following letter
To Mrs Tyrold at the Parsonage House belonging to the Reverend Rector Mr Tyrold for the Time being at Etherington in Hampshire
DEAR SISTER
I am no remarkable good writer in comparison with my brother which you will excuse from my deficiencies as it is my only apology I beg you will not be angry with little Lavinia as she did nothing in the whole business except wanting to do right only not mentioning it in the beginning which is very excusable in the light of a fault the wisest of us having been youths ourselves once and the most learned being subject to do wrong but how much so the ignorant of which I may speak more properly However as she would certainly have caught the small pox herself except from the lucky circumstance of having had it before I think it best to keep Eugenia a few days at Cleves for the sake of her infection Not but what if she should have it I trust your sense wont fret about it as it is only in the course of Nature; which if she had been innoculated is more than any man could say even a physician So the whole being my own fault without the least meaning to offend if any thing comes of it I hope my dear sister you wont take it ill especially of poor little Lavinia for tis hard if such young things may not be happy at their time of life before having done harm to a human soul Poor dears tis soon enough to be unhappy after being wicked which God knows we are all liable to be in the proper season I beg my love to my brother and remain
Dear sister
Your affectionate brother
Hugh Tyrold
PS It is but justice to my brother to mention that young Master Mandleberts behaviour has done the greatest honour to the classics which must be a great satisfaction to a person having the care of his education
The rest of the day lost all its delights to the young heiress from this unfortunate adventure The deprivation of three of the party with the wellgrounded fear of Mrs Tyrolds just blame were greater mortifications to those that remained than even the ball and supper could remove And Sir Hugh to whom their lowered spirits were sufficiently depressing had an additional though hardly to himself acknowledged weight upon his mind relative to Eugenia and the small pox
The contrition of the trembling Lavinia could not but obtain from Mrs Tyrold the pardon it deserved but she could make no allowance for the extreme want of consideration in Sir Hugh and anxiously waited the time when she might call back Eugenia from the management of a person whom she considered as more childish than her children themselves
CHAPTER III
Consequences
Every precaution being taken with regard to Lavinia and her clothes for warding off infection to Eugenia if as yet she had escaped it Mrs Tyrold fixed a day for fetching her little daughter from Cleves Sir Hugh at the earnest entreaty of Camilla invited the young party to come again early that morning that some amends might be made them for their recent disappointment of the ball and supper by a holiday and a little sport previous to the arrival of Mrs Tyrold to whom he voluntarily pledged his word that Eugenia should not again be taken abroad nor suffered to appear before any strangers
Various gambols were now again enacted by the once more happy group but all was conducted with as much security as gaiety till Lionel proposed the amusement of riding upon a plank in the park
A plank was immediately procured by the gardener and placed upon the trunk of an old oak where it parted into two thick branches
The boys and the three eldest girls balanced one another in turn with great delight and dexterity but Sir Hugh feared committing the little Eugenia for whom he was grown very anxious amongst them till the repinings of the child demolished his prudence The difficulty how to indulge her with safety was nevertheless considerable and after various experiments he resolved to trust her to nobody but himself and placing her upon his lap occupied one end of the plank and desired that as many of the rest as were necessary to make the weight equal would seat themselves upon the other
This diversion was short but its consequences were long Edgar Mandlebert who superintended the balance poised it with great exactness yet no sooner was Sir Hugh elevated than becoming exceedingly giddy he involuntarily loosened his hold of Eugenia who fell from his arms to the ground
In the agitation of his fright he stooped forward to save her but lost his equilibrium and instead of rescuing followed her
The greatest confusion ensued Edgar with admirable adroitness preserved the elder girls from suffering by the accident and Lionel took care of himself by leaping instantly from the plank Sir Hugh extremely bruised could not get up without pain but all concern and attention soon centred in the little Eugenia whose incessant cries raised apprehensions of some more than common mischief
She was carried to the house in the arms of Edgar and delivered to the governess She screamed the whole time she was undressing and Edgar convinced she had received some injury galloped off unbid for a surgeon but what was the horror of Sir Hugh upon hearing him pronounce that her left shoulder was put out and that one of her knees was dislocated
In an agony of remorse he shut himself up in his room without power to issue a command or listen to a question nor could he be prevailed upon to open his door till the arrival of Mrs Tyrold
Hastily then rushing out he hurried to meet her and snatching both her hands and pressing them between his own he burst into a passionate flood of tears and sobbed out Hate me my dear sister for you cant help it for I am sorry to tell it you but I believe I have been the death of poor Eugenia that never hurt a fly in her life
Pale and struck with dread yet always possessing her presence of mind Mrs Tyrold disengaged herself and demanded where she might find her Sir Hugh could make no rational answer but Edgar who had run down stairs purposing to communicate the tidings more gently briefly stated the misfortune and conducted her to the poor little sufferer
Mrs Tyrold though nearly overpowered by a sight so affecting still preserved her faculties for better uses than lamentation She held the child in her arms while the necessary operations were performing by the surgeon she put her to bed and watched by her side the whole night during which in defiance of all precautions a high fever came on and she grew worse every moment
The next morning while still in this alarming state the unfortunate little innocent exhibited undoubted symptoms of the small pox
Mr Tyrold now also established himself at Cleves to share the parental task of nursing the afflicted child whose room he never left except to give consolation to his unhappy brother who lived wholly in his own apartment refusing the sight even of Camilla and calling himself a monster too wicked to look at any thing that was good though the affectionate little girl pining at the exclusion continually presented herself at his door
The disease bore every prognostic of fatal consequences and the fond parents soon lost all hope though they redoubled every attention
Sir Hugh then gave himself up wholly to despair he darkened his room refused all food but bread and water permitted no one to approach him and reviled himself invariably with the contrition of a wilful murderer
In this state of self-punishment he persevered till the distemper unexpectedly took a sudden and happy turn and the surgeon made known that his patient might possibly recover
The joy of Sir Hugh was now as frantic as his grief had been the moment before he hastened to his drawingroom commanded that the whole house should be illuminated promised a years wages to all his servants bid his housekeeper distribute beef and broth throughout the village and sent directions that the bells of the three nearest parish churches should be rung for a day and a night But when Mr Tyrold to avert the horror of any wholly unprepared disappointment represented the still precarious state of Eugenia and the many changes yet to be feared he desperately reversed all his orders returned sadly to his dark room and protested he would never more rejoice till Mrs Tyrold herself should come to him with good news
This anxiously waited æra at length arrived Eugenia though seamed and even scarred by the horrible disorder was declared out of danger and Mrs Tyrold burying her anguish at the alteration in her joy for the safety of her child with an heart overflowing from pious gratitude became the messenger of peace and holding out her hand to Sir Hugh assured him the little Eugenia would soon be well
Sir Hugh in an ecstasy which no power could check forgot every pain and infirmity to hurry up to the apartment of the little girl that he might kneel he said at her feet and there give thanks for her recovery but the moment he entered the room and saw the dreadful havoc grim disease had made on her face not a trace of her beauty left no resemblance by which he could have known her he shrunk back wrung his hands called himself the most sinful of all created beings and in the deepest despondence sunk into a chair and wept aloud
Eugenia soon began to cry also though unconscious for what cause and Mrs Tyrold remonstrated to Sir Hugh upon the uselessness of such transports calmly beseeching him to retire and compose himself
Yes sister he answered yes Ill go away for I am sure I do not want to look at her again but to think of its being all my doing—O brother O sister why dont you both kill me in return And what amends can I make her what amends except a poor little trifle of money—And as to that she shall have it God knows every penny I am worth the moment I am gone ay that she shall to a single shilling if I die tomorrow
Starting up with revived courage from this idea he ventured again to turn his head towards Eugenia exclaiming O if she does but get well does but ease my poor conscience by making me out not to be a murderer a guinea for every pit in that poor face will I settle on her out of hand yes before I so much as breathe again for fear of dying in the mean time
Mrs Tyrold scarce noticed this declaration but his brother endeavoured to dissuade him from so sudden and partial a measure he would not however listen he made what speed he could down stairs called hastily for his hat and stick commanded all his servants to attend him and muttering frequent ejaculations to himself that he would not trust to changing his mind he proceeded to the family chapel and approaching with eager steps to the altar knelt down and bidding every one hear and witness what he said made a solemn vow That if he might be cleared of the crime of murder by the recovery of Eugenia he would atone what he could for the ill he had done her by bequeathing to her every thing he possessed in the world in estate cash and property without the deduction of a sixpence
He told all present to remember and witness this in case of an apoplexy before his new will could be written down
Returning then to the house lightened he said from a load of self-reproach which had rendered the last fortnight insupportable to him he sent for the attorney of a neighbouring town and went upstairs with a firmer mind to wait his arrival in the sick room
O my dear uncle cried his long banished Camilla who hearing him upon the stairs skipt lightly after him how glad I am to see you again I almost thought I should see you no more
Here ended at once the just acquired tranquility of Sir Hugh all his satisfaction forsook him at the appearance of his little darling he considered her as an innocent creature whom he was preparing to injure he could not bear to look at her his heart smote him in her favour his eyes filled with tears he was unable to go on and with slow and trembling steps he moved again towards his own room
My dearest uncle cried Camilla holding by his coat and hanging upon his arm wont you speak to me
Yes my dear to be sure I will he answered endeavouring to hide his emotion only not now so dont follow me Camilla for Im going to be remarkably busy
O uncle she cried plaintively and I have not seen you so long And I have wished so to see you and I have been so unhappy about Eugenia and you have always locked your door and I would not rap hard at it for fear you should be asleep But why would you not see me uncle and why will you send me away
My dear Camilla he replied with increased agitation I have used you very ill I have been your worst enemy which is the very reason I dont care to see you so go away I beg for I am bad enough without all this But I give you my thanks for all your little playful gambols having nothing better now to offer you which is but a poor return from an uncle to a niece
He then shut himself into his room leaving Camilla drowned in tears at the outside of the door
Wretched in reflecting upon the shock and disappointment which the new disposition of his affairs must occasion her he had not fortitude to inform her of his intention He desired to speak with Edgar Mandlebert who with all the Tyrold family resided for the present at Cleves and abruptly related to him the new destination he had just vowed of his wealth beseeching that he would break it in the softest manner to his poor little favourite assuring her she would be always the first in his love though a point of mere conscience had forced him to make choice of another heiress
Edgar whose zeal to serve and oblige had never been put to so severe a test hesitated how to obey this injunction yet he would not refuse it as he found that all the servants of the house were enabled if they pleased to anticipate more incautiously the ill news He followed her therefore into the garden whither she had wandered to weep unobserved but he stopt short at sight of her distress conceiving his errand to be already known to her and determined to consult with Indiana to whom he communicated his terrible embassy entreating her to devise some consolation for her poor cousin
Indiana felt too much chagrined at her own part in this transaction to give her attention to Camilla she murmured without scruple at the deprivation of what she had once expected for herself and at another time for her brother and expressed much resentment at the behaviour of her uncle mingled with something very near repining not merely at his late preference of Camilla but even at the recovery of the little Eugenia Edgar heard her with surprise and wondered to find how much less her beauty attracted him from the failure of her good nature
He now pursued the weeping Camilla who dispersing her tears at his approach pretended to be picking some lavender and keeping her eyes steadfastly upon the bush asked him if he would have any He took a sprig but spoke to her in a voice of such involuntary compassion that she soon lost her selfcommand and the big drops again rolled fast down her cheeks Extremely concerned he strove gently to sooth her but the expressions of regret at her uncles avoidance which then escaped her soon convinced him his own task was still to be performed With anxious fear of the consequences of a blow so unlooked for he executed it with all the speed yet all the consideration in his power Camilla the moment she understood him passionately clasped her hands and exclaimed O if that is all If my uncle indeed loves me as well as before all this I am sure I can never never be so wicked as to envy poor little Eugenia who has suffered so much and almost been dying because she will be richer than I shall be
Edgar delighted and relieved thought she was grown a thousand times more beautiful than Indiana and eagerly taking her hand ran with her to the apartment of the poor disconsolate Sir Hugh where his own eyes soon overflowed from tenderness and admiration at the uncommon scene he witnessed of the generous affection with which Camilla consoled the fond distress of her uncle though springing from her own disappointment and loss
They stayed till the arrival of the attorney who took the directions of Sir Hugh and drew up for his immediate satisfaction a short deed making over according to his vow all he should die possessed of without any let or qualification whatsoever to his niece Eugenia This was properly signed and sealed and Sir Hugh hastened up stairs with a copy of it to Mr Tyrold
All remonstrance was ineffectual his conscience he protested could no other way be appeased his noble little Camilla had forgiven him her ill usage and he could now bear to look at the change for the worse in Eugenia without finding his heartstrings ready to burst at the sight You he cried brother who do not know what it is I have suffered through my conscience cant tell what it is to get a little ease for if she had died you might all have had the comfort to say twas I murdered her which would have given you the satisfaction of having had no hand in it But then what would have become of poor me having it all upon my own head However now thank Heaven I have no need to care about the matter for as to the mere loss of beauty pretty as it is to look at I hope it is no such great injury as shell have a splendid fortune which is certainly a better thing in point of lasting For as to beauty Lord help us what is it except just to the eye
He then walked up to the child intending to kiss her but stopt and sighed involuntarily as he looked at her saying After all shes not like the same thing no more than I am myself I shall never think I know her again never as long as I live I cant so much as believe her to be the same though I am sure of its being true However it shall make no change in my love for her poor little dear for its all my own doing though innocently enough as to any meaning God knows
It was still some time before the little girl recovered and then a new misfortune became daily more palpable from some latent and incurable mischief owing to her fall which made her grow up with one leg shorter than the other and her whole figure diminutive and deformed These additional evils reconciled her parents to the partial will of her uncle which they now indeed thought less wanting in equity since no other reparation could be offered to the innocent sufferer for ills so insurmountable
CHAPTER IV
Studies of a grown Gentleman
When the tumult of this affair subsided Mr Tyrold and his family prepared to reestablish themselves at Etherington and Mrs Tyrold the great inducement for the separation being over was earnest to take home again the disinherited Camilla Sir Hugh whose pleasure in her sight was how embittered by regret and remorse had not courage to make the smallest opposition yet he spent the day of her departure in groans and penitence He thought it right however to detain Eugenia who as his decided heiress was left to be brought up at Cleves
The loss of the amusing society of his favourite the disappointment he had inflicted upon her and the sweetness with which she had borne it preyed incessantly upon his spirits and he knew not how to employ himself which way to direct his thoughts nor in what manner to beguile one moment of his time after the children were gone to rest
The view of the constant resources which his brother found in literature augmented his melancholy at his own imperfections and the steady industry with which Mr Tyrold in early youth had attained them and which while devoted to field sports he had often observed with wonder and pity he now looked back to with selfreproach and recognised in its effect with a reverence almost awful
His imagination neither regulated by wisdom nor disciplined by experience having once taken this turn he soon fancied that every earthly misfortune originated in a carelessness of learning and that all he wished and all he wanted upbraided him with his ignorance If disease and pain afflicted him he lamented the juvenile inattention that had robbed him of acquirements which might have taught him not to regard them if the word scholar was named in his presence he heaved the deepest sigh if an article in a newspaper with which he was unacquainted was discussed he reviled his early heedlessness of study and the mention of a common pamphlet which was unknown to him gave him a sensation of disgrace even inevitable calamities he attributed to the negligence of his education and construed every error and every evil of his life to his youthful disrespect of Greek and Latin
Such was the state of his mind when his ordinary maladies had the serious aggravation of a violent fit of the gout
In the midst of the acute anguish and useless repentance which now alternately ravaged his happiness it suddenly occurred to him that perhaps with proper instruction he might even yet obtain a sufficient portion of this enviable knowledge to enable him to pass his evenings with some similarity to his brother
Revived by this suggestion he sent for Mr Tyrold to communicate to him his idea and to beg he would put him into a way to recover his lost time by recommending to him a tutor with whom he might set about a course of studies—Not that I want cried he to make any particular great figure as a scholar but if I could only learn just enough to amuse me at odd hours and make me forget the gout its as much as I desire
The total impossibility that such a project should answer its given purpose deterred not Mr Tyrold from listening to his request The mild philosophy of his character saw whatever was lenient to human sufferings as eligible and looked no further for any obstacles to the wishes of another than to investigate if their gratification would be compatible with innocence He wrote therefore to a college associate of his younger years whom he knew to be severely embarrassed in his affairs and made proposals for settling him in the house of his brother These were not merely gratefully accepted by his old friend but drew forth a confession that he was daily menaced with a public arrest for debts which he had incurred without luxury or extravagance from mere ignorance of the value of money and of œconomy
In the award of cool reason to attend to what is impracticable appears a folly which no inducement can excuse Mrs Tyrold treated this scheme with calm but complete contempt She allowed no palliation for a measure of which the abortive end was glaring to hearken to it displeased her as a false indulgence of childish vanity and her understanding felt shocked that Mr Tyrold would deign to humour his brother in an enterprise which must inevitably terminate in a fruitless consumption of time
Sir Hugh soon but without anger saw her disapprobation of his plan her opinions from a high superiority to all deceit were as unreserved as those of the baronet from a nature incapable of caution He told her he was sorry to perceive that she thought he should make no proficiency but entreated her to take notice there was at least no great presumption in his attempt as he meant to begin with the very beginning and to go no farther at the first than any young little schoolboy for he should give himself fair play by trying his hand with the rudiments which would no sooner be run over than the rest would become plain sailing And if once he added I should conquer the mastery of the classics I shall make but very short work of all the rest
Mr Tyrold saw as forcibly as his wife the utter impossibility that Sir Hugh could now repair the omissions of his youth but he was willing to console his want of knowledge, and sooth his mortifications and while he grieved for his bodily infirmities and pitied his mental repinings he considered his idea as not illaudable though injudicious and in favour of its blamelessness forgave its absurdity
He was gratified also in offering an honourable provision to a man of learning in distress whose time and attention could not fail to deserve it if dedicated to his brother in whatever way they might be bestowed
He took care to be at Cleves on the day Dr Orkborne this gentleman was expected and he presented him to Sir Hugh with every mark of regard as a companion in whose conversation he flattered himself pain might be lightened and seclusion from mixt company cheerfully supported
Dr Orkborne expressed his gratitude for the kindness of Mr Tyrold and promised to make it his first study to merit the high consideration with which he had been called from his retirement
A scholastic education was all that had been given to Dr Orkborne by his friends and though in that their hopes were answered no prosperity followed His labours had been seconded by industry but not enforced by talents and they soon found how wide the difference between acquiring stores and bringing them into use Application operating upon a retentive memory had enabled him to lay by the most ample hoards of erudition but these though they rendered him respectable amongst the learned proved nearly nugatory in his progress through the world from a total want of skill and penetration to know how or where they might turn to any account Nevertheless his character was unexceptionable his manners were quiet and his fortune was ruined These were the motives which induced rather the benevolence than the selection of Mr Tyrold to name him to his brother in the hope that while an asylum at Cleves would exonerate him from all pecuniary hardships his very deficiency in brilliancy of parts, and knowledge of mankind which though differently modified was equal to that of Sir Hugh himself would obviate regret of more cultivated society and facilitate their reciprocal satisfaction
The introduction over Mr Tyrold sought by general topics to forward their acquaintance before any allusion should be made to the professed plan of Sir Hugh but Sir Hugh was too well pleased with its ingenuity to be ashamed of its avowal he began therefore immediately to descant upon the indolence of his early years and to impeach the want of timely severity in his instructors For there is an old saying he cried but remarkably true That learning is better than house or land which I am an instance of myself for I have house and land plenty yet dont know what to do with them properly nor with myself neither for want of a little notion of things to guide me by His brother he added had been too partial in thinking him already fitted for such a master as Dr Orkborne though he promised notwithstanding his time of life to become the most docile of pupils and he hoped before long to do no discredit to the Doctor as his tutor
Mr Tyrold whose own benign countenance could scarce refrain from a smile at this unqualified opening endeavoured to divert to some other subject the grave astonishment of Dr Orkborne who previously aware of the age and ill health of the baronet naturally concluded himself called upon to solace the privacy of his life by reading or discourse but suggested not the most distant surmise he could be summoned as a preceptor
Sir Hugh however far from palliating any design disguised not even a feeling he plunged deeper and deeper in the acknowledgment of his ignorance and soon set wholly apart the delicate circumspection of his brother by demanding of Dr Orkborne what book he thought he had best buy for a beginning
Receiving from the wondering Doctor no answer he good humouredly added Come dont be ashamed to name the easiest for this reason you must know my plan is one of my own which it is right to tell you As fast as I get on I intend for the sake of remembering my lesson to send for one of my nephews and teach it all over again to him myself which will be doing service to us all at once
Mr Tyrold now though for a few moments he looked down thought it best to leave the matter to its own course and Dr Orkborne to his own observations fully persuaded that the smiles Sir Hugh might excite would be transient and that no serious or lasting ridicule could be attached to his character in the mind of a worthy man to whom time and opportunity would be allowed for an acquaintance with its habitual beneficence He excused himself therefore from staying any longer somewhat to the distress of Dr Orkborne but hardly with the notice of the baronet whose eagerness in his new pursuit completely engrossed him
His late adventure and his new heiress now tormented him no more Indiana was forgotten Camilla but little thought of and his whole mind became exclusively occupied by this fruitful expedient for retrieving his lost time
Dr Orkborne whose life had been spent in any study rather than that of human nature was so little able to enter into the character of Sir Hugh that nothing less than the respect he knew to be due to Mr Tyrold could have saved him upon his first reception from a suspicion that he had been summoned in mere mockery The situation however was peculiarly desirable to him and the experiment in the beginning corresponded with the hopes of Mr Tyrold Placed suddenly in ease and affluence Dr Orkborne with the most profound desire to please sought to sustain so convenient a post by obliging the patron whom he soon saw it would be vain to attempt improving while Sir Hugh in return professed himself the most fortunate of men that he had now met with a scholar who had the good nature not to despise him
Relief from care thus combining with opportunity Dr Orkborne was scarce settled ere he determined upon the execution of a long critical and difficult work in philology which he had often had in contemplation but never found leisure to undertake By this means he had a constant resource for himself and the baronet observing that time never hung heavy upon his hands conceived a yet higher admiration of learning and felt his spirits proportionably reanimated by the fair prospect of participating in such advantages
From this dream however he was soon awakened a parcel by the direction of Dr Orkborne arrived from his bookseller with materials for going to work
Sir Hugh then sent off a message to the parsonagehouse informing his brother and his family that they must not be surprised if they did not see or hear of him for some time as he had got his hands quite full and should be particularly engaged for a week or two to come
Dr Orkborne still but imperfectly conceiving the extent either of the plan or of the simplicity of his new pupil proposed as soon as the packet was opened that they should read together but Sir Hugh replied that he would do the whole in order and by no means skip the rudiments
The disappointment which followed may be easily imagined with neither quickness to learn nor memory to retain he aimed at being initiated in the elements of a dead language for which youth only can find time and application and even youth but by compulsion His head soon became confused his ideas were all perplexed his attention was vainly strained and his faculties were totally disordered
Astonished at his own disturbance which he attributed solely to not getting yet into the right mode he laughed off his chagrin but was steady in his perseverance and continued wholly shut up from his family and friends with a zeal worthy better success
Lesson after lesson however only aggravated his difficulties till his intellects grew so embarrassed he scarce knew if he slept or waked His nights became infected by the perturbation of the day his health visibly suffered from the restlessness of both and all his flattering hopes of new and unknown happiness were ere long exchanged for despair
He now sent for his brother and desired to speak with him alone when catching him fast by the hand and looking piteously in his face Do you know my dear brother he cried I find myself turning out as sheer a blockhead as ever for all I have got so many more years over my head than when I began all this hard jingle jangle before
Mr Tyrold with greater concern than surprise endeavoured to reassure and console him by pointing out a road more attainable for reaping benefit from the presence of Dr Orkborne than the impracticable path into which he had erroneously entered
Ah no my dear brother he answered if I dont succeed this way I am sure I shall succeed no other for as to pains I could not have taken more if I had been afraid to be flogged once aday and that gentleman has done all he can too as far as I know to the contrary But I really think whatevers the meaning of it theres some people cant learn
Then shaking his head he added in a low voice To say the truth I might as well have given it up from the very first for any great comfort I found in it if it had not been for fear of hurting that gentleman however dont let the poor gentleman know that for Ive no right to turn him off upon nothing merely for the fault of my having no head which how can he help
Mr Tyrold agreed in the justice of this reflection and undertook to deliberate upon some conciliatory expedient
Sir Hugh heartily thanked him But only in the mean time that you are thinking cried he how shall I bring it about to stop him from coming to me with all those books for my study For do you know my dear brother because I asked him to buy me one for my beginning he sent for a full score And when he comes to me about my lesson he brings them all upon me together which is one thing for ought I know that helps to confuse me for I am wondering all the while when I shall get through with them However say nothing of all this before the poor gentleman for fear he should take it as a hint which might put him out of heart for which reason Id rather take another lesson Lord help me—than vex him
Mr Tyrold promised his best consideration and to see him again the next morning But he had hardly left Cleves ten minutes when a man and horse came galloping after him with a petition that he would return without delay
The baronet received him with a countenance renovated with selfcomplacency I wont trouble you he cried to think any more for now I have got a plan of my own which I will tell you Not to throw this good gentleman entirely away I intend having a sort of a kind of school set up here in my sick room and so to let all my nephews come and say their tasks to him in my hearing and then who knows but I may pick up a little amongst them myself without all this hard study
Mr Tyrold stated the obvious objections to so wild a scheme but he besought him not to oppose it as there was no other way for him to get rid of his tutoring without sending off Dr Orkborne He desired therefore that Lionel might come instantly to Cleves saying I shall write myself to Eton by the means of the Doctor to tell the Master I shall take Clermont entirely home after the next holidays for the sake of having him study under my own eye
He then entreated him to prepare Dr Orkborne for his new avocation
Mr Tyrold who saw that in this plan the inventor alone could be disappointed made no further remonstrance and communicated the design to Dr Orkborne who growing now deeply engaged in his own undertaking was perfectly indifferent to whom or to what his occasional attendance might be given
CHAPTER V
Schooling of a young Gentleman
Mrs Tyrold expressed much astonishment that her husband could afford any countenance to this new plan Your expectations from it she cried can be no higher than my own you have certainly some influence with your brother why then will you suffer him thus egregiously to expose himself
I cannot protect his pride answered Mr Tyrold at the expence of his comfort His faculties want some object his thoughts some employment Inaction bodily and intellectual pervading the same character cannot but fix disgust upon every stage and every state of life Vice alone is worse than such double inertion Where mental vigour can be kept alive without offence to religion and virtue innocence as well as happiness is promoted and the starter of difficulties with regard to the means which point to such an end inadvertently risks both To save the mind from preying inwardly upon itself, it must be encouraged to some outward pursuit There is no other way to elude apathy or escape discontent none other to guard the temper from that quarrel with itself, which ultimately ends in quarrelling with all mankind
But may you not by refusing to send him your son induce him to seek recreation in some more rational way
Recreation my dear Georgiana must be spontaneous Bidden pleasures fly the perversity of our tastes Let us take care then scrupulously of our duties but suffer our amusements to take care of themselves A project a pastime such as this is at least as harmless as it is hopeless since the utmost sport of wit or acrimony of malice can only fasten a laugh upon it and how few are the diversions of the rich and indolent that can so lightly be acquitted
Lionel the new young student speedily though but little to her satisfaction abetted the judgment of his mother He was no sooner summoned to Cleves than enchanted to find himself a fellowpupil with his uncle he conceived the highest ideas of his own premature genius and when this vanity from the avowed ignorance of the artless baronet subsided it was only replaced by a sovereign contempt of his new associate He made the most pompous display of his own little acquirements he took every opportunity to ask questions of Sir Hugh which he knew he could not answer and he would sometimes with an arch mock solemnity carry his exercise to him and beg his assistance
Sir Hugh bore this juvenile impertinence with unshaken good humour But the spirits of Lionel were too mutinous for such lenity he grew bolder in his attacks and more fearless of consequences and in a very short time his uncle seemed to him little more than the butt at which he might level the shafts of his rising triumph till tired at length though not angry the baronet applied to Dr Orkborne and begged he would teach him out of hand some small little smattering of Latin sentences by which he might make the young pedant think better of him
Dr Orkborne complied and wrote him a few brief exercises but these after toiling day and night to learn he pronounced so ill and so constantly misapplied that far from impressing his fellowlabourer with more respect the moment he uttered a single word of his new lesson the boy almost rolled upon the floor with convulsive merriment
Sir Hugh with whom these phrases neither lost nor gained by mistaking one word for another appealed to Dr Orkborne to remedy what he conceived to be an unaccountable failure Dr Orkborne absorbed in his new personal pursuit to which he daily grew more devoted was earnest to be as little as possible interrupted and therefore only advised him to study his last lesson before he pressed for any thing new
Study however was unavailing and he heard this injunction with despair but finding it constantly repeated upon every application for help he was seized again with a horror of the whole attempt and begged to consult with Mr Tyrold
This gentleman you have recommended to me for my tutor he cried is certainly a great scholar I dont mean to doubt that the least in the world being no judge and he is complaisant enough too considering all that but yet I have rather a suspicion he is afraid I shall make no hand of it which is a thing so disheartening to a person in the line of improvement that to tell you the honest truth I am thinking of giving the whole up at a blow for Lord help me what shall I be the better for knowing Latin and Greek Its not worth a mans while to think of it after being a boy And so if you please Id rather youd take Lionel home again
Mr Tyrold agreed but asked what he meant to do further concerning the Doctor
Why that brother is the very thing my poor ignorant head wants your advice for because as to that plan about our learning all together I see it wont do for either the boys will grow up to be no better scholars than their uncle which is to say none at all or else theyll hold everybody cheap when they meet with a person knowing nothing so Ill have no more hand in it And I shall really be glad enough to get such a thing off my mind for its been weight enough upon it from the beginning
He then desired the opinion of Mr Tyrold what step he should take to prevent the arrival of Clermont Lynmere whom he said he dreaded to see being determined to have no more little boys about him for some time to come
Mr Tyrold recommended resettling him at Eton but Sir Hugh declared he could not possibly do that because the poor little fellow had written him word he was glad to leave school And I dont doubt he added but hell make the best figure of us all because I had him put in the right mode from the first though I must needs own I had as lieve see him a mere dunce all his life supposing I should live so long which God forbid in regard to his dying as have him turn out a mere coxcomb of a pedant laughing and grinning at everybody that cant spell a Greek noun
Mr Tyrold promised to take the matter into consideration but early the next morning the baronet again summoned him and joyfully made known that a scheme had come into his own head which answered all purposes In the first place he said he had really taken so prodigious a dislike to learning that he was determined to send Clermont over the seas to finish his Greek and Latin not because he was fond of foreign parts but for fear if he should let him come to Cleves the great distaste he had now conceived against those sort of languages might disgust the poor boy from his book And he had most luckily recollected in the middle of the night that he had a dear friend one Mr Westwyn who was going the very next month to carry his own son to Leipsic which was just what had put the thought into his head because by that means Clermont might be removed from one studying place to tother without loss of time
But for all that he continued as this good gentleman here has been doing no harm I wont have him become a sufferer for my changing my mind and so not to affront him by giving him nothing to do which would be like saying You may go your ways I intend he should try Indiana
Observing Mr Tyrold now look with the extremest surprise he added To be sure being a girl it is rather out of the way but as there is never another boy what can I do Besides I shant so much mind her getting a little learning because shes not likely to make much hand of it And this one thing I can tell you which I have learnt of my own accord Ill never press a person to set about studying at my time of life as long as I live knowing what a plague it is
Lionel returned to Etherington with his father and the rest of the scheme was put into execution without delay Mr Westwyn conveyed Clermont from Eton to Leipsic where he settled him with the preceptor and masters appointed for his own son and Dr Orkborne was desired to become the tutor of Indiana
At first quitting his learned residence the Doctor might indignantly have blushed at the proposition of an employment so much beneath his abilities but he now heard it without the smallest emotion sedately revolving in his mind that his literary work would not be affected by the ignorance or absurdity of his several pupils
CHAPTER VI
Tuition of a young Lady
The fair Indiana participated not in the philosophy of her preceptor The first mention of taking lessons produced an aversion unconquerable to their teacher and the first question he asked her at the appointed hour for study was answered by a burst of tears
To Dr Orkborne this sorrow would have proved no impediment to their proceeding as he hardly noticed it but Sir Hugh extremely affected kindly kissed her and said he would beg her off for this time The next day however gave rise but to a similar scene and the next which followed would precisely have resembled it had not the promise of some new finery of attire dispersed the pearly drops that were preparing to fall
The uncommon beauty of Indiana had made her infancy adored and her childhood indulged by almost all who had seen her The brilliant picture she presented to the eye by her smiles and her spirits rendered the devastation caused by crying pouting or fretfulness so striking and so painful to behold that not alone her uncle but every servant in the house and every stranger who visited it granted to her lamentations whatever they demanded to relieve their own impatience at the loss of so pleasing an image Accustomed therefore never to weep without advantage she was in the constant habit of giving unbridled vent to her tears upon the smallest contradiction well knowing that not to spoil her pretty eyes by crying was the current maxim of the whole house
Unused by this means to any trouble or application the purposed tuition of Dr Orkborne appeared a burden to her intolerable yet weeping her standing resource was with him utterly vain her tears were unimportant to one who had taken no notice of her smiles and intent upon his own learned ruminations he never even looked at her
Bribery day after day could procure but a few instants attention given so unwillingly and so speedily withdrawn that trinkets dress and excursions were soon exhausted without the smallest advancement The general indulgence of the baronet made partial favours of small efficacy and Indiana was sooner tired of receiving than he of presenting his offerings
She applied therefore at length to the governess whose expostulations she knew by experience were precisely what Sir Hugh most sedulously aimed to avoid
Miss Margland was a woman of family and fashion but reduced through the gaming and extravagance of her father to such indigence that after sundry failures in higher attempts she was compelled to acquiesce in the good offices of her friends which placed her as a governess in the house of Sir Hugh
To Indiana however she was but nominally a tutress neglected in her own education there was nothing she could teach though born and bred in the circle of fashion she imagined she had nothing to learn And while a mind proudly shallow kept her unacquainted with her own deficiencies her former rank in society imposed an equal ignorance of them upon Sir Hugh But notwithstanding he implicitly gave her credit for possessing whatever she assumed he found her of a temper so unpleasant and so irritable to offence that he made it a rule never to differ from her The irksomeness of this restraint induced him to keep as much as possible out of her way though respect and pity for her birth and her misfortunes led him to resolve never to part with her till Indiana was married
The spirit of Miss Margland was as haughty as her intellects were weak and her disposition was so querulous that in her constant suspicion of humiliation she seemed always looking for an affront and ready primed for a contest
She seized with pleasure the opportunity offered her by Indiana of remonstrating against this new system of education readily allowing that any accomplishment beyond what she had herself acquired would be completely a work of supererogation She represented dictatorily her objections to the baronet Miss Lynmere she said though both beautiful and well brought up could never cope with so great a disadvantage as the knowledge of Latin Consider Sir she cried what an obstacle it will prove to her making her way in the great world when she comes to be of a proper age for thinking of an establishment What gentleman will you ever find that will bear with a learned wife except some mere downright fogrum no young lady of fashion could endure
She then spoke of the danger of injuring her beauty by study and ran over all the qualifications really necessary for a young lady to attain which consisted simply of an enumeration of all she had herself attempted a little music a little drawing and a little dancing which should all she added be but slightly pursued to distinguish a lady of fashion from an artist
Sir Hugh a good deal disturbed because unable to answer her thought it would be best to interest Dr Orkborne in his plan and to beg him to reconcile her to its execution He sent therefore a message to the Doctor to beg to speak with him immediately
Dr Orkborne promised to wait upon him without delay but he was at that moment hunting for a passage in a Greek author and presently forgot both the promise and the request
Sir Hugh concluding nothing but sickness could detain him went to his apartment where finding him perfectly well he stared at him a moment and then sitting down begged him to make no apology for he could tell his business there as well as any where else
He gave a long and copious relation of the objections of Miss Margland earnestly begging Dr Orkborne would save him from such another harangue it being bad for his health by undertaking to give her the proper notion of things himself
The Doctor who had just found the passage for which he had been seeking heard not one word that he said
Sir Hugh receiving no answer imagined him to be weighing the substance of his narration and therefore bidding him not worry his brain too much offered him half an hour to fix upon what should be done and returned quietly to his own room
Here he sat counting the minutes with his watch in his hand till the time stipulated arrived but finding Dr Orkborne let it pass without any notice he again took the trouble of going back to his apartment
He then eagerly asked what plan he had formed
Dr Orkborne much incommoded by this second interruption coldly begged to know his pleasure
Sir Hugh with great patience though much surprise repeated the whole word for word over again but the history was far too long for Dr Orkborne whose attention after the first sentence or two was completely restored to his Greek quotation which he was in the act of transcribing when Sir Hugh reentered the room
The baronet at length more categorically said Dont be so shy of speaking out Doctor though I am afraid by your silence youve rather a notion poor Indiana will never get on which perhaps makes you think it not worth while contradicting Mrs Margland Come speak out—Is that the case with the poor girl
Yes sir answered Dr Orkborne with great composure though perfectly unconscious of the proposition to which he assented
Lack aday if I was not always afraid she had rather a turn to being a dunce So its your opinion it wont do then
Yes sir again replied the Doctor his eye the whole time fastened upon the passage which occupied his thoughts
Why then we are all at a stand again This is worse than I thought for So the poor dear girl has really no head—Hay Doctor—Do speak pray—Dont mind vexing me Say so at once if you cant help thinking it
Another extorted Yes sir completely overset Sir Hugh who imputing the absent and perplexed air with which it was pronounced to an unwillingness to give pain shook him by the hand and quitting the room ordered his carriage and set off for Etherington
Oh brother he cried Indianas the best girl in the world as well as the prettiest but do you know Dr Orkborne says she has got no brains So theres an end of that scheme However I have now thought of another that will settle all differences
Mr Tyrold hoped it was an entire discontinuance of all pupilage and tutorship and that Dr Orkborne might henceforth be considered as a mere family friend
No no my dear brother no tis a better thing than that as you shall hear You must know I have often been concerned to think how glum poor Clermont will look when he hears of my will in favour of Eugenia which was my chief reason in my own private mind for not caring to see him before he went abroad but I have made myself quite easy about him now by resolving to set little Eugenia upon learning the classics
Eugenia and of what benefit will that prove to Clermont
Why as soon as she grows a little old that is to say a young woman I intend with your good will and my sisters to marry her to Clermont
Mr Tyrold smiled but declared his entire concurrence if the young people when they grew up wished for the alliance
As to that said he I mean to make sure work by having them educated exactly to fit one another. I shall order Clermont to think of nothing but his studies till the proper time and as to Eugenia I shall make her a wife after his own heart by the help of this gentleman for I intend to bid him teach her just like a man which as shes so young may be done from the beginning the same as if she was a boy
He then enumerated the advantages of this project which would save Clermont from all disappointment by still making over to him his whole fortune with a wife ready formed into a complete scholar for him into the bargain It would also hinder Eugenia from being a prey to some sop for her money who being no relation could not have so good a right to it and it would prevent any affront to Dr Orkborne by keeping him a constant tight task in hand
Mr Tyrold forbore to chagrin him with any strong expostulation and he returned therefore to Cleves in full glee He repaired immediately to the apartment of the Doctor who only by what was now said was apprized of what had passed before Somewhat therefore alarmed to understand that the studies of Indiana were to be relinquished he exerted all the alacrity in his power for accepting his new little pupil not from any idea of preference for he concluded that incapacity of Indiana to be rather that of her sex than of an individual but from conceiving that his commodious abode at Cleves depended upon his retaining one scholar in the family Eugenia therefore was called and the lessons were begun
The little girl who was naturally of a thoughtful turn and whose state of health deprived her of most childish amusements was well contented with the arrangement and soon made a progress so satisfactory to Dr Orkborne that Sir Hugh letting his mind now rest from all other schemes became fully and happily occupied by the prosecution of his last suggestion
CHAPTER VII
Lost Labour
From this period the families of Etherington and Cleves lived in the enjoyment of uninterrupted harmony and repose till Eugenia the most juvenile of the set had attained her fifteenth year
Sir Hugh then wrote to Leipsic desiring his nephew Lynmere to return home without delay Not that I intend he said to Mr Tyrold marrying them together at this young age Eugenia being but a child except in point of Latin though I assure you my dear brother shes the most sensible of the whole poor Indiana being nothing to her for all her prettiness but the thing is the sooner Clermont comes over the sooner they may begin forming the proper regard
The knowledge of this projected alliance was by no means confined to Sir Hugh and Mr and Mrs Tyrold it was known throughout the family though never publicly announced and understood from her childhood by Eugenia herself though Mrs Tyrold had exerted her utmost authority to prevent Sir Hugh from apprizing her of it in form It was nevertheless the joy of his heart to prepare the young people for each other and his scheme received every encouragement he could desire from the zeal and uncommon progress in her studies made by Eugenia which most happily corresponded with all his injunctions to Leipsic for the application and acquirements of Clermont
Thus circumstanced it was a blow to him the most unexpected to receive from the young bridegroom elect in answer to his summons home a petition to make the tour of Europe while yet on the continent
What cried Sir Hugh and is this all his care for us after so many years separation from his kin and kind has he no natural longings to see his native land no yearnings to know his own relations from strangers
Eugenia notwithstanding her extreme youth secretly applauded and admired a search of knowledge she would gladly have participated in though she was not incurious to see the youth she considered as her destined partner for life and to whom all her literary labours had been directed for the neverfailing method of Sir Hugh to stimulate her if she was idle had been to assure her that unless she worked harder her cousin Clermont would eclipse her
She had now acquired a decided taste for study which however unusual for her age most fortunately rescued from weariness or sadness the sedentary life which a weak state of health compelled her to lead This induced her to look with pleasure upon Clermont as the object of her emulation and to prosecute every plan for her improvement with that vigour which accompanies a pursuit of our own choice the only labour that asks no relaxation
Steady occupations such as these kept off all attention to her personal misfortunes which Sir Hugh had strictly ordered should never be alluded to first he said for fear they should vex her and next lest they should make her hate him for being their cause Those incidents therefore from never being named glided imperceptibly from her thoughts and she grew up as unconscious as she was innocent that though born with a beauty which surpassed that of her lovely sisters disease and accident had robbed her of that charm ere she knew she possessed it But neither disease nor accident had power over her mind there in its purest proportions moral beauty preserved its first energy The equanimity of her temper made her seem though a female born to be a practical philosopher her abilities and her sentiments were each of the highest class uniting the best adorned intellects with the best principled virtues
The dissatisfaction of Sir Hugh with his nephew reached not to prohibition his consent was painful but his remittances were generous and Clermont had three years allowed him for his travels through Europe
Yet this permission was no sooner granted than the baronet again became dejected Three years appeared to him to be endless he could hardly persuade himself to look forward to them with expectation of life and all the learned labours he had promoted seemed vain and unpromising ill requiting his toils and still less answering his hopes Even the studious turn of Eugenia hitherto his first delight he now thought served but to render her unsociable and the time she devoted to study he began to regret as lost to himself nor could he suggest any possible consolation for his drooping spirits till it occurred to him that Camilla might again enliven him
This idea and the order for his carriage were the birth of the same moment and upon entering the study of Mr Tyrold he abruptly exclaimed My dear brother I must have Camilla back Indiana says nothing to amuse me and Eugenia is so bookish I might as well live with an old woman which God forbid I should object to only I like Camilla better
This request was by no means welcome to Mr Tyrold and utterly distasteful to his lady Camilla was now just seventeen years of age and attractively lovely but of a character that called for more attention to its developement than to its formation though of a disposition so engaging that affection kept pace with watchfulness and her fond parents knew as little for their own sakes as for hers how to part with her
Her qualities had a power which without consciousness how or consideration why governed her whole family The airy thoughtlessness of her nature was a source of perpetual amusement and if sometimes her vivacity raised a fear for her discretion the innocence of her mind reassured them after every alarm The interest which she excited served to render her the first object of the house it was just short of solicitude yet kept it constantly alive Her spirits were volatile but her heart was tender her gaiety had a fascination her persuasion was irresistible
To give her now up to Sir Hugh seemed to Mrs Tyrold rather impossible than disagreeable but he was too urgent with his brother to be wholly refused She was granted him therefore as a guest for the three ensuing months to aid him to dissipate his immediate disappointment from the procrastinated absence of Clermont
Sir Hugh received back his first favourite with all the fond glee of a ductile imagination which in every new good sees a refuge from every past or present evil But as the extremest distaste of all literature now succeeded those sanguine views which had lately made it his exclusive object the first words he spoke upon her arrival were to inform her she must learn no Latin and the first step which followed her welcome was a solemn charge to Dr Orkborne that he must give her no lessons
The gaiety the spirit the playful good humour of Camilla had lost nothing of their charm by added years though her understanding had been sedulously cultivated and her principles modelled by the pure and practical tenets of her exemplary parents The delight of Sir Hugh in regaining her consisted not merely of the renovation of his first prejudice in her favour it was strengthened by the restoration it afforded his own mind to its natural state and the relief of being disburthened of a task he was so ill calculated to undertake as superintending in any sort intellectual pursuits
BOOK II
CHAPTER I
New Projects
The baronet would at length have enjoyed perfect contentment had he not been molested by the teasing spirit of Miss Margland now daily at work in proposing a journey to London and in representing as an indispensable duty that the young ladies should see and be seen in a manner suitable to their situation in life
Miss Margland equally void either of taste or of resources for the country had languished and fretted away twelve years in its bosom with no other opening to any satisfaction beyond a maintenance except what she secretly nourished in her hopes that when her beautiful pupil was grown up she should accompany her to the metropolis Her former connections and acquaintance in high life still continued to be the stationary pride of her heart the constant theme of her discourse and the perpetual allusion of some lamentation and regret This excursion therefore in prospect had been her sole support during her retirement nor had she failed to instruct her fair disciple to aid her scheme though she had kept from her its private motive
Most successfully indeed had she instilled into the youthful breast of Indiana a wondering curiosity to see the place which she described as the sole residence of elegance and fashion and an eager impatience to exhibit there a person which she was assured would meet with universal homage
But neither the exhortations of the governess nor the wishes of her pupil could in this point move Sir Hugh He had a fixt aversion to London and to all public places and had constantly some disaster to relate of every visit he had accidentally made to them The amusements which had decided his partiality for the country were now indeed no longer within his reach but his sanguine temper which occasionally entertained him with hopes of a recovery determined him always to keep upon the right spot he said for sport in the case of any sudden and favourable change in his health
Upon the visit of Camilla Miss Margland grew yet more urgent expecting through her powerful influence to gain her point She strove therefore to engage her intercession but Camilla careless easy and gay had no wish about the matter and could not be brought into the cabal
This disappointment so much soured and provoked Miss Margland that she lost the usual discretion she had hitherto practised of confining her remonstrances to those times when she saw Sir Hugh alone Such opportunities indeed weary of the use she made of them the baronet contrived daily to lessen but every meeting now whether public or private was seized alike for the same purpose and the necessity of bringing the young ladies out and the duty of thinking of their establishment were the sentences with which he was so regularly assailed that the moment he saw her he prepared to hear them and commonly with a heavy sigh anticipated their fatigue to his spirits
No arguments however relative to disposing of the young ladies had any weight with him he had long planned to give Eugenia to Clermont Lynmere and he depended upon Edgar Mandlebert for Indiana while with regard to Camilla to keep her unmarried that he might detain her under his own roof was the favourite wish of his heart Nevertheless this perpetual persecution became by degrees insupportable and unused to be deaf to any claimant he was upon the point of constrained compliance when his passion for forming schemes came again to his aid upon hearing that Edgar Mandlebert after a twelvemonths absence was just returned to Etherington
This youth had been making the tour of England Wales and Scotland with Dr Marchmont who had been induced by Mr Tyrold to relinquish all other avocations and devote to him his whole time
Sir Hugh hastening upon this news to the parsonagehouse said Dont imagine brother I am going to make any complaint against Mrs Margland for she is an excellent governess and I have no fault to find with her except her making too many objections which I take to be her worst part but as every body has something it would be very unfair to quarrel with her for such a mere nothing especially as she cant help it after so many years going on the same way without coming to a stop but the thing I have thought of now may set it all to rights which I hope youll approve and especially my sister
He then explained that as he had fixt upon marrying Eugenia to Clermont Lynmere she was put so completely under the care of Dr Orkborne in order to make her fit for the young scholar that Miss Margland was of little or no use to her He meant therefore to bring forward immediately the marriage of Indiana with young Mandlebert and then to ask Miss Margland to go and live with them entirely as he could very well spare her This he continued Indiana cant object to from the point of having had her so long and young Mr Edgars remarkably complaisant for such a young youth which I saw a great while ago By this means Mrs Margland will get her main end of going to London which she may show off to the young bride without my budging from home Lord help me being a thing I dont much like to be taken about to dances and shews now that I am not a boy so then Camilla will be left to stay with me for my own companion which I assure you I desire no better though she knows no more as the Doctor tells me of the classics than my old spaniel which to give every one his due is much the same with myself
Mr Tyrold with a very unpleasant astonishment enquired further into his meaning concerning Mandlebert but his surprise ended in a smile when he heard the juvenile circumstances upon which alone Sir Hugh built his expectations To argue with him however was always fruitless he had found out he said the intentions of Edgar from the first and he came now to invite him to pass a month at Cleves for the sake of cutting the courtship short by letting him see Indiana every day so that no time might be lost in coming to the conclusion
The first wish of the secret heart of Mr Tyrold was that one of his own daughters should be the choice of his ward he did not therefore totally unmoved hear this project for Indiana though its basis was so little alarming
Edgar who was now just of age was receiving the last cares of his guardian and taking into his own hands his fortune and affairs He was at Etherington at present only for that purpose Beech Park being already fitted up for his residence
Sir Hugh desiring to speak with him most cordially made his invitation Besides myself he cried whom I only mention first as being master of the house which I hope is my excuse for it you will meet three very good young girls not to mention Dr Orkborne and Miss Margland who are rather not of the youngest at present whatever they may have been in former times and they will all myself included make you as welcome as themselves
Edgar accepted the proposal with pleasure and agreed to wait upon him the next day Mr Tyrold consenting that they should transact their mutual business at Etherington by morning rides
At dinner Sir Hugh told the family at Cleves the new guest they were so soon to expect assuring them he was become a very fine young gentleman and bidding Indiana with a significant nod hold up her head
Indiana wanted no charge upon this subject she fully understood the views of her uncle and it was now some years since she had heard the name of Beech Park without a smile or a blush
Upon the arrival of the young man Sir Hugh summoned his household to meet him in the hall where he received him with an hearty welcome and in the flutter of his spirits introduced him to them all as if this had been his first appearance in the family remarking that a full week of shyness might be saved by making acquaintance with the whole set in a clump
From eagerness irrepressible he began with Indiana apologising when he had done by saying it was only because she was oldest having the advantage of three weeks over Camilla For which however he added I must beg pardon of Mrs Margland and Dr Orkborne who to be sure must be pretty much older
He next presented him to Camilla and then taking him apart begged in a whisper that he would not seem to notice the ugliness of Eugenia which he said was never mentioned in her hearing by his particular order though to be sure he added since that smallpox shes grown plain enough in point of beauty considering how pretty she was before However shes a remarkable good girl and with regard to Virgil and those others will pose you in a second for aught I know to the contrary being but an indifferent judge in things of that sort from leaving off my own studies rather short on account of the gout besides some other reasons
Edgar assured him these introductions were by no means necessary a single twelvemonths absence being very insufficient to obliterate from his memory his best and earliest friends
Edgar Mandlebert was a young man who if possessed neither of fortune nor its expectations must from his person and his manners have been as attractive to the young as from his morals and his conduct to those of riper years His disposition was serious and meditative but liberal open and candid He was observant of the errors of others and watched till he nearly eradicated his own But though with difficulty he bestowed admiration he diffused both in words and deeds such general amity and good will that if the strictness of his character inspired general respect its virtues could no less fail engaging the kinder mede of affection When to merit of a species so rare were added a fine estate and a large independent fortune it is not easy to decide whether in prosperity or desert he was most distinguished
The first week which he spent at Cleves was passed with a gaiety as unremitting as it was innocent All parties felt his arrival as an acquisition Indiana thought the hour of public exhibition long promised by Miss Margland at length fast approaching Camilla who escaped all expectation for herself from being informed of what was entertained by her cousin enjoyed the tranquil pleasure of undesigning friendship unchequered either by hope or fear Eugenia met with a respect for her acquirements that redoubled her ambition to increase them Sir Hugh looked forward with joy to the happy disposal of Indiana and a blameless riddance of Miss Margland who on her part with an almost boundless satisfaction saw her near return to a town life from the high favour in which she stood with the supposed bride elect even Dr Orkborne though he disdained with so young a scholar to enter into much philological disquisition was gratified by a presence which afforded a little relief to the stores of his burdened memory from authorizing some occasional utterance of the learned recollections which for many years had encumbered it without vent Edgar meanwhile obliging and obliged received pleasure from them all for though not blind to any of their imperfections they had not a merit which he failed to discern
The second week opened with a plan which promised a scene more lively though it broke into the calm retirement of this peaceful party Lionel who was now at Etherington to spend his university vacation rode over to Cleves to inform Edgar that there would be a ball the next evening at Northwick at which the officers of the —— regiment which was quartered in the neighbourhood and all the beaux and belles of the county were expected to assemble
Miss Margland who was present struck with a desire that Indiana might make her first public appearance in the county at a ball where Edgar might be her partner went instantly to Sir Hugh to impart the idea Sir Hugh though averse to all public places consented to the plan from the hope of accelerating the affair but declared that if there was any amusement his little Camilla should not be left out Eugenia won by the novelty of a first expedition of this sort made her own request to be included Lionel undertook to procure tickets and Miss Margland had the welcome labour of arranging their dress for which Sir Hugh to atone for the shortness of the time gave her powers unlimited
Indiana was almost distracted with joy at this event Miss Margland assured her that now was the moment for fixing her conquest of Mandlebert by adroitly displaying to him the admiration she could not but excite in the numerous strangers before whom she would appear she gave her various instructions how to set off her person to most advantage and she delighted Sir Hugh with assurances of what this evening would effect There is nothing Sir said she so conducive towards a right understanding between persons of fashion as a ball A gentleman may spend months and months in this drowsy way in the country and always think one day will do as well as another for his declaration but when he sees a young lady admired and noticed by others he falls naturally into making her the same compliments and the affair goes into a regular train without his almost thinking of it
Sir Hugh listened to this doctrine with every desire to give it credit and though the occupations of the toilette left him alone the whole of the assembly day he was as happy in the prospect of their diversion as they were themselves in its preparation
When the young ladies were ready they repaired to the apartment of the baronet to shew themselves and to take leave Edgar and Lionel were waiting to meet them upon the stairs Indiana had never yet looked so lovely Camilla with all her attractions was eclipsed and Eugenia could only have served as a foil even to those who had no pretensions to beauty
Edgar nevertheless asked Camilla to dance with him she willingly though not without wonder consented Lionel desired the hand of his fair cousin but Indiana selfdestined to Edgar whose address to Camilla she had not heard made him no answer and ran on to present herself to her uncle who struck with admiration as he beheld her cried Indiana my dear you really look prettier than I could even have guessed and yet I always knew there was no fault to be found with the outside nor indeed with the inside neither Mr Mandlebert so I dont mean anything by that only by use one is apt to put the outside first
Lionel was now hurrying them away when Sir Hugh calling to Edgar said Pray young Mr Mandlebert take as much care of her as possible which I am sure you will do of your own accord
Edgar with some surprise answered he should be happy to take whatever care was in his power of all the ladies but added he for my own particular charge tonight I have engaged Miss Camilla
And how came you to do that Dont you know I let them all go on purpose for the sake of your dancing with Indiana which I mean as a particular favour
Sir replied Edgar a little embarrassed you are very good but as Lionel cannot dance with his sisters he has engaged Miss Lynmere himself
Pho pho what do you mind Lionel for not but what hes a very good lad only I had rather have you and Indiana dance together which I dare say so had she
Edgar somewhat distressed looked at Camilla O as to me cried she gaily pray let me take my chance if I should not dance at all the whole will be so new to me that I am sure of entertainment
You are the best good girl without the smallest exception said Sir Hugh that ever I have known in the world and so you always were by which I mean nothing as to Indiana who is just such another except in some points and so heres her hand young Mr Mandlebert and if you think you shall meet a prettier partner at the ball I beg when you get her there you will tell her so fairly and give her up
Edgar who had hardly yet looked at her was now himself struck with the unusual resplendence of her beauty and telling Camilla he saw she was glad to be at liberty protested he could not but rejoice to be spared a decision for himself where the choice would have been so difficult
Well then now go cried the delighted baronet Lionel will find himself a partner I have no doubt because he is nothing particular in point of shyness and as to Camilla shell want nothing but to hear the fiddlers to be as merry as a grig which what it is I never knew so I have no concern added he in a low voice to Edgar except for little Eugenia and poor Mrs Margland for Eugenia being so plain which is no fault of hers on account of the smallpox many a person may overlook her from that objection and as to Mrs Margland being with all these young chickens I am afraid people will think her rather one of the oldest for a dancing match which I say in no disrespect for oldness gives one no choice
CHAPTER II
New Characters
The dancing was not yet begun but the company was met and the sprightly violins were employed to quicken their motions when the Cleves party entered the ball room They were distinguished immediately by a large party of officers who assured Lionel with whom they were acquainted that they had impatiently been expected
I shall recompense you for waiting answered he in a whisper by introducing you to the rich heiress of Cleves who now makes her first appearance from the nursery though no upon farther thoughts I will only tell you she is one of our set and leave it to your own ingenuity to find her out
While this was passing Indiana fluttering with all the secret triumph of conscious beauty attended by Edgar and guarded by Miss Margland walked up the room through a crowd of admiring spectators in whom a new figure without half her loveliness would have excited the same curiosity that her extreme inexperience attributed solely to her peculiar charms Camilla and Eugenia followed rather as if in her train than of her party but Lionel kept entirely with the officers insisting upon their guessing which was the heiress to whom while he purposely misled their conjectures he urged them to make their court by enumerating the present possessions of Sir Hugh and her future expectations
Camilla however passed not long unnoticed though the splendor of Indianas appearance cast her at first on the back ground a circumstance which by impressing her with a sensation of inferiority divested her mind of all personal considerations and gave to her air and countenance a graceful simplicity a disengaged openness and a guileless freedom from affectation that rendered her to the observant eye as captivating upon examination as Indiana from the first glance was brilliant and alluring And thus as they patrolled the room Indiana excited an unmixt admiration Camilla awakened an endless variety of remark while each being seen for the first time and every one else of the company for at least the second all attention was their own whether for criticism or for praise To Indiana this answered in fulfilling her expectations by Camilla it was unheeded for not awaiting she did not perceive it yet both felt equal satisfaction The eyes of Camilla sparkled with delight as she surveyed all around her the gay novelty of the scene the heart of Indiana beat with a pleasure wholly new as she discovered that all surrounding her regarded her as the principal object
Eugenia meanwhile had not even the negative felicity to pass unobserved impertinent witticisms upon her face person and walk though not uttered so audibly as to be distinctly heard ran round the room in a confused murmur and produced a disposition for sneering in the satirical and for tittering in the giddy that made her as valuable an acquisition to the company at large who collect for any amusement indifferent to its nature as her fair cousin proved to the admirers of beauty and her sister to the developers of expression She was shielded however herself from all undeserved mortifications by not suspecting any were meant for her and by a mind delightedly preoccupied with that sudden expansion of ideas, with which new scenery and new objects charm a youthful imagination
When they had taken two or three turns up and down the room the saunterers were called upon to give place to the dancers Edgar then led out Indiana and the master of the ceremonies brought Major Cerwood to Camilla
Eugenia wholly left out became the exclusive charge of Miss Margland she felt no resentment of neglect for she had formed no species of expectation She looked on with perfect contentment and the motley and quick changing group afforded her ample entertainment
Miss Margland was not so passive she seized the opportunity of inveighing very angrily against the mismanagement of Sir Hugh If you had all she cried been taken to town and properly brought out according to my advice such a disgrace as this could never have happened everybody would have known who you were and then there is no doubt you might have had partners enough however I heartily hope you wont be asked to dance all the evening that he may be convinced who was in the right besides the more you are tired the more you may see against another time Miss Eugenia that it is better to listen a little to peoples opinions when they speak only for your own advantage than to go on with just the same indifference as if you had no proper person to consult with
Eugenia was too well amused to heed this remonstrance and long accustomed to hear the voice of Miss Margland without profit or pleasure her ear received its sound but her attention included not its purpose
Indiana and Camilla in this public essay acquitted themselves with all the merits and all the faults common to a first exhibition The spectators upon such occasions though never equally observant are never afterwards so lenient Whatever fails is attributed to modesty more winning than the utmost success of excellence Timidity solicits that mercy which pride is most gratified to grant the blushes of juvenile shame atone for the deficiencies which cause them and awkwardness itself in the unfounded terrors of youth is perhaps more interesting than grace
Indiana could with difficulty keep to the figure of the dance from the exulting yet unpractised certainty of attracting all eyes and Camilla perpetually turned wrong from the mere flutter of fear which made her expect she should never turn right Major Cerwood her partner with a view to encourage her was profuse in his compliments but as new to what she heard as what she performed she was only the more confused by the double claim to her attention
Edgar meanwhile was most assiduous to aid his fair partner Miss Margland though scarcely even superficial in general knowledge was conversant in the practical detail of the hackneyed mode of forming matrimonial engagements she judged therefore rightly that her pupil would be seen to most advantage in the distinction of that adulation by which new beholders would stamp new value on her charms From the time of his first boyish gallantry on the illfated birthday of Camilla Indiana had never so much struck young Mandlebert as while he attended her up the assemblyroom Miss Margland observed this with triumph and prophesied the speediest conclusion to her long and weary sojourn at Cleves in the much wishedfor journey to London with a bride ready made and an establishment ready formed
When the two first dances were over the gentlemen were desired to change partners Major Cerwood asked the hand of Indiana and Edgar repaired to Camilla Do you bear malice he cried with a smile or may I now make the claim that Sir Hugh relinquished for me
O yes answered she with alacrity when informed of the plan of change and I wish there was any body else that would dance with me afterwards instead of that Major
I dare believe said he laughing there are many bodies else who would oblige you if your declaration were heard But what has the Major done to you Has he admired you without knowing how to keep is own counsel
No no only he has treated me like a country simpleton and made me as many fine speeches as if he had been talking to Indiana
You think then Indiana would have swallowed flattery with less difficulty
No indeed but I think the same things said to her would no longer have been so extravagant
Edgar to whom the sunbeams of the mind gave a glow which not all the sparkling rays of the brightest eyes could emit respected her modesty too highly to combat it and dropping the subject enquired what was become of Eugenia
O poor Eugenia cried she I see nothing of her and I am very much afraid she has had no better partner all this time than Miss Margland
Edgar turning round presently discerned her she was still looking on with an air of the most perfect composure examining the various parties totally without suspicion of the examination she was herself sustaining while Miss Margland was vainly pouring in her ears observations or exhortations evidently of a complaining nature
There is something truly respectable said Edgar in the innate philosophy with which she bears such neglect
Yet I wish it were put less to the proof said Camilla I would give the world somebody would take her out
You dont think she would dance
O yes she would her lameness is no impediment for she never thinks of it We all learnt together at Cleves Dancing gives her a little more exertion and therefore a little more fatigue than other people but that is all
After these two dances then—
Will you be her partner interrupted Camilla O go to her at once immediately and you will give me twenty times more pleasure than I can have in dancing myself
She then flew to a form and eagerly seated herself where she perceived the first vacancy to stop any debate and enforce his consent
The dance which had been delayed by a dispute about the tune was now beginning Edgar looking after her with affected reproach but real admiration asked the hand of Eugenia who gave it with readiness and pleasure for though contented as a spectatress she experienced an agreeable surprise in becoming a party engaged
Camilla happy in her own good humour now looked at her neighbours one of which was an elderly lady who wholly employed in examining and admiring the performance of her own daughters saw nothing else in the room The other was a gentleman much distinguished by his figure and appearance and dressed so completely in the extreme of fashion as more than to border upon foppery The ease and negligence of his air denoted a self-settled superiority to all about him yet from time to time there was an archness in the glance of his eye that promised under a deep and wilful veil of conceit and affectation a secret disposition to deride the very follies he was practising He was now lounging against the wainscoat with one hand on his side and the other upon his eyelids occupying the space without using the seat to the left of Camilla
Miss Margland perceiving what she regarded as a fair vacancy made up to the spot and saying Sir by your leave was preparing to take possession of the place when the gentleman as if without seeing her dropt suddenly into it himself and pouring a profusion of eau suave upon his handkerchief exclaimed What a vastly bad room this is for dancing
Camilla concluding herself addressed turned round to him but seeing he was sniffing up the eau suave without looking at her imagined he meant to speak to Miss Margland
Miss Margland was of the same opinion and with some pique at his seizing thus her intended seat rather sharply answered Yes sir and its a vast bad room for not dancing for if every body would dance that ought there would be accommodation sufficient for other people
Incomparably well observed cried he collecting some bonbons from a bonboniere and swallowing one after another with great rapidity But wont you sit down You must be enormously tired Let me supplicate you to sit down
Miss Margland supposing he meant to make amends for his inattention by delivering up the place civilly thanked him and said she should not be sorry for she had stood a good while
Have you indeed cried he sprinkling some jessamine drops upon his hands how horribly abominable Why dont some of those Mercuries those Ganymedes those waiters I believe you call them get you a chair
Miss Margland excessively affronted turned her back to him and Camilla made an offer of her own seat but as she had been dancing and would probably dance again Miss Margland would not let her rise
Shall I call to one of those Barbarians those Goths those Vandals cried the same gentleman who now was spirting lavender water all about him with grimaces that proclaimed forcibly his opinion of the want of perfume in the room Do pray let me harangue them a little for you upon their inordinate want of sensibility
Miss Margland deigned not any answer but of that he took no notice and presently called out though without raising his voice Here Mr Waiter Purveyor Surveyor or whatsoever other title please thine ear art thou deaf why dost not bring this lady a chair Those people are most amazing hard of hearing Shall I call again Waiter I say still speaking rather lower than louder Dont I stun you by this shocking vociferation
Sir youre vastly—obliging cried Miss Margland unable longer to hold silence yet with a look and manner that would much better have accorded with vastly—impertinent
She then pursued a waiter herself and procured a chair
Casting his eyes next upon Camilla he examined her with much attention Abashed she turned away her head but not choosing to lose his object he called it back again by familiarly saying How is Sir Hugh
A good deal surprised she exclaimed Do you know my uncle sir
Not in the least maam he coolly answered
Camilla much wondering was then forced into conversation with Miss Margland but without paying any regard to her surprise he presently said Its most extremely worth your while to take a glance at that inimitably good figure Is it not exquisite Can you suppose any thing beyond it
Camilla looking at the person to whom he pointed and who was sufficiently ludicrous from an air of vulgar solemnity and a dress stiffly new though completely oldfashioned felt disposed to join in his laugh had she not been disconcerted by the mingled liberty and oddity of his attack
Sir said Miss Margland winking at her to be silent though eager to answer in her stead the mixt company one always meets at these public balls makes them very unfit for ladies of fashion for theres no knowing who one may either dance with or speak to
Vastly true maam cried he superciliously dropping his eyes not to look at her
Miss Margland perceiving this bridled resentfully and again talked on with Camilla till another exclamation interrupted them O pray cried he I do entreat you look at that group Is it not past compare If ever you held a pencil in your life I beg and beseech you to take a memorandum of that tall maypole Have you ever seen any thing so excessively delectable
Camilla could not forbear smiling but Miss Margland taking all reply upon herself said Caricatures sir are by no means pleasing for young ladies to be taking at their first coming out one does not know who may be next if once they get into that habit
Immeasurably well spoken maam returned he and rising with a look of disgust he sauntered to another part of the room
Miss Margland extremely provoked said she was sure he was some Irish fortunehunter dressed out in all he was worth and charged Camilla to take no manner of notice of him
When the two second dances were over Edgar conducting Eugenia to Miss Margland said to Camilla Now at least if there is not a spell against it will you dance with me
And if there is one too cried she gaily for I am perfectly disposed to help breaking it
She rose and they were again going to take their places when Miss Margland reproachfully calling after Edgar demanded what he had done with Miss Lynmere
At the same moment led by Major Cerwood who was paying her in full all the arrears of that gallantry Miss Margland had taught her to regret hitherto missing Indiana joined them the Major in making his bow lamenting the rules of the assembly that compelled him to relinquish her hand
Mr Mandlebert said Miss Margland you see Miss Lynmere is again disengaged
Yes maam answered Edgar drawing Camilla away and every gentleman in the room will be happy to see it too
Stop Miss Camilla cried Miss Margland I thought Mr Mandlebert Sir Hugh had put Miss Lynmere under your protection
O it does not signify said Indiana colouring high with a new raised sense of importance I dont at all doubt but one or other of the officers will take care of me
Edgar though somewhat disconcerted would still have proceeded but Camilla alarmed by the frowns of Miss Margland begged him to lead out her cousin and promising to be in readiness for the next two dances glided back to her seat He upbraided her in vain Miss Margland looked pleased and Indiana was so much piqued that he found it necessary to direct all his attention to appeasing her as he led her to join the dance
A gentleman now eminently distinguished by personal beauty approached the ladies that remained and in the most respectful manner began conversing with Miss Margland who received his attentions so gratefully that when he told her he only waited to see the master of the ceremonies at leisure in order to have the honour of begging the hand of one of her young ladies his civilities so conquered all her pride of etiquette that she assured him there was no sort of occasion for such a formality with a person of his appearance and manners and was bidding Camilla rise who was innocently preparing to obey when to the surprise of them all he addressed himself to Eugenia
There cried Miss Margland exultingly when they were gone that gentleman is completely a gentleman I saw it from the beginning How different to that impertinent fop that spoke to us just now He has the politeness to take out Miss Eugenia because he sees plainly nobody else will think of it except just Mr Mandlebert or some such old acquaintance
Major Cerwood was now advancing towards Camilla with that species of smiling and bowing manner which is the usual precursor of an invitation to a fair partner when the gentleman whom Miss Margland had just called an impertinent fop with a sudden swing not to be eluded cast himself between the Major and Camilla as if he had not observed his approach and spoke to her in a voice so low that though she concluded he asked her to dance she could not distinctly hear a word he said
A good deal confused she looked at him for an explanation while the Major from her air of attention supposing himself too late retreated
Her new beau then carelessly seating himself by her side indolently said What a heat I have not the most distant idea how you can bear it
Camilla found it impossible to keep her countenance at such a result of a whisper though she complied with the injunctions of Miss Margland in avoiding mutual discourse with a stranger of so showy an appearance
Yet they are dancing on he continued just as if the Greenland snows were inviting their exercise I should really like to find out what those people are made of Can you possibly imagine their composition
Heedless of receiving no answer he soon after added I am vastly glad you dont like dancing
Me cried Camilla surprised out of her caution
Yes you hold it in antipathy dont you
No indeed far from it
Dont you really cried he starting back thats amazingly extraordinary surprising in the extreme Will you have the goodness to tell me what you like in it
Sir interfered Miss Margland theres nothing but whats very natural in a young ladys taking pleasure in an elegant accomplishment provided she is secure from any improper partner or company
Irrefragably just maam answered he affecting to take a pinch of snuff and turning his head another way
Here Lionel hastily running up to Camilla whispered I have made a fine confusion among the redcoats about the heiress of Cleves I have put them all upon different scents
He was then going back when a faint laugh from the neighbour of Camilla detained him Look I adjure you cried he addressing her if theres not that delightful creature again with his brannew clothes and they sit upon him so tight he cant turn round his vastly droll figure except like a puppet with one jerk for the whole body He is really an immense treat I should like of all things in nature, to know who he can be
A waiter then passing with a glass of water for a lady he stopt him in his way exclaiming Pray my extremely good friend can you tell me who that agreeable person is that stands there with the air of a poker
Yes sir answered the man I know him very well His name is Dubster Hes quite a gentleman to my knowledge and has very good fortunes
Camilla cried Lionel will you have him for a partner And immediately hastening up to him he said two or three words in a low voice and skipped back to the dance
Mr Dubster then walked up to her and with an air conspicuously aukward solemnly said So you want to dance maam
Convinced he had been sent to her by Lionel but by no means chusing to display herself with a figure distinguished only as a mark for ridicule she looked down to conceal her everready smiles and said she had been dancing some time
But if you like to dance again maam said he I am very ready to oblige you
She now saw that this offer had been requested as a favour and while half provoked half diverted grew embarrassed how to get rid of him without involving a necessity to refuse afterwards Edgar and every other for Miss Margland had informed her of the general rules upon these occasions She looked therefore at that lady for counsel while her neighbour sticking his hands in his sides surveyed him from head to foot with an expression of such undisguised amusement that Mr Dubster who could not help observing it cast towards him from time to time a look of the most angry surprise
Miss Margland approving as well understanding the appeal now authoritatively interfered saying Sir I suppose you know the etiquette in public places
The what maam cried he staring
You know I suppose sir that no young lady of any consideration dances with a gentleman that is a stranger to her without hes brought to her by the master of the ceremonies
O as to that maam I have no objection Ill go see for him if youve a mind It makes no difference to me
And away he went
So you really intend dancing with him cried Camillas neighbour Twill be a vastly good sight I have not the most remote conception how he will bear the pulling and jostling about Bend he cannot but I am immensely afraid he will break I would give fifty guineas for his portrait He is indubitably put together without joints
Mr Dubster now returned and with a look of some disturbance said to Miss Margland Maam I dont know which is the master of the ceremonies I cant find him out for I dont know as ever I see him
O pray cried Camilla eagerly do not take the trouble of looking for him twill answer no purpose
Why I think so too maam said he misunderstanding her for as I dont know the gentleman myself he could go no great way towards making us better acquainted with one another: so we may just as well take our skip at once
Camilla now looked extremely foolish and Miss Margland was again preparing an obstacle when Mr Dubster started one himself The worst is cried he I have lost one of my gloves and I am sure I had two when I came I suppose I may have dropt it in the other room If you shant mind it Ill dance without it for I dont mind those things myself of a straw
O sir cried Miss Margland thats such a thing as never was heard of I cant possibly consent to let Miss Camilla dance in such a manner as that
Why then if you like it better maam Ill go back and look for it
Again Camilla would have declined giving him any trouble but he seemed persuaded it was only from shyness and would not listen Though the worst is he said youre losing so much time However Ill give a good hunt unless indeed that gentleman who is doing nothing himself except looking on at us all would be kind enough to lend me his
I rather fancy sir cried the gentleman immediately recovering from a laughing fit and surveying the requester with supercilious contempt I rather suspect they would not perfectly fit you
Why then cried he I think Ill go and ask Tom Hicks to lend me a pair for its a pity to let the young lady lose her dance for such a small trifle as that
Camilla began remonstrating but he tranquilly walked away
You are superlatively in the good graces of fortune tonight cried her new friend superlatively to a degree you may not meet with such an invaluably uncommon object in twenty lustres
Certainly said Miss Margland theres a great want of regulation at balls to prevent low people from asking who they will to dance with them Its bad enough one cant keep people one knows nothing of from speaking to one
Admirably hit off admirable in the extreme he answered suddenly twisting himself round and beginning a whispering conversation with a gentleman on his other side
Mr Dubster soon came again saying somewhat dolorously I have looked high and low for my glove but I am no nearer I dare say somebody has picked it up out of a joke and put it in their pocket And as to Tom Hicks where he can be hid I cant tell unless he has hanged himself for I cant find him no more than my glove However Ive got a boy to go and get me a pair if all the shops ant shut up
Camilla fearing to be involved in a necessity of dancing with him expressed herself very sorry for this step but again misconceiving her motive he begged her not to mind it saying A pair of gloves here or there is no great matter All I am concerned for is putting you off so long from having a little pleasure for I dare say the boy wont come till the next two batches so if that gentleman that looks so particular at me has a mind to jig it with you a bit himself in the interim I wont be his hindrance
Receiving no answer he bent his head lower down and said in a louder voice Pray sir did you hear me
Sir you are ineffably good was the reply without a look or any further notice
Much affronted he said no more but stood pouting and stiff before Camilla till the second dance was over and another general separation of partners took place I thought how it would be maam he then cried for I know its no such easy matter to find shops open at this time of night for if peoples prentices cant take a little pleasure by now they cant never
Tea being at this time ordered the whole party collected to remove to the next room Lionel seeing Mr Dubster standing by Camilla with a rapturous laugh cried Well sister have you been dancing
Camilla though laughing too reproachfully shook her head at him while Mr Dubster gravely said Its no fault of mine sir that the ladys sitting still for I come and offered myself to her the moment you told me she wanted a partner but I happened of the misfortune of losing one of my gloves and not being able to find Tom Hicks Ive been waiting all this while for a boy as has promised to get me a pair though I suppose hes fell down in the dark and broke his skull by his not coming And indeed if that elderly lady had not been so particular I might as well have done without for if I had one on nobody would have been the wiser but that tother might have been in my pocket
This speech spoken without any ceremony in the hearing of Miss Margland to the visible and undisguised delight of Lionel so much enraged her that hastily calling him aside she peremptorily demanded how he came to bring such a vulgar partner to his sister
Because you took no care to get her a better he answered heedlessly
Camilla also began to remonstrate but without hearing her he courteously addressed himself to Mr Dubster and told him he was sure Miss Margland and his sister would expect the pleasure of his company to join their party at tea
Miss Margland frowned in vain Mr Dubster bowed as at a compliment but his due observing he should then be close at hand for his partner and they were proceeding to the tearoom when the finer new acquaintance of Camilla called after Mr Dubster Pray my good sir who may this Signor Thomaso be that has the honour to stand so high in your good graces
Mine sir cried Mr Dubster I know no Signor Thomaso nor Signor nothing else neither so I dont know what you mean
Did not I hear you dilating my very good sir upon a certain Mr Tom somebody
What I suppose then sir if the truth be known you would say Tom Hicks
Very probably sir though I am not of the first accuracy as the gentlemans nomenclator
What dont you know him sir why hes the head waiter
Then following the rest of the party he was placed by the assistance of Lionel next to Camilla in utter defiance of all the angry glances of Miss Margland who herself invited the handsome partner of Eugenia to join their group and reaped some consolation in his willing civilities till the attention of the whole assembly was called or rather commanded by a new object
A lady not young but still handsome with an air of fashion easy almost to insolence with a complete but becoming undress with a workbag hanging on her arm whence she was carelessly knotting entered the ballroom alone and walking straight through it to the large folding glass doors of the tearoom there stopt and took a general survey of the company with a look that announced a decided superiority to all she saw and a perfect indifference to what opinion she incurred in return
She was immediately joined by all the officers and several other gentlemen whose eagerness to shew themselves of her acquaintance marked her for a woman of some consequence though she took little other notice of them than that of giving to each some frivolous commission telling one to hold her workbag bidding another fetch her a chair a third ask for a glass of water and a fourth take care of her cloak She then planted herself just without the foldingdoors declaring there could be no breathing in the smaller apartment and sent about the gentlemen for various refreshments all which she rejected when they arrived with extreme contempt and a thousand fantastic grimaces
The teatable at which Miss Margland presided being nearest to these foldingdoors she and her party heard from time to time most of what was said especially by the newly arrived lady who though she now and then spoke for several minutes in a laughing whisper to some one she called to her side uttered most of her remarks and all her commands quite aloud with that sort of deliberate ease which belongs to the most determined negligence of who heard or who escaped hearing her who were pleased or who were offended
Camilla and Eugenia were soon wholly engrossed by this new personage and Lionel seeing her surrounded by the most fashionable men of the assembly forgot Mr Dubster and his gloves in an eagerness to be introduced to her
Colonel Andover to whom he applied willingly gratified him Give me leave Mrs Arlbery cried he to the lady who was then conversing with General Kinsale to present to you Mr Tyrold
For Heavens sake dont speak to me just now cried she the General is telling me the most interesting thing in the world Go on dear General
Lionel who if guided by his own natural judgment would have conceived this to be the height of illbreeding or of ignorance no sooner saw Colonel Andover bow in smiling submission to her orders than he concluded himself all in the dark with respect to the last licences of fashion and while contentedly he waited her leisure for his reception he ran over in his own mind the triumph with which he should carry to Oxford the newest flourish of the bon ton
In a few minutes after gaily laughing with the General she turned suddenly to Colonel Andover and striking him on the arm with her fan exclaimed Well now Colonel what is it you would say
Mr Tyrold he answered is very ambitious of the honour of being introduced to you
With all my heart Which is he And then nodding to Lionels bow You live I think she added in this neighbourhood By the way Colonel how came you never to bring Mr Tyrold to me before Mr Tyrold I flatter myself you intend to take this very ill
Lionel was beginning to express his sense of the loss he had suffered by the delay when again patting the Colonel Only look I beg you she cried at that insupportable Sir Sedley Clarendel how he sits at his ease there amusing his ridiculous fancy with every creature he sees Yet what an elegant posture the animal has found out I make no doubt he would as soon forfeit his estate as give up that attitude I must make him come to me immediately for that very reason—do go to him good Andover and say I want him directly
The Colonel obeyed but not so the gentleman he addressed who was the new acquaintance of Camilla He only bowed to the message and kissing his hand across the room to the lady desired the Colonel to tell her he was ineffably tired but would incontestably have the honour to throw himself at her feet the next morning
O intolerable cried she he grows more conceited every hour Yet what an agreeable wretch it is Theres nothing like him I cannot possibly do without him Andover tell him if he does not come this moment he kills me
And is that a message said General Kinsale to cure him of being conceited
O Heaven forbid my good General I should cure him That would utterly spoil him His conceit is precisely what enchants me Rob him of that and you lose all hold of him
Is it then necessary to keep him a fop in order to retain him in your chains
O he is not in my chains I promise you A fop my dear General wears no chains but his own However I like to have him because he is so hard to be got and I am fond of conversing with him because he is so ridiculous Fetch him therefore Colonel without delay
This second embassy prevailed he shrugged his shoulders but arose to follow the Colonel
See madam your victory said the General What would not a military man give for such talents of command
Ay but look with what magnificent tardiness he obeys orders There is something quite irresistible in his impertinence tis so conscious and so piquant I think General tis a little like my own
Sir Sedley now advancing seized the back of a chair which he twirled round for a resting place to his elbow and exclaimed You know yourself invincible with an air that shewed him languidly prepared for her reproaches but to his own surprise and that of all around him she only with a smile and a nod cried How do do and immediately turning wholly away from him addressed herself to Colonel Andover desiring him to give her the history of who was in the tearoom
At this time a young Ensign who had been engaged at a late dinner in the neighbourhood stroamed into the ballroom with the most visible marks of his unfitness for appearing in it and in total ignorance of his own condition went up to Colonel Andover and clapping him upon the back called out with a loud oath Colonel I hope you have taken care to secure to me the prettiest little young angel in the room You know with what sincerity I despise an old hag
The Colonel with some concern advised him to retire but insensible to his counsel he uttered oath upon oath and added Im not to be played upon Colonel Beauty in a pretty girl is as necessary an ingredient as honour in a brave soldier and I could find in my heart to sink down to the bottom of the Channel every fellow without one and every dear creature without the other
Then in defiance of all remonstrance he staggered into the tearoom and after a short survey stopt opposite to Indiana and swearing aloud she was the handsomest angel he had ever beheld begged her hand without further ceremony assuring her he had broken up the best party that had yet been made for him in the county merely for the joy of dancing with her
Indiana to whom not the smallest doubt of the truth of this assertion occurred and who not suspecting he was intoxicated thought his manner the most spirited and gallant she had ever seen was readily accepting his offer when Edgar who saw her danger started up and exclaimed This lady sir is engaged to dance the next two dances with me
The lady did not tell me so sir cried the Ensign firing
Miss Lynmere replied Edgar coolly will pardon me that on this occasion my memory has an interest to be better than hers I believe it is time for us to take our places
He then whispered a brief excuse to Camilla and hurried Indiana to the ballroom
The Ensign who knew not that she had danced with him the last time was obliged to submit while Indiana not conjecturing the motive that now impelled Edgar was in a yet brighter blaze of beauty from an exhilarating notion that there was a contest for the honour of her hand
Camilla once more disappointed of Edgar had now no resource against Mr Dubster but the nonarrival of the gloves for he had talked so publicly of waiting for them to dance with her that every one regarded her as engaged
No new proposition being made for Eugenia Miss Margland permitted her again to be led out by the handsome stranger
When she was gone Mr Dubster who kept constantly close to Camilla said They tell me maam that ugly little bodys a great fortune
Camilla very innocently asked who he meant
Why that little lame thing that was here drinking tea with you Tom Hicks says shell have a power of money
Camilla whose sister was deservedly dear to her looked much displeased but Mr Dubster not perceiving it continued He recommended it to me to dance with her myself from the first upon that account But I says to him says I I had no notion that a person who had such a hobble in their gait would think of such a thing as going to dancing But there I was out for as to the women asking your pardon maam theres nothing will put em off from their pleasure But however for my part I had no thought of dancing at all if it had not been for that young gentlemans asking me for Im not over fond of such jiggets as theyve no great use in em only I happened to be this way upon a little matter of business so I thought I might as well come and see the hop as Tom Hicks could contrive to get me a ticket
This was the sort of discourse with which Camilla was regaled till the two dances were over and then begging her to sit still till he came back he quitted her to see what he could do about his gloves
Edgar when he returned with Indiana addressed himself privately to Miss Margland whom he advised to take the young ladies immediately home as it would not be possible for him a second time to break through the rules of the assembly and Indiana must therefore inevitably accept the young Ensign who already was following and claiming her and whose condition was obviously improper for the society of ladies
Miss Margland extremely pleased with him for thus protecting her pupil instantly agreed and collecting her three young charges hastened them down stairs though the young Ensign inflamed with angry disappointment uttered the most bitter lamentations at their sudden departure and though Mr Dubster pursuing them to the coach door called out to Camilla in a tone of pique and vexation Why what are you going for now maam when I have just got a new pair of gloves that I have bought o purpose
CHAPTER III
A Family Breakfast
In their way home Edgar apologised to Camilla for again foregoing the promised pleasure of dancing with her by explaining the situation of the Ensign
Camilla internally persuaded that any reason would suffice for such an arrangement where Indiana was its object, scarce listened to an excuse which she considered as unnecessary
Indiana was eager to view in the glass how her dress and ornaments had borne the shaking of the dance and curiously impatient to look anew at a face and a figure of which no selfvanity nor even the adulation of Miss Margland had taught her a consciousness such as she had acquired from the adventures of this night She hastened therefore to her apartment as soon as she arrived at Cleves and there indulged in an examination which forbade all surprise and commanded equal justice for the admirers and the admired
Miss Margland anxious to make her own report to Sir Hugh accompanied Camilla and Eugenia to his room where he was still sitting up for them
She expatiated upon the behaviour of young Mandlebert in terms that filled the baronet with satisfaction She exulted in the success of her own measures and sinking the circumstance of the intended impartiality of Edgar enlarged upon his dancing out of his turn with Indiana as at an event which manifested his serious designs beyond all possibility of mistake
Sir Hugh in the fulness of his content promised that when the wedding day arrived they should all have as fine new gowns as the bride herself
The next morning not considering that every one else would require unusual repose he got up before his customary hour from an involuntary hope of accelerating his favourite project but he had long the breakfast parlour to himself and became so fatigued and discomfited by fasting and waiting that when Indiana who appeared last but for whom he insisted upon staying entered the room he said My dear I could really find a pleasure in giving you a little scold if it were not for setting a bad example which God forbid And indeed its not so much your fault as the balls to which I can never be a sincere friend unless it be just to answer some particular purpose
Miss Margland defended her pupil and called upon Mandlebert for assistance which he readily gave Sir Hugh then was not merely appeased but gratified and declared the next moment with a marked smile at Indiana that his breakfast he had not relished so well for a twelvemonth owing to the advantage of not beginning till he had got an appetite
Soon after Lionel galloping across the park hastily dismounted and scampered into the parlour
The zealot for every species of sport the candidate for every order of whim was the lighthearted mirthful Lionel A stranger to reflection and incapable of care laughter seemed not merely the bent of his humour but the necessity of his existence he pursued it at all seasons he indulged it upon all occasions With excellent natural parts he trifled away all improvement without any ill temper he spared no ones feelings Yet though not radically vicious nor deliberately malevolent the egotism which urged him to make his own amusement his first pursuit sacrificed his best friends and first duties if they stood in its way
Come my little girls come cried he as he entered the room get your hats and cloaks as fast as possible there is a public breakfast at Northwick and you are all expected without delay
This sudden invitation occasioned a general commotion Indiana gave an involuntary jump Camilla and Eugenia looked delighted and Miss Margland seemed ready to second the proposition; but Sir Hugh with some surprise exclaimed A public breakfast my dear boy why wheres the need of that when we have got so good a private one
O let us go let us go uncle cried Indiana Miss Margland do pray speak to my uncle to let us go
Indeed sir said Miss Margland it is time now in all conscience for the young ladies to see a little more of the world and that it should be known who they are I am sure they have been immured long enough and I only wish you had been at the ball last night sir yourself
Me Mrs Margland Lord help me what should I do at such a thing as that with all this gout in my hip
You would have seen sir the fine effects of keeping the young ladies out of society in this manner Miss Camilla if I had not prevented it would have danced with I dont know who and as to Miss Eugenia she was as near as possible to not dancing at all owing to nobodys knowing who she was
Sir Hugh had no time to reply to this attack from the urgency of Indiana and the impetuosity of Lionel who applying to Camilla said Come child ask my uncle yourself and then we shall go at once
Camilla readily made it her own request
My dear answered Sir Hugh I cant be so unnatural to deny you a little pleasure knowing you to be such a merry little whirligig not but what youd enjoy yourself just as much at home if theyd let you alone However as Indianas head is so much turned upon it for which I beg you wont think the worse of her Mr Mandlebert it being no more than the common fault of a young person no older than her why you must all go I think provided you are not satisfied already which by the breakfast you have made I should think likely enough to be the case
They then eagerly arose and the females hastened to make some change in their dress Sir Hugh calling Eugenia back said As to you my little classic I make but small doubt you will be half ready to break your heart at missing your lesson knowing hic hæc hoc to be dearer to you and for good reasons enough too in the end than all the hopping and skipping in the world so if you had rather stay away dont mind all those dunces for so I must needs call them in comparison to you and Dr Orkborne though without the least meaning to undervalue them
Eugenia frankly acknowledged she had been much amused the preceding evening and wished to be again of the party
Why then if thats the case said the baronet the best way will be for Dr Orkborne to be your squire by which means you may have a little study as you go along to the end that the less time may be thrown away in doing nothing
Eugenia who perceived no objection to this idea assented and went quietly up stairs to prepare for setting out Sir Hugh by no means connecting the laughter of Lionel nor the smile of Edgar with his proposal gravely repeated it to Dr Orkborne adding And if you want a nice pair of gloves Doctor not that I make the offer in any detriment to your own but I had six new pair come home just before my gout which I can assure you have never seen the light since and are as much at your service as if I had bespoke them on purpose
The mirth of Lionel grew now so outrageous that Dr Orkborne much offended walked out of the room without making any answer
There is something cried Sir Hugh after a pause in these men of learning prodigious nice to deal with however not understanding them in point of their maxims its likely enough I may have done something wrong for he could not have seemed much more affronted if I had told him I had six new pair of gloves lying by me which he should be never the better for
When they were all ready Sir Hugh calling to Edgar said Now as I dont much chuse to have my girls go to these sort of places often which is a prudence that I dare say you approve as much as myself I would wish to have the most made of them at once and therefore as Ive no doubt but theyll strike up a dance after having eat what they think proper why I would advise you Mr Mandlebert to let Indiana trip it away till shes heartily tired for else shell never give it up with a good grace of her own accord
Certainly sir answered Edgar I shall not hurry the ladies
O as to any of the rest interrupted Sir Hugh theyll be as soon satisfied as yourself except lowering his voice Mrs Margland who between friends seems to me as glad of one of those freaks as when she was but sixteen which how long it is since she was no more I cant pretend to say being a point she never mentions
Then addressing them in general I wish you a good breakfast he cried with all my heart which I think you pretty well deserve considering you go so far for it with one close at your elbow but just swallowed And so my dear Indiana I hope you wont tire Mr Mandlebert more than cant be avoided
How came you to engage Indiana again Mandlebert cried Lionel in their way to the carriage
Because said Miss Margland finding he hesitated there is no other partner so proper for Miss Lynmere
And pray whats the matter with me why am not I as proper as Mandlebert
Because you are her relation, to be sure
Well cried he vaulting his horse if I meet but the charming widow I shall care for none of you
CHAPTER IV
A Public Breakfast
The unfitting however customary occasion of this speedy repetition of public amusement in the town of Northwick was that the county assizes were now held there and the arrival of the Judges of the land to hear causes which kept life or death suspended was the signal for entertainment to the surrounding neighbourhood a hardening of human feelings against human crimes and human miseries at which reflection revolts however habit may persevere
The young men who rode on first joined the ladies as they entered the town and told them to drive straight to the ballroom where the company had assembled in consequence of a shower of rain which had forced them from the public garden intended for the breakfast
Here as they stopt a poor woman nearly in rags with one child by her side and another in her arms approached the carriage and presenting a petition besought the ladies to read or hear her case Eugenia with the ready impulse of generous affluence instantly felt for her purse but Miss Margland angrily holding her hand said with authority Miss Eugenia never encourage beggars you dont know the mischief you may do by it Eugenia reluctantly desisted but made a sign to her footman to give something for her Edgar then alighting advanced to hand them from the coach while Lionel ran forward to settle their tickets of admittance
The woman now grew more urgent in her supplications and Miss Margland in her remonstrances against attending to them
Indiana who was placed under the care of Edgar enchanted to again display herself where sure of again being admired neither heard nor saw the petitioner but dimpling and smiling quickened her motions towards the assembly room while Camilla who was last stopping short said What is the matter poor woman and took her paper to examine
Miss Margland snatching it from her threw it on the ground peremptorily saying Miss Camilla if once you begin such a thing as that there will be no end to it so come along with the rest of your company like other people
She then haughtily proceeded but Camilla brought up by her admirable parents never to pass distress without inquiry nor to refuse giving at all because she could give but little remained with the poor object and repeated her question The woman shedding a torrent of tears said she was wife to one of the prisoners who was to be tried the next day and who expected to lose his life or be transported for only one bad action of stealing a leg of mutton which though she knew it to be a sin was not without excuse being a first offence and committed in poverty and sickness And this she was told the Judges would take into consideration but her husband was now so ill that he could not feed on the gaol allowance and not having wherewithal to buy any other would either die before his trial or be too weak to make known his sad story in his own behalf for want of some wine or some broth to support him in the meanwhile
Camilla hastily giving her a shilling took one of her petitions and promising to do all in her power to serve her left the poor creature almost choaked with sobbing joy She was flying to join her party when she perceived Edgar at her side I came to see cried he with glistening eyes if you were running away from us but you were doing far better in not thinking of us at all
Camilla accustomed from her earliest childhood to attend to the indigent and unhappy felt neither retreating shame nor parading pride in the office she gave him the petition of the poor woman and begged he would consider if there was any thing that could be done for her husband
I have received a paper from herself he answered before you alighted and I hope I should not have neglected it but I will now take yours that my memory may run no risk
They then went on to the assembly room
The company which was numerous was already seated at breakfast Indiana and Camilla now first surveyed by daylight again attracted all eyes but in the simplicity of undress the superiority of Indiana was no longer wholly unrivalled though the general voice was still strongly in her favour
Indiana was a beauty of so regular a cast that her face had no feature no look to which criticism could point as susceptible of improvement or on which admiration could dwell with more delight than on the rest No statuary could have modelled her form with more exquisite symmetry no painter have harmonised her complexion with greater brilliancy of colouring But here ended the liberality of nature, which in not sullying this fair workmanship by inclosing in it what was bad contentedly left it vacant of whatever was noble and desirable
The beauty of Camilla though neither perfect nor regular had an influence so peculiar on the beholder it was hard to catch its fault and the cynic connoisseur who might persevere in seeking it would involuntarily surrender the strict rules of his art to the predominance of its loveliness Even judgment itself, the coolest and last betrayed of our faculties she took by surprise though it was not till she was absent the seizure was detected Her disposition was ardent in sincerity her mind untainted with evil The reigning and radical defect of her character—an imagination that submitted to no control—proved not any antidote against her attractions it caught by its force and fire the quickkindling admiration of the lively it possessed by magnetic pervasion the witchery to create sympathy in the most serious
In their march up the room Camilla was spoken to by a person from the teatable who was distinct from every other by being particularly ill dressed and who though she did not know him asked her how she did with a familiar look of intimacy She slightly curtsied and endeavoured to draw her party more nimbly on when another person equally conspicuous though from being accoutred in the opposite extreme of full dress quitting his seat formally made up to her and drawing on a stiff pair of new gloves as he spoke said So you are come at last maam I began to think you would not come at all begging that gentlemans pardon who told me to the contrary last night when I thought thinks I here Ive bought these new gloves for no reason but to oblige the young lady and now I might as well not have bought em at all
Camilla ready to laugh yet much provoked at this renewed claim from her old persecutor Mr Dubster looked vainly for redress at the mischievous Lionel who archly answered O ay true sister I told the gentleman last night you would be sure to make him amends this morning for putting him to so much expence
Im sure Sir said Mr Dubster I did not speak for that expence being no great matter to me at this time only nobody likes to fool away their money for nothing
Edgar having now at the end of one of the tables secured places for the ladies Lionel again in defiance of the frowns of Miss Margland invited Mr Dubster to join them even the appealing looks of Camilla served but to increase her brothers ludicrous diversion in coupling her with so ridiculous a companion who without seeming at all aware of the liberty he was taking engrossed her wholly
So I see maam he cried pointing to Eugenia youve brought that limping little body with you again Tom Hicks had like to have took me in finely about her He thought she was the great fortune of these here parts and if it had not been for the young gentleman I might have known no better neither for theres half the room in the same scrape at this minute
Observing Camilla regard him with an unpleasant surprise he more solemnly added I ask pardon maam for mentioning the thing which I only do in excuse for what I said last night not knowing then you was the fortune yourself
An eager sign of silence from Lionel forbade her explaining this mistake Mr Dubster therefore proceeded
When Tom Hicks told me about it I said at the time says I she looks more like to some sort of a humble young person just brought out of a little goodnature to see the company and the like of that for shes not a bit like a lady of fortunes with that nudging look and I said to Tom Hicks by way of joke says I if I was to think of her which I dont think I shall at least she would not be much in my way for she could not follow a body much about because of that hitch in her gait for Im a pretty good walker
Here the ill dressed man who had already spoken to Camilla quitting his seat strolled up to her and fastening his eyes upon her face though without bowing made some speech about the weather with the lounging freedom of manner of a confirmed old acquaintance His whole appearance had an air of even wilful slovenliness His hair was uncombed he was in boots which were covered with mud his coat seemed to have been designedly immersed in powder and his universal negligence was not only shabby but uncleanly Astonished and offended by his forwardness Camilla turned entirely away from him
Not disconcerted by this distance he procured a chair upon which he cast himself perfectly at his ease immediately behind her
Just as the general breakfast was over and the waiters were summoned to clear away the tables and prepare the room for dancing the lady who had so strikingly made her appearance the preceding evening again entered She was alone as before and walked up the room with the same decided air of indifference to all opinion sometimes knotting with as much diligence and earnestness as if her subsistence depended upon the rapidity of her work and at other times stopping short she applied to her eye a nearsighted glass which hung to her finger and intently examined some particular person or group then with a look of absence as if she had not seen a creature she hummed an opera song to herself and proceeded Her rouge was remarkably well put on and her claim to being still a fine woman though past her prime was as obvious as it was conscious Her dress was more fantastic and studied than the night before in the same proportion as that of every other person present was more simple and quiet and the commanding air of her countenance and the easiness of her carriage spoke a confirmed internal assurance that her charms and her power were absolute wherever she thought their exertion worth her trouble
When she came to the head of the room she turned about and with her glass surveyed the whole company then smilingly advancing to the sloven whom Camilla was shunning she called out O are you there what rural deity could break your rest so early
None answered he rubbing his eyes I am invulnerably asleep at this very moment In the very centre of the morphetic dominions But how barbarously late you are I should never have come to this vastly horrid place before my ride if I had imagined you could be so excruciating
Struck with a jargon of which she could not suspect two persons to be capable Camilla turned round to her slighted neighbour and with the greatest surprise recognised upon examination the most brilliant beau of the preceding evening in the worst dressed man of the present morning
The lady now again holding her glass to her eye which she directed without scruple towards Camilla and her party said Who have you got there
Camilla looked hastily away and her whole set abashed by so unseasoned an inquiry cast down their eyes
Hey cried he calmly viewing them as if for the first time himself Why Ill tell you Then making her bend to hear his whisper which nevertheless was by no means intended for her own ear alone he added Two little things as pretty as angels and two others as ugly as—I say no more
O I take in the full force of your metaphor cried she laughing and acknowledge the truth of its contrast
Camilla alone as they meant had heard them and ashamed for herself and provoked to find Eugenia coupled with Miss Margland she endeavoured to converse with some of her own society but their attention was entirely engaged by the whispers nor could she for more than a minute deny her own curiosity the pleasure of observing them
They now spoke together for some time in low voices laughing immoderately at the occasional sallies of each other Sir Sedley Clarendel sitting at his ease Mrs Arlbery standing and knotting by his side
The officers and almost all the beaux began to crowd to this spot but neither the gentleman nor the lady interrupted their discourse to return or receive any salutations Lionel who with much eagerness had quitted an inside seat at a long table to pay his court to Mrs Arlbery could catch neither her eye nor her ear for his bow or his compliment
Sir Sedley at last looking up in her face and smiling said Ant you shockingly tired
To death answered she coolly
Why then I am afraid I must positively do the thing thats old fashioned
And rising and making her a very elegant bow he presented her his seat adding There maam I have the honour to give you my chair—at the risk of my reputation
I should have thought cried Lionel now getting forward that omitting to give it would rather have risked your reputation
It is possible you could be born before all that was over said Mrs Arlbery dropping carelessly upon the chair as she perceived Lionel whom she honoured with a nod How do do Mr Tyrold are you just come in But turning again to Sir Sedley without waiting for his answer I swear you barbarian she cried you have really almost killed me with fatigue
Have I indeed said he smiling
Mr Dubster now leaning over the table solemnly said I am sure I should have offered the lady my own place if I had not been so tired myself but Tom Hicks overpersuaded me to dance a bit before you came in maam addressing Camilla for you have lost a deal of dancing by coming so late for they all fell to as soon as ever they come and as Im not over and above used to it it soon makes one a little stiffish as one may say and indeed the ladys much better off in getting a chair for one sits mighty little at ones ease on these here benches with nothing to lean ones back against
And whos that cried Mrs Arlbery to Sir Sedley looking Mr Dubster full in the face
Sir Sedley made some answer in a whisper which proved highly entertaining to them both Mr Dubster with an air much offended said to Camilla Peoples laughing and whispering which one dont know what its about is not one of the politest things I know for polite people to do and in my mind they ought to be above it
This resentment excited Lionel to join in the laugh and Mr Dubster with great gravity of manner rose and said to Camilla When you are ready to dance maam I am willing to be your partner and I shant engage myself to nobody else but I shall go to tother end of the room till you choose to stand up for I dont much care to stay here only to be laughed at when I dont know what its for
They now all left the table and Lionel eagerly begged permission to introduce his sisters and cousin to Mrs Arlbery who readily consented to the proposal
Indiana advanced with pleasure into a circle of beaux whose eyes were most assiduous to welcome her Camilla though a little alarmed in being presented to a lady of so singular a deportment had yet a curiosity to see more of her that willingly seconded her brothers motion And Eugenia to whose early reflecting mind every new character and new scene opened a fresh fund for thought if not for knowledge was charmed to take a nearer view of what promised such food for observation But Miss Margland began an angry remonstrance against the proceedings of Lionel in thus taking out of her hands the direction of her charges What she urged however was vain Lionel was only diverted by her wrath and the three young ladies as they had not requested the introduction did not feel themselves responsible for its taking effect
Lionel led them on Mrs Arlbery half rose to return their curtsies and gave them a reception so full of vivacity and good humour that they soon forgot the ill will with which Miss Margland had suffered them to quit her and even lost all recollection that it belonged to them to return to her The satisfaction of Indiana indeed flowed simply from the glances of admiration which every where met her eye but Eugenia attended to every word and every motion of Mrs Arlbery with that sort of earnestness which marks an intelligent child at a first play and Camilla still more struck by the novelty of this new acquaintance scarce permitted herself to breathe lest she should lose anything she said
Mrs Arlbery perceived their youthful wonder and felt a propensity to increase it which strengthened all her powers and called forth all her faculties Wit she possessed at will and with exertions which rendered it uncommonly brilliant she displayed it now to them now to the gentlemen with a gaiety so fantastic a raillery so arch a spirit of satire so seasoned with a delight in coquetry and a certain negligence of air so enlivened by a whimsical pleasantry that she could not have failed to strike with admiration even the most hackneyed seekers of character much less the inexperienced young creatures now presented to her who with open eyes and ears regarded her as a phenomenon, upon finding that the splendor of her talents equalled the singularity of her manners
When the room was prepared for dancing Major Cerwood brought to Indiana Mr Macdersey the young Ensign who had so improperly addressed her at the ball and after a formal apology in his name for what had passed begged the honour of her hand for him this morning Indiana flattered and fluttered together by this ceremony almost forgot Edgar who stood quietly but watchfully aloof and was actually giving her consent when meeting his eye she recollected she was already engaged Mr Macdersey hoped for more success another time and Edgar advanced to lead his fair partner to her place
Major Cerwood offered himself to Camilla but Mr Dubster coming forward pulled him by the elbow and making a stiff low bow said Sir I ask your pardon for taking the liberty of giving you such a jog but the young ladys been engaged to me ever so long The Major looked surprised but observing that Camilla coloured he bowed respectfully and retreated
Camilla ashamed of her beau determined not to dance at all though she saw with much vexation upon the general dispersion Miss Margland approach to claim her Educated in all the harmony of contentment and benevolence she had a horror of a temper so irascible that made it a penance to remain a moment in its vicinity Mr Dubster however left her not alone to it when she positively refused his hand he said it was equal agreeable to him to have only a little dish of chat with her and composedly stationed himself before her Eugenia had already been taken out by the handsome stranger with whom she had danced the evening before and Lionel bewitched with Mrs Arlbery enlisted himself entirely in her train and with Sir Sedley Clarendel and almost every man of any consequence in the room declined all dancing for the pleasure of attending her
Mr Dubster unacquainted with the natural high spirits of Camilla inferred nothing to his own disadvantage from her silence but talked incessantly himself with perfect complacency Do you know maam cried he just as that elderly lady that I suppose is your mamma took you all away in that hurry last night up comes the boy with my new pair of gloves but though I run down directly to tell you of it there was no making the old lady stop which I was fool to try at for as to women I know their obstinacy of old But what I grudged the most was as soon as I come up again as ill luck would have it Tom Hicks finds me my own tother glove So there I had two pair when I might as well have had never a one
Observing that Eugenia was dancing Lack aday he exclaimed Ill lay a wager that poor gentleman has been took in just as I was yesterday He thinks that young lady thats had the smallpox so bad is you maam Twould be a fine joke if such a mistake as that should get the little lame duck as I call her a husband Hed be in a fine hobble when he found hed got nothing but her ugly face for his bargain Though provided shed had the rhino it would not much have signified for as to being pretty or not its not great matter in a wife A man soon tires of seeing nothing but the same face if its one of the best
Camilla here in the midst of her chagrin could not forbear asking him if he was married Yes maam answered he calmly Ive had two wives to my share already so I know what Im speaking of though Ive buried them both Why it was all along of my wives what with the money I had with one and what with the money I had with the other that I got out of business so soon
You were very much obliged to them then
Why yes maam as to that I cant say to the contrary now that theyre gone but I cant say I had much comfort with em while they lived They was always a thinking they had a right to what they had a mind because of what they brought me so that I had enough to do to scrape a little matter together in case of outliving them One of em has not been dead above a twelvemonth or there about these are the first clothes Ive bought since I left off my blacks
When Indiana past them he expressed his admiration of her beauty That young lady maam he said cuts you all up sure enough Shes as fine a piece of red and white as ever I see I could think of such a young lady as that myself if I did not remember that I thought no more of my wife that was pretty than of my wife that was ugly after the first month or so Beauty goes for a mere nothing in matrimony when once ones used to it Besides Ive no great thoughts at present of entering into the state again of one while at any rate being but just got to be a little comfortable
The second dance was now called when Mrs Arlbery coming suddenly behind Camilla said in a low voice Do you know who you are talking with
No maam
A young tinker my dear thats all And with a provoking nod she retreated
Camilla half ready to laugh half to cry restrained herself with difficulty from running after her and Mr Dubster observing that she abruptly turned away and would listen no more again claimed her for his partner and upon her absolute refusal surprised and affronted walked off in silence She was then finally condemned to the morose society of Miss Margland and invectives against Sir Hugh for mismanagement and Lionel with whom now that lady was at open war for impertinence filled up the rest of her time till the company was informed that refreshments were served in the cardroom
Thither immediately every body flocked with as much speed and avidity as if they had learnt to appreciate the blessing of plenty by the experience of want Such is the vacancy of dissipated pleasure that never satisfied with what it possesses an opening always remains for something yet to be tried and on that something still to come all enjoyment seems to depend
The day beginning now to clear the sashes of a large bowwindow were thrown up Sir Sedley Clarendel sauntered thither and instantly everybody followed as if there were no breathing anywhere else declaring while they pressed upon one another almost to suffocation that nothing was so reviving as the fresh air and in a minute not a creature was to be seen in any other part of the room
Here in full view stood sundry hapless relations of the poorer part of the prisoners to be tried the next morning who with supplicating hands and eyes implored the compassion of the company whom their very calamities assembled for amusement
Nobody took any notice of them nobody appeared even to see them but one by one all glided gently away and the bowwindow was presently the only empty space in the apartment
Camilla contented with having already presented her mite and Eugenia with having given hers in commission retired unaffectedly with the rest while Miss Margland shrugging up her shoulders and declaring there was no end of beggars pompously added However we gave before we came in
Presently a paper was handed about to collect half guineas for a raffle A beautiful locket set round with pearls ornamented at the top with a little knot of small brilliants and very elegantly shaped with a space left for a braid of hair or a cypher was produced and as if by magnetic power attracted into almost every hand the capricious coin which distress but the moment before had repelled
Miss Margland lamented she had only guineas or silver but suffered Edgar to be her paymaster privately resolving that if she won the locket she would remember the debt Eugenia amused in seeing the humour of all that was going forward readily put in Indiana satisfied her uncle would repay the expences of the day with a heart panting from hope of the prize did the same but Camilla hung back totally unused to hazard upon what was unnecessary the little allowance she had been taught to spend sparingly upon herself that something might be always in her power to bestow upon others The character of this raffle was not of that interesting nature which calls forth from the affluent and easy respect as well as aid the prize belonged to no one whom adversity compelled to change what once was an innocent luxury into the means of subsistence it was the mere common mode of getting rid of a mere common bauble which no one had thought worth the full price affixed to it by its toyman She knew not however till now how hard to resist was the contagion of example and felt a struggle in her selfdenial that made her when she put the locket down withdraw from the crowd and resolve not to look at it again
Edgar who had observed her read her secret conflict with an emotion which impelled him to follow her that he might express his admiration but he was stopt by Mrs Arlbery who just then hastily attacked her with What have you done with your friend the tinker my dear
Camilla laughing though extremely ashamed said she knew nothing at all about him
You talked with him then by way of experiment to see how you might like him
No indeed I merely answered him when I could not help it but still I thought at a ball gentlemen only would present themselves
And how many couple said Mrs Arlbery smiling do you calculate would in that case stand up
She then ordered one of the beaux who attended her to bring her a chair and told another to fetch her the locket Edgar was again advancing to Camilla when Lionel whose desire to obtain the good graces of Mrs Arlbery had suggested to him an anticipation of her commands pushed forward with the locket
Well really it is not ugly cried she taking it in her hand Have you put in yet Miss Tyrold
No maam
O I am vastly glad of that for now we will try our fortune together
Camilla though secretly blushing at what she felt was an extravagance could not withstand this invitation she gave her half guinea
Edgar disappointed retreated in silence
The money being collected and the names of the rafflers taken down information was given that the prize was to be thrown for in three days time at one oclock at noon in the shop of a bookseller at Northwick
Some of the company now departed others prepared for a last dance Miss Margland desired Lionel to see for their carriage but Lionel had no greater joy than to disregard her Indiana asked earnestly to stay longer Miss Margland said she could only give way to her request upon condition her partner should be Mr Mandlebert It was in vain she urged that she was already engaged to Colonel Andover Miss Margland was inexorable and Edgar laughing said he should certainly have the whole corps upon his back but the honour was sufficient to counterbalance the risk and he would therefore beg the Colonels patience
Mr Mandlebert said Miss Margland I know enough of quarrels at balls about partners and ladies changing their minds to know how to act pretty well in those cases I shall desire therefore to speak to the Colonel myself and not trust two gentlemen together upon such a nice matter
She then beckoned to the Colonel who stood at a little distance and taking him apart told him she flattered herself he would not be offended if Miss Lynmere should dance again with Mr Mandlebert though rather out of rule as there were particular reasons for it
The Colonel with a smile said he perceived Mr Mandlebert was the happy man and acquiesced
A general murmur now ran buzzing round the room that Mr Mandlebert and Miss Lynmere were publicly contracted to each other and amongst many who heard with displeasure that the young beauty was betrothed before she was exhibited to view Mr Macdersey appeared to suffer the most serious mortification
As soon as this dance was over Edgar conducted his ladies to an apartment below stairs and went in search of the carriage
He did not return for some time Miss Margland as usual grumbled but Camilla perceiving Mrs Arlbery rejoiced in the delay and stationed herself by her side all alive in attending to the pleasantry with which she was amusing herself and those around her
When Edgar who seemed out of breath from running came back he made but short answers to the murmurs of Miss Margland and hastening to Camilla said I have been with your petitioner—she has all that can comfort her for the present and I have learnt the name of her husbands counsel You will be so good as to excuse me at dinner to Sir Hugh I shall remain here till I can judge what may be done
The attention of Camilla was now effectually withdrawn from Mrs Arlbery and the purest delight of which human feelings are susceptible took sudden and sole possession of her youthful mind in the idea of being instrumental to the preservation of a fellowcreature
Edgar saw in the change yet brightness of her countenance what passed within—and his disappointment concerning the raffle was immediately forgotten
A short consultation followed in which both spoke with so much energy as not only to overpower the remonstrances of Miss Margland for their departure but to catch the notice of Mrs Arlbery who coming forward and leaning her hand on the shoulder of Camilla said Tell me what it is that has thus animated you Have you heard any good tidings of your new friend
Camilla instantly and eagerly related the subject that occupied them without observing that the whole company around were smiling at her earnestness in a cause of such common distress
You are new my dear said Mrs Arlbery patting her cheek very new but I take the whim sometimes of being charitable myself for a little variety It always looks pretty and begging is no bad way of shewing off ones powers So give me your documents and Ill give you my eloquence
Camilla presented her the petition and she invited Mandlebert to dine with her Miss Margland then led the way and the female party returned to Cleves
CHAPTER V
A Raffle
It was late when Edgar returned to Cleves Camilla flew to meet him He told her everything relative to her petitioner was in the most prosperous train he had seen the prisoner heard the particulars of his story which all tended to his exculpation and Mrs Arlbery had contrived to make acquaintance with his counsel whom she found perfectly well disposed to exert himself in the cause and whom she had invited to a splendid supper The trial was to take place the next morning
Camilla already powerfully struck with Mrs Arlbery was enchanted to find her thus active in benevolence
Edgar was to dine with that lady the next day and to learn the event of their joint exertions
This proved all that could be wished The prosecution had been mild the judge and jury had been touched with compassion and the venial offender had been released with a gentle reprimand
Mandlebert returned to communicate these tidings to Camilla with a pleasure exactly in unison with her own Mrs Arlbery he avowed had been as zealous as himself and had manifested a charity of disposition which the flightiness of her manners had not let him to expect
The next object of attention was the raffle which was to take place the following morning
Sir Hugh was averse to letting his nieces go abroad again so soon but Miss Margland extremely anxious about her own chance for the prize solemnly asserted its necessity inveighed against the mismanagement of everything at Cleves stifled all her complaints of Lionel and pronounced a positive decision that to carry Indiana to public places was the sole method of promoting the match
Sir Hugh then willing to believe and yet more willing to get rid of disputing with her no longer withheld his consent
They were advanced within half a mile of Northwick when a sick man painfully supported by a woman with a child in her arms caught their eyes The ready hand of Eugenia was immediately in her pocket Camilla looking more intently upon the group perceived another child and presently recognised the wife of the prisoner She called to the coachman to stop and Edgar at the same moment rode up to the carriage
Miss Margland angrily ordered the man to drive on saying she was quite sick of being thus for ever infested with beggars who really came so often they were no better than pickpockets
O dont refuse to let me speak to them cried Camilla it will be such a pleasure to see their joy
O yes they look in much joy indeed they seem as if they had not eat a morsel these three weeks Drive on I say coachman I like no such melancholy sights for my part They always make me ill I wonder how any body can bear them
But we may help them we may assist them said Camilla with increasing earnestness
And pray when they have got all our money who is to help us
Eugenia delighted to give but unhabituated to any other exertion flung half a crown to them and Indiana begging to look out said Dear I never saw a prisoner before
Encouraged by an expressive look from Camilla Edgar dismounted to hand her from the carriage affecting not to hear the remonstrances of Miss Margland though she scrupled not to deliver them very audibly Eugenia languished to join them but could not venture to disobey a direct command and Indiana observing the road to be very dusty submitted to save a pair of beautiful new shoes
Camilla had all the gratification she promised herself in witnessing the happiness of the poor petitioner He was crawling to Cleves with his family to offer thanks They were penniless sick and wretched yet the preservation of the poor man seemed to make misery light to them all Edgar desired to know what were their designs for the future The man answered that he should not dare go back to his own country because there his disgrace was known and he should procure no work nor indeed was he now able to do any So we must make up our minds to beg from door to door and in the streets and on the high road he continued till I get back a little strength and can earn a living more creditably
But as long as we have kept you alive and saved you from being transported said his wife for which all thanks be due to this good gentleman we shall mind no hardships and never go astray again in wicked unthinkingness of this great mercy
Edgar inquired what had been their former occupations they answered they had both been dayworkers in the field till a fit of sickness had hindered the poor man from getting his livelihood penury and hunger then pressing hard upon them all he had been tempted to commit the offence for which he was taken and brought to deaths door But as now he added I have been saved I shall make it a warning for the time to come and never give myself up to so bad a course again
Edgar asked the woman what money she had left
Ah sir none for we had things to pay and people to satisfy and so everything you and the good ladies gave us is all gone for while anything was left us they would not be easy But this is no great mischief now as my husband is not taken away from us and is come to a right sense
I believe said Edgar you are very good sort of people however distress had misguided you
He then put something into the mans hand and Eugenia who from the carriage window heard what passed flung him another half crown Camilla added a shilling and turning suddenly away walked a few paces from them all
Edgar gently following inquired if anything was the matter her eyes were full of tears I was thinking she cried what my dear father would have said had he seen me giving half a guinea for a toy and a shilling to such poor starving people as these
Why what would he have said cried Edgar charmed with her penitence though joining in the apprehended censure
He would more than ever have pitied those who want money in seeing it so squandered by one who should better have remembered his lessons O if I could but recover that half guinea
Will you give me leave to get it back for you
Leave you would lay me under the greatest obligation How far half a guinea would go here in poverty such as this
He assured her he could regain it without difficulty and then telling the poor people to postpone their walk to Cleves till the evening when Camilla meant to prepare her uncle also to assist them he handed her to the coach with feelings yet more pleased than her own and galloped forward to execute his commission
He was ready at the door of the library to receive them As they alighted Camilla eagerly cried Well have you succeeded
Can you trust yourself to this spot and to a review of the allurement answered he smiling and holding half a guinea between his fingers yet be content to see your chance for the prize withdrawn
O give it me give it me cried she almost seizing it from him my dear father will be so glad to hear I have not spent it so foolishly
The rafflers were not yet assembled no one was in the shop but a well dressed elegant young man who was reading at a table and who neither raised his eyes at their entrance nor suffered their discourse to interrupt his attention yet though abstracted from outward objects his studiousness was not of a solemn cast he seemed wrapt in what he was reading with a pleasure amounting to ecstasy He started acted smiled and looked pensive in turn while his features were thrown into a thousand different expressions and his person was almost writhed with perpetually varying gestures From time to time his rapture broke forth into loud exclamations of Exquisite exquisite while he beat the leaves of the book violently with his hands in token of applause or lifting them up to his lips almost devoured with kisses the passages that charmed him Sometimes he read a few words aloud calling out Heavenly and vehemently stamping his approbation with his feet then suddenly shutting up the book folded his arms and casting his eyes towards the ceiling uttered O too much too much there is no standing it yet again the next minute opened it and resumed the lecture
The youthful group was much diverted with this unintended exhibition To Eugenia alone it did not appear ridiculous she simply envied his transports and only wished to discover by what book they were excited Edgar and Camilla amused themselves with conjecturing various authors Indiana and Miss Margland required no such aid to pass their time while with at least equal delight they contemplated the hopedfor prize
Lionel now bounced in Why what cried he are you all doing in this musty old shop when Mrs Arlbery and all the world are enjoying the air on the public walks
Camilla was instantly for joining that lady but Eugenia felt an unconquerable curiosity to learn the running title of the book She stole softly round to look over the shoulder of the reader and her respect for his raptures increased when she saw they were raised by Thomsons Seasons
Neither this approach nor the loud call of Lionel had interrupted the attention of the young student who perceived and regarded nothing but what he was about and though occasionally he ceased reading to indulge in passionate ejaculations he seemed to hold everything else beneath his consideration
Lionel drawn to observe him from the circuit made by Eugenia exclaimed What Melmond why how long have you been in Hampshire
The youth surprised from his absence of mind by the sound of his own name looked up and said Whos that
Why when the deuce did you come into this part of the world cried Lionel approaching him to shake hands
O for pitys sake answered he with energy dont interrupt me
Why not have not you enough of that dry work at Oxford Come come have done with this boyish stuff and behave like a man
You distract me answered Melmond motioning him away I am in a scene that entrances me to Elysium I have never read it since I could appreciate it
What old Thomson said Lionel peeping over him why I never read him at all Come man giving him a slap on the shoulder come along with me and Ill shew you something more worth looking at
You will drive me mad if you break in upon this episode tis a picture of all that is divine upon earth hear it only hear it
He then began the truly elegant and feeling description that concludes Thomsons Spring and though Lionel with a loud shout cried Do you think I come hither for such fogrum stuff as that and ran out of the shop the wrapt enthusiast continued reading aloud too much delighted with the pathos of his own voice in expressing the sentiments of the poet to deny himself a regale so soothing to his ears
Eugenia enchanted stood on tiptoe to hear him her uplifted finger petitioning silence all around and her heart fondly repeating O just such a youth be Clermont just such his passion for reading just such his fervour for poetry just such his exaltation of delight in literary yet domestic felicity
Mandlebert also caught by the rehearsal of his favourite picture of a scheme of human happiness which no time no repetition can make vapid to a feeling heart stood pleased and attentive to hear him even Indiana though she listened not to the matter was struck by the manner in which it was delivered which so resembled dramatic recitation that she thought herself at a play and full of wonder advanced straight before him to look full in his face and watch the motions of his right arm with which he acted incessantly while the left held his book Miss Margland concluded he was a strolling player and did not suffer him to draw her eyes from the locket But when at the words
——content
Retirement rural quiet friendship books
Ease and alternate labour useful life
Progressive virtue and approving Heaven
Mandlebert turned softly round to read their impression on the countenance of Camilla—she was gone
Attracted by her wish to see more of Mrs Arlbery she had run out of the shop after Lionel before she either knew what was reading or was missed by those the reader had engaged Edgar though disappointed wondered he should have stayed himself to listen to what had long been familiar to him and was quietly gliding away when he saw her returning He then went back to his post wondering with still less satisfaction how she could absent herself from hearing what so well was worth her studying
The young man when he came to the concluding line
To scenes where love and bliss immortal reign
rose let fall the book clasped his hands with a theatrical air and was casting his eyes upwards in a fervent and willing trance when he perceived Indiana standing immediately before him
Surprised and ashamed his sublimity suddenly forsook him his arms dropt and his hands were slipt into his waistcoat pockets
But the very next moment the sensation of shame and of self was superseded by the fair object that had thus aroused him Her beauty her youth her attitude of examination struck him at first with an amazement that presently gave place to an admiration as violent as it was sudden He started back bowed profoundly without any pretence for bowing at all and then rivetting his eyes in which his whole soul seemed centred on her lovely face stood viewing her with a look of homage motionless yet enraptured
Indiana still conceiving this to be some sort of acting unabashed kept her post expecting every moment he would begin spouting something more But the enthusiasm of the young Oxonian had changed its object; the charms of poetry yielded to the superior charms of beauty and while he gazed on the fair Indiana his fervent mind fancied her some being of celestial order wonderfully accorded to his view How or for what purpose he as little knew as cared The play of imagination in the romance of early youth is rarely interrupted with scruples of probability
This scene of dumb transport and unfixed expectation was broken up neither by the admirer nor the admired but by the entrance of Mrs Arlbery Sir Sedley Clarendel Lionel the officers and many of the rest of the company that had been present at the public breakfast Nor would even this intrusion have disengaged the young Oxonian from his devout and ecstatic adoration had it been equally indifferent to Indiana but the appearance of a party of gay officers was not to her a matter of little moment Eager for the notice in which she delighted she looked round in full confidence of receiving it The rapture of the Oxonian as she had seen it kindled while he was reading she attributed to something she did not understand and took in it therefore no part but the adulation of the officers was by no means ambiguous and its acceptance was as obvious as its presentation
Willingly therefore as well as immediately encompassed she received a thousand compliments and in the gratification of hearing them completely forgot her late short surprise but the Oxonian more forcibly struck ardently followed her with his eyes started back theatrically at every change of attitude which displayed her fine figure and at her smiles smiled again from the uncontrollable sympathy of a fascinated imagination
Miss Margland felt not small pride in seeing her pupil thus distinguished since it marked the shrewdness of her capacity in foretelling the effect of bringing her forth Anxious to share in a consequence to which she had industriously contributed she paradingly forced her way through the group and calling the attention of Indiana to herself said I am glad you came away my dear for I am sure that man is only a poor strolling player
Dear let me look at him again cried Indiana for I never saw a player before only at a play
She then turned back to examine him
Enchanted to again meet her eyes the youth bowed with intense respect and advanced a few paces as if with intention to speak to her though immediately and with still more precipitance he retreated from being ready with nothing to say
Lionel going up to him and pulling him by the arm cried Why man whats come to you These are worse heroics than I have seen you in yet
The bright eyes of Indiana being still fixed upon him he disdained all notice of Lionel beyond a silent repulse
Indiana having now satisfied her curiosity restored her attention to the beaux that surrounded her The Oxonian half sighing unfolded his clasped hands one of which he reposed upon the shoulder of Lionel
Come prithee be a little less in alt cried Lionel and answer a man when he speaks to you Where did you leave Smythson
Who is that divinity can you tell me said the Oxonian in a low and respectful tone of inquiry
What divinity
What divinity insensible Tyrold tasteless adamantine Look look yonder and ask me again if you can
O what my cousin Indiana
Your cousin have you any affinity with such a creature as that O Tyrold I glory in your acquaintance she is all I ever read of all I ever conceived she is beauty in its very essence she is elegance delicacy and sensibility personified
All very true said Lionel but how should you know anything of her besides her beauty
How by looking at her Can you view that countenance and ask me how Are not those eyes all soul Does not that mouth promise every thing that is intelligent Can those lips ever move but to diffuse sweetness and smiles I must not look at her again another glance may set me raving
May cried Lionel laughing why what have you been doing all this time However be a little less in the sublime and Ill introduce you to her
Is it possible shall I owe to you so celestial a happiness O Tyrold you bind me to you for life
Lionel heartily hallowing then brought him forward to Indiana Miss Lynmere he cried a fellow student of mine though somewhat more given to study than your poor cousin most humbly begs the honour of kissing your toe
The uncommon lowness of the bow which the Oxonian ignorant of what Lionel would say was making led Miss Margland to imagine he was really going to perform that popish ceremony and hastily pulling Lionel by the sleeve she angrily said Mr Lionel I desire to know by whose authority you present such actormen to a young lady under my care
Lionel almost in convulsions repeated this aloud and the young student who had just in a voice of the deepest interest and respect begun The high honour madam hearing an universal laugh from the company stopt short utterly disconcerted and after a few vainly stammering attempts bowed again and was silent
Edgar who in this distress read an ingenuousness of nature that counterpoised its romantic enthusiasm felt for the young man and taking Lionel by the arm said Will you not introduce me also to your friend
Mr Melmond of Brazen Nose Mr Mandlebert of Beech Park cried Lionel flourishing and bowing from one to the other
Edgar shook hands with the youth and hoped they should be better acquainted
Camilla gliding round whispered him How like my dear father was that to give relief to embarrassment instead of joining in the laugh which excites it
Edgar touched by a comparison to the person he most honoured gratefully looked his acknowledgment and all displeasure at her flight even from Thomsons scene of conjugal felicity was erased from his mind
The company grew impatient for the raffle though some of the subscribers were not arrived It was voted at the proposition of Mrs Arlbery that the master of the shop should represent as their turns came round those who were absent
While this was settling Edgar in some confusion drew Camilla to the door saying To avoid any perplexity about your throwing suppose you step into the haberdashers shop that is over the way
Camilla who already had felt very awkward with respect to her withdrawn subscription gladly agreed to the proposal and begging him to explain the matter to Miss Margland tript across the street while the rafflers were crowding to the point of action
Here she sat making some small purchases till the business was over The whole party then came forth into the street and all in a body poured into the haberdashers shop smiling bowing and of one accord wishing her joy
Concluding this to be in derision of her desertion she rallied as well as she was able but Mrs Arlbery who entered the last and held the locket in her hand said Miss Tyrold I heartily wish you equally brilliant success in the next and far more dangerous lottery in which I presume you will try your fate And presented her the prize
Camilla colouring laughing and unwillingly taking it said I suppose maam—I hope—it is yours And she looked about for Edgar to assist her but he was gone to hasten the carriage
Every body crowded round her to take a last sight of the beautiful locket Eager to get rid of it she put it into the hands of Indiana who regarded it with a partiality which her numerous admirers had courted individually in vain though the young Oxonian by his dramatic emotions had engaged more of her attention than she had yet bestowed elsewhere Eugenia too caught by his eccentricity was powerfully impelled to watch and admire him and not the less in the unenvying innocency of her heart for his evident predilection in favour of her cousin This youth was not however suffered to engross her the stranger by whom she had already been distinguished at the ball and public breakfast was one in the group and resumed a claim upon her notice too flattering in its manner to be repulsed and too new to her extreme inexperience to be obtrusive
Meanwhile Camilla gathered from Major Cerwood that the prize had really fallen to her lot Edgar had excused her not staying to throw for herself but the general proxy the bookseller had been successful in her name
In great perplexity how to account for this incident she apprehended Edgar had made some mistake and determined through his means to restore the locket to the subscription
The carriage of Mrs Arlbery was first ready but pushing away the throng of beaux offering assistance she went up to Camilla and said Fair object of the spleen of all around will you bring a little of your influence with good fortune to my domain and come and dine with me
Delighted at the proposal Camilla looked at Miss Margland but Miss Margland not being included in the invitation frowned a refusal
Edgar now entered and announced the coach of Sir Hugh
Make use of it as you can said Mrs Arlbery there is room for one more to go back than it brought so pray do the honours prettily Clarendel take care of Miss Tyrold to my coach
Sir Sedley smiled and played with his watch chain but did not move
O you laziest of all lazy wretches cried Mrs Arlbery
I shall reverse the epithet and be the alertest of the alert said Major Cerwood if the commission may be devolved to myself
Positively not for the world there is nothing so pleasant as working the indolent except indeed making the restless keep quiet so come forth Clarendel be civil and strike us all with astonishment
My adored Mrs Arlbery cried he hoisting himself upon the shop counter and swinging a switch to and fro with a languid motion your maxims are all of the first superlative except this but nobodys civil now you know tis a fogramity quite out
So you absolutely wont stir then
O pray pray answered he putting on his hat and folding his arms a little mercy tis so vastly insufferably hot Calcutta must be in the frigid zone to this shop a very icehouse
Camilla who never imagined rudeness could make a feature of affectation internally attributed this refusal to his pique that she had disregarded him at the public breakfast and would have made him some apology but knew not in what manner to word it
The Major again came forward but Miss Margland advancing also said Miss Camilla you wont think of dining out unknown to Sir Hugh
I am sure cried Mrs Arlbery you will have the goodness to speak for me to Sir Hugh Then turning to Lionel Mr Tyrold she added you must go with us that you may conduct your sister safe home Dont be affronted I shall invite you for your own sake another time Come you abominable Clarendel awake and give a little spring to our motions
You are most incommodiously cruel answered he but I am bound to be your slave Then calling to one of the apprentices in the shop My vastly good boy he cried do you want to see me irrecoverably subdued by this immensely inhuman heat
The boy stared and said Sir
If not do get me a glass of water
O worse and worse said Mrs Arlbery your whims are insupportable I give you up Major advance
The Major with alacrity offered his hand Camilla hesitated she wished passionately to go yet felt she had no authority for such a measure The name though not the person of Mrs Arlbery was known both at Cleves and at Etherington as belonging to the owner of a capital house in the neighbourhood and though the invitation was without form Camilla was too young to be withheld by ceremony Her uncle she was sure could refuse her nothing and she thought as she was only a visitor at Cleves Miss Margland had no right to control her the pleasure therefore of the scheme soon conquered every smaller difficulty and looking away from her party she suffered herself to be led to the coach
Miss Margland as she passed said aloud Remember I give no consent to this
But Eugenia on the other side whispered Dont be uneasy I will explain to my uncle how it all happened
Mrs Arlbery was following when Indiana exclaimed Cousin Camilla what am I to do with your locket
Camilla had wholly forgotten it she called to Edgar who slowly and with a seriousness very unusual obeyed her summons
There has been some great mistake said she about the locket I suppose they neglected to scratch out my name from the subscription for Major Cerwood says it really came to me Will you be so good as to return it to the bookseller
The gravity of Edgar immediately vanished Are you so ready he said even when it is in your possession to part with so pretty a trinket
You know it cannot be mine for here is my half guinea
Mrs Arlbery then got into the coach but Camilla still farther recollecting herself again called to Edgar and holding out the half guinea said How shall I get this to the poor people
They were to come he answered to Cleves this afternoon
Will you then give it them for me
No commission to Mr Mandlebert interrupted Mrs Arlbery for he must positively dine with us
Mandlebert bowed a pleased assent and Camilla applied to Eugenia but Miss Margland in deep wrath refused to let her move a step
Mrs Arlbery then ordered the coach to drive home Camilla begging a moments delay desired Edgar to approach nearer and said in a low voice I cannot bear to let those poor expectants toil so far for nothing I will sooner go back to Cleves myself I shall not sleep all night if I disappoint them Pray invent some excuse for me
If you have set your heart upon this visit answered Mandlebert with vivacity though in a whisper I will ride over myself to Cleves and arrange all to your wishes but if not certainly there can need no invention to decline an invitation of which Sir Hugh has no knowledge
Camilla who at the beginning of this speech felt the highest glee sunk involuntarily at its conclusion and turning with a blank countenance to Mrs Arlbery stammeringly said Can you will you—be so very good as not to take it ill if I dont go with you
Mrs Arlbery surprised very coldly answered Certainly not I would be no restraint upon you I hate restraint myself She then ordered the footman to open the door and Camilla too much abashed to offer any apology was handed out by Edgar
Amiable Camilla said he in conducting her back to Miss Margland this is a self-conquest that I alone perhaps expected from you
Cheared by such approbation she forgot her disappointment and regardless of Miss Margland and her ill humour jumped into her uncles coach and was the gayest of the party that returned to Cleves
Edgar took the locket from Indiana and promised to rectify the mistake and then lest Mrs Arlbery should be offended with them all rode to her house without any fresh invitation accompanied by Lionel whose anger against Camilla for suffering Miss Margland to gain a victory was his theme the whole ride
CHAPTER VI
A Barn
The first care of Camilla was to interest Sir Hugh in the misfortunes of the prisoner and his family her next to relate the invitation of Mrs Arlbery and to beg permission that she might wait upon the lady the next morning with apologies for her abrupt retreat and with acknowledgments for the services done to the poor woman which first the Oxonian and then the raffle had driven from her mind Sir Hugh readily consented blaming her for supposing it possible he could ever hesitate in what could give her any pleasure
Before the teaparty broke up Edgar returned He told Camilla he had stolen away the instant the dinner was over to avoid any mistake about the poor people whom he had just overtaken by the parkgate and conducted to the great barn where he had directed them to wait for orders
Ill run to them immediately cried she for my half guinea is in an agony to be gone
The barn my dear young Mr Mandlebert exclaimed Sir Hugh and why did you not bring them to the servants hall My little girl has been telling me all their history and God forbid I should turn hardhearted because of their wanting a leg of mutton in preference to being starved though they might have no great right to it according to the forms of law which however, is not much impediment to the calls of nature, when a man sees a butchers stall well covered and has got nothing within him except his own poor craving appetite which is a thing I always take into consideration though God forbid I should protect a thief no mans property being anothers whether hes poor or rich
He then gave Camilla three guineas to deliver to them from himself to set them a little agoing in an honest way that they might not he said repent leaving off bad actions Her joy was so excessive that she passionately embraced his knees and Edgar while he looked on could nearly have bent to her his own with admiration of her generous nature Eugenia desired to accompany her and Indiana rising also said Dear I wonder how they will look in the barn I should like to see them too
Miss Margland made no opposition and they set out
Camilla leading the way with a fleetness that mocked all equality ran into the barn and saw the whole party according to their several powers enjoying themselves The poor man stretched upon straw was resting his aching limbs his wife by his side was giving nourishment to her baby and the other child a little boy of three years old was jumping and turning head over heels with the true glee of unspoilt nature superior to poverty and distress
To the gay heart of Camilla whatever was sportive was attractive she flew to the little fellow whose skin was clean and bright in the midst of his rags and wretchedness and making herself his playmate bid the woman finish feeding her child told the man to repose himself undisturbed and began dancing with the little boy not less delighted than himself at the festive exercise
Miss Margland cast up her hands and eyes as she entered and poured forth a warm remonstrance against so demeaning a condescension but Camilla in whose composition pride had no share though spirit was a principal ingredient danced on unheeding to the equal amaze and enchantment of the poor man and woman at the honour done to their little son
Edgar came in last he had given his arm to Eugenia who was always in the rear if unassisted Miss Margland appealed to him upon the impropriety of the behaviour of Camilla adding If I had had the bringing up a young lady who could so degrade herself I protest I should blush to shew my face but you cannot I am sure fail remarking the difference of Miss Lynmeres conduct
Edgar attended with an air of complacency which he thought due to the situation of Miss Margland in the family yet kept his eyes fixt upon Camilla with an expression that to the least discernment would have evinced his utmost approbation of her innocent gaiety but Miss Margland was amongst that numerous tribe who content as well as occupied with making observations upon others have neither the power nor thought of developing those that are returned upon themselves
Camilla at length wholly out of breath gave over but perceiving that the baby was no longer at its mothers breast flew to the poor woman and taking the child in her arms said Come I can nurse and rest at the same time I assure you the baby will be safe with me for I nurse all the children in our neighbourhood She then fondled the poor little halfstarved child to her bosom quieting and kissing and cooing over it
Miss Margland was still more incensed but Edgar could attend to her no longer Charmed with the youthful nurse and seeing in her unaffected attitudes a thousand graces he had never before remarked and reading in her fondness for children the genuine sweetness of her character he could not bear to have the pleasing reflections revolving in his mind interrupted by the spleen of Miss Margland and slipping away posted himself behind the babys father where he could look on undisturbed certain it was a vicinity to which Miss Margland would not follow him
Had this scene lasted till Camilla was tired its period would not have been very short but Miss Margland finding her exhortations vain suddenly called out Miss Lynmere Miss Eugenia come away directly Its ten to one but these people have all got the gaol distemper
Edgar quick as lightning at this sound flew to Camilla and snatched the child from her arms Indiana with a scream ran out of the barn Miss Margland hurried after and Eugenia following earnestly entreated Camilla not to stay another moment
And what is there to be alarmed at cried she I always nurse poor children when I see them at home and my father never prohibits me
There may be some reason however said Edgar while still he tenderly held the baby himself for the present apprehension I beg you therefore to hasten away
At least said she before I depart let me execute my commission And then with the kindest good wishes for their better fortune she put her uncles three guineas into the hands of the poor man and her own rescued half guinea into those of his wife and desiring Edgar not to remain himself where he would not suffer her to stay ran to give her arm to Eugenia leaving it a doubtful point whether the good humour accompanying her alms made the most pleased impression upon their receivers or upon their observer
CHAPTER VII
A Declaration
At night while they were enjoying the bright beams of the moon from an apartment in the front of the house they observed a strange footman in a superb livery ride towards the servants hall and presently a letter was delivered to Miss Margland
She opened it with an air of exulting consequence one which was inclosed she put into her pocket and read the other three or four times over with looks of importance and complacency She then pompously demanded a private audience with Sir Hugh and the young party left the room
Well sir she cried proudly you may now see if I judged right as to taking the young ladies a little into the world Please to look at this letter sir
To Miss Margland at Sir Hugh Tyrolds Bart Cleves Hampshire
Madam
With the most profound respect I presume to address you though only upon the strength of that marked politeness which shines forth in your deportment I have the highest ambition to offer a few lines to the perusal of Miss Eugenia Tyrold previous to presenting myself to Sir Hugh My reasons will be contained in the letter which I take the liberty to put into your hands It is only under your protection madam I can aim at approaching that young lady as all that I have either seen or heard convinces me of her extraordinary happiness in being under your direction Your influence madam I should therefore esteem as an honour and I leave it wholly to your own choice whether to read what I have addressed to that young lady before or after she has deigned to cast an eye upon it herself I remain with the most profound respect
Madam
your most obedient
and obliged servant
Alphonso Bellamy
I shall take the liberty to send my servant for an answer tomorrow evening
This sir continued Miss Margland when Sir Hugh had read the letter this is the exact conduct of a gentleman all open all respectful No attempt at any clandestine intercourse All is addressed where it ought to be to the person most proper to superintend such an affair This is that very same gentleman whose politeness I mentioned to you and who danced with Miss Eugenia at Northwick when nobody else took any notice of her This is—
Why then this is one of the most untoward things cried Sir Hugh who vainly waiting for a pause began to speak without one that has ever come to bear for wheres the use of Eugenias making poor young fellows fall in love with her for nothing which I hold to be a pity provided its sincere which I take for granted
As to that sir I cant say I see the reason why Miss Eugenia should not be allowed to look about her and have some choice especially as the young gentleman abroad has no fortune at least none answerable to her expectations
But thats the very reason for my marrying them together For as he has not had the smallpox himself that is not in the natural way which Lord help me I thought the best owing to my want of knowledge; why hell the more readily excuse her face not being one of the prettiest for her kindness in putting up with his having so little money being a thing some people think a good deal of
But sir wont it be very hard upon poor Miss Eugenia if a better offer should come that she must not listen to it only because of a person she has never seen though he has no estate
Mrs Margland said Sir Hugh with some heat this is the very thing that I would sooner have given a crown than have had happen Who knows but Eugenia may take a fancy to this young jackanapes who for aught I know may be as good a man as another for which I beg his pardon but as he is nothing to me and my nephews my nephew why am I to have the best scheme I ever made knocked on the head for a person I had as lieve were twitched into the Red Sea which however, is a thing I should not say being what I would not do
Miss Margland took from her pocket the letter designed for Eugenia and was going to break the seal but Sir Hugh preventing her said No Miss Margland Eugenia shall read her own letters I have not had her taught all this time by one of the first scholars of the age as far as I can tell to put that affront upon her
He then rang the bell and sent for Eugenia
Miss Margland stated the utter impropriety of suffering any young lady to read a letter of that sort till proposals had been laid before her parents and guardians But Sir Hugh spoke no more till Eugenia appeared
My dear he then said here is a letter just come to put your education to the trial which I make no doubt will stand the test properly therefore in regard to the answer you shall write it all yourself being qualified in a manner to which I have no right to pretend though I shall go tomorrow to my brother which will give me a better insight his head being one of the best
Eugenia greatly surprised opened the letter and read it with visible emotion
Well my dear and what do you say to it
Without answering she read it again
Sir Hugh repeated the question
Indeed sir said she in a tone of sadness it is something that afflicts me very much
Lord help us cried Sir Hugh this comes of going to a ball which begging Miss Marglands pardon is the last time it shall be done
Miss Margland was beginning a vehement defence of herself but Sir Hugh interrupted it by desiring to see the letter
Eugenia with increased confusion folded it up and said Indeed sir—Indeed uncle—it is a very improper letter for me to shew
Well that cried Miss Margland is a thing I could never have imagined that a gentleman who is so much the gentleman should write an improper letter
No no interrupted she not improper—perhaps—for him to write—but for me to exhibit
O if thats all my dear said Sir Hugh if its only because of a few compliments I beg you not to mind them because of their having no meaning which is a thing common enough in the way of making love by what I hear though such a young thing as you can know nothing of the matter your learning not going in that line nor Dr Orkbornes neither if one may judge which God forbid I should find fault with being no business of mine
He then again asked to see the letter and Eugenia ashamed to refuse gave it and went out of the room
To Miss Eugenia Tyrold Cleves
Madam
The delicacy of your highly cultivated mind awes even the violent passion which you inspire And to this I entreat you to attribute the trembling fear which deters me from the honour of waiting upon Sir Hugh while uncertain if my addressing him might not raise your displeasure I forbear therefore to lay before him my pretensions for soliciting your favour from the deepest apprehension you might think I presumed too far upon an acquaintance to my unhappiness so short yet as I feel it to have excited in me the most lasting attachment from my fixed admiration of your virtues and talents I cannot endure to run the risk of incurring your aversion Allow me then once more under the sanction of that excellent lady in whose care I have had the honour of seeing you to entreat one moments audience that I may be graced with your own commands about waiting upon Sir Hugh without which I should hold myself ungenerous and unworthy to approach him since I should blush to throw myself at your feet from an authority which you do not permit I beseech you madam to remember that I shall be miserable till I know my doom but still that the heart not the hand can alone bestow happiness on a disinterested mind
I have the honour to be
Madam
your most devoted and obedient humble servant
Alphonso Bellamy
Sir Hugh when he had finished the letter heaved a sigh and leant his head upon his hand considering whether or not to let it be seen by Miss Margland who however not feeling secure what his determination might be had so contrived to sit at the table as to read it at the same time with himself Nor had she weighed the interest of her curiosity amiss Sir Hugh dreading a debate with her soon put the letter into his pocketbook and again sent for Eugenia
Eugenia excused herself from returning pleaded a headache and went to bed
Sir Hugh was in the deepest alarm though the evening was far advanced he could scarce refrain from going to Etherington directly he ordered his carriage to be at the door at eight oclock the next morning and sent a second order a moment after that it should not be later than half past seven
He then summoned Camilla and giving her the letter bid her run with it to her sister for fear it was that she was fretting for And soon after he went to bed that he might be ready in the morning
Eugenia meanwhile felt the placid composure of her mind now for the first time shaken The assiduities of this young man had already pleased and interested her but though gratified by them in his presence they occurred to her no more in his absence With the Oxonian she had been far more struck his energy his sentiments his passion for literature would instantly have riveted him in her fairest favour had she not so completely regarded herself as the wife of Clermont Lynmere that she denied her imagination any power over her reason
This letter however filled her with sensations wholly new She now first reflected seriously upon the nature of her situation with regard to Clermont for whom she seemed bespoken by her uncle without the smallest knowledge how they might approve or suit each other Perhaps he might dislike her she must then have the mortification of being refused perhaps he might excite her own antipathy she must then either disappoint her uncle or become a miserable sacrifice
Here on the contrary she conceived herself an elected object The difference of being accepted or being chosen worked forcibly upon her mind and all that was delicate feminine or dignified in her notions rose in favour of him who sought when opposed to him who could only consent to receive her Generous too he appeared to her in forbearing to apply to Sir Hugh without her permission disinterested in declaring he did not wish for her hand without her heart and noble in not seeking her in a clandestine manner but referring every thing to Miss Margland
The idea also of exciting an ardent passion lost none of its force from its novelty to her expectations It was not that she had hitherto supposed it impossible she had done less she had not thought of it all Nor came it now with any triumph to her modest and unassuming mind all it brought with it was gratitude towards Bellamy and a something soothing towards herself which though inexplicable to her reason was irresistible to her feelings
When Camilla entered with the letter she bashfully asked her if she wished to read it Camilla eagerly cried O yes But having finished it said It is not such a letter as Edgar Mandlebert would have written
I am sure then said Eugenia colouring I am sorry to have received it
Do you not observe every day said Camilla the distance the delicacy of his behaviour to Indiana though Miss Margland says their marriage is fixed how free from all distinction that might confuse her This declaration on the contrary is so abrupt—and from so new an acquaintance—
Certainly then I wont answer it said Eugenia much discomposed it had not struck me thus at first reading but I see now all its impropriety
She then bid good night to Camilla who concluding her the appropriated wife of Clermont had uttered her opinion without scruple
Eugenia now again read the letter but not again with pleasure She thought it forward and presumptuous and the only gratification that remained upon her mind was an half conscious scarce admitted and even to herself unacknowledged charm in a belief that she possessed the power to inspire an animated regard
CHAPTER VIII
An Answer
Mr and Mrs Tyrold and Lavinia were at breakfast when Sir Hugh entered their parlour the next morning Brother he cried I have something of great importance to tell you which it is very fit my sister should hear too for which reason I make no doubt but my dear Lavinias good sense will leave the room without waiting for a hint
Lavinia instantly retired
O my dear brother continued the baronet do you know heres a young chap who appears to be a rather good sort of man which is so much the worse who has been falling in love with Eugenia
He then delivered the two letters to Mr Tyrold
Now the only thing that hurts me in this business is that this young man who Miss Margland calls a person of fashion writes as well as Clermont would do himself though that is what I shall never own to Eugenia which I hope is no sin being all for her own sake that is to say for Clermonts
Mr Tyrold after attentively reading the letters gave them to his wife and made many inquiries concerning their writer and his acquaintance with Eugenia and Miss Margland
Why it was all brought about said Sir Hugh by their going to a ball and a public breakfast which is a thing my little Camilla is not at all to blame for because if nobody had put it in her head she would not have known there was a thing of the kind And indeed it was but natural in poor Lionel neither to set her agog the chief fault lying in the assizes to which my particular objection is against the lawyers who come into a town to hang and transport the poor by way of keeping the peace and then encourage the rich to make all the noise and riot they can by their own junkettings for which however being generally I believe pretty good scholars I make no doubt but they have their own reasons
I flatter myself said Mrs Tyrold scarce deigning to finish the letters Eugenia young as she is will need no counsel how to estimate a writer such as this What must the man be who presuming upon his personal influence ventures to claim her concurrence in an application to her friends though he has seen her but twice and knows her to be destitute of the smallest knowledge of his principles his character or his situation in life
Good lack cried the baronet what a prodigious poor head I must have here I could hardly sleep all night for thinking what a fine letter this jackanapes which I shall make no more apology for calling him had been writing fearing it would cut up poor Clermont in her opinion for all his grand tour
Perfectly restored to ease he now bad them good morning but Mr Tyrold entreated him to stay till they had settled how to get rid of the business
My dear brother he answered I want no more help now since I have got your opinion that is my sisters which I take it for granted is the same I make no doubt but Eugenia will pretty near have writ her foul copy by the time I get home which Dr Orkborne may overlook for her to the end that this Mr Upstart may have no more fault to find against it
They both desired to dine at Cleves that they might speak themselves with Eugenia
And how said Mr Tyrold with a strong secret emotion how goes on Edgar with Indiana
Vastly well vastly well indeed not that I pretend to speak for myself being rather too dull in these matters owing to never entering upon them in the right season as I intend to tell other young men doing the same
He then in warm terms narrated the accounts given him by Miss Margland of the security of the conquest of Indiana
Mr Tyrold fixed his hour for expecting the carriage and the baronet desired that Lavinia should be of the party because he said I see she has the proper discretion when she is wanted to go out of the way which must be the same with Camilla and Indiana too today as well as with young Mr Edgar for I dont think it prudent to trust such new beginners with every thing that goes on till they get a little older
The anxiety of Mr Tyrold concerning Bellamy was now mingled with a cruel regret in relation to Mandlebert Even his own upright conduct could scarce console him for the loss of his favourite hope and he almost repented that he had not been more active in endeavouring to preserve it
All that passed in his mind was read and participated in by his partner whose displeasure was greater though her mortification could but be equal That Edgar said she should have kept his heart wholly untouched would less have moved my wonder he has a peculiar though unconscious delicacy in his nature which results not from insolence nor presumption but from his own invariable and familiar exercise of every virtue and of every duty the smallest deviation is offensive and even the least inaccuracy is painful to him Was it possible then to be prepared for such an election as this He has disgraced my expectations he has played the common part of a mere common young man whose eye is his sole governor
My Georgiana said Mr Tyrold I am deeply disappointed Our two eldest girls are but slightly provided for and Eugenia is far more dangerously circumstanced in standing so conspicuously apart as a prize to some adventurer One of these three precious cares I had fondly concluded certain of protection and happiness for which ever I might have bestowed upon Edgar Mandlebert I should have considered as the most fortunate of her sex Let us however rejoice for Indiana no one can more need a protector and next to my own three girls there is no one for whom I am so much interested I grieve however for Edgar himself whose excellent judgment will in time assert its rights though passion at this period has set it aside
I am too angry with him for pity said Mrs Tyrold nor is his understanding of a class that has any claim to such lenity I had often thought our gentle Lavinia almost born to be his wife and no one could more truly have deserved him But the soft perfection of her character relieves me from any apprehension for her conduct and almost all my solicitude devolves upon Camilla For our poor Eugenia I had never indulged a hope of his choice though that valuable unfortunate girl with every unearned defect about her intrinsically merits him with all his advantages his accomplishments and his virtues but to appreciate her uninfluenced by pecuniary views to which he is every way superior was too much to expect from so young a man My wishes therefore had guided him to our Camilla that sweet open generous inconsiderate girl whose feelings are all virtues but whose impulses have no restraints I have not a fear for her when she can act with deliberation but fear is almost all I have left when I consider her as led by the start of the moment With him however she would have been the safest and with him—next alone to her mother the happiest of her sex
The kindest acknowledgments repaid this sympathy of sentiment and they agreed that their felicity would have been almost too complete for this lower world if such an event had come to pass Nevertheless its failure added Mrs Tyrold is almost incredible and wholly unpardonable That Indiana should vanquish where Lavinia and Camilla have failed I feel indignant at such a triumph of mere external unintelligent beauty
Eugenia received her parents with the most bashful confusion yet they found upon conversing with her it was merely from youthful shame and not from any dangerous prepossession The observations of Camilla had broken that spell with which a first declaration of regard is apt to entangle unreflecting inexperience and by teaching her to less value the votary had made the conquest less an object of satisfaction She was gratified by the permission of her uncle to write her own answer which was now produced
To Alphonso Bellamy Esq
Sir
I am highly sensible to the honour of your partiality which I regret it is not possible for me to deserve Be not therefore offended and still less suffer yourself to be afflicted when I confess I have only my poor thanks to offer and poor esteem to return for your unmerited goodness Dwell not sir upon this disappointment but receive my best wishes for your restored happiness for never can I forget a distinction to which I have so little claim Believe me
Sir
Your very much obliged
and most grateful humble servant
Eugenia Tyrold
Mr Tyrold who delighted to see how completely in her studies with Dr Orkborne she had escaped any pedantry or affectation and even preserved all the native humility of her artless character returned her the letter with an affectionate embrace and told her he could desire no alteration but that of omitting the word grateful at the conclusion
Mrs Tyrold was far less satisfied She wished it to be completely rewritten protesting that a man who in all probability was a mere fortunehunter would infer from so gentle a dismission encouragement rather than repulse
Sir Hugh said there was one thing only he desired to have added which was a hint of a preengagement with a relation of her own
Eugenia at this coloured and retreated and Mrs Tyrold reminded the baronet with some displeasure of his promise to guard the secret of his project Sir Hugh a little disturbed said it never broke out from him but by accident which he would take care should never get the upper hand again He would not however consent to have the letter altered which he said would be an affront to the learning of Eugenia unless it were done by Dr Orkborne himself who being her master had a right to correct her first penmanship
Dr Orkborne being called upon slightly glanced his eye over the letter but made no emendation saying I believe it will do very sufficiently but I have only concerned myself with the progress of Miss Eugenia in the Greek and Latin languages any body can teach her English
The fond parents finished their visit in full satisfaction with their irreproachable Eugenia and with the joy of seeing their darling Camilla as happy and as disengaged as when she had left them but Mandlebert had spent the day abroad and escaped therefore the observations with which they had meant to have investigated his sentiments Indiana with whom they conversed more than usual and with the most scrutinizing attention offered nothing either in manner or matter to rescue his decision from their censure Mrs Tyrold therefore rejoiced at his absence lest a coolness she knew not how to repress should have led him to surmise her disappointment Her husband besought her to be guarded We had no right he said to the disposal of his heart and Indiana however he may find her inadequate to his future expectations will not disgrace his present choice She is beautiful she is young and she is innocent this in early life is sufficient for felicity and Edgar is yet too new in the world to be aware how much of life remains when youth is gone and too unpractised to foresee that beauty loses its power even before it loses its charms and that the season of declining nature sighs deeply for the support which sympathy and intelligence can alone bestow
CHAPTER IX
An Explication
The visit which Camilla had designed this morning to Mrs Arlbery she had been induced to relinquish through a speech made to her by Lionel You have done for yourself now said he exultingly so you may be governed by that scarecrow Miss Margland at your leisure Do you know you were not once mentioned again at the Grove neither by Mrs Arlbery nor any body else and they all agreed Indiana was the finest girl in the world
Camilla though of the same opinion with respect to Indiana concluded Mrs Arlbery was offended by her retreat and lost all courage for offering any apology
Edgar did not return to Cleves till some time after the departure of Mr and Mrs Tyrold when he met Miss Margland and the young ladies strolling in the park
Camilla running to meet him asked if he had restored the locket to the right owner
No answered he smiling not yet
What can be done then my half guinea is gone and to confess the truth I have not another I can well spare
He made no immediate reply but after speaking to the rest of the party walked on towards the house
Camilla in some perplexity following him exclaimed Pray tell me what I must do indeed I am quite uneasy
You would really have me give the locket to its rightful proprietor
To be sure I would
My commission then is soon executed And taking a little shagreen case from his waistcoat pocket he put it into her hand
What can you mean is there still any mistake
None but what you may immediately rectify by simply retaining your own prize
Camilla opening the case saw the locket and perceived under the crystal a light knot of braided hair But while she looked at it he hurried into the house
She ran after him and insisted upon an explanation declaring it to be utterly impossible that the locket and the half guinea should belong to the same person
You must not then he said be angry if you find I have managed at last but aukwardly When I came to the library the master of the raffle told me it was against all rule to refund a subscription He stopt
The half guinea you put into my hand then cried she colouring was your own
My dear Miss Camilla there is no other occasion upon which I would have hazarded such a liberty but as the money was for a charity and as I had undertaken what I could not perform I rather ventured to replace it than suffer the poor objects for whom it was destined to miss your kind intention
You have certainly done right said she feeling for her purse but you must not for that reason make me a second time do wrong
You will not so much hurt me replied he gravely you will not reprove me as if I were a stranger a mere common acquaintance Where could the money have been so well bestowed It is not you but those poor people who are in my debt So many were the chances against your gaining the prize that it was an event I had not even taken into consideration I had merely induced you to leave the shop that you might not have the surprise of finding your name was not withdrawn the rest was accident and surely you will not punish me that I have paid to the poor the penalty of my own ill weighed officiousness
Camilla put up her purse but with some spirit said There is another way to settle the matter which cannot hurt you if I do not pay you my half guinea you must at least keep the fruits of your own And she returned him the locket
And what cried he laughing must I do with it would you have me wear it myself
Give it answered she innocently to Indiana
No replied he reddening and putting it down upon a table but you may if you believe her value will be greater than your own for the hair of your two sisters
Camilla surprised again looked at it and recognized the hair of Lavinia and Eugenia
And how in the world did you get this hair
I told them both the accident that had happened and begged them to contribute their assistance to obtain your pardon
Is it possible cried she with vivacity you could add to all your trouble so kind a thought and without a moments further hesitation she accepted the prize returning him the most animated thanks and flying to Eugenia to inquire further into the matter and then to her uncle to shew him her new acquisition
Sir Hugh like herself immediately said But why did he not give it to Indiana
I suppose said Eugenia because Camilla had herself drawn the prize and he had only added our hair to it
This perfectly satisfied the baronet but Indiana could by no means understand why it had not been managed better and Miss Margland with much ill will nourished a private opinion that the prize might perhaps have been her own had not Mandlebert interfered However as there seemed some collusion which she could not develope her conscience wholly acquitted her of any necessity to refund her borrowed half guinea
Camilla meanwhile decorated herself with the locket and had nothing in her possession which gave her equal delight
Miss Margland now became internally less sanguine with regard to the preference of Edgar for Indiana but she concealed from Sir Hugh a doubt so unpleasant through an unconquerable repugnance to acknowledge it possible she could have formed a wrong judgment
CHAPTER X
A Panic
Upon the ensuing Sunday Edgar proposed that a party should be made to visit a new little cottage which he had just fitted up This was agreed to and as it was not above a mile from the parish church Sir Hugh ordered that his low garden phaeton should be in readiness after the service to convey himself and Eugenia thither The rest as the weather was fine desired to walk
They went to the church as usual in a coach and a chaise which were dismissed as soon as they alighted but before that period Eugenia with a sigh had observed that Melmond the young Oxonian was strolling the same way and had seen with a blush that Bellamy was by his side
The two gentlemen recognised them as they were crossing the churchyard The Oxonian bowed profoundly but stood aloof Bellamy bowed also but immediately approached and as Sir Hugh at that moment accidentally let fall his stick darted forward to recover and present it him
The baronet from surprise at his quick motion dropt his handkerchief in receiving his cane this also Bellamy attentively shaking restored to him and Sir Hugh who could accept no civility unrequited said Sir if you are a stranger as I imagine not knowing your face you are welcome to a place in my pew provided you dont get a seat in a better which Im pretty much afraid you cant mine being the best
The invitation was promptly accepted
Miss Margland always happy to be of consequence was hastening to Sir Hugh to put him upon his guard when a respectful offer from Bellamy to assist her down the steps induced her to remit her design to a future opportunity Any attentions from a young man were now so new to her as to seem a call upon her gratitude nor had her charms ever been so attractive as to render them common
Edgar and Indiana knowing nothing of his late declaration thought nothing of his present admission to Dr Orkborne he was an utter stranger but Camilla had recourse to her fan to conceal a smile and Eugenia was in the utmost confusion She felt at a loss how to meet his eyes and seated herself as much as possible out of his way
A few minutes after looking up towards the gallery she perceived in one of the furthest rows young Melmond his eyes fixt upon their pew but withdrawn the instant he was observed and his air the most melancholy and dejected
Again a half sigh escaped the tender Eugenia How delicate how elegant thought she is this retired behaviour what refinement results from a true literary taste O such be Clermont if he resemble not this Oxonian—I must be wretched for life
These ideas, which unavoidably though unwillingly interrupted her devotion were again broken in upon when the service was nearly over by the appearance of Lionel He had ridden five miles to join them merely not to be thought in leadingstrings by staying at Etherington to hear his father though the name and the excellence of the preaching of Mr Tyrold attracted to his church all strangers who had power to reach it—so vehement in early youth is the eagerness to appear independant and so general is the belief that all merit must be sought from a distance
The deeper understanding of Mandlebert rendered him superior to this common puerility and though the preacher at Cleves church was his own tutor Dr Marchmont from whom he was scarce yet emancipated he listened to him with reverence and would have travelled any distance and taken cheerfully any trouble that would in the best and strongest manner have marked the respect with which he attended to his doctrine
Dr Marchmont was a man of the highest intellectual accomplishments uniting deep learning with general knowledge and the graceful exterior of a man of the world with the erudition and science of a fellow of a college He obtained the esteem of the scholar wherever he was known and caught the approbation of the most uncultivated wherever he was seen
When the service was over Edgar proposed that Dr Marchmont should join the party to the cottage Sir Hugh was most willing and they sauntered about the church while the Doctor retired to the vestry to take off his gown
During this interval Eugenia who had a passion for reading epitaphs and inscriptions became so intently engaged in decyphering some old verses on an antique tablet that she perceived not when Dr Marchmont was ready nor when the party was leaving the church and before any of the rest missed her Bellamy suddenly took the opportunity of her being out of sight of all others to drop on one knee and passionately seize her hand exclaiming O madam— When hearing an approaching step he hastily arose but parted not with her hand till he had pressed it to his lips
The astonished Eugenia though at first all emotion was completely recovered by this action His kneeling and his O madam had every chance to affect her but his kissing her hand she thought a liberty the most unpardonable She resented it as an injury to Clermont that would risk his life should he ever know it and a blot to her own delicacy as irreparable as it was irremediable
Bellamy who from her letter had augured nothing of hardness of heart tenderly solicited her forgiveness but she made him no answer silent and offended she walked away and losing her timidity in her displeasure went up to her uncle and whispered Sir the gentleman you invited into your pew is Mr Bellamy
The consternation of Sir Hugh was extreme he had concluded him a stranger to the whole party because a stranger to himself and the discovery of his mistake made him next conclude that he had risked a breach of the marriage he so much desired by his own indiscretion He took Eugenia immediately under his arm as if fearful she might else be conveyed away for Scotland before his eyes and hurrying to the church porch called aloud for his phaeton
The phaeton was not arrived
Still more dismayed he walked on with Eugenia to the railing round the churchyard motioning with his left hand that no one should follow
Edgar Lionel and Bellamy marched to the road listening for the sound of horses but they heard none and the carriages of the neighbouring gentry from which they might have hoped any assistance had been driven away while they had waited for Dr Marchmont
Meanwhile the eyes of Eugenia again caught the young Oxonian who was wandering around the churchyard neither was he unobserved by Indiana who though she participated not in the turn of reasoning, or taste for the romantic which awakened in Eugenia so forcible a sympathy was yet highly gratified by his apparent devotion to her charms and had not Miss Margland narrowly watched and tutored her would easily have been attracted from the cold civilities of Edgar to the magnetism of animated admiration
In these circumstances a few minutes appeared many hours to Sir Hugh and he presently exclaimed Theres no possibility of waiting here the whole day long not knowing what may be the end Then calling to Dr Orkborne he said to him in a low voice My good friend heres happened a sad thing that young man I asked into my pew for which I take proper shame to myself is the same person that wanted to make Eugenia give up Clermont Lynmere her own natural relation and mine into the bargain for the sake of a stranger to us all which I hold to be rather uncommendable considering we know nothing about him though theres no denying his being handsome enough to look at which however, is no certainty of his making a good husband so Ill tell you a mode Ive thought of which I think to be a pretty good one for parting them out of hand
Dr Orkborne who had just taken out his tablets in order to enter some hints relative to his great work begged him to say no more till he had finished his sentence The baronet looked much distressed but consented and when he had done went on
Why if you will hold Eugenia Ill go up to the rest and send them on to the cottage and when they are gone I shall get rid of this young chap by telling him Eugenia and I want to be alone
Dr Orkborne assented and Sir Hugh advancing to the group made his proposition adding Eugenia and I will overtake you as soon as the gardenchair comes which I dare say wont be long Robert being so behindhand already Then turning to Bellamy I am sorry sir he said I cant possibly ask you to stay with us because of something my little niece and I have got to talk about which we had rather nobody should hear being an affair of our own but I thank you for your civility sir in picking up my stick and my pocket handkerchief and I wish you a very good morning and a pleasant walk which I hope you wont take ill
Bellamy bowed and saying he by no means intended to intrude himself into the company slowly drew back
Edgar then pointed out a path through the fields that would considerably abridge the walk if the ladies could manage to cross over a dirty lane on the other side of the churchyard
The baronet who was in high spirits at the success of his scheme declared that if there was a short cut they should not part company for he could walk it himself Edgar assured him it could not be more than half a mile and offered him the use of his arm
No no my good young friend answered he smiling significantly take care of Indiana I have got a good stick which I hold to be worth any arm in Christendom except for not being alive so take care of Indiana I say
Edgar bowed but with a silence and gravity not unmixt with surprise and Sir Hugh a little struck hastily added Nay nay I mean no harm
No sir said Edgar recovering you can mean nothing but good when you give me so fair a charge And he placed himself at the side of Indiana
Well then now cried Sir Hugh Ill marshal you all and first for my little Camilla who shall come to my proper share for shes certainly the best companion of the whole which I hope nobody will take for a slight all of us not being the same without any fault of our own Dr Orkborne shall keep to Eugenia because if there should be a want of conversation they can go over some of their lessons Lionel shall take the care of Mrs Margland it being always right for the young to help people a little stricken and as for the odd one Dr Marchmont why he may join little Camilla and me for as shes none of the steadiest and I am none of the strongest it is but fair the one over should be between us
Everybody professed obedience but Lionel who with a loud laugh called to Edgar to change partners
We are all under orders answered he quietly and I must not be the first to mutiny
Indiana smiled with triumph but Miss Margland firing with anger declared she wanted no help and would accept none
Sir Hugh was now beginning an expostulation with his nephew but Lionel preferred compliance to hearing it yet to obviate the ridicule which he was persuaded would follow such an acquiescence he strided up to Miss Margland with hasty steps and dropping on one knee in the dust seized and kissed her hand but precipitately rising and shaking himself called out My dear maam have you never a little cloathsbrush in your pocket I cant kneel again else
Miss Margland wrathfully turned from him and the party proceeded to a small gate at the back of the church that opened to the lane mentioned by Edgar over which when the rest of the company had passed into a beautiful meadow Lionel offered his hand for conducting Miss Margland who rejected it disdainfully
Then you will be sure to fall said he
Not unless you do something to make me
You will be sure to fall he repeated coolly
Much alarmed she protested she would not get over before him
He absolutely refused to go first
The whole party stopt and Bellamy who had hitherto stood still and back now ventured to approach and in the most courteous manner to offer his services to Miss Margland She looked victoriously around her but as he had spoken in a low voice only said Sir to make him repeat his proposal more audibly He complied and the impertinencies of Lionel rendered his civility irresistible I am glad she cried there is still one gentleman left in the world And accepted his assistance though her persecutor whispered that her spark was a dead man and strutted significantly away
Half frightened half suspecting she was laughed at she repeated softly to Sir Hugh the menace of his nephew begging that to prevent mischief she might still retain Bellamy
Lord be good unto me cried he what amazing fools the boys of now adays are grown with all their learning and teaching and classics at their tongues end for nothing However not to set them together by the ears till they grow a little wiser which I take it wont be of one while why you must een let this strange gentleman walk with you till tother boys further off However this one thing pray mind lowering his voice keep him all to yourself if he does but so much as look at Eugenia give him to understand its a thing I shant take very kind of him
Beckoning then to Dr Orkborne he uneasily said As I am now obliged to have that young fellow along with us for the sake of preventing an affray about nobody knows what which is the common reason of quarrels among those raw young fry I beg you to keep a particular sharp look out that he does not take the opportunity to run off with Eugenia
The spirit of the baronet had overrated his strength and he was forced to sit upon the lower step of a broad stile at the other end of the meadow while Miss Margland who leant her tall thin figure against a fivebarred gate willingly obviated his solicitude about Eugenia by keeping Bellamy in close and unabating conference with herself
A circumstance in the scenery before him now struck Dr Orkborne with some resemblance to a verse in one of Virgils Eclogues which he thought might be happily applied to illustrate a passage in his own work taking out therefore his tablets he begged Eugenia not to move and wrote his quotation which leading him on to some reflections upon the subject soon drove his charge from his thoughts and consigned him solely to his pencil
Eugenia willingly kept her place at his side offended by Bellamy she would give him no chance of speaking with her and the protection under which her uncle had placed her she deemed sacred
Here they remained but a short time when their ears received the shock of a prodigious roar from a bull in the field adjoining Miss Margland screamed and hid her face with her hands Indiana taught by her lessons to nourish every fear as becoming shriekt still louder and ran swiftly away deaf to all that Edgar who attended her could urge Eugenia to whom Bellamy instantly hastened seeing the beast furiously make towards the gate almost unconsciously accepted his assistance to accelerate her flight from its vicinity while Dr Orkborne intent upon his annotations calmly wrote on sensible there was some disturbance but determining to evade inquiring whence it arose till he had secured what he meant to transmit to posterity from the treachery of his memory
Camilla the least frightened because the most enured to such sounds from the habits and the instruction of her rural life and education adhered firmly to Sir Hugh who began blessing himself with some alarm but whom Dr Marchmont reassured by saying the gate was secured and too high for the bull to leap even supposing it a vicious animal
The first panic was still in its meridian when Lionel rushing past the beast which he had secretly been tormenting skipt over the gate with every appearance of terror and called out Save yourselves all Miss Margland in particular for heres a mad bull
A second astounding bellow put a stop to any question and wholly checked the immediate impulse of Miss Margland to ask why she was thus selected she snatched her hands from her face not doubting she should see her esquire soothingly standing by her side but though internally surprised and shocked to find herself deserted she gathered strength to run from the gate with the nimbleness of youth and flying to the stile regardless of Sir Hugh and forgetting all her charges scrambled over it and ran on from the noise without looking to the right or the left
Sir Hugh whom Lionels information and Miss Marglands pushing past him had extremely terrified was now also getting over the stile with the assistance of Dr Marchmont ejaculating Lord help us what a poor race we are No safety for us if we only come out once in a dozen years we must meet with a mad bull
He had however insisted that Camilla should jump over first saying Theres no need of all of us being tost my dear girl because of my slowness which is no fault of mine but of Roberts not being in the way which must needs make the poor fellow unhappy enough when he hears of it which no doubt I shall let him do according to his deserts
The other side of the stile brought them to the high road Lionel who had only wished to torment Miss Margland felt his heart smite him when he saw the fright of his uncle and flew to acquaint him that he had made a mistake for the bull was only angry not mad
The unsuspicious baronet thanked him for his good news and sat upon a bank till the party could be collected
This however was not soon to be done the dispersion from the meadow having been made in every possible direction
CHAPTER XI
Two Lovers
Indiana intent but upon running on had nearly reached the churchyard without hearkening to one word of the expostulating Mandlebert when leaning over a tombstone on which she had herself leant while waiting for the carriage she perceived the young Oxonian An instinctive spirit of coquetry made her now increase her pace he heard the rustling of female approach and looked up her beauty heightened by her flight which animated her complexion while it displayed her fine form seemed more than ever celestial to the enamoured student who darted forward from an impulse of irresistible surprise O Heaven she cried panting and stopping as he met her I shall die I shall die—I am pursued by a mad bull
Edgar would have explained that all was safe but Melmond neither heard nor saw him—O give me then he cried emphatically give me the ecstasy to protect—to save you
His outspread arms shewed his intention to bear her away but Edgar placing himself between them said Pardon me sir this lady is under my care
O dont fight about me dont quarrel cried Indiana with an apprehension half simple half affected
No Madam answered Melmond respectfully retreating I know too—too well my little claim in such a dispute—Permit me however to assist you Mr Mandlebert in your search of refuge and deign madam to endure me in your sight till this alarm passes away
Indiana by no means insensible to this language looked with some elation at Edgar to see how he bore it
Edgar was not surprised he had already observed the potent impression made by the beauty of Indiana upon the Oxonian and was struck in defiance of its romance and suddenness with its air of sincerity he only therefore gently answered that there was not the least cause of fear
O how can you say so said Indiana how can you take so little interest in me
At least at least cried Melmond trembling with eagerness condescend to accept a double guard—Refuse not Mr Mandlebert to suffer any attendance
Mandlebert a little embarrassed answered I have no authority to decide for Miss Lynmere but certainly I see no occasion for my assistance
Melmond fervently clasped his hands and exclaimed Do not do not madam command me to leave you till all danger is over
The little heart of Indiana beat high with triumph she thought Mandlebert jealous Miss Margland had often told her there was no surer way to quicken him and even independently of this idea the spirit the ardour the admiration of the Oxonian had a power upon her mind that needed no auxiliary for delighting it
She curtsied her consent but declared she would never go back the same way They proceeded therefore by a little round to the high road which led to the field in which the party had been dispersed
Indiana was full of starts little shrieks and palpitations every one of which rendered her in the eyes of the Oxonian more and more captivating and while Edgar walked gravely on reflecting with some uneasiness upon being thus drawn in to suffer the attendance of a youth so nearly a stranger upon a young lady actually under his protection Melmond was continually ejaculating in return to her perpetual apprehensions What lovely timidity—What bewitching softness—What feminine what beautiful delicacy—How sweet in terror—How soulpiercing in alarm
These exclamations were nearly enchanting to Indiana whose only fear was lest they should not be heard by Edgar and whenever they ceased whenever a pause and respectful silence took their place new starts fresh palpitations and designed false steps again called them forth while the smile with which she repaid their enthusiastic speaker was fuel to his flame but poison to his peace
They had not proceeded far when they were met by Miss Margland who in equal trepidation from anger and from fear was still making the best of her way from the bellowing of the bull Edgar inquired for Sir Hugh and the rest of the party but she could speak only of Lionel his insolence and his ill usage protesting nothing but her regard for Indiana could induce her to live a moment longer under his uncles roof
But where again cried Edgar where is Sir Hugh and where are the ladies
Tossed by the bull answered she pettishly for aught I know I did not choose to stay and be tossed myself and a person like Mr Lionel can soon make such a beast point at one if he takes it into his humour
Edgar then begged they might hasten to their company but Miss Margland positively refused to go back and Indiana always ready to second any alarm declared she should quite sink with fright if they went within a hundred yards of that horrid field Edgar still pleaded that the baronet would expect them but Melmond in softer tones spoke of fears sensibility and dangers and Edgar soon found he was talking to the winds
All now that remained to prevent further separations was that Edgar should run on to the party and acquaint them that Miss Margland and Indiana would wait for them upon the high road
Melmond meanwhile felt in paradise even the presence of Miss Margland could not restrain his rapture upon a casualty that gave him such a charge though it forced him to forbear making the direct and open declaration of his passion with which his heart was burning and his tongue quivering He attended them both with the most fervent respect evidently very gratifying to the object of his adoration though not noticed by Miss Margland who was wholly absorbed by her own provocations
Edgar soon reached the bank by the roads side upon which the baronet Dr Marchmont Lionel and Camilla were seated Lord help us exclaimed Sir Hugh aghast at his approach if here is not young Mr Edgar without Indiana This is a thing I could never have expected from you young Mr Edgar that you should leave her I dont know where and come without her
Edgar assured him she was safe and under the care of Miss Margland but that neither of them could be prevailed with to come farther he had therefore advanced to inquire after the rest of the party and to arrange where they should all assemble
You have done very right then my dear Mr Edgar as you always do as far as I can make out when I come to the bottom And now I am quite easy about Indiana But as to Eugenia what Dr Orkborne has done with her is more than I can devise unless indeed they are got to studying some of their Greek verbs and so forgot us all which is likely enough only I had rather they had taken another time not much caring to stay here longer than I can help
Edgar said he would make a circuit in search of them but first addressing Camilla You alone he cried with an approving smile have remained thus quiet while all else have been scampering apart making confusion worse confounded
I have lived too completely in the country to be afraid of cattle she answered and Dr Marchmont assured me there was no danger
You can listen then even when you are alarmed said he expressively to the voice of reason!'
Camilla raised her eyes and looked at him but dropt them again without making any answer Can you she thought have been pleading it in vain How I wonder at Indiana
He then set out to seek Eugenia recommending the same office to Lionel by another route but Lionel no sooner gathered where Miss Margland might be met with than his repentance was forgotten and he quitted everything to encounter her
Edgar spent near half an hour in his search without the smallest success he was then seriously uneasy and returning to the party when a countryman to whom he was known told him he had seen Miss Eugenia Tyrold with a very handsome fine town gentleman going into a farm house
Edgar flew to the spot and through a window as he advanced perceived Eugenia seated and Bellamy kneeling before her
Amazed and concerned he abruptly made his way into the apartment Bellamy rose in the utmost confusion and Eugenia starting and colouring caught Edgar by the arm but could not speak
He told her that her uncle and the whole company were waiting for her in great anxiety
And where where cried she are they I have been in agonies about them all and I could not prevail—I could not—this gentleman said the risk was so great—he would not suffer me—but he has sent for a chaise though I told him I had a thousand times rather hazard my life amongst them and with them than save it alone
They are all perfectly safe nor has there ever been any danger
I was told—I was assured— said Bellamy that a mad bull was running wild about the country and I thought it therefore advisable to send for a chaise from the nearest inn that I might return this young lady to her friends
Edgar made no answer but offered his arm to conduct Eugenia to her uncle She accepted it and Bellamy attended on her other side
Edgar was silent the whole way The attitude in which he had surprised Bellamy by assuring him of the nature of his pretensions had awakened doubts the most alarming of the destination in view for the chaise which he had ordered and he believed that Eugenia was either to have been beguiled or betrayed into a journey the most remote from the home to which she belonged
Eugenia increased his suspicions by the mere confusion which deterred her from removing them Bellamy had assured her she was in the most eminent personal danger and had hurried her from field to field with an idea that the dreaded animal was in full pursuit When carried however into the farm house she lost all apprehension for herself in fears for her friends and insisted upon sharing their fate Bellamy who immediately ordered a chaise then cast himself at her feet to entreat she would not throw away her life by so rash a measure
Exhausted from her lameness she was forced to sit still and such was their situation at the entrance of Edgar She wished extremely to explain what had been the object of the solicitation of Bellamy and to clear him as well as herself from any further surmises but she was ashamed to begin the subject Edgar had seen a man at her feet and she thought herself it was a cruel injury to Clermont though she knew not how to refuse it forgiveness since it was merely to supplicate she would save her own life
Bellamy therefore was the only one who spoke and his unanswered observations contributed but little to enliven the walk
When they came within sight of the party the baronet was again seized with the extremest dismay Why now whats this cried he heres nothing but blunders Pray Sir who gave you authority to take my niece from her own tutor for so I may call him though more properly speaking he came amongst us to be mine which however, is no affair but of our own
Sir answered Bellamy advancing and bowing I hope I have had the happiness of rather doing service than mischief I saw the young lady upon the point of destruction and I hastened her to a place of security from whence I had ordered a postchaise to convey her safe to your house
Yes my dear uncle said Eugenia recovering from her embarrassment I have occasioned this gentleman infinite trouble and though Mr Mandlebert assures us there was no real danger he thought there was and therefore I must always hold myself to be greatly obliged to him
Well if thats the case I must be obliged to him too which to tell you the truth is not a thing I am remarkably fond of having happened But wheres Dr Orkborne I hope hes come to no harm by his not shewing himself
At the moment of terror said Eugenia I accepted the first offer of assistance concluding we were all hurrying away at the same time but I saw Dr Orkborne no more afterwards
I cant say that was over and above kind of him nor careful neither cried Sir Hugh considering some particular reasons however where is he now
Nobody could say no one had seen or observed him
Why then ten to one poor gentleman exclaimed the baronet but hes the very person himself whos tossed while we are all of us running away for nothing
A suspicion now occurred to Dr Marchmont which led him to return over the stile into the field where the confusion had begun and there on the exact spot where he had first taken out his tablets calmly stood Dr Orkborne looking now upon his writing now up to the sky but seeing nothing any where from intense absorption of thought upon the illustration he was framing
Awakened from his reverie by the Doctor his first recollection was of Eugenia he had not doubted her remaining quietly by his side and the moment he looked round and missed her he felt considerable compunction The good Doctor however assured him all were safe and conducted him to the group
So here you are said the baronet and no more tossed than myself for which I am sincerely thankful though I cant say I think you have taken much care of my niece nobody knowing what might have become of her if it had not been for that strange gentleman that I never saw before
He then formally placed Eugenia under the care of Dr Marchmont
Dr Orkborne piqued by this transfer sullenly followed and now gave to her pertinaciously his undivided attention Drawn by a total revulsion of ideas from the chain of thinking that had led him to composition he relinquished his annotations in resentment of this dismission when he might have pursued them uninterruptedly without neglect of other avocations
CHAPTER XII
Two Doctors
A council was now held upon what course must next be taken Both Sir Hugh and Eugenia were too much fatigued to walk any further yet it was concluded that the garden chair by some mistake was gone straight to the cottage Edgar therefore proposed running thither to bring it round for them while Dr Orkborne should go forward for Miss Margland and Indiana and conduct them by the high road to the same place where the whole party might at length reassemble Sir Hugh approved the plan and he set off instantly
But not so Dr Orkborne he thought himself disgraced by being sent from one post to another and though Eugenia was nothing to him in competition with his tablets and his work his own instructions had so raised her in his mind that he thought her the only female worthy a moment of his time Indiana he looked upon with ineffable contempt the incapacity she had shewn during the short time she was under his pupillage had convinced him of the futility of her whole sex from which he held Eugenia to be a partial exception and Miss Margland who never spoke to him but in a voice of haughty superiority and whom he never answered but with an air of solemn superciliousness was his rooted aversion He could not brook being employed in the service of either he stood therefore motionless till Sir Hugh repeated the proposition.
Not caring to disoblige him he then without speaking slowly and unwillingly moved forwards
I see said the baronet softened rather than offended he does not much like to leave his little scholar which is but natural though I took it rather unkind his letting the poor thing run against the very horns of the bull as one may say if it had not been for a mere accidental passenger However one must always make allowance for a man that takes much to his studies those things generally turning the head pretty much into a narrow compass
He then called after him and said if the walk would tire him he would wait till they came of themselves which no doubt they would soon do as Lionel was gone for them
Dr Orkborne gladly stopt but Dr Marchmont seeing little likelihood of a general meeting without some trouble offered to take the commission upon himself with a politeness that seemed to shew it to be a wish of his own
Sir Hugh accepted his kindness with thanks and Dr Orkborne though secretly disconcerted by such superior alacrity in so learned a man was well content to reinstate himself by the side of his pupil
Sir Hugh who saw the eyes of Bellamy constantly turned towards Eugenia thought his presence highly dangerous and with much tribulation said As I find sir we may all have to stay here I dont know how long I hope you wont be affronted after my best thanks for your keeping my niece from the bull if I dont make any particular point of begging the favour of you to stay much longer with us
Bellamy extremely chagrined cast an appealing look at Eugenia and expressing his regret that his services were inadmissible made his retreat with undisguised reluctance
Eugenia persuaded she owed him a serious obligation for his care as well as for his partiality felt the sincerest concern at his apparent distress and contributed far more than she intended to its removal by the gentle countenance with which she received his sorrowful glance
Bellamy hastily overtaking Dr Marchmont darted on before him in search of Miss Margland and Indiana who far from advancing were pacing their way back to the churchyard Lionel had joined them and the incensed Miss Margland had encouraged the glad attendance of the Oxonian as a protection to herself
The sight of Bellamy by no means tended to disperse the storm She resented his deserting her while she was in danger and desired to see no more of him But when he had respectfully suffered her wrath to vent itself he made apologies with an obsequiousness so rare to her and a deference so strikingly contrasted with the daring ridicule of Lionel that she did not long oppose the potent charm of adulation—a charm which however it may be sweetened by novelty seldom loses its effect by any familiarity
During these contests Indiana was left wholly to young Melmond and the temptation was too strong for his impassioned feelings to withstand O fairest he cried fairest and most beautiful of all created beings Can I resist—no this one one effusion—the first and the last The sensibility of your mind will plead for me—I read it in those heavenly eyes—they emit mercy in their beauty they are as radiant with goodness as with loveliness alas I trespass—I blush and dare not hope your forgiveness
He stopt terrified at his own presumption but the looks of Indiana were never more beautiful and never less formidable A milder doom therefore seemed suddenly to burst upon his view Elated and enraptured he vehemently exclaimed Oh were my lot not irrevocably miserable were the smallest ray of light to beam upon my despondence—
Indiana still spoke not a word but she withdrew not her smiles and the enraptured student lifted into the highest bliss by the permission even of a doubt walked on transported by her side too happy in suspence to wish an explanation
In this manner they proceeded till they were joined by Dr Marchmont The task he had attempted was beyond his power of performance Miss Margland was inexorable she declared nothing should induce her to go a step towards the field inhabited by the bull and every assurance of safety the Doctor could urge was ineffectual
He next assailed Indiana but her first terror soothed by the compassion and admiration of Melmond was now revived and she protested almost with tears that to go within a hundred yards of that dreadful meadow would make her undoubtedly faint away The tender commiseration of Melmond confirmed her apprehensions and she soon looked upon Dr Marchmont as a barbarian for making the proposal
The Doctor then commended them to the care of Lionel and returned with this repulse to Sir Hugh
The baronet incapable of being angry with any one he conceived to be frightened said they should be pressed no more for he would give up going to the cottage and put his best foot forward to walk on to them himself adding he was so overjoyed to have got rid of that young spark that he had no fear but that he and poor Eugenia too should both do as well as they could
They proceeded very slowly the baronet leaning upon Dr Marchmont and Eugenia upon Dr Orkborne who watchful with no small alarm of the behaviour of the only man he had yet seen with any internal respect since he left the university sacrificed completely his notes and his tablets to emulate his attentions
When they approached the churchyard in which Miss Margland and her party had halted Sir Hugh perceived Bellamy He stopt short calling out with extreme chagrin Lord help us what a thing it is to rejoice which one never knows the right season to do on the score of meeting with disappointments
Then after a little meditation There is but one thing he cried to be done which is to guard from the first against any more mischief having already had enough of it for one morning not to say more than I could have wished by half So do you good Dr Marchmont take Eugenia under your own care and Ill make shift with Dr Orkborne for myself for in the case he should take again to writing or thinking it will be nothing to me to keep still till he has done provided it should happen at a place where I can sit down
Dr Orkborne had never felt so deeply hurt the same commission transferred to Edgar or to Lionel would have failed to affect him he considered them as of an age fitted for such frivolous employment which he thought as much below his dignity as the young men themselves were beneath his competition but the comfort of contempt a species of consolation ever ready to offer itself to the impulsive pride of man was here an alleviation he could not call to his aid the character of Dr Marchmont stood as high in erudition as his own and though his acquaintance with him was merely personal the fame of his learning the only attribute to which fame in his conception belonged had reached him from authority too unquestionable for doubt The urbanity therefore of his manners his general diffusion of discourse and his universal complaisance filled him with astonishment and raised an emotion of envy which no other person would have been deemed worthy of exciting
But though his long and fixed residence at Cleves had now removed the timid circumspection with which he first sought to ensure his establishment he yet would not venture any positive refusal to the baronet he resigned therefore his young charge to his new and formidable opponent and even exerted himself to mark some alacrity in assisting Sir Hugh But his whole real attention was upon Dr Marchmont whom his eye followed in every motion to discover if possible by what art unknown he had acquired such a command over his thoughts and understanding as to bear patiently nay pleasantly with the idle and unequal companions of general society
Dr Marchmont who was rector of Cleves had been introduced to Sir Hugh upon the baronets settling in the large mansionhouse of that village but he had not visited at the house nor had his company been solicited Sir Hugh who could never separate understanding from learning nor want of education from folly concluded that such a man as Dr Marchmont must necessarily despise him and though the extreme sweetness of his temper made him draw the conclusion without resentment it so effectually prevented all wish of any intercourse that they had never conversed together till this morning and his surprise now at such civilities and good humour in so great a scholar differed only from that of Dr Orkborne in being accompanied with admiration instead of envy
Eugenia thus disposed of they were proceeding when Sir Hugh next observed the young Oxonian He was speaking with Indiana to whom his passionate devotion was glaring from his looks air and whole manner
Lord held me exclaimed he if there is not another of those new chaps that nobody knows anything about talking to Indiana and for aught I can tell to the contrary making love to her I think I never took such a bad walk as this before since the hour I was born in point of unluckiness Robert will have enough to answer for which he must expect to hear and indeed I am not much obliged to Mrs Margland herself and so I must needs tell her though it is not what I much like to do
He then made a sign to Miss Margland to approach him Mrs Margland he cried I should not have taken the liberty to beckon you in this manner but that I think it right to ask you what those two young gentlemen that I never saw before do in the churchyard which is a thing I think rather odd
As to that gentleman sir she answered bridling who was standing by me he is the only person I have found to protect me from Mr Lionel whose behaviour sir I must freely tell you—
Why certainly Mrs Margland I cant deny but hes rather a little over and above giddy but I am sure your understanding wont mind it in consideration of his being young enough to be your son in the case of your having been married time enough
He then desired Indiana would come to him
The rapture of the Oxonian was converted into torture by this summons and the suspence which the moment before he had gilded with the gay colours of hope he felt would be no longer supportable when deprived of the sight of his divinity Scarce could he refrain from casting himself publicly at her feet and pouring forth the wishes of his heart But when again the call was repeated and he saw her look another way as if desirous not to attend to it the impulse of quick rising joy dispersed his small remains of forbearance and precipitately clasping his hands O go not he passionately exclaimed leave me not in this abyss of suffering Fairest and most beautiful tell me at least if my death is inevitable if no time—no constancy—no adoration—may ever dare hope to penetrate that gentlest of bosoms
Indiana herself was now for the first time sensible of a little emotion the animation of this address delighted her it was new and its effect was highly pleasing How cold she thought is Edgar She made not any answer but permitted her eyes to meet his with the most languishing softness
Melmond trembled through his whole frame despair flew him and expectation wore her brightest plumage O pronounce but one word he cried one single word—are are you—O say not yes—irrevocably engaged—lost to all hope—all possibility for ever
Indiana again licensed her fine eyes with their most melting powers and all selfcontrol was finally over with her impassioned lover who mingling prayers for her favour with adoration of her beauty heeded not who heard him and forgot every presence but her own
Miss Margland who engrossed by personal resentment and debates had not remarked the rising courage and energy of Melmond had just turned to Indiana upon the second call of Sir Hugh and became now utterly confounded by the sight of her willing attention Miss Lynmere cried she angrily what are you thinking of Suppose Mr Mandlebert should come what might be the consequence
Mandlebert repeated Melmond while the blood forsook his cheeks is it then even so—is all over—all decided is my destiny black and ireful for ever
Indiana still more and more struck with him looked down internally uttering Ah were this charming youth but master of Beech Park
At this instant the rapid approach of a carriage caught their ears and eager to avoid making a decisive reply she ran to the churchyard gate to look at it exclaiming Dear what an elegant chariot When it came up to the party it stopt and opening the door himself Edgar jumped hastily out of it
The Oxonian stood aghast but Indiana springing forward and losing in curiosity every other sensation cried Dear Mr Mandlebert whose beautiful new carriage is that
Yours answered he gallantly if you will honour it with any commands
She then observed his crest and cypher were on the panels and another entire new set of ideas took instant possession of her mind She received literally an answer which he had made in gay courtesy and held out her hand to be helped into the chariot
Edgar though surprised and even startled at this unexpected appropriation of his civility could not recede but the moment he had seated her hastily turned round to inquire who else was most fatigued
The Oxonian now felt lost suddenly abruptly but irretrievably lost The cypher he saw—the question whose carriage is that he heard—the answer yours made him gasp for breath and the instantaneous acceptance stung him to the soul Wholly in desperation he rushed to the opposite window of the chariot and calling out enough cruel—cruel—enough—I will see you no more hurried out of sight
Indiana who for the first time thought herself mistress of a new and elegant equipage was so busily employed in examining the trappings and the lining that she bore his departure without a sigh though but an instant before it might have cost her something near one
Eugenia had been touched more deeply She was ignorant of what had passed but she had seen the agitation of Melmond and the moment he disappeared she ejaculated secretly Ah had he conceived the prepossession of Bellamy where had been my steadiness where O Clermont thy security—
The scrupulous delicacy of her mind was shocked at this suggestion and she rejoiced she had not been put to such a trial
Edgar now explained that when he arrived at the cottage he found as he had foreseen the garden chair waiting there by mistake and Robert in much distress having just discovered that an accident had happened to one of the wheels He had run on therefore himself to Beech Park for his own new chariot which was lately arrived from town making Robert follow with Sir Hughs horses as his own were out at grass
It was dinnertime and Sir Hugh equally vexed and fatigued resolved to return straight home He accepted therefore a place in the chariot bid Eugenia follow him and Robert make haste solemnly adding to the latter I had fully intended making you the proper lecture upon your not coming in time but as it has turned out not to be your fault on account of an accident I shall say no more except to give you a hint not to do such a thing again because we have all been upon the point of being tossed by a mad bull which would certainly have happened but for the lucky chance of its turning out a false alarm
The remainder of the party proceeded without further adventure Edgar attended Camilla Miss Margland adhered to Bellamy Lionel who durst not venture at any new frolic but with whom time lingered when none was passing retreated Dr Marchmont who was near his home soon also made his bow and Dr Orkborne who was glad to be alone ruminated with wonder upon what appeared to him a phenomenon, a man of learning who could deign to please and seem pleased where books were not the subject of discourse and where scholastic attainments were not required to elucidate a single sentence
CHAPTER XIII
Two Ways of looking at the same Thing
When the party arrived at Cleves Camilla who had observed that Edgar seemed much disappointed by the breaking up of the cottage expedition proposed that it should take place in the evening and her uncle though too much fatigued to venture out again himself consented or rather insisted that the excursion should be made without him
Before they set out Edgar desired to speak with Sir Hugh in private
Sir Hugh concluded it was to make his proposals of marriage for Indiana and had not patience to step into his own apartment but told them all to retire with a nod at Indiana which prepared not only herself but Miss Margland Camilla and Eugenia to join in his expectation
Indiana though a good deal fluttered flew to a window to see if the new chariot was in sight and then turning to Miss Margland asked Pray should I refuse him at first
Miss Margland spared not for proper instructions and immediately began a negociation with the fair questioner for continuing to live with her
Eugenia was occupied in reflecting with pity upon the idleness of Indiana which so ill had fitted her for becoming the companion of Mandlebert
Camilla unusually thoughtful walked alone into the garden and sought a path least in sight
Sir Hugh meanwhile was most unpleasantly undeceived Edgar without naming Indiana informed him of the situation in which he had surprised Bellamy and of his suspicions with regard to the destination of the chaise but for his own timely arrival at the farmhouse adding that his gratitude to Mr Tyrold his respect for himself and his affection for all the family made him think it is duty to reveal these circumstances without delay
The baronet shuddered with horror and declared he would instantly send an express to bring Clermont home that Eugenia might be married out of hand and in the mean time that he would have every window in the house barred and keep her locked up in her room
Edgar dissuaded him from so violent a measure but advised him to speak with his niece upon the danger she had probably escaped and of which she seemed wholly unconscious to prevail with her not to go out again this evening and to send for Mr Tyrold and acquaint him with the affair
Sir Hugh thanked him for his counsel and implicitly acted by his opinion
He then ordered the coach for Miss Margland Indiana and Camilla
Dr Orkborne finding neither Sir Hugh nor Eugenia of the party declined joining it Lionel was returned to Etherington and Edgar rode on before to invite Dr Marchmont with the consent of the Baronet to take the fourth place in the carriage
Arrived at the rectory he went straight by prescriptive privilege into the study of Dr Marchmont whom he found immersed in books and papers which immediately at the request of Edgar he put aside not without regret to quit them though wholly without reluctance to oblige
Edgar had ridden so hard that they had some time to wait for the coach But he did not appear anxious for its arrival though he wore a look that was far from implying him to be free from anxiety
He was silent—he hemmed—he was silent again—and again he hemmed—and then gently laying his hand upon the shoulder of the Doctor while his eyes full of meaning were fixed upon his face Doctor he cried you would hardly have known these young ladies—they are all grown from children into women since you saw them last
Yes answered the Doctor and very charming women Indiana has a beauty so exquisite it is scarce possible to look away from it a moment Eugenia joins so much innocence with information that the mind must itself be deformed that could dwell upon her personal defects after conversing with her Camilla—
He paused and Edgar hastily turned another way not to look at him nor be looked at while he proceeded
Camilla he presently continued seems the most inartificially sweet the most unobtrusively gay and the most attractively lovely of almost any young creature I ever beheld
With a heart all expanded and a face full of sensibility Edgar now turned to him and seizing involuntarily his hand which he eagerly shook You think her then—he cried—but suddenly stopt dropt his hand coughed two or three times and taking out his pocket handkerchief seemed tormented with a violent cold
Dr Marchmont affectionately embraced him My dear young young friend he cried I see the situation of your mind—and think every possible happiness promises to be yours yet if you have taken no positive step suffer me to speak with you before you proceed
Far from having taken any positive step I have not yet even formed any resolution
Here the carriage stopt for the Doctor who repeated Yes I think every possible happiness promises to be yours before he went on to the ladies Edgar in a trepidation too great to be seen by them kept behind till they drove off though he then galloped so fast that he arrived at the cottage before them the words I think every possible happiness promises to be yours vibrating the whole time in his ears
When the coach arrived Edgar handed out Miss Margland and Indiana leaving Camilla to the Doctor willing to let him see more of her and by no means displeased to avoid his eyes at that moment himself
Indiana was in the most sprightly spirits she had ever experienced she concluded herself on the verge of becoming mistress of a fine place and a large fortune she had received adulation all the morning that had raised her beauty higher than ever in her own estimation and she secretly revolved with delight various articles of ornament and of luxury which she had long wished to possess and which now for her wedding clothes she should have riches sufficient to purchase
Miss Margland too was all smoothness complacency and courtesy
Camilla alone was grave Camilla who by nature was gay
Dear is this the cottage we have been coming to all this time cried Indiana upon entering Lord I thought it would have been something quite pretty
And what sort of prettiness said Edgar did you expect from a cottage
Dear I dont know—but I thought we were come on purpose to see something extraordinary
Camilla who followed made an exclamation far different an exclamation of pleasure surprise and vivacity that restored for an instant all her native gaiety for no sooner had she crossed the threshold than she recognised in a woman who was curtsying low to receive her and whom Indiana had passed without observing the wife of the poor prisoner for whom she had interceded with Mandlebert
How I rejoice to see you cried she and to see you here and how much better you look and how comfortable you seem I hope you are now all well
Ah madam answered the woman we owe everything to that good young gentleman he has put us in this nice new cottage and employs us in his service Blessings on his head I am sure he will be paid for it
Edgar somewhat agitated occupied himself with jumping the little boy Camilla looked round with rapture Indiana seemed wonderstruck without knowing why Dr Marchmont narrowly watched them all and Miss Margland expecting a new collection would be next proposed for setting them up nimbly recrossed the threshold to examine the prospect without
The husband now in decent garb and much recovered though still weak and emaciated advanced to Camilla to make his humble acknowledgments that she had recommended them to their kind benefactor
No cried Camilla you owe me nothing your own distress recommended you—your own distress—and Mr Mandleberts generosity
Then going up to Edgar It is your happy fate she said in an accent of admiration to act all that my father so often plans and wishes but which his income will not allow him to execute
You see answered he gratefully how little suffices for content I have scarce done anything—yet how relieved how satisfied are these poor people This hut was fortunately vacant—
O madam interrupted the poor woman if you knew but how that good gentleman has done it all how kindly he has used us and made everybody else use us and let nobody taunt us with our bad faults—and what good he has done to my poor sick husband and how he has clothed my poor little half naked children and what is more than all saved us from the shame of an ill life—
Camilla felt the tears start into her eyes—she hastily snatched the little babe into her arms and while her kisses hid her face Happy and thrice happy Indiana with a soft sigh was the silent ejaculation of her heart
She seated herself on a stool and without speaking or hearing any thing more devoted herself to the baby
Indiana meanwhile whose confidence in her own situation gave her courage to utter whatever first occurred to her having made a general survey of the place and people with an air of disappointment now amused herself with an inspection more minute taking up and casting down everything that was portable without any regard either to deranging its neatness or endangering its safety—exclaiming as she made her round of investigation Dear Crockery ware how ugly—Lord what little mean chairs—Is that your best gown good woman—Dear what an ugly pattern—Well I would not wear such a thing to save my life—Have you got nothing better than this for a floorcloth—Only look at those curtains Did you ever see such frights—Lord do you eat off these platters I am sure I could sooner die I should not mind starving half as much
Miss Margland hoping the collection was now either made or relinquished ventured to reenter and inquire if they never meant to return home Camilla unwillingly gave up the baby but would not depart without looking over the cottage where everything she saw excited a sensation of pleasure How neat is this How tidy that were her continual exclamations How bright you have rubbed your saucepans How clean every thing is all round How soon you will all get well in this healthy and comfortable little dwelling
Edgar in a low voice then told Dr Marchmont the history of his new cottagers saying You will not I hope disapprove what I have done Their natures seemed so much disposed to good I could not bear to let their wants turn them again to evil
You have certainly done right answered the Doctor to give money without inquiry or further aid to those who have adopted bad practices is to them but temptation and to society an injury but to give them both the counsel and the means to pursue a right course is to them perhaps salvation and to the community the greatest service
Indiana and Miss Margland quite wearied both got into the carriage Edgar having deposited them returned to Camilla who kissed both the children poured forth good wishes upon the father and mother and then gave him her hand Enchanted he took it exclaiming Ah who is like you so lively—yet so feeling
Struck and penetrated she made no answer Alas she thought I fear he is not quite satisfied with Indiana
Dr Marchmont was set down at his own house where he begged to have a conference with Edgar the next morning
The whole way home the benevolence of Edgar occupied the mind of Camilla and not in the present instance the less that its object had been originally of her own pointing out
CHAPTER XIV
Two Retreats
Mr and Mrs Tyrold had obeyed the summons of Sir Hugh whom they found in extreme tribulation persuaded by his fears not only of the design of Bellamy but of its inevitable success His brother however who knew his alarms to be generally as unfounded as his hopes and Mrs Tyrold who almost undisguisedly despised both no sooner heard his account than declining to discuss it they sent for Eugenia She related the transaction with a confusion so innocent that it was easy to discern shame alone had hitherto caused her silence and with a simplicity so unaffected that not a doubt could rest upon their minds but that her heart was as disengaged as her intentions had been irreproachable Yet they were not the less struck with the danger she had incurred and while her father blessed Mandlebert for her preservation her mother was so sensible to his care for the family welfare and honour that the anger she had conceived against him subsided though the regret to which it had owed its birth increased
Mr Tyrold gave his daughter some slight cautions and general advice but thought it wisest since he found her tranquil and unsuspicious not to raise apprehensions that might disturb her composure nor awaken ideas of which the termination must be doubtful
Her mother deemed the matter to be undeserving the least serious alarm The man had appeared to her from the beginning to be a despicable adventurer and her lofty contempt of all low arts made her conclude her wellprincipled Eugenia as superior to their snares as to their practice
This conference completely quieted the fears of Sir Hugh who relinquished his design of sending for Clermont and imagined Edgar to have been too severe in his judgment of Bellamy who had only knelt in pure compassion to prevail with Eugenia to take care of her life
The rector and his lady were already gone before the cottage group came home Edgar was anxious to inquire of Sir Hugh what had passed The three females concluding he had still something to say relative to his proposals by tacit agreement retired to their own rooms
They were not however as concurrent in their eagerness to reassemble Miss Margland and Indiana watched the moment when they might appease their burning curiosity by descending but Eugenia wished to prolong her absence that she might recover from the embarrassment she had just suffered and Camilla determined not to appear again till the next morning
For the first time in her life after the shortest separation she forbore to seek Eugenia who she supposed would have gathered all the particular of the approaching nuptials She felt no desire to hear them It was a period to which hitherto she had looked forward as to a thing of course but this day it had struck her that Edgar and Indiana could not be happy together—She had even surmised from his last speech that he lamented in secret the connexion he had formed
The gentlest pity took possession of her breast an increasing admiration succeeded to her pity She could not bear to witness so unequal a scene as the full satisfaction of Sir Hugh contrasted with the seriousness perhaps repentance of Edgar She pleaded an headache and went to bed
The morning did not find her less averse to hear the confirmation of the suspected news On the contrary her repugnance to have it ascertained became stronger She did not ask herself why she did not consider the uselessness of flying for one hour what she must encounter the next The present moment was all she could weigh and to procrastinate any evil seemed to her ardent and active imagination to conquer it Again therefore she planned a visit to Mrs Arlbery though she had given it up so long from the discouragement of Lionel that she felt more of shame than of pleasure in the idea of making so tardy an apology but she could think of no other place to which the whole party would not accompany her and to avoid them and their communications for however short a space of time was now her sole aim
Before breakfast she repaired to the apartment of her uncle her request was granted as soon as heard and she ordered the chaise
Indiana and Miss Margland meanwhile had learnt from the baronet that the proposals were not yet made Miss Margland softened the disappointment of Indiana by suggesting that her admirer was probably waiting the arrival of some elegant trinket that he destined to present her upon his declaration but she was by no means free from doubt and suspicion herself She languished to quit Cleves and Sir Hugh had almost thought her accountable for the slowness of Mandleberts proceedings To keep up her own consequence she had again repeated her assurances that all was in a prosperous train though she had frequently with strong private uneasiness observed the eyes of Edgar fixed upon Camilla with an attention far more pointed than she had ever remarked in them when their direction was towards her fair pupil
Camilla hurried over her breakfast in expectation of the chaise and in dread continual lest her cousin should call her aside to acquaint her that all was arranged Edgar perceived with surprise that she was going out alone and no sooner gathered whither than drawing her to one of the windows he earnestly said Is it by appointment you wait upon Mrs Arlbery
No
Does she at all expect you this morning
No
Would it then be asking too much if I should entreat you to postpone your visit for a short time
The whole design of Camilla was to absent herself immediately yet she hated to say no She looked disturbed and was silent
Have you made any further acquaintance with her since the morning of the raffle
No none but I wish excessively to know more of her
She is certainly very—agreeable said he with some hesitation but whether she is all Mrs Tyrold would approve—
I hope you know no harm of her—If you do pray keep it to yourself—for it would quite afflict me to hear anything to her disadvantage
I should be grieved indeed to be the messenger of affliction to you but I hope there may be no occasion I only beg a day or twos patience and in the meanwhile I can give you this assurance she is undoubtedly a woman of character I saw she had charmed you and I made some immediate inquiries Her reputation is without taint
A thousand thousand thanks cried Camilla gaily for taking so much trouble and ten thousand more for finding it needless
Edgar could not forbear laughing but answered he was not yet so certain it was needless since exemption from actual blemish could only be a negative recommendation he should very soon he added see a lady upon whose judgment he could rely and who would frankly satisfy him with respect to some other particulars which he owned he considered as essential to be known before any intimacy should be formed
Wishing to comply with his request yet impatient to leave the house Camilla stood suspended till the chaise was announced
I think cried she with a look and tone of irresolution my going this once can draw on no ill consequence
Edgar only dropt his eyes
You are not of that opinion
I have a very particular engagement this morning he replied but I will readily give it up and ride off instantly to make my application to this lady if it is possible you can defer only till tomorrow your visit Will you suffer me to ask such a delay It will greatly oblige me
Why then—I will defer it till tomorrow—or till tomorrow week cried she wholly vanquished I insist therefore that you do not postpone your business
She then desired the servant who was taking away the breakfast equipage to order the chaise to be put up
Edgar subdued in his turn caught her hand but instantly recollecting himself hastily let it go and throwing up the window sash abruptly exclaimed I never saw such fine weather—I hope it will not rain
He then rapidly wished them all good morning and mounted his horse
Miss Margland who sideling towards the window on pretence of examining a print had heard and seen all that had passed was almost overpowered with rage by the conviction she received that her apprehensions were not groundless She feared losing all weight both with the baronet and with Indiana if she made this acknowledgment and retreated confounded to her own room to consider what path to pursue at so dangerous a crisis wearing a scowl upon her face that was always an indication she would not be followed
Camilla also went to her chamber in a perturbation at once pleasing and painful She was sorry to have missed her excursion but she was happy to have obliged Edgar she was delighted he could take such interest in her conduct and affairs yet dreaded more than ever a private conversation with Indiana—Indiana who every moment appeared to her less and less calculated to bestow felicity upon Edgar Mandlebert
She seated herself at a window and soon through the trees perceived him galloping away Too—too amiable Edgar she cried earnestly looking after him with her hands clasped and tears starting into her eyes
Frightened at her own tenderness she rose shut the window and walked to another end of the apartment
She took up a book but she could not read Too—too amiable Edgar again escaped her She went to her pianoforte she could not play Too—too amiable Edgar broke forth in defiance of all struggle
Alarmed and ashamed even to herself she resolved to dissipate her ideas by a long walk and not to come out of the park till the first dinnerbell summoned her to dress
CHAPTER XV
Two Sides of a Question
The intention of Edgar had been to ride to Mrs Needham the lady of whom he meant to ask the information to which he had alluded but a charm too potent for resistance demanded his immediate liberation from the promise to Dr Marchmont which bound him to proceed no further till they had again conversed together
He galloped therefore to the parsonagehouse of Cleves and entering the study of the Doctor and taking him by the hand with the most animated gesture My dear and honoured friend he cried I come to you now without hesitation and free from every painful embarrassment of lurking irresolution I come to you decided and upon grounds which cannot offend you though the decision anticipates your counsel I come to you in fine my dear Doctor my good and kind friend to confess that yesterday you saw right with regard to the situation of my mind and that today I have only your felicitations to beg upon my confirmed my irrevocable choice
Dr Marchmont embraced him May you then he cried be as happy my dear young friend as you deserve I can wish you nothing higher
Last night continued Edgar I felt all doubt die away captivating as I have ever thought her so soft so gentle so touchingly sweet as last night I had never yet beheld her you witnessed it my dear Doctor you saw her with the baby in her arms how beautiful how endearing a sight
The Doctor looked assentingly but did not speak
Yet even last night was short of the feelings she excited this morning My dear friend she was upon the point of making an excursion from which she had promised herself peculiar pleasure and to see a lady for whom she had conceived the warmest admiration—I begged her to postpone—perhaps relinquish entirely the visit—she had obtained leave from Sir Hugh—the carriage was at the door—would you could you believe such sweetness with such vivacity she complied with my request and complied with a grace that has rivetted her—I own it—that has rivetted her to my soul
Doctor Marchmont smiled but rather pensively than rejoicingly and Edgar receiving no answer walked for some time about the room silently enjoying his own thoughts
Returning then to the Doctor My dear friend he cried I understood you wished to speak with me
Yes—but I thought you disengaged
So except mentally I am still
Does she not yet know her conquest
She does not even guess it
Dr Marchmont now rising with much energy said Hear me then my dear and most valued young friend forbear to declare yourself make no overtures to her relations raise no expectations even in her own breast and let not rumour surmise your passion to the world till her heart is better known to you
Edgar starting and amazed with great emotion exclaimed What do you mean my good Doctor do you suspect any prior engagement any fatal prepossession—
I suspect nothing I do not know her I mean not therefore the propensities alone but the worth also of her heart deception is easy and I must not see you thrown away
Let me then be her guarantee cried Edgar with firmness for I know her well I have known her from her childhood and cannot be deceived I fear nothing—except my own powers of engaging her regard I can trace to a certainty even from my boyish remarks her fair open artless and disinterested character
He then gave a recital of the nobleness of her sentiments and conduct when only nine years old contrasting the relation with the sullen and ungenerous behaviour of Indiana at the same age
Dr Marchmont listened to the account with attention and pleasure but not with an air of that full conviction which Edgar expected All this he said is highly prophetic of good and confirms me in the opinion I expressed last night that every possible happiness promises to be yours
Yet still said Edgar a little chagrined there seems some drawback to your entire approbation
To your choice I have none
You perplex me Doctor I know not to what you object what you would intimate nor what propose
All I have to suggest may be comprised in two points First That you will refuse confirmation even to your own intentions till you have positively ascertained her actual possession of those virtues with which she appears to be endowed and secondly That if you find her gifted with them all you will not solicit her acceptance till you are satisfied of her affection
My dear Doctor cried Edgar half laughing from what an alarm of wild conjecture has your explanation relieved me Hear me however in return and I think I can satisfy you that even upon your own conditions not an obstacle stands in the way of my speaking to Mr Tyrold this very evening
With regard to your first article her virtues I have told you the dawning superiority of her most juvenile ideas of right and though I have latterly lost sight of her by travelling during our vacations I know her to have always been under the superintendence of one of the first of women and for these last three weeks which I have spent under the same roof with her I have observed her to be all that is amiable sweet natural and generous What then on this point remains Nothing I am irrefragably convinced of her worth
With respect to your second condition I own you a little embarrass me yet how may I inquire into the state of her affections without acknowledging her mistress of mine
Hold hold interrupted the Doctor you proceed too rapidly The first article is all unsettled while you are flying to the last
It is true and I again repeat it every promise is in your favour but do not mistake promise for performance This young lady appears to be all excellence for an acquaintance for a friend I doubt not you have already seen enough to establish her in your good opinion but since it is only within a few hours you have taken the resolution which is to empower her to colour the rest of your life you must study her from this moment with new eyes new ears and new thoughts Whatever she does you must ask yourself this question Should I like such behaviour in my wife Whatever she says you must make yourself the same demand Nothing must escape you you must view as if you had never seen her before the interrogatory Were she mine must be present at every look every word every motion you must forget her wholly as Camilla Tyrold you must think of her only as Camilla Mandlebert even justice is insufficient during this period of probation and instead of inquiring Is this right in her you must simply ask Would it be pleasing to me
You are apprehensive then of some dissimilitude of character prejudicial to our future happiness
Not of character you have been very peculiarly situated for obviating all risk upon that first and most important particular I have no doubt of her general worthiness but though esteem hangs wholly upon character happiness always links itself with disposition
You gratify me Doctor by naming disposition for I can give you the most unequivocal assurance of her sweetness her innocence her benevolence joined to a spirit of neverdying vivacity—an animation of neverceasing good humour
I know you my dear Mandlebert to be by nature penetrating and minute in your observations which in your general commerce with the world will protect both your understanding and your affections from the usual snares of youth But here—to be even scrupulous is not enough to avoid all danger of repentance you must become positively distrustful
Never Doctor never I would sooner renounce every prospect of felicity than act a part so ungenerous where I am conscious of such desert Upon this article therefore we have done I am already and fully convinced of her excellence But with respect to your second difficulty that I will not seek her acceptance till satisfied of her regard—there—indeed you start an idea that comes home to my soul in its very inmost recesses O Doctor—could I hope—however distantly—durst I hope—the independent unsolicited involuntary possession of that most ingenuous most inartificial of human hearts—
And why not why while so liberally you do justice to another should you not learn to appreciate yourself
A look of elation delight and happiness conveyed to Dr Marchmont his pupils grateful sense of this question
I do not fear making you vain he continued I know your understanding to be too solid and your temperament too philosophic to endanger your running into the common futility of priding yourself upon the gifts of nature, any more than upon those of fortune tis in their uses only you can claim any applause I will not therefore scruple to assert you can hardly any where propose yourself with much danger of being rejected You are amiable and accomplished abounding in wealth high in character in person and appearance unexceptionable you can have no doubt of the joyful approbation of her friends nor can you entertain a reasonable fear of her concurrence yet with all this pardon me when I plainly explicitly add it is very possible you may be utterly indifferent to her
If so at least said Edgar in a tone and with a countenance whence all elation was flown she will leave me master of myself she is too noble to suffer any sordid motives to unite us
Do not depend upon that the influence of friends the prevalence of example the early notion which every female imbibes that a good establishment must be her first object in life—these are motives of marriage commonly sufficient for the whole sex
Her choice indeed said Edgar thoughtfully would not perhaps be wholly uninfluenced—I pretend not to doubt that the voice of her friends would be all in my favour
Yes interrupted Dr Marchmont and be she noble as she may Beech Park will be also in your favour your mansion your equipage your domestics even your table will be in your favour—
Doctor interrupted Edgar in his turn I know you think ill of women—
Do not let that idea weaken what I urge I have not had reason to think well of them yet I believe there are individuals who merit every regard your Camilla may be one of them Take however this warning from my experience whatever is her appearance of worth try and prove its foundation ere you conclude it invulnerable and whatever are your pretensions to her hand do not necessarily connect them with your chances for her heart
Mandlebert filled now with a distrust of himself and of his powers which he was incapable of harbouring of Camilla and her magnanimity felt struck to the soul with the apprehension of failing to gain her affection and wounded in every point both of honour and delicacy from the bare suggestion of owing his wife to his situation in the world He found no longer any difficulty in promising not to act with precipitance his confidence was gone his elevation of sentiment was depressed a general mist clouded his prospects and a suspensive discomfort inquieted his mind He shook Dr Marchmont by the hand and assuring him he would weigh well all he had said and take no measure till he had again consulted with him remounted his horse and slowly walked it back to Cleves
END OF THE FIRST VOLUME
VOLUME II
BOOK III
CHAPTER I
A few kind Offices
With deep concern Edgar revolved in his mind the suggestions of Dr Marchmont and meditation far from diminishing added importance to the arguments of his friend To obtain the hand of an object he so highly admired though but lately his sole wish appeared now an uncertain blessing a suspicious good since the possession of her heart was no longer to be considered as its inseparable appendage His very security of the approbation of Mr and Mrs Tyrold became a source of solicitude and secret from them from her and from all he determined to guard his views till he could find some opportunity of investigating her own unbiased sentiments
Such were his ruminations when on reentering the Park he perceived her wandering alone amidst the trees Her figure looked so interesting her air so serious her solitude so attractive that every maxim of tardy prudence every caution of timid foresight would instantly have given way to the quick feelings of generous impulse had he not been restrained by his promise to Dr Marchmont He dismounted and giving his horse to his groom retraced her footsteps
Camilla almost without her own knowledge had strolled towards the gate whence she concluded Edgar to have ridden from the Park and almost without consciousness had continued sauntering in its vicinity yet she no sooner descried him than struck with a species of self-accusation for this appearance of awaiting him she crossed over to the nearest path towards the house and for the first time was aware of the approach of Edgar without hastening to meet him
He slackened his pace to quiet his spirits and restore his manner to its customary serenity before he permitted himself to overtake her Can you he then cried forgive me when you hear I have been fulfilling my own appointment and have postponed my promised investigation
Rather say she gently answered could I have forgiven you if you had shewn me you thought my impatience too ungovernable for any delay
To find her thus willing to oblige him was a new delight and he expressed his acknowledgments in terms the most flattering
An unusual seriousness made her hear him almost without reply yet peace and harmony revisited her mind and in listening to his valued praise she forgot her late alarm at her own sensations and without extending a thought beyond the present instant again felt tranquil and happy while to Edgar she appeared so completely all that was adorable that he could only remember to repent his engagement with Dr Marchmont
Her secret opinion that he was dissatisfied with his lot gave a softness to her accents that enchanted him while the high esteem for his character which mingled with her pity joined to a lowered sense of her own from a newborn terror lest that pity were too tender spread a charm wholly new over her native fire and vivacity
In a few minutes they were overtaken by Mandleberts gardener who was bringing from Beech Park a basket of flowers for his master They were selected from curious hothouse plants and Camilla stopt to admire their beauty and fragrance
Edgar presented her the basket whence she simply took a sprig of myrtle and geranium conceiving the present to be designed for Indiana If you are fond of geraniums said he there is an almost endless variety in my greenhouse and I will bring you tomorrow some specimens
She thanked him and while he gave orders to the gardener Miss Margland and Indiana advanced from the house
Miss Margland had seen them from her window where in vain deliberation she had been considering what step to take But upon beholding them together she thought deliberation and patience were hopeless and determined, by a decisive stroke to break in its bud the connection she supposed forming or throw upon Camilla all censure if she failed as the sole means she could devise to exculpate her own sagacity from impeachment She called upon Indiana therefore to accompany her into the Park exclaiming in an angry tone Miss Lynmere I will shew you the true cause why Mr Mandlebert does not declare himself—your cousin Miss Camilla is wheedling him away from you
Indiana whose belief in almost whatever was said was undisturbed by any species of reflection felt filled with resentment and a sense of injury and readily following said—I was sure there was something more in it than I saw because Mr Melmond behaved so differently But I dont take it very kind of my cousin I can tell her
They then hurried into the Park but as they came without any plan they were no sooner within a few yards of the meeting than they stopt short at a loss what to say or do
Edgar vexed at their interruption continued talking to the gardener to avoid joining them but seeing Camilla who less than ever wished for their communications walk instantly another way he thought it would be improper to pursue her and only bowing to Miss Margland and Indiana went into the house
This is worse than ever cried Miss Margland to stalk off without speaking or even offering you any of his flowers which I dare say are only to be put into the parlour flowerpots for the whole house
Im sure Im very glad of it said Indiana for I hate flowers but Im sure Mr Melmond would not have done so nor Colonel Andover nor Mr Macdersey more than all
No nor any body else my dear that had common sense and their eyes open nor Mr Mandlebert neither if it were not for Miss Camilla However well let her know we see what she is about and let Sir Hugh know too for as to the colonels and the ensigns and that young Oxford student they wont at all do officers are commonly worth nothing and scholars you may take my word for it my dear are the dullest men in the world Besides one would not give such a fine fortune as Mr Mandleberts without making a little struggle for it You dont know how many pretty things you may do with it So let us shew her we dont want for spirit and speak to her at once
These words reviving in the mind of Indiana her wedding clothes the train of servants and the new equipage gave fresh pique to her provocation but finding some difficulty to overtake the fleet Camilla whose pace kept measure with her wish to avoid them she called after her to desire she would not walk so fast
Camilla reluctantly loitered but without stopping or turning to meet them that she might still regale herself with the perfume of the geranium presented her by Edgar
Youre in great haste maam said Miss Margland which I own I did not observe to be the case just now
Camilla in much surprize asked what she meant
My meaning is pretty plain I believe to any body that chose to understand it However though Miss Lynmere scorns to be her own champion I cannot as a friend be quite so passive nor help hinting to you how little you would like such a proceeding to yourself from any other person
What proceeding cried Camilla blushing from a dawning comprehension of the subject though resenting the manner of the complaint
Nay only ask yourself maam only ask yourself Miss Camilla how you should like to be so supplanted if such an establishment were forming for yourself and every thing were fixt and every body else refused and nobody to hinder its all taking place but a near relation of your own who ought to be the first to help it forward I should like to know I say Miss Camilla how you would feel if it were your own case
Astonished and indignant at so sudden and violent an assault Camilla stood suspended whether to deign any vindication or to walk silently away yet its implications involuntarily filled her with a thousand other and less offending emotions than those of anger and a general confusion crimsoned her cheeks
You cannot but be sensible maam resumed Miss Margland for sense is not what you want that you have seduced Mr Mandlebert from your cousin you cannot but see he takes hardly the smallest notice of her from the pains you are at to make him admire nobody but yourself
The spirit of Camilla now rose high to her aid at a charge thus impertinent and unjust Miss Margland she cried you shock and amaze me I am at a loss for any motive to so cruel an accusation but you I hope at least my dear Indiana are convinced how much it injures me She would then have taken the hand of Indiana but disdainfully drawing it back I shant break my heart about it I assure you she cried you are vastly welcome to him for me I hope I am not quite so odious but I may find other people in the world besides Mr Mandlebert
O as to that said Miss Margland I am sure you have only to look in order to chuse but since this affair has been settled by your uncle I cant say I think it very grateful in any person to try to overset his particular wishes Poor old gentleman Im sure I pity him It will go hard enough with him when he comes to hear it Such a requital—and from his own niece
This was an attack the most offensive that Camilla could receive nothing could so nearly touch her as an idea of ingratitude to her uncle and resting upon that the whole tide of those feelings which were in fact divided and subdivided into many crossing channels she broke forth with great eagerness into exclaiming Miss Margland this is quite barbarous You know and you Indiana cannot but know I would not give my uncle the smallest pain to be mistress of a thousand universes
Why then said Miss Margland should you break up a scheme which he has so much set his heart upon Why are you always winning over Mr Mandlebert to yourself by all that flattery Why are you always consulting him always obliging him always of his opinion always ready to take his advice
Miss Margland replied Camilla with the extremest agitation this is so unexpected—so undeserved an interpretation—my consultation or my acquiescence have been merely from respect no other thought no other motive—Good God what is it you imagine—what guilt would you impute to me
O dear cried Indiana pray dont suppose it signifies If you like to make compliments in that manner to gentlemen pray do it I hope I shall always hold myself above it I think its their place to make compliments to me
A resentful answer was rising to the tongue of Camilla when she perceived her two little sprigs which in her recent disorder she had dropt were demolishing under the feet of Indiana who with apparent unmeaningness but internal suspicion of their giver had trampled upon them both Hastily stooping she picked them up and with evident vexation was blowing from them the dust and dirt when Indiana scoffingly said I wonder where you got that geranium
I dont wonder at all said Miss Margland for Sir Hugh has none of that species so one may easily guess
Camilla felt herself blush and letting the flowers fall turned to Indiana and said Cousin if on my account it is possible you can suffer the smallest uneasiness tell me but what I shall do—you shall dictate to me—you shall command me
Indiana disclaimed all interest in her behaviour but Miss Margland cried What you can do maam is this and nothing can be easier nor fairer leave off paying all that court to Mr Mandlebert of asking his advice and follow your own way whether he likes it or not and go to see Mrs Arlbery and Mrs every body else when you have a mind without waiting for his permission or troubling yourself about what he thinks of it
Camilla now trembled in every joint and with difficulty restrained from tears while timidly she said—And do you my dear Indiana demand of me this conduct and will it at least satisfy you
Me O dear no I demand nothing I assure you The whole matter is quite indifferent to me and you may ask his leave for every thing in the world if you chuse it There are people enough ready to take my part I hope if you set him against me ever so much
Indeed indeed Indiana said Camilla overpowered with conflicting sensations this is using me very unkindly And without waiting to hear another word she hurried into the house and flew to hide herself in her own room
This was the first bitter moment she had ever known Peace gay though uniform had been the constant inmate of her breast enjoyed without thought possessed without struggle not the subdued gift of accommodating philosophy but the inborn and genial produce of youthful felicitys best aliment the energy of its own animal spirits
She had indeed for some time past thought Edgar of too refined and too susceptible a character for the unthinking and undistinguishing Indiana and for the last day or two her regret at his fate had strengthened itself into an averseness of his supposed destination that made the idea of it painful and the subject repugnant to her but she had never till this very morning distrusted the innoxiousness either of her pity or her regard and startled at the first surmise of danger she had wished to fly even from herself rather than venture to investigate feelings so unwelcome yet still and invariably she had concluded Edgar the future husband of Indiana
To hear there were any doubts of the intended marriage filled her with emotions indefinable to hear herself named as the cause of those doubts was alarming both to her integrity and her delicacy She felt the extremest anger at the unprovoked and unwarrantable harshness of Miss Margland and a resentment nearly equal at the determined petulance and unjustifiable aspersions of Indiana
Satisfied of the innocence of her intentions she knew not what alteration she could make in her behaviour and after various plans concluded that to make none would best manifest her freedom from selfreproach At the summons therefore to dinner she was the first to appear eager to shew herself unmoved by the injustice of her accusers and desirous to convince them she was fearless of examination
Yet too much discomposed to talk in her usual manner she seized upon a book till the party was seated Answering then to the call of her uncle with as easy an air as she could assume she took her accustomed place by his side and began for mere employment filling a plate from the dish that was nearest to her which she gave to the footman without any direction whither to carry or enquiry if any body chose to eat it
It was taken round the table and though refused by all she heaped up another plate with the same diligence and speed as if it had been accepted
Edgar who had been accidentally detained only now entered apologizing for being so late
Engrossed by the pride of self-defence and the indignancy of unmerited unkindness the disturbed mind of Camilla had not yet formed one separate reflexion nor even admitted a distinct idea of Edgar himself disengaged from the accusation in which he stood involved But he had now amply his turn The moment he appeared the deepest blushes covered her face and an emotion so powerful beat in her breast that the immediate impulse of her impetuous feelings was to declare herself ill and run out of the room
With this view she rose but ashamed of her plan seated herself the next moment though she had first overturned her plate and a sauceboat in the vehemence of her haste
This accident rather recovered than disconcerted her by affording an unaffected occupation in begging pardon of Sir Hugh who was the chief sufferer changing the napkins and restoring the table to order
What upon earth can be the matter with Miss Camilla I cant guess exclaimed Miss Margland though with an expression of spite that fully contradicted her difficulty of conjecture
I hope said Edgar surprized Miss Camilla is not ill
I cant say I think my cousin looks very bad said Indiana
Camilla who was rubbing a part of her gown upon which nothing had fallen affected to be too busy to hear them which Sir Hugh concluding her silent from shame entreated her not to think of his cloaths which were worth no great matter not being his best by two or three suits Her thoughts had not waited this injunction yet it was in vain she strove to behave as if nothing had happened Her spirit instigated but it would not support her her voice grew husky she stammered forgot as she went on what she designed to say when she began speaking and frequently was forced to stop short with a faint laugh at herself and with a colour every moment encreasing And the very instant the cloth was removed she rose unable to constrain herself any longer and ran up stairs to her own room
There all her efforts evaporated in tears Cruel cruel Miss Margland she cried unjust unkind Indiana how have I merited this treatment What can Edgar think of my disturbance What can I devise to keep from his knowledge the barbarous accusation which has caused it
In a few minutes she heard the step of Eugenia
Ashamed she hastily wiped her eyes and before the door could be opened was at the further end of the room looking into one of her drawers
What is it that has vexed my dearest Camilla cried her kind sister something I am sure has grieved her
I cannot guess what I have done with—I can no where find— stammered Camilla engaged in some apparent search but too much confused to name anything of which she might probably be in want
Eugenia desired to assist her but a servant came to the door to tell them that the company was going to the summerhouse whither Sir Hugh begged they would follow
Camilla besought Eugenia to join them and make her excuses but fearing Miss Margland would attribute her absconding to guilt or cowardice she bathed her eyes in cold water and overtook her sister at the stairs of the little building
In ascending them she heard Miss Margland say I dare believe nothings the matter but some whim for to be sure as to whims Miss Camilla has the most of any creature I ever saw and Miss Lynmere the least for you may imagine Mr Mandlebert I have pretty good opportunity to see all these young people in their real colours
Overset by this malignancy she was again flying to the refuge of her own room and the relief of tears when the conviction of such positive illwill in Miss Margland for which she could assign no reason but her unjust and exclusive partiality to Indiana checked her precipitancy She feared she would construe to still another whim her nonappearance and resuming a little fresh strength from fresh resentment turned back but the various keen sensations she experienced as she entered the summerhouse rendered this little action the most severe stretch of fortitude her short and happy life had yet called upon her to make
Sir Hugh addressed her some kind enquiries which she hastily answered while she pretended to be busy in preparing to wind some sewing silk upon cards
She could have chosen no employment less adapted to display the cool indifference she wished to manifest to Miss Margland and Indiana She pulled the silk the wrong way twisted twirled and entangled it continually and while she talked volubly of what she was about as if it were the sole subject of her thoughts her shaking hands shewed her whole frame disordered and her high colour betrayed her strong internal emotion
Edgar looked at her with surprize and concern What had dropt from Miss Margland of her whims he had heard with disdain for without suspecting her of malice to Camilla he concluded her warped by her prejudice in favour of Indiana Dr Marchmont however had bid him judge by proof not appearance and he resolved therefore to investigate the cause of this disquiet before he acted upon his belief in its blamelessness
Having completely spoilt one skein she threw it aside and saying the weathers so fine I cannot bear to stay within—left her silk her winders and her workbag on the first chair and skipt down the stairs
Sir Hugh declined walking but would let nobody remain with him Edgar as if studying the clouds glided down first Camilla perceiving him bent her head and began gathering some flowers He stood by her a moment in silence and then said Tomorrow morning without fail I will wait upon Mrs Needham
Pray take your own time I am not in any haste
You are very good and I am more obliged to you than I can express for suffering my officious interference with such patience
A rustling of silk made Camilla now look up and she perceived Miss Margland leaning half out of the window of the summerhouse from earnestness to catch what she said
Angry thus to be watched and persuaded that both innocence and dignity called upon her to make no change in her open consideration for Edgar she answered in a voice that strove to be more audible but that irresistibly trembled I beg you will impartially consult your own judgment and decide as you think right
Edgar now became as little composed as herself the power with which she invested him possessed a charm to dissolve every hesitating doubt and when upon her raising her head he perceived the redness of her eyes and found that the perturbation which had perplexed him was mingled with some affliction the most tender anxiety filled his mind and though somewhat checked by the vicinity of Miss Margland his voice expressed the warmest solicitude as he said I know not how to thank you for this sweetness but I fear something disturbs you—I fear you are not well or are not happy
Camilla again bent over the flowers but it was not to scent their fragrance she sought only a hiding place for her eyes which were gushing with tears and though she wished to fly a thousand miles off she had not courage to take a single step nor force to trust her voice with the shortest reply
You will not speak yet you do not deny that you have some uneasiness—Could I give it but the smallest relief how fortunate I should think myself—And is it quite impossible—Do you forbid me to ask what it is—forbid me the indulgence even to suggest——
Ask nothing suggest nothing and think of it no more interrupted Camilla if you would not make me quite——
She stopt suddenly not to utter the word unhappy of which she felt the improper strength at the moment it was quivering on her lips and leaving her sentence unfinished abruptly walked away
Edgar could not presume to follow yet felt her conquest irresistible Her selfdenial with regard to Mrs Arlbery won his highest approbation her compliance with his wishes convinced him of her esteem and her distress so new and so unaccountable centered every wish of his heart in a desire to solace and to revive her
To obtain this privilege hastened at once and determined his measures he excused himself therefore from walking and went instantly to his chamber to reclaim by a hasty letter to Dr Marchmont his procrastinating promise
CHAPTER II
A Pro and a Con
With a pen flowing quick from feelings of the most generous warmth Edgar wrote the following letter
To Dr Marchmont
Accuse me not of precipitance my dear Doctor nor believe me capable of forgetting the wisdom of your suggestions nor of lightly weighing those evils with which your zeal has encompassed me though I write at this instant to confess a total contrariety of sentiment to call back every promise of delay and to make an unqualified avowal that the period of caution is past Camilla is not happy—something I know not what has disturbed the gay serenity of her bosom she has forbid me to enquire the cause—one way only remains to give me a claim to her confidence—O Doctor wonder not if cold tardy suspicious—I had nearly said unfeeling caution shrinks at such a moment from the rising influence of warmer sympathy which bids me sooth her in distress shield her from danger strengthen all her virtues and participate in their emanations
You will not do me the injustice to think me either impelled or blinded by external enchantments you know me to have withstood their yet fuller blaze in her cousin O no were she despoiled of all personal attraction by the same ravaging distemper that has been so fierce with her poor sister were a similar cruel accident to rob her form of all symmetry she would yet be more fascinating to my soul by one single look one single word one sweet beaming smile diffusing all the gaiety it displays than all of beauty all of elegance all of rank all of wealth the whole kingdom in some wonderful aggregate could oppose to her
Her face her form however penetrating in loveliness aid but do not constitute her charms no tis the quick intelligence of soul that mounts to her eyes tis the spirit checked by sweetness the sweetness animated by spirit the nature so nobly above all artifice all study—O Doctor restore to me immediately every vestige every trait of any promise any acquiescence any idea the most distant that can be construed into a compliance with one moments requisition of delay
Edgar Mandlebert
Cleves Park Friday Evening
Camilla meanwhile shut up in her room wept almost without cessation from a sense of general unhappiness though fixed to no point and from a disturbance of mind a confusion of ideas and of feelings that rendered her incapable of reflection She was again followed by Eugenia and could no longer refuse to her tender anxiety a short detail of the attack which occasioned her disorder happy at least in reciting it that by unfolding the cause there no longer remained any necessity to repress the effects of her affliction
To her great surprise however Eugenia only said And is this all my dear Camilla
All exclaimed Camilla
Yes is it all—I was afraid some great misfortune had happened
And what could happen more painful more shocking more cruel
A thousand things for this is nothing but a mere mistake and you should not make yourself unhappy about it because you are not to blame
Is it then nothing to be accused of designs and intentions so criminal
If the accusation were just it might indeed make you wretched but it is Miss Margland only who has any reason to be afflicted for it is she alone who has been in the wrong
Struck with this plain but uncontrovertible truth Camilla wiped her eyes and strove to recover some composure but finding her tears still force their way It is not she cried with some hesitation it is not the aspersions of Miss Margland alone that give me so much vexation—the unkindness of Indiana—
Indeed she is highly reprehensible and so I will tell her—but still if she has any fears however illfounded of losing Edgar you cannot but pardon—you must even pity her
Struck again and still more forcibly by this second truth Camilla ashamed of her grief made a stronger and more serious effort to repress it and receiving soon afterwards a summons from her uncle her spirit rose once more to the relief of her dejection upon seeing him seated between Miss Margland and Indiana and discerning that they had been making some successful complaint by the air of triumph with which they waited her approach
My dear Camilla he cried with a look of much disturbance heres a sad ado I find though I dont mean to blame you nor young Mr Mandlebert neither taste being a fault one cant avoid not but what a persons changing their mind is what I cant commend in any one which I shall certainly let him know not doubting to bring him round by means of his own sense only my dear in the meanwhile I must beg you not to stand in your cousins way
Indeed my dear uncle I do not merit this imputation I am not capable of such treachery indignantly answered Camilla
Treachery Lord help us treachery cried Sir Hugh fondly embracing her dont I know you are as innocent as the baby unborn and more innocent too from the advantage of having more sense to guide you by treachery my dear Camilla why I think theres nobody so good in the wide world—by which I mean no reflections never thinking it right to make any
Indiana sullenly pouting spoke not a word but Miss Margland with a tone of plausibility that was some covert to its malice said Why then all may be well and the young ladies as good friends as ever and Mr Mandlebert return to the conduct of a gentleman only just by Miss Camillas doing as she would be done by for nothing that all of us can say will have any effect if she does not discourage him from dangling about after her in the manner he does now speaking to nobody else and always asking her opinion about every trifle which is certainly doing no great justice to Miss Lynmere
Indiana with a toss of the head protested his notice was the last thing she desired
My dear Indiana said Sir Hugh dont mind all that outward shew Mr Mandlebert is a very good boy and as to your cousin Camilla I am sure I need not put you in mind how much she is the same but I really think whatevers the reason the young youths of nowadays grow backwarder and backwarder Though I cant say but what in my time it was just the same witness myself which is what I have been sorry for often enough though I have left off repenting it now because its of no use age being a thing theres no getting ahead of
Well then all that remains is this said Miss Margland let Miss Camilla keep out of Mr Mandleberts way and let her order the carriage and go to Mrs Arlberys tomorrow and take no notice of his likings and dislikings and Ill be bound for it he will soon think no more of her and then of course he will give the proper attention to Miss Lynmere
O if thats all cried Sir Hugh my dear Camilla I am sure will do it and as much again too to make her cousin easy And so now I hope all is settled and my two good girls will kiss one another, and be friends which I am sure I am myself with all my heart
Camilla hung her head in speechless perturbation at a task which appeared to her equally hard and unjust but while fear and shame kept her silent Sir Hugh drew her to Indiana and a cold yet unavoidable salute gave a species of tacit consent to a plan which she did not dare oppose from the very strength of the desire that urged her opposition
They then separated Sir Hugh delighted Miss Margland triumphant Indiana half satisfied half affronted and Camilla with a mind so crowded a heart so full she scarcely breathed Sensations the most contrary of pain pleasure hope and terror at once assailed her Edgar of whom so long she had only thought as of the destined husband of Indiana she now heard named with suspicions of another regard to which she did not dare give full extension yet of which the most distant surmise made her consider herself for a moment as the happiest of human beings though she held herself the next as the most culpable for even wishing it
She found Eugenia still in her room who perceiving her increased emotion tenderly enquired if there were any new cause
Alas yes my dearest Eugenia they have been exacting from me the most cruel of sacrifices They order me to fly from Edgar Mandlebert—to resist his advice—to take the very measures I have promised to forbear—to disoblige to slight to behave to him even offensively my uncle himself lenient kind indulgent as he is my uncle himself has been prevailed with to inflict upon me this terrible injunction
My uncle answered Eugenia is incapable of giving pain to any body and least of all to you whom he loves with such fondness he has not therefore comprehended the affair he only considers in general that to please or to displease Edgar Mandlebert can be a matter of no moment to you when compared with its importance to Indiana
It is a thousand and a thousand a million and a million times more important to me than it can ever be to her exclaimed the ardent Camilla for she values not his kindness she knows not his worth she is insensible to his virtues
You judge too hastily my dear Camilla she has not indeed your warmth of heart but if she did not wish the union to take place why would she shew all this disquiet in the apprehension of its breach
Camilla surprised into recollection endeavoured to become calmer
You indeed continued the temperate Eugenia if so situated would not so have behaved you would not have been so unjust and you could not have been so weak but still if you had received however causelessly any alarm for the affection of the man you meant to marry and that man were as amiable as Edgar you would have been equally disturbed
Camilla convinced yet shocked felt the flutter of her heart give a thousand hues to her face and walking to the window leaned far out to gasp for breath
Weigh the request more coolly and you cannot refuse a short compliance I am sure you would not make Indiana unhappy
O no not for the world cried she struggling to seem more reasonable than she felt
Yet how can she be otherwise if she imagines you have more of the notice and esteem of Edgar than herself
Camilla now had not a word to say the subject dropt she took up a book and by earnest internal remonstrances commanded herself to appear at teatime with tolerable serenity
The evening was passed in spiritless conversation or in listening to the pianoforte upon which Indiana with the utmost difficulty played some very easy lessons
At night the following answer arrived from Dr Marchmont
To Edgar Mandlebert Esq
Parsonage House Cleves
Friday Night
My Dear Friend
I must be thankful in a moment of such enthusiasm that you can pay the attention of even recollecting those evils with which my zeal only has you think encompassed you I cannot insist upon the practice of caution which you deem unfounded but as you wait my answer I will once more open upon my sentiments and communicate my wishes It is now only I can speak them the instant you have informed the young lady of your own silences them for ever Your honour and her happiness become then entangled in each other and I know not which I would least willingly assail What in all men is base would to you I believe be impossible—to trifle with such favour as may be the growth of your own undisguised partiality
Your present vehemence to ascertain the permanent possession of one you conceive formed for your felicity obscures to your now absorbed faculties the thousand nameless but tenacious delicacies annexed by your species of character to your powers of enjoyment In two words then let me tell you what in a short time you will daily tell yourself you cannot be happy if not exclusively loved for you cannot excite you cannot bestow happiness
By exclusively I do not mean to the exclusion of other connections and regard far from it those who covet in a bride the oblivion of all former friendships all early affections weaken the finest ties of humanity and dissolve the first compact of unregistered but genuine integrity The husband who would rather rationally than with romance be loved himself should seek to cherish not obliterate the kind feelings of nature in its first expansions These where properly bestowed are the guarantees to that constant and respectable tenderness which a narrow and selfish jealousy rarely fails to convert into distaste and disgust
The partiality which I mean you to ascertain injures not these prior claims I mean but a partiality exclusive of your situation in life and of all declaration of your passion a partiality in fine that is appropriate to yourself not to the rank in the world with which you may tempt her ambition nor to the blandishments of flattery which only soften the heart by intoxicating the understanding.
Observe therefore if your general character and usual conduct strike her mind if her esteem is yours without the attraction of assiduity and adulation if your natural disposition and manners make your society grateful to her and your approbation desirable
It is thus alone you can secure your own contentment for it is thus alone your reflecting mind can snatch from the time to come the dangerous surmises of a dubious retrospection
Remember you can always advance you can never in honour go back and believe me when I tell you that the mere simple avowal of preference which only ultimately binds the man is frequently what first captivates the woman If her mind is not previously occupied it operates with such seductive sway it so soothes so flatters so bewitches her selfcomplacency that while she listens she imperceptibly fancies she participates in sentiments which but the minute before occurred not even to her imagination and while her hand is the recompence of her own eulogy she is not herself aware if she has bestowed it where her esteem and regard unbiassed by the eloquence of acknowledged admiration would have wished it sought or if it has simply been the boon of her own gratified vanity
I now no longer urge your acquiescence my dear friend I merely entreat you twice to peruse what I have written and then leave you to act by the result of such perusal
I remain
Your truly faithful and obliged
Gabriel Marchmont
Edgar ran through this letter with an impatience wholly foreign to his general character Why cried he will he thus obtrude upon me these fastidious doubts and causeless difficulties I begged but the restitution of my promise and he gives it me in words that nearly annihilate my power of using it
Disappointed and displeased he hastily put it into his pocketbook resolving to seek Camilla and commit the consequences of an interview to the impulses it might awaken
He was half way down stairs when the sentence finishing with you cannot excite you cannot bestow happiness confusedly recurred to him If in that thought he I fail I am a stranger to it myself and a stranger for ever and returning to his room he reopened the letter to look for the passage
The sentence lost nothing by being read a second time he paused upon it dejectedly and presently reread the whole epistle
He is not quite wrong cried he pensively there is nothing very unreasonable in what he urges true indeed it is that I can never be happy myself if her happiness is not entwined around my own
The first blight thus borne to that ardent glee with which the imagination rewards its own elevated speculations he yet a third time read the letter
He is right he then cried I will investigate her sentiments and know what are my chances for her regard what I owe to real approbation and what merely to intimacy of situation I will postpone all explanation till my visit here expires and devote the probationary interval to an examination which shall obviate all danger of either deceiving my own reason or of beguiling her inconsiderate acceptance
This settled he rejoiced in a mastery over his eagerness which he considered as complete since it would defer for no less than a week the declaration of his passion
CHAPTER III
An Authors Notion of Travelling
The next morning Camilla sad and unwilling to appear was the last who entered the breakfastparlour Edgar instantly discerned the continued unhappiness which an assumed smile concealed from the unsuspicious Sir Hugh and the week of delay before him seemed an outrage to all his wishes
While she was drinking her first cup of tea a servant came in and told her the carriage was ready
She coloured but nobody spoke and the servant retired Edgar was going to ask the design for the morning when Miss Margland said—Miss Camilla as the horses have got to go and return you had better not keep them waiting
Colouring still more deeply she was going to disclaim having ordered them though well aware for what purpose they were come when Sir Hugh said—I think my dear you had best take Eugenia with you which may serve you as a companion to talk to in case you want to say anything by the way which I take for granted young people not much liking to hold their tongues for a long while together which is very natural having so little to think of
Miss Eugenia then cried Miss Margland before Camilla could reply run for your cloak as soon as you have finished your breakfast
Eugenia hoping to aid her sister in performing a task which she considered as a peaceoffering to Indiana said she had already done
Camilla now lost all courage for resistance but feeling her chagrin almost intolerable quitted the room with her tea undrunk and without making known if she should return or not
Eugenia followed and Edgar much amazed said he had forgotten to order his horse for his mornings ride and hastily made off determined to be ready to hand the sisters to the carriage and learn whither it was to drive
Camilla who in flying to her room thought of nothing less than preparing for an excursion which she now detested was again surprised in tears by Eugenia
What my dearest Camilla she cried can thus continually affect you you cannot be so unhappy without some cause—why will you not trust your Eugenia
I cannot talk she answered ashamed to repeat reasons which she knew Eugenia held to be inadequate to her concern—If there is no resource against this persecution—if I must render myself hateful to give them satisfaction let us at least be gone immediately and let me be spared seeing the person I so ungratefully offend
She then hurried down stairs but finding Edgar in waiting still more quickly hurried back and in an agony for which she attempted not to account cast herself into a chair and told Eugenia that if Miss Margland did not contrive to call Edgar away the universe could not prevail with her to pass him in such defiance
My dear Camilla said Eugenia surprized yet compassionately if this visit is become so painful to you relinquish it at once
Ah no for that cruel Miss Margland will then accuse me of staying away only to follow the counsel of Edgar
She stopt for the countenance of Eugenia said—And is that not your motive A sudden consciousness took place of her distress she hid her face in the hope of concealing her emotion and with as calm a voice as she could attain said the moment they could pass unobserved she would set off
Eugenia went downstairs
Alas alas she then cried into what misery has this barbarous Miss Margland thrown me Eugenia herself seems now to suspect something wrong and so I suppose will my uncle and I can only convince them of my innocence by acting towards Edgar as a monster—Ah I would sooner a thousand times let them all think me guilty
Eugenia had met Miss Margland in the hall who impatient for their departure passed her and ascended the stairs
At the sound of her footsteps the horror of her reproaches and insinuations conquered every other feeling and Camilla starting up rushed forward and saying Good morning ran off
Edgar was still at the door and came forward to offer her his hand Pray take care of Eugenia she cried abruptly passing him and darting unaided into the chaise Edgar astonished obeyed and gave his more welcome assistance to Eugenia but when both were seated said—Where shall I tell the postillion to drive
Camilla who was pulling one of the green blinds up and again letting it down twenty times in a minute affected not to hear him but Eugenia answered to the Grove to Mrs Arlberys
The postillion had already received his orders from Miss Margland and drove off leaving Edgar mute with surprise disappointment and mortification
Miss Margland was just behind him and conceived this the fortunate instant for eradicating from his mind every favourable prepossession for Camilla assuming therefore an air of concern she said—So you have found Miss Camilla out in spite of all her precautions she would fain not have had you know her frolic
Not know it has there then been any plan did Miss Camilla intend——
O she intends nothing in the world for two minutes together only she did not like you should find out her fickleness You know I told you before she was all whim and so you will find You may always take my opinion be assured Miss Lynmere is the only one among them that is always the same always good always amiable
And is not Miss—— he was going to say Camilla but checking himself finished with—Miss Eugenia at least always equal always consistent
Why she is better than Miss Camilla but not one among them has any steadiness or real sweetness but Miss Lynmere As to Miss Camilla if she has not her own way theres no enduring her she frets and is so cross When you put her off in that friendly manner from gadding after a new acquaintance so improper for her you set her into such an ill humour that she has done nothing but cry as you may have seen by her eyes and worry herself and all of us round except you ever since but she was afraid of you for fear you should take her to task which she hates of all things
Half incredulous yet half shocked Edgar turned from this harangue in silent disgust He knew the splenetic nature of Miss Margland and trusted she might be wrong but he knew too her opportunities for observation and dreaded lest she might be right Camilla had been certainly low spirited weeping and restless was it possible it could be for so slight so unmeaning a cause His wish was to follow her on horseback but this unauthorized might betray too much anxiety he tried not to think of what had been said by Dr Marchmont while this cloud hung over her disposition and sincerity for whatever might be the malignity of Miss Margland the breach of a promise of which the voluntary sweetness had so lately proved his final captivation could not be doubted and called aloud for explanation
He mounted however his horse to make his promised enquiries of Mrs Needham for though the time was already past for impeding the acquaintance from taking place its progress might yet be stopt should it be found incompatible with propriety
The young ladies had scarce left the Park when Sir Hugh recollecting a promise he had made to Mr and Mrs Tyrold of never suffering Eugenia to go abroad unattended by some gentleman while Bellamy remained in the country sent hastily to beg that Edgar would follow the carriage
Edgar was out of sight and there was no chance of overtaking him
Lackaday said Sir Hugh those young folks can never walk a horse but full gallop He then resolved to ask Dr Orkborne to go after his pupil and ride by the side of the chaise He ordered a horse to be saddled and to lose no time by messages the tardiness of which he had already experienced with this gentleman he went himself to his apartment and after several vain rappings at his door entered the room unbid saying—Good Dr Orkborne unless you are dead which God forbid I think its something uncomfortable that you cant speak to a person waiting at your door not that I pretend to doubt but you may have your proper reasons being what I cant judge
He then begged he would get booted and spurred instantly and follow his two nieces to Mrs Arlberys in order to take care of Eugenia adding though Im afraid Doctor by your look you dont much listen to me which I am sorry for my not being able to speak like Horace and Virgil being no fault of mine but of my poor capacity which no man can be said to be answerable for
He then again entreated him to set off
Only a moment sir I only beg youll accord me one moment cried the Doctor with a fretful sigh while screening his eyes with his left hand he endeavoured hastily to make a memorandum of his ideas before he forced them to any other subject
Really Dr Orkborne said Sir Hugh somewhat displeased I must needs remark for a friend I think this rather slow however I cant say I am much disappointed now that I did not turn out a scholar myself for I see plain enough you learned men think nothing of any consequence but Homer and such which however I dont mean to take ill knowing it was like enough to have been my own case
He then left the room intending to send a man and horse after the chaise to desire his two nieces to return immediately
Dr Orkborne who though copiously stored with the works of the ancients had a sluggish understanding and no imagination was entirely overset by this intrusion The chain of his observations was utterly broken he strove vainly to rescue from oblivion the slow ripening fruits of his tardy conceptions, and, proportioning his estimation of their value by their labour he not only considered his own loss as irreparable but the whole world to be injured by so unfortunate an interruption
The recollection however which refused to assist his fame was importunate in reminding him that the present offender was his patron and his total want of skill in character kept from him the just confidence he would otherwise have placed in the unalterable goodness of heart of Sir Hugh whom though he despised for his ignorance he feared for his power
Uneasy therefore at his exit which he concluded to be made in wrath he uttered a dolorous groan over his papers and compelled himself to follow with an apology the innocent enemy of his glory
Sir Hugh who never harboured displeasure for two minutes in his life was more inclined to offer an excuse himself for what he had dropt against learning than to resist the slightest concession from the Doctor whom he only begged to make haste the horse being already at the door But Dr Orkborne as soon as he comprehended what was desired revived from the weight of sacrificing so much time he had never been on horseback since he was fifteen years of age and declared to the wondering baronet he could not risk his neck by undertaking such a journey
In high satisfaction he would then have returned to his room persuaded that when his mind was disembarrassed a parallel between two ancient authors which with much painful stretch of thought he had suggested and which with the most elaborate difficulty he was arranging and drawing up would recur again to his memory but Sir Hugh always eager in expedients said he should follow in the coach which might be ready time enough for him to arrive at Mrs Arlberys before the visit was over and to bring Eugenia safe back which cried he is the main point for the sake of seeing that she goes no where else
Dr Orkborne looking extremely blank at this unexpected proposition stood still
Wont you go then my good friend
The Doctor after a long pause and in a most dejected tone sighed out Yes sir certainly with the greatest—alacrity
Sir Hugh who took everything literally that seemed right or goodnatured thanked him and ordered the horses to be put to the coach with all possible expedition
It was soon at the door and Dr Orkborne who had spent in his room the intervening period in moaning the loss of the time that was to succeed and in an opinion that two hours of this morning would have been of more value to him than two years when it was gone reluctantly obeyed the call that obliged him to descend but he had no sooner entered the carriage and found he was to have it to himself than leaping suddenly from it as the groom who was to attend him was preparing to shut the door he hastened back to his chamber to collect a packet of books and papers through the means of which he hoped to recall those flowers of rhetoric upon which he was willing to risk his future reputation
The astonished groom concluding something had frightened him jumped into the coach to find the cause of his flight but Sir Hugh who was advancing to give his final directions called out with some displeasure Hollo there you Jacob if Dr Orkborne thinks to get you to go for my nieces in place of himself its what I dont approve which however you need not take amiss one man being no more born with a livery upon his back than another which God forbid I should think otherwise Nevertheless my little girls must have a proper respect shewn them which its surprising Dr Orkborne should not know as well as me
And much disconcerted he walked to the parlour to ruminate upon some other measure
I am sure your honour said Jacob following him I got in with no ill intention but what it was as come across the Doctor I dont know but just as I was a going to shut the door without saying never a word out he pops and runs upstairs again so I only got in to see if something had hurt him but I cant find nothing of no sort
Then putting to the door and looking sagaciously Please your honour he continued I dare say its only some maggot got into his brain from over reading and writing for all the maids think hell soon be cracked
Thats very wrong of them Jacob and I desire youll tell them they must not think any such thing
Why your honour dont know half or youd be afraid too said Jacob lowering his voice hes like nothing you ever see He wont let a chair nor a table be dusted in his room though they are covered over with cobwebs because he says it takes him such a time to put his things to rights again though all the while what he calls being to rights is just the contrary for its a mere higgledy piggledy one thing heaped otop of tother as if he did it for fun
The baronet gravely answered that if there were not the proper shelves for his books he would order more
Why your honour thats not the quarter as I tell you why when theyre cleaning out his room if they happen but to sweep away a bit of paper as big as my hand hell make believe theyve done him as much mischief as if theyd stole a thousand pound It would make your honour stare to hear him Mary says shes sure he has never been quite right ever since he come to the house
But I desire youll tell Mary I dont approve of that opinion Dr Orkborne is one of the first scholars in the world as I am credibly informed and I beg youll all respect him accordingly
Why your honour if it int owing to something of that sort why does he behave so unaccountable I myself heard him making such a noise at the maids one day that I spoke to Mary afterwards and asked her what was the matter—Laws nobody knows says she but heres the Doctor been all in a huff again I was just a dusting his desk says she and so I happened to wipe down a little bundle of papers all nothing but mere scraps and he took on as if theyd been so many guineas says she and he kept me there for an hour looking for them and scolding and telling such a heap of fibs that if he was not out of his head would be a shame for a gentleman to say says she
Fie fie Jacob and tell Mary fie too He is a very learned gentleman and no more a storyteller than I am myself which God forbid
Why your honour how could this here be true he told the maids how they had undone him and the like only because of their throwing down them few bits of papers though they are ready to make oath they picked them up almost every one and that they were all of a crump and of no manner of use
Well well say no more about it good Jacob but go and give my compliments to Dr Orkborne and ask him whats the reason of his changing his mind I mean provided its no secret
Jacob returned in two minutes with uplifted hands and eyes your honour cried he now youll believe me another time he is worse than ever and Ill be bound hell break out before another quarter
Why whats the matter
Why as sure as Im here hes getting together ever so many books and stuffing his pockets and cramming them under his arms just as if he was a porter and when I gave him your honours message I suppose it put him out for he said Dont hurry me so Im a coming making believe as if he was only a preparing for going out in the stead of making that fool of himself
Sir Hugh now really alarmed bid him not mention the matter to anyone and was going upstairs himself when he saw Dr Orkborne heavily laden with books in each hand and bulging from both coat pockets slowly and carefully coming down
Bless me cried he rather fearfully my dear sir what are you going to do with all that library
Dr Orkborne wishing him good morning without attending to his question proceeding to the carriage calling to Jacob who stood aloof to make haste and open the door
Jacob obeyed but with a significant look at his master that said you see how it is sir
Sir Hugh following him gently put his hand upon his shoulder and mildly said My dear friend to be sure you know best but I dont see the use of loading yourself in that manner for nothing
It is a great loss of time sir to travel without books answered the Doctor quietly arranging them in the coach
Travel my good friend Why you dont call it travelling to go four or five miles why if you had known me before my fall—However I dont mean to make any comparisons you gentlemen scholars being no particular good horsemen However if you were to go one hundred miles instead of four or five you could not get through more than one of those books read as hard as you please unless you skip half which I suppose you solid heads leave to the lower ignoramusses
It is not for reading sir that I take all these books but merely to look into There are many of them I shall never read in my life but I shall want them all
Sir Hugh now stared with increased perplexity but Dr Orkborne as eager to go since his books were to accompany him as before to stay told Jacob to bid the coachman make haste Jacob looked at his master who ordered him to mount his mare and the carriage drove off
The baronet in some uneasiness seated himself in the hall to ruminate upon what he had just heard The quietness and usual manner of speaking and looking of Dr Orkborne which he had remarked removed any immediate apprehensions from the assertions of Jacob and Mary but still he did not like the suggestion and the carrying off so many books when he acknowledged he did not mean to read one of them disturbed him
In every shadow of perplexity his first wish was to consult with his brother and if he had not parted with both his carriages he would instantly have set off for Etherington He sent however an express for Mr Tyrold begging to see him at Cleves with all speed
CHAPTER IV
An internal Detection
When the chaise drove from Cleves Park all attempt at any disguise was over with Camilla who alive only to the horror of appearing ungrateful to Edgar wept without controul and leaning back in the carriage entreated Eugenia to dispense with all conversation
Eugenia filled with pity wondered but complied and they travelled near four miles in silence when perceiving over the paling round a paddock Mrs Arlbery and a party of company Camilla dried her eyes and prepared for her visit of which the impetuosity of her feelings had retarded all previous consideration
Eugenia with true concern saw the unfitness of her sister to appear and proposed walking the rest of the way in the hope that a little air and exercise might compose her spirits
She agreed they alighted and bidding the footman keep with the carriage which they ordered should drive slowly behind they proceeded gently arm in arm along a clean raised bank by the side of the road with a pace suiting at once the infirmity of Eugenia and the wish of delay in Camilla
The sound of voices reached them from within the paddock though a thick shrubbery prevented their seeing the interlocutors
Can you make out the arms said one
No answered another but I can see the postillions livery and I am certain it is Sir Hugh Tyrolds
Then it is not coming hither said a third voice which they recollected for Mrs Arlberys we dont visit though I should not dislike to see the old baronet They tell me he is a humorist and I have a taste for all oddities but then he has a house full of females and females I never admit in a morning except when I have secured some men to take the entertaining them off my hands
Whither is Bellamy running cried another voice hes off without a word
Gone in hopes of a rencounter I doubt not answered Mrs Arlbery he made palpable aim at one of the divinities of Cleves at the ball
Eugenia now grew uneasy Let us be quick she whispered and enter the house
Divinities Lord are they divinities said a girlish female voice pray how old are they
I fancy about seventeen
Seventeen gracious I thought theyd been quite young I wonder they ant married
I presume then you intend to be more expeditious said another whose voice spoke him to be General Kinsale
Gracious I hope so for I hate an old bride Ill never marry at all if I stay till I am eighteen
A story goes about said the General that Sir Hugh Tyrold has selected one of his nieces for his sole heiress but no two people agree which it is they have asserted it of each
I was mightily taken with one of the girls said Mrs Arlbery there was something so pleasant in her looks and manner that I even felt inclined to forgive her being younger and prettier than myself but she turned out also to be more whimsical—and that there was no enduring
Camilla extremely ashamed was now upon the point of begging Eugenia to return when a new speech seized all her attention
Do you know General when that beautiful automaton Miss Lynmere is to marry young Mandlebert
Immediately I understand I am told he has fitted up his house very elegantly for her reception
A deep sigh escaped Camilla at such publicity in the report and belief of the engagement of Edgar with her cousin and brought with it a consciousness too strong for any further selfdisguise that her distress flowed not all from an unjust accusation the sound alone of the union struck as a dagger at her heart and told her incontrovertibly who was its master
Her sensations were now most painful she grew pale she became sick and was obliged in her turn to lean upon Eugenia who affrighted to see her thus strangely disordered besought her to go back to the chaise
She consented and begged to pass a few minutes there alone Eugenia therefore stayed without walking slowly upon the bank
Camilla getting into the carriage pulled up the blinds and no longer selfdeceived lamented in a new burst of sorrow her unhappy fate and unpropitious attachment
This consciousness, however became soon a call upon her integrity and her regret was succeeded by a summons upon propriety She gave herself up as lost to all personal felicity but hoped she had discovered the tendency of her affliction in time to avoid the dangers and the errors to which it might lead She determined to struggle without cessation for the conquest of a partiality she deemed it treachery to indulge and to appease any pain she now blushed to have caused to Indiana by strictly following the hard prescription of Miss Margland and the obvious opinion of Eugenia in shunning the society and no longer coveting the approbation of Edgar Such my dear father she cried would be your lesson if I dared consult you such my most honoured mother would be your conduct if thus cruelly situated
This thought thrilled through every vein with pleasure in a sense of filial desert and her sole desire was to return immediately to those incomparable parents under whose roof she had experienced nothing but happiness and in whose bosoms she hoped to bury every tumultuous disturbance
These ideas and resolutions dejecting yet solacing occupied her to the forgetfulness of her intended visit and even of Eugenia till the words Pray let me come to you my dear Camilla made her let down the blinds
She then perceived Mr Bellamy earnestly addressing her sister
He had advanced suddenly towards her by a short cut from the paddock of which she was not aware when she was about twenty yards from the chaise
She made an effort to avoid him but he planted himself in the way of her retreat though with an air of supplication with which she strove in vain to be angry
He warmly represented the cruelty of thus flying him entreated but the privilege of addressing her as a common acquaintance and promised upon that condition to submit unmurmuring to her rejection
Eugenia though in secret she thought this request but equitable made him no answer
O madam he cried what have I not suffered since your barbarous letter why will you be so amiable yet so inexorable
She attempted to quicken her pace but again in the same manner stopping her he exclaimed Do not kill me by this disdain I ask not now for favour or encouragement—I know my hard doom—I ask only to converse with you—though alas it was by conversing with you I lost my heart
Eugenia felt softened and her countenance which had forfeited nothing of expression though every thing of beauty soon shewed Bellamy his advantage He pursued it eagerly depicted his passion deprecated her severity extolled her virtues and accomplishments and bewailed his unhappy hopeless flame
Eugenia knowing that all she said and believing that all she heard issued from the fountain of truth became extremely distressed Let me pass I conjure you Sir she cried and do not take it ill—but I cannot hear you any longer
The vivacity of bright hope flashed into the sparkling eyes of Bellamy at so gentle a remonstrance and entreaties for lenity declarations of passion professions of submission and practice of resistance assailed the young Eugenia with a rapidity that confounded her she heard him with scarce any opposition from a fear of irritating his feelings joined to a juvenile embarrassment how to treat with more severity so sincere and so humble a suppliant
From this situation to the extreme provocation of Bellamy she was relieved by the appearance of Major Cerwood who having observed from the paddock the slow motion of the carriage had come forth to find out the cause
Eugenia seized the moment of interruption to press forward and make the call to her sister already mentioned Bellamy accompanying and pleading but no longer venturing to stop her he handed her therefore to the chaise where Major Cerwood also paid his compliments to the two ladies and hearing they were going to the seat of Mrs Arlbery whither Camilla now forced herself though more unwillingly than ever he ran on with Bellamy to be ready to hand them from the carriage
They were shewn into a parlour while a servant went into the garden to call his mistress
This interval was not neglected by either of the gentlemen for Bellamy was scarce more eager to engage the attention of Eugenia than the Major to force that of Camilla By Lionel he had been informed she was heiress of Cleves he deemed therefore the opportunity by no means to be thrown away of making what he believed required opportunity alone a conquest of her young heart Accustomed to think compliments always welcome to the fair he construed her sadness into softness and imputed her silence to the confusing impression made upon an inexperienced rural beauty by the first assiduities of a man of figure and gallantry
In about a quarter of an hour the servant of Mrs Arlbery slowly returned and with some hesitation said his lady was not at home The gentlemen looked provoked and Camilla and Eugenia much disconcerted at so evident a denial left their names and returned to their carriage
The journey back to Cleves was mute and dejected Camilla was shocked at the conscious state of her own mind and Eugenia was equally pensive She began to think with anxiety of a contract with a person wholly unknown and to consider the passion and constancy of Bellamy as the emanations of a truly elevated mind and meriting her most serious gratitude
At the hall door they were eagerly met by Sir Hugh who with infinite surprise enquired where they had left Dr Orkborne
Dr Orkborne they repeated we have not even seen him
Not seen him did not he come to fetch you
No Sir
Why he went to Mrs Arlberys on purpose And what he stays for at that ladys now you are both come away is a thing I cant pretend to judge of unless he has stopt to read one of those books he took with him which is what I dare say is the case
He cannot be at Mrs Arlberys Sir said Eugenia for we have but this moment left her house
He must be there my dear girls for hes no where else I saw him set out myself which however I shant mention the particulars of having sent for my brother whom I expect every minute
They then concluded he had gone by another road as there were two ways to the Grove
Edgar did not return to Cleves till the family were assembling to dinner His visit to Mrs Needham had occasioned him a new disturbance She had rallied him upon the general rumour of his approaching marriage and his confusion from believing his partiality for Camilla detected was construed into a confirmation of the report concerning Indiana His disavowal was rather serious than strong and involuntarily mixt with such warm eulogiums of the object he imagined to be meant that Mrs Needham who had only named a certain fair one at Cleves laughed at his denial and thought the engagement undoubted
With respect to his enquiries relative to Mrs Arlbery Mrs Needham said that she was a woman far more agreeable to the men than to her own sex that she was full of caprice coquetry and singularity yet though she abused the gift she possessed an excellent and uncommon understanding She was guilty of no vices but utterly careless of appearances and though her character was wholly unimpeached she had offended or frightened almost all the county around by a wilful strangeness of behaviour resulting from an undaunted determination to follow in every thing the bent of her own humour
Edgar justly deemed this a dangerous acquaintance for Camilla whose natural thoughtlessness and vivacity made him dread the least imprudence in the connexions she might form yet as the reputation of Mrs Arlbery was unsullied he felt how difficult would be the task of demonstrating the perils he feared
Sir Hugh during the dinner was exceedingly disturbed What Dr Orkborne can be doing with himself said he is more than any man can tell for he certainly would not stay at the ladys when he found you were both come away so that I begin to think its ten to one but hes gone nobody knows where for why else should he take all those books which is a thing I have been thinking of ever since especially as he owned himself he should never read one half of them If he has taken something amiss I am very ready to ask his pardon though what it can be I dont pretend to guess
Miss Margland said he was so often doing something or other that was illbred that she was not at all surprised he should stay out at dinner time He had never yet fetched her a chair nor opened the door for her since he came to the house so that she did not know what was too bad to expect
As they were rising from the table a note arrived from Mr Tyrold with an excuse that important business would prevent his coming to Cleves till the next day Camilla then begged permission to go in the chaise that was to fetch him flattering herself something might occur to detain her when at Etherington Sir Hugh readily assented and composing himself for his afternoon nap desired to be awaked if Dr Orkborne came back
All now left the room except Camilla who taking up a book stood still at a window till she was aroused by the voice of Edgar who from the Park asked her what she was reading
She turned over the leaves ashamed at the question to look for the title she had held the book mechanically and knew not what it was
He then produced the promised nosegay which had been brought by his gardener during her excursion She softly lifted up the sash pointing to her sleeping uncle he gave it her with a silent little bow and walked away much disappointed to miss an opportunity from which he had hoped for some explanation
She held it in her hand some time scarcely sensible she had taken it till presently she saw its buds bedewed with her falling tears
She shook them off and pressed the nosegay to her bosom This at least she cried I may accept for it was offered me before that barbarous attack Ah they know not the innocence of my regard or they would not so wrong it The universe could not tempt me to injure my cousin though it is true I have valued the kindness of Edgar—and I must always value it—These flowers are more precious to me coming from his hands and reared in his grounds than all the gems of the East could be from any other possessor But where is the guilt of such a preference And who that knows him could help feeling it
Sir Hugh now awakening from a short slumber exclaimed—I have just found out the reason why this poor gentleman has made off I mean provided he is really gone away which however I hope not but I think by his bringing down all those books he meant to give me a broad hint that he had got no proper bookcase to keep them in which the maids as good as think too
Then calling upon Camilla he asked if she was not of that opinion
Y—e—s Sir she hesitatingly answered
Well then my dear if we all think the same Ill give orders immediately for getting the better of that fault
Miss Margland curious to know how Camilla was detained now reentered the room Struck with the fond and melancholy air with which she was bending over her nosegay she abruptly demanded—Pray where might you get those flowers
Covered with shame she could make no answer
O Miss Camilla Miss Camilla—ought not those flowers to belong to Miss Lynmere
Mr Mandlebert had promised me them yesterday morning answered she in a voice scarce audible
And is this fair Maam—can you reckon it honourable—Ill be judged by Sir Hugh himself Do you think it right Sir that Miss Camilla should accept nosegays every day from Mr Mandlebert when her cousin has had never a one at all
Why its not her fault you know Miss Margland if young Mr Mandlebert chuses to give them to her However if that vexes Indiana Im sure my niece will make them over to her with the greatest pleasure for I never knew the thing she would not part with much more a mere little smell at the nose which whether one has it or not cant much matter after its over
Miss Margland now exultingly held out her hand the decision was obliged to be prompt Camilla delivered up the flowers and ran into her own room
The sacrifice cried she is now complete Edgar will conclude I hate him and believe Indiana loves him—no matter—it is fitting he should think both I will be steady this last evening and tomorrow I will quit this fatal roof
CHAPTER V
An Authors Opinion of Visiting
When summoned to tea Camilla upon entering the parlour found Sir Hugh in mournful discourse with Edgar upon the nonappearance of Dr Orkborne Edgar felt a momentary disappointment that she did not honour his flowers with wearing them but consoled himself with supposing she had preserved them in water In a few minutes however Indiana appeared with them in her bosom
Almost petrified he turned towards Camilla who affecting an air of unconcern amused herself with patting a favourite old terrier of her uncles
As soon as he could disengage himself from the Baronet he leant also over the dog and in a low voice said—You have discarded then my poor flowers
Have I not done right answered she in the same tone are they not where you must be far happier to see them
Is it possible exclaimed he Miss Camilla Tyrold can suppose—— He stopt for surprised off his guard he was speaking loud and he saw Miss Margland approaching
Dont you think Mr Mandlebert said she that Miss Lynmere becomes a bouquet very much she took a fancy to those flowers and I think they are quite the thing for her
She does them he coldly answered too much honour
Ah Heaven he loves her not thought Camilla and while trembling between hope and terror at the suggestion determined to redouble her circumspection not to confirm the suspicion that his indifference was produced by her efforts to attach him to herself
She had soon what she conceived to be an occasion for its exertion When he handed her some cakes he said—You would think it I conclude impertinent to hear anything more concerning Mrs Arlbery now you have positively opened an acquaintance with her
She felt the justice of this implied reproach of her broken promise but she saw herself constantly watched by Miss Margland and repressing the apology she was sighing to offer only answered—You have nothing you own to say against her reputation—and as to any thing else——
True interrupted he my information on that point is all still in her favour but can it be Miss Camilla Tyrold who holds that to be the sole question upon which intimacy ought to depend Does she account as nothing manners disposition way of life
No not absolutely as nothing said she rising but taste settles all those things and mine is entirely in her favour
Edgar gravely begged her pardon for so officiously resuming an irksome subject and returning to Sir Hugh endeavoured to listen to his lamentations and conjectures about Dr Orkborne
He felt however deeply hurt In naming Mrs Arlbery he had flattered himself he had opened an opportunity for which she must herself be waiting to explain the motives of her late visit but her light answer put an end to that hope and her quitting her seat shewed her impatient of further counsel
Not a word that fell from Sir Hugh reached his ear but he bowed from time to time and the good Baronet had no doubt of his attention His eyes were perpetually following Camilla though they met not a glance from her in return She played with the terrier talked with Eugenia looked out of the window turned over some books and did everything with an air of negligence that while it covered absence and anxiety displayed a studied avoidance of his notice
The less he could account for this the more it offended him And dwells caprice thought he while his eye followed her even there in that fair composition—where may I look for singleness of mind for nobleness of simplicity if caprice mere girlish unmeaning caprice dwell there
The moment she had finished her tea she left the room to shorten her cruel task Struck with the broken sentence of is it possible Miss Camilla Tyrold can suppose—— the soft hope that his heart was untouched by Indiana seized her delighted imagination but the recollection of Miss Marglands assertions that it was the real right of her cousin soon robbed the hope of all happiness and she could only repeat—Tomorrow I will go—I ought not to think of him—I had rather be away—tomorrow I will go
She had hardly quitted the parlour when the distant sound of a carriage roused Sir Hugh from his fears and followed by Edgar and the ladies he made what haste he could into the courtyard where to his infinite satisfaction he saw his coach driving in
He ordered it should stop immediately and called out—Pray Dr Orkborne are you there
Dr Orkborne looked out of the window and bowed respectfully
Good lack I could never have thought I should be so glad to see you which you must excuse in point of being no relation You are heartily welcome I assure you I was afraid I should never see you again for to tell you the honest truth which I would not say a word of before I had got a notion you were going out of your mind
The Doctor took not the smallest heed of his speech and the carriage drove up to the door Sir Hugh then seating himself under the portico said—Pray Dr Orkborne before you go to your studies may I just ask you how you came to stay out all day and why you never fetched Eugenia for I take it for granted its no secret on the account Jacob was with you besides the coachman and horses
Dr Orkborne though not at all discomposed by these questions nor by his reception answered that he must first collect his books
The poor girls continued the Baronet came home quite blank not that they knew a word of my asking you to go for them till I told them which was lucky enough for the sake of not frightening them However where you can have been particularly with regard to your dinner which I suppose you have gone without is what I cant guess unless youd be kind enough to tell me
The Doctor too busy to hear him was packing up his books
Come never mind your books said Sir Hugh Jacob can carry them for you or Bob or any body Here Bob calling to the postillion who with all the rest of the servants had been drawn by curiosity into the courtyard whisk me up those books and take them into the Doctors room I mean provided you can find a place for them which I am sorry to say there is none owing to my not knowing better in point of taking the proper care which I shall be sure to do for the future
The boy obeyed and mounting one step of the coach took what were within his reach which when the Doctor observed he snatched away with great displeasure saying very solemnly he had rather at any time be knocked down than see any body touch one of his books or papers
Jacob coming forward whispered his master not to interfere assuring him he was but just got out of one of his tantrums
Sir Hugh a little startled rose to return to the parlour begging Dr Orkborne to take his own time and not hurry himself
He then beckoned Jacob to follow him
There is certainly something in all this said he to Edgar beyond what my poor wit can comprehend but Ill hear what Jacob has to say before I form a complete judgment though to be sure his lugging out all those books to go but four or five miles has but an odd look which is what I dont like to say
Jacob now was called upon to give a narrative of the days adventures Why your Honour said he as soon as we come to the Grove I goes up to the coach door to ask the Doctor if he would get out or only send in to let the young ladies know he was come for them but he was got so deep into some of his larning that I dare say I bawled it three good times in his ears before he so much as lifted up his head and then it was only to say I put him out and to it he went again just as if Id said never a word till at last I was so plaguy mad I gives the coach such a jog to bring him to himself like that it jerked the pencil and paper out of his hand So then he went straight into one of his takings pretending I had made him forget all his thoughts and such like out of the way talk after his old way So when I found he was going off in that manner I thought it only time lost to say no more to him and so I turned me about not to mind him when I sees a whole heap of company at a parlour window laughing so hearty that I was sure they had heard us And a fine comely lady as clever as ever you see that I found after was the lady of the house bid me come to the window and asked what I wanted So I told her we was come for two of the Miss Tyrolds Why says she theyve been gone a quarter of an hour by the opposite road So then I was coming away but she made me a sign to come into the parlour for all it was brimful of fine company dressed all like I dont know what It was as pretty a sight as youd wish to see And then your honour they all begun upon me at once there was such a clatter I thought Id been turned into a booth at a fair and merry enough they all was sure—specially the lady who never opened her lips but what they all laughed but as to all what they asked me I could as soon conjure a ghost as call a quarter of it to mind
Try however said Edgar curious for further information of whatever related to Mrs Arlbery
Why as to that squire answered Jacob with an arch look I am not so sure and certain youd like to hear it all
No and why not
O pray tell Jacob cried Miss Margland did they say anything of Mr Mandlebert
Yes and of more than Mr Mandlebert said Jacob grinning
Do tell do tell cried Indiana eagerly
Im afeard Miss
Every body assured him no offence should be taken
Well then if you must needs know there was not one of you but what they had a pluck at—Pray says one of them what does the old gentleman do with all those books and papers in the coach—Thats what nobody knows says I unless his heads cracked which is Marys opinion—Then they all laughed more and more and the lady of the house said—Pray can he really read—Whoo says I why he does nothing else hes at it from morning till night and Mary says shes sure before long hell give up his meat and drink for it—Ive always heard he was a quiz says another or a quoz or some such word but I did not know he was such a bookworm—The old quoz is generous however I hear says another pray do you find him so—As to that I cant say says I for I never see the colour of his money—No then what are you such a fool as to serve him for—So then your honour I found owing to the coach and the arms and the like they thought all the time it was your honour was in the coach I hope your honour dont take it amiss of me
Not at all Jacob only I dont know why they call me an old quiz and quoz for never having offended them which I take rather unkind especially not knowing what it means
Why your honour theyre such comical sort of folks they dont mind what they say of nobody Not but what the lady of the house is a rare gentlewoman Your honour could not help liking her I warrant shes made many a mans heart ache and then jumped for joy when shed done And as to her eyes I think in my born days I never see nothing like em they shines like two candles on a dark night afar off on the common——
Why Jacob said Sir Hugh I see you have lost your heart However go on
Why as soon as I found out what they meant—That my master says I no God be thanked What should I have to live upon if a was Not so much as a cobweb for there would not be wherewithal for a spider to make it
Here Sir Hugh with much displeasure interrupted him As to the poor gentlemans being poor said he its no fault of his own for hed be rich if he could I make no doubt never having heard he was a gambler Besides which I always respect a man the more for being poor knowing how little a rich man may have in him which I can judge by my own case
Jacob proceeded
Well if it is not Sir Hugh says one of them who is it—Why its only our Latin master says I upon which they all set up as jolly a laugh again as ever I heard in my days Jobbins theyre pure merry—And who learns Latin says one I hope they dont let him work at poor old Sir Hugh No says I they tried their hands with him at first but he thanked em for nothing He soon grew tired ont—So then they said who learns now says they do you—Me says I no God be praised I dont know A from B which is the way my heads so clear never having muddled it with what I dont understand—And so then they all said I was a brave fellow and they ordered me a glass of wine
What a set thought Edgar is this idle dissipated curious—for Camilla to associate with—the lively the unthinking the inexperienced Camilla
So then they asked me says they does Miss Lynmere learn says they—Not as I know of says I shes no great turn for her book as ever I heard of which I hope Miss you wont take ill for they all said no to be sure shes too handsome for that
Indiana looked uncertain whether to be flattered or offended
But you have not told us what they said of Mr Mandlebert yet cried Miss Margland
No I must come to you first Miss answered he for thats what they come upon next But mayhap I must not tell
O yes you may said she growing a little apprehensive of some affront but determined not to seem hurt by it I am very indifferent to any thing they can say of me assure yourself
Why I suppose says they this Latin master studies chiefly with the governess—Theyd study fistycuffs I believe if they did says I for she hates him like poison and theres no great love lost between them
And what right had you to say that Mr Jacob I did not ask what you said Not that I care I promise you
Why some how they got it all out they were so merry and so full of their fun I could not be behind hand But I hope no offence
O dear no Im sure its not worth while
They said worse than I did resumed Jacob by a deal they said says they she looks duced crabbed—she looks just as if she was always eating a sour apple says the lady she looks—
Well well I dont want to hear any more of their opinions I may look as I please I hope I hate such gossiping
So then they said pray does Miss Camilla learn says they—Lord love her no says I
And what said they to that cried Edgar
Why they said they hoped not and they were glad to hear it for they liked her the best of all And what does the ugly one do says they—
Come we have heard enough now interrupted Edgar greatly shocked for poor Eugenia who fortunately however had retired with Camilla
Sir Hugh too angrily broke in upon him saying I wont have my niece called ugly Jacob you know its against my commands such a things being mentioned
Why I told em so sir said Jacob ugly one says I she you call the ugly one is one of the best ladies in the land Shes ready to lend a hand to every mortal soul shes just like my master for that And as to learning I make no quæry she can talk you over the Latin grammar as fast as eer a gentleman here So then they laughed harder than ever and said they should be afeard to speak to her and a deal more I cant call to mind—So then they come to Mr Mandlebert Pray says they whats he doing among you all this time—Why nothing particular says I hes only squiring about our young ladies—But when is this wedding to be says another So then I said—
What did you say cried Edgar hastily
Why—nothing answered Jacob drawing back
Tell us however what they said cried Miss Margland
Why they said says they everything has been ready some time at Beech Park—and theyll make as handsome a couple as ever was seen
What stuff is this cried Edgar do prithee have done—
No no said Miss Margland go on Jacob
Indiana conscious and glowing at the words handsome couple could not restrain a simper but Edgar thinking only of Camilla did not understand it
Hell have trouble enough says one of the gentlemen continued Jacob to take care of so pretty a wife—Shell be worth a little trouble says another for I think she is the most beautifullest girl I ever see—Take my word of it says the lady of the house young Mandlebert is a man who wont be made a fool of hell have his own way for all her beauty
What a character to give of me to young ladies cried Edgar doubtful in his turn whether to be hurt or gratified
O she did not stop at that sir resumed Jacob for she said I make no question says she but in half a year hell lock her up
Indiana surprized gave an involuntary little shriek but Edgar not imputing it to any appropriate alarm was filled with resentment against Mrs Arlbery What incomprehensible injustice he said to himself O Camilla is it possible any event any circumstance upon earth could induce me to practise such an outrage to degenerate into such a savage
Is this all asked Miss Margland
No maam but I dont know if Miss will like to hear the rest
O yes said Indiana if its about me I dont mind
Why they all said Miss youd make the most finest bride that ever was seen and they did not wonder at Mr Mandleberts chusing you but for all that—
He stopt and Edgar who following the bent of his own thoughts had till now concluded Camilla to be meant was utterly confounded by discovering his mistake The presence of Indiana redoubled the awkwardness of the situation and her blushes and the increased lustre of her eyes did not make the report seem either unwelcome or perfectly new to her
Miss Margland raised her head triumphantly This was precisely such a circumstance as she flattered herself would prove decisive
The Baronet equally pleased returned her nod of congratulation and nodding himself towards Edgar said youre blown you see but what matters secrets about nothing which Lord help me I never knew how to keep
Edgar was now still more disconcerted and from mere distress what to say or do bid Jacob go on
Why then they said a deal more how pretty she was he continued but they did not know how it would turn out for the young lady was so much admired that her husband had need look sharp after her and if—
What complete impertinence cried Edgar walking about the room I really can listen no longer
If he had done wisely says the lady of the house he would have left the professed beauty and taken that pretty Camilla
Edgar surprized stopt short this seemed to him less impertinent
Camilla is a charming creature says she though she may want a little watching too but so does every thing that is worth having
That woman does not want discernment thought Edgar nor she does not want taste—I can never totally dislike her if she does such justice to Camilla
He now again invited Jacob to proceed but Indiana with a pouting lip walked out of the room and Miss Margland said there was not need to be hearing him all night
Jacob therefore when no more either interrupted or encouraged soon finished his narrative Mrs Arlbery amused by watching Dr Orkborne had insisted for an experiment that Jacob should not return to the coach till he was missed and called for and so intense was the application of the Doctor to what he was composing that this did not happen till the whole family had dined Jacob and the coachman at the invitation of Mrs Arlbery having partaken of the servants fare equally pleased with the regale and the joke Dr Orkborne then suddenly recollecting himself demanded why the young ladies were so late and was much discomposed and astonished when he heard they were gone Mrs Arlbery invited him into the house and offered him refreshments while she ordered water and a feed of corn for the horses but he only fretted a little and then went on again with his studies
Sir Hugh now sent some cold dinner into the Doctors room and declared he should always approve his nieces acquaintance with Mrs Arlbery as she was so kind to his servants and his animals
CHAPTER VI
An Authors Idea of Order
Not a bosom of the Cleves party enjoyed much tranquillity this evening Miss Margland though to the Baronet she would not recede from her first assertions strove vainly to palliate to herself the ill grace and evident dissatisfaction with which Edgar had met the report To save her own credit however was always her primary consideration she resolved therefore to cast upon unfair play in Camilla or upon the instability of Edgar all the blame really due to her own undiscerning selfsufficiency
Indiana thought so little for herself that she adopted of course every opinion of Miss Margland yet the immoveable coldness of Edgar contrasted frequently in her remembrance by the fervour of Melmond and of Macdersey became more and more distasteful to her and Mrs Arlberys idea that she should be locked up in half a year made her look upon him alternately as something to shun or to overreach She even wished to refuse him—but Beech Park the equipage the servants the bridal habiliment—No she could enjoy those if not him And neither her own feelings nor the lessons of Miss Margland had taught her to look upon marriage in any nobler point of view
But the person most deeply dissatisfied this evening was Edgar He now saw that deceived by his own consciousness he had misunderstood Mrs Needham who as well as Mrs Arlbery he was convinced concluded him engaged to Indiana He had observed with concern the approving credulity of Sir Hugh and though glad to find his real plan and all his wishes unsuspected the false report excited his fears lest Indiana should give it any credit and secretly hurt his delicacy for the honour of his taste
All the influence of pecuniary motives to which he deemed Camilla superior occurred to him in the very words of Dr Marchmont for Indiana whose capacity he saw was as shallow as her person was beautiful Yet the admiration with which she had already made her first appearance in the world might naturally induce her belief of his reported devotion If therefore his situation appeared to her to be eligible she had probably settled to accept him
The most timid female delicacy was not more scrupulous than the manly honour of Edgar to avoid this species of misapprehension and though perfectly confident his behaviour had been as irreproachable as it was undesigning the least idea of any selfdelusion on the part of Indiana seemed a call upon his integrity for the most unequivocal manifestation of his intentions Yet any declaration by words with whatever care selected might be construed into an implication that he concluded the decision in his own hands And though he could scarcely doubt the fact he justly held nothing so offensive as the palpable presumption One only line of conduct appeared to him therefore unexceptionable which was wholly to avoid her till the rumour sunk into its own nothingness
This demanded from him a sacrifice the most painful that of retiring from Cleves in utter ignorance of the sentiments of Camilla yet it seemed the more necessary since he now with much uneasiness recollected many circumstances which his absorbed mind had hitherto suffered to pass unnoticed that led him to fear Sir Hugh himself and the whole party entertained the same notion
He was shocked to consider Camilla involved in such a deception though delighted by the idea he might perhaps owe to an explanation some marks of that preference for which Dr Marchmont had taught him to wait and which he now hoped might lie dormant from the persuasion of his engagement To clear this mistake was therefore every way essential as otherwise the very purity of her character must be in his disfavour
Still however the visit to the Grove hung upon his mind and he resolved to investigate its cause the following morning before he made his retreat
Early the next day Camilla sent to hasten the chaise which was to fetch Mr Tyrold and begged leave of her uncle to breakfast at Etherington His assent was always ready and believing every evil would yield to absence she eagerly and even with happiness set off
When the rest of the party assembled without her Edgar surprised enquired if she were well Miss Margland answered yes but for the sake of what she loved best in the world a frolic she was gone in the chaise to Etherington Edgar could not prevail with himself to depart till he had spoken with her and privately deferred his purposed leavetaking till noon
During this report Sir Hugh was anxiously engaged in some business he seemed to wish to conceal He spoke little but nodded frequently to himself with an air of approving his own ideas he summoned Jacob to him repeatedly with whom he held various whispering conferences and desired Miss Margland who made the tea not to pour it out too fast as he was in no hurry to have breakfast over
When nothing he could urge succeeded in making any of the company eat or drink any thing more he pulled Edgar by the sleeve and in an eager but low voice said My dear Mr Edgar I have a great favour to beg of you which is only that you will do something to divert Dr Orkborne
I should be very happy Sir cried Edgar smiling but I much doubt my capability
Why my dear Mr Edgar its only to keep him from finding out my new surprise till its got ready And if you will but just spout out to him a bit or two of Virgil and Horace or some of those Greek and Latin languagemasters hell be in no hurry to budge I promise you
A request from Sir Hugh who with the most prompt alacrity met the wishes of everyone was by Edgar held to be indisputable He advanced therefore to Dr Orkborne who was feeling for his tablets which he commonly examined in his way up the stairs and started a doubt of which he begged an exposition upon a passage of Virgil
Dr Orkborne willingly stopt and displayed with no small satisfaction an erudition that did him nearly as much honour in the ears of the ignorant and admiring Sir Hugh as in those of the cultivated and welljudging Edgar Ah said the Baronet sighing though addressing himself to no one if I had but addicted myself to these studies in due season I might have understood all this too though now I cant for my life make out much sense of what theyre talking of nor a little neither indeed as to that thanks to my own idleness to which however I am not much obliged
Unfortunately the discussion soon led to some points of comparison that demanded a review of various authors and the doctor proposed adjourning to his own apartment The Baronet winked at Edgar who would have changed the discourse or himself have sought the books or have been satisfied without them but Dr Orkborne was as eager here as in other matters he was slow and phlegmatic and regardless of all opposition was making off when Sir Hugh catching him by the arm exclaimed My good friend I beg it as a particular favour you wont stir a step
Not stir a step Sir repeated the doctor amazed
That is not to your own room
Not go to my own room Sir
The Baronet gently begged him not to take it amiss and presently upon the appearance of Jacob who entered with a significant smile said he would keep him no longer
Dr Orkborne to whom nothing was so irksome as a moments detention from his books and papers instantly departed inviting Edgar to accompany him but without troubling himself to inquire for what end he had been held back
When they were gone Sir Hugh rubbing his hands said Well I think this good gentleman wont go about the country again with all his books fastened about him to shew he has nowhere to put them for as to his telling me he only took them to look at I am not quite such an ignoramus with all my ignorance as to believe such a thing as that especially of a regular bred scholar
A loud and angry sound of voices from above here interrupted the pleased harangue of the Baronet Miss Margland opened the door to listen and with no small delight heard words scarce intelligible for rage breaking from Dr Orkborne whose anger while Edgar was endeavouring to moderate Jacob and Mary were vociferously resenting
Sir Hugh all astonished feared there was some mistake He had sent the preceding day as far as Winchester for two bookcases which he had ordered should arrive early and be put up during the breakfast and he had directed Mary to place upon the shelves with great care all the loose books and papers she found dispersed about the room as neatly as possible after which Jacob was to give notice when all was arranged
The words now If I must have my manuscripts rummaged at pleasure by every dunce in the house I would rather lie in the street distinctly caught their ears Sir Hugh was thunderstruck with amazement and disappointment but said nothing Miss Margland looked all spite and pleasure and Eugenia all concern
Louder yet and with accents of encreasing asperity the Doctor next exclaimed A twelvemonths hard labour will not repair this mischief I should have been much more obliged to you if you had blown out my brains
The Baronet aghast cried Lord help us I think I had best go and get the shelves pulled down again what I have done not being meant to offend being what will cost me ten pounds and upwards
He then though somewhat irresolute whether or not to proceed moved towards the foot of the stairs but there a new storm of rage startled him I wish you had been all of you annihilated ere ever you had entered my room I had rather have lost my ears than that manuscript I wish with all my heart you had been at the bottom of the sea every one of you before you had touched it
If you wont believe me it cant be helped said Mary but if I was to tell it you over and over Ive done nothing to no mortal thing I only just swept the room after the carpenter was gone for it was all in such a pickle it was a shame to be seen
You have ruined me cried he you have swept it behind the fire I make not a moments doubt and I had rather you had given me a bowl of poison you can make me no reparation it was a clue to a whole section
Well I wont make no more words about it said Mary angrily but Im sure I never so much as touched it with a pair of tongs for I never see it nor I dont so much as know it if I do
Why its a piece of paper written all over look just such another as this I left it on the table by this corner—
O that cried Mary yes I remember that
Well where is it What have you done with it
Why I happened of a little accident about that—for as I was a sweeping under the table the broom knocked the ink down but by good luck it only fell upon that little morsel of paper
Little morsel of paper its more precious than a whole library But what did you do with it what is become of it whatever condition it is in if you have but saved it—where is it I say
Why—it was all over ink and good for nothing so I did not think of your missing it—so I throwed it behind the fire
I wish you had been thrown there yourself with all my heart But if ever you bring a broom into my room again—
Why I did nothing but what my master ordered—
Or if ever you touch a paper or a book of mine again—
My master said himself—
Your masters a blockhead and you are another—go away I say
Mary now hurried out of the room enraged for her master and frightened for herself and Edgar not aware Sir Hugh was within hearing soon succeeded in calming the doctor by mildly listening to his lamentations
Sir Hugh extremely shocked sat upon the stairs to recover himself Miss Margland who never felt so virtuous and never so elated as when witnessing the imperfections or improprieties of others descanted largely against ingratitude treating an unmeaning sally of passion as a serious mark of turpitude but Eugenia ashamed for Dr Orkborne to whom as her preceptor she felt a constant disposition to be partial determined to endeavour to induce him to make some apology She glided therefore past her uncle and tapped at the doctors door
Mary seeing her master so invitingly in her way could by no means resist her desire of appeal and complaint and descending the stairs begged his honour to hear her
Mary said he rising and returning to the parlour you need not tell me a word for I have heard it all myself by which it may be truly said listeners never hear good of themselves so Ive got the proper punishment for which reason I hope you wont look upon it as an example
I am sure Sir said Mary if your honour can excuse his speaking so disrespectful its what nobody else can and if it was not for thinking as his heads got a crack in it there is not a servant among us as would not affront him for it
The Baronet interrupted her with a serious lecture upon the civility he expected for all his guests and she promised to restrain her wrath But only sir she continued if your honour had seen the bit of paper as he made such a noise at me for your honour would not have believed it Not a soul could have read it My Tom would ha been well licked if hed wrote no better at school And as to his being a twelvemonth a scrawling such another Ill no more believe it than Ill fly Its as great a fib as ever was told
Sir Hugh begged her to be quiet and to think no more of the matter
No your honour I hope Im not a person as bears malice only I could not but speak of it because he behaves more comical every day I thought hed ha beat me over and over And as to the stories he tells about them little bits of paper mortal patience cant bear it no longer
The remonstrance of Eugenia took immediate effect Dr Orkborne shocked and alarmed at the expression which had escaped him protested himself willing to make the humblest reparation and truly declared he had been so greatly disturbed by the loss he had just sustained that he not merely did not mean but did not know what he had said
Edgar was the bearer of his apology which Sir Hugh accepted with his usual good humour His calling me a blockhead cried he is a thing I have no right to resent because I take it for granted he would not have said it if he had not thought it and a mans thoughts are his castle and ought to be free
Edgar repeated the protestation that he had been hurried on by passion and spoke without meaning
Why then my dear Mr Edgar I must fairly own I dont see the great superiorness of learning if it cant keep a mans temper out of a passion However say nothing of the sort to poor Clermont upon his coming over who I expect wont speak one word in ten I shall understand which however as its all been done for the best I would not have the poor boy discouraged in
He then sent a kind message by Edgar to Dr Orkborne desiring him not to mind such a trifle
This conciliating office was congenial to the disposition of Edgar and softened his impatience for the return of Camilla but when soon after a note arrived from Mr Tyrold requesting Sir Hugh to dispense with seeing him till the next day and apologising for keeping his daughter he felt equally disappointed and provoked though he determined not to delay any longer his departure He gave orders therefore for his horses immediately and with all the less regret for knowing Camilla no longer in the circle he was to quit
The ladies were in the parlour with Sir Hugh who was sorrowfully brooding over his brothers note when he entered it to take leave Addressing himself somewhat rapidly to the Baronet he told him he was under an unpleasant necessity to relinquish some days of the months sojourn intended for him He made acknowledgments full of regard for his kindness and hospitality and then only bowing to the ladies left the room before the astonished Sir Hugh comprehended he was going
Well cried Miss Margland this is curious indeed He has flown off from everything without even an apology
I hope he is not really gone said Eugenia walking to the window
Im sure I dont care what he does cried Indiana hes welcome to go or to stay Im grown quite sick of him for my part
Gone said Sir Hugh recovering breath its impossible Why he never has said one word to me of the day nor the settlements nor all those things
He then rang the bell and sent to desire Mr Mandlebert might be called immediately
Edgar who was mounting his horse obeyed with some chagrin As soon as he reentered the room Sir Hugh cried My dear Mr young Edgar its something amazing to me you should think of going away without coming to an explanation
An explanation sir
Yes dont you know what I mean
Not in the least sir cried Edgar staggered by a doubt whether he suspected what he felt for Camilla or referred to what was reported of Indiana
Why then my pretty dear said Sir Hugh to Indiana you wont object I hope to taking a little walk in the garden provided it is not disagreeable to you for you had better not hear what we are going to talk about before your face
Indiana pouting her beautiful under lip and scornfully passing Edgar complied Eugenia accompanied her but Miss Margland kept her ground
Sir Hugh always unwilling to make any attack and at a loss how to begin simply said Why I thought Mr Mandlebert you would stay with us till next year
Edgar only bowed
Why then suppose you do
Most probably sir I shall by that time be upon the Continent If some particular circumstance does not occur I purpose shortly making the tour of Europe
Sir Hugh now lost all guard and all restraint and with undisguised displeasure exclaimed So heres just the second part of Clermont at the moment I sent for him home thinking he would come to put the finish to all my cares about Eugenia he sends me word he must travel—And though the poor girl took it very well from knowing nothing of the matter I cant say I take it very kind of you Mr young Edgar to come and do just the same by Indiana
The surprize of Edgar was unspeakable that Sir Hugh should wish the relation of Jacob with respect to Indiana confirmed he could not wonder but that his wishes should have amounted to expectations and that he should deem his niece ill used by their failure gave him the most poignant astonishment
Miss Margland taking advantage of his silent consternation began now to pour forth very volubly the most pointed reflections upon the injury done to young ladies by reports of this nature which were always sure to keep off all other offers There was no end she said to the admirers who had deserted Indiana in despair and she questioned if she would ever have any more from the general belief of her being actually preengaged
Edgar whose sense of honour was tenaciously delicate heard her with a mixture of concern for Indiana and indignation against herself that kept her long uninterrupted for though burning to assert the integrity of his conduct the fear of uttering a word that might be offensive to Indiana embarrassed and checked him
Sir Hugh who in seeing him overpowered concluded he was relenting now kindly took his hand and said My dear Mr Mandlebert if you are sorry for what you were intending of going away and leaving us all in the lurch why you shall never hear a word more about it for I will make friends for you with Indiana and beg of Miss Margland that shell do us the favour to say no more
Edgar affectionately pressing the hand of the Baronet uttered the warmest expressions of personal regard and protested he should always think it an honour to have been held worthy of pretending to any alliance in his family but he knew not how the present mistake had been made or report had arisen he could boast of no partiality from Miss Lynmere nor had he ever addressed her with any particular views yet as it was the opinion of Miss Margland that the rumour however false might prevent the approach of some deserving object he now finally determined to become for awhile a stranger at Cleves however painful such selfdenial must prove
He then precipitately left the room and in five minutes had galloped out of the Park
The rest of the morning was spent by Sir Hugh in the utmost discomposure and by Miss Margland in alternate abuse of Camilla and of Edgar while Indiana passed from a piqued and short disappointment to the consolatory idea that Melmond might now reappear
Edgar rode strait to Beech Park where he busied himself the whole day in viewing alterations and improvements but where nothing answered his expectations since Camilla had disappointed them That sunbeam which had gilded the place to his eyes was now overclouded and the first possession of his own domain was his first day of discontent
CHAPTER VII
A Maternal Eye
The vivacity with which Camilla quitted Cleves was sunk before she reached Etherington She had quitted also Edgar quitted him offended and in doubt if it might ever be right she should vindicate herself in his opinion Yet all seemed strange and unintelligible that regarded the asserted nuptials his indifference was palpable she believed him to have been unaccountably drawn in and her heart softly whispered it was herself he preferred
From this soothing but dangerous idea she struggled to turn her thoughts She anticipated the remorse of holding the affections of the husband of her cousin and determined to use every possible method to forget him—unless which she strove vainly not to hope the reported alliance should never take place
These reflections so completely engrossed her the whole way that she arrived at the Parsonage House without the smallest mental preparation how to account for her return or how to plead for remaining at Etherington Foresight the offspring of Judgment or the disciple of Experience, made no part of the character of Camilla whose impetuous disposition was open to every danger of indiscretion though her genuine love of virtue glowed warm with juvenile ardour
She entered therefore the breakfast parlour in a state of sudden perplexity what to say Mr Tyrold was alone and writing He looked surprized but embraced her with his accustomed affection and enquired to what he owed her present sight
She made no answer but embraced him again and enquired after her mother
She is well he replied but tell me is your uncle impatient of my delay It has been wholly unavoidable I have been deeply engaged and deeply chagrined Your poor mother would be still more disturbed if the nobleness of her mind did not support her
Camilla extremely grieved earnestly enquired what had happened
He then informed her that Mrs Tyrold the very next morning must abruptly quit them all and set out for Lisbon to her sick brother Mr Relvil
Is he so much worse
No I even hope he is better An act of folly has brought this to bear Do not now desire particulars I will finish my letter and then return with you for a few minutes to Cleves The carriage must wait
Suffer me first to ask does Lavinia go with my mother
No she can only take old Ambrose Lavinia must supply her place at home
Ah my dearest father and may not I too stay with you and assist her
If my brother will spare you my dear child there is nothing can so much contribute to wile away to me your mothers absence
Enchanted thus without any explanation to have gained her point she completely revived though when Mrs Tyrold whom she almost worshipped entered the room in all the hurry of preparing for her long journey she shed a torrent of tears in her arms
This good girl said Mr Tyrold is herself desirous to quit the present gaieties of Cleves to try to enliven my solitude till we all may meet again
The conscious and artless Camilla could not bear this undeserved praise She quitted her mother and returning to Mr Tyrold O my father she cried if you will take me again under your beloved roof it is for my sake—not yours—I beg to return
She is right said Mrs Tyrold there is no merit in having an heart she could have none if to be with you were not her first gratification
Yes indeed my dear mother it would always be so even if no other inducement— She stopt short confused
Mr Tyrold who continued writing did not heed this little blunder but his wife whose quickness of apprehension and depth of observation were always alive even in the midst of business cares and other attentions turned hastily to her daughter and asked to what other inducement she alluded
Camilla distressed hung her head and would have forborne making any answer
Mrs Tyrold then putting down various packets which she was sorting and selecting came suddenly up to her and taking both her hands looked earnestly in her face saying My Camilla something has disquieted you—your countenance is not itself. Tell me my dear girl what brought you hither this morning and what is it you mean by some other inducement
Do not ask me now my dearest mother answered she in a faltering voice when you come back again no doubt all will be over and then—
And is that the time Camilla to speak to your best friends would it not be more judicious to be explicit with them while what affects you is still depending
Camilla hiding her face on her mothers bosom burst afresh into tears
Alas cried Mrs Tyrold what new evil is hovering If it must invade me again through one of my children tell me at least Camilla it is not wilfully that you too afflict me and afflict the best of fathers
Mr Tyrold dropping his pen looked at them both with the most apprehensive anxiety
No my dearest mother said Camilla endeavouring to meet her eyes not wilfully—but something has happened—I can hardly myself tell how or what—but indeed Cleves now— she hesitated
How is my brother demanded Mr Tyrold
O all that is good and kind and I grieve to quit him—but indeed Cleves now— Again she hesitated
Ah my dear child said Mrs Tyrold I always feared that residence—you are too young too inconsiderate too innocent indeed to be left so utterly to yourself—Forgive me my dear Mr Tyrold I do not mean to reflect upon your brother but he is not you—and with you alone this dear inexperienced girl can be secure from all harm Tell me however what it is—
Camilla in the extremest confusion changed colour but tried vainly to speak Mr Tyrold suspended from all employment waited fearfully some explanation
We have no time said Mrs Tyrold for delay—you know I am going abroad—and cannot ascertain my return though all my heart left behind me with my children and their father will urge every acceleration in my power
Camilla wept again fondly folding her arms round her mother I had hoped she cried that I should have come home to peace comfort tranquillity to both of you my dearest father and mother and to all my unbroken happiness under your roof—How little did I dream of so cruel a separation
Console yourself my Camilla that you have not been its cause may Heaven ever spare me evil in your shape at least—you say it is nothing wilful I can bear everything else
We will not said Mr Tyrold press her she will tell us all in her own way and at her own time Forced confidence is neither fair nor flattering I will excuse her return to my brother and she will the sooner be able to give her account for finding herself not hurried
Calm yourself then said Mrs Tyrold as your indulgent father permits and I will proceed with my preparations
Camilla now somewhat recovering declared she had almost nothing to say but her mother continued packing up and her father went on with his letter
She had now time to consider that her own fears and emotion were involving her in unnecessary confessions she resolved therefore to repress the fulness of her heart and to acknowledge only the accusation of Miss Margland And in a few minutes without waiting for further enquiry she gathered courage to open upon the subject and with as much ease and quietness as she could command related in general terms the charge brought against her and her consequent desire to quit Cleves till——till—— Here she stopt for breath Mr Tyrold instantly finished the sentence till the marriage has taken place
She coloured and faintly uttered Yes
You are right my child said he and you have acted with a prudence which does you honour Neither the ablest reasoning nor the most upright conduct can so completely obliterate a surmise of this nature from a suspicious mind as absence You shall remain therefore with me till your cousin is settled in her new habitation Do you know if the day is fixed
No sir she answered while the roses fled her cheeks at a question which implied so firm a belief of the union
Do not suffer this affair to occasion you any further uneasiness he continued it is the inherent and unalienable compact of Innocence with Truth to hold themselves immovably superior to the calumny of false imputations But I will go myself to Cleves and set this whole matter right
And will you too sir have the goodness— She was going to say to make my peace with Edgar but the fear of misinterpretation checked her and she turned away
He gently enquired what she meant she avoided any explanation and he resumed his writing
Ah me thought she will the time ever come when with openness with propriety I may clear myself of caprice to Edgar
Less patient because more alarmed than her husband Mrs Tyrold followed her to the window She saw a tear in her eye and again she took both her hands Have you my Camilla she cried have you told us all Can unjust impertinence so greatly have disturbed you Is there no sting belonging to this wound that you are covering from our sight though it may precisely be the spot that calls most for some healing balm
Again the cheeks of Camilla received their fugitive roses My dearest mother she cried is not this enough—to be accused—suspected—and to fear—
She stammered and would have withdrawn her hands but Mrs Tyrold still holding them said To fear what speak out my best child open to us your whole heart—Where else will you find repositories so tender
Tears again flowed down the burning cheeks of Camilla and dropping her eyes Ah my mother she cried you will think me so frivolous—you will blush so for your daughter—if I own—if I dare confess—
Again she stopped terrified at the conjectures to which this opening might give birth but when further and fondly pressed by her mother she added It is not alone these unjust surmises—nor even Indianas unkind concurrence in them—but also—I have been afraid—I must have made a strange—a capricious—an ungrateful appearance in the eyes of Edgar Mandlebert
Here her voice dropt but presently recovering she rapidly continued I know it is very immaterial—and I am sensible how foolish it may sound—but I shall also think of it no more now—and therefore as I have told the whole—
She looked up conscience struck at these last words to see if they proved satisfactory she caught in the countenance of her mother an expression of deep commiseration which was followed by a thousand maternal caresses of unusual softness though unaccompanied by any words
Penetrated yet distressed she gratefully received them but rejoiced when at length Mr Tyrold rising said Go my love upstairs to your sister your mother else will never proceed with her business
She gladly ran off and soon by a concise narration satisfied Lavinia and then calmed her own troubled mind
Mr Tyrold now though evidently much affected himself strove to compose his wife Alas cried she do you not see what thus has touched me Do you not perceive that our lovely girl more just to his worth than its possessor has given her whole heart to Edgar Mandlebert
I perceived it through your emotion but I had not discovered it myself I grieve now that the probability of such an event had not struck me in time to have kept them apart for its prevention
I grieve for nothing cried she warmly but the infatuated blindness of that selflost young man What a wife would Camilla have made him in every stage of their united career And how unfortunately has she sympathised in my sentiments that he alone seemed worthy to replace the first and best protector she must relinquish when she quits this house What will he find in Indiana but a beautiful doll uninterested in his feelings unmoved by his excellencies and incapable of comprehending him if he speaks either of business or literature
Yet many wives of this description replied Mr Tyrold are more pleasing in the eyes of their husbands than women who are either better informed in intellect or more alive in sensation and it is not an uncommon idea amongst men that where both in temper and affairs there is least participation there is most repose But this is not the case with Edgar
No he has a nobler resemblance than this portrait would allow him a resemblance which made me hope from him a far higher style of choice He prepares himself however his own ample punishment for he has too much understanding not to sicken of mere personal allurements and too much generosity to be flattered or satisfied by mere passive intellectual inferiority Neither a mistress nor a slave can make him happy a companion is what he requires and for that in a very few months how vainly his secret soul may sigh and think of our Camilla
They then settled that it would be now essential to the peace of their child to keep her as much as possible from his sight and determined not to send her back to Cleves to apologize for the new plan but to take upon themselves that whole charge Her nature said Mrs Tyrold is so gay so prompt for happiness that I have little fear but in absence she will soon cease to dwell upon him Fear indeed I have but it is of a deeper evil than this early impression I fear for her future lot With whom can we trust her—She will not endure negligence and those she cannot respect she will soon despise What a prospect for her then with our present race of young men their frivolous fickleness nauseates whatever they can reach they have a weak shame of asserting or even listening to what is right and a shallow pride in professing what is wrong How must this ingenuous girl forget all she has yet seen heard or felt ere she can encounter wickedness or even weakness and disguise her abhorrence or contempt
My dear Georgiana let us never look forward to evil
Will it not be doubly hard to bear if it come upon us without preparation
I think not Terror shakes and apprehension depresses hope nerves as well as gladdens us Remember always I do not by hope mean presumption I mean simply a cheerful trust in heaven
I must always yield cried Mrs Tyrold to your superior wisdom and reflecting piety and if I cannot conquer my fears at least I will neither court nor indulge them
The thanks of a grateful husband repaid this compliance They sent for Camilla to acquaint her they would make her excuses at Cleves she gave a ready though melancholy consent and the virtue of her motives drew tears from her idolizing mother as she clasped her to her heart
They then set out together that Mr Tyrold might arrange this business with Sir Hugh of whom and of Eugenia Mrs Tyrold was to take leave
CHAPTER VIII
Modern Ideas of Duty
Camilla now felt more permanently revived because better satisfied with the rectitude of her conduct She could no longer be accused of interfering between Edgar and Indiana that affair would take its natural course and be it what it might while absent from both parties she concluded she should at least escape all censure
Peaceably therefore she returned to take possession of her usual apartment affectionately accompanied by her eldest sister
The form and the mind of Lavinia were in the most perfect harmony Her polished complexion was fair clear and transparent her features were of the extremest delicacy her eyes of the softest blue and her smile displayed internal serenity The unruffled sweetness of her disposition bore the same character of modest excellence Joy hope and prosperity sickness sorrow and disappointment assailed alike in vain the uniform gentleness of her temper yet though thus exempt from all natural turbulence either of pleasure or of pain the meekness of her composition degenerated not into insensibility it was open to all the feminine feelings of pity of sympathy and of tenderness
Thus copiously gifted with all her sexs softness her society would have contributed to restore Camilla to repose had they continued together without interruption but in a few minutes the room door was opened and Lionel rushing into the apartment called out How do do my girls how do do and shook them each by the hand with a swing that nearly brought them to the ground
Camilla always rejoiced at his sight but Lavinia gravely said I thought brother you had been at Dr Marchmonts
All in good time my dear I shall certainly visit the old gentleman before long
Did you not sleep there then last night
No child
Good God Lionel—if my mother—
My dear little Lavinia cried he chucking her under the chin I have a vast notion of making visits at my own time instead of my mammas
O Lionel and can you just now——
Come come interrupted he dont let us waste our precious minutes in old moralizing If I had not luckily been hard by I should not have known the coast was clear Pray where are they gone tantivying
To Cleves
To Cleves what a happy escape I was upon the point of going thither myself Camilla what is the matter with thee
Nothing—I am only thinking—pray when do you go to Oxford
Pho pho—what do you talk of Oxford for you are grown quite stupid girl I believe you have lived too long with Miss Margland Pray how does that dear creature do I am afraid she will grow melancholy from not seeing me so long Is she as pretty as she used to be I have some notion of sending her a suitor
O brother said Lavinia is it possible you can have such spirits
O hang it if one is not merry when one can what is the world good for besides I do assure you I fretted so consumed hard at first that for the life of me I can fret no longer
But why are you not at Dr Marchmonts
Because my dear you have no conception the pleasure those old doctors take in lecturing a youngster who is in any disgrace
Disgrace repeated Camilla
At all events said Lavinia I beseech you to be a little careful I would not have my poor mother find you here for the world
O as to that I defy her to desire the meeting less than I do But come lets talk of something else How go on the classics Is my old friend Dr Orkborne as chatty and amusing as ever
My dear Lionel said Camilla I am filled with apprehension and perplexity Why should my mother wish not to see you And why—and how is it possible you can wish not to see her
What dont you know it all
I know only that something must be wrong but how what or which way I have not heard
Has not Lavinia told you then
No answered Lavinia I could be in no haste to give her pain
You are a good girl enough But how came you hither Camilla and what is the reason you have not seen my mother yourself
Not seen her I have been with her this half hour
What and in all that time did not she tell you
She did not name you
Is it possible—Well shes a noble creature I wonder how she could ever have such a son as me And I am still less like my father than her I suppose I was changed in the cradle Will you countenance me young ladies if some villainous attorney or exciseman should by and by come to own me
Dear Lionel cried Camilla do explain to me what has happened You make me think it important and trifling twenty times in a minute
O a horrid business—Lavinia must tell it you Ill go away till she has done Dont despise me Camilla I am confounded sorry I promise you
He then hurried out of the room evidently feeling more emotion than he cared to display
Yet Lavinia had but just begun her relation when he abruptly returned Come I had better tell it you myself cried he for shell make such a dismal ditty of it that it wont be over this half year the sooner we have done with it the better it will only put you out of spirits
Then sitting down and taking her hand he began You must know I was in rather a bad scrape at Oxford last year—
Last year and you never told us of it before
O twas about something you would not understand so I shall not mention particulars now It is enough for you to know that two or three of us wanted a little cash—well so—in short I sent a letter—somewhat of a threatening sort—to poor old uncle Relvil—
O Lionel
O I did not sign it—it was only begging a little money which he can afford to spare very well and just telling him if he did not come to a place I mentioned he would have his brains blown out—
How horrible
Pho pho—he had only to send the money you know and then his brains might keep their place besides you cant suppose there was gunpowder in the words So I got this copied and took the proper measures for concealment and—would you believe it the poor old gull was fool enough actually to send the money where he was bid
Fie Lionel cried Lavinia do you call him a fool because you terrified him
Yes to be sure my dear and you both think him so too only you dont hold it pretty to say so Do you suppose if he had had half the wit of his sister he would have done it I believe in my conscience there was some odd mistake in their births and that my mother took away the brains of the man and left the womans for the noddle of my poor uncle
Fie fie brother said Lavinia again you know how sickly he has always been from his birth and how soon therefore he might be alarmed
Why yes Lavinia—I believe it was a very bad thing—and I would give half my little finger I had not done it But its over you know so what signifies making the worst of it
And did he not discover you
No I gave him particular orders in my letter not to attempt anything of that sort assuring him there were spies about him to watch his proceedings The good old ass took it all for gospel So there the matter dropt However as ill luck would have it about three months ago we wanted another sum—
And could you again—
Why my dear it was only taking a little of my own fortune beforehand for I am his heir so we all agreed it was merely robbing myself for we had several consultations about it and one of us is to be a lawyer
But you give me some pleasure here said Camilla for I had never heard that my uncle had made you his heir
No more have I neither my dear but I take it for granted Besides our little lawyer put it into my head Well we wrote again and told the poor old gentleman—for which I assure you I am heartily repentant—that if he did not send me double the sum in the same manner without delay his house was to be burnt to the ground the first night that he and all his family were asleep in bed—Now dont make faces and shruggings for I promise you I think already I deserve to be hanged for giving him the fright though I would not really have hurt him all the time for half his fortune And who could have guessed he would have bit so easily The money however came and we thought it all secure and agreed to get the same sum annually
Annually repeated Camilla with uplifted hands
Yes my dear You have no conception how convenient it would have been for our extra expenses But unluckily uncle grew worse and went abroad and then consulted with some crab of a friend and that friend with some demagogue of a magistrate and so all is blown—However we had managed it so cleverly it cost them near three months to find it out owing I must confess to poor uncles cowardice in not making his enquiries before the money was carried off and he himself over the seas and far away The other particulars Lavinia must give you for I have talked of it now till I have made myself quite sick Do tell me something diverting to drive it a little out of my head Have you seen any thing of my enchanting widow lately
No she does not desire to be seen by me She would not admit me
She is frankness itself, and does not pretend to care a fig for any of her own sex—O but Camilla I have wanted to ask you this great while if you think there is any truth in this rumour that Mandlebert intends to propose to Indiana
To propose I thought it had all long since been settled
Ay so the world says but I dont believe a word of it Do you think if that were the case he would not have owned it to me Theres nothing fixed yet depend upon it
Camilla struck amazed and delighted involuntarily embraced her brother though recollecting herself almost at the same moment she endeavoured to turn off the resistless impulse into taking leave and hurrying him away
Lionel who to want of solidity and penetration principally owed the errors of his conduct was easily put upon a wrong scent and assured her he would take care to be off in time But what cried he has carried them to Cleves Are they gone to tell tales Because I have lost one uncle by my own fault must I lose another by theirs
No answered Lavinia they have determined not to name you They have settled that my uncle Hugh shall never be told of the affair nor anybody else if they can help it except your sisters and Dr Marchmont
Well they are good souls cried he attempting to laugh though his eyes were glistening I wish I deserved them better I wish too it was not so dull to be good I can be merry and harmless here at the same time—and so I can at Cleves—but at Oxford—or in London—your merry blades there—I cant deny it my dear sisters—your merry blades there are but sad fellows Yet there is such fun such spirit such sport amongst them I cannot for my life keep out of their way Besides you have no conception young ladies what a bye word you become among them if they catch you flinching
I would not for the world say anything to pain you my dear brother cried Lavinia but yet I must hope that in future your first study will be to resist such dangerous examples and to drop such unworthy friends
If it is not to tell tales then for what else are they gone to Cleves just at this time
For my mother to take leave of Eugenia and my uncle before her journey
Journey Why whither is she going
Abroad
The deuce she is—And what for
To try to make your peace with her brother or at least to nurse him herself till he is tolerably recovered
Lionel slapped his hat over his eyes and saying This is too much—if I were a man I should shoot myself—rushed out of the room
The two sisters rapidly followed him and caught his arm before he could quit the house They earnestly besought him to return to compose himself and to promise he would commit no rash action
My dear sisters cried he I am worked just now only as I ought to be but I will give you any promise you please However though I have never listened to my father as I ought to have listened he has implanted in my mind a horror of suicide that will make me live my natural life be it as good for nothing as it may
He then suffered his sisters to lead him back to their room where he cast himself upon a chair in painful rumination upon his own unworthiness and his parents excellence but the tender soothings of Lavinia and Camilla who trembled lest his remorse should urge him to some act of violence soon drew him from reflections of which he hated the intrusion and he attended with complacency to their youthful security of perfect reconciliations and reestablished happiness
With reciprocal exultation the eyes of the sisters congratulated each other on having saved him from despair and seeing him now calm and they hoped safe they mutually though tacitly agreed to obtrude no further upon meditations that might be useful to him and remained silently by his side
For some minutes all were profoundly still Lionel then suddenly started up the sisters affrighted hastily arose at the same instant when stretching himself and yawning he called out Prythee Camilla what is become of that smug Mr Dubster
Speechless with amazement they looked earnestly in his face and feared he was raving
They were soon however undeceived the tide of penitence and sorrow was turned in his buoyant spirits and he was only restored to his natural volatile self
You used him most shabbily he continued and he was a very pretty fellow The next time I have nothing better to do Ill send him to you that you may make it up
This quick return of gaiety caused a sigh to Lavinia and much surprise to Camilla but neither of them could prevail with him to depart till Mr and Mrs Tyrold were every moment expected they then though with infinite difficulty procured his promise that he would go straight to Dr Marchmont according to an arrangement made for that purpose by Mrs Tyrold herself
Lavinia when he was gone related some circumstances of this affair which he had omitted Mr Relvil the elder brother of Mrs Tyrold was a country gentleman of some fortune but of weak parts and an invalid from his infancy He had suffered these incendiary letters to prey upon his repose without venturing to produce them to any one from a terror of the menaces hurled against him by the writer till at length he became so completely hypochondriac that his rest was utterly broken and to preserve his very existence he resolved upon visiting another climate
The day that he set out for Lisbon his destined harbour he delivered his anonymous letters to a friend to whom he left in charge to discover if possible their author
This discovery by the usual means of enquiries and rewards was soon made but the moment Mr Relvil learnt that the culprit was his nephew he wrote over to Mrs Tyrold a statement of the transaction declaring he should disinherit Lionel from every shilling of his estate His health was so much impaired he said by the disturbance this had given to his mind that he should be obliged to spend the ensuing year in Portugal and he even felt uncertain if he might ever return to his own country
Mrs Tyrold astonished and indignant severely questioned her son who covered with shame surprise and repentance confessed his guilt Shocked and grieved in the extreme she ordered him from her sight and wrote to Dr Marchmont to receive him She then settled with Mr Tyrold the plan of her journey and voyage hoping by so immediately following and herself nursing her incensed brother to soften his wrath and avert its final ill consequences
CHAPTER IX
A Few Embarrassments
Mr and Mrs Tyrold returned to Etherington somewhat relieved in their spirits though perplexed in their opinions They had heard from Sir Hugh that Edgar had decidedly disavowed any pretensions to Indiana and had voluntarily retreated from Cleves that his disavowal might risk no misconstruction either in the family or the neighbourhood
This insensibility to beauty the most exquisite wanted no advocate with Mrs Tyrold Once more she conceived some hope of what she wished and she determined upon seeing Edgar before her departure The displeasure she had nourished against him vanished and justice to his general worth with an affection nearly maternal to his person took again their wonted place in her bosom and made her deem herself unkind in having purposed to quit the kingdom without bidding him farewell
Mr Tyrold whom professional duty and native inclination alike made a man of peace was ever happy to second all conciliatory measures and the first to propose them where his voice had any chance of being heard He sent a note therefore to invite Edgar to call the next morning and Mrs Tyrold deferred her hour of setting off till noon
Her own natural and immediate impulse had been to carry Camilla with her abroad but when she considered that her sole errand was to nurse and appease an offended sick man whose chamber she meant not to quit till she returned to her family she gave up the pleasure she would herself have found in the scheme to her fears for the health and spirits of her darling child joined to the superior joy of leaving such a solace with her husband
Sir Hugh had heard the petition for postponing the further visit of Camilla almost with despondence but Mr Tyrold restored him completely to confidence with respect to his doubts concerning Dr Orkborne with whom he held a long and satisfactory conversation and his own benevolent heart received a sensible pleasure when upon examining Indiana with regard to Edgar he found her though piqued and pouting untouched either in affection or happiness
Early the next morning Edgar came Mrs Tyrold had taken measures for employing Camilla upstairs where she did not even hear that he entered the house
He was received with kindness and told of the sudden journey though not of its motives He heard of it with unfeigned concern and earnestly solicited to be the companion of the voyage if no better male protector were appointed
Mr Tyrold folded his arms around him at this grateful proposal while his wife animated off her guard warmly exclaimed—My dear excellent Edgar you are indeed the model the true son of your guardian
Sorry for what had escaped her from her internal reference to Lionel she looked anxiously to see if he comprehended her but the mantling blood which mounted quick into his cheeks while his eyes sought the ground soon told her there was another mode of affinity which at that moment had struck him
Willing to establish whether this idea were right she now considered how she might name Camilla but her husband who for no possible purpose could witness distress without seeking to alleviate it declined his kind offer and began a discourse upon the passage to Lisbon
This gave Edgar time to recover and in a few seconds something of moment seemed abruptly to occur to him and scarcely saying adieu he hurried to remount his horse
Mrs Tyrold was perplexed but she could take not steps towards an explanation without infringing the delicacy she felt due to her daughter she suffered him therefore to depart
She then proceeded with her preparations which entirely occupied her till the chaise was at the gate when as the little party their eyes and their hearts all full were taking a last farewell the parlour door was hastily opened and Dr Marchmont and Edgar entered the room
All were surprised but none so much as Camilla who forgetting in sudden emotion every thing but former kindness and intimacy delightedly exclaimed—Edgar O how happy my dearest mother—I was afraid you would go without seeing him
Edgar turned to her with a quickness that could only be exceeded by his pleasure her voice her manner her unlookedfor interest in his appearance penetrated to his very soul Is it possible he cried you could have the goodness to wish me this gratification At a moment such as this could you—— think of me he would have added but Dr Marchmont coming forward begged him to account for their intrusion
Almost overpowered by his own sudden emotion he could scarce recollect its motive himself while Camilla fearful and repentant that she had broken her deliberate and wellprincipled resolutions retreated to the window
Mr and Mrs Tyrold witnessed the involuntary movements which betrayed their mutual regard with the tenderest satisfaction and the complacency of their attention when Edgar advanced to them soon removed his embarrassment
He then briefly acquainted them that finding Mrs Tyrold would not accept him for her chevalier he had ridden hard to the parsonage of Cleves whence he hoped he had brought her one too unexceptionable for rejection
Dr Marchmont with great warmth then made a proffer of his services declaring he had long desired an opportunity to visit Portugal and protesting that besides the pleasure of complying with any wish of Mr Mandleberts it would give him the most serious happiness to shew his gratitude for the many kind offices he owed to Mr Tyrold and his high personal respect for his lady he should require but one day for his preparations and for securing the performance of the church duty at Cleves during his absence
Mr and Mrs Tyrold were equally struck by the goodness of Dr Marchmont and the attentive kindness of Edgar Mrs Tyrold nevertheless would immediately have declined the scheme but her husband interposed Her travelling he said with such a guard would be as conducive to his peace at home as to her safety abroad And with respect cried he to obligation I hold it as much a moral duty not to refuse receiving good offices as not to avoid administering them That species of independence which proudly flies all ties of gratitude is inimical to the social compact of civilized life which subsists but by reciprocity of services
Mrs Tyrold now opposed the scheme no longer and the chaise was ordered for the next day
Dr Marchmont hurried home to settle his affairs but Edgar begged a short conference with Mr Tyrold
Every maternal hope was now awake in Mrs Tyrold who concluded this request was to demand Camilla in marriage and her husband himself not without trepidation took Edgar into his study
But Edgar though his heart was again wholly Camillas had received a look from Dr Marchmont that guarded him from any immediate declaration He simply opened upon the late misconception at Cleves vindicated himself from any versatility of conduct and affirmed that both his attentions and his regard for Indiana had never been either more or less than they still continued All this was spoken with a plainness to which the integrity of his character gave a weight superior to any protestations
My dear Edgar said Mr Tyrold I am convinced of your probity The tenor of your life is its guarantee and any other defence is a degradation There is indeed no perfidy so unjustifiable as that which wins but to desert the affections of an innocent female It is still if possible more cowardly than it is cruel for the greater her worth and the more exquisite her feelings the stronger will be the impulse of her delicacy to suffer uncomplaining and the deluder of her esteem commonly confides for averting her reproach to the very sensibility through which he has ensnared her good opinion
No one said Edgar can more sincerely concur in this sentiment than myself and I trust there is no situation and no character that could prompt me to deviate in this point Here in particular my understanding must have been as defective as my morals to have betrayed me into such an enterprise
How do you mean
I beg pardon my dear sir but though I have a sort of family regard for Miss Lynmere and though I think her beauty is transcendent her heart I believe—— he hesitated
Do you think her heart invulnerable—
Why—no—not positively perhaps answered he embarrassed not positively invulnerable but certainly I do not think it composed of those finely subtle sensations which elude all vigilance and become imperceptibly the prey of every assailing sympathy for itself, therefore I believe it not in much danger and for others—I see not in it that magnetic attraction which charms away all caution beguiles all security enwraps the imagination and masters the reason—
The chain of thinking which from painting what he thought insensible in Indiana led him to describe what he felt to be resistless in Camilla made him finish the last sentence with an energy that surprised Mr Tyrold into a smile
You seem deeply he said to have studied the subject
But not under the guidance of Miss Lynmere he answered rising and colouring the moment he had spoken in the fear he had betrayed himself
I rejoice then the more replied Mr Tyrold calmly in her own slackness of susceptibility
Yes cried Edgar recovering and quietly replacing himself it is her own security and it is the security of all who surround her though to those indeed there was also another a still greater in the contrast which—— he stopt confused at his own meaning yet presently almost irresistibly added—Not that I think the utmost vivacity of sentiment nor all the charm of soul though eternally beaming in the eyes playing in every feature glowing in the complection and brightening every smile—— he stopt again overpowered with the consciousness of the picture he was portraying but Mr Tyrold continuing silent he was obliged though he scarce knew what he said to go on Nothing in short so selfishly are we formed—that nothing not even the loveliest of the lovely can be truly bewitching in which we do not hope or expect some participation—I believe I have not made myself very clear—However it is not material—I simply meant to explain my retreat from Cleves And indeed it is barbarous at a season such as this to detain you a moment from your family
He then hastily took leave
Mr Tyrold was sensibly touched by this scene He saw through a discourse so perplexed and a manner so confused that his daughter had made a forcible impression upon the heart of Mandlebert but could not comprehend why he seemed struggling to conceal it What had dropt from him appeared to imply a distrust of exciting mutual regard yet this after his own observations upon Camilla was inconceivable He regretted that at a period so critical she must part with her mother with whom again he now determined to consult
Edgar who hitherto had opened his whole heart upon every occasion to Mr Tyrold felt hurt and distressed at this first withholding of confidence It was however unavoidable in his present situation
He went back to the parlour to take leave once more of Mrs Tyrold but opening the door found Camilla there alone She was looking out of the window and had not heard his entrance
This was not a sight to still his perturbed spirits on the contrary the moment seemed to him so favourable that it irresistibly occurred to him to seize it for removing every doubt
Camilla who had not even missed her mother and sister from the room was contemplating the horse of Edgar and internally arraigning herself for the dangerous pleasure she had felt and manifested at the sight of his master
He gently shut the door and approaching her said Do I see again the same frank and amiable friend who in earliest days who always indeed till—
Camilla turning round startled to behold him so near and that no one else remained in the room blushed excessively and without hearing what he said shut the window yet opened it the same minute stammering out something but she herself knew not what concerning the weather
The gentlest thoughts crossed the mind of Edgar at this evident embarrassment and the most generous alacrity prompted him to hasten his purpose He drew a chair near her and in penetrating accents said Will you suffer me will you can you permit me to take the privilege of our long friendship and honestly to speak to you upon what has passed within these last few days at Cleves
She could not answer surprise doubt fear of self-deception and hope of some happy explanation all suddenly conspired to confound and to silence her
You cannot I think forget he soon resumed that you had condescended to put into my hands the management and decision of the new acquaintance you are anxious to form My memory at least will never be unfaithful to a testimony so grateful to me of your entire reliance upon the deep the unspeakable interest I have ever taken and ever must take in my invaluable guardian and in every branch of his respected and beloved family
Camilla now began to breathe This last expression though zealous in friendliness had nothing of appropriate partiality and in losing her hope she resumed her calmness
Edgar observed though he understood not the change but as he wished to satisfy his mind before he indulged his inclination he endeavoured not to be sorry to see her mistress of herself during the discussion He wished her but to answer him with openness she still however only listened while she rose and looked about the room for some work Edgar somewhat disconcerted waited for her again sitting down and after a few minutes spent in a useless search she drew a chair to a table at some distance
Gravely then following he stood opposite to her and after a little pause said I perceive you think I go too far you think that the intimacy of childhood and the attachment of adolescence should expire with the juvenile sports and intercourse which nourished them rather than ripen into solid friendship and permanent confidence
Do not say so cried she with emotion believe me unless you knew all that had passed and all my motives you should judge nothing of these last few days but think of me only whether well or ill as you thought of me a week ago
The most laboured and explicit defence could not more immediately have satisfied his mind than this speech Suspicion vanished trust and admiration took its place and once more drawing a chair by her side My dear Miss Camilla he cried forgive my having thus harped upon this subject I here promise you I will name it no more
And I cried she delighted promise you—she was going to add that she would give up Mrs Arlbery if he found reason to disapprove the acquaintance but the parlour door opened and Miss Margland stalked into the room
Sir Hugh was going to send a messenger to enquire how and when Mrs Tyrold had set out but Miss Margland from various motives of curiosity offered her services and came herself So totally however had both Edgar and Camilla been engrossed by each other that they had not heard the carriage drive up to the garden gate which with the door of the house being always open required neither knocker nor bell
A spectre could not more have startled or shocked Camilla She jumped up with an exclamation nearly amounting to a scream and involuntarily seated herself at the other end of the room
Edgar though not equally embarrassed was still more provoked but he rose and got her a chair and enquired after the health of Sir Hugh
He is very poorly indeed answered she with an austere air and no wonder
Is my uncle ill cried Camilla alarmed
Miss Margland deigned no reply
The rest of the family who had seen the carriage from the windows now entered the room and during the mutual enquiries and account which followed Edgar believing himself unobserved glided round to Camilla and in a low voice said The promise—I think I guess its gratifying import—I shall not I hope lose through this cruel intrusion
Camilla who saw no eyes but those of Miss Margland which were severely fastened upon her affected not to hear him and planted herself in the group out of his way
He anxiously waited for another opportunity to put in his claim but he waited in vain Camilla who from the entrance of Miss Margland had had the depressing feel of self-accusation sedulously avoided him and though he loitered till he was ashamed of remaining in the house at a period so busy Miss Margland by indications not to be mistaken shewed herself bent upon outstaying him he was obliged therefore to depart though no sooner was he gone than having nothing more to scrutinize she went also
But little doubt now remained with the watchful parents of the mutual attachment of Edgar and Camilla to which the only apparent obstacle seemed a diffidence on the part of Edgar with respect to her internal sympathy Pleased with the modesty of such a fear in so accomplished a young man Mr Tyrold protested that if the superior fortune were on the side of Camilla he would himself clear it up and point out the mistake His wife gloried in the virtuous delicacy of her daughter that so properly till it was called for concealed her tenderness from the object who so deservingly inspired it yet they agreed that though she could not at present meet Edgar too often she should be kept wholly ignorant of their wishes and expectations lest they should still be crushed by any unforeseen casualty and that meanwhile she should be allowed every safe and innocent recreation that might lighten her mind from its depression and restore her spirits to their native vivacity
Early the next morning Dr Marchmont came to Etherington and brought with him Lionel by the express direction of his father who never objected to admit the faulty to his presence his hopes of doing good were more potent from kindness than from severity from example than from precept yet he attempted not to conquer the averseness of Mrs Tyrold to an interview he knew it proceeded not from an inexorable nature but from a repugnance insurmountable to the sight of a beloved object in disgrace
Mrs Tyrold quitted her husband with the most cruel regret and her darling Camilla with the tenderest inquietude she affectionately embraced the unexceptionable Lavinia with whom she left a message for her brother which she strictly charged her to deliver without softening or omitting one word
And then attended by Dr Marchmont she set forward on her journey towards Falmouth whence a packet in a few days she was informed would sail for Lisbon
CHAPTER X
Modern Ideas of Life
Grieved at this separation Mr Tyrold retired to his study and his two daughters went to the apartment of Lionel to comfort him under the weight of his misconduct
They found him sincerely affected and repentant yet eager to hear that his mother was actually gone Ill as he felt himself to deserve such an exertion for his future welfare and poignant as were his shame and sorrow to have parted her from his excellent father he thought all evil preferable to encountering her eye or listening to her admonitions
Though unaffectedly beloved Mrs Tyrold was deeply feared by all her children Camilla alone excepted by Lionel from his horror of reproof by Lavinia from the timidity of her humility and by Eugenia from her high sense of parental superiority Camilla alone escaped the contagion for while too innocent too undesigning wilfully to excite displeasure she was too gay and too lighthearted to admit apprehension without cause
The gentle Lavinia knew not how to perform her painful task of delivering the message with which she was commissioned The sight of Lionel in dejection was as sad as it was new to her and she resolved in conjunction with Camilla to spare him till the next day when his feelings might be less acute They each sat down therefore to work silent and compassionate while he ejaculating blessings upon his parents and calling for just vengeance upon himself stroamed up and down the room biting his knuckles and now and then striking his forehead
This lasted about ten minutes and then suddenly advancing to his sisters and snatching a hand of each Come girls he cried now lets talk of other things
Too young to have developed the character of Lionel they were again as much astonished as they had been the preceding day but his defects though not originally of the heart were of a species that soon tend to harden it They had their rise in a total aversion to reflection a wish to distinguish himself from his retired and he thought unfashionable relations and an unfortunate coalition with some unprincipled young men who because flashy and gay could lead him to whatever they proposed Yet when mischief or misfortune ensued from his wanton faults he was always far more sorry than he thought it manly to own but as his actions were without judgment his repentance was without principle and he was ready for some new enterprise the moment the difficulties of an old one subsided
Camilla who from her affection to him read his character through the innocence of her own met his returning gaiety with a pleasure that was proportioned to her pain at his depression but Lavinia saw it with discomfort as the signal for executing her charge and with extreme reluctance gave him to understand she had a command to fulfil to him from his mother
The powers of conscience were again then instantly at work he felt what he had deserved he dreaded to hear what he had provoked and trembling and drawing back entreated her to wait one half hour before she entered upon the business
She chearfully consented and Camilla proposed extending the reprieve to the next day but not two minutes elapsed before Lionel protested he could not bear the suspense and urged an immediate communication
She can have said nothing cried he worse than I expect or than I merit Probe me then without delay She is acting by me like an angel and if she were to command me to turn anchoret I know I ought to obey her
With much hesitation Lavinia then began My mother says my dear Lionel the fraud you have practised—
The fraud what a horrid word why it was a mere trick a joke a frolic just to make an old hunks open his pursestrings for his natural heir I am astonished at my mother I really dont care if I dont hear another syllable
Well then my dear Lionel I will wait till you are calmer my mother I am sure did not mean to irritate but to convince
My mother continued he striding about the room makes no allowances She has no faults herself and for that reason she thinks nobody else should have any Besides how should she know what it is to be a young man and to want a little cash and not know how to get it
But I am sure said Lavinia if you wanted it for any proper purpose my father would have denied himself everything in order to supply you
Yes yes but suppose I want it for a purpose that is not proper how am I to get it then
Why then my dear Lionel surely you must be sensible you ought to go without it cried the sisters in a breath
Ay thats as you girls say that know nothing of the matter If a young man when he goes into the world was to make such a speech as that he would be pointed at Besides who must he live with You dont suppose he is to shut himself up with a few musty books sleeping over the fire under pretence of study all day long do you like young Melmond who knows no more of the world than one of you do
Indeed said Camilla he seemed to me an amiable and modest young man though very romantic
O I dare say he did I could have laid any wager of that Hes just a girls man just the very thing all sentiment and poetry and heroics But we my little dear we lads of spirit hold all that amazing cheap I assure you I would as soon be seen trying on a ladys cap at a glass as poring over a crazy old author when I could help it I warrant you think because one is at the university one must all be bookworms
Why what else do you go there for but to study
Every thing in the world my dear
But are there not sometimes young men who are scholars without being bookworms cried Camilla half colouring is not—is not Edgar Mandlebert—
O yes yes an odd thing of that sort happens now and then Mandlebert has spirit enough to carry it off pretty well without being ridiculous though he is as deep for his time as eer an old fellow of a college But then this is no rule for others You must not expect an Edgar Mandlebert at every turn
Ah no thought Camilla
But Edgar said Lavinia has had an extraordinary education as well as possessing extraordinary talents and goodness and you too my dear Lionel to fulfil what may be expected from you should look back to your father who was brought up at the same university and is now considered as one of the first men it has produced While he was respected by the learned for his application he was loved even by the indolent for his candour and kindness of heart And though his income as you know was so small he never ran in debt and by an exact but open œconomy escaped all imputation of meanness while by forbearing either to conceal or repine at his limited fortune he blunted even the raillery of the dissipated by frankly and good humouredly meeting it half way How often have I heard my dear mother tell you this
Yes but all this child is nothing to the purpose my father is no more like other men than if he had been born in another planet and my attempting to resemble him is as great a joke as if you were to dress up Miss Margland in Indianas flowers and feathers and then expect people to call her a beauty
We do not say you resemble my father now said Camilla archly but is there any reason why you should not try to do it by and by
O yes a little one nature nature my dear is in the way I was born a bit of a buck I have no manner of natural taste for study and poring and expounding and blackletter work I am a light airy spark at your service not quite so wise as I am merry—but let that pass My father you know is firm as a rock He minds neither wind nor weather nor fleerer nor sneerer but this firmness look ye he has kept all to himself not a whit of it do I inherit every wind that blows veers me about and makes me look some new way
Soon after gathering courage from curiosity he desired to hear the message at once
Lavinia unwillingly complying then repeated The fraud which you have practised my mother says whether from wanton folly to give pain or from rapacious discontent to gain money she will leave without comment satisfied that if you have any heart at all its effects must bring its remorse since it has dangerously encreased the infirmities of your uncle driven him to a foreign land and forced your mother to forsake her home and family in his pursuit unless she were willing to see you punished by the entire disinheritance with which you are threatened But——
O no more no more I am ready to shoot myself already My dear excellent mother what do I not owe you I had never seen never thought of the business in this solemn way before I meant nothing at first but a silly joke and all this mischief has followed unaccountably I assure you I had no notion at the beginning he would have minded the letter and afterwards Jack Whiston persuaded me the money was as good as my own and that it was nothing but a little cribbing from myself I will never trust him again I see the whole now in its true and atrocious colours—I will devote myself in future to make all the amends in my power to my dear incomparable mother
The sisters affectionately encouraged this idea which produced near a quarter of an hours serious thinking and penitence
He then begged to hear the rest and Lavinia continued
But since you are readmitted said my mother to Etherington by the clemency of your forbearing father she charges you to remember you can only repay his goodness by an application the most intense to those studies you have hitherto neglected and of which your neglect has been the cause of all your errors by committing to idle amusements the time that innocently as well as profitably ought to have been dedicated to the attainment of knowledge. She charges you also to ask yourself since during the vacation your father himself is your tutor upon what pretext you can justify wasting his valuable time however little you may respect your own—Finally—
I never wasted his time I never desired to have any instruction in the vacations Tis the most deuced thing in life to be studying so hard incessantly The waste of time is all his own affair—his own choice—not mine I assure you Go on however
Finally she adjures you to consider that if you still persevere to consume your time in wilful negligence to bury all thought in idle gaiety and to act without either reflection or principle the career of faults which begins but in unthinking folly will terminate in shame in guilt and in ruin And though such a declension of all good must involve your family in your affliction your disgrace she bids me say will ultimately fall but where it ought since your own want of personal sensibility to the horror of your conduct will neither harden nor blind any human being besides yourself This is all
And enough too cried he reddening I am a very wretch—I believe that—though I am sure I cant tell how for I never intend any harm never think never dream of hurting any mortal But as to study—I must own to you I hate it most deucedly Anything else—if my mother had but exacted any thing else—with what joy I would have shewn my obedience—If she had ordered me to be horseponded I do protest to you I would not have demurred
How always you run into the ridiculous cried Camilla
I was never so serious in my life not that I should like to be horseponded in the least though I would submit to it for a punishment and out of duty but then when it was done it would be over now the deuce of study is there is no end of it And it does so little for one one can go through life so well without it There is not above here and there an old codger that asks one a question that can bring it into any play And then a turn upon ones heel or looking at ones watch or wondering at ones short memory or happening to forget just that one single passage carries off the whole in two minutes as completely as if one had been working ones whole life to get ready for the assault And pray now tell me how can it be worth ones best days ones gayest hours the very flower of ones life—all to be sacrificed to plodding over musty grammars and lexicons merely to cut a figure just for about two minutes once or twice in a year
The sisters brought up with an early reverence for learning as forming a distinguished part of the accomplishments of their father could not subscribe to this argument But they laughed and that was ever sufficient for Lionel who though sincerely in private he loved and honoured his father never bestowed upon him one voluntary moment that frolic or folly invited elsewhere
Lavinia and Camilla perfectly relieved now from all fears for their brother repaired to the study of their father anxious to endeavour to chear him and to accelerate a meeting and reconciliation for Lionel but they found him desirous to be alone though kindly and unsolicited he promised to admit his son before dinner
Lionel heard this with a just awe but gave it no time for deep impression It was still very early and he could settle himself to nothing during the hours yet to pass before the interview He persuaded his sisters therefore to walk out with him to while away at once expectation and retrospection
CHAPTER XI
Modern Notions of Penitence
They set out with no other plan than to take a three hours stroll Lionel led the way and they journeyed through various pleasant lanes and meadows till about three miles distance from Etherington upon ascending a beautiful little hill they espied fifty yards off the Grove and a party of company sauntering round its grounds
He immediately proposed making a visit to Mrs Arlbery but Lavinia declined presenting herself to a lady who was unknown to her mother and Camilla impressed with the promise she had intended for Edgar which she was sure though unpronounced he had comprehended dissented also from the motion
He then said he would go alone for his spirits were so low from vexation and regret that they wanted recruit and he would return to them by the time they would be sufficiently rested to walk home
To this they agreed and amused themselves with watching to see him join the group in which however they were no sooner gratified than to their great confusion they perceived that he pointed them out and that all eyes were immediately directed towards the hill
Vexed and astonished at his quick passing penitence they hastened down the declivity and ran on till a lane with an high hedge on each side sheltered them from view
But Lionel soon pursuing them said he brought the indisputable orders of his invincible widow to convoy them to the mansion She never she had owned admitted formal visitors but whatever was abrupt and out of the way won her heart
To the prudent Lavinia this invitation was by no means alluring Mrs Tyrold from keeping no carriage visited but little and the Grove was not included in her small circle Lavinia therefore though she knew not how to be peremptory was steady in refusal and Camilla who would naturally with pleasure have yielded had a stronger motive for firmness than any with which she was gifted by discretion in her wish to oblige Mandlebert But Lionel would listen to neither of them and when he found his insistance insufficient seized Lavinia by one arm and Camilla by the other and dragged them up the hill in defiance of their entreaties and in full view of the party He then left the more pleading though less resisting Lavinia alone but pulled Camilla down by the opposite side with a velocity that though meant but to bring her to the verge of a small rivulet forced her into the midst of it so rapidly that he could not himself at last stop and wetted her so completely that she could with difficulty when she got across it walk on
The violent spirits of Lionel always carried him beyond his own intentions he was now really sorry for what he had done and Lavinia who had quietly followed was uneasy from the fear of some ill consequence to her sister
Mrs Arlbery who had seen the transaction came forth now herself to invite them all into her house and offer a fire and dry clothing to Camilla not sparing however her wellmerited raillery at the awkward exploit of young Tyrold
Camilla ashamed to be thus seen would have hidden herself behind her sister and retreated but even Lavinia now fearing for her health joined in the request and she was obliged to enter the house
Mrs Arlbery took her upstairs to her own apartment and supplied her immediately with a complete change of apparel protesting that Lionel should be punished for his frolic by a solitary walk to Etherington to announce that she would keep his two sisters for the day
Opposition was vain she was gay good humoured and pleasant but she would not be denied She meant not however to inflict the serious penalty which the face of Lionel proclaimed him to be suffering when he prepared to depart and the sisters who read in it his dread of meeting Mr Tyrold alone in the present circumstances of his affairs conferred together and agreed that Lavinia should accompany him both to intercede for returning favour from his father and to explain the accident of Camillas staying at the Grove Mrs Arlbery meanwhile promised to restore her young guest safe at night in her own carriage
Notwithstanding the pleasure with which Camilla in any other situation would have renewed this acquaintance was now changed into reluctance she was far from insensible to the flattering kindness with which Mrs Arlbery received and entertained her nor to the frankness with which she confessed that her invisibility the other morning had resulted solely from pique that the visit had not been made sooner
Camilla would have attempted some apology for the delay but she assured her apologies were what she neither took nor gave and then laughingly added—We will try one another to day and if we find it wont do—we will shake hands and part That you must know is my mode and is it not vastly better than keeping up an acquaintance that proves dull merely because it has been begun
She then ordered away all her visitors without the smallest ceremony telling them however they might come back in the evening only desiring they would not be early Camilla stared but they all submitted as to a thing of course
You are not used to my way I perceive cried she smiling yet I can nevertheless assure you you can do nothing so much for your happiness as to adopt it You are made a slave in a moment by the world if you dont begin life by defying it Take your own way follow your own humour and you and the world will both go on just as well as if you ask its will and pleasure for everything you do and want and think
She then expressed herself delighted with Lionel for bringing them together by this short cut which abolished a world of formalities not more customary than fatiguing I pass I know continued she for a mere creature of whim but believe me there is no small touch of philosophy in the composition of my vagaries Extremes you know have a mighty knack of meeting Thus I like the sage though not with sagelike motives save time that must otherwise be wasted brave rules that would murder common sense and when I have made people stare turn another way that I may laugh
She then in a graver strain and in a manner that proved the laws of politeness all her own where she chose for any particular purpose or inclination to exert them hoped this profession of her faith would plead her excuse that she had thus incongruously made her fair guest a second time enter her house before her first visit was acknowledged and enquired whether it were to be returned to Etherington or at Cleves
Camilla answered she was now at home on account of her mothers being obliged to make a voyage to Lisbon
Mrs Arlbery said she would certainly then wait upon her at Etherington and very civilly regretted having no acquaintance with Mrs Tyrold archly however adding As we have no where met I could not seek her at her own house without running too great a risk for then whether I had liked her or not I must have received her you know into mine So you see I am not quite without prudence whatever the dear world says to the contrary
She then spoke of the ball public breakfast and raffle chatting both upon persons and things with an easy gaiety and sprightly negligence extremely amusing to Camilla and which soon in despite of the unwillingness with which she had entered her house brought back her original propensity to make the acquaintance and left no regret for what Lionel had done except what rested upon the repugnance of Edgar to his intercourse As he could not however reproach what was begun without her concurrence he would see she hoped like herself that common civility henceforward would exact its continuance
In proportion as her pleasure from this accidental commerce was awakened and her early partiality revived her own spirits reanimated and in the course of the many hours they now spent completely together she was set so entirely at her ease by the good humour of Mrs Arlbery that she lost all fear of her wit She found it rather playful than satirical rather seeking to amuse than to disconcert and though sometimes from the resistless pleasure of uttering a bon mot she thought more of its brilliancy than of the pain it might inflict this happened but rarely and was more commonly succeeded by regret than by triumph
Camilla soon observed she had personally nothing to apprehend peculiar partiality supplying the place of general delicacy in shielding her from every shaft that even pleasantry could render poignant The embarrassment therefore which in ingenuous youth checks the attempt to please by fear of failure or shame of exertion gave way to natural spirits which gaily rising from entertainment received restored her vivacity and gradually though unconsciously enabled her to do justice to her own abilities by unaffectedly calling forth the mingled sweetness and intelligence of her character and Mrs Arlbery charmed with all she observed and flattered by all she inspired felt such satisfaction in her evident conquest that before the têteàtête was closed their admiration was become nearly mutual
When the evening party was announced they both heard with surprise that the day was so far advanced They can wait however said Mrs Arlbery for I know they have nothing to do
She then invited Camilla to return to her the next day for a week
Camilla felt well disposed to comply hoping soon to reason from Edgar his prejudice against a connection that afforded her such singular pleasure but to leave her father at this period was far from every wish She excused herself therefore saying she had still six weeks due to her uncle at Cleves before any other engagement could take place
Well then when you quit your home for Sir Hugh will you beg off a few days from him and set them down to my account
If my uncle pleases—
If he pleases repeated she laughing pray never give that If into his decision you only put contradiction into peoples heads by asking what pleases them Say at once My good uncle Mrs Arlbery has invited me to indulge her with a few days at the Grove so tomorrow I shall go to her Will you promise me this
Dear madam no my uncle would think me mad
And suppose he should A little alarm now and then keeps life from stagnation They call me mad I know sometimes wild flighty and what not yet you see how harmless I am though I afford food for such notable commentary
But can you really like such things should be said of you
I adore the frankness of that question why n—o—I rather think I dont But Im not sure However to prevent their minding me I must mind them And its vastly more irksome to give up ones own way than to hear a few impertinent remarks And as to the world depend upon it my dear Miss Tyrold the more you see of it the less you will care for it
She then said she would leave her to reinvest herself in her own attire and go downstairs to see what the poor simple souls who had had no more wit than to come back thus at her call had found to do with themselves
Camilla having only her common morning dress and even that utterly spoilt begged that her appearance might be dispensed with but Mrs Arlbery exclaiming Why there are only men you dont mind men I hope ashamed she promised to get ready yet she had not sufficient courage to descend till her gay hostess came back and accompanied her to the drawing room
CHAPTER XII
Airs and Graces
Upon entering the room Camilla saw again the Officers who had been there in the morning and who were now joined by Sir Sedley Clarendel She was met at the door by Major Cerwood who seemed waiting for her appearance and who made her his compliments with an air that studiously proclaimed his devotion She seated herself by the side of Mrs Arlbery to look on at a game of chess played by Sir Sedley and General Kinsale
Clarendel said Mrs Arlbery you have not the least in the world the air of knowing what you are about
Pardon me maam said the General he has been at least half an hour contemplating this very move—for which as you see I now checkmate him Pray Sir Sedley how came you at last to do no better
Thinking of other things my dear General Tis impossible in the extreme to keep ones faculties pinioned down to the abstruse vagaries of this brainbesieging game My head would be deranged past redress if I did not allow it to visit the four quarters of the globe once at least between every move
You do not play so slow then from deliberating upon your chances but from forgetting them
Defined my dear General to scrupulosity Those exquisite little moments we steal from any given occupation for the pleasure of speculating in secret upon something wholly foreign to it are resistless to deliciousness
I entreat and command you then cried Mrs Arlbery to make your speculations public Nothing will more amuse me than to have the least intimation of the subjects of your reveries
My dear Mrs Arlbery your demand is the very quintessence of impossibility Tell the subject of a reverie know you not it wafts one at once out of the world and the worlds powers of expression while all it substitutes is as evanescent as it is delectable To attempt the least description would be a presumption of the first monstrousness
O never heed that presumption will not precisely be a novelty to you answer me therefore my dear Clarendel without all this conceit You know I hate procrastination and procrastinators still worse
Softly dearest madam softly There is nothing in nature so horribly shocking to me as the least hurry My poor nerves seek repose after any turbulent words or jarring sounds with the same craving for rest that my body experiences after the jolts and concussions of a long winded chase By the way does anybody want a good hunter I have the first perhaps in Europe but I would sell it a surprising bargain for I am excruciatingly tired of it
All the gentlemen grouped round him to hear further particulars except Mr Macdersey the young Ensign who had so unguardedly exposed himself at the Northwick ball and who now approaching Camilla fervently exclaimed How happy I should have been madam if I had had the good fortune to see you meet with that accident this morning instead of being looking another way I might then have had the pleasure to assist you And O how much more if it had been your divine cousin I hope that fair angel is in perfect health O what a beautiful creature she is her outside is the completest diamond I ever saw and if her inside is the same which I dare say it is by her smiles and delicate dimples she must be a paragon upon earth
There is at least something very inartificial in your praise said General Kinsale when you make your panegyric of an absent lady to a present one
O General there is not a lady living can bear any comparison with her I have never had her out of my thoughts from the first darling moment that ever I saw her which has made me the most miserable of men ever since Her eyes so beautiful her mouth so divine her nose so heavenly—
And how cried Sir Sedley is the tip of her chin
No joking sir said the Ensign reddening she is a piece of perfection not to be laughed at she has never had her fellow upon the face of the earth and she never will have it while the earth holds upon account of there being no such person above ground
And pray cried Sir Sedley carelessly how can you be sure of that
How why by being certain answered the inflamed admirer for though I have been looking out for pretty women from morning to night ever since I was conscious of the right use of my eyes I never yet saw her parallel
A servant was now bringing in the tea but his lady ordered him to set it down in the next room whence the gentlemen should fetch it as it was wanted
Major Cerwood took in charge all attendance upon Camilla but he was not therefore exempt from the assiduities required by Mrs Arlbery for whom the homage of the General the Colonel and the Ensign were insufficient and who had a score more been present would have found occupation for them all Sir Sedley alone was excepted from her commands for knowing they would be issued to him in vain she contented herself with only interchanging glances of triumph with him at the submission of every vassal but himself
Heavens cried she to Colonel Andover who had hastened to present her the first cup you surely think I have nerves for a public orator If I should taste but one drop of this tea I might envy the repose of the next man who robs on the highway Major Cerwood will you try if you can do any better for me
The Major obeyed but not with more success What in the world have you brought me cried she Is it tea It looks prodigiously as if just imported out of the slop bason For pity sake Macdersey arise and give me your help you will at least never bring me such maudlin stuff as this Even your tea will have some character it will be very good or very bad very hot or very cold very strong or very weak for you are always in flames of fire or flakes of snow
You do me justice maam there is nothing upon the face of the earth so insipid as a medium Give me love or hate a friend that will go to jail for me or an enemy that will run me through the body Riches to chuck guineas about like halfpence or poverty to beg in a ditch Liberty wild as the four winds or an oar to work in a galley Misery to tear my heart into an hundred thousand millions of atoms or joy to make my soul dance into my brain Every thing has some gratification except a medium Tis a poor little soul that is satisfied between happiness and despair
He then flew to bring her a dish of tea
My dear Macdersey cried she in receiving it this is according to your system indeed for tis a compound of strong and rich and sweet to cloy an alderman making altogether so luscious a syrup that our spring would be exhausted before I could slake my thirst if I should taste it only a second time Do dear General see if it is not possible to get me some beverage that I can swallow
The youngest man present was not more active than the General in this service but Mrs Arlbery casting herself despondingly back the moment she had tasted what he brought her exclaimed Why this is worst of all If you can do no better for me General than this tell me at least for mercys sake when some other regiment will be quartered here
What a cruelty said the Major looking with a sigh towards Camilla to remind your unhappy prey they are but birds of passage
O all the better Major If you understand your own interest you will be as eager to break up your quarters as I can be to see your successors march into them I have now heard all your compliments and you have heard all my repartees both sides therefore want new auditors A great many things I have said to you will do vastly well again for a new corps and to do you justice some few things you have said yourselves may do again in a new county
Then addressing Camilla she proposed though without moving that they should converse with one another, and leave the men to take care of themselves And excessively they will be obliged to me she continued without lowering her voice for giving this little holiday to their poor brains for I assure you they have not known what to say this half hour Indeed since the first fortnight they were quartered here they have not upon an average said above one new thing in three days But ones obliged to take up with Officers in the country because theres almost nothing else Can you recommend me any agreeable new people
O no maam I have hardly any acquaintance except immediately round the rectory but fortunately my own family is so large that I have never been distressed for society
O ay true your own family begin with that do pray give me a little history of your own family
I have no history maam to give for my fathers retired life——
O I have seen your father and I have heard him preach and I like him very much Theres something in him theres no turning into ridicule
Camilla though surprised was delighted by such a testimony to the respectability of her father and with more courage said—And I am sure if you knew my mother you would allow her the same exemption
So I hear therefore we wont talk of them Its a delightful thing to think of perfection but its vastly more amusing to talk of errors and absurdities To begin with your eldest sister then—but no she seems in just the same predicament as your father and mother so well let her rest too
Indeed she is she is as faultless——
O not a word more then she wont do for me at all But pray is there not a single soul in all the round of your large family that can afford a body a little innocent diversion
Ah madam said Camilla shaking her head I fear on the contrary if they came under your examination there is not one in whom you would not discern some foible
I should not like them at all the worse for that for between ourselves my dear Miss Tyrold I am half afraid they might find a foible or two in return in me so you must not be angry if I beg the favour of you to indulge me with a few of their defects
Indulge you
Yes for when so many of a family are perfect if you cant find me one or two that have a little speck of mortality you must not wonder if I take flight at your very name In charity therefore if you would not drop my acquaintance tell me their vulnerable parts
Camilla laughed at this ridiculous reasoning but would not enter into its consequences
Well then if you will not assist me dont take it ill that I assist myself In the first place theres your brother I dont ask you to tell me any thing of him I have seen him and I confess to you he does not put me into utter despair he does not alarm me into flying all his race
Camilla tried vainly to look grave
I have seen another too your cousin I think Miss Lynmere thats engaged to young Mandlebert
Camilla now tried as vainly to look gay
Shes prodigiously pretty Pray is not she a great fool
Maam
I beg your pardon but I dont suppose you are responsible for the intellects of all your generation However shell do vastly well you need not be uneasy for her A face like that will take very good care of itself. I am glad she is engaged for your sake though I am sorry for Mandlebert that is if as his class of countenance generally predicts he marries with any notion of expecting to be happy
But why maam cried Camilla checking a sigh are you glad for my sake
Because there are two reasons why she would be wonderfully in your way she is not only prettier than you but sillier
And would both those reasons cried Camilla again laughing make against me
O intolerably with the men They are always enchanted with something that is both pretty and silly because they can so easily please and so soon disconcert it and when they have made the little blooming fools blush and look down they feel nobly superior and pride themselves in victory Dear creatures I delight in their taste for it brings them a plentiful harvest of repentance when it is their connubial criterion the pretty flies off and the silly remains and a man then has a choice companion for life left on his hands
The young Ensign here could no longer be silent I am sure and certain cried he warmly Miss Lynmere is incapable to be a fool and when she marries if her husband thinks her so its only a sign hes a blockhead himself
Hell be exactly of your opinion for the first month or two answered Mrs Arlbery or even if he is not hell like her just as well A man looks enchanted while his beautiful young bride talks nonsense it comes so prettily from her ruby lips and she blushes and dimples with such lovely attraction while she utters it he casts his eyes around him with conscious elation to see her admirers and his enviers but he has amply his turn for looking like a fool himself when youth and beauty take flight and when his ugly old wife exposes her ignorance or folly at every word
The contrast of beginning and end said the General is almost always melancholy But how rarely does any man—nay I had nearly said or any woman—think a moment of the time to come or of any time but the present day in marrying
Except with respect to fortune cried Mrs Arlbery and there methinks you men at least are commonly sufficiently provident I dont think reflection is generally what you want in that point
As to reflection exclaimed Mr Macdersey tis the thing in the world I look upon to be the meanest a man capable of reflection where a beautiful young creature is in question can have no soul nor vitals For my part tis my only misfortune that I cannot get at that lovely girl to ask her for her private opinion of me at once that I might either get a licence tomorrow or drive her out of my head before sleep overtakes me another night
Your passions my good Macdersey said Mrs Arlbery considering their violence seem tolerably obedient Can you really be so fond or so forgetful at such short warning
Yes but its with a pain that breaks my heart every time
You contrive however to get it pretty soon mended
That madam is a power that has come upon me by degrees I have paid dear enough for it—nobody ever found it harder than I did at the beginning for the first two or three times I took my disappointments so to heart that I should have been bound for ever to any friend that would have had the good nature to blow my brains out
But now you are so much in the habit of experiencing these little failures that they pass on as things of course
No madam you injure me and in the tenderest point for as long as I have the least hope my passions as violent as ever but you would not be so unreasonable as to have a man love on when it can answer no end Its no better than making him unhappy for a joke Theres no sense in such a thing
By the way my dear Miss Tyrold and apropos to this Miss Lynmere said Mrs Arlbery do tell me something about Mr Mandlebert—what is he—what does he do always amongst you
He—he— cried Camilla stammering he was a ward of my fathers—
O I dont mean all that but what is his style—his class—is he agreeable
I believe—he is generally thought so
If he is do pray then draw him into my society for I am terribly in want of recruits These poor gentlemen you see here are very good sort of men but they have a trick of sleeping with their eyes wide open and fancy all the time they are awake and indeed I find it hard to persuade them to the contrary though I often ask them for their dreams By the way cant you contrive some or other amongst you to make the room a little cooler
Shall I open this window said the Major
Nay nay dont ask me I had rather bear six times the heat than give my own directions nothing in the world fatigues me so much as telling stupid people how to set about things Colonel dont you see I have no fan
Ill fetch it directly—have you left it in the diningparlour
Do you really think I would not send a footman at once if I must perplex myself with all that recollection My dear Miss Tyrold did you ever see any poor people that pretended at all to walk about and mingle with the rest of the world like living creatures so completely lethargic—tis really quite melancholy I am sure you have good nature enough to pity them It requires my utmost ingenuity to keep them in any employment and if I left them to themselves they would stand before the fire all the winter and lounge upon sofas all the summer And that indolence of body so entirely unnerves the mind, that they find as little to say as to do Upon the whole tis really a paltry race the men of the present times However as we have got no better and as the women are worse I do all I can to make them less insufferable to me
And do you really think the women are worse cried Camilla
Not in themselves, my dear but worse to me because I cannot possibly take the same liberties with them Macdersey I wish I had my salts
It shall be the happiness of my life to find them be they hid where they may only tell me where I may have the pleasure to go and look for them
Nay thats your affair
Why then if they are to be found from the garret to the cellar be sure I am a dead man if I do not bring them you
This mode of displaying airs and graces was so perfectly new to Camilla that the commands issued and the obedience paid were equally amusing to her Brought up herself to be contented with whatever came in her way in preference either to giving trouble or finding fault the ridiculous yet playful wilfulness with which she saw Mrs Arlbery send every one upon her errands yet object to what every one performed presented to her a scene of such whimsical gaiety that her concern at the accident which had made her innocently violate her intended engagement with Edgar was completely changed into pleasure that thus without any possible self blame an acquaintance she had so earnestly desired was even by necessity established and she returned home at night with spirits all revived and eloquent in praise of her new favourite
CHAPTER XIII
Attic Adventures
Mr Tyrold according to the system of recreation which he had settled with his wife saw with satisfaction the pleasure with which Camilla began this new acquaintance in the hope it would help to support her spirits during the interval of suspense with regard to the purposes of Mandlebert Mrs Arlbery was unknown to him except by general fame which told him she was a woman of reputation as well as fashion and that though her manners were lively her heart was friendly and her hand ever open to charity
Upon admitting Lionel again to his presence he spoke forcibly though with brevity upon the culpability of his conduct What he had done he said let him colour it to himself with what levity he might was not only a robbery but a robbery of the most atrocious and unjustifiable class adding terror to violation of property and playing upon the susceptibility of the weakness and infirmities which he ought to have been the first to have sheltered and sheathed Had the action contained no purpose but a frolic even then the situation of the object on whom it fell rendered it inhuman but as its aim and end was to obtain money it was dishonourable to his character and criminal by the laws of his country Yet shudder no more continued he young man at the justice to which they make you amenable than at having deserved though you escape it From this day however I will name it no more Feeble must be all I could utter compared with what the least reflection must make you feel Your uncle in a broken state of health is sent abroad your mother though too justly incensed to see you sacrifices her happiness to serve you
Lionel for a few hours was in despair after this harangue but as they passed away he strove to drive it from his mind persuading himself it was useless to dwell upon what was irretrievable
Mrs Arlbery the following day made her visit at Etherington and invited the two sisters to a breakfast she was to give the next morning Mr Tyrold who with surprize and concern at a coldness so dilatory found a second day wearing away without a visit from Mandlebert gladly consented to allow of an amusement that might shake from Camilla the pensiveness into which at times he saw her falling
Mrs Arlbery had declared she hated ceremony in the summer guarded therefore by Lionel the sisters walked to the Grove From the little hill they had again to pass they observed a group of company upon the leads of her house which were flat and balustraded round and when they presented themselves at the door they were met by Major Cerwood who conducted them to the scene of business
It was the end of July and the weather was sultry but though the height of the place upon which the present party was collected gave some freshness to the air the heat reflected from the lead would have been nearly intolerable had it not been obviated by an awning and by matts in the part where seats and refreshments were arranged French horns and clarinets were played during the repast
This little entertainment had for motive a young ladys quitting her boarding school Miss Dennel a niece by marriage of Mrs Arlbery who at the age of fourteen came to preside at the house and table of her father had begged to be felicitated by her aunt upon the joyful occasion with a ball but Mrs Arlbery declared she never gave any entertainments in which she did not expect to play the principal part herself and that balls and concerts were therefore excluded from her list of home diversions It was vastly well to see others shine superior she said elsewhere but she could not be so accommodating as to perform Nobody under her own roof She offered her however a breakfast with full choice of its cakes and refreshments which with leave to fix upon the spot where it should be given was all the youthful pleader could obtain
The Etherington trio met with a reception the most polite and Camilla was distinguished by marks of peculiar favour Few guests were added to the party she had met there before except the young lady who was its present foundress and whose voice she recollected to have heard in the enquiries which had reached her ear from within the paddock
Miss Dennel was a pretty blooming tall girl but as childish in intellect as in experience; though selfpersuaded she was a woman in both since she was called from school to sit at the head of her fathers table
Camilla required nothing further for entertainment than to listen to her new friend Lavinia though more amazed than amused always modestly hung back as a mere looker on and the company in general made their diversion from viewing through various glasses the seats of the neighbouring gentlemen and reviewing with yet more scrutiny their characters and circumstances But Lionel ever restless seized the opportunity to patrol the attic regions of the house where meeting with a capacious lumber room he returned to assure the whole party it would make an admirable theatre and to ask who would come forth to spout with him
Mr Macdersey said he did not know one word of any part but he could never refuse anything that might contribute to the companys pleasure
Away they sped together and in a few minutes reversed the face of everything Old sofas bedsteads and trunks large family chests deal boxes and hampers carpets and curtains rolled up for the summer tables with two legs and chairs without bottoms were truckled from the middle to one end of the room and arranged to form a semicircle with seats in front for a pit Carpets were then uncovered and untied to be spread for the stage and curtains with as little mercy were unfurled and hung up to make a scene
They then applied to Miss Dennel who had followed to peep at what they were about and asked if she thought the audience might be admitted
She declared she had never seen any place so neat and elegant in her life
Such an opinion could not but be decisive and they prepared to reascend when the sight of a small door near the entrance of the large apartment excited the ever ready curiosity of Lionel who though the key was on the outside contrived to turn it wrong but while endeavouring to rectify by force what he had spoilt by aukwardness a sudden noise from within startled them all and occasioned quick and reiterated screams from Miss Dennel who with the utmost velocity burst back upon the company on the leads calling out O Lord how glad I am Im coming back alive Mr Macdersey and young Mr Tyrold are very likely killed for theyve just found I dont know how many robbers shut up in a dark closet
The gentlemen waited for no explanation to this unintelligible story but hastened to the spot and Mrs Arlbery ordered all the servants who were in waiting to follow and assist
Miss Dennel then entreated to have the trap door through which they ascended from a small staircase to the leads double locked till the gentlemen should declare upon their honours that the thieves were all dead
Mrs Arlbery would not listen to this but waited with Lavinia and Camilla the event
The gentlemen meanwhile reached the scene of action at the moment when Macdersey striking first his foot and then his whole person against the door had forced it open with such sudden violence that he fell over a pail of water into the adjoining room
The servants arriving at the same time announced that this was merely a closet for mops brooms and pails belonging to the housemaid and it appeared upon examination that the noise from within had simply been produced by the falling down of a broom occasioned by their shaking the door in endeavouring to force the lock
The Ensign wetted or splashed all over was in a fury and turning to Lionel who laughed vociferously whilst the rest of the gentlemen were scarce less moderate and the servants joined in the chorus peremptorily demanded to know if he had put the pail there on purpose In which case sir said he you must never let me see you laugh again to the longest hour you have to live
My good Macdersey said the General go into another room and have your cloaths wiped and dried it will be time enough then to settle who shall laugh longest
General said he I scorn to mind being either wet or dry a soldier ought to be above such delicate effeminacy it is not therefore the sousing I regard provided I can once be clear it was not done for a joke
Lionel when he could speak declared that far from placing the pail there on purpose he had not known there was such a closet in the house nor had ever been up those stairs till they all mounted them together
I am perfectly satisfied then my good friend said the Ensign shaking him by the hand with an heartiness that gave him no small share of the pails contents when a gentleman tells me a thing seriously I make it a point to believe him especially if he has a good honest countenance that assures me he would not refuse me satisfaction in the case he had meant to make game of me
And do you always terminate your jests with the ceremony of a tilting match cried Sir Sedley
Yes Sir if Im made a joke of by a man of any honour For to tell you a piece of my mind theres no one thing upon earth I hate like a joke unless its against another person and then it only gives me a little joy inwardly for I make it a point of complaisance not to laugh out except where I happen to wish for a little private conversation with the person that gives me the diversion
Facetious in the extreme cried Sir Sedley an infallibly excellent mode to make a man die of laughter Droll to the utmost
With regard to that Sir I have no objection to a little wit or humour provided a person has the politeness to laugh only at himself and his own particular friends and relations but if once he takes the liberty to turn me into ridicule I look upon it as an affront and expect the proper reparation
O to refuse that would be without bowels to a degree
Lionel now ran up stairs to beg the ladies would come and see the theatre but suddenly exclaimed as he looked around Ah ha and hastily galloped down and to the bottom of the house Mrs Arlbery descended with her young party and the Ensign in mock heroics solemnly prostrated himself to Miss Dennel pouring into her delighted ears from various shreds and scraps of different tragedies the most high flown and egregiously illadapted complements while the Major less absurdly though scarce less passionately made Camilla his Juliet and whispered the tenderest lines of Romeo
Lionel presently running out of breath up stairs again cried Mrs Arlbery I have drawn you in a new beau
Have you cried she coolly why then I permit you to draw him out again Had you told me he had forced himself in you had made him welcome But I foster only willing slaves So off if you please with your boast and your beau
I cant upon my word maam for he is at my heels
Mandlebert at the same moment not hearing what passed made his appearance
The surprised and always unguarded Camilla uttered an involuntary exclamation which instantly catching his ear drew his eye towards the exclaimer and there fixed it with an astonishment which suspended wholly his half made bow and beginning address to Mrs Arlbery
Lionel had descried him upon the little hill before the house where as he was passing on his own attention had been caught by the sound of horns and clarinets just as without any explanation Lionel flew to tell him he was wanted and almost forced him off his horse and up the stairs
Mrs Arlbery in common with those who dispense with all forms for themselves exacted them punctiliously from all others The visit therefore of Mandlebert not being designed for her afforded her at first no gratification and produced rather a contrary feeling when she observed the total absence of all pleasure in the surprise with which he met Camilla at her house She gave him a reception of cold civility and then chatted almost wholly with the General or Sir Sedley
Edgar scarce saw whether he was received or not his bow was mechanical his apology for his intrusion was unintelligible Amazement at seeing Camilla under this roof disappointment at her breach of implied promise and mortification at the air of being at home which he thought he remarked in her situation though at an acquaintance he had taken so much pains to keep aloof from her all conspired to displease and perplex him and though his eyes could with difficulty look any other way he neither spoke to nor approached her
Nor was even thus meeting her all he had to give him disturbance the palpable devoirs of Major Cerwood incensed as well astonished him for under pretext of only following the humour of the day in affecting to act the hero in love the Major assailed her without reserve with declarations of his passion which though his words passed off as quotations his looks and manner made appropriate How already thought Edgar has he obtained such a privilege such confidence To have uttered one such sentence my tongue would have trembled my lips would have quivered
Camilla felt confounded by his presence from the consciousness of the ill opinion she must excite by this second apparent disregard of a given engagement She would fain have explained to him its history but she could not free herself from the Major whose theatrical effusions were not now to be repressed since at first she had unthinkingly attended to them
Lionel joined with Macdersey in directing similar heroics to Miss Dennel who simply enchanted called out Im determined when Ive a house of my own Ill have just such a room as this at the top of it on purpose to act a play every night
And when my dear said Mrs Arlbery do you expect to have a house of your own
O as soon as I am married you know
Is your marrying then already decided
Dear no not that I know of aunt Im sure I never trouble myself about it only I suppose it will happen some day or other
And when it does you are very sure your husband will approve your acting plays every night
O as to that I shant ask him Whenever Im married Ill be my own mistress that Im resolved upon But papas so monstrous cross he says he wont let me act plays now
Papas and mamas cried Sir Sedley are ever most egregiously in the way Tis prodigiously surprising they have never yet been banished society I know no mark more irrefragable of the supineness of mankind
Then rising and exclaiming What savage heat I wish the weather had a little feeling he broke up the party by ordering his curricle and being the first to depart
That creature cried Mrs Arlbery if one had the least care for him is exactly an animal to drive one mad He labours harder to be affected than any ploughman does for his dinner And completely as his conceit obscures it he has every endowment nature can bestow except common sense
They now all descended to take leave except the Ensign and Lionel who went arm in arm prowling about to view all the garrets followed on tiptoe by Miss Dennel Lavinia called vainly after her brother but Camilla hoping every instant she might clear her conduct to Edgar was not sorry to be detained
They had not however been five minutes in the parlour before a violent and angry noise from above induced them all to remount to the top of the house and there upon entering a garret whence it issued they saw Miss Dennel decorated with the Ensigns cocked hat and feather yet looking pale with fright Lionel accoutred in the maids cloaths and almost in a convulsion of laughter and Macdersey in a rage utterly incomprehensible with the coachmans large bobwig hanging loose upon his head
It was sometime before it was possible to gather that having all paraded into various garrets in search of adventures Lionel after attiring himself in the maids gown cap and apron had suddenly deposited upon Miss Dennels head the Ensigns cocked hat replacing it with the coachmans best wig upon the toupee of Macdersey whose resentment was so violent at this liberty that it was still some minutes before he could give it articulation
The effect of this full buckled bobjerom which stuck hollow from the young face and powdered locks of the Ensign was irresistibly ludicrous yet he would have deemed it a greater indignity to take it quietly off than to be viewed in it by thousands though when he saw the disposition of the whole company to sympathise with Lionel his wrath rose yet higher and stamping with passion he fiercely said to him—Take it off sir—take it off my head
Lionel holding this too imperious a command to be obeyed only shouted louder Macdersey then incensed beyond endurance lowered his voice with stifled choler and putting his arms akimbo said—If you take me for a fool sir I shall demand satisfaction for its what I never put up with
Then turning to the rest he solemnly added—I beg pardon of all the worthy company for speaking this little whisper which certainly I should scorn to do before ladies if it had not been a secret
Mrs Arlbery alarmed at the serious consequences now threatening this folly said—No no I allow of no secrets in my house but what are entrusted to myself I insist therefore upon being umpire in this cause
Madam said Macdersey I hope never to become such a debased brute of the creation as to contradict the commands of a fair lady except when its upon a point of honour But I cant consent to pass for a fool and still more not for a poltroon—Youll excuse the little hint
Then while making a profound and ceremonious bow his wig fell over his head on the ground
This is very unlucky cried he with a look of vexation for certainly and to be sure no human mortal should have made me take it off myself before I was righted
Camilla picking it up to render the affair merely burlesque pulled off the maids cap from her brothers head and put on the wig in its place saying—There Lionel you have played the part of Lady Wrong Head long enough be so good now as to perform that of Sir Francis
This ended the business and the whole party in curricles on horseback or on foot departed from the Grove
BOOK IV
CHAPTER I
A Few Explanations
The last words of Dr Marchmont in taking leave of Edgar were injunctions to circumspection and representations of the difficulty of drawing back with honour if once any incautious eagerness betrayed his partiality To this counsel he was impelled to submit lest he should risk for Camilla a report similar to that which for Indiana had given him so much disturbance There indeed he felt himself wholly blameless His admiration was but such as he always experienced at sight of a beautiful picture nor had it ever been demonstrated in any more serious manner He had distinguished her by no particular attention singled her out by no pointed address taken no pains to engage her good opinion and manifested no flattering pleasure at her approach or presence
His sense of right was too just to mislead him into giving himself similar absolution with respect to Camilla He had never indeed indulged a voluntary vent to his preference but the candour of his character convinced him that what so forcibly he had felt he must occasionally have betrayed Yet the idea excited regret without remorse for though it had been his wish as well as intention to conceal his best hopes till they were ratified by his judgment he had the conscious integrity of knowing that should her heart become his prize his dearest view in life would be to solicit her hand
To preserve therefore the appearance of an undesigning friend of the house he had forced himself to refrain for two days from any visit to the rectory whither he was repairing when thus unlooked and unwished for he surprized Camilla at the Grove
Disappointed and disapproving feelings kept him while there aloof from her by continual suggestions that her character was of no stability that Dr Marchmont was right in his doubts and Miss Margland herself not wrong in accusing her of caprice and when he perceived upon her preparing to walk home with her brother and sister that Major Cerwood stept forward to attend her he indignantly resolved to arrange without delay his continental excursion But again when as she quitted the room he saw her head half turned round with an eye of enquiry if he followed he determined frankly and at once in his capacity of a friend to request some explanation of this meeting
The assiduities of the Major made it difficult to speak to her but the aid of her desire for a conversation which was equally anxious and less guarded than his own anticipated his principal investigation by urging her voluntarily to seize an opportunity of relating to him the history of her first visit to Mrs Arlbery and of assuring him that the second was indispensably its consequence
Softened by this apparent earnestness for his good opinion all his interest and all his tenderness for her returned and though much chagrined at the accident or rather mischief which had thus established the acquaintance he had too little to say whatever he had to feel of positive weight against it to propose its now being relinquished He thanked her impressively for so ready an explanation and then gently added I know your predilection in favour of this lady and I will say nothing to disturb it but as she is yet new to you and as all residence all intercourse from your own home or relations is new to you also—tell me candidly sincerely tell me can you condescend to suffer an old friend though in the person of but a young man to offer you from time to time a hint a little counsel a few brief words of occasional advice and even perhaps now and then to torment you into a little serious reflection
If you cried she gaily will give me the reflection I promise to the best of my power to give you in return the seriousness but I can by no means engage for both
O never but from your own prudence he answered gratefully may your delightful vivacity know a curb If now I seem myself to fear it it is not from moroseness it is not from insensibility to its charm——
He was stopt here by Macdersey who suddenly overtaking him entreated an immediate short conference upon a matter of moment
Though cruelly vexed by the interruption he could not refuse to turn back with him and Camilla again was left wholly to the gallant Major but her heart felt so light that she had thus cleared herself to Edgar so gratified by his request to become himself her monitor and so enchanted to find her acquaintance with Mrs Arlbery no longer disputed that she was too happy to admit any vexation and the Major had never thought her so charming though of the Major she thought not one moment
Macdersey with a long ceremonious and not very clear apology confessed he had called Mandlebert aside only to enquire into the certain truth if it were not a positive secret of his intended nuptials with the beautiful Miss Lynmere Mandlebert with surprize but without any hesitation declared himself wholly without any pretensions to that lady Macdersey then embraced him and they parted mutually satisfied
It seemed now too late to Mandlebert to go to Etherington till the next day whither as soon as he had breakfasted he then rode
According to his general custom he went immediately to the study where he met with a calm but kind reception from Mr Tyrold and after half an hours conversation upon Lisbon Dr Marchmont and Mrs Tyrold he left him to seek his young friends
In the parlour he found Lavinia alone but before he could enquire for her sister who was accidentally up stairs Lionel just dismounted from his horse appeared
O ho Edgar cried he you are here are you this would make fine confusion if that beauty of nature, Miss Margland should happen to call Theyve just sent for you to Beech Park I dont know whats to be done to you but if you have an inclination to save poor Camillas eyes or cap at least from that meek tender creature youll set off for Cleves before they know you are in this house
Edgar amazed desired an explanation but he protested the wrath of Miss Margland had been so comical and given him so much diversion that he had not been able to get at any particulars he only knew there was a great commotion and that Edgar was declared in love with some of his sisters or cousins and Miss Margland was in a rage that it was not with herself and that in short because he only happened to drop a hint of the latter notion that delectable paragon had given him so violent a blow with her fine eyes that in order to vent an ungovernable fit of laughter without the risk of having the house pulled about his ears he had hastily mounted his horse and galloped off
The contempt of Edgar for Miss Margland would have made him disdain another question if the name of Camilla had not been mingled in this relation; no question however could procure further information Lionel enchanted that he had tormented Miss Margland understood nothing more of the matter and could only repeat his own merry sayings and their effect
Lavinia expressed most innocently her curiosity to know what this meant and was going for Camilla to assist in some conjecture but Edgar who by this strange story had lost his composure felt unequal to hearing it discussed in her presence and pleading sudden haste rode away
He did not however go to Cleves he hardly knew if Lionel had not amused him with a feigned story but he no sooner arrived at Beech Park then he found a message from Sir Hugh begging to see him with all speed
The young Ensign was the cause of this present summons and disturbance Elated by the declaration of Mandlebert that the rumour of his contract was void of foundation and buoyed up by Mrs Arlbery to whom he returned with the communication he resolved to make his advances in form He presented himself therefore at Cleves where he asked an audience of Sir Hugh and at once with his accustomed vehemence declared himself bound eternally life and soul to his fair niece Miss Lynmere and desired that in order to pay his addresses to her he might be permitted to see her at odd times when he was off duty
Sir Hugh was scarce able to understand him from his volubility and the extravagance of his phrases and gestures but he imputed them to his violent passion and therefore answered him with great gentleness assuring him he did not mean to doubt his being a proper alliance for his niece though he had never heard of him before but begging he would not be affronted if he could not accept him not knowing yet quite clearly if she were not engaged to a young gentleman in the neighbourhood
The Ensign now loudly proclaimed his own news Mandlebert had protested himself free and the whole county already rang with the mistake
Sir Hugh who always at a loss how to say no thought this would have been a good answer now sent for Miss Margland and desired her to speak herself with the young gentleman
Miss Margland much gratified asked Macdersey if she could look at his rent roll
He had nothing of the kind at hand he said not being yet come to his estate which was in Ireland and was still the property of a first cousin who was not yet dead
Miss Margland promising he should have an answer in a few days then dismissed him but more irritated than ever against Mandlebert from the contrast of his power to make settlements she burst forth into her old declarations of his ill usage of Miss Lynmere attributing it wholly to the contrivances of Camilla whom she had herself she said surprized wheedling Edgar into her snares when she called last at Etherington and who she doubted not they should soon hear was going to be married to him
Sir Hugh always understood literally whatever was said these assertions therefore of ill humour merely made to vent black bile affected him deeply for the honour and welfare of Camilla and he hastily sent a messenger for Edgar determining to beg if that were the case he would openly own the whole and not leave all the blame to fall all upon his poor niece
At this period Lionel had called and by inflaming Miss Margland had aggravated the general disturbance
When Edgar arrived Sir Hugh told him of the affair assuring him he should never have taken amiss his preferring Camilla which he thought but natural if he had only done it from the first
Edgar though easily through all this he saw the malignant yet shallow offices of Miss Margland found himself with infinite vexation compelled to declare off equally from both the charges conscious that till the very moment of his proposals he must appear to have no preference nor designs He spoke therefore with the utmost respect of the young ladies but again said it was uncertain if he should not travel before he formed any establishment
The business thus explicitly decided nothing more could be done but Miss Margland was somewhat appeased when she heard that her pupil was not so disgracefully to be supplanted
Indiana herself to whom Edgar had never seemed agreeable soon forgot she had ever thought of him and elated by the acquisition of a new lover doubted not but in a short time the publication of her liberty would prove slavery to all mankind
Early the next morning the carriage of Sir Hugh arrived at the rectory for Camilla She never refused an invitation from her uncle but she felt so little equal to passing a whole day in the presence of Miss Margland after the unaccountable yet alarming relation she had gathered from Lionel that she entreated him to accompany her and to manage that she should return with him as soon as the horses were fed and rested
Lionel ever good humoured and ready to oblige willingly complied but demanded that she should go with him in their way back to see a new house which he wanted to examine
Sir Hugh received her with his usual affection Indiana with indifference and Miss Margland with a malicious smile but Eugenia soon taking her aside disclosed to her that Edgar the day before had publicly and openly disclaimed any views upon Indiana and had declared himself without any passion whatever and free from all inclination or intention but to travel
The blush of pleasure with which Camilla heard the first sentence of this speech became the tingle of shame at the second and whitened into surprise and sorrow at the last
Eugenia though she saw some disturbance understood not these changes Early absorbed in the study of literature and languages under the direction of a preceptor who had never mingled with the world her capacity had been occupied in constant work for her memory but her judgment and penetration had been wholly unexercised Like her uncle she concluded every body and every thing to be precisely what they appeared and though in that given point of view she had keener intellects to discern and more skill to appreciate persons and characters she was as unpractised as himself in those discriminative powers which dive into their own conceptions to discover the latent springs the multifarious and contradictory sources of human actions and propensities
Upon their return to the company Miss Margland chose to relate the history herself Mr Mandlebert she said had not only thought proper to acknowledge his utter insensibility to Miss Lynmere but had declared his indifference for every woman under the sun and protested he held them all cheap alike So I would advise nobody she continued to flatter themselves with making a conquest of him for they may take my word for it he wont be caught very easily
Camilla disdained to understand this but in a general sense and made no answer Indiana pouting her lip said she was sure she did not want to catch him she did not fear having offers enough without him if she should happen to chuse to marry
Certainly said Miss Margland theres no doubt of that and this young officers coming the very moment he heard of your being at liberty is a proof that the only reason of your having had no more proposals is owing to Mr Mandlebert So I dont speak for you but for any body else that may suppose they may please the difficult gentleman better
Camilla now breathed hard with resentment but still was silent and Indiana answering only for herself said O yes I cant say Im much frightened I dare say if Mr Melmond had known but he thought like everybody else however Im sure Im very glad of it only I wish he had spoke a little sooner for I suppose Mr Melmond thinks me as much out of his reach as if I was married Not that I care about it only its provoking
No my dear said Miss Margland it would be quite below your dignity to think about him without knowing better who he is or what are his expectations and connexions As to this young officer I shall take proper care to make enquiries before he has his answer He belongs to a very good family for hes related to Lord OLerney and I have friends in Ireland who can acquaint me with his situation and fortune Theres time enough to look about you only as Mr Mandlebert has behaved so unhandsomely I hope none of the family will give him their countenance I am sure it will be to no purpose if any body should think of doing it by way of having any design upon him It will be lost labour I can tell them
As to that I am quite easy said Indiana tossing her head any body is welcome to him for me—my cousin or any body else
Camilla now absolutely called upon to speak with all the spirit she could assume said With regard to me there is no occasion to remind me how much I am out of the question yet suffer me to say respect for myself would secure me from forming such plans as you surmise if no other sense of propriety could save me from such humiliation
Now my dear you speak properly said Miss Margland taking her hand and I hope you will have the spirit to shew him you care no more for him than he cares for you
I hope so too answered Camilla turning pale but I dont suppose—I cant imagine—that it is very likely he should have mentioned anything good or bad—with regard to his care for me
This was painfully uttered but from a curiosity irrepressible
As to that my dear dont deceive yourself for the question was put home to him very properly that you might know what you had to expect and not keep off other engagements from a false notion
This indeed said Camilla colouring with indignation this has been a most useless a most causeless enquiry
I am very glad you treat the matter as it deserves for I like to see young ladies behave with dignity
And pray then what—was there any—did he make—was there any—any answer—to this—to—
O yes he answered without any great ceremony I can assure you He said in so many words that he thought no more of you than of our cousin and was going abroad to divert and amuse himself better than by entering into marriage with either one or other of you or with any body else
Camilla felt half killed by this answer and presently quitting the room ran out into the garden and to a walk far from the house before she had power to breathe or recollection to be aware of the sensibility she was betraying
She then as hastily went back secretly resolving never more to think of him and to shew both to himself and to the world by every means in her power her perfect indifference
She could not however endure to encounter Miss Margland again but called for Lionel and begged him to hurry the coachman
Lionel complied—she took a hasty leave of her uncle and only saying Good by good by to the rest made her escape
Sir Hugh ever unsuspicious thought her merely afraid to detain her brother but Eugenia calm affectionate and divested of cares for herself saw evidently that something was wrong though she divined not what and entreated leave to go with her sister to Etherington and thence return without keeping out the horses
Sir Hugh was well pleased and the two sisters and Lionel set off together
CHAPTER II
Specimens of Taste
The presence of Lionel stifled the enquiries of Eugenia and pride all up in arms absorbed every softer feeling in Camilla
When they had driven half a mile Now young ladies said he I shall treat you with a frolic He then stopt the carriage and told the coachman to drive to Cornfield saying Tis but two miles about and Coachy wont mind that will you Coachy
The coachman looking forward to half a crown said his horses would be all the better for a little more exercise and Jacob familiarly fond of Lionel from a boy made no difficulty
Lionel desired his sisters to ask no questions assuring them he had great designs and a most agreeable surprise in view for them
In pursuance of his directions they drove on till they came before a small house just new fronted with deep red bricks containing on the ground floor two little bow windows in a sharp triangular form enclosing a door ornamented with small panes of glass cut in various shapes on the first story a little balcony decorated in the middle and at each corner with leaden images of Cupids and in the attic story a very small venetian window partly formed with minute panes of glass and partly with glazed tiles representing in blue and white various devices of dogs and cats mice and birds rats and ferrets as emblems of the conjugal state
Well young ladies what say you to this cried he does it hit your fancy If it does tis your own
Eugenia asked what he meant
Mean to make a present of it to which ever is the best girl and can first cry bo to a goose Come dont look disdainfully Eugenia what say you wont it be better to be mistress of this little neat tight snug box and a pretty little tidy husband that belongs to it than to pore all day long over a Latin theme with old Dr Orkborne I have often thought my poor uncle was certainly out of his wits when he set us all men women and children to learn Latin or else be whipt by the old doctor But we all soon got our necks out of the collar except poor Eugenia and shes had to work for us all However heres an opportunity—see but what a pretty place—not quite finished to be sure but look at that lake how cool how rural how refreshing
Lake repeated Eugenia I see nothing but a very dirty little pond with a mass of rubbish in the middle Indeed I see nothing else but rubbish all round and every where
Thats the very beauty of the thing my dear its all in the exact state for being finished under your own eye and according to your own taste
To whom does it belong
Its uninhabited yet but its preparing for a very spruce young spark that I advise you both to set your caps at Hold I see somebody peeping Ill go and get some news for you
He then jumped from the coach and ran up five deep narrow steps formed of single large rough stones which mounted so much above the threshold of the house that upon opening the door there appeared a stool to assist all comers to reach the floor of the passage
Eugenia with some curiosity looked out and saw her brother after nearly forcing his entrance speak to a very mean little man dressed in old dirty cloaths who seemed willing to hide himself behind the door but whom he almost dragged forward saying aloud O I can take no excuse I insist upon your shewing the house I have brought two young ladies on purpose to see it and who knows but one of them may take a fancy to it and make you a happy man for life
As to that sir said the man still endeavouring to retreat I cant say as Ive quite made my mind up yet as to the marriage ceremony Ive known partly enough of the state already but if ever I marry again which is a moot point I shant do it hand over head like a boy without knowing what Im about However its time enough oconscience to think of that when my house is done and my workmen is off my hands
Camilla now by the language and the voice gathered that this was Mr Dubster
Pho pho answered Lionel you must not be so hardhearted when fair ladies are in the case Besides one of them is that pretty girl you flirted with at Northwick Shes a sister of mine and I shall take it very ill if you dont hand her out of the coach and do the honours of your place to her
Camilla much provoked earnestly called to her brother but utterly in vain
Laukaday why it is not half finished said Mr Dubster nor a quarter neither and as to that young lady I cant say as it was much in my mind to be over civil to her any more begging pardon after her giving me the slip in that manner I cant say as I think it was over and above handsome letting me get my gloves Not that I mind it in the least as to that
Pho pho man you must never bear malice against a fair lady Besides shes come now on purpose to make her excuses
O thats another thing if the young ladys sorry I shant think of holding out Besides I cant say but what I thought her agreeable enough if it had not been for her behaving so comical just at the last Not that I mean in the least to make any complaint by way of getting of the young lady scolded
You must make friends now man and think no more of it cried Lionel who would have drawn him to the carriage but he protested he was quite ashamed to be seen in such a dishabille and should go first and dress himself Lionel on the contrary declaring nothing so manly nor so becoming as a neglect of outward appearance pulled him to the coach door notwithstanding all his efforts to disengage himself and the most bashful distortions with which he strove to sneak behind his conductor
Ladies said he Mr Dubster desires to have the honour of walking over his house and grounds with you
Camilla declared she had no time to alight but Lionel insisted and soon forced them both from the coach
Mr Dubster no longer stiff starched and proud as when full dressed was sunk into the smallest insignificance and when they were compelled to enter his grounds through a small Chinese gate painted of a deep blue would entirely have kept out of sight but for a whisper from Lionel that the ladies had owned they thought he looked to particular advantage in that careless attire
Encouraged by this he came boldly forward and suddenly facing them made a low bow saying Young ladies your humble
They courtsied slightly and Camilla said she was very sorry to break in upon him
O it dont much matter cried he extremely pleased by this civility I only hope young ladies you wont take umbrage at my receiving you in this pickle but youve popt upon me unawares as one may say And my best coat is at this very minute at Tom Hickss nicely packed and papered up and tied all round in a drawer of his up stairs in his room And Id have gone for it with the greatest pleasure in life to shew my respect if the young gentleman would have let me
And then recollecting Eugenia Good lauk maam said he in a low voice to Camilla thats that same lame little lady as I saw at the ball
That lady sir answered she provoked is my sister
Mercys me exclaimed he lifting up his hands I wish Id known as much at the time Im sure maam if Id thought the young lady was any ways related to you I would not have said a word disrespectful upon no account
Lionel asked how long he had had this place
Only a little while I happened of it quite lucky A friend of mine was just being turned out of it in default of payment and so I got it a bargain I intend to fit it up a little in taste and then whether I like it or no I can always let it
They were now by Lionel dragged into the house which was yet unfurnished half papered and half white washed The workmen Mr Dubster said were just gone to dinner and he rejoiced that they had happened to come so conveniently when he should be no loser by leaving the men to themselves in order to oblige the young ladies with his company
He insisted upon shewing them not only every room but every closet every cupboard every nook corner and hiding place praising their utility and enumerating all their possible appropriations with the most minute encomiums
But Im quite sorry cried he young ladies to think as Ive nothing to offer you I eats my dinner always at the Globe having nobody here to cook However Id have had a morsel of cake or so if the young gentleman had been so kind as to give me an item beforehand of your intending me the favour But as to getting things into the house hap hazard really everything is so dear—its quite out of reason.'
The scampering of horses now carrying them to a window they saw some hounds in full cry followed by horsemen in full gallop Lionel declared he would borrow Jacobs mare and join them while his sisters walked about the grounds but Camilla taking him aside made a serious expostulation protesting that her father with all his indulgence and even her uncle himself would be certainly displeased if he left them alone with this man of whom they knew nothing but his very low trade
Why what is his trade
A tinkers Mrs Arlbery told me so
He laughed violently at this information protesting he was rejoiced to find so much money could be made by the tinkering business which he was determined to follow in his next distress for cash yet added he feared this was only the malice of Mrs Arlbery for Dubster he had been told had kept a shop for ready made wigs
He gave up however his project forgetting the chace when he no longer heard the hounds and desired Mr Dubster to proceed in shewing his lions
Lauk a day sir Ive got no lions nor tygers neither Its a deal of expence keeping them animals and though I know they reckon me near I shant do no such thing for if a man does not take a little care of his money when once he has got it especially if its honestly I think hes a fool for his pains begging pardon for speaking my mind so freely
He then led them again to the front of the house where he desired they would look at his pond This said he is what I value the most of all except my summer house and my labyrinth I shall stock it well and many a good dinner I hope to eat from it It gets me an appetite sometimes I think only to look at it
Tis a beautiful piece of water said Lionel and may be useful to the outside as well as the inside for if you go in head foremost you may bathe as well as feed from it
No I shant do that sir Im not over and above fond of water at best However I shall have a swan
A swan why sure you wont be contented with only one
O yes I shall It will only be made of wood painted over in white Theres no end of feeding them things if one has em alive Besides it will look just as pretty and wont bite And I know a friend of mine that one of them creatures flew at and gave him such a bang as almost broke his leg only for throwing a stone at it out of mere play They are mortal spiteful if you happen to hurt them when youre in their reach
He then begged them to go over to his island which proved to be what Eugenia had taken for a mass of rubbish They would fain have been excused crossing a plank which he called a bridge but Lionel would not be denied
Now here said he when my islands finished I shall have something these young ladies will like and thats a lamb
Alive or dead cried Lionel
Alive he replied for I shall have good pasture in a little bit of ground just by where I shall keep me a cow and here will be grass enough upon my island to keep it from starving on Sundays and for now and then when Ive somebody come to see me And when its fit for killing I can change it with the farmer down the lane for another young one by a bargain Ive agreed with him for already for I dont love to run no risks about a thing for mere pleasure
Your place will be quite a paradise said Lionel
Why indeed sir I think Ive earned having a little recreeting for I worked hard enough for it before I happened of meeting with my first wife
O ho so you began with marrying a fortune
Yes sir and very pretty she was too if she had not been so puny But she was always ailing She cost me a mort of money to the potecary before she went off And she was a tedious while a dying poor soul
Your first wife surely you have not been twice married already
Yes I have My second wife brought me a very pretty fortune too I cant say but Ive rather had the luck of it as far as Ive gone yet awhile
They now repassed the plank and were conducted to an angle in which a bench was placed close to the chinese rails which was somewhat shaded by a willow that grew in a little piece of stagnant water on the other side A syringa was planted in front and a broomtree on the right united it with the willow in the middle there was a deal table
Now young ladies said Mr Dubster if you have a taste to breathe a little fresh country air heres where I advise you to take your rest When I come to this place first my arbour as I call this had no look out but just to the fields so I cut away them lilacs and now theres a good pretty look out And its a thing not to be believed what a sight of people and coaches and gentlemens whiskeys and stages and flys and wagons and all sorts of things as ever you can think of goes by all day long I often think peoples got but little to do at home
Next he desired to lead them to his grotto which he said was but just begun It was indeed as yet nothing but a little square hole dug into a chalky soil down into which no steps being yet made he slid as well as he could to the no small whitening of his old brown coat which already was thread bare
He begged the ladies to follow that he might shew them the devices he had marked out with his own hand and from his own head for fitting up the inside Lionel would not suffer his sisters to refuse compliance though Mr Dubster himself cautioned them to come carefully in particular he said the little lady as she has happened of an ugly accident already as I judge in one of her hips and twould be pity at her time of life if she should happen of another at tother side
Eugenia not aware this misfortune was so glaring felt much hurt by this speech and Camilla very angry with its speaker sought to silence him by a resentful look but not observing it Pray maam he continued was it a fall or was you born so
Eugenia looked struck and surprized and Camilla hastily whispered it was a fall and bid him say no more about it but not understanding her I take it then he said that was what stinted your growth so Miss for I take it youre not much above the dwarf as they shew at Exeter Change Much of a muchness I guess Did you ever see him maam
No sir
It would be a good sight enough to see you together Hed think himself a man in a minute You must have had the small pox mortal bad maam I suppose youd the conflint sort
Camilla here without waiting for help slid down into the intended grotto and asked a thousand questions to change the subject while Eugenia much disconcerted slowly followed aided by Lionel
Mr Dubster then displayed the ingenious intermixture of circles and diamonds projected for the embellishment of his grotto the first of which were to be formed with cockleshells which he meant to colour with blue paint and the second he proposed shaping with bits of shining black coal The spaces between would each have an oystershell in the middle and here and there he designed to leave the chalk to itself, which would always he observed make the grotto light and cheery Shells he said unluckily he did not happen to have but as he had thoughts of taking a little pleasure some summer at Brighthelmstone or Margate for he intended to see all those places he should make a collection then being told he might have as curious shells and pebbles too as a man could wish to look at only for the trouble of picking them up off the shore
They next went to what he called his labyrinth which was a little walk he was cutting zigzag through some brushwood so low that no person above three foot height could be hid by it Every step they took here cost a rent to some lace or some muslin of one of the sisters which Mr Dubster observed with a delight he could not conceal saying this was a true country walk and would do them both a great deal of good and adding we that live in town would give our ears for such a thing as this And though they could never proceed a yard at a time from the continual necessity of disentangling their dress from thorns and briars he exultingly boasted that he should give them a good appetite for their dinner and asked if this rural ramble did not make them begin to feel hungry For my part continued he if once I get settled a bit I shall take a turn in this zigzag every day before dinner which may save me my five grains of rhubarb that the doctor ordered me for my stomach since my having my illness which come upon me almost as soon as I was a gentleman from change of life I believe for I never knew no other reason and none of the doctors could tell me nothing about it But a man thats had a deal to do feels quite unked at first when hes only got to look and stare about him and just walk from one room to another without no employment
Lionel said he hoped at least he would not require his rhubarb to get down his dinner to day
I hope so too squire answered he licking his lips for Ive ordered a pretty good one I can tell you beef steaks and onions and I dont know whats better Tom Hicks is to dine with me at the Globe as soon as Ive give my workmen their tasks and seen after a young lad thats to do me a job there by my grotto Tom Hicks is a very good fellow I like him best of any acquaintance Ive made in these here parts Indeed Ive made no other on account of the unconvenience of dressing while Im so much about with my workmen So I keep pretty incog from the genteel and Tom does well enough in the interim
He then requested them to make haste to his summerhouse because his workmen would be soon returned and he could not then spare a moment longer without spoiling his own dinner
My summerhouse said he is not above half complete yet but it will be very pretty when its done Only Ive got no stairs yet to it but theres a very good ladder if the ladies ant afraid
The ladies both desired to be excused mounting but Lionel protested he would not have his friend affronted and as neither of them were in the habit of resisting him nor of investigating with seriousness any thing that he proposed they were soon teized into acquiescence and he assisted them to ascend
Mr Dubster followed
The summerhouse was as yet no more than a shell without windows scarcely roofed and composed of lath and plaister not half dry It looked on to the high road and Mr Dubster assured them that on market days the people passed so thick there was no seeing them for the dust
Here they had soon cause to repent their facility—that dangerous yet venial because natural fault of youth—for hardly had they entered this place ere a distant glimpse of a fleet stag and a party of sportsmen incited Lionel to scamper down and calling out I shall be back presently he made off towards the house dragging the ladder after him
The sisters eagerly and almost angrily remonstrated but to no purpose and while they were still entreating him to return and supposing him though out of sight within hearing they suddenly perceived him passing the window by the high road on horseback switch in hand and looking in the utmost glee I have borrowed Jacobs mare he cried for just half an hours sport and sent Jacob and Coachy to get a little refreshment at the next public house but dont be impatient I shant be long
Off then he galloped laughing in defiance of the serious entreaties of his sisters and without staying to hear even one sentence of the formal exhortations of Mr Dubster
CHAPTER III
A few Compliments
The two young ladies and Mr Dubster left thus together and so situated that separation without assistance was impossible looked at one another for some time in nearly equal dismay and then Mr Dubster with much displeasure exclaimed—Them young gentlemen are as full of mischief as an eggs full of meat Whod have thought of a persons going to do such a thing as this—its mortal convenient making me leave my workmen at this rate for I dare say theyre come or coming by this time I wish Id tied the ladder to this here rafter
The sisters though equally provoked thought it necessary to make some apology for the wild behaviour of their brother
O young ladies said he formally waving his hand by way of a bow I dont in the least mean to blame you about it for youre very welcome to stay as long as its agreeable only I hope hell come back by my dinner time for a cold beefsteak is one or other the worst morsel I know
He then kept an unremitting watch from one window to another for some passenger from whom he could claim aid but much as he had boasted of the numbers perpetually in sight he now dolorously confessed that sometimes not a soul came near the place for half a day together And as to my workmen continued he the deuce cant make em hear if once they begin their knocking and hammering
And then with a smirk at the idea he added—Ill tell you what Id best give a good squall at once and then if they are come I may catch em in the proviso you wont mind it young ladies
This scheme was put immediately into practice but though the sisters were obliged to stop their ears from his vociferation it answered no purpose
Well Ill bet you what you will cried he they are all deaf however its as well as it is for if they was to come and see me hoisted up in this cage like theyd only make a joke of it and then theyd mind me no more than a pin never again Its surprising how them young gentlemen never think of nothing If hed served me so when I was a prentice hed have paid pretty dear for his frolic master would have charged him half a days work as sure as a gun
Soon after while looking out of the window I do think he exclaimed I see somebody—It shall go hard but what Ill make em come to us
He then shouted with great violence but the person crossed a stile into a field without seeing or hearing him
This provoked him very seriously and turning to Camilla rather indignantly he said—Really maam I wish youd tell your brother I should take it as a favour hed never serve me o this manner no more
She hoped she said he would in future be more considerate
Its a great hindrance to business maam such things and its a sheer love of mischief too begging pardon for its of no manner of use to him no more than it is to us
He then desired that if any body should pass by again they might all squall out at once saying it was odds then but they might be heard
Not that its over agreeable at the best added he for if one was to stop any poor person and make em come round and look for the ladder one could not be off giving them something and as to any of the gentlefolks one might beg and pray as long as one would before theyd stir a step for one and as to any of ones acquaintance if they was to go by its ten to one but theyd only fall a laughing Peoples generally illnatured when they sees one in jeopardy
Eugenia already thoughtful and discomposed now grew uneasy lest her uncle should be surprised at her long absence this a little appeased Mr Dubster who with less resentment said—So I see then were all in the same quandary However dont mind it young ladies you can have no great matters to do with your time I take it so it does not so much signify But a mans quite different He looks like a fool as one may say poked up in such a place as this to be stared at by all comers and goers only nobody happens to pass by
His lamentations now were happily interrupted by the appearance of three women and a boy who with baskets on their heads were returning from the next market town With infinite satisfaction he prepared to assail them saying he should now have some chance to get a bit of dinner and assuring the ladies that if they should like a little scrap for a relish he should be very willing to send em it by their footman For its a long while said he young ladies to be fasting thats the truth of it
The market women now approached and were most clamourously hailed before their own loud discourse and the singing and whistling of the boy permitted their hearing the appeal
Pray will you be so kind said Mr Dubster when he had made them stop as to step round by the house and see if you can see the workmen and if you can tell em a young gentleman as come here while they was at dinner has taken away the ladder and left us stuck up here in the lurch
The women all laughed and said it was a good merry trick but were preparing to follow his directions when Mr Dubster called after the boy who loitered behind with an encouraging nod If youll bring the ladder with you upon your shoulders my lad Ill give you a halfpenny
The boy was well contented but the women a little alarmed turned back and said—And what will you give to us master Give repeated he a little embarrassed why Ill give—why Ill thank you kindly and it wont be much out of your way for the house is only round there
Youll thank us kindly will you said one of the women its like you may But what will you do over and above
Do why its no great matter just to stop at the house as you go by and tell em——
Here Eugenia whispered she would herself satisfy them and begged he would let them make their own terms
No Miss no I dont like to see nobodys money fooled away no more than my own However as you are so generous Ill agree with em to give em a pot of beer
He then with some parade made this concession but said he must see the ladder before the money should be laid down
A pot of beer for four—a pot of beer for four they all exclaimed in a breath and down everyone put her basket and set her arms akembo unanimously declaring they would shame him for such stinginess
The most violent abuse now followed the boy imitating them and every other sentence concluding with—A pot of beer for four—ha
Camilla and Eugenia both frightened besought that they might have any thing, and every thing that could appease them but Mr Dubster was inflexible not to submit to imposition because of a few foul words For dear heart said he what harm will they do us—they ant of no consequence
Then addressing them again As to four he cried thats one over the bargain for I did not reckon the boy for nothing
You didnt didnt you cried the boy icod I hope Im as good as you any day in the year
Youll thank us kindly will you said one of the women Ifackens and so you shall when were fools enough to sarve you—A pot of beer for four
We help you down—we get you a ladder cried another yes forsooth its like we may—no stay where you are like a toad in a hole as you be
Camilla and Eugenia now tired of vain application to Mr Dubster who heard all this abuse with the most sedate unconcern advanced themselves to the window and Eugenia ever foremost where money was to be given began—Good women—— when with a violent loud shout they called out—What are you all in Hobs pound Well they as will may let you out for we so I wish you a merry time of it
Eugenia began again her—Good women—— when the boy exclaimed—What were you put up there for Miss to frighten the crows
Eugenia not understanding him was once more recommencing but the first woman said—I suppose you think well sarve you for looking at—no need to be paid
Yes yes cried the second Miss may go to market with her beauty shell not want for nothing if shell shew her pretty face
She need not be afeard of it however said the third for twill never be no worse Only take care Miss you dont catch the small pox
O fegs that would be pity cried the boy for fear Miss should be marked
Eugenia astonished and confounded made no farther attempt but Camilla though at that moment she could have inflicted any punishment upon such unprovoked assailants affected to give but little weight to what they said and gently drew her away
Hoity toity cried one of the women as she moved off why Miss do you walk upon your knees
Why my Poll would make two of her said another though shes only nine years old
She wont take much for cloaths cried another thats one good thing
Id answer to make her a gown out of my apron said the third
Your apron cried another your pocket handkerchief you mean—why shed be lost in your apron and you might look half an hour before youd find her
Eugenia to whom such language was utterly new was now in such visible consternation that Camilla affrighted earnestly charged Mr Dubster to find any means either of menace or of reward to make them depart
Lauk dont mind them maam cried he following Eugenia they cant do you no hurt though they are rather rude I must needs confess the truth to say such things to your face But one must not expect people to be over polite so far from London However I see the sporting gentry coming round over that way yonder and I warrant theyll gallop em off Harkee Mistresses them gentlemen that are coming here shall take you before the justice for affronting Sir Hughs Tyrolds Heiresses to all his fortunes
The women to whom the name and generous deeds of Sir Hugh Tyrold were familiar were now quieted and dismayed They offered some aukward apologies of not guessing such young ladies could be posted up in such a place and hoped it would be no detriment to them at the ensuing Christmas when the good Baronet gave away beef and beer but Mr Dubster pompously ordered them to make off saying he would not accept the ladder from them now for the gentry that were coming would get it for nothing So troop off cried he and as for you to the boy you shall have your jacket well trimmed I promise you I know who you are well enough and Ill tell your master of you as sure as youre alive
Away then with complete though not wellprincipled repentance they all marched
Mr Dubster turning round with exultation cried—I only said that to frighten them for I never see em before as I know of But I dont mind em of a rush and I hope you dont neither Though I cant pretend its over agreeable being made fun of If I see anybody snigger at me I always ask em what its for for Id as lieve theyd let it alone
Eugenia who as there was no seat had sunk upon the floor for rest and for refuge remained silent and seemed almost petrified while Camilla affectionately leaning over her began talking upon other subjects in hopes to dissipate a shock she was ashamed to console
She made no reply no comment but sighed deeply
Lauk cried Mr Dubster whats the matter with the young lady I hope she dont go for to take to heart what them old women says shell be never the worse to look at because of their impudence Besides fretting does no good to nothing If youll only come and stand here where I do Miss you may have a peep at ever so many dogs and all the gentlemen riding helter skelter round that hill Its a pretty sight enough for them as has nothing better to mind I dont know but I might make one among them myself now and then if it was not for the expensiveness of hiring of a horse
Here some of the party came galloping towards them and Mr Dubster made so loud an outcry that two or three of the sportsmen looked up and one of them riding close to the summerhouse perceived the two young ladies and instantly dismounting fastened his horse to a tree and contrived to scramble up into the little unfinished building
Camilla then saw it was Major Cerwood She explained to him the mischievous frolick of her brother and accepted his offered services to find the ladder and the carriage
Eugenia meanwhile rose and courtsied in answer to his enquiries after her health and then gravely fixing her eyes upon the ground took no further notice of him
The object of the Major was not Eugenia her taciturnity therefore did not affect him but pleased to be shut up with Camilla he soon found out that though to mount had been easy to descend would be difficult and after various mock efforts pronounced it would be necessary to wait till some assistance arrived from below adding young Mr Tyrold would soon return as he had seen him in the hunt
Camilla whose concern now was all for her sister heard this with indifference but Mr Dubster lost all patience So here said he I may stay and let Tom Hicks eat up all my dinner for I cant expect him to fast because of this young gentlemans comical tricks Ive half a mind to give a jump down myself and go look for the ladder only Im not over light Besides if one should break ones leg its but a hard thing upon a man to be a cripple in the middle of life Its no such great hindrance to a lady so I dont say it out of disrespect because ladies cant do much at the best
The Major finding Dubster was his host thought it necessary to take some notice of him and ask him if he never rode out
Why no not much of that Sir he answered for when a mans not over used to riding ones apt to get a bad tumble sometimes I believe its as well let alone I never see as there was much wit in breaking ones neck before ones time Besides half them gentlemen are no better than sharpers begging pardon for all they look as if they could knock one down
How do you mean sharpers Sir
Why they dont pay everyone his own not one in ten of them And theyre as proud as Lucifer If I was to go among them tomorrow Ill lay a wager theyd take no notice of me unless I was to ask them to dinner And a man may soon eat up his substance if hes so over complaisant
Surely Major cried Camilla my brother cannot be much longer before he joins us—remembers us rather
Who else could desert or forget you cried the Major
Its a moot point whether hell come or no I see that said Mr Dubster quite enraged them young squires never know what to do for their fun I must needs say I think its pity but what hed been brought up to some calling Twould have steadied him a little I warrant He dont seem to know much of the troubles of life
A shower of rain now revived his hopes that the fear of being wet might bring him back not considering how little sportsmen regard wet jackets
However continued he its really a piece of good luck that he was not taken with a fancy to leave us upon my island and then we might all have been soused by this here rain and he could just as well have walked off with my bridge as with the ladder
Here to his inexpressible relief Lionel from the road hailed them and Camilla with emotion the most violent perceived Edgar was by his side
Mr Dubster however angry as well as glad very solemnly said I wonder Sir what you think my workmen has been doing all this time with nobody to look after them Besides that I promised a pot obeer to a lad to wheel me away all that rubbish that Id cut out of my grotto and its a good half days work do it who will and ten to one if theyve stirred a nail all left to themselves so
Pho pho man youve been too happy I hope to trouble your mind about business How do do my little girls how you have been entertained
This is a better joke to you than to us squire but pray Sir begging pardon how come you to forget what I told you about the Globe I know very well that they say its quite alleymode to make fun but I cant pretend as Im over fond of the custom
He then desired that at least if he would not get the ladder himself he would tell that other gentleman that was with him what he had done with it
Edgar having met Lionel and heard from him how and where he had left his sisters had impatiently ridden with him to their relief but when he saw that the Major made one in the little party and that he was standing by Camilla he felt hurt and amazed and proceeded no farther
Camilla believed herself careless of his opinion what she had heard from Miss Margland of his professed indifference gave her now as much resentment as at first it had caused her grief She thought such a declaration an unprovoked indignity she deigned not even to look at him resolved for ever to avoid him yet to prove herself at the same time unmortified and disengaged talked cheerfully with the Major
Lionel now producing the ladder ran up it to help his sisters to descend and Edgar dismounting could not resist entering the grounds to offer them his hand as they came down
Eugenia was first assisted for Camilla talked on with the Major as if not hearing she was called and Mr Dubster his complaisance wholly worn out next followed bowing low to everyone separately and begging pardon but saying he could really afford to waste no more time without going to give a little look after his workmen to see if they were alive or dead
At this time the horse of the Major by some accident breaking loose his master was forced to run down and Lionel scampered after to assist him
Camilla remained alone Edgar slowly mounting the ladder gravely offered his services but hastily leaning out of the window she pretended to be too much occupied in watching the motions of the Major and his horse to hear or attend to any thing else
A sigh now tore the heart of Edgar from doubt if this were preference to the Major or the first dawn of incipient coquetry but he called not upon her again he stood quietly behind till the horse was seized and the Major reascended the ladder They then stood at each side of it with offers of assistance
This appeared to Camilla a fortunate moment for making a spirited display of her indifference she gave her hand to the Major and slightly courtesying to Edgar as she passed was conducted to the carriage of her uncle
Lionel again was the only one who spoke in the short route to Etherington whence Eugenia without alighting returned to Cleves
CHAPTER IV
The Danger of Disguise
Edgar remained behind almost petrified he stood in the little building looking after them yet neither descending nor stirring till one of the workmen advanced to fetch the ladder He then hastily quitted the spot mounted his horse and galloped after the carriage though without any actual design to follow it or any formed purpose whither to go
The sight however of the Major pursuing the same route made him with deep disgust turn about and take the shortest road to Beech Park
He hardly breathed the whole way from indignation yet his wrath was without definition and nearly beyond comprehensibility even to himself till suddenly recurring to the lovely smile with which Camilla had accepted the assistance of Major Cerwood he involuntarily clasped his hands and called out O happy Major
Awakened by his ejaculation to the true state of his feelings he started as from a sword held at his breast Jealousy he cried am I reduced to so humiliating a passion Am I capable of love without trust Unhappy enough to cherish it with hope No I will not be such a slave to the delusions of inclination I will abandon neither my honour nor my judgment to my wishes It is not alone even her heart that can fully satisfy me its delicacy must be mine as well as its preference Jealousy is a passion for which my mind is not framed and which I must not find a torment but an impossibility
He now began to fear he had made a choice the most injudicious and that coquetry and caprice had only waited opportunity to take place of candour and frankness
Yet recollecting the disclaiming speeches he had been compelled to make at Cleves he thought if she had heard them she might be actuated by resentment Even then however her manner of shewing it was alarming and fraught with mischief He reflected with fresh repugnance upon the gay and dissipated society with which she was newly mixing and which from her extreme openness and facility might so easily yet so fatally sully the fair artlessness of her mind
He then felt tempted to hint to Mr Tyrold who viewing all things and all people in the best light rarely foresaw danger and never suspected deception the expediency of her breaking off this intercourse till she could pursue it under the security of her mothers penetrating protection But it occurred to him next it was possible the Major might have pleased her Ardent as were his own views they had never been declared while those of the Major seemed proclaimed without reserve He felt his face tingle at the idea though it nearly made his heart cease to beat and determined to satisfy his conjecture ere he took any measure for himself
To speak to her openly he thought the surest as well as fairest way and resolved with whatever anguish should he find the Major favoured to aid her choice in his fraternal character and then travel till he should forget her in every other
For this purpose it was necessary to make immediate enquiry into the situation of the Major and then if she would hear him relate to her the result well assured to gather the state of her heart upon this subject by her manner of attending to the least word by which it should be introduced
Camilla meanwhile was somewhat comforted by the exertion she had shewn and by her hopes it had struck Edgar with respect
The next morning Sir Hugh sent for her again and begged she would pass the whole day with her sister Eugenia and use all her pretty ways to amuse her for she had returned home the preceding morning quite moped with melancholy and had continued pining ever since refusing to leave her room even for meals yet giving no reason for her behaviour What had come to her he could not tell but to see her so went to his heart for she had always he said till now been chearful and even tempered though thinking over her learning made her not much of a young person
Camilla flew up stairs and found her with a look of despondence seated in a corner of her room which she had darkened by nearly shutting all the shutters
She knew but too well the rude shock she had received and sought to revive her with every expression of soothing kindness But she shook her head and continued mute melancholy and wrapt in meditation
More than an hour was spent thus the strict orders of Sir Hugh forbidding them any intrusion but when at length Camilla ventured to say Is it possible my dearest Eugenia the passing insolence of two or three brutal wretches can affect you thus deeply She awakened from her silent trance and raising her head while something bordering upon resentment began to kindle in her breast cried Spare me this question Camilla and I will spare you all reproach
What reproach my dear sister cried Camilla amazed what reproach have I merited
The reproach answered she solemnly that from me all my family merit the reproach of representing to me that thousands resembled me of assuring me I had nothing peculiar to myself though I was so unlike all my family—of deluding me into utter ignorance of my unhappy defects and then casting me all unconscious and unprepared into the wide world to hear them
She would now have shut herself into her bookcloset but Camilla forcing her way and almost kneeling to be heard conjured her to drive such cruel ideas from her mind and to treat the barbarous insults that she had suffered with the contempt they deserved
Camilla said she firmly I am no longer to be deceived nor trifled with I will no more expose to the light a form and face so hideous—I will retire from all mankind and end my destined course in a solitude that no one shall discover
Camilla terrified besought her to form no such plan bewailed the unfortunate adventure of the preceding day inveighed against the inhuman women and pleaded the love of all her family with the most energetic affection
Those women said she calmly are not to blame they have been untutored but not false and they have only uttered such truths as I ought to have learnt from my cradle My own blindness has been infatuated but it sprung from inattention and ignorance—It is now removed—Leave me Camilla give notice to my Uncle he must find me some retreat Tell all that has passed to my father I will myself write to my mother—and when my mind is more subdued and when sincerely and unaffectedly I can forgive you all from my heart I may consent to see you again
She then positively insisted upon being left
Camilla penetrated with her undeserved yet irremediable distress still continued at her door supplicating for readmittance in the softest terms but without any success till the second dinner bell summoned her down stairs She then fervently called upon her sister to speak once more and tell her what she must do and what say
Eugenia steadily answered You have already my commission I have no change to make in it
Unable to obtain anything further she painfully descended but the voice of her Uncle no sooner reached her ears from the dining parlour than shocked to convey to him so terrible a message she again ran up stairs and casting herself against her sisters door called out Eugenia I dare not obey you would you kill my poor Uncle My Uncle who loves us all so tenderly Would you afflict—would you make him unhappy
No not for the universe she answered opening the door and then more gently yet not less steadfastly looking at her I know she continued you are all very good I know all was meant for the best I know I must be a monster not to love you for the very error to which I am a victim—I forgive you therefore all and I blush to have felt angry—But yet—at the age of fifteen—at the instant of entering into the world—at the approach of forming a connection which—O Camilla what a time what a period to discover—to know—that I cannot even be seen without being derided and offended
Her voice here faltered and running to the window curtain she entwined herself in its folds and called out O hide me hide me from every human eye from every thing that lives and breathes Pursue me persecute me no longer but suffer me to abide by myself till my fortitude is better strengthened to meet my destiny
The least impatience from Eugenia was too rare to be opposed and Camilla who in common with all her family notwithstanding her extreme youth respected as much as she loved her sought only to appease her by promising compliance She gave to her therefore an unresisted though unreturned embrace and went to the diningparlour
Sir Hugh was much disappointed to see her without her sister but she evaded any account of her commission till the meal was over and then begged to speak with him alone
Gently and gradually she disclosed the source of the sadness of Eugenia but Sir Hugh heard it with a dismay that almost overwhelmed him All his contrition for the evils of which unhappily he had been the cause returned with severest force and far from opposing her scheme of retreat he empowered Camilla to offer her any residence she chose and to tell her he would keep out of her sight as the cause of all her misfortunes or give her the immediate possession and disposal of his whole estate if that would make her better amends than to wait till his death
This message was no sooner delivered to Eugenia than losing at once every angry impression she hastened down stairs and casting herself at the knees of her Uncle begged him to pardon her design and promised never to leave him while she lived
Sir Hugh most affectionately embracing her said—You are too good my dear a great deal too good to one who has used you so ill at the very time when you were too young to help yourself I have not a word to offer in my own behalf except to hope you will forgive me for the sake of its being all done out of pure ignorance
Alas my dearest Uncle all I owe to your intentions is the deepest gratitude and it is yours from the bottom of my heart Chance alone was my enemy and all I have to regret is that no one was sincere enough kind enough considerate enough to instruct me of the extent of my misfortunes and prepare me for the attacks to which I am liable
My dear girl said he while tears started into his eyes what you say nobody can reply to and I find I have been doing you one wrong after another instead of the least good for all this was by my own order which it is but fair to your brothers and sisters and father and mother and the servants to confess God knows I have faults enough of my own upon my head without taking another of pretending to have none
Eugenia now sought to condole him in her turn voluntarily promising to mix with the family as usual and only desiring to be excused from going abroad or seeing any strangers
My dear said he you shall judge just what you think fit which is the least thing I can do for you after your being so kind as to forgive me which I hope to do nothing in future not to deserve more meaning always to ask my brothers advice which might have saved me all my worst actions if I had done it sooner for Ive used poor Camilla no better except not giving her the small pox and that bad fall But dont hate me my dears if you can help it for it was none of it done for want of love only not knowing how to shew it in the proper manner which I hope youll excuse for the score of my bad education
O my Uncle cried Camilla throwing her arms round his neck while Eugenia embraced his knees what language is this for nieces who owe so much to your goodness and who next to their parents love you more than anything upon earth
You are both the best little girls in the world my dears and I need have nothing upon my conscience if you two pass it over which is a great relief to me for theres nobody else Ive used so bad as you two young girls which God knows goes to my heart whenever I think of it—Poor little innocents—what had you ever done to provoke me
The two sisters with the most virtuous emulation vied with each other in demonstrative affection till he was tolerably consoled
The rest of the day was ruffled but for one moment upon Sir Hughs answering to a proposition of Miss Margland for a party to the next Middleton races—that there was no refusing to let Eugenia take that pleasure after her behaving so nobly her face was then again overcast with the deepest gloom and she begged not to hear of the races nor of any other place public or private for going abroad as she meant during the rest of her life immoveably to remain at home
He looked much concerned but assured her she should be mistress in every thing
Camilla left them in the evening with a promise to return the next day and with every anxiety of her own lost in pity for her innocent and unfortunate sister
She was soon however called back to herself when with what light yet remained she saw Edgar ride up to the coach door
With indefatigable pains he had devoted the day to the search of information concerning the Major Of Mrs Arlbery he had learned that he was a man of fashion but small fortune and from the Ensign he had gathered that even that small fortune was gone and that the estate in which it was vested had been mortgaged for three thousand pounds to pay certain debts of honour
Edgar had already been to the Parsonage House but hearing Camilla was at Cleves had made a short visit and determined to walk his horse upon the road till he met the carriage of Sir Hugh believing he could have no better opportunity of seeing her alone
Yet when the coach upon his riding up to the door stopt he found himself in an embarrassment for which he was unprepared He asked how she did desired news of the health of all the family one by one and then struck by the coldness of her answers suffered the carriage to drive on
Confounded at so sudden a loss of all presence of mind he continued for a minute or two just where she left him and then galloped after the coach and again presented himself at its window
In a voice and manner the most hurried he apologised for this second detention But I believe he said some genius of officiousness has today taken possession of me for I began it upon a Quixote sort of enterprise and a spirit of knighterrantry seems willing to accompany me through it to the end
He stopt but she did not speak Her first sensation at his sight had been wholly indignant but when she found he had something to say which he knew not how to pronounce her curiosity was awakened and she looked earnest for an explanation
I know he resumed with considerable hesitation that to give advice and to give pain is commonly the same thing—I do not therefore mean—I have no intention—though so lately you allowed me a privilege never to be forgotten—
He could not get on and his embarrassment and this recollection soon robbed Camilla of every angry emotion She looked down but her countenance was full of sensibility and Edgar recovering his voice proceeded—
My Quixotism I was going to say of this morning though for a person of whom I know almost nothing would urge me to every possible effort—were I certain the result would give pleasure to the person for whom alone—since with regard to himself—I—it is merely——
Involved in expressions he knew not how to clear or to finish he was again without breath and Camilla raising her eyes looked at him with astonishment
Endeavouring then to laugh One would think cried he this same Quixotism had taken possession of my intellects and rendered them as confused as if instead of an agent I were a principal—
Still wholly in the dark as to his aim yet satisfied by these last words it had no reference to himself she now lost enough of the acuteness of her curiosity to dare avow what yet remained and begged him without further preface to be more explicit
Stammering he then said that the evident admiration with which a certain gentleman was seen to sigh in her train had awakened for him an interest which had induced some inquiries into the state of his prospects and expectations These he continued turn out to be though not high nor by any means adequate to—to——however they are such as some previous friendly exertions with settled future œconomy might render more propitious and for those previous exertions—Mr Tyrold has a claim which it would be the pride and happiness of my life to see him honour—if—if—
The if almost dropt inarticulated but he added—I shall make some further enquiries before I venture to say any more
For yourself then be they made Sir cried she suddenly seizing the whole of the meaning—not for me—whoever this person may be to whom you allude—to me he is utterly indifferent
A flash of involuntary delight beamed in the eyes of Edgar at these words he had almost thanked her he had almost dropt the reins of his horse to clasp his hands but filled only with her own emotions without watching his or waiting for any answer she coldly bid him good night and called to the coachman to drive fast home
Edgar however was left with a sunbeam of the most lively delight He is wholly indifferent to her he cried she is angry at my interference she has but acted a part in the apparent preference—and for me perhaps acted it
Momentary however was the pleasure such a thought could afford him—O Camilla he cried if indeed I might hope from you any partiality why act any part at all—how plain how easy how direct your road to my heart if but straightly pursued
CHAPTER V
Strictures on Deformity
Camilla went on to Etherington in deep distress every ray of hope was chaced from her prospects with a certainty more cruel though less offensive to her feelings than the crush given them by Miss Margland He cares not for me she cried he even destines me for another He is the willing agent of the Major he would portion me I suppose for him to accelerate the impossibility of ever thinking of me And I imagined he loved me—what a dream—what a dream—how has he deceived me—or alas how have I deceived myself
She rejoiced however that she had made so decided an answer with regard to Major Cerwood whom she could not doubt to be the person meant and who presented in such a point of view grew utterly odious to her
The tale she had to relate to Mr Tyrold of the sufferings and sad resolution of Eugenia obviated all comment upon her own disturbance He was wounded to the heart by the recital Alas he cried your wise and excellent mother always foresaw some mischief would ensue from the extreme caution used to keep this dear unfortunate child ignorant of her peculiar situation This dreadful shake might have been palliated at least if not spared by the lessons of fortitude that noble woman would have inculcated in her young and ductile mind But I could not resist the painful entreaties of my poor brother who thinking himself the author of her calamities believed he was responsible for saving her from feeling them and imagining all the world as softhearted as himself concluded that what her own family would not tell her she could never hear elsewhere But who should leave any events to the caprices of chance which the precautions of foresight can determine
These reflections and the thoughts of her sister led at once and aided Camilla to stifle her own unhappiness and for three days following she devoted herself wholly to Eugenia
On the morning of the fourth instead of sending the carriage Sir Hugh arrived himself to fetch Camilla and to tell his brother he must come also to give comfort to Eugenia for though he had thought the worst was over because she appeared quiet in his presence he had just surprised her in tears by coming upon her unawares He had done all he could he said in vain and nothing remained but for Mr Tyrold to try his hand himself For it is but justice he added to Dr Orkborne to say she is wiser than all our poor heads put together so that there is no answering her for want of sense.' He then told him to be sure to put one of his best sermons in his pocket to read to her
Mr Tyrold was extremely touched for his poor Eugenia yet said he had half an hours business to transact in the neighbourhood before he could go to Cleves Sir Hugh waited his time and all three then proceeded together
Eugenia received her Father with a deliberate coldness that shocked him He saw how profound was the impression made upon her mind not merely of her personal evils but of what she conceived to be the misconduct of her friends
After a little general discourse in which she bore no share he proposed walking in the park meaning there to take her aside with less formality than he could otherwise desire to speak with her alone
The ladies and Sir Hugh immediately looked for their hats or gloves but Eugenia saying she had a slight headache walked away to her room
This my dear brother cried Sir Hugh sorrowfully following her with his eyes is the very thing I wanted you for she says shell never more stir out of these doors as long as shes alive which is a sad thing to say considering her young years and nobody knowing how Clermont may approve it However its well Ive had him brought up from the beginning to the classics which I rejoice at every day more and more it being the only wise thing I ever did of my own head for as to talking Latin and Greek which I suppose is what they will chiefly be doing theres no doubt but they may do it just as well in a room as in the fields or the streets
Mr Tyrold after a little consideration followed her He tapped at her door she asked in a tone of displeasure who was there—Your Father my dear he answered and then hastily opening it she proposed returning with him down stairs
No he said I wish to converse with you alone The opinion I have long cherished of your heart and your understanding I come now to put to the proof
Eugenia certain of the subject to which he would lead and feeling she could not have more to hear than to say gave him a chair and composedly seated herself next to him
My dear Eugenia said he taking her passive hand this is the moment that more grievously than ever I lament the absence of your invaluable Mother All I have to offer to your consideration she could much better have laid before you and her dictates would have met with the attention they so completely deserve
Was my Mother then Sir said she reproachfully unapprized of the worldly darkness in which I have been brought up Is she unacquainted that a little knowledge of books and languages is what alone I have been taught
We are all but too apt answered Mr Tyrold mildly though surprised to deem nothing worth attaining but what we have missed nothing worth possessing but what we are denied How many are there amongst the untaught and unaccomplished who would think an escape such as yours of all intellectual darkness a compensation for every other evil
They could think so only Sir while like me they lived immured always in the same house were seen always by the same people and were total strangers to the sensations they might excite in any others
My dear Eugenia grieved as I am at the present subject of your ruminations I rejoice to see in you a power of reflection and of combination so far above your years And it is a soothing idea to me to dwell upon the ultimate benevolence of Providence even in circumstances the most afflicting for if chance has been unkind to you Nature seems with fostering foresight to have endowed you with precisely those powers that may best set aside her malignity
I see Sir cried she a little moved the kindness of your intention but pardon me if I anticipate to you its ill success I have thought too much upon my situation and my destiny to admit any fallacious comfort Can you indeed when once her eyes are opened can you expect to reconcile to existence a poor young creature who sees herself an object of derision and disgust Who without committing any crime without offending any human being finds she cannot appear but to be pointed at scoffed and insulted
O my child with what a picture do you wound my heart and tear your own peace and happiness Wretches who in such a light can view outward deficiencies cannot merit a thought are below even contempt and ought not to be disdained but forgotten Make a conquest then my Eugenia of yourself be as superior in your feelings as in your understanding and remember what Addison admirably says in one of the Spectators A too acute sensibility of personal defects is one of the greatest weaknesses of self-love
I should be sorry Sir you should attribute to vanity what I now suffer No it is simply the effect of never hearing never knowing that so severe a call was to be made upon my fortitude and therefore never arming myself to sustain it
Then suddenly and with great emotion clasping her hands O if ever I have a family of my own she cried my first care shall be to tell my daughters of all their infirmities They shall be familiar from their childhood to their every defect—Ah they must be odious indeed if they resemble their poor mother
My dearest Eugenia let them but resemble you mentally and there is no person whose approbation is worth deserving that will not love and respect them Good and evil are much more equally divided in this world than you are yet aware none possess the first without alloy nor the second without palliation Indiana for example, now in the full bloom of all that beauty can bestow tell me and ask yourself strictly would you change with Indiana
With Indiana she exclaimed O I would forfeit every other good to change with Indiana Indiana who never appears but to be admired who never speaks but to be applauded
Yet a little yet a moment question and understand yourself before you settle you would change with her Look forward and look inward Look forward that you may view the short life of admiration and applause for such attractions from others and their inutility to their possessor in every moment of solitude or repose and look inward that you may learn to value your own peculiar riches for times of retirement and for days of infirmity and age
Indeed Sir—and pray believe me I do not mean to repine I have not the beauty of Indiana I know and have always heard her loveliness is beyond all comparison I have no more therefore thought of envying it than of envying the brightness of the sun I knew too I bore no competition with my sisters but I never dreamt of competition I knew I was not handsome but I supposed many people besides not handsome and that I should pass with the rest and I concluded the world to be full of people who had been sufferers as well as myself by disease or accident These have been occasionally my passing thoughts but the subject never seized my mind I never reflected upon it at all till abuse without provocation all at once opened my eyes and shewed me to myself Bear with me then my father in this first dawn of terrible conviction Many have been unfortunate—but none unfortunate like me Many have met with evils—but who with an accumulation like mine
Mr Tyrold extremely affected embraced her with the utmost tenderness My dear deserving excellent child he cried what would I not endure what sacrifice not make to soothe this cruel disturbance till time and your own understanding can exert their powers Then while straining her to his breast with the fondest parental commiseration the tears with which his eyes were overflowing bedewed her cheeks
Eugenia felt them and sinking to the ground pressed his knees O my father she cried a tear from your revered eyes afflicts me more than all else Let me not draw forth another lest I should become not only unhappy but guilty Dry them up my dearest father—let me kiss them away
Tell me then my poor girl you will struggle against this ineffectual sorrow Tell me you will assert that fortitude which only waits for your exertion and tell me you will forgive the misjudging compassion which feared to impress you earlier with pain
I will do all every thing you desire my injustice is subdued my complaints shall be hushed you have conquered me my beloved father Your indulgence your lenity shall take place of every hardship and leave me nothing but filial affection
Seizing this grateful moment he then required of her to relinquish her melancholy scheme of seclusion from the world The shyness and the fears which gave birth to it said he will but grow upon you if listened to and they are not worthy the courage I would instil into your bosom—the courage my Eugenia of virtue—the courage to pass by as if unheard the insolence of the hardhearted and ignorance of the vulgar Happiness is in your power though beauty is not and on that to set too high a value would be pardonable only in a weak and frivolous mind since whatever is the involuntary admiration with which it meets every estimable quality and accomplishment is attainable without it and though which I cannot deny its immediate influence is universal, yet in every competition and in every decision of esteem the superior the elegant the better part of mankind give their suffrages to merit alone And you in particular will find yourself through life rather the more than the less valued by every mind capable of justice and compassion for misfortunes which no guilt has incurred
Observing her now to be softened though not absolutely consoled he rang the bell and begged the servant who answered it to request his brother would order the coach immediately as he was obliged to return home And you my love said he shall accompany me it will be the least exertion you can make in first breaking through your averseness to quit the house
Eugenia would not resist but her compliance was evidently repugnant to her inclination and in going to the glass to put on her hat she turned aside from it in shuddering and hid her face with both her hands
My dearest child cried Mr Tyrold wrapping her again in his arms this strong susceptibility will soon wear away but you cannot be too speedy nor too firm in resisting it The omission of what never was in our power cannot cause remorse and the bewailing what never can become in our power cannot afford comfort Imagine but what would have been the fate of Indiana had your situations been reversed and had she who can never acquire your capacity and therefore never attain your knowledge lost that beauty which is her all but which to you even if retained could have been but a secondary gift How short will be the reign of that all how useless in sickness how unavailing in solitude how inadequate to long life how forgotten or repiningly remembered in old age You will live to feel pity for all you now covet and admire to grow sensible to a lot more lastingly happy in your own acquirements and powers and to exclaim with contrition and wonder Time was when I would have changed with the poor minddependent Indiana
The carriage was now announced Eugenia with reluctant steps descended Camilla was called to join them and Sir Hugh saw them set off with the utmost delight
CHAPTER VI
Strictures on Beauty
To lengthen the airing Mr Tyrold ordered the carriage by a new road and to induce Eugenia to break yet another spell in walking as well as riding he proposed their alighting when they came to a lane and leaving the coach in waiting while they took a short stroll
He walked between his daughters a considerable way passing wherever it was possible close to cottages labourers and children Eugenia submitted with a sigh but held down her head affrighted at every fresh object they encountered till upon approaching a small miserable hut at the door of which several children were playing an unlucky boy called out O come come look—heres the little humpback gentlewoman
She then clinging to her father could not stir another step and cast upon him a look of appeal and reproach that almost overset him but after speaking to her some words of kindness he urged her to go on and alone saying Throw only a shilling to the senseless little crew and let Camilla follow and give nothing and see which will become the most popular
They both obeyed Eugenia fearfully and with quickness casting amongst them some silver and Camilla quietly walking on
O I have got a sixpence cried one and Ive got a shilling said another while the mother of the little tribe came from her washtub and called out God bless your ladyship and the father quitted a little garden at the side of his cottage to bow down to the ground and cry Heaven reward you good madam youll have a blessing go with you go where you will
The children then dancing up to Camilla begged her charity but when seconding the palpable intention of her father she said she had nothing for them they looked highly dissatisfied while they redoubled their blessings to Eugenia
See my child said Mr Tyrold now joining them how cheaply preference and even flattery may be purchased
Ah Sir she answered recovered from her terrour yet deep in reflection this is only by bribery and gross bribery too And what pleasure or what confidence can accrue from preference so earned
The means my dear Eugenia are not beneath the objects: if it is only from those who unite native hardness with uncultured minds and manners that civility is to be obtained by such sordid materials remember also it is from such only it can ever fail you In the lowest life equally with the highest wherever nature has been kind sympathy springs spontaneously for whatever is unfortunate and respect for whatever seems innocent Steel yourself then firmly to withstand attacks from the cruel and unfeeling and rest perfectly secure you will have none other to apprehend
The clear and excellent capacity of Eugenia comprehended in this lesson and its illustration all the satisfaction Mr Tyrold hoped to impart and she was ruminating upon it with abated despondence when as they came to a small house surrounded with a high wall Mr Tyrold looking through an iron gate at a female figure who stood at one of the windows exclaimed—What a beautiful creature I have rarely I think seen a more perfect face
Eugenia felt so much hurt by this untimely sight that after a single glance which confirmed the truth of what he said she bent her eyes another way while Camilla herself was astonished that her kind father should call their attention to beauty at so sore and critical a juncture
The examination of a fine picture said he fixing his eyes upon the window and standing still at the iron gate is a constant as well as exquisite pleasure for we look at it with an internal security that such as it appears to us today it will appear again tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow but in the pleasure given by the examination of a fine face there is always to a contemplative mind some little mixture of pain an idea of its fragility steals upon our admiration and blends with it something like solicitude the consciousness how short a time we can view it perfect how quickly its brilliancy of bloom will be blown and how ultimately it will be nothing—
You would have me Sir said Eugenia now raising her eyes learn to see beauty with unconcern by depreciating its value I feel your kind intention but it does not come home to me reasoning such as this may be equally applicable to any thing else and degrade whatever is desirable into insignificance
No my dear child there is nothing either in its possession or its loss that can be compared with beauty nothing so evanescent and nothing that leaves behind it a contrast which impresses such regret It cannot be forgotten since the same features still remain though they are robbed of their effect upon the beholder the same complexion is there though faded into a tint bearing no resemblance with its original state and the same eyes present themselves to the view though bereft of all the lustre that had rendered them captivating
Ah Sir this is an argument but formed for the moment Is not the loss of youth the same to every body and is not age equally unwelcome to the ugly and to the handsome
For activity for strength and for purposes of use certainly my dear girl there can be no difference but for motives to mental regret there can be no comparison To those who are commonly moulded the gradual growth of decay brings with it its gradual endurance because little is missed from day to day hope is not roughly chilled nor expectation rudely blasted they see their friends their connections their contemporaries declining by the same laws and they yield to the immutable and general lot rather imperceptibly than resignedly but it is not so with the beauty her loss is not only general but peculiar and it is the peculiar not the general evil that constitutes all hardship Health strength agility and animal spirits she may sorrowing feel diminish but she hears everyone complain of similar failures and she misses them unmurmuring though not unlamenting but of beauty every declension is marked with something painful to selflove The change manifested by the mirror might patiently be borne but the change manifested in the eyes of every beholder gives a shock that does violence to every pristine feeling
This may certainly sir be cruel trying at least but then—what a youth has she first passed Mortification comes upon her at least in succession she does not begin the world with it—a stranger at all periods to anything happier
Ah my child the happiness caused by personal attractions pays a dear afterprice The soldier who enters the field of battle requires not more courage though of a different nature than the faded beauty who enters an assemblyroom To be wholly disregarded after engaging every eye to be unassisted after being habituated to seeing crowds anxiously offer their services to be unheard after monopolising every ear—can you indeed persuade yourself a change such as this demands but ordinary firmness Yet the altered female who calls for it has the least chance to obtain it for even where nature has endowed her with fortitude the world and its flatteries have almost uniformly enervated it before the season of its exertion
All this may be true said Eugenia with a sigh and to me however sad in itself, it may prove consolatory and yet—forgive my sincerity when I own—I would purchase a better appearance at any price any expence any payment the world could impose
Mr Tyrold was preparing an answer when the door of the house which he had still continued facing was opened and the beautiful figure which had for some time retired from the window rushed suddenly upon a lawn before the gate against which they were leaning
Not seeing them she sat down upon the grass which she plucked up by hands full and strewed over her fine flowing hair
Camilla fearing they should seem impertinent would have retreated but Eugenia much struck sadly yet with earnestness compelled herself to regard the object before her who was young fair of a tall and striking figure with features delicately regular
A sigh not to be checked acknowledged how little either reasoning or eloquence could subdue a wish to resemble such an appearance when the young person flinging herself suddenly upon her face threw her white arms over her head and sobbed aloud with violence
Astonished and deeply concerned Eugenia internally said alas what a world is this even beauty so exquisite without waiting for age or change may be thus miserable
She feared to speak lest she should be heard but she looked up to her father with an eye that spoke concession and with an interest for the fair afflicted which seemed to request his assistance
He motioned to her to be quiet when the young person abruptly half rising burst into a fit of loud shrill and discordant laughter
Eugenia now utterly confounded would have drawn her father away but he was intently engaged in his observations and steadily kept his place
In two minutes the laugh ceased all at once and the young creature hastily rising began turning round with a velocity that no machine could have exceeded
The sisters now fearfully interchanged looks that shewed they thought her mad and both endeavoured to draw Mr Tyrold from the gate but in vain he made them hold by his arms and stood still
Without seeming giddy she next began to jump and he now could only detain his daughters by shewing them the gate at which they stood was locked
In another minute she perceived them and coming eagerly forward dropt several low courtesies saying at every fresh bend—Good day—Good day—Good day
Equally trembling they now both turned pale with fear but Mr Tyrold who was still immovable answered her by a bow and asked if she were well
Give me a shilling was her reply while the slaver drivelled unrestrained from her mouth rendering utterly disgusting a chin that a statuary might have wished to model
Do you live at this house said Mr Tyrold
Yes please—yes please—yes please she answered twenty times following and almost black in the face before she would allow herself to take another breath
A cat now appearing at the door she seized it and tried to twine it round her neck with great fondling wholly unresisting the scratches which tore her fine skin
Next capering forward with it towards the gate Look look she cried heres puss—heres puss—heres puss
Then letting it fall she tore her handkerchief off her neck put it over her face strained it as tight as she was able and tied it under her chin and then struck her head with both her hands making a noise that resembled nothing human
Take take me away my father cried Eugenia I see I feel your awful lesson but impress it no further lest I die in receiving it
Mr Tyrold immediately moved off without speaking Camilla penetrated for her sister observed the same silence and Eugenia hanging upon her father and absorbed in profound rumination only by the depth of her sighs made her existence known and thus without the interchange of a word slowly and pensively they walked back to the carriage
Eugenia broke the silence as soon as they were seated O my father she exclaimed what a sight have you made me witness how dread a reproof have you given to my repining spirit Did you know this unhappy beauty was at that house Did you lead me thither purposely to display to me her shocking imbecility
Relying upon the excellence of your understanding I ventured upon an experiment more powerful I well knew than all that reason could urge an experiment not only striking at the moment but which by playing upon the imagination as well as convincing the judgment must make an impression that can never be effaced I have been informed for some time that this poor girl was in our neighbourhood she was born an idiot and therefore having never known brighter days is insensible to her terrible state Her friends are opulent and that house is taken and a woman is paid to keep her in existence and in obscurity I had heard of her uncommon beauty and when the news reached me of my dear Eugenias distress the idea of this meeting occurred to me I rode to the house and engaged the woman to detain her unfortunate charge at the window till we appeared and then to let her loose into the garden Poor ill fated young creature it has been indeed a melancholy sight
A sight cried Eugenia to come home to me with shame—O my dear Father your prescription strikes to the root of my disease—shall I ever again dare murmur—will any egotism ever again make me believe no lot so hapless as my own I will think of her when I am discontented I will call to my mind this spectacle of human degradation—and submit at least with calmness to my lighter evils and milder fate
My excellent child this is just what I expected from the candour of your temper and the rectitude of your sentiments You have seen here the value of intellects in viewing the horrour of their loss and you have witnessed that beauty without mind is more dreadful than any deformity You have seized my application and left me nothing to enforce my dear my excellent child you have left for your fond Father nothing but tender approbation With the utmost thankfulness to Providence I have marked from your earliest childhood the native justness of your understanding which with your studious inclination to sedentary accomplishments has proved a reviving source of consolation to your mother and to me for the cruel accidents we have incessantly lamented How will that admirable mother rejoice in the recital I have to make to her What pride will she take in a daughter so worthily her own so resembling her in nobleness of nature, and a superior way of thinking Her tears my child like mine will thank you for your exertions she will strain you to her fond bosom as your father strains you at this moment
Yes Sir cried Eugenia your kind task is now completed with your vanquished Eugenia her thoughts her occupations her happiness shall henceforth all be centred in filial gratitude and contentment
The affectionate Camilla throwing her arms about them both bathed each with the tears of joy and admiration which this soothing conclusion to an adventure so severe excited
CHAPTER VII
The Pleadings of Pity
To oblige Mr Tyrold who had made the arrangement with Sir Hugh Eugenia consented to dine and spend the day at Etherington which she quitted at night in a temper of mind perfectly composed
Camilla was deeply penetrated by the whole of this affair The sufferings so utterly unearned by fault or by folly of a sister so dear to her and the affecting fortitude which so quickly upon her wounds and at so early a period of life she already began to display made her blush at the dejection into which she was herself cast by every evil and resolve to become in future more worthy of the father and the sister who at this moment absorbed all her admiration
Too reasonable in such a frame of mind to plan forgetting Mandlebert she now only determined to think of him as she had thought before her affections became entangled to think of him in short as he seemed himself to desire to seek his friendly offices and advice but to reject every offered establishment and to live single for life
Gratified by indulgent praise and sustained by exerted virtue the revived Eugenia had nearly reached Cleves on her return when the carriage was stopt by a gentleman on horseback who approaching the coach window said in a low voice as if unwilling to be heard by the servants—O Madam has Fate set aside her cruelty and does Fortune permit me to live once more
She then recollected Mr Bellamy She had only her maid in the carriage who was sent for her by Sir Hugh Miss Margland being otherwise engaged
All that had so lately passed upon her person and appearance being full upon her mind she involuntarily shrunk back hiding her face with her cloak
Bellamy by no means conceiving this mark of emotion to be unfavourable steadied his horse by leaning one hand on the coachwindow and said in a yet lower voice—O Madam is it possible you can hate me so barbarously—will you not even deign to look at me though I have so long been banished from your presence
Eugenia during this speech called to mind that though new in some measure to herself she was not so to this gentleman and ventured to uncover her face when the grief painted on the fine features of Bellamy so forcibly touched her that she softly answered—No Sir indeed I do not hate you I am incapable of such ingratitude but I conjure—I beseech you to forget me
Forget you—O Madam you command an impossibility—No I am constancy itself, and not all the world united shall tear you from my heart
Jacob who caught a word or two now rode up to the other window and as Eugenia began—Conquer Sir I entreat you this illfated partiality— told her the horses had been hardworked and must go home
As Jacob was the oracle of Sir Hugh about his horses his will was prescriptive law Eugenia never disputed it and only saying—Think of me Sir no more bid the coachman drive on
Bellamy respectfully submitting continued with his hat in his hand as the maid informed her mistress looking after the carriage till it was out of sight
A tender sorrow now stole upon the just revived tranquillity of the gentle and generous Eugenia Ah thought she I have rendered little as I seem worthy of such power I have rendered this amiable man miserable though possibly and probably he is the only man in existence whom I could render happy—Ah how may I dare expect from Clermont a similar passion
Molly Mill a very young girl and daughter of a poor tenant of Sir Hugh interrupted these reflections from time to time with remarks upon their object Dearee me Miss she cried what a fine gentleman that was—he sighed like to split his heart when you said dont think about me no more Hes some loveyer like Im sure
Eugenia returned home so much moved by this incident that Sir Hugh believing his brother himself had failed to revive her was disturbed all anew with acute contrition for her disasters and feeling very unwell went to bed before supper time
Eugenia retired also and after spending the evening in soft compassion for Bellamy and unfixed apprehensions and distaste for young Lynmere was preparing to go to bed when Molly Mill out of breath with haste brought her a letter
She eagerly opened it whilst enquiring whence it came
O Miss the fine gentleman—that same fine gentleman—brought it himself and he sent for me out and I did not know who I was to go to for Mary only said a boy wanted me but the boy said I must come with him to the stile and when I come there who should I see but the fine gentleman himself And he gave me this letter and he asked me to give it you—and see look Miss what I got for my trouble
She then exhibited a halfguinea
You have not done right Molly in accepting it Money is bribery and you should have known that the letter was improperly addressed if bribery was requisite to make it delivered
Dearee me Miss whats halfaguinea to such a gentleman as that I dare say hes got his pockets full of them
I shall not read it certainly cried Eugenia now I know this circumstance Give me the wax—I will seal it again
She then hesitated whether she ought to return it or shew it to her uncle or commit it to the flames
That to which she was most unwilling appeared to the strictness of her principles to be most proper she therefore determined that the next morning she would relate her evenings adventure and deliver the unread letter to Sir Hugh
Had this epistle not perplexed her she had meant never to name its writer Persuaded her last words had finally dismissed him she thought it a high point of female delicacy never to publish an unsuccessful conquest
This resolution taken she went to bed satisfied with herself but extremely grieved at the sufferings she was preparing for one who so singularly loved her
The next morning however her uncle did not rise to breakfast and was so low spirited that fearing to disturb him she deemed it most prudent to defer the communication
But when after she had taken her lesson from Dr Orkborne she returned to her room she found Molly Mill impatiently waiting for her O Miss she cried heres another letter for you and you must read it directly for the gentleman says if you dont it will be the death of him
Why did you receive another letter said Eugenia displeased
Dearee me Miss how could I help it if youd seen the taking he was in youd have took it yourself He was all of a quake and ready to go down of his two knees Dearee me if it did not make my heart go pitpat to see him He was like to go out of his mind he said and the tears poor gentleman were all in his eyes
Eugenia now turned away strongly affected by this description
Do Miss continued Molly write him a little scrap if its never so scratched and bad Hell take it kinder than nothing Do Miss do Dont be illnatured And just read this little letter do Miss do—it wont take you much time you reads so nice and fast
Why cried Eugenia did you go to him again how could you so incautiously entrust yourself to the conduct of a strange boy
A strange boy dearee me Miss dont you know it was Tommy Hodd I knows him well enough I knows all the boys I warrant me round about here Come Miss heres pen and ink youll run it off before one can count five when youve a mind to it Hell be in a sad taking till he sees me come back
Come back is it possible you have been so imprudent as to have promised to see him again
Dearee me yes Miss hed have made away with himself if I had not Hed been there ever since six in the morning without nothing to eat or drink a riding up and down the road till he could see me coming to the stile And he says hell keep a riding there all day long and all night too till I goes to him
Eugenia conceived herself now in a situation of unexampled distress She forced Molly Mill to leave her that she might deliberate what course to pursue
Having read no novels her imagination had never been awakened to scenes of this kind and what she had gathered upon such subjects in the poetry and history she had studied with Dr Orkborne had only impressed her fancy in proportion as love bore the character of heroism and the lover that of an hero Though highly therefore romantic her romance was not the common adoption of a circulating library it was simply that of elevated sentiments formed by animated credulity playing upon youthful inexperience
Alas cried she what a conflict is mine I must refuse a man who adores me to distraction in disregard of my unhappy defects to cast myself under the guidance of one who perhaps may estimate beauty so highly as to despise me for its want
This idea pleaded so powerfully for Bellamy that something like a wish to open his letters obtained pardon to her little maid for having brought them She suppressed however the desire though she held them alternately to her eyes conjecturing their contents and bewailing for their impassioned writer the cruel answer they must receive
Though checked by shame she had some desire to consult Camilla but she could not see her in time Mrs Arlbery having insisted upon carrying her in the evening to a play which was to be performed for one night only by a company of passing strollers at Northwick
My decision she cried must be my own and must be immediate Ah how leave a man such as this to wander night and day neglected and uncertain of his fate With tears he sent me his letters—what must not have been his despair when such was his sensibility tears in a man—tears too that could not be restrained even till his messenger was out of sight—how touching—
Her own then fell in tender commiseration and it was with extreme repugnance she compelled herself to take such measures as she thought her duty required She sealed the two letters in an empty cover and having directed them to Mr Bellamy summoned Molly Mill and told her to convey them to the gentleman and positively acquaint him she must receive no more and that those which were returned had never been read She bid her however add that she should always wish for his happiness and be grateful for his kind partiality though she earnestly conjured him to vanquish a regard which she did not deserve and must never return
Molly Mill would fain have remonstrated but Eugenia with that firmness which even in the first youth accompanies a consciousness of preferring duty to inclination silenced and sent her off
Relieved for herself now the struggle was over she secretly rejoiced that it was not for Melmond she had so hard a part to act and this idea while it rendered Bellamy less an object of regret diminished also something of her pity for his conflict by reminding her of the success which had attended her own similar exertions
But when Molly returned her distress was renewed she brought her these words written with a pencil upon the back of her own cover
I do not dare cruellest of your sex to write you another letter but if you would save me from the abyss of destruction you will let me hear my final doom from your own mouth I ask nothing more Ah walk but one moment in the park near the pales deny not your miserable adorer this last single request and he will fly this fatal climate which has swallowed up his repose for ever But till then here he will stay and never quit the spot whence he sends you these lines till you have deigned to pronounce verbally his doom though he should famish for want of food
Alphonso Bellamy
Eugenia read this with horrour and compassion She imagined he perhaps thought her confined and would therefore believe no answer that did not issue immediately from her own lips She sent Molly to him again with the same message but Molly returned with a yet worse account of his desperation and a strong assurance that if she would only utter to him a single word he would obey depart and live upon it the rest of his life
This completely softened her Rather than imperiously suffer such a pattern of respectful constancy to perish she consented to speak her own negative But fearing she might be moved to some sympathy by his grief she resolved to be accompanied by Camilla and deferred therefore the interview till the next day
Molly brought back his humble acknowledgments for this concession and an account that at last slowly and sadly he had ridden away
Her feelings were now better satisfied than her understanding She feared what she had granted was a favour yet her heart was too tender to reproach a compliance made upon such conditions and to prevent such evils
CHAPTER VIII
The disastrous Buskins
Camilla though her personal sorrows were blunted by the view of the calamities and resignation of her sister was so little disposed for amusement that she had accepted the invitation of Mrs Arlbery only from wanting spirit to resist its urgency Mr Tyrold was well pleased that such a recreation came in her way but desired Lavinia might be of the party not only that she might partake of the same pleasure but from a greater security in her prudence than in that of her naturally thoughtless sister
The town of Etherington afforded no theatre and the room fitted up for the nights performance could contain but two boxes one of which was secured for Mrs Arlbery and her friends
The attentive Major was ready to offer his hand to Camilla upon her arrival The rest of the officers were in the box
The play was Othello and so miserably represented that Lavinia would willingly have retired after the first scene but the native spirits of Camilla revisited her in the view of the ludicrous personages of the drama And they were soon joined by Sir Sedley Clarendel whose quaint conceits and remarks assisted the risibility of the scene She thought him the least comprehensible person she had ever known but as he was totally indifferent to her his oddity entertained without tormenting her
The actors were of the lowest strolling kind and so utterly without merit that they had never yet met with sufficient encouragement to remain one week in the same place They had only a single scene for the whole performance which depictured a camp and which here served for a street a senate a city a castle and a bedchamber
The dresses were almost equally parsimonious everyone being obliged to take what would fit him from a wardrobe that did not allow quite two dresses a person for all the plays they had to enact Othello therefore was equipped as king Richard the third save that instead of a regal front he had a black wig to imitate wool while his face had been begrimed with a smoked cork
Iago wore a suit of cloaths originally made for Lord Foppington Brabantio had borrowed the armour of Hamlets Ghost Cassio the Lieutenant General in the christian army had only been able to equip himself in Osmyns Turkish vest and Roderigo accoutred in the garment of Shylock came forth a complete Jew
Desdemona attired more suitably to her fate than to her expectations went through the whole of her part except the last scene in the sable weeds of Isabella And Amelia was fain to content herself with the habit of the first witch in Macbeth
The gestures both of the gentlemen and ladies were as outrageous as if meant rather to intimidate the audience than to shew their own animation and the men approached each other so closely with arms akimbo or double fists that Sir Sedley with pretended alarm said they were giving challenges for a boxing match
The ladies also in the energy of their desire not to be eclipsed took so much exercise in their action that they tore out the sleeves of their gowns which though pinned up every time they left the stage completely exposed their shoulders at the end of every act and they raised their arms so high while facing each other that Sir Sedley expressed frequent fears they meant to finish by pulling caps
So imperfect were they also in their parts that the prompter was the only person from whom any single speech passed without a blunder
Iago who was the master of the troop was the sole performer who spoke not with a provincial dialect the rest all betrayed their birth and parentage the first line they uttered
Cassio proclaimed himself from Norfolk
The Deuk dew greet yew General
—— —— —— —— —— ——
Being not at yewre lodging to be feund—— ——
The senate sent above tree several quests c
Othello himself proved a true Londoner and with his famed soldierlike eloquence in the senatescene thus began his celebrated defence
Most potent grawe and rewerend Seignors
My wery noble and approwed good masters
That I have taen avay this old mans darter—
I vill a round unwarnishd tale deliver
Of my whole course of love vhat drugs vhat charms
Vhat conjuration and vhat mighty magic
I von his darter with—— ——
Her father lovd me oft inwited me—— ——
—— —— ——My story being done
She gave me for my pains a vorld of sighs
She svore in faith tvas strange tvas passing strange
Tvas pitiful tvas vondrous pitiful
She vishd she had not heard it yet she vishd
That Heawen had made her such a man—— ——
This only is the vitchcraft I have usd
Here comes the lady let her vitness it
This happily making the gentle Desdemona recognised notwithstanding her appearance was so little bridal her Somersetshire father cried
I preay you hear ur zpeak
If a confez that a waz half the woer
Deztruction on my head if my bead bleame
Light o the mon
His daughter in the Worcestershire pronunciation answered
Noble father
Hi do perceive ere a divided duty
To you hi howe my life hand heducation
My life hand heducation both do teach me
Ow to respect you Youre the lord hof duty
Him itherto your daughter but eres my usband——
The fond Othello then exclaimed
Your woices lords beseech you let her vill
Have a free vay— — —
And Brabantio took leave with
Look tour Moor if th azt eyez to zee
A haz deceivd ur veather and may thee—
They were detained so long between the first and second act that Sir Sedley said he feared poor Desdemona had lost the threadpaper from which she was to mend her gown and recommended to the two young ladies to have the charity to go and assist her Consider he said the trepidation of a fair bride but just entered into her shackles Who knows but Othello may be giving her a strapping in private for wearing out her cloaths so fast you young ladies think nothing of these little conjugal freedoms
Mrs Arlbery though for some time she had been as well diverted by the play as Camilla less new to such exhibitions was soon tired of the sameness of the blunders and at the end of the fourth act proposed retiring But Camilla who had long not felt so much entertained looked so disappointed that her good humour overcame her fatigue and she was insisting upon staying when a gentleman who visited them from the opposite box proposed that the young ladies should be carried home by his mother a lady who lived at Etherington and was acquainted at the rectory and who intended to stay out not only the play but the farce Lavinia consented the son went with the proposition, and the business was soon arranged Mrs Arlbery who had three miles to go beyond the parsonagehouse and who though she delighted to oblige was but little in the habit of practising selfdenial then consigned the young ladies to General Kinsale to be conducted to the opposite box and was handed by Colonel Andover to her coach
The General guarded the eldest sister the Major took care of Camilla but they were all stopt in their passage by the sudden seizure of a pickpocket and forced hastily back to the box they had quitted
This commotion though it had disturbed all the audience had not stopt the performance and Desdemona being just now discovered in bed Camilla not to lose the interesting scene persuaded her sister to wait till the play was over before they attempted again to cross to the opposite box into which in a few minutes after she saw Mandlebert enter
They had both already seated themselves as much out of sight as possible and Camilla now began to regret she had not accompanied Mrs Arlbery She had thought only of the play and its entertainment till the sight of Mandlebert told her that her situation was improper and the idea only occurred to her by considering that it would occur to him
Mandlebert had dined out with a party of men and had stept in to see what was going forwards without any knowledge whom he should meet he instantly discerned Lavinia and felt anxious to know why Camilla was not with her and why she sat so much out of sight but Camilla so completely hid herself he could only see there was a female whom he concluded to be some Etherington lady and he determined to make further enquiry when the act should be over
The performance now became so truly ludicrous that Camilla notwithstanding all her uneasiness was excited to almost perpetual laughter
Desdemona either from the effect of a bad cold or to give more of nature to her repose breathed so hard as to raise a general laugh in the audience Sir Sedley stopping his ears exclaimed O if she snores I shall plead for her no more if she tear her gown to tatters Suffocation is much too lenient for her Shes an immense horrid personage nasal to alarm
Othello then entered with a tallow candle in his hand staring and dropping grease at every step and having just declared he would not
Scar that vhiter skin of hers than snow
perceived a thief in the candle which made it run down so fast over his hand and the sleeve of his coat that the moment not being yet arrived for extinguishing it he was forced to lay down his sword and for want of better means snuff it with his fingers
Sir Sedley now protested himself completely disordered I must be gone cried he incontinently this exceeds resistance I shant be alive in another minute Are you able to form a notion of anything more annihilating If I did not build upon the pleasure of seeing him stop up those distressing nostrils of the gentle Desdemona I could not breathe here another instant
But just after while Othello leant over the bed to say—
Vhen Ive pluckd the rose
I cannot give it wital growth again
It needs must vither——
his black locks caught fire
The candle now fell from his hand and he attempted to pull off his wig but it had been tied close on to appear more natural and his fright disabled him he therefore flung himself upon the bed and rolled the coverlid over his head
Desdemona excessively frightened started up and jumped out shrieking aloud—O Lord I shall be burnt
This noble Venetian Dame then exhibited beneath an old white satin bedgown made to cover her arms and breast the dress in which she had equipped herself between the acts to be ready for trampling home namely a dirty red and white linen gown an old blue stuff quilted coat and black shoes and stockings
In this pitiable condition she was running screaming off the stage when Othello having quenched the fire unconscious that half his curls had fallen a sacrifice to the flames hastily pursued her and in a violent passion called her a fool and brought her back to the bed in which he assisted her to compose herself and then went behind the scenes to light his candle which having done he gravely returned and very carefully putting it down renewed his part with the line
Be thus vhen thou art dead and I vill kill thee
And love thee after—
Amidst roars of laughter from the whole audience who when he kissed her almost with one voice called out—Ay ay thats right—kiss and friends
And when he said—
I must veep——
So must I too my good friend cried Sir Sedley wiping his eyes for never yet did sorrow cost me more salt rheum Poor Blacky thou hast been most indissolubly comic I confess Thou hast unstrung me to a degree A baby of half an hour might demolish me
And again when Othello exclaimed—
She vakes
The deuce she does cried Sir Sedley what has she been asleep again already Shes a very caricatura of Morpheus Ay do thy worst honest Mungo I cant possibly beg her off I would sooner snift thy farthing candle once a day than sustain that nasal cadence ever more
Hes the finest fellow upon the face of the earth cried Mr Macdersey who had listened to the whole play with the most serious interest the instant he suspects his wife he cuts her off without ceremony though shes dearer to him than his eye sight and beautiful as an angel How I envy him
Dont you think twould have been as well said General Kinsale if hed first made some little enquiry
He can do that afterwards General and then nobody will dare surmise its out of weakness For to be sure and certain he ought to right her fame thats no more than his duty after once he has satisfied his own But a mans honour is dearest to him of all things A wifes a bauble to it—not worth a thought
The suffocating was now beginning but just as Desdemona begged to be spared—
But alf han our—
the doorkeeper forced his way into the pit and called out—Pray is one Miss Tyrold here in the playhouse
The sisters in much amazement hung back entreating the gentlemen to screen them and the man receiving no answer went away
While wondering what this could mean the play was finished when one of the comedians a brother of the Worcestershire Desdemona came to the pit door calling out—Him desired to hask hif Miss Camilla Tyrolds hany way ere hin the ouse for him hordered to call er hout for her Huncles hill and dying
A piercing shriek from Camilla now completed the interruption of all attention to the performance and betrayed her hiding place Concealment indeed was banished her thoughts and she would herself have opened the box door to rush out had not the Major anticipated her seizing at the same time her hand to conduct her through the crowd
CHAPTER IX
Three Golden Maxims
Lavinia almost equally terrified followed her sister and Sir Sedley burying all foppery in compassion and good nature was foremost to accompany and assist Camilla had no thought but to get instantly to Cleves she considered not how she only forced herself rapidly on persuaded she could walk it in ten minutes and ejaculating incessantly My Uncle—my dear Uncle—
They almost instantly encountered Edgar who upon the fatal call had darted round to meet them and finding each provided with an attendant inquired whose carriage he should seek
Camilla in a broken voice answered she had no carriage and should walk
Walk he repeated you are near five miles from Cleves
Scarce in her senses she hurried on without reply
What carriage did you come in Miss Tyrold said Edgar to Lavinia
We came with Mrs Arlbery
Mrs Arlbery—she has been gone this half hour I met her as I entered
Camilla had now rushed out of doors still handed by the Major
If you have no carriage in waiting said Edgar make use I beseech you of mine
O gladly O thankfully cried Camilla almost sobbing out her words
He flew then to call for his chaise and the doorkeeper for whom Sir Sedley had inquired came to them accompanied by Jacob
O Jacob she cried breaking violently from the Major tell me—tell me—my Uncle—my dearest Uncle
Jacob in a tone of deep and unfeigned sorrow said his Master had been seized suddenly with the gout in his stomach and that the doctor who had been instantly fetched had owned there was little hope
She could hear no more the shock overpowered her and she sunk nearly senseless into the arms of her sister
She was recovered however almost in a minute and carried by Edgar into his chaise in which he placed her between himself and the weeping Lavinia hastily telling the two gentlemen that his intimate connection with the family authorized his assisting and attending them at such a period
This was too well known to be disputed and Sir Sedley and the Major with great concern uttered their good wishes and retreated
Jacob had already been for Mr Tyrold who had set off instantaneously on horseback
Camilla spoke not a word the first mile which was spent in an hysteric sobbing but recovering a little afterwards and sinking on the shoulder of her sister O Lavinia she cried should we lose my Uncle——
A shower of tears wetted the neck of Lavinia who mingled with them her own though less violently from having less connection with Sir Hugh and a sensibility less ungovernable
She called herself upon the postillion to drive faster and pressed Edgar continually to hurry him but though he gave every charge she could desire so much swifter were her wishes than any possible speed that twenty times she entreated to get out believing she could walk quicker than the horses galloped
When they arrived at the park gate she was with difficulty held back from opening the chaise door and when at length they stopt at the house porch she could not wait for the step and before Edgar could either precede or prevent her threw herself into the arms of Jacob who having just dismounted was fortunately at hand to save her from falling
She stopt not to ask any question My Uncle—my Uncle she cried impetuously and rushing past all she met was in his room in a moment
Edgar though he could not obstruct followed her close dreading lest Sir Hugh might already be no more and determined in that case to force her from the fatal spot
Eugenia who heard her footstep received her at the door but took her immediately from the room softly whispering while her arms were thrown round her waist—He will live he will live my sister his agonies are over—he is fallen asleep and he will live
This was too sudden a joy for the desponding Camilla whose breath instantly stopt and who must have fallen upon the floor had she not been caught by Edgar who though his own eyes copiously overflowed with delight at such unexpected good news of the universally beloved Baronet had strength and exertion sufficient to carry her downstairs into the parlour accompanied by Eugenia
There hartshorn and water presently revived her and then regardless of the presence of Edgar she cast herself upon her knees to utter a fervent thanksgiving in which Eugenia with equal piety though more composure joined
Edgar had never yet beheld her in a light so resplendent—What a heart thought he is here what feelings what tenderness what animation—O what a heart—were it possible to touch it
The two sisters went both gently up stairs encouraging and congratulating each other in soft whispers and stationed themselves in an anteroom Mr Tyrold by medical counsel giving directions that no one but himself should enter the sick chamber
Edgar though he only saw the domestics could not persuade himself to leave the house till near two oclock in the morning and by six his anxiety brought him thither again He then heard that the Baronet had passed a night of more pain than danger the gout having been expelled his stomach though it had been threatening almost every other part
Three days and nights passed in this manner during which Edgar saw so much of the tender affections and softer character of Camilla that nothing could have withheld him from manifesting his entire sympathy in her feelings but the unaccountable circumstance of her starting forth from a back seat at the play where she had sat concealed attended by the Major and without any matron protectress
Miss Margland meanwhile scowled at him and Indiana pouted in vain His earnest solicitude for Sir Hugh surmounted every such obstacle to his present visits at Cleves and he spent there almost the whole of his time
On the fourth day of the attack Sir Hugh had a sleep of five hours continuance from which he awoke so much revived that he raised himself in his bed and called out—My dear Brother you are still here—you are very good to me indeed poor sinner that I am to forgive me for all my bad behaviour to your Children
My dearest Brother my Children like myself owe you nothing but kindness and beneficence and like myself feel for you nothing but gratitude and tenderness
They are very good very good indeed said Sir Hugh with a deep sigh but Eugenia—poor little Eugenia has nearly been the death of me though not meaning it in the least being all her life as innocent as a lamb
Mr Tyrold assured him that Eugenia was attached to him with the most unalterable fondness But Sir Hugh said that the sight of her returning from Etherington with nearly the same sadness as ever had wounded him to the heart by shewing him she would never recover which had brought back upon him all his first contrition about the smallpox and the fall from the plank and had caused his conscience to give him so many twitches that it never let him rest a moment till the gout seized upon his stomach and almost took him off at once
Mr Tyrold attributed solely to his own strong imagination the idea of the continuance of the dejection of Eugenia as she had left Etherington calm and almost chearful He instantly therefore fetched her intimating the species of consolation she could afford
Kindest of Uncles cried she is it possible you can ever for a moment have doubted the grateful affection with which your goodness has impressed me from my childhood Do me more justice I beseech you my dearest Uncle recover from this terrible attack and you shall soon see your Eugenia restored to all the happiness you can wish her
Nobody has got such kind nieces as me cried Sir Hugh again dissolving into tenderness for all nobody has deserved so ill of them My generous little Camilla forgave me from the very first before her young soul had any guile in it which God knows it never has had to this hour no more than your own However this I can tell you which may serve to keep you from repenting being good and that is that your kindness to your poor Uncle may be the means of saving a christians life which for a young person at your age is as much as can be expected for I think I may yet get about again if I could once be assured I should see you as happy as you used to be and youve been the contentedest little thing till those unlucky marketwomen that ever was seen always speaking up for the servants and the poor from the time you were eight years old And never letting me be angry but taking every bodys part and thinking them all as good as yourself and only wanting to make them as happy
Ah my dear Uncle how kind a memory is yours retaining only what can give pleasure and burying in oblivion whatever might cause pain—
Is my Uncle well enough to speak cried Camilla softly opening the door and may I—for one single moment—see him——
Thats the voice of my dear Camilla said Sir Hugh come in my little love for I shant shock your tender heart now for Im going to get better
Camilla in an ecstasy was instantly at his bedside passionately exclaiming My dear dear Uncle will you indeed recover—
Sir Hugh throwing his feeble arms round her neck and leaning his head upon her shoulder could only faintly articulate If God pleases I shall my little darling my hearts delight and joy But dont vex whether I do or not for it is but in the course of nature for a man to die even in his youth but how much more when he comes to be old Though I know you cant help missing me in particular at the first because of all your goodness to me
Missing you O my Uncle we can never be happy again without you never never—when your loved countenance no longer smiles upon us—when your kind voice no longer assembles us around you—
My dear child—my own little Camilla cried Sir Hugh in a faint voice I am ready to die
Mr Tyrold here forced her away and his brother grew so much worse that a dangerous relapse took place and for three days more the physician the nurse and Mr Tyrold were alone allowed to enter his room
During this time the whole family suffered the truest grief and Camilla was inconsolable
When again he began to revive he called Mr Tyrold to him and said that this second shake persuaded him he had but a short time more for this world and begged therefore he would prepare him for his exit
Mr Tyrold complied and found with more happiness than surprise his perfect and chearful resignation either to live or to die rejoicing as much as himself in the innocent benevolence of his past days
Composed and strengthened by religious duties he then desired to see Eugenia and Indiana that he might give them his last exhortations and counsel in case of a speedy end
Mr Tyrold would fain have spared him this touching exertion but he declared he could not go off with a clear conscience unless he told them the advice which he had been thinking of for them between whiles during all his illness
Mr Tyrold then feared that opposition might but discompose him and summoned his youngest daughter and his niece charging them both to repress their affliction lest it should accelerate what they most dreaded
Camilla always upon the watch glided in with them supplicating her Father not to deny her admittance though fearful of her impetuous sorrows he wished her to retreat but Sir Hugh no sooner heard her murmuring voice than he declared he would have her refused nothing though he had meant to take a particular leave of her alone for the last thing of all
Gratefully thanking him she advanced trembling to his bedside solemnly promising her Father that no expression of her grief should again risk agitating a life and health so precious
Sir Hugh then desired to have Lavinia called also because though he had thought of nothing to say to her she might be hurt after he was gone in being left out
He was then raised by pillows and sat upright and they knelt round his bed Mr Tyrold entreated him to be concise and insisted upon the extremest forbearance and fortitude in his little audience He seated himself at some distance and Sir Hugh after swallowing a cordial medicine began
My dear Nieces I have sent for you all upon a particular account which I beg you to listen to because God only knows whether I may ever be able to give you so much advice again I see you all look very melancholy which I take very kind of you However dont cry my little dears for we must all go off so it matters but little the day or the hour dying being besides the greatest comfort of us all taking us off from our cares as my Brother will explain to you better than me
The chief of what I have got to say in regard to what I have been studying in my illness is for you two my dear Eugenia and Indiana because having brought you both up I cant get it out of my head what youll do when I am no longer here to keep you out of the danger of bad designers
My hope had been to have seen you both married while I was alive and amongst you and I made as many plans as my poor head knew how to bring it about but weve all been disappointed alike for which reason we must put up with it properly
What I have now last of all to say to you my little dears is three maxims which may serve for you all four alike though I thought of them at first only for you two
In the first place Never be proud if you are your superiors will laugh at you your equals wont love you and your dependants will hate you And what is there for poor mortal man to be proud of—Riches—why they are but a charge and if we dont use them well we may envy the poor beggar that has so much less to answer for—Beauty—why we can neither get it when we havent it nor keep it when we have it—Power—why we scarce ever use it one way but what we are sorry we did not use it another
In the second place Never trust a Flatterer If a man makes you a great many compliments always suspect him of some bad design and never believe him your friend till he tells you of some of your faults Poor little things you little imagine how many you have for all youre so good
In the third place Do no harm to others for the sake of any good it may do to yourselves because the good will last you but a little while and the repentance will stick by you as long as you live and what is worse a great while longer and beyond any count the best Almanackmaker knows how to reckon
And now my dear Nieces this is all except the recommending to my dear Eugenia to be kind to my poor servants who have all used me so well knowing I have nothing to leave them
Eugenia suppressing her sobs promised to retain them all as long as they should desire to remain with her and to provide for them afterwards
I know youll forget nobody my dear little girl cried the Baronet which makes me die contented not even Mrs Margland a little particularity not being to be considered at ones last end and much less Dr Orkborne who has so much a better right from you As to Indiana shell have her own little fortune when she comes of age and I dare say her pretty face will marry her before long—And as to Clermont hell come off rather short finding I leave him nothing but youll make up for the deficiency by giving him the whole as well as a good wife As to Lionel I leave him my blessing and as to any other legacy I never happened to promise him any which is very good luck for me as well as my best excuse and I may say the same to my dear Lavinia which is the reason I called her in because she may not often have an opportunity to hear a man speak upon his deathbed However all I wish for is that I could leave you all equal shares as well as give Eugenia the whole
O my dear Uncle exclaimed Eugenia make a new Will immediately do everything your tenderness can dictate—or tell me what I shall do in your name and every word every wish shall be sacredly obeyed
Dear generous noble girl no I wont take from you a shilling keep it all—nobody will spend it so well—and I cant give you back your beauty so keep it my dear all for my oaths sake when I am gone and dont make me die under a prevaricating which would be but a grievous thing for a person to do unless he was but a bad believer which God help us there are enough without my helping to make more
Mr Tyrold now again remonstrated motioning to the weeping group to be gone
Ah my dear Brother said Sir Hugh you are the only right person that ought to have had it all if it had not been for my poor weak brain that made me always be looking askew instead of strait forward And indeed I always meant you to have had it for your life till the smallpox put all things out of my head However I hope you wont object to preach my funeral sermon for all my bad faults for nobody else will speak of me so kindly which may serve as a better lesson for those I leave behind
Tears flowed fast down the cheeks of Mr Tyrold as he uttered whatever he could suggest most tenderly soothing to his Brother and the young mourners not daring to resist were all gliding away except Camilla whose hand was fast grasped in that of her Uncle
Ah my Camilla cried he as she would gently have withdrawn it how shall I part with my little dear darling this is the worst twitch to me of all with all my contentedness And the more because I know you love your poor old Uncle just as well as if he had left you all he was worth though you wont get one penny by his death
O my dear dearest Uncle— exclaimed Camilla in a passionate flood of tears when Mr Tyrold assuring them both the consequences might be fatal tore her away from the bed and the room
END OF THE SECOND VOLUME
VOLUME III
BOOK V
CHAPTER I
A Pursuer
Notwithstanding the fears so justly excited from the mixt emotions and exertions of Sir Hugh Mr Tyrold had the happiness to see him fall into a tranquil sleep from which he awoke without any return of pain his night was quiet the next day was still better and the day following he was pronounced out of danger
The rapture which this declaration excited in the house and diffused throughout the neighbourhood when communicated to the worthy baronet gave a gladness to his heart that recompensed all he had suffered
The delight of Camilla exceeded whatever she had yet experienced her life had lost half its value in her estimation while she believed that of her uncle to be in danger
No one single quality is perhaps so endearing from man to man as goodnature Talents excite more admiration wisdom more respect and virtue more esteem but with admiration envy is apt to mingle and fear with respect while esteem though always honourable is often cold but goodnature gives pleasure without any allay ease confidence and happy carelessness without the pain of obligation without the exertion of gratitude
If joy was in some more tumultuous content was with none so penetrating as with Eugenia Apprised now that she had been the immediate cause of the sufferings of her uncle his loss would have given to her peace a blow irrecoverable and she determined to bend the whole of her thoughts to his wishes his comfort his entire restoration
To this end all her virtue was called in aid a fear next to aversion having seized her of Clermont from the apprehension she might never inspire in him such love as she had inspired in Bellamy nor see in him as in young Melmond such merit as might raise similar sentiments for himself
Molly Mill had not failed to paint to her the disappointment of Bellamy in not seeing her but she was too much engrossed by the dangerous state of her uncle to feel any compunction in her breach of promise though touched with the account of his continual sufferings she became very gentle in her reprimands to Molly for again meeting him and though Molly again disobeyed she again was pardoned He came daily to the lane behind the park pales to hear news of the health of Sir Hugh without pressing either for an interview or a letter and Eugenia grew more and more moved by his respectful obsequiousness She had yet said nothing to Camilla upon the subject not only because a dearer interest mutually occupied them but from a secret shame of naming a lover at a period so ungenial
But now that Sir Hugh was in a fair way of recovery her situation became alarming to herself Openly and before the whole house she had solemnly been assigned to Clermont Lynmere and little as she wished the connexion she thought it from circumstances her duty not to refuse it Yet this gentleman had attended her so long had endured so many disappointments and borne them so much to her satisfaction that though she lamented her concession as an injury to Clermont and grew ashamed to name it even to Camilla she believed it would be cruelty unheard of to break it She determined therefore to see him to pronounce a farewell and then to bend all her thoughts to the partner destined her by her friends
Molly Mill was alone to accompany her to give her negative her good wishes and her solemn declaration that she could never again see or hear of him more He could deem it no indelicacy that she suffered Molly to be present since she was the negociator of his own choice
Molly carried him therefore this news with a previous condition that he was not to detain her mistress one minute He promised all submission and the next morning after breakfast Eugenia in extreme dejection at the ungrateful task she had to perform called for Molly and walked forth
Camilla who was then accidentally in her own room was soon after summoned by three smart raps to her chamber door
There to her great surprise she saw Edgar who after a hasty apology begged to have a few minutes conference with her alone
She descended with him into the parlour which was vacant
You suspect perhaps said he in an hurried manner though attempting to smile that I mean to fatigue you with some troublesome advice I must therefore by an abrupt question explain myself Does Mr Bellamy still continue his pretensions to your sister Eugenia
Startled in a moment from all thoughts of self, that at first had been rushing with violence to her heart Camilla answered No why do you ask
I will tell you In my regular visits here of late I have almost constantly met him either on foot or on horseback in the vicinity of the park I suspected he watched to see Eugenia but I knew she now never left the house and concluded he was ignorant of the late general confinement This moment however upon my entrance I saw him again and as he hastily turned away upon meeting my eye I dismounted gave my horse to my man and determined to satisfy myself which way he was strolling I then followed him to the little lane to the right of the park where I perceived an empty postchaiseandfour in waiting he advanced and spoke with the postillion—I came instantly into the house by the little gate This may be accidental yet it has alarmed me and I ventured therefore thus suddenly to apply to you in order to urge you to give a caution to Eugenia not to walk out just at present unattended
Camilla thanked him and ran eagerly to speak to her sister but she was not in her room nor was she with her uncle nor yet with Dr Orkborne She returned uneasily to the parlour and said she would seek her in the park
Edgar followed but they looked around for her in vain he then deeming the danger urgent left her to hasten to the spot where he had seen the postchaise
Camilla ran on alone and when she reached the park gate perceived her sister Molly Mill and Bellamy in the lane
They heard her quick approach and turned round
The countenance of Bellamy exhibited the darkest disappointment and that of Eugenia the most excessive confusion Now then Sir she cried delay our separation no longer
Ah permit me said he in a low voice permit me to hope you will hear my last sad sentence my final misery another day—I will defer my mournful departure for that melancholy joy which is the last I shall feel in my wretched existence
He sighed so deeply that Eugenia who seemed already in much sorrow could not utter an abrupt refusal and as Camilla now advanced she turned from him without attempting to say any thing further
Camilla in the delight of finding her sister safe after the horrible apprehensions she had just experienced could not speak to her for tears
Abashed at once and amazed Eugenia faintly asked what so affected her She gave no explanation but begged her to turn immediately back
Eugenia consented and Bellamy bowing to them both profoundly with quick steps walked away
Camilla asked a thousand questions but Eugenia seemed unable to answer them
In a few minutes they were joined by Edgar who walking hastily up to them took Camilla apart
He told her he firmly believed a villainous scheme to have been laid he had found the chaise still in waiting and asked the postillion to whom he belonged The man said he was paid for what he did and refused giving any account of himself Bellamy then appeared he seemed confounded at his sight but neither of them spoke and he left him and his chaise and his postillion to console one another. He doubted not he said but the design had been to carry Eugenia off and he had probably only pretended to take leave that the chaise might advance and the postillion aid the elopement though finding help at hand he had been forced to give up his scheme
Camilla even with rapture blest his fortunate presence but was confounded with perplexity at the conduct of Eugenia Edgar who feared her heart was entangled by an object who sought only her wealth proposed dismissing Molly Mill that he might tell her himself the opinion he had conceived of Bellamy
Camilla overtook her sister who had walked on without listening to or regarding them and sending away Molly told her Edgar wished immediately to converse with her upon something of the utmost importance
You know my high esteem of him she answered but my mind is now occupied upon a business of which he has no information and I entreat that you will neither of you interrupt me
Camilla utterly at a loss what to conjecture joined Mandlebert alone and told him her ill success He thought every thing was to be feared from the present state of the affair and proposed revealing at once all he knew of it to Mr Tyrold but Camilla desired him to take no step till she had again expostulated with her sister who might else be seriously hurt or offended He complied and said he would continue in the house park or environs incessantly upon the watch till some decisive measure were adopted
Joining Eugenia then again she asked if she meant seriously to encourage the addresses of Bellamy
By no means she quietly answered
My dear Eugenia I cannot at all understand you but it seems clear to me that the arrival of Edgar has saved you from some dreadful violence
You hurt me Camilla by this prejudice From whom should I dread violence from a man who—but too fatally for his peace—values me more than his life
If I could be sure of his sincerity said Camilla I should be the last to think ill of him but reflect a little at least upon the risk that you have run my dear Eugenia there was a postchaise in waiting not twenty yards from where I stopt you
Ah you little know Bellamy that chaise was only to convey him away to convey him Camilla to an eternal banishment
But why then had he prevailed with you to quit the park
You will call me vain if I tell you
No I shall only think you kind and confidential
Do me then the justice said Eugenia blushing to believe me as much surprised as yourself at his most unmerited passion but he told me that if I only cast my eyes upon the vehicle which was to part him from me for ever it would not only make it less abhorrent to him but probably prevent the loss of his senses
My dear Eugenia said Camilla half smiling this is a violent passion indeed for so short an acquaintance
I knew you would say that answered she disconcerted and it was just what I observed to him myself but he satisfied me that the reason of his feelings being so impetuous was that this was the first and only time he had ever been in love—So handsome as he is—what a choice for him to make
Camilla tenderly embracing her declared the choice was all that did him honour in the affair
He never said she a little comforted makes me any compliments I should else disregard if not disdain him but indeed he seems notwithstanding his own extraordinary manly beauty to be wholly superior to external considerations
Camilla now forbore expressing farther doubt from the fear of painful misapprehension but earnestly entreated her to suffer Edgar to be entrusted and consulted she decidedly however refused her consent I require no advice cried she for I am devoted to my uncles will to speak then of this affair would be the most cruel indelicacy in publishing a conquest which since it is rejected I ought silently though gratefully to bury in my own heart
She then related the history of all that had passed to Camilla but solemnly declared she would never to any other human being but him who should hereafter be entitled to her whole heart betray the secret of the unhappy Bellamy
CHAPTER II
An Adviser
The wish of Camilla was to lay this whole affair before her father but she checked it from an apprehension she might seem displaying her duty and confidence at the expence of those of her sister whose motives for concealment were intentionally the most pure however practically they might be erroneous and whom she both pitied and revered for her proposed submission to her uncle in opposition to her palpable reluctance
She saw not however any obstacle to consulting with Edgar since he was already apprised of the business and since his services might be essentially useful to her sister while with respect to herself there seemed at this time more of dignity in meeting than shunning his friendly intercourse since his regard for her seemed to have lost all its peculiarity He has precisely cried she the same sentiments for my sisters as for me—he is equally kind disinterested and indifferent to us all anxious alike for Eugenia with Mr Bellamy and for me with the detestable Major Be it so—we can no where obtain a better friend and I should blush indeed if I could not treat as a brother one who can treat me as a sister
Tranquil though not gay she returned to converse with him but when she had related what had passed he confessed that his uneasiness upon the subject was increased The heart of Eugenia appeared to him positively entangled and he besought Camilla not to lose a moment in acquainting Mr Tyrold with her situation
She pleaded against giving this pain to her sister with energetic affection her arguments failed to convince but her eloquence powerfully touched him and he contented himself with only entreating that she would again try to aid him with an opportunity of conversing with Eugenia
This she could not refuse nor could he then resist the opportunity to inquire why Mrs Arlbery had left her and Lavinia at the play She thanked him for remembering his character of her monitor and acknowledged the fault to be her own with a candour so unaffected that captivated by the soft seriousness of her manner he flattered himself his fear of the Major was a chimæra and hoped that as soon as Sir Hugh was able to again join his family no impediment would remain to his begging the united blessings of the two brothers to his views
When Camilla told her sister the request of Edgar she immediately suspected the attachment of Bellamy had been betrayed to him and Camilla incapable of any duplicity related precisely how the matter had passed Eugenia always just no sooner heard than she forgave it and accompanied her sister immediately down stairs
I must rest all my hope of pardon cried Edgar for the part I am taking to your conviction of its motive a filial love and gratitude to Mr Tyrold a fraternal affection and interest for all his family
My own sisterly feelings she answered make me both comprehend and thank your kind solicitude but believe me it is now founded in error I am shocked to find you informed of this unhappy transaction and I charge and beseech that no interference may wound its illfated object by suffering him to surmise your knowledge of his humiliating situation
I would not for the world give you pain answered Edgar but permit me to be faithful to the brotherly character in which I consider myself to stand with you all
A blush had overspread his face at the word Brotherly while at that of all which recovered him a still deeper stained the cheeks of Camilla but neither of them looked at the other and Eugenia was too selfabsorbed to observe either
Your utter inexperience in life he continued makes me though but just giving up leadingstrings myself an adept in the comparison Suffer me then as such to represent to you my fears that your innocence and goodness may expose you to imposition You must not judge all characters by the ingenuousness of your own nor conclude however rationally and worthily a mind such as yours might—may—and will inspire a disinterested regard that there is no danger of any other and that mercenary views are out of the question because mercenary principles are not declared
I will not say your inference is severe replied Eugenia because you know not the person of whom you speak but permit me to make this irrefragable vindication of his freedom from all sordid motives he has never once named the word fortune neither to make any inquiries into mine nor any professions concerning his own Had he any inducement to duplicity he might have asserted to me what he pleased since I have no means of detection
Your situation said Edgar is pretty generally known and for his pardon me if I hint it may be possible that silence is no virtue However since I am unacquainted you say with his character will you give me leave to make myself better informed
There needs no investigation to me it is perfectly known
Forgive me if I ask how
By his letters and by his conversation
A smile which stole upon the features of Edgar obliged him to turn his head another way but presently recovering My dear Miss Eugenia he cried will it not be most consonant to your high principles and scrupulous delicacy to lay the whole of what has passed before Mr Tyrold
Undoubtedly if my part were not strait forward Had I the least hesitation my father should be my immediate and decisive umpire But I am not at liberty even for deliberation—I am not I know at my own disposal—
She blushed and looked down confused but presently with firmness added It is not indeed fit that I should be my uncle completely merits to be in all things my director To know his wishes therefore, is not only to know but to be satisfied with my doom Such being my situation you cannot misunderstand my defence of this unhappy young man It is but simple justice to rescue an amiable person from calumny
Let us allow all this said Edgar still I see no reason why Mr Tyrold
Mr Mandlebert interrupted she you must do what you judge right I can desire no one to abstain from pursuing the dictates of their own sense of honour I leave you therefore unshackled but there is no consideration which in my opinion can justify a female in spreading even to her nearest connexions an unrequited partiality If therefore I am forced to inflict this undue mortification upon a person to whom I hold myself so much obliged an uneasiness will remain upon my mind destructive of my forgetfulness of an event which I would fain banish from my memory
She then refused to be any longer detained
How I love the perfect innocence and how I reverence the respectable singularity of that charming character cried Edgar yet how vain are all arguments against such a combination of fearless credulity and enthusiastic reasoning What can we determine
I am happy to retort upon you that question replied Camilla for I am every way afraid to act myself lest I should hurt this dear sister or do wrong by my yet dearer father
What a responsibility you cast upon me I will not however shrink from it for the path seems far plainer to me since I have had this conversation Eugenia is at present safe I see now distinctly her heart is yet untouched The readiness with which she met the subject the openness with which she avows her esteem the unembarrassed though modest simplicity with which she speaks of his passion and his distress all shew that her pity results from generosity not from love Had it been otherwise with all her steadiness all her philosophy some agitation and anxiety would have betrayed her secret soul The internal workings of hopes and fears the sensitive alarms of repressed consciousness A deep glow which heated his face forced him here to break off and abruptly leaving his sentence unfinished he hastily began another
We must not nevertheless regard this as security for the future though it is safety for the present nor trust her unsuspicious generosity of mind to the dangerous assault of artful distress I speak without reserve of this man for though I know him not as she remonstrated I cannot from the whole circumstances of his clandestine conduct doubt his being an adventurer You say nothing tell me I beg your opinion
Camilla had not heard one word of this last speech Struck with his discrimination between the actual and the possible state of Eugenias mind and with the effect the definition had produced upon himself her attention was irresistibly seized by a new train of ideas, till finding he waited for an answer she mechanically repeated his last word opinion
He saw her absence of mind and suspected his own too palpable disturbance had occasioned it but in what degree or from what sensations he could not conjecture They were both some time silent and then recollecting herself she said it was earnestly her wish to avoid disobliging her sister by a communication which made by any one but herself must put her into a disgraceful point of view
Edgar after a pause said they must yield then to her present fervour and hope her sounder judgment when less played upon would see clearer It appeared to him indeed that she was so free at this moment from any dangerous impression that it might perhaps be even safer to submit quietly to her request than to urge the generous romance of her temper to new workings He undertook meantime to keep a constant watch upon the motions of Bellamy to make sedulous inquiries into his character and situation in life and to find out for what ostensible purpose he was in Hampshire entreating leave to communicate constantly to Camilla what he might gather and to consult with her from time to time upon what measures should be pursued yet ultimately confessing that if Eugenia did not steadily persist in refusing any further rejections he should hold himself bound in conscience to communicate the whole to Mr Tyrold
Camilla was pleased and even thankful for the extreme friendliness and kind moderation of this arrangement yet she left him mournfully in a confirmed belief his regard for the whole family was equal
Eugenia much gratified promised she would henceforth take no step with which Edgar should not first be acquainted
CHAPTER III
Various Confabulations
Mr Tyrold saw at first the renewed visits of Edgar at Cleves with extreme satisfaction but while all his hopes were alive from an intercourse almost perpetual he perceived with surprise and perplexity that his daughter became more and more pensive after every interview and as Edgar this evening quitted the house he observed tears start into her eyes as she went up stairs to her own room
Alarmed and disappointed he thought it now high time to investigate the state of the affair and to encourage or prevent future meetings as it appeared to him to be propitious or hopeless
Penetrated with the goodness while lamenting the indifference of Edgar Camilla had just reached her room when as she turned round to shut her door Mr Tyrold appeared before her
Hastily with the back of her hand brushing off the tears from her eyes she said May I go to my uncle Sir can my uncle admit me
He can always admit you he answered but just now you must forget him a moment and consign yourself to your father
He then entered shut the door and making her sit down by him said What is this sorrow that assails my Camilla Why is the light heart of my dear and happy child thus dejected
Speech and truth were always one with Camilla who as she could not in this instance declare what were her feelings remained mute and confounded
Hesitate not my dear girl cried he kindly to unbosom your griefs or your apprehensions where they will be received with all the tenderness due to such a confidence and held sacred from every human inspection unless you permit me yourself to entrust your best and wisest friend
Camilla now trembled but could not even attempt to speak
He saw her disorder and presently added I will forbear to probe your feelings when you have satisfied me in one doubt—Is the sadness I have of late remarked in you the effect of secret personal disturbance or of disappointed expectation
Camilla could neither answer nor look up she was convinced by this question that the subject of her melancholy was understood and felt wholly overcome by the deeply distressing confusion with which wounded pride and unaffected virgin modesty impress a youthful female in the idea of being suspected of a misplaced or an unrequited partiality
Her silence a suffocating sigh and her earnest endeavour to hide her face easily explained to Mr Tyrold all that passed within and respecting rather than wishing to conquer a shame flowing from fearful delicacy I would spare you he said all investigation whatever could I be certain you are not called into any action but in that case I know not that I can justify to myself so implicit a confidence in youth and inexperience so untried in difficulties so unused to evil or embarrassment as yours Tell me then my dear Camilla do you sigh under the weight of any disingenuous conduct or do you suffer from some suspence which you have no means of terminating
My dearest father no cried she sinking upon his breast I have no suspence
She gasped for breath
And how has it been removed my child said Mr Tyrold in a mournful tone has any deception any ungenerous art
O no no he is incapable he is superior he She stopt abruptly shocked at the avowal these few words at once inferred of her partiality of its hopelessness and of its object.
She walked confused to a corner of the room and leaning against the wainscot enveloped her face in her handkerchief with the most painful sensations of shame
Mr Tyrold remained in deep meditation Her regard for Edgar he had already considered as undoubted and her undisguised acknowledgment excited his tenderest sympathy but to find she thought it without return and without hope penetrated him with grief Not only his own fond view of the attractions of his daughter but all he had observed even from his childhood in Edgar had induced him to believe she was irresistibly formed to captivate him and what had lately passed had seemed a confirmation of all he had expected Camilla nevertheless exculpated him from all blame and while touched by her artlessness and honouring her truth he felt at least some consolation to find that Edgar whom he loved as a son was untainted by deceit unaccused of any evil He concluded that some unfortunate secret entanglement or some mystery not yet to be developed directed compulsatorily his conduct and checked the dictates of his taste and inclination
Gently at length approaching her My dearest child he said I will ask you nothing further all that is absolutely essential for me to know I have gathered You will never I am certain forget the noble mother whom you are bound to revere in imitating nor the affectionate father whom your ingenuousness renders the most indulgent of your friends Dry up your tears then my Camilla and command your best strength to conceal for ever their source and most especially from its cause
He then embraced and left her
Yes my dearest father cried she as she shut the door most perfect and most lenient of human beings yes I will obey your dictates I will hide till I can conquer this weak emotion and no one shall ever know and Edgar least of all that a daughter of yours has a feeling she ought to disguise
Elevated by the kindness of a father so adored to deserve his good opinion now included every wish The least severity would have chilled her confidence the least reproof would have discouraged all effort to selfconquest but while his softness had soothed his approbation had invigorated her and her feelings received additional energy from the conscious generosity with which she had represented Edgar as blameless Blameless however in her own breast she could not deem him his looks his voice his manner words that occasionally dropt from him and meanings yet more expressive which his eyes or his attentions had taken in charge all from time to time had told a flattering tale which though timidity and anxious earnestness had obscured from her perfect comprehension her hopes and her sympathy had prevented from wholly escaping her Yet what internally she could not defend she forgave and acquitting him of all intentional deceit concluded that what he had felt for her he had thought too slight and immaterial to deserve repressing on his own part or notice on hers To continue with him her present sisterly conduct was all she had to study not doubting but that what as yet was effort would in time become natural
Strengthened thus in fortitude she descended cheerfully to supper where Mr Tyrold though he saw with pain that her spirits were constrained felt the fondest satisfaction in the virtue of her exertion
Her night passed in the consolation of self-applause My dear father thought she will see I strive to merit his lenity and that soothing consideration with the honourable friendship of Edgar will be sufficient for the happiness of my future life in the single and tranquil state in which it will be spent
Thus comforted she again met the eye of Mr Tyrold the next day at breakfast in the midst of which repast Edgar entered the parlour The tea she was drinking was then rather gulped than sipped yet she maintained an air of unconcern and returned his salutation with apparent composure
Edgar while addressing to Mr Tyrold his inquiries concerning Sir Hugh saw from the window his servant whom he had outgalloped thrown with violence from his horse He rushed out of the parlour and the first person to rise with involuntary intent to follow him was Camilla But as she reached the halldoor she saw that the man was safe and perceived that her father was the only person who had left the room besides herself Ashamed she returned and found the female party collected at the windows
Hoping to retrieve the error of her eagerness she seated herself at the table and affected to finish her breakfast
Eugenia told her they had discovered the cause of the accident which had been owing to a sharp stone that had penetrated into the horses hoof and which Edgar was now endeavouring to extract
A general scream just then from the window party and a cry from Eugenia of O Edgar carried her again to the halldoor with the swiftness of lightning calling out Where What Good Heaven
Molly Mill accidentally there before her said as she approached that the horse had kicked Mr Mandlebert upon the shoulder
Every thing but tenderness and terror was now forgotten by Camilla she darted forward with unrestrained velocity and would have given in a moment the most transporting amazement to Edgar and to herself the deepest shame but that Mr Tyrold who alone had his face that way stopt and led her back to the house saying There is no mischief a bee stung the poor animal at the instant the stone was extracted and the surprise and pain made it kick but fortunately without any bad effect I wish to know how your uncle is I should be glad you would go and sit with him till I can come
With these words he left her and though abashed and overset she found no sensation so powerful as joy for the safety of Edgar
Still however too little at ease for conversing with her uncle she went straight to her own chamber and flew involuntarily to a window whence the first object that met her eyes was her father who was anxiously looking up She retreated utterly confounded and threw herself upon a chair at the other end of the room
Shame now was her only sensation The indiscretion of her first surprise she knew he must forgive though she blushed at its recollection but a solicitude so pertinacious an indulgence so repeated of feelings he had enjoined her to combat how could she hope for his pardon or how obtain her own to have forfeited an approbation so precious
She could not go to her uncle she would have remained where she was till summoned to dinner if the housemaid after finishing all her other work had not a third time returned to inquire if she might clean her room
She then determined to repair to the library where she was certain only to encounter Eugenia who would not torment or Dr Orkborne who would not perceive her but at the bottom of the stairs she was stopt by Miss Margland who with a malicious smile asked if she was going to hold the bason
What bason cried she surprised
The bason for the surgeon
What surgeon repeated she alarmed
Mr Burton who is come to bleed Mr Mandlebert
She asked nothing more She felt extremely faint but made her way into the park to avoid further conference
Here in the most painful suspence dying for information yet shirking whoever could give it her she remained till she saw the departure of the surgeon She then went round by a back way to the apartment of Eugenia who informed her that the contusion though not dangerous was violent and that Mr Tyrold had insisted upon immediate bleeding The surgeon had assured them this precaution would prevent any ill consequence but Sir Hugh hearing from the servants what had happened had desired that Edgar would not return home till the next day
The joy of Camilla that nothing was more serious banished all that was disagreeable from her thoughts till she was called back to reflections less consoling by meeting Mr Tyrold as she was returning to her own room who with a gravity unusual desired to speak with her and preceded her into the chamber
Trembling and filled with shame she followed shut the door and remained at it without daring to look up
My dear Camilla cried he with earnestness let me not hope in vain for that exertion you have promised me and to which I know you to be fully equal Risk not my dear girl to others those outward marks of sensibility which to common or unfeeling observers seem but the effect of an unbecoming remissness in the self-command which should dignify every female who would do herself honour I had hoped in this house at least you would not have been misunderstood but I have this moment been undeceived Miss Margland has just expressed a species of compassion for what she presumes to be the present state of your mind that has given me the severest pain
He stopt for Camilla looked thunderstruck
Approaching her then with a look of concern and a voice of tenderness he kindly took her hand and added I do not tell you this in displeasure but to put you upon your guard You will hear from Eugenia that we shall not dine alone and from what I have dropt you will gather how little you can hope to escape scrutiny Exert yourself to obviate all humiliating surmises and you will amply be repaid by the balm of self-approbation
He then kissed her and quitted the room
She now remained in utter despair the least idea of disgrace totally broke her spirit and she sat upon the same spot on which Mr Tyrold had left her till the ringing of the second dinner bell
She then gloomily resolved to plead an headache and not to appear
When a footman tapt at her door to acquaint her every body was seated at the table she sent down this excuse forming to herself the further determination that the same should suffice for the evening and for the next morning that she might avoid the sight of Edgar in presence either of her father or Miss Margland
Eugenia with kind alarm came to know what was the matter and informed her that Sir Hugh had been so much concerned at the accident of Edgar that he had insisted upon seeing him and after heartily shaking hands had promised to think no more of past mistakes and disappointments as they had now been cleared up to the county and desired him to take up his abode at Cleves for a week
Camilla heard this with mixt pleasure and pain She rejoiced that Edgar should be upon his former terms with her beloved uncle but how preserve the caution demanded from her for so long a period in the constant sight of her now watchful father and the malicious Miss Margland
She had added to her own difficulties by this present absconding and with severe selfblame resolved to descend to tea But while settling how to act after her sister had left her she was struck with hearing the name of Mandlebert pronounced by Mary the housemaid who was talking with Molly Mill upon the landing place Why it had been spoken she knew not but Molly answered Dearee me never mind Ill help you to do his room if Nanny dont come in time My little mistress would rather do it herself than he should want for anything
Why its natural enough said Mary for young ladies to like young gentlemen and theres none other comes a nigh em which I often thinks dull enough for our young misses And to be certain Mr Mandlebert would be as pretty a match for one of em as a body could desire
And his man said Molly is as pretty a gentleman sort of person to my mind as his master Im sure Im as glad as my young lady when they comes to the house
O as to Miss Eugeny said Mary I believe in my conscience she likes our crackheaded old Doctor as well as eer a young gentleman in Christendom for there shell sit with him hour by hour poring over such a heap of stuff as never was seed reading first one then tother God knows what for I believe never nobody heard the like of it before and all the time never give the old Doctor a cross word—
She never given nobody a cross word interrupted Molly if I was Mr Mandlebert Id sooner have her than any of em for all shes such a nidging little thing
For certain said Mary shes very good and a deal of good she does to all as asks her but Miss Camilla for my money Shes all alive and merry and makes poor master young again to look at her I wish Mr Mandlebert would have her for I have overheard Miss Margland telling Miss Lynmere she was desperate fond of him and did all she could to get him
Camilla felt flushed with the deepest resentment and could scarcely command herself to forbear charging Miss Margland with this persecuting cruelty
Nanny the under housemaid now joining them said she had been detained to finish altering a curtain for Miss Margland And the cross old Frump she added is in a worse spite than ever and she kept abusing that sweet Mr Mandlebert to Miss Lynmere all the while till she went down to dinner and she said she was sure it was all Miss Camillas doings his staying here again for she could come over master for any thing: and she said she supposed it was to have another catch at the young Squires heart but she hoped he would not be such a fool
Im sure I wish he would cried Molly Mill if it was only to spite her shes such a nasty old viper And Miss Camillas always so goodnatured and so affable shed make him a very agreeable wife I dare say
And shes mortal fond of him thats true said Mary for when they was both here I always see her a running to the window to see who was a coming into the park when he was rode out and when he was in the house she never so much as went to peep if there come six horses one after tother And she was always a saying Mary whos in the parlour Mary whos below while he was here but before he come duce a bite did she ask about nobody
I like when I meets her said Molly Mill to tell her Mr Mandleberts here Miss or Mr Mandleberts there Miss—Dearee me one may almost see one self in her eyes it makes them shine so
Camilla could endure no more she arose and walked about the room and the maids who had concluded her at dinner hearing her step hurried away to finish their gossiping in the room of Mandlebert
Camilla now felt wholly sunk the persecutions of Miss Margland seemed nothing to this blow they were cruel she could therefore repine at them they were unprovoked she could therefore repel them but to find her secret feelings thus generally spread and familiarity commented upon from her own unguarded conduct exhausted at once patience fortitude and hope and left her no wish but to quit Cleves while Edgar should remain there
Certain however that her father would not permit her to return to Etherington alone a visit to Mrs Arlbery was the sole refuge she could suggest and she determined to solicit his permission to accept immediately the invitation of that lady
CHAPTER IV
A Dodging
Camilla waited in the apartment of Mr Tyrold till he came up stairs and then begged his leave to spend a few days at the Grove hinting when he hesitated though with a confusion that was hardly short of torture at what had passed amongst the servants
He heard her with the tenderest pity and the kindest praise of her sincerity and deeply as he was shocked to find her thus generally betrayed he was too compassionate to point out at so suffering a moment the indiscretions from which such observations must have originated Yet he saw consequences the most unpleasant in this rumour of her attachment and though he still privately hoped that the behaviour of Mandlebert was the effect of some transient embarrassment he wished her removed from all intercourse with him that was not sought by himself while the incertitude of his intentions militated against her struggles for indifference The result therefore of a short deliberation was to accede to her request
Camilla then wrote her proposition to Mrs Arlbery which Mr Tyrold sent immediately by a stableboy of the baronets
The answer was most obliging Mrs Arlbery said she would herself fetch her the next morning and keep her till one of them should be tired
The relief which this at first brought to Camilla in the weeks exertions it would spare was soon succeeded by the most acute uneasiness for the critical situation of Eugenia and the undoubted disapprobation of Edgar To quit her sister at a period when she might serve her to forsake Cleves at the moment Edgar was restored to it seemed selfish even to herself and to him must appear unpardonable Alas she cried how for ever I repent my hasty actions Why have I not better struggled against my unfortunate feelings
She now almost hated her whole scheme regretted its success wished herself suffering every uneasiness Miss Margland could inflict and all the shame of being watched and pitied by every servant in the house in preference to deserting Eugenia and making Mandlebert deem her unworthy But selfupbraiding was all that followed her contrition Mrs Arlbery was to fetch her by appointment and it was now too late to trifle with the conceding goodness of her father
She did not dare excuse herself from appearing at breakfast the next morning lest Mr Tyrold should think her utterly incorrigible to his exhortations
Edgar earnestly inquired after her health as she entered the room she slightly answered she was better and began eating with an apparent eagerness of appetite while he who had expected some kind words upon his own accident surprised and disappointed could swallow nothing
Mr Tyrold seeing and pitying what passed in her mind gave her a commission that enabled her soon to leave the room without affectation and happy to escape she determined to go down stairs no more till Mrs Arlbery arrived She wished to have conversed first upon the affairs of Eugenia with Edgar but to name to him whither she was herself going when she could not possibly name why to give to him a surprise that must recoil upon herself in disapprobation was more than she could endure She had invested him with full powers to counsel and to censure her he would naturally use them to dissuade her from a visit so illtimed and what could she urge in opposition to his arguments that would not seem trifling or wilful
The present moment was all that occupied the present evil all that ever alarmed the breast of Camilla to avoid him therefore now was the whole of her desire unmolested with one anxiety how she might better meet him hereafter
She watched at her window till she saw the groom of Mrs Arlbery gallop into the Park She hastened then to take leave of Sir Hugh whom Mr Tyrold had prepared for her departure but at the door of his apartment she encountered Edgar
You are going out cried he perceiving an alteration in her dress
I am just going to to speak to my uncle cried she stammering and entering the room at the same moment
Sir Hugh kindly wished her much amusement and hoped she would make him long amends when he was better She took leave but again on the landingplace met Edgar who anxious and perlexed watched to speak to her before she descended the stairs Eagerly advancing Do you walk he cried may I ask or am I indiscreet
She answered she had something to say to Eugenia but should be back in an instant She then flew to the chamber of her sister and conjured her to consult Edgar in whatever should occur during her absence Eugenia solemnly consented
Jacob presently tapped at the door to announce that Mrs Arlbery was waiting below in her carriage
How to pass or escape Edgar became now her greatest difficulty she could suggest nothing to palliate to him the step she was taking yet could still less bear to leave him to wild conjecture and certain blame and she was standing irresolute and thoughtful when Mr Tyrold came to summon her
After mildly representing the indecorum of detaining any one she was to receive by appointment he took her apart and putting a packet into her hand I would not he said agitate your spirits this morning by entering upon any topic that might disturb you I have therefore put upon paper what I most desire you to consider You will find it a little sermon upon the difficulties and the conduct of the female heart Read it alone and with attention And now my dearest girl go quietly into the parlour and let one brief and cheerful goodmorrow serve for every body alike
He then returned to his brother
She made Eugenia accompany her down stairs to avoid any solitary attack from Edgar he suffered them to pass but followed to the parlour where she hastily bid adieu to Miss Margland and Indiana but was stopt from running off by the former, who said I wish I had known you intended going out for I designed asking Sir Hugh for the chariot for myself this morning to make a very particular visit
Camilla in a hesitating voice said she should not use her uncles chariot
You walk then
No maam but—there is—there is a carriage—I believe now at the door
O dear whose cried Indiana do pray tell me where you are going while Edgar still more curious than either held out his hand to conduct her that he might obtain better information
I am very glad your headache is so well said Miss Margland but pray—is Mr Mandlebert to be your chaperon
They both blushed though both affected not to hear her but before they could quit the room Indiana who had run to a bowwindow exclaimed Dear if there is not Mrs Arlbery in a beautiful high phaeton
Edgar astonished was now as involuntarily drawing back as Camilla involuntarily was hurrying on but Miss Margland insisting upon an answer desired to know if she should return to dinner
She stammered out No Miss Margland pursued her to ask at what time the chariot was to fetch her and forced from her a confession that she should be away for some days
She was now permitted to proceed Edgar impressed with the deepest displeasure leading her in silence across the hall but stopping an instant at the door This excursion he gravely said will rescue you from no little intended importunity I had purposed tormenting you from time to time for your opinion and directions with respect to Miss Eugenia
And then bowing coldly to Mrs Arlbery who eagerly called out to welcome her he placed her in the phaeton which instantly drove off
He looked after them for some time almost incredulous of her departure but as his amazement subsided into certainty the most indignant disappointment succeeded That she could leave Cleves at the very moment he was reinstated in its society seemed conviction to him of her indifference and that she could leave it in the present state of the affairs of Eugenia made him conclude her so great a slave to the love of pleasure that every duty and all propriety were to be sacrificed to its pursuit I will think of her cried he no more She concealed from me her plan lest I should torment her with admonitions the glaring homage of the Major is better adapted to her taste—She flies from my sincerity to receive his adulation—I have been deceived in her disposition—I will think of her no more
CHAPTER V
A Sermon
The kind reception of Mrs Arlbery and all the animation of her discourse were thrown away upon Camilla An absent smile and a few faint acknowledgments of her goodness were all she could return Eugenia abandoned when she might have been served Edgar contemning when he might have been approving these were the images of her mind which resisted entrance to all other
Tired of fruitless attempts to amuse her Mrs Arlbery upon their arrival at the Grove conducted her to an apartment prepared for her and made use of no persuasion that she would leave it before dinner
Camilla then too unhappy to fear any injunction and resigned to whatever she might receive read the discourse of Mr Tyrold
For Miss Camilla Tyrold
It is not my intention to enumerate my dear Camilla the many blessings of your situation your heart is just and affectionate and will not forget them I mean but to place before you your immediate duties satisfied that the review will ensure their performance
Unused to because undeserving control your days to this period have been as gay as your spirits It is now first that your tranquillity is ruffled it is now therefore that your fortitude has its first debt to pay for its hitherto happy exemption
Those who weigh the calamities of life only by the positive the substantial or the irremediable mischiefs which they produce regard the first sorrows of early youth as too trifling for compassion They do not enough consider that it is the suffering not its abstract cause which demands human commiseration The man who loses his whole fortune yet possesses firmness philosophy a disdain of ambition and an accommodation to circumstances is less an object of contemplative pity than the person who without one real deprivation one actual evil is first or is suddenly forced to recognise the fallacy of a cherished and darling hope
That its foundation has always been shallow is no mitigation of disappointment to him who had only viewed it in its superstructure Nor is its downfall less terrible to its visionary elevator because others had seen it from the beginning as a folly or a chimæra its dissolution should be estimated not by its romance in the unimpassioned examination of a rational looker on but by its believed promise of felicity to its credulous projector
Is my Camilla in this predicament had she wove her own destiny in the speculation of her wishes Alas to blame her I must first forget that delusion while in force has all the semblance of reality, and takes the same hold upon the faculties as truth Nor is it till the spell is broken till the perversion of reason and error of judgment become wilful that Scorn ought to point its finger or Censure its severity
But of this I have no fear The love of right is implanted indelibly in your nature and your own peace is as dependant as mine and as your mothers upon its constant culture
Your conduct hitherto has been committed to yourself Satisfied with establishing your principles upon the adamantine pillars of religion and conscience we have not feared leaving you the entire possession of general liberty Nor do I mean to withdraw it though the present state of your affairs and what for some time past I have painfully observed of your precipitance oblige me to add partial counsel to standing precept and exhortation to advice I shall give them however with diffidence fairly acknowledging and blending my own perplexities with yours
The temporal destiny of woman is enwrapt in still more impenetrable obscurity than that of man She begins her career by being involved in all the worldly accidents of a parent she continues it by being associated in all that may environ a husband and the difficulties arising from this doubly appendant state are augmented by the next to impossibility that the first dependance should pave the way for the ultimate. What parent yet has been gifted with the foresight to say I will educate my daughter for the station to which she shall belong Let us even suppose that station to be fixed by himself rarely as the chances of life authorise such a presumption his daughter all duty and the partner of his own selection solicitous of the alliance is he at all more secure he has provided even for her external welfare What in this sublunary existence, is the state from which she shall neither rise nor fall Who shall say that in a few years a few months perhaps less the situation in which the prosperity of his own views has placed her may not change for one more humble than he has fitted her for enduring or more exalted than he has accomplished her for sustaining The conscience indeed of the father is not responsible for events but the infelicity of the daughter is not less a subject of pity
Again if none of these outward and obvious vicissitudes occur the proper education of a female either for use or for happiness is still to seek still a problem beyond human solution since its refinement or its negligence can only prove to her a good or an evil according to the humour of the husband into whose hands she may fall If fashioned to shine in the great world he may deem the metropolis all turbulence if endowed with every resource for retirement he may think the country distasteful And though her talents her acquirements may in either of these cases be set aside with an only silent regret of wasted youth and application the turn of mind which they have induced the appreciation which they have taught of time of pleasure or of utility will have nurtured inclinations and opinions not so ductile to new sentiments and employments and either submission becomes a hardship or resistance generates dissention
If such are the parental embarrassments against which neither wisdom nor experience can guard who should view the filial without sympathy and tenderness
You have been brought up my dear child without any specific expectation Your mother and myself mutually deliberating upon the uncertainty of the female fate determined to educate our girls with as much simplicity as is compatible with instruction as much docility for various life as may accord with invariable principles and as much accommodation with the world at large as may combine with a just distinction of selected society We hoped thus should your lots be elevated to secure you from either exulting arrogance or bashful insignificance or should they as is more probable be lowly to instil into your understandings and characters such a portion of intellectual vigour as should make you enter into an humbler scene without debasement helplessness or repining
It is now Camilla we must demand your exertions in return Let not these cares to fit you for the world as you may find it be utterly annihilated from doing you good by the uncombated sway of an unavailing however wellplaced attachment
We will not here canvass the equity of that freedom by which women as well as men should be allowed to dispose of their own affections There cannot in nature, in theory nor even in common sense be a doubt of their equal right but disquisitions on this point will remain rather curious than important till the speculatist can superinduce to the abstract truth of the position some proof of its practicability
Meanwhile it is enough for every modest and reasonable young woman to consider that where there are two parties choice can belong only to one of them and then let her call upon all her feelings of delicacy all her notions of propriety to decide Since Man must choose Woman or Woman Man which should come forward to make the choice Which should retire to be chosen
A prepossession directed towards a virtuous and deserving object wears in its first approach the appearance of a mere tribute of justice to merit It seems therefore too natural perhaps too generous to be considered either as a folly or a crime It is only its encouragement where it is not reciprocal that can make it incur the first epithet or where it ought not to be reciprocal that can brand it with the second With respect to this last I know of nothing to apprehend—with regard to the first—I grieve to wound my dearest Camilla yet where there has been no subject for complaint there can have been none for expectation
Struggle then against yourself as you would struggle against an enemy Refuse to listen to a wish to dwell even upon a possibility that opens to your present idea of happiness All that in future may be realised probably hangs upon this conflict I mean not to propose to you in the course of a few days to reinstate yourself in the perfect security of a disengaged mind I know too much of the human heart to be ignorant that the acceleration or delay must depend upon circumstance I can only require from you what depends upon yourself a steady and courageous warfare against the two dangerous underminers of your peace and of your fame imprudence and impatience You have champions with which to encounter them that cannot fail of success good sense and delicacy
Good sense will shew you the power of self-conquest and point out its means It will instruct you to curb those unguarded movements which lay you open to the strictures of others It will talk to you of those boundaries which custom forbids your sex to pass and the hazard of any individual attempt to transgress them It will tell you that where allowed only a negative choice it is your own best interest to combat against a positive wish It will bid you by constant occupation vary those thoughts that now take but one direction and multiply those interests which now recognise but one object and it will soon convince you that it is not strength of mind which you want but reflection to obtain a strict and unremitting control over your passions
This last word will pain but let it not shock you You have no passions my innocent girl at which you need blush though enough at which I must tremble—For in what consists your constraint your forbearance your wish is your guide your impulse is your action Alas never yet was mortal created so perfect that every wish was virtuous or every impulse wise
Does a secret murmur here demand if a discerning predilection is no crime why internally at least may it not be cherished whom can it injure or offend that in the hidden recesses of my own breast I nourish superior preference of superior worth
This is the question with which every young woman beguiles her fancy this is the common but seductive opiate with which inclination lulls reason
The answer may be safely comprised in a brief appeal to her own breast
I do not desire her to be insensible to merit I do not even demand she should confine her social affections to her own sex since the most innocent esteem is equally compatible though not equally general with ours I require of her simply that in her secret hours when pride has no dominion and disguise would answer no purpose she will ask herself this question Could I calmly hear that this elect of my heart was united to another Were I to be informed that the indissoluble knot was tied which annihilates all my own future possibilities would the news occasion me no affliction This and this alone is the test by which she may judge the danger or the harmlessness of her attachment
I have now endeavoured to point out the obligations which you may owe to good sense Your obligations to delicacy will be but their consequence
Delicacy is an attribute so peculiarly feminine that were your reflections less agitated by your feelings you could delineate more distinctly than myself its appropriate laws its minute exactions its sensitive refinements Here therefore I seek but to bring back to your memory what livelier sensations have inadvertently driven from it
You may imagine in the innocency of your heart that what you would rather perish than utter can never since untold be suspected and at present I am equally sanguine in believing no surmise to have been conceived where most it would shock you yet credit me when I assure you that you can make no greater mistake than to suppose that you have any security beyond what sedulously you must earn by the most indefatigable vigilance There are so many ways of communication independent of speech that silence is but one point in the ordinances of discretion You have nothing in so modest a character to apprehend from vanity or presumption you may easily therefore continue the guardian of your own dignity but you must keep in mind that our perceptions want but little quickening to discern what may flatter them and it is mutual to either sex to be to no gratification so alive as to that of a conscious ascendance over the other
Nevertheless the female who upon the softening blandishment of an undisguised prepossession builds her expectation of its reciprocity is in common most cruelly deceived It is not that she has failed to awaken tenderness but it has been tenderness without respect nor yet that the person thus elated has been insensible to flattery but it has been a flattery to raise himself not its exciter in his esteem The partiality which we feel inspires diffidence that which we create has a contrary effect A certainty of success in many destroys in all weakens its charm the bashful excepted to whom it gives courage and the indolent to whom it saves trouble
Carefully then beyond all other care shut up every avenue by which a secret which should die untold can further escape you Avoid every species of particularity neither shun nor seek any intercourse apparently and in such meetings as general prudence may render necessary or as accident may make inevitable endeavour to behave with the same open esteem as in your days of unconsciousness The least unusual attention would not be more suspicious to the world than the least undue reserve to the subject of our discussion Coldness or distance could only be imputed to resentment and resentment since you have received no offence how should it be investigated could you vindicate or how should it be passed in silence secure from being attributed to pique and disappointment
There is also another motive important to us all which calls for the most rigid circumspection The person in question is not merely amiable he is also rich mankind at large therefore would not give merely to a sense of excellence any obvious predilection This hint will I know powerfully operate upon your disinterested spirit
Never from personal experience may you gather how far from soothing how wide from honourable is the species of compassion ordinarily diffused by the discovery of an unreturned female regard That it should be felt unsought may be considered as a mark of discerning sensibility but that it should be betrayed uncalled for is commonly however ungenerously imagined rather to indicate ungoverned passions than refined selection This is often both cruel and unjust yet let me ask—Is the world a proper confident for such a secret Can the woman who has permitted it to go abroad reasonably demand that consideration and respect from the community in which she has been wanting to herself To me it would be unnecessary to observe that her indiscretion may have been the effect of an inadvertence which owes its origin to artlessness not to forwardness She is judged by those who hardened in the ways of men accustom themselves to trace in evil every motive to action or by those who preferring ridicule to humanity seek rather to amuse themselves wittily with her susceptibility than to feel for its innocence and simplicity
In a state of utter constraint to appear natural is however an effort too difficult to be long sustained and neither precept example nor disposition have enured my poor child to the performance of any studied part Discriminate nevertheless between hypocrisy and discretion The first is a vice the second a conciliation to virtue It is the bond that keeps society from disunion the veil that shades our weakness from exposure giving time for that interior correction which the publication of our infirmities would else with respect to mankind make of no avail
It were better no doubt worthier nobler to meet the scrutiny of our fellowcreatures by consent as we encounter per force the allviewing eye of our Creator but since for this we are not sufficiently without blemish we must allow to our unstable virtues all the encouragement that can prop them The event of discovered faults is more frequently callousness than amendment and propriety of example is as much a duty to our fellowcreatures as purity of intention is a debt to ourselves
To delicacy in fine your present exertions will owe their future recompence be your ultimate lot in life what it may Should you in the course of time belong to another you will be shielded from the regret that a former attachment had been published or should you continue mistress of yourself from a blush that the world is acquainted it was not by your choice
I shall now conclude this little discourse by calling upon you to annex to whatever I have offered you of precept the constant remembrance of your mother for example.
In our joint names therefore I adjure you my dearest Camilla not to embitter the present innocence of your suffering by imprudence that may attach to it censure nor by indulgence that may make it fasten upon your vitals Imprudence cannot but end in the demolition of that dignified equanimity and modest propriety which we wish to be uniformly remarked as the attributes of your character and indulgence by fixing may envenom a dart that as yet may be gently withdrawn from a wound which kindness may heal and time may close but which if neglected may wear away in corroding disturbance all your lifes comfort to yourself and all its social purposes to your friends and to the world
Augustus Tyrold
CHAPTER VI
A Chat
The calm sadness with which Camilla had opened her letter was soon broken in upon by the interest of its contents the view it displayed of her duties her shame at her recent failures and her fears for their future execution and yet more than all by the full decision in which it seemed written that the unhappy partiality she had exposed had been always and would for ever remain unreturned
She started at the intimation how near she stood to detection even from Edgar himself and pride reason modesty all arose to strengthen her with resolution to guard every future conflict from his observation
The article concerning fortune touched her to the quick Nothing appeared to her so degrading as the most distant idea that such a circumstance could have any force with her But the justice done to Edgar she gloried in as an apology for her feelings and exculpatory of her weakness Her tears flowed fast at every expression of kindness to herself her burning blushes dried them up as they were falling at every hint of her feebleness and the hopelessness of its cause but wholly subdued by the last paragraph which with reverence she pressed to her lips she offered up the most solemn vows of a strict and entire observance of every injunction which the letter contained
She was thus employed unnoticing the passage of time when Mrs Arlbery tapped at her door and asked if she wished to dine in her own room
Surprised at the question and ashamed to be thus seen she was beginning a thousand apologies for not being yet dressed but Mrs Arlbery interrupting her said I never listen to excuses Tis the only battery that overpowers me If by any mischance and in an evil hour some country cousin not knowing my ways or some antediluvian prig not minding them happen to fall upon me with formal speeches where I can make no escape a fit of yawning takes me immediately and I am demolished for the rest of the day
Camilla attempting to smile promised to play the country cousin no more Mrs Arlbery then observed she had been weeping and taking her hand with an examining look My lovely young friend she cried this will never do
What maam how what
Nay nay dont be frightened Come down to dinner and well talk over the hows and the whats afterwards Never mind your dress we go no where this evening and I make a point not to suffer any body to change their attire in my house merely because the afternoon is taking place of the morning It seems to me a miserable compliment to the mistress of a mansion to see her guests only equip themselves for the table For my part I deem the garb that is good enough for me good enough for my geese and turkies apple and oystersauce included
Camilla then followed her down stairs where she found no company but Sir Sedley Clarendel
Come my dear Miss Tyrold said Mrs Arlbery you and I may now consider ourselves as têteàtête Sir Sedley wont be much in our way He hears and sees nothing but himself
Ecstatically flattering that cried Sir Sedley dulcet to every nerve
O I know you listen just now because you are yourself my theme But the moment I take another you will forget we are either of us in the room
Inhuman to the quick cried he barbarous to a point
This is a creature so strange Miss Tyrold said Mrs Arlbery that I must positively initiate you a little into his character—or rather into its own caricature for as to character he has had none intelligible these three years—See but how he smiles at the very prospect of being portrayed in defiance of all his efforts to look unconcerned yet he knows I shall shew him no mercy But like all other egotists the only thing to really disconcert him would be to take no notice of him Make him but the first subject of discourse and praise or abuse are pretty much the same to him
O shocking shocking killing past resuscitation Abominably horrid I protest
O I have not begun yet This is an observation to suit thousands But do not fear you shall have all your appropriations Miss Tyrold you are to be auditor and judge and I will save you the time and the trouble which decyphering this animal so truly a nondescript might cost you
What a tremendous exordium distressing to a degree I am agued with trepidation
O you wretch you know you are enchanted But no further interruption I send you to Coventry for the next ten minutes
This man my dear Miss Tyrold whom we are about to delineate was meant by nature and prepared by art for something greatly superior to what he now appears but unhappily he had neither solidity of judgment nor humility of disposition for bearing meekly the early advantages with which he set out in life a fine person fine parts and a fine estate all dashed into consciousness at the presuming age of one and twenty By this aggregate of wealthy of mental and of personal prosperity he has become at once self spoilt and world spoilt Had you known him as I have done before he was seized with this systematic affectation which I am satisfied causes him more study than the united pedants of both universities could inflict upon him you would have seen the most delightful creature breathing a creature combining in one animated composition the very essences of spirit of gaiety and of intelligence But now with every thing within his reach nothing seems worth his attainment He has not sufficient energy to make use of his own powers He has no one to command him and he is too indolent to command himself He has therefore turned fop from mere wantonness of time and of talents from having nothing to do no one to care for and no one to please Take from him half his wit and by lessening his presumption you will cure him of all his folly Rob him of his fortune and by forcing him into exertion you will make him one of the first men of his day Deface and maim his features and figure and by letting him see that to appear and be admired is not the same thing you will render him irresistible
Have you done cried the baronet smiling
I protest said Mrs Arlbery I believe you are a little touched And I dont at all want to reform you A perfect character only lulls me to sleep
Obliging in the superlative I must then take as a consolation that I have never given you a nap
Never Clarendel I assure you and yet I dont hate you Vice is detestable I banish all its appearances from my coteries and I would banish its reality, too were I sure I should then have any thing but empty chairs in my drawingroom—but foibles make all the charm of society They are the only support of convivial raillery and domestic wit If formerly therefore you more excited my admiration it is now believe me you contribute most to my entertainment
Condoling to a phenomenon! I have really then the vastly prodigious honour to be exalted in your fair graces to the level of a mountebank a quack doctor his merry Andrew or any other such respectable buffoon
Piqued piqued I declare this exceeds my highest ambition But I must not weaken the impression by dwelling upon it
She then asked Camilla if she had any message for Cleves as one of her servants was going close to the park gate
Camilla glad to withdraw said she would write a few words to her father and retired for that purpose
What in the world my dear Clarendel said Mrs Arlbery can I do with this poor thing She has lost all her sprightliness and vapours me but to look at her She has all the symptoms upon her of being in the full meridian of that common girlish disease an hopeless passion
Poor little tender dove cried the baronet Twould be odious to cure her Unfeeling to excess What in nature can be half so mellifluously interesting I shall now look at her with most prodigious softness Ought one not to sigh as she approaches
The matter to be sure is silly enough answered Mrs Arlbery but this nonsense apart she is a charming girl Besides I perceive I am a violent favourite with her and flattery my dear Clarendel will work its way even with me I really owe her a good turn Else I should no longer endure her for the tender passion has terribly flattened her If we cant restore her spirits she will be a mere dead weight to me
O a very crush a cannon ball would be a butterfly in the comparison But who is the irresistible What form has the little blind traitor assumed
O assure yourself that of the first young man who has come in her sight Every damsel as she enters the world has some picture ready painted upon her imagination of an object worthy to enslave her and before any experience forms her judgment or any comparison her taste she is the dupe of the first youth who presents himself to her in the firm persuasion of her ductile fancy that he is just the model it had previously created
She then added she had little doubt but young Mandlebert was the hero from their private conferences after the raffle and from her blushes when forced to name him
Nay nay this is not the first incongruity said the young baronet not romantic to outrage Beech Park has nothing very horrific in it Nothing invincibly beyond the standard of a young ladys philosophy
Depend upon it thats the very idea its master has conceived of the matter himself You wealthy Cavaliers rarely want flappers to remind you of your advantages That Mandlebert you must know is my aversion He has just that air and reputation of faultlessness that gives me the spleen I hope for her sake he wont think of her he will lead her a terrible life A man who piques himself upon his perfections finds no mode so convenient and ready for displaying them as proving all about him to be constantly in the wrong However a character of that stamp rarely marries especially if he is rich and has no obstacles in his way What can I do then for this poor thing The very nature of her malady is to make her entertain false hopes I am quite bent upon curing them The only difficulty according to custom is how I wish you would take her in hand yourself
I preposterous in the extreme what particle of chance should I have against Mandlebert
O you vain wretch to be sure you dont know that though he is rich you are richer and doubtless you never took notice that though he is handsome you are handsomer As to manners there is little to choose between you for he is as much too correct as you are too fantastic In conversation too you are nearly upon a par for he is as regularly too right as you are ridiculously too wrong—but O the charm of dear amusing wrong over dull commanding right you have but to address yourself to her with a little flattering distinction and Mandlebert ever after will appear to her a pedant
What a wicked sort of sprite is a female wit cried Sir Sedley breathing only in mischief a very willothewisp personified and petticoated shining but to lead astray Dangerous past all fathom Have the goodness however my fair Jackolanthorn to intimate what you mean I should do with this languishing dulcinea should I deliver her from thraldom You dont advise me I presume to take unto myself a wife I protest I am shivered to the utmost point north at the bare suggestion frozen to an icicle
No no I know you far too confirmed an egotist for any thing but an old bachelor Nor is there the least necessity to yoke the poor child to the conjugal plough so early The only sacrifice I demand from you is a little attention the only good I aim at for her is to open her eyes which have now a film before them and to let her see that Mandlebert has no other preeminence than that of having been the first young man with whom she became acquainted Never imagine I want her to fall in love with you Heaven help the poor victim to such a complication of caprice
Nay now I am full south again burning with shame and choler How you navigate my sensations from cold to heat at pleasure Cooke was a mere river waterman to you My blood chills or boils at your command Every sentence is a new climate You waft me from extreme to extreme with a rapidity absolutely dizzying A balloon is a broadwheeled wagon to you
Come come jargon apart will you make yourself of any use The cure of a romantic first flame is a better surety to subsequent discretion than all the exhortations of all the fathers and mothers and guardians and maiden aunts in the universe Save her now and you serve her for life—besides giving me a prodigious pleasure in robbing that frigid Mandlebert of such a conquest
Unhappy young swain I pity him to immensity How has he fallen thus under the rigour of your wrath Do you banish him your favour like another Aristides to relieve your ear from hearing him called the Just
Was ever allusion so impertinent or what is worse for aught I can determine so true for certainly he has given me no offence yet I feel I should be enchanted to humble him Dont be concerned for him however you may assure yourself he hates me There is a certain spring in our propensities to one another, that involuntarily opens and shuts in almost exact harmony whether of approbation or antipathy Except indeed in the one article of love which distinguishing nothing is ready to grasp at any thing.'
But why have you not recourse to the gallant cockade
The Major O I have observed already she receives his devoirs without emotion which for a girl who has seen nothing of the world is respectable enough his red coat considered Whether the man has any meaning himself or whether he knows there is such a thing I cannot tell but as I do not wish to see her surrounded with brats while a mere brat herself it is not worth inquiry You are the thing Clarendel the very thing You are just agreeable enough to annul her puerile fascination yet not interesting enough to involve her in any new danger
Flattering past imitability divine Arlberiana
Girls in general continued she are insupportable nuisances to women If you do not set them to prate about their admirers or their admired they die of weariness—if you do the weariness reverberates upon yourself
Camilla here returned She had written a few lines to Eugenia to enforce her reliance upon Edgar with an earnest request to be sent for immediately if any new difficulty occurred And she had addressed a few warmly grateful words to her father engaging to follow his every injunction with her best ability
Sir Sedley now rung for his carriage and Camilla for the rest of the evening exerted herself to receive more cheerfully the kind civilities of her lively hostess
CHAPTER VII
A Recall
After two days passed with tolerable though not natural cheerfulness at the Grove Camilla was surprised by the arrival of the carriage of Sir Hugh with a short note from Eugenia
To Miss Camilla Tyrold
An incident has happened that overpowers me with sadness and horror I cannot write I send the chariot O come and pass an hour or two at Cleves with your distressed
Eugenia
Camilla could scarcely stop to leave a message for Mrs Arlbery before she flew to the carriage nor even inquire for her uncle at Cleves before she ran to the apartment of Eugenia and with a thousand tender caresses desired to know what had thus cruelly afflicted her
Alas she answered my uncle has written to Clermont to come over—and informed him with what view
She then related that Indiana the preceding day had prevailed with Sir Hugh to let her go to the Middleton races and she found he would be quite unhappy if she refused to be also of the party That they had been joined by Bellamy on the race ground who only however spoke to Miss Margland as Edgar watchful and uneasy scarce let him even see anyone else But the horses having taken fright while they were in a great crowd Bellamy had persuaded Miss Margland to alight while the coach passed a terrible concourse of carriages and in that interval he had contrived to whisper a claim upon her tacit promise of viewing the chaise which was for ever to convey him away from her and though her engagement to Edgar made her refuse he had drawn her she knows not herself how from her party and while she was angrily remonstrating and he seemed in the utmost despair at her displeasure Edgar who had been at first eluded by being on horseback dismounted forced his way to her and almost carried her back to the coach leaving Bellamy who she was sure had no sinister design nearly dead with grief at being unworthily suspected Edgar she however added was fixed in believing he meant to convey her away and Jacob asserting he saw him purposely frighten the horses had told his surmises to Sir Hugh which he had corroborated by an account that the same gentleman had stopt to converse with her in her last return from Etherington Sir Hugh terrified had declared he would no longer live without Clermont upon the spot She had felt too much for his disturbance to oppose him at the moment but had not imagined his plan would immediately be put into execution till early this morning he had sent for her and produced his letter of recall which had taken him he said the whole night to compose and finish Urged by surprise and dissatisfaction she was beginning a little remonstrance but found it made him so extremely unhappy that in the fear of a relapse she desisted and with a shock she knew not when she should overcome saw the fatal letter delivered for the post
Camilla with much commiseration inquired if she had consulted with Edgar Yes she answered and he had extorted her permission to relate the whole transaction to her father though in a manner wide from justice to the illfated Bellamy whose design might be extraordinary but whose character she was convinced was honourable
Camilla whose education though private had not like that of Eugenia been secluded and studious was far less credulous than her sister though equally artless She knew too with regard to this affair the opinion of Edgar and to know and be guided by it was imperceptibly one She declared herself therefore openly against Bellamy and made her motives consist in a commentary upon his proceedings
Eugenia warmly defended him declaring the judgment of Camilla and that of all her friends to be formed in the dark for that none of them could have doubted a moment his goodness or his honour had they seen the distracted suffering that was marked in his countenance
And what cried Camilla says my father to all this
He says just what Edgar says—he is all that is kind and good but he has never beheld Bellamy—how then should he know him
A message came now from Sir Hugh to Camilla that he would see her before she went but that he was resting at present from the fatigue of writing a letter He sent her however with his love the foul copy to amuse her till she could come to him
To Clermont Lynmere Esq
Dear Nephew
I have had a very dangerous illness and the doctors themselves are all surprised that I recovered but a greater doctor than them was pleased to save me for which I thank God But as this attack has made me think more than ever I thought before I am willing to turn my thoughts to good account
Now as I have not the gift of writing at which thank God I have left off repining from the reason of its great troublesomeness in acquiring I cant pretend to any thing of a fine letter but shall proceed to business
My dear Clermont I write now to desire you would come over out of hand which I hope you wont take unkind foreign parts being no great pleasure to see in comparison of old England besides which I have another apology to offer which is having a fine prize in view for you which is the more essential owing to some unlucky circumstances in which I did not behave quite as well as I wish though very unwillingly which I mention to you as a warning However you have no need to be cast down for this prize will set all right and make you as rich as a lord at the same time that you are as wise as a philosopher And as learning though I have the proper respect for it wont serve to make the pot boil you must needs be glad of more substantial fuel for theres no living upon air however you students may affect to think eating mere gluttony
Now this prize is no other than your cousin Eugenia Tyrold whom I dont tell you is a beauty but if you are the sensible lad I take you for you wont think the worse of her for wanting such frail perfections Besides we should not be too nice amongst relations for if we are what can we expect from the wide world So I beg you to come over with all convenient speed for fear of her falling a prey to some sharper many such being to be found especially at horseraces and so forth I remain
Dear nephew
Your affectionate uncle
Hugh Tyrold
Eugenia from motives of delicacy and of shame declined reading the copy as she had declined reading the letter but looked so extremely unhappy that Camilla offered to plead with her uncle and use her utmost influence that he would countermand the recall
No answered she no tis a point of duty and gratitude and I must bear its consequences
She was now called down to Mr Tyrold Camilla accompanied her
He told her he had gathered from the kind zeal and inquiries of Edgar that Bellamy had certainly laid a premeditated plan for carrying her off if she went to the races which as the whole neighbourhood was there might reasonably be expected
Eugenia with fervour protested such wickedness was impossible
I am unwilling my dear child he answered to adulterate the purity of your thoughts and expectations by inculcating suspicions but though nature has blessed you with an uncommon understanding remember in judgment you are still but fifteen and in experience but a child One thing however tell me candidly is it from love of justice or is it for your happiness you combat thus ardently for the integrity of this young man
For my justice Sir said she firmly
And no latent reason mingles with and enforces it
None believe me save only what gratitude dictates
If your heart then is your own my dear girl do not be uneasy at the letter to Clermont Your uncle is the last man upon earth to put any constraint upon your inclinations and need I add to my dearest Eugenia I am the last father to thwart or distress them Resume therefore your courage and composure be just to your friends and happy in yourself
Reason was never thrown away upon Eugenia Her mind was a soil which received and naturalized all that was sown in it She promised to look forward with more cheerfulness and to dwell no longer upon this agitating transaction
Edgar now came in He was going to Beech Park to meet Bellamy He was charged with a long message for him from Sir Hugh and an order to inform him that his niece was engaged which however he declined undertaking without first consulting her
This was almost too severe a trial of the duty and fortitude of Eugenia She coloured and was quitting the room in silence but presently turning back My uncle she cried is too ill now for argument and he is too dear to me for opposition—Say then just what you think will most conduce to his tranquillity and recovery
Her father embraced her Camilla shed tears and Edgar in earnest admiration kissed her hand She received their applause with sensibility but looked down with a secret deduction from its force as she internally uttered My task is not so difficult as they believe touched as I am with the constancy of Bellamy—It is not Melmond who loves me it is not Melmond I reject—
Edgar was immediately setting off but stopping him—One thing alone I beg she said do not communicate your intelligence abruptly Soften it by assurances of my kind wishes—Yet to prevent any deception any future hope—say to him—if you think it right—that I shall regard myself henceforward as if already in that holy state so sacred to one only object
She blushed and left them followed by Camilla
If born but yesterday cried Mr Tyrold while his eyes glistened she could not be more perfectly free from guile
Yet that said Edgar is but half her praise she is perfectly free also from self she is made up of disinterested qualities and liberal sensations To the most genuine simplicity she joins the most singular philosophy and to knowledge and cultivation the most uncommon adds all the modesty as well as innocence of her extreme youth and inexperience
Mr Tyrold subscribed with frankness to this just praise of his highlyvalued daughter and they then conferred upon the steps to be taken with Bellamy whom neither of them scrupled to pronounce a mere fortunehunter All the inquiries of Edgar were ineffectual to learn any particulars of his situation He said he was travelling for his amusement but he had no recommendation to anyone though by being constantly welldressed and keeping a shewy footman he had contrived to make acquaintance almost universally in the neighbourhood Mr Tyrold determined to accompany Edgar to Beech Park himself and there in the most peremptory terms to assure him of the serious measures that would ensue if he desisted not from his pursuit
He then went to take leave of Camilla who had been making a visit to her uncle and was returning to the Grove
He had seen with concern the frigid air with which Edgar had bowed to her upon his entrance and with compassion the changed countenance with which she had received his formal salutation His hope of the alliance now sunk and so favourite a wish could not be relinquished without severe disappointment yet his own was immaterial to him when he looked at Camilla and saw in her expressive eyes the struggle of her soul to disguise her wounded feelings He now regretted that she had not accompanied her mother abroad and desired nothing so earnestly as any means to remove her from all intercourse with Mandlebert He seconded therefore her speed to be gone happy she would be placed where exertion would be indispensable and gently yet clearly intimated his wish that she should remain at the Grove till she could meet Edgar without raising pain in her own bosom or exciting suspicions in his Cruelly mortified she silently acquiesced He then said whatever was most kind to give her courage but dejected by her conscious failure and afflicted by the change in Edgar she returned to Mrs Arlbery in a state of mind the most melancholy
And here nothing could be less exhilarating nor less seasonable than the first news she heard
The regiment of General Kinsale was ordered into Kent in the neighbourhood of Tunbridge It was the season for drinking the water of that spring and Mr Dennel was going thither with his daughter Sir Sedley Clarendel conceived it would be serviceable also to his own health and had suddenly proposed to Mrs Arlbery forming a party to pass a few weeks there With a vivacity always ready for any new project she instantly agreed to it and the journey was settled to take place in three days When Camilla was informed of this intended excursion the disappointment with which it overpowered her was too potent for disguise and Mrs Arlbery was so much struck with it that during coffee she took Sir Sedley apart and said I feel such concern for the dismal alteration of that sweet girl that I could prevail with myself all lovelorn as she is to take her with me to Tunbridge if you will aid my hardy enterprise of driving that frozen composition of premature wisdom from her mind If you are not as invulnerable as himself you cannot refuse me this little sleight of gallantry
Sir Sedley gave a laughing assent declaring at the same time with the strongest professed diffidence his conscious inability Mrs Arlbery in high spirits said she scarce knew which would most delight her to mortify Edgar or restore Camilla to gaiety and independance Yet she would watch she said that matters went no further than just to shake off a whining first love for the last thing upon earth she intended was to entangle her in a second
Camilla received the invitation with pleasure yet anxiety for though glad to be spared returning to Cleves in a state of disturbance so suspicious she was bitterly agitated in reflecting upon the dislike of Edgar to Mrs Arlbery the pains he had taken to prevent her mingling with this society and the probably final period to his esteem and goodwill that would prove the result of her accompanying such a party to a place of amusement
CHAPTER VIII
A Youth of the Times
Mrs Arlbery accompanied Camilla the next day to Cleves to ask permission of Mr Tyrold for the excursion She would trust the request to none but herself conscious of powers of persuasion unused to repulse
Mr Tyrold was distressed by the proposition: he was not satisfied in trusting his unguarded Camilla to the dissipation of a public place except under the wing of her mother though he felt eager to remove her from Edgar and rejoiced in any opportunity to allow her a change of scene that might revive her natural spirits and unchain her heart from its unhappy subjection
Perceiving him undetermined Mrs Arlbery called forth all her artillery of eloquence and grace to forward her conquest The licence she allowed herself in common of fantastic command gave way to the more feminine attraction of soft pleading her satire which though never malignant was often alarming was relinquished for a sportive gaiety that diffused general animation and Mr Tyrold soon though not caught like his daughter ceased to wonder that his daughter had been caught
In this indecision he took Camilla apart and bade her tell him without fear or reserve her own feelings her own wishes her own opinion upon this scheme She held such a call too serious and too kind for disguise she hid her face upon his shoulder and wept he soothed and encouraged her to confidence and in broken accents she then acknowledged herself unequal as yet to fulfilling his injunctions of appearing cheerful and easy though sensible of their wisdom
Mr Tyrold with a heavy heart saw how much deeper was her wound than the airiness of her nature had prepared him to expect and could no longer hesitate in granting his consent He saw it was her wish to go but he saw that the pleasures of a public place had no share in exciting it To avoid betraying her conscious mortification was her sole and innocent motive and though he would rather have sent her to a more private spot and have trusted her to a more retired character he yet thought it possible that what opportunity presented unsought might eventually prove more beneficial than what his own choice would have dictated for public amusements to the young and unhackneyed give entertainment without requiring exertion and spirits lively as those of Mrs Arlbery create nearly as much gaiety as they display
Fixed now for the journey he carried Camilla to her uncle to take leave The prospect of not seeing her again for six weeks was gloomy to Sir Hugh though he bore it better at this moment when his fancy was occupied by arranging preparations for the return of Clermont than he could have done at almost any other He put into her hand a fifty pound Bank note for her expences and when with mingled modesty and dejection she would have returned the whole as unnecessary even to her wishes Mr Tyrold interfering made her accept twenty pounds Sir Hugh pressed forward the original sum in vain his brother though always averse to refuse his smallest desire thought it here a duty to be firm that the excursion which he granted as a relief to her sadness might not lead to pleasures ever after beyond her reach nor to their concomitant extravagance She could not he knew reside at Tunbridge with the œconomy and simplicity to which she was accustomed at Etherington but he charged her to let no temptation make her forget the moderate income of which alone she was certain assuring her that where a young womans expences exceeded her known expectations those who were foremost to praise her elegance would most fear to form any connection with her and most despise or deride her in any calamity
Camilla found no difficulty in promising the most exact observance of this instruction her heart seemed in sackcloth and ashes and she cared not in what manner her person should be arrayed
Sir Hugh earnestly enjoined her not to fail to be at Cleves upon the arrival of Clermont intimating that the nuptials would immediately take place
She then sought Eugenia whom she found with Dr Orkborne in a state of mind so perfectly calm and composed as equally to surprise and rejoice her She saw with pleasure that all Bellamy had inspired was the most artless compassion for since his dismission had now positively been given and Clermont was actually summoned she devoted her thoughts solely to the approaching event with the firm though early wisdom which distinguished her character
Indiana joined them and in a low voice said to Camilla Pray cousin do you know where Mr Macdersey is because I am sadly afraid hes dead
Camilla surprised desired to know why she had such an apprehension
Because he told me hed shoot himself through the brains if I was cruel—and I am sure I had no great choice given me for between ourselves Miss Margland gave all the answers for me without once stopping to ask me what I should chuse So if he has really done it the fault is more hers than mine
She then said that just after Camillas departure the preceding day Mr Macdersey arrived and insisted upon seeing her and speaking to Sir Hugh as he was ordered into Kent and could not go so far in suspence Sir Hugh was not well enough to admit him and Miss Margland upon whom the office devolved took upon her to give him a positive refusal and though she went into the room while he was there never once would let her make an answer for herself
Miss Margland she added had frightened Sir Hugh into forbidding him the house by comparing him with Mr Bellamy but Mr Macdersey had frightened them all enough in return as he went away by saying that as soon as ever Sir Hugh was well he would call him out because of his sending him word down stairs not to come to Cleves any more for he had been disturbed enough already by another Irish fortunehunter that came after another of his nieces and he was the more sure Mr Macdersey was one of them because of his being a real Irishman while Mr Bellamy was only an Englishman But dont you think now cousin she continued Miss Margland might as well have let me speak for myself
Camilla inquired if she was sorry for the rejection
N o she answered with some hesitation for Miss Margland says hes got no rentroll besides I dont think hes so agreeable as Mr Melmond only Mr Melmonds worth little or no fortune they say for Miss Margland inquired about it after Mr Mandlebert behaved so Else I cant say I thought Mr Melmond disagreeable
Mrs Arlbery now sent to hasten Camilla who in returning to the parlour met Edgar He had just gathered her intended excursion and sick at heart had left the room Camilla felt the consciousness of a guilty person at his sight but he only slightly bowed and coldly saying I hope you will have much pleasure at Tunbridge went on to his own room
And there replete with resentment for the whole of her late conduct he again blessed Dr Marchmont for his preservation from her toils and concluding the excursion was for the sake of the Major whose regiment he knew to be just ordered into Kent he centered every former hope in the one single wish that he might never see her more
Camilla shocked by such obvious displeasure quitted Cleves with still increasing sadness and Mrs Arlbery would heartily have repented her invitation but for her dependance upon Sir Sedley Clarendel
At Etherington they stopt that Camilla might prepare her package for Tunbridge Mrs Arlbery would not alight
While Camilla with a maidservant was examining her drawers the chamber door was opened by Lionel for whom she had just inquired and who telling her he wanted to speak to her in private turned the maid out of the room
Camilla begged him to be quick as Mrs Arlbery was waiting
Why then my dear little girl cried he the chief substance of the matter is neither more nor less than this I want a little money
My dear brother said Camilla pleasure again kindling in her eyes as she opened her pocketbook you could never have applied to me so opportunely I have just got twenty pounds and I do not want twenty shillings Take it I beseech you any part or all
Lionel paused and seemed half choaked Camilla he cried presently you are an excellent girl If you were as old and ugly as Miss Margland I really believe I should think you young and pretty But this sum is nothing A drop of water to the ocean
Camilla now drawing back disappointed and displeased asked how it was possible he should want more
More my dear child why I want two or three cool hundred
Two or three hundred repeated she amazed
Nay nay dont be frightened My uncle will give you two or three thousand you know that And I really want the money Its no joke I assure you Its a case of real distress
Distress impossible what distress can you have to so prodigious an amount
Prodigious poor little innocent dost think two or three hundred prodigious
And what is become of the large sums extorted from my uncle Relvil
O that was for quite another thing That was for debts Thats gone and over This is for a perfectly different purpose
And will nothing—O Lionel—nothing touch you My poor mothers quitting England her separation from my father and her family my uncle Relvils severe attack will nothing move you to more thoughtful more praiseworthy conduct
Camilla no preaching I might as well cast myself upon the old ones at once I come to you in preference on purpose to avoid sermonising However for your satisfaction and to spur you to serve me I can assure you I have avoided all new debts since the last little deposit of the poor sick hypochondriac miser who is pining away at the loss of a few guineas that he had neither spirit nor health to have spent for himself
Is this your reasoning your repentance Lionel upon such a catastrophe
My dear girl I am heartily concerned at the whole business only as its over I dont like talking of it This is the last scrape I shall ever be in while I live But if you wont help me I am undone You know your influence with my uncle Do theres a dear girl use it for your brother I have not a dependance in the world now but upon you
Certainly I will do whatever I can for you said she sighing but indeed my dear Lionel your manner of going on makes my very heart ache However let this twenty pounds be in part and tell me your very smallest calculation for what must be added
Two hundred A farthing less will be of no use and three will be of thrice the service But mind you must not say its for me
How then can I ask for it
O vamp up some dismal ditty
No Lionel exclaimed she turning away from him you propose what you know to be impracticable
Well then if you must needs say its for me tell him he must not for his life own it to the old ones
In the same breath must I beg and command
O I always make that my bargain I should else be put into the lecture room and not let loose again till I was made a milksop Theyd talk me so into the vapours I should not be able to act like a man for a month to come
A man Lionel
Yes a man of the world my dear a knowing one
Mrs Arlbery now sent to hasten her and he extorted a promise that she would go to Cleves the next morning and procure a draft for the money if possible to be ready for his calling at the Grove in the afternoon
She felt this more deeply than she had time or courage to own to Lionel but her increased melancholy was all imputed to reflections concerning Mandlebert by Mrs Arlbery
That lady lent her chaise the next morning with her usual promptitude of good humour and Camilla went to Cleves with a reluctance that never before accompanied her desire to oblige
Her visit was received most kindly by all the family as merely an additional leave taking in which light though she was too sincere to place it she suffered it to pass Having no chance of being alone with her uncle by accident she was forced to beg him in a whisper to request a têteàtête with her and she then covered with all the confusion of a partner in his extravagance made the petition of Lionel
Sir Hugh seemed much surprised but protested he would rather part with his coat and waistcoat than refuse anything to Camilla He gave her instantly a draft upon his banker for two hundred pounds but added he should take it very kind of her if she would beg Lionel to ask him for no more this year as he was really so hard run he should not else be able to make proper preparations for the wedding till his next rents became due
Camilla was now surprised in her turn and Sir Hugh then confessed that between presents and petitions his nephew had had no less than five hundred pounds from him the preceding year unknown to his parents and that for this year the sum she requested made the seventh hundred without the least account for what purpose it was given
Camilla now heartily repented being a partner in a business so rapacious so unjustifiable and so mysterious but kindly interrupting her apology Dont be concerned my dear he cried for theres no help for these things though what the young boys do with all their money nowadays is odd enough being what I cant make out However hell soon be wiser so we must not be too severe with him though I told him the last time I had rather he would not ask me so often which was being almost too sharp Im afraid considering his youngness for one cant expect him to be an old man at once
Camilla gave voluntarily her word no such application should find her its ambassadress again and though he would have dispensed with the promise she made it the more readily as a guard against her own facility
At least cried the baronet say nothing to my poor brother and more especially to your mother it being but vexatious to such good parents to hear of such idleness not knowing what to think of it for it is a great secret he says what he does with it all for which reason one cant expect him to tell it My poor brother to be sure had rather he should be studying hic hæc hoc but Lord help him I believe he knows no more of that than I do myself and I never could make out much meaning of it any further than its being Latin though I suppose at the time Dr Orkborne might explain it to me taking it for granted he did what was right
Camilla was most willing to agree to concealing from her parents what she knew must so painfully afflict them though she determined to assume sufficient courage to expostulate most seriously with her brother against whom she felt sensations of the most painful anger
Again she now took leave but upon reentering the parlour found Edgar there alone
Involuntarily she was retiring but the counsel of her father recurring to her she compelled herself to advance and say How good you have been to Eugenia how greatly are we all indebted for your kind vigilance and exertion
Edgar who was reading and knew not she was in the house was surprised both by her sight and her address out of all his resolutions and with a softness of voice he meant evermore to deny himself answered To me can any of the Tyrold family talk of being indebted to me—my own obligations to all to every individual of that name have been the pride have been—hitherto—the happiness of my life—
The word hitherto which had escaped affected him he stopt recollected himself and presently more drily added Those obligations would be still much increased if I might flatter myself that one of that race to whom I have ventured to play the officious part of a brother could forget those lectures she can else I fear with difficulty pardon
You have found me unworthy your counsel answered Camilla gravely and looking down you have therefore concluded I resent it but we are not always completely wrong even when wide from being right I have not been culpable of quite so much folly as not to feel what I have owed to your good offices nor am I now guilty of the injustice to blame their being withdrawn You do surely what is wisest though not—perhaps—what is kindest
To these last words she forced a smile and wishing him good morning hurried away
Amazed past expression and touched to the soul he remained a few instants immoveable then resolving to follow her and almost resolving to throw himself at her feet he opened the door she had shut after her he saw her still in the hall but she was in the arms of her father and sisters who had all descended upon hearing she had left Sir Hugh and of whom she was now taking leave
Upon his appearance she said she could no longer keep the carriage but as she hastened from the hall he saw that her eyes were swimming in tears
Her father saw it too with less surprise but more pain He knew her short and voluntary absence from her friends could not excite them his heart ached with paternal concern for her and motioning everybody else to remain in the hall he walked with her to the carriage himself saying in a low voice as he put her in Be of better courage my dearest child Endeavour to take pleasure where you are going—and to forget what you are leaving and if you wish to feel or to give contentment upon earth remember always you must seek to make circumstance contribute to happiness not happiness subservient to circumstance
Camilla bathing his hand with her tears promised this maxim should never quit her mind till they met again
She then drove off
Yes she cried I must indeed study it Edgar cares no more what becomes of me resentment next to antipathy has taken place of his friendship and esteem
She wrote down in her pocketbook the last words of her father she resolved to read them daily and to make them the current lesson of her future and disappointed life
Lionel too impatient to wait for the afternoon was already at the Grove and handed her from the chaise But stopping her in the portico Well he cried wheres my draft
Before I give it you said she seriously and walking from the servants I must entreat to speak a few words to you
You have really got it then cried he in a rapture you are a charming girl the most charming girl I know in the world I wont take your poor twenty pounds I would not touch it for the world But come wheres the draft Is it for the two or the three
For the two and surely my dear Lionel—
For the two O plague take it—only for the two—And when will you get me the odd third
O brother O Lionel what a question Will you make me repent instead of rejoice in the pleasure I have to assist you
Why when he was about it why could he not as well come down like a gentleman at once I am sure I always behaved very handsomely to him
How do you mean
Why I never frightened him never put him beside his poor wits like tother poor nuncle I dont remember I ever did him an ill turn in my life except wanting Dr Pothook there to flog him a little for not learning his book It would have been a rare sight if he had—Dont you think so
Rare indeed I hope
Why now what could he have done if the Doctor had really performed it He could not in justice have found fault when he put himself to school to him But hed have felt a little queer Dont you think he would
You only want to make me laugh to prevent my speaking to the purpose but I am not disposed to laugh and therefore—
O if you are not disposed to laugh you are no company for me Give me my draft therefore
If you will not hear I hope at least Lionel you will think and that may be much more efficacious Shall I put up the twenty I really do not want it And it is all all all I can ever procure you Remember that
What—all—this all—what not even the other little mean hundred
No my dear brother I have promised my uncle no further application—
Why what a stingy fusty old codger to draw such a promise from you
Hold hold Lionel I cannot endure to hear you speak in such a manner of such an uncle the best the most benevolent the most indulgent—
Lord child dont be so precise and old maidish Dont you know its a relief to a mans mind to swear and say a few cutting things when hes in a passion when all the time he would no more do harm to the people he swears at than you would that mince out all your words as if you were talking treason and thought every man a spy that heard you Besides how is a man the worse for a little friendly curse or two provided he does not hear it Its a very innocent refreshment to a mans mind my dear only you know nothing of the world
Mrs Arlbery now approaching he hastily took the draft and after a little hesitation the twenty pounds telling her if she would not ask for him she must ask for herself and that he felt no compunction as he was certain she might draw upon her uncle for every guinea he was worth
He then heartily embraced her said she was the best girl in the world when she did not mount the pulpit and rode off
Camilla felt no concern at the loss of her twenty pounds lowered and unhappy she was rather glad than sorry that her means for being abroad were diminished and that to keep her own room would soon be most convenient
The next day was fixed for the journey
BOOK VI
CHAPTER I
A Walk by Moonlight
Mrs Arlbery and Camilla set off in the coach of Mr Dennel widower of a deceased sister of the husband of Mrs Arlbery whom she was induced to admit of the party that he might aid in bearing the expenses as she could not from some family considerations refuse taking her niece into her coterie Sir Sedley Clarendel drove his own phaeton but instead of joining them according to the condition which occasioned the treaty cantered away his ponies from the very first stage and left word where he changed horses that he should proceed to the hotel upon the Pantiles
Mrs Arlbery was nearly provoked to return to the Grove With Mr Dennel she did not think it worth while to converse her niece she regarded as almost an idiot and Camilla was so spiritless that had not Sir Sedley acceded to her plan this was the last period in which she would have chosen her for a companion
They travelled very quietly to within a few miles of Tunbridge when an accident happened to one of the wheels of the carriage that the coachman said would take some hours to repair They were drawn on with difficulty to a small inn upon the road whence they were obliged to send a man and horse to Tunbridge for chaises
As they were destined now to spend some time in this place Mrs Arlbery retired to write letters and Mr Dennel to read newspapers and invited by a bright moon Camilla and Miss Dennel wandered from a little garden to an adjoining meadow which conducted them to a lane rendered so beautiful by the strong masses of shade with which the trees intercepted the resplendent whiteness of the moon that they walked on catching fresh openings with fresh pleasure till the feet of Miss Dennel grew as weary with the length of the way unbroken by any company as the ears of Camilla with her incessant prattling unaided by any idea Miss Dennel proposed to sit down and while relieving herself by a fit of yawning and stretching Camilla strolled a little further in search of a safe and dry spot
Miss Dennel following in a moment on tiptoe and trembling whispered that she was sure she heard a voice Camilla with a smile asked if only themselves were privileged to enjoy so sweet a night Hush cried she hush I hear it again They listened and in a minute a soft plaintive tone reached their ears too distant to be articulate but undoubtedly female
I dare say its a robber exclaimed Miss Dennel shaking If you dont run back I shall die
Camilla assured her from the gentleness of the sound she must be mistaken and pressed her to advance a few steps further in case it should be anybody ill
But you know said Miss Dennel speaking low people say that sometimes there are noises in the air without its being anybody Suppose it should be that
Still though almost imperceptibly Camilla drew her on till again listening they distinctly heard the words My lovely friend
La how pretty said Miss Dennel lets go a little nearer
They advanced and presently again stopping heard Could pity pour balm into my woes how sweetly would they be alleviated by yours my lovely friend
Miss Dennel now looked enchanted and eagerly led the way herself
In a few minutes arriving at the end of the lane which opened upon a wild and romantic common they caught a glimpse of a figure in white
Miss Dennel turned pale Dear cried she in the lowest whisper what is it
A lady answered Camilla equally cautious not to be heard though totally without alarm
Are you sure of that said Miss Dennel shrinking back and pulling her companion to accompany her
Do you think its a ghost cried Camilla unresisting the retreat yet walking backwards to keep the form in sight
Fie how can you talk so shocking all in the dark so except only for the moon
Yours my lovely friend was now again pronounced in the tenderest accent
Shes talking to herself exclaimed Miss Dennel Lord how frightful and she clung close to Camilla who mounting a little hillock of stones presently perceived that the lady was reading a letter
Miss Dennel tranquillised by hearing this was again content to stop when their ears were suddenly struck by a piercing shriek
O Lord we shall be murdered cried she screaming still louder herself
They both ran back some paces down the lane Camilla determining to send somebody from the inn to inquire what all this meant but presently through an opening in the common they perceived the form in white darting forwards with an air wild and terrified Camilla stopt struck with compassion and curiosity at once Miss Dennel could not quit her but after the first glance hid her face faintly articulating O dont let it see us dont let it see us I am sure its nothing natural I dare say its somebody walking
The next instant they perceived a man looking earnestly around as if to discover who had echoed the scream the place they occupied was in the shade and he did not observe them He soon rushed hastily on and seized the white garment of the flying figure which appeared both by its dress and form to be an elegant female She clasped her hands in supplication cast up her eyes towards heaven and again shrieked aloud
Camilla who possessed that fine internal power of the thinking and feeling mind to adopt courage for terror where any eminent service may be the result of immediate exertion was preparing to spring to her relief while Miss Dennel in extreme agony holding her murmured out Lets run away lets run away shes going to be murdered when they saw the man prostrate himself at the ladys feet in the humblest subjection
Camilla stopt her flight and Miss Dennel appeased called out La his kneeling how pretty it looks I dare say its a lover How I wish one could hear what he says
An exclamation however from the lady uttered in a tone of mingled affright and disgust of leave me leave me was again the signal to Miss Dennel of retreat but of Camilla to advance
The rustling of the leaves caused by her attempt to make way through the breach caught the ears of the suppliant who hastily arose while the lady folded her arms across her breast and seemed ejaculating the most fervent thanks for this relief
Camilla now forced a passage through the hedge and the lady as she saw her approach called out in a voice the most touching Surely tis some pitying Angel mercifully come to my rescue
The pursuer drew back and Camilla in the gentlest words besought the lady to accompany her to the friends she had just left who would be happy to protect her
She gratefully accepted the proposal and Camilla then ventured to look round to see if the object of this alarm had retreated but with an astonishment that almost confounded her she perceived him a few yards off taking a pinch of snuff and humming an opera air
The lady then snatching up her letter which had fallen to the ground touched it with her lips and carefully folding put it into her bosom tenderly ejaculating I have preserved thee O from what danger what violation
Then pressing the hand of Camilla You have saved me she cried from the calamity of losing what is more dear than I have words to express Take me but where I may be shielded from that wretch and what shall I not owe to you
The moon now shining full upon her face Camilla saw seated on it youth sensibility and beauty Her pleasure involuntarily rather than rationally was redoubled that she had proved serviceable to her as in equal proportion was her abhorrence of the man who had caused the disturbance
The three females were now proceeding when the offender with a careless air and yet more careless bow advancing towards them negligently said Shall I have the honour to see you safe home ladies
Camilla felt indignant Miss Dennel again screamed and the stranger with a look of horror and disgust said Persecute me no more
O hang it O curse it cried he swinging his cane to and fro dont be serious I only meant to frighten you about the letter
The lady deigned no answer but murmured to herself that letter is more precious to me than life or light
They now walked on and when they entered the lane they had the pleasure to observe they were not pursued She then said to Camilla You must be surprised to see any one out and unprotected at this late hour but I had employed myself unthinkingly in reading some letters from a dear and absent friend and forgot the quick passage of time
A man in a livery now appearing at some distance she hastily summoned him and demanded where was the carriage
In the road he answered where she had left it at the end of the lane
She then took the hand of Camilla and with a smile of the utmost softness said When the shock I have suffered is a little over I must surely cease to lament I have sustained it since it has brought to me such sweet succour Where may I find you tomorrow to repeat my thanks
Camilla answered she was going to Tunbridge immediately but knew not yet where she should lodge
Tunbridge she repeated I am there myself I shall easily find you out tomorrow morning for I shall know no rest till I have seen you again
She then asked her name and with the most touching acknowledgments took leave
Camilla recounted her adventure to Mrs Arlbery with an animated description of the fair Incognita and with the most heartfelt delight of having though but accidentally proved of service to her Mrs Arlbery laughed heartily at the recital assuring her she doubted not but she had made acquaintance with some dangerous fair one who was playing upon her inexperience and utterly unfit to be known to her Camilla warmly vindicated her innocence from the whole of her appearance as well as from the impossibility of her knowing that her scream could be heard yet was perplexed how to account for her not naming herself and for the mystery of the carriage and servant in waiting so far off These latter she concluded to belong to her father as she looked too young to have any sort of establishment of her own
What I dont understand in the matter is that there reading of letters by the light of the moon said Mr Dennel Wheres the necessity of doing that for a person that can afford to keep her own coach and servants
Mr Dennel was a man as unfavoured by nature as he was uncultivated by art He had been accepted as a husband by the sister of Mr Arlbery merely on account of a large fortune which he had acquired in business The marriage like most others made upon such terms was as little happy in its progression as honourable in its commencement and Miss Dennel born and educated amidst domestic dissention which robbed her of all will of her own by the constant denial of one parent to what was accorded by the other possessed too little reflexion to benefit by observing the misery of an alliance not mentally assorted and grew up with no other desire but to enter the state herself from an ardent impatience to shake off the slavery she experienced in singleness The recent death of her mother had given her indeed somewhat more liberty but she had not sufficient sense to endure any restraint and languished for the complete power which she imagined a house and servants of her own would afford
When they arrived at the hotel in Tunbridge Mrs Arlbery heard with some indignation that Sir Sedley Clarendel was gone to the rooms without demonstrating by any sort of inquiry the smallest solicitude at her nonappearance
CHAPTER II
The Pantiles
A servant tapt early at the door of Camilla the next morning to acquaint her that a lady who called herself the person that had been so much obliged to her the preceding day begged the honour of being admitted
Camilla was sorry after the suspicions of Mrs Arlbery that she did not send up her name yet already partially disposed her prepossession was not likely to be destroyed by the figure that now appeared
A beautiful young creature with an air of the most attractive softness eyes of the most expressive loveliness and a manner which by every look and every motion announced a soul tremblingly alive glided gently into the room and advancing with a graceful confidence of kindness took both her hands and pressing them to her heart said What happiness so soon to have found you to be able to pour forth all the gratitude I owe you and the esteem with which I am already inspired
Camilla was struck with admiration and pleasure and gave way to the most lively delight at the fortunate accident which occasioned her walking out in a place entirely unknown to her declaring she should ever look back to that event as to one of the marked blessings of her life
If you answered the fair stranger have the benevolence thus to value our meeting how should it be appreciated by one who is so eternally indebted to it I had not perceived the approach of that person He broke in upon me when least a creature so ungenial was present to my thoughts I was reading a letter from the most amiable of friends the most refined—perhaps—of human beings
Camilla impatient for some explanation answered I hope at least that friend will be spared hearing of your alarm
I hope so for his own griefs already overwhelm him Never may it be my sad lot to wound where I mean only to console
At the words his own Camilla felt herself blush She had imagined it was some female friend She now found her mistake and knew not what to imagine next
I had retired she continued from the glare of company and the weight of uninteresting conversation to read at leisure and in solitude this dear letter—heartbreaking from its own woes heartsoothing to mine In a place such as this seclusion is difficult I drove some miles off and ordered my carriage to wait in the high road while I strolled alone upon the common I delight in a solitary ramble by moonlight I can then indulge in uninterrupted rumination and solace my melancholy by pronouncing aloud such sentences and such names as in the world I cannot utter How exquisitely sweet do they sound to ears unaccustomed to such vibrations
Camilla was all astonishment and perplexity A male friend so beloved who seemed to be neither father brother nor husband a carriage at her command though without naming one relation to whom either that or herself might belong and sentiments so tender she was almost ashamed to listen to them all conspired to excite a wonder that painfully prayed for relief and in the hope to obtain it with some hesitation she said I should have sought you myself this morning for the pleasure of inquiring after your safety but that I was ignorant by what name to make my search
The fair unknown looked down for a moment with an air that shewed a perfect consciousness of the inquiry meant by this speech but turning aside the embarrassment it seemed to cause her she presently raised her head and said I had no difficulty to find you for my servant happily made his inquiry at once at this hotel
Disappointed and surprised by this evasion Camilla saw now an evident mystery but knew not how to press forward any investigation She began therefore to speak of other things and her fair guest who had every mark of an education rather sedulously than naturally cultivated joined readily in a conversation less personal
They did not speak of Tunbridge of public places nor diversions their themes all chosen by the stranger were friendship confidence and sensibility which she illustrated and enlivened by quotations from favourite poets aptly introduced and feelingly recited yet always uttered with a sigh and an air of tender melancholy Camilla was now in a state so depressed that notwithstanding her native vivacity she fell as imperceptibly into the plaintive style of her new acquaintance who seemed habitually pensive as if sympathy rather than accident had brought them together
Yet when chance led to some mention of the adventure of the preceding evening and the lady made again an animated eulogium of the friend whose letter she was perusing she hazarded with an half smile saying I hope—for his own sake this friend is some sage and aged personage
O no she answered he is in the bloom of youth
Camilla again a little disconcerted paused and the lady went on
It was in Wales I first met him upon a spot so beautiful that painting can never do it justice I have made however a little sketch of it which some day or other I will shew you if you will have the goodness to let me see more of you
Camilla could not refrain from an eager affirmative and the conversation was then interrupted by a message from Mrs Arlbery who always breakfasted in her own room to announce that she was going out lodginghunting
Camilla would rather have remained with her new acquaintance better adapted to her present turn of mind than Mrs Arlbery but this was impossible and the lovely stranger hastened away saying she would call herself the next morning to shew the way to her house where she hoped they might pass together many soothing and consolatory hours
Camilla found Mrs Arlbery by no means in her usual high spirits The opening of her Tunbridge campaign had so far from answered its trouble and expence that she heartily repented having quitted the Grove The Officers either were not arrived in the neighbourhood or were wholly engaged in military business Camilla instead of contributing to the life of the excursion seemed to hang heavily both upon that and upon herself and Sir Sedley Clarendel whose own proposition had brought it to bear had not yet made his appearance though lodging in the same hotel
Thus vexatiously disappointed she was illdisposed to listen with pleasure to the history Camilla thought it indispensable to relate of her recent visit and in answer to all praise of this fair Incognita only replied by asking her name and connexions Camilla felt extremely foolish in confessing she had not yet learnt them Mrs Arlbery then laughed unmercifully at her commendations but concluded with saying Follow however your own humour I hate to torment or be tormented only take care not to be seen with her
Camilla rejoiced she did not exact any further restriction and hoped all raillery would soon be set aside by an honourable explanation
They now repaired to the Pantiles where the gay company and gay shops afforded some amusement to Camilla and to Miss Dennel a wonder and delight that kept her mouth open and her head jerking from object to object so incessantly that she saw nothing distinctly from the eagerness of her fear lest anything should escape her
Mrs Arlbery meeting with an old acquaintance in the booksellers shop there sat down with him while the two young ladies loitered at the window of a toyshop struck with just admiration of the beauty and ingenuity of the Tunbridge ware it presented to their view till Camilla in a party of young men who were strolling down the Pantiles and who went into the booksellers shop distinguished the offender of the fair unknown
To avoid following or being recollected by a person so odious to her she entered the toyshop with Miss Dennel where she amused herself till Mrs Arlbery came in search of her in selecting such various little articles for purchase as she imagined would amount to about half a crown but which were put up for her at a guinea This a little disconcerted her though as she was still unusually rich from Mr Tyrolds having advanced her next quarterly allowance she consoled herself that they would serve for little keepsakes for her sisters and her cousin yet she determined when next she entered a shop for convenience to put nothing apart as a buyer till she had inquired its price
The assaulter Lord Newford a young nobleman of the ton after taking a staring survey of every thing and every body around and seeing no one of more consequence followed Mrs Arlbery with whom formerly he had been slightly acquainted to the toyshop He asked her how she did without touching his hat and how long she had been at Tunbridge without waiting for an answer and said he was happy to have the pleasure of seeing her without once looking at her
To his first sentence Mrs Arlbery made a civil answer but repenting it upon the two sentences that succeeded she heard them without seeming to listen and fixing her eyes upon him when he had done coolly said Pray have you seen any thing of my servant
Lord Newford somewhat surprised replied No
Do look for him then cried she negligently theres a good man
Lord Newford a little piqued and a little confused at feeling so said he should be proud to obey her and turning short off to his companion cried Come Offy why dost loiter where shall we ride this morning And taking him by the arm quitted the Pantiles
Mrs Arlbery laughing heartily now felt her spirits a little revive I doat she cried upon meeting now and then with insolence for I have a little taste for it myself which I make some conscience of not indulging unprovoked
They then proceeded to the milliners to equip themselves for going to the rooms at night Mrs Arlbery and Miss Dennel who were both rich gave large orders Camilla indifferent to every thing except to avoid appearing in a manner that might disgrace her party told the milliner to choose for her what she thought fashionable that was most reasonable She was soon fitted up with what was too pretty to disapprove and desiring immediately to pay her bill found it amounted to five guineas though she had imagined she should have change out of two
She had only six and some silver but was ashamed to dispute or desire any alteration she paid the money and only determined to apply to another person than the seller when next she wanted any thing reasonable
Mrs Arlbery now ordered the carriage and they drove to Mount Pleasant where she hired a house for the season to which they were to remove the next day
In the evening they went to the Rooms where the decidedly fashionable mien and manner of Mrs Arlbery attracted more general notice and admiration than the youthful captivation of Camilla or the pretty face and expensive attire of Miss Dennel
Dressed by the milliner of the day Camilla could not fail to pass uncensured at least with respect to her appearance but her eyes wanted their usual lustre from the sadness of her heart and she never looked less herself nor to less advantage
The master of the ceremonies brought to her Sir Theophilus Jarard but as she had seen him the companion of Lord Newford to whom she had conceived a strong aversion she declined dancing He looked surprised but rather offended than disappointed and with a little laugh half contemptuous as if ashamed of having offered himself stalked away
Sir Sedley Clarendel was now sauntering into the room Mrs Arlbery willing to shew her young friend in a favourable point of view to him though more from pique at his distance than from any thought at that moment of Camilla told her she must positively accept Sir Theophilus whose asking her must be regarded as a particular distinction for he was notoriously a man of the ton And heedless of her objections told Mr Dennel to call him back
How can I do that said Mr Dennel after seeing her refuse him with my own eyes
O nobody cares about a mans eyes said Mrs Arlbery go and tell him Miss Tyrold has changed her mind and chooses to dance
As to her changing her mind he answered thats likely enough but I dont see how its any reason I should go of a fools errand
Pho pho go directly or you shant dine before eight oclock for the whole Tunbridge season
Nay said Mr Dennel who had an horror of late hours if you will promise we shall dine more in reason—
Yes yes cried Mrs Arlbery hurrying him off notwithstanding the reiterated remonstrances of Camilla
See my dear she then added laughing how many weapons you must have in use if you would govern that strange animal called man yet never despair of victory for depend upon it there is not one of the race that with a little address you may not bring to your feet
Camilla who had no wish but for one single votary and whose heart was sunk from her failure in obtaining that one listened with so little interest or spirit that Mrs Arlbery quite provoked resolved not to throw away another idea upon her for the rest of the evening And therefore as her niece went completely and constantly for nothing with her she spoke no more till to her great relief she was joined by General Kinsale
Mr Dennel returned with an air not more pleased with his embassy than her own appeared with her auditress The gentleman he said had joined two others and they were all laughing so violently together that he could not find an opportunity to deliver his message for they seemed as if they would only make a joke of it
Mrs Arlbery then saw that he had got between Lord Newford and Sir Sedley and that they were all three amusing themselves without ceremony or disguise at the expense of every creature in the room up and down which they strolled arm in arm looking familiarly at every body but speaking to nobody whispering one another in hoarse low voices and then laughing immoderately loud while nothing was distinctly heard but from time to time What in the world is become of Mrs Berlinton tonight or else How stupid the Rooms are without Lady Alithea
Mrs Arlbery who like the rest of the world saw her own defects in as glaring colours and criticised them with as much animated ridicule as those of her neighbours when exhibited by others no sooner found she was neglected by this set than she raved against the prevailing ill manners of the leaders in the ton with as much asperity of censure as if never for a moment betrayed herself by fashion by caprice nor by vanity to similar foibles Yet after all cried she presently to see fools behave like fools I am well content I have no anger therefore against Lord Newford nor Sir Theophilus Jarard if they were not noticed for being impertinent how could they expect to be noticed at all When there is but one line that can bring them forward I rather respect them that they have found it out But what shall we say to Sir Sedley Clarendel A man as much their superior in capacity as in powers of pleasing Tis a miserable thing my dear General to see the dearth of character there is in the world Pope has bewailed it in women believe me he might have extended his lamentation You may see indeed one man grave and another gay but with no more mark or likelihood no more distinction of colouring than what simply belongs to a dismal face or a merry one and with just as little light and shade just as abrupt a skip from one to the other as separates inevitably the old man from the young one We are almost all my good General of a nature so pitifully plastic that we act from circumstances and are fashioned by situation
Then laughing at her own pique General she added shall I make you a confession I am not at all sure if that wretched Sir Sedley had behaved as he ought to have done and been at my feet all the evening that I should not at this very moment be amused in the same manner that he is himself yet it would be very abominable I own
This is candid however
O we all acknowledge our faults now tis the mode of the day but the acknowledgment passes for current payment and therefore we never amend them On the contrary they take but deeper root by losing all chance of concealment Yet I am vexed to see that odious Sir Sedley shew so silly a passion for being a man of the ton as to suffer himself to be led in a string by those two poor paltry creatures who are not more troublesome as fops than tiresome as fools merely because they are better known than himself upon the turf and at the clubs
Here she was joined by Lord OLerney and the honourable Mr Ormsby And in the next saunter of the tonnish triumvirs Lord Newford suddenly seeing with whom she was associated stopt and looking at her with an air of surprise exclaimed God bless me Mrs Arlbery I hope you are perfectly well
Infinitely indebted to your lordships solicitude she answered rather sarcastically But without noticing her manner he desired to be one in her teaparty which she was then rising to form
She accepted the offer with a glance of consciousness at the General who as he conducted her said I did not expect so much grace would so immediately have been accorded
Alas my dear General what can one do These tonnish people cordially as I despise them lead the world and if one has not a few of them in ones train twere as well turn hermit However mark how he will fare with me But dont judge from the opening
She now made his lordship so many gay compliments and mingled so much personal civility with the general entertainment of her discourse that as soon as they rose from tea he professed his intention of sitting by her for the rest of the evening
She immediately declared herself tired to death of the Rooms and calling upon Miss Dennel and Camilla abruptly made her exit
The General again her conductor asked how she could leave thus a conquest so newly made
I leave she answered only to secure it He will be piqued that I should go and that pique will keep me in his head till tomorrow Tis well my dear General to put any thing there But if I had stayed a moment longer my contempt might have broken forth into satire or my weariness into yawning and I should then inevitably have been cut by the ton party for the rest of the season
Miss Dennel who had been dancing and was again engaged to dance remonstrated against retiring so soon but Mrs Arlbery had a regular system never to listen to her Camilla whom nothing had diverted was content to retreat
At the door stood Sir Sedley Clarendel who as if now first perceiving them said to Mrs Arlbery Ah my fair friend—And how long have you been at the Wells
Intolerable wretch cried she taking him apart is it thus you keep your conditions did you draw me into bringing this poor lovesick thing with me only to sigh me into the vapours
My dear madam exclaimed he in a tone of expostulation who can think of the same scheme two days together Could you possibly form a notion of anything so patriarchal
Before they retired to their chambers at the hotel Camilla told Mrs Arlbery how shocking to her was the sight much more any acquaintance with Lord Newford who was the person that had so much terrified the lady she had met on their journey Mrs Arlbery assured her he should be exiled her society if upon investigation he was found the aggressor but while there appeared so much mystery in the complaint and the conduct of this unknown lady she should postpone his banishment
Camilla was obliged to submit but scarce rested till she saw again her new favourite the next morning
CHAPTER III
Mount Ephraim
This expected guest arrived early Camilla received her with the only sensation of pleasure she had experienced at Tunbridge Yet what she excited seemed still stronger the fair stranger besought her friendship as a solace to her existence, and hung upon her as upon a treasure long lost and dearly recovered Camilla soon caught the infection of her softness and felt a similar desire to cultivate her regard She found her beauty attractive her voice melodious and her manners bewitchingly caressing
Fearing nevertheless while yet in ignorance of her connexions to provoke further ridicule from Mrs Arlbery by going abroad with her she proposed deferring to return her visit till another day the lady consented and they spent together two hours which each thought had been but two minutes when Mrs Arlbery summoned Camilla to a walk
The fair unknown then took leave saying her servant was in waiting and Camilla and Mrs Arlbery went to the booksellers
Here that lady was soon joined by Lord OLerney and General Kinsale who were warm admirers of her vivacity and observations Mr Dennel took up the Daily Advertiser his daughter stationed herself at the door to see the walkers upon the Pantiles Sir Theophilus Jarard under colour of looking at a popular pamphlet was indulging in a nap in a corner Lord Newford noticing nothing except his own figure as he past a mirrour was shuffling loud about the floor which was not much embellished by the scraping of his boots and Sir Sedley Clarendel lounging upon a chair in the middle of the shop sat eating bon bons
Mrs Arlbery for some time confined her talents to general remarks but finding these failed to move a muscle in the face of Sir Sedley at whom they were directed she suddenly exclaimed Pray my Lord OLerney do you know any thing of Sir Sedley Clarendel
Not so much answered his Lordship as I could wish but I hope to improve my acquaintance with him
Why then my lord I am much afraid you will conclude when you see him in one of those reveries from the total vacancy of his air that he is thinking of nothing But pray permit me to take his part Those apparent cogitations to which he is so much addicted are moments only of pretended torpor but of real torment devoted not as they appear to supine insipidity but to painful secret labour how next he may call himself into notice Nevertheless my lord dont let what I have said hurt him in your opinion he is quaint to be sure but theres no harm in him He lives in my neighbourhood and I assure your lordship he is upon the whole what may be called a very good sort of man
Here she yawned violently and Sir Sedley unable to maintain his position twice crossed his legs and then arose and took up a book while Lord Newford burst into so loud a laugh that he awakened Sir Theophilus Jarard by echoing A good sort of man O poor Clary O hang it O curse it poor Clary
Whats the matter with Clary cried Sir Theophilus rubbing his eyes I have been boring myself with this pamphlet till I hardly know whether I am awake or asleep
Why hes a good sort of man replied Lord Newford
Sir Sedley though he expected and even hoped for some pointed strictures and could have defied even abuse could not stand this mortifying praise and asking for the subscription books which already he had twice examined said Is there any body here one knows
O ay have you any names cried Lord Newford seizing them first and with some right as they were the only books in the shop he ever read
Come Ill be generous said Mrs Arlbery and add another signature against your lordships next lecture
She then wrote her name and threw down halfaguinea Camilla to whom the book was next presented concluded this the established custom and from mere timidity did the same though somewhat disturbed to leave herself no more gold than she gave Miss Dennel followed but her father who said he did not come to Tunbridge to read which he could do at home positively refused to subscribe
Sir Theophilus now turning or rather tossing over the leaves cried I see no name here one knows any thing of but Lady Alithea Selmore
Why theres nobody else here said Lord Newford not a soul
Almost every body present bowed but wholly indifferent to reproof he again whistled again streamed up and down the room and again took a bold and full survey of himself in the lookingglass
On the contrary cried Sir Sedley I hear there is a most extraordinary fine creature lately arrived who is invincible to a degree
O thats Mrs Berlinton said Sir Theophilus yes shes a pretty little thing
Shes very beautiful indeed said Lord OLerney
Where can one see her cried Mrs Arlbery
If she is not at the Rooms tonight said Sir Sedley I shall be stupified to petrifaction They tell me she is a marvel of the first water turning all heads by her beauty winning all hearts by her sweetness fascinating all attention by her talents and setting all fashions by her elegance
This paragon cried Mrs Arlbery to Camilla can be no other than your mysterious fair The description just suits your own
But my fair mysterious said Camilla is of a disposition the most retired and seems so young I dont at all think her married
This divinity said Sir Sedley for the blessing of everyone yet
Lord of Himself uncumberd by a Wife1
is safely noosed and amongst her attributes are two others cruel to desperation she excited every hope by a sposo properly detestable—yet gives birth to despair by a coldness the most shivering
And what said Mrs Arlbery is this Lady Alithea Selmore
Lady Alithea Selmore drily but with a smile answered General Kinsale
Nay nay thats not to be mentioned irreverently returned Mrs Arlbery a title goes for a vast deal where there is nothing else and where there is something doubles its value
Mr Dennel saying he found by the newspaper a house was to be sold upon Mount Ephraim which promised to be a pretty good bargain proposed walking thither to examine what sort of condition it was in
Lord OLerney inquired if Camilla had yet seen Mount Ephraim No she answered and a general party was made for an airing Sir Sedley ordered his phaeton Mrs Arlbery drove Camilla in hers Miss Dennel walked with her father and the rest of the gentlemen went on horseback
Arrived at Mount Ephraim they all agreed to alight and enjoy the view and pure air of the hill while Mr Dennel visited the house But just as Mrs Arlbery had descended from the phaeton her horses taking fright at some object that suddenly struck them reared up in a manner alarming to the spectators and still more terrific to Camilla in whose hands Mrs Arlbery had left the reins and the servant who stood at the horses heads received a kick that laid him flat on the ground
O jump out jump out cried Miss Dennel or else youll be murdered
No no keep your seat and hold the reins cried Mrs Arlbery For heavens sake dont jump out
Camilla mentally giddy but personally courageous was sufficiently mistress of herself to obey the last injunction though with infinite labour difficulty and terror the horses plunging and flouncing incessantly
Dont you think shell be killed cried Lord Newford dismounting lest his own horse should also take fright Do you think one could help her said Sir Theophilus Jarard steadily holding the bridle of his mare from the same apprehension
Lord OLerney was already on foot to afford her assistance when the horses suddenly turning round gave to the beholders the dreadful menace of going down the steep declivity of Mount Ephraim full gallop
Camilla now appalled had no longer power to hold the reins she let them go with an idea of flinging herself out of the carriage when Sir Sedley who had darted like lightning from his phaeton presented himself at the horses heads on the moment of their turning and at the visible and imminent hazard of his life happily stopt them while she jumped to the ground They then with a fury that presently dashed the phaeton to pieces plunged down the hill
The fright of Camilla had not robbed her of her senses and the exertion and humanity of Sir Sedley seemed to restore to him the full possession of his own yet one of his knees was so much hurt that he sunk upon the grass
Penetrated with surprise as well as gratitude Camilla notwithstanding her own tremor was the first to make the most anxious inquiries secretly however sighing to herself Ah had Edgar thus rescued me yet struck equally with a sense of obligation and of danger from the horrible if not fatal mischief she had escaped and from the extraordinary hazard and kindness by which she had been saved she expressed her concern and acknowledgments with a softness that even Sir Sedley himself could not listen to unmoved
He received indeed from this adventure almost every species of pleasure of which his mind was capable His natural courage which he had nearly annihilated as well as forgotten by the effeminate part he was systematically playing seemed to rejoice in being again exercised his good nature was delighted by the essential service he had performed his vanity was gratified by the publicity of the praise it brought forth and his heart itself experienced something like an original feeling unspoilt by the apathy of satiety from the sensibility he had awakened in the young and lovely Camilla
The party immediately flocked around him and he was conveyed to a house belonging to Lord OLerney who resided upon Mount Ephraim and his lordships carriage was ordered to take him to his apartment at the hotel
Mrs Arlbery whose high spirits were totally subdued by the terror with which she had been seized at the danger of Camilla was so delighted by her rescue and the courage with which it was effected that all her spleen against Sir Sedley was changed into the warmest approbation When he was put into the coach she insisted upon seeing him safe to the hotel Camilla with her usual inartificial quickness seconding the motion and Lord OLerney a nobleman far more distinguished by benevolence and urbanity than by his rank taking the fourth place himself The servant who was considerably hurt he desired might remain at his house
In descending Mount Ephraim Camilla turned giddy with the view of what she had escaped and cast her eyes with doubled thankfulness upon Sir Sedley as her preserver Fragments of the phaeton were strewed upon the road one of the horses lay dead at the bottom of the hill and the other was so much injured as to be totally disabled for future service
When they came to the hotel they all alighted with the young baronet Camilla with as little thought as Mrs Arlbery with little care for doing any thing that was unusual They waited in an adjoining apartment till they were assured nothing of any consequence was the matter and Lord OLerney then carried them to their new lodging upon Mount Pleasant
Mrs Arlbery bore her own share in this accident with perfect goodhumour saying it would do her infinite good by making her a rigid œconomist for she could neither live without a phaeton nor yet build one and buy ponies but by parsimonious savings from all other expenses
At night they went again to the Rooms But Mrs Arlbery found in them as little amusement as Camilla Sir Sedley was not there either to attack or to flatter the celebrated Mrs Berlinton still appeared not to undergo a scrutiny and Lady Alithea Selmore sat at the upper end of the apartment attended by all the beaux except the General now at Tunbridge
This was not to be supported She arose and declaring she would take her tea with the invalid bid the General escort her to his room
In their way out she perceived the assembly books Recollecting she had not subscribed she entered her name but protested she could afford but halfaguinea upon her present new and avaricious plan
Camilla with much secret consternation concluded it impossible to give less and a few shillings were now all that remained in her purse Her uneasiness however presently passed away upon recollecting she should want no more money as she was now free of the rooms and of the library and equipped in attire for the whole time she should stay
Miss Dennel put down a guinea but her father telling her halfacrown would have done said for that reason he should himself pay nothing
Sir Sedley received them with the most unaffected pleasure forced upon solitude and by no means free from pain he had found no resource but in reading which of late had been his least occupation except the mere politics of the day Even reflection had discovered its way to him though a long banished guest which had quitted her post to make room for affectation vanity and every species of frivolity Reduced however to be reasonable even by this short confinement he now felt the obligation of their charitable visit and set his foppery and conceit apart from a desire to entertain them Camilla had not conceived he had the power of being so pleasantly natural and the strong feeling of gratitude in her ever warm heart made her contribute what she was able to the cheerfulness of the evening
Some time after General Kinsale was called out and presently returned with Major Cerwood just arrived from the regiment who with some apology to Sir Sedley hoped he might be pardoned for the liberty he took upon hearing who was at the hotel of preferring such society to the Rooms
As the Major had nothing in him either brilliant or offensive his sight after the first salutations was almost all of which the company was sensible
Camilla his sole object he could not approach she sat between the baronet and Mrs Arlbery and all her looks and all her attention were divided between them
Mrs Arlbery emerging from the mortifications of neglect which she had experienced almost for the first time in her life at the Rooms was unusually alive and entertaining Sir Sedley kept pace with her and the discourse was so whimsical that Camilla amused and willing to encourage a sensation so natural to her after a sadness till now for so long a time unremitting once more heard and welcomed the sound of her own laughter
It was instantly however and strangely checked a sigh so deep that it might rather be called a groan made its way through the wainscot of the next apartment
Much raillery followed the sight of her changed countenance the hotel was pronounced to be haunted and by a ghost reduced to that plight from her cruelty But the goodhumour and gaiety of the conversation soon brought her again to its tone and time passed with general hilarity till they observed that Miss Dennel who having no young female to talk with of her own views and affairs was thoroughly tired had fallen fast asleep upon her chair
Her father was already gone home to a hot supper which he had ordered in his own room and meant to eat before their return Mrs Arlbery to his great discomfort allowing nothing to appear at night but fruit or oysters
They now took leave Mrs Arlbery conducted by the General and Camilla by the Major while Miss Dennel unassisted and half asleep stumbled screamed and fell just before she reached the staircase
The General was first to aid her the Major not choosing to quit Camilla who looking round at a light which came from the room whence the sigh they had heard had issued perceived as it glared in her eyes it was held by Edgar
Astonishment pleasure hope and shame took alternate rapid possession of her mind but the last sensation was the first that visibly operated and she snatched her hand involuntarily from the Major
Mrs Arlbery exclaimed Bless me Mr Mandlebert are you the ghost we heard sighing in that room yonder
Mandlebert attempted to make some slight answer but his voice refused all sound
She went on then to the carriage of Mr Dennel followed by her young ladies and drove off for Mount Pleasant
CHAPTER IV
Knowle
The last words of Camilla to Mandlebert in quitting Cleves and the tears with which he saw her eyes overflowing had annihilated all his resentment and left him no wish but to serve her Her distinction between what was wisest and what was kindest had penetrated him to the quick To be thought capable of severity towards so sweet a young creature the daughter of his guardian his juvenile companion and earliest favourite made him detestable in his own eyes He languished to follow her to apologise for what had hurt her and to vow to her a fair and disinterested friendship for the rest of his life and he only forced himself from decency to stay out his promised week with the baronet before he set out for Tunbridge
Upon his arrival which was late he went immediately to the Rooms but he only saw her name in the books and learnt upon inquiring for Mrs Arlbery that she and her party were already retired
Glad to find her so sober in hours he went to the hotel meaning quietly to read till bedtime and to call upon her the next morning
In a few moments a voice struck his ear that effectually interrupted his studies It was the voice of Camilla Camilla at an hotel at past eleven oclock He knew she did not lodge there he had seen in the books the direction of Mrs Arlbery at Mount Pleasant Mrs Arlberys voice he also distinguished Sir Sedley Clarendels General Kinsales and least of all welcome the Majors
Perhaps however some lady some intimate friend of Mrs Arlbery was just arrived and had made them spend the evening there He rang for his man and bid him inquire who had taken the next room and learnt it was Sir Sedley Clarendel
To visit a young man at an hotel rich handsome and splendid and with a chaperon so far from past her prime so elegant so coquetish so alluring and still so pretty and to meet there a flashy Officer her open pursuer and avowed admirer—Tis true he had concluded Tunbridge and the Major were one but not thus not with such glaring impropriety his love he told himself was past but his esteem was still susceptible and now grievously wounded
To read was impossible To hold his watch in his hand and count the minutes she still stayed was all to which his faculties were equal No words distinctly reached him that the conversation was lively the tone of every voice announced but when that of Camilla struck him by its laughter the depth of his concern drew from him a sigh that was heard into the next apartment
Of this with infinite vexation he was himself aware from the sudden silence and pause of all discourse which ensued Ashamed both of what he felt and what he betrayed he grew more upon his guard and hoped it might never be known to whom the room belonged
When however as they were retiring a scream reached his ear though he knew it was not the voice of Camilla he could not command himself and rushed forth with a light but the lady who screamed was as little noticed as thought of the Major was holding the hand of Camilla and his eye could take in no more he saw not even that Mrs Arlbery was there and when roused by her question all voice was denied him for answer he stood motionless even after they had descended the stairs till the steps of the General and the Major retiring to their chambers brought to him some recollection and enabled him to retreat
Fully now as well as cruelly convinced of the unabated force of his unhappy passion he spent the night in extreme wretchedness and all that was not swallowed up in repining and regret was devoted to ruminate upon what possible means he could suggest to restore to himself the tranquillity of indifference
The confusion of Camilla persuaded him she thought she was acting wrong but whether from disapprobation of the character of the Major or from any pecuniary obstacles to their union he could not devise To assist the marriage according to his former plan would best he still believed sooth his internal sufferings if once he could fancy the Major at all worthy of such a wife But Camilla with all her inconsistencies he thought a treasure unequalled and to contribute to bestow her on a man who probably only prized her for her beauty he now persuaded himself would rather be culpable than generous
Upon the whole therefore he could resolve only upon a complete change of his last system to seek instead of avoiding her to familiarise himself with her faults till he ceased to doat upon her virtues to discover if her difficulties were mental or worldly to enforce them if the first and whatever it might cost him—to invalidate them if the last
This plan the only one he could form abated his misery It reconciled him to residing where Camilla resided it was easy to him therefore to conclude it the least objectionable
Camilla meanwhile in her way to Mount Pleasant spoke not a syllable Dismay that Edgar should have seen her so situated while in ignorance how it had happened made an uneasiness the most terrible combat the perplexed pleasure that lightened yet palpitated in her bosom from the view of Edgar at Tunbridge and from the sigh which had reached her ears Yet was it for her he sighed was it not rather from some secret inquietude in which she was wholly uninterested and might never know Still however he was at Tunbridge still therefore she might hope something relative to herself induced his coming and she determined with respect to her own behaviour to observe the injunctions of her father whose letter she would regularly read every morning
Mrs Arlbery also spoke not the unexpected sight of Mandlebert occupied all her thoughts yet though his confusion was suspicious she could not ultimately believe he loved Camilla as she could suggest no possible impediment to his proclaiming any regard he entertained His sigh she imagined as likely to be mere lassitude as love and supposed that having long discovered the partiality of Camilla his vanity had been confounded by the devoirs of the Major
Miss Dennel therefore was the only one whose voice was heard during the ride for now completely awaked she talked without cessation of the fright she had endured La I thought cried she when I tumbled down somebody threw me down on purpose and was going to kill me dear me I thought I should have died And then I thought it was a robber and then I thought that candle that come was a ghost O la I never was so frightened in my life
The next morning they went as usual to the Pantiles and Mrs Arlbery took her seat in the booksellers shop where the usual beaux were encountered and where presently Edgar entering addressed to her some discourse and made some general inquiries after the health of Camilla
It was a cruel drawback to her hopes to see him first thus in public but the manner of Mrs Arlbery at the hotel he had thought repulsive he had observed that she seemed offended with him since the rencounter at the breakfast given for Miss Dennel and he now wished for some encouragement for renewing his rights to the acquaintance
Sir Sedley though with the assistance of a stick he had reached the library was not sufficiently at his ease to again mount his horse a carriage expedition was therefore agitating for the morning and to see Knowle being fixed upon equipages and horses were ordered
While they waited their arrival Lady Alithea Selmore and a very shewy train of ladies and gentlemen came into the library Sir Sedley losing the easy natural manner which had just so much pleased Camilla resumed his affectation indolence and inattention and flung himself back in his chair without finishing a speech he had begun or listening to an inquiry why he stopt short His friends Lord Newford and Sir Theophilus Jarard shuffled up to her ladyship and Sir Sedley muttering to himself life would not be life without being introduced to her got up and seizing Lord Newford by the shoulder whispered what he called the height of his ambition and was presented without delay
He then entered into a little abrupt half articulated conversation with Lady Alithea who by a certain toss of the chin a short and half scornful laugh and a supercilious dropping of the eye gave to every sentence she uttered the air of a bon mot and after each as regularly stopt for some testimony of admiration as a favourite actress in some scene in which every speech is applauded What she said indeed had no other mark than what this manner gave to it for it was neither good nor bad wise nor foolish sprightly nor dull It was what if naturally spoken would have passed as it deserved without censure or praise This manner however prevailed not only upon her auditors but herself to believe that something of wit of finesse of peculiarity accompanied her every phrase Thought properly speaking there was none in any thing she pronounced her speeches were all replies which her admirers dignified by the name of repartees and which mechanically and regularly flowed from some word not idea that preceded
Mrs Arlbery having listened some time turned entirely away though with less contempt of her ladyship than of her hearers Her own auditors however except the faithful General had all deserted her Even the Major curious to attend to a lady of some celebrity had quitted the chair of Camilla and Edgar himself imagining from this universal devotion there was something well worth an audience had joined the group
We are terribly in the back ground General cried Mrs Arlbery in a low voice What must be done to save our reputations
The General laughing said he feared they were lost irretrievably but added that he preferred defeat with her to victory without her
Your gallantry my dear General cried she with a sudden air of glee shall be rewarded Follow me close and you shall see the fortune of the day reversed
Rising then she advanced softly and with an air of respect towards the party and fixing herself just opposite to Lady Alithea with looks of the most profound attention stood still as if in admiring expectation
Lady Alithea who had regarded this approach as an intrusion that strongly manifested ignorance of high life thought much better of it when she remarked the almost veneration of her air She deemed it however wholly beneath her to speak when thus attended to till observing the patient admiration with which even a single word seemed to be hoped for she began to pardon what appeared to be a mere tribute to her fame and upon Sir Theophilus Jarards saying I dont think we have had such a bore of a season as this these five years could not refuse herself the pleasure of replying I did not imagine Sir Theophilus you were already able to count by lustres
Her own air of complacency announced the happiness of this answer The company as usual took the hint and approbation was buzzed around her Lord Newford gave a loud laugh without the least conception why and Sir Theophilus after paying the same compliment wished as it concerned himself to know what had been said and glided to the other end of the shop to look for the word lustre in Enticks dictionary
But this triumph was even less than momentary Mrs Arlbery gently raising her shoulders with her head indulged herself in a smile that favoured yet more of pity than derision and with a hasty glance at the General that spoke an eagerness to compare notes with him hurried out of the shop her eyes dropt as if fearful to trust her countenance to an instants investigation
Lady Alithea felt herself blush The confusion was painful and unusual to her She drew her glove off and on she dabbed a highly scented pocket handkerchief repeatedly to her nose she wondered what it was oclock took her watch in her hand without recollecting to examine it and then wondered if it would rain though not a cloud was to be discerned in the sky
To see her thus completely disconcerted gave a weight to the mischievous malice of Mrs Arlbery of which the smallest presence of mind would have robbed it Her admirers one by one dwindled away with lessened esteem for her talents and finding herself presently alone in the shop with Sir Theophilus Jarard she said Pray Sir Theophilus do you know anything of that queer woman
The words queer woman were guides sufficient to Sir Theophilus who answered No I have seen her somewhere by accident but—she is quite out of our line
This reply was a sensible gratification to Lady Alithea who having heard her warmly admired by Lord OLerney had been the more susceptible to her ridicule Rudeness she could have despised without emotion but contempt had something in it of insolence a commodity she held herself born to dispense not receive
When Mrs Arlbery arrived laughing at the bottom of the Pantiles she found Edgar making inquiries of the time and manner of drinking the mineral water
Camilla heard him also and with deep apprehensions for his health He did not however look ill and a second sadness not less deep ensued that she could now retain no hope of being herself his inducement to this journey
But egotism was no part of her composition when she saw therefore the next minute Sir Sedley Clarendel advance limping and heard him ask if his phaeton were ready she approached him saying Will you venture Sir Sedley in your phaeton
Theres no sort of reason why not answered he sensibly flattered yet I had certainly rather go as you go
Then that said Mrs Arlbery must be in Dennels coach with him and my little niece here and then Ill drive the General in your phaeton
Agreed cried Sir Sedley seating himself on one of the forms and then taking from a paper some tickets added I want a few guineas
So do I exclaimed Mrs Arlbery do you know where such sort of things are to be met with
Lady Alithea Selmore has promised to disperse some twenty tickets for the master of the ceremonies ball and she commands me to help How many shall I give you
Ask Mr Dennel answered she negligently hes the only paymaster just now
Mr Dennel turned round and was going to walk away but Mrs Arlbery taking him by the arm said My good friend how many tickets shall Sir Sedley give you
Me—none at all
O fie every body goes to the master of the ceremonies ball Come you shall have six You cant possibly take less
Six What should I do with them
Why you and your daughter will use two and four you must give away
What for
Was ever such a question To do whats proper and right and handsome and gallant
O as to all that its what I dont understand Its out of my way
He would then have made off but Mrs Arlbery piqued to succeed held him fast and said Come if youll be good Ill be good too and you shall have a plain joint of meat at the bottom of the table every day for a fortnight
Mr Dennel softened a little here into something like a smile and drew two guineas from his purse but more there was no obtaining
Come cried Sir Sedley you have canvassed well so far Now for your fair self
You are a shocking creature cried she dont you know I am turned miser
Yet she gave her guinea
But the fair Tyrold does not also I trust assume that character
Camilla had felt very uneasy during this contest and now colouring said she did not mean to go to the ball
Can you ever expect then said Mrs Arlbery to have a partner at any other You dont know the rules of these places The master of the ceremonies is always a gentleman and every body is eager to shew him every possible respect
Camilla was now still more distressed and stammered out that she believed the fewer balls she went to the better her father would be pleased
Your father my dear is a very wise man and a very good man and a very excellent preacher but what does he know of Tunbridge Wells Certainly not so much as my dairy maid for she has heard John talk of them but as to your father depend upon it the sole knowledge he has ever obtained is from some treatise upon its mineral waters which very possibly he can analyse as well as a physician but for the regulation of a country dance be assured he will do much better to make you over to Sir Sedley or to me
Camilla laughed faintly and feeling in her pocket to take out her pocket handkerchief by way of something to do Mrs Arlbery concluded she was seeking her purse and suddenly putting her hand upon her arm to prevent her said No no if you dont wish to go or choose to go or approve of going I cannot in sober earnestness see you compelled Nothing is so detestable as forcing people to be amused Come now for Knowle
Sir Sedley was then putting up his tickets but the Major taking one of them out of his hand presented it to Camilla saying Let the ladies take their tickets now and settle with us afterwards
Camilla felt extremely provoked yet not knowing how to resist took the ticket but turning pointedly from the Major to Sir Sedley said I am your debtor then sir a guinea—the smallest part indeed of what I owe you though all I can pay And she then resolved to borrow that sum immediately of Mrs Arlbery
Sir Sedley began to think she grew handsomer every moment and contrary to his established and systematic inattention upon hearing the sound of the carriages conducted her himself to Mr Dennels coach which he ascended after her
Edgar unable to withstand joining the party had ordered his horse during the debate about the tickets
Lords OLerney and Newford and Sir Theophilus Jarard and Major Cerwood went also on horseback
Sir Sedley made it his study to procure amusement for Camilla during the ride and while he humoured alternately the loquacious folly of Miss Dennel and the underbred positiveness of her father intermingled with both comic sarcasms against himself and pointed annotations upon the times that somewhat diverted her solicitude and perplexity
She forgot them however more naturally in examining the noble antique mansion pictures and curiosities of Knowle and in paying the tribute that taste must ever pay to the works exhibited there of Sir Joshua Reynolds
The house viewed they all proceeded to the park where enchanted with the noble old trees which venerably adorn it they strolled delightedly till they came within sight of an elegant white form as far distant as their eyes could reach reading under an oak
Camilla instantly thought of her moonlight friend but Sir Theophilus called out Faith theres the divine Berlinton
Is there faith exclaimed Lord Newford suddenly rushing forward to satisfy himself if it were true
Deeming this an illbred and unauthorised intrusion they all stopt The studious fair profoundly absorbed by her book did not hear his lordships footsteps till his coat rustled in her ears Raising then her eyes she screamed dropt her book and darting up flew towards the wood with a velocity far exceeding his own though without seeming to know or consider whither her flight might lead her
Camilla certain now this was her new friend felt an indignation the most lively against Lord Newford and involuntarily sprung forward It was evident the fair fugitive had perceived none of the party but him she sought to avoid notwithstanding Lord Newford himself when convinced who it was ceased his pursuit and seemed almost to find out there was such a sensation as shame though by various antics of swinging his cane looking up in the air shaking his pocket handkerchief and sticking his arms akimbo he thought it essential to his credit to disguise it
Camilla had no chance to reach the flying beauty but by calling to her to stop which she did instantly at the sound of her voice and turning round with a look of rapture ran into her arms
The Major whose devoirs to Camilla always sought not avoided the public eye eagerly pursued her Edgar cruelly envying a licence he concluded to result from his happy situation looked on in silent amaze but listened with no small attention to the remarks that now fell from Mrs Arlbery who said she was sure this must be the fair Incognita that Miss Tyrold had met with upon the road and gave a lively relation of that adventure
He could not hear without delight the benevolent courage thus manifested by Camilla nor without terror the danger to which it might have exposed her But Lord OLerney with an air of extreme surprise exclaimed Is it possible Lord Newford could give any cause of alarm to Mrs Berlinton
Is she then my lord a woman of character cried Mrs Arlbery
Untainted he answered solemnly as spotless I believe as her beauty and if you have seen her you will allow that to be no small praise She comes from a most respectable family in Wales and has been married but a few months
Married my lord my fair female Quixote assured me she was single
No poor thing she was carried from the nursery to the altar and I fear not very judiciously nor happily
Dear cried Miss Dennel int she happy
I never presume to judge answered his lordship smiling but she has always something melancholy in her air
Pray how old is she said Miss Dennel
Eighteen
Dear and married—La I wonder what makes her unhappy
Not a husband certainly said Mrs Arlbery laughing that is against all chance and probability
Well Im resolved when Im married myself I wont be unhappy
And how will you help it
O because Im determined I wont I think its very hard if I maynt have my own way when Im married
Twill at least be very singular answered Mrs Arlbery
Camilla now returned to her party having first conducted her new friend towards a door in the park where her carriage was waiting
At length my dear said Mrs Arlbery your fair mysterious has I suppose avowed herself
I made no inquiry answered she painfully looking down
I can tell you who she is then myself said Miss Dennel she is Mrs Berlinton and shes come out of Wales and shes married and shes eighteen
Married repeated Camilla blushing from internal surprise at the conversations she had held with her
Yes your fair Incognita is neither more nor less said Mrs Arlbery than the honourable Mrs Berlinton wife to Lord Berlintons brother and next only to Lady Alithea Selmore the first toast and the reigning cry of the Wells for this season
Camilla who had seen and considered her in almost every other point of view heard this with less of pleasure than astonishment When a further investigation brought forth from Lord OLerney that her maiden name was Melmond Mrs Arlbery exclaimed O then I cease to play the idiot and wonder I know the Melmonds well They are all half crazy romantic lovelorn studious and sentimental One of them was in Hampshire this summer but so immensely melancholy and gentlemanlike2 that I never took him into my society
Twas the brother of this young lady I doubt not said Lord OLerney he is a young man of very good parts and of an exemplary character but strong in his feelings and wild in pursuit of whatever excites them
When will you introduce me to your new friend Miss Tyrold said Mrs Arlbery or rather turning to Lord Newford I hope your lordship will do me that honour I hear you are very kind to her and take much care to convince her of the ill effects and danger of the evening air
O hang it O curse it cried his lordship why does a woman walk by moonlight
Why rather should man said Lord OLerney impede so natural a recreation
The age of Lord OLerney which more than doubled that of Lord Newford made this question supported and even drew forth the condescension of an attempted exculpation I vow my lord he cried I had no intention but to look at a letter and that I thought she only read in public to excite curiosity
O but you knelt to her cried Miss Dennel you knelt to her I saw you and why did you do that when you knew she was married and you could not be her lover
The party being now disposed to return to the Wells Mrs Arlbery called upon the General to attend her to the phaeton Camilla impatient to pay Sir Sedley followed to speak to her but not aware of her wish Mrs Arlbery hurried laughingly on saying Come General let us be gone that the coach may be last and then Dennel must pay the fees That will be a good guinea towards my ponies
CHAPTER V
Mount Pleasant
The shame and distress natural to every unhackneyed mind in any necessity of soliciting a pecuniary favour had now in that of Camilla the additional difficulty of coping against the avowed desire of Mrs Arlbery not to open her purse
When they arrived at Mount Pleasant she saw all the horsemen alighted and in conversation with that lady and Edgar move towards the carriage palpably with a design to hand her out but as the Major advanced he retreated and finding himself unnoticed by Mrs Arlbery remounted his horse Provoked and chagrined she sprung forwards alone and when pursued by the Major with some of his usual compliments turned from him impatiently and went up stairs
Intent in thinking only of Edgar she was not herself aware of this abruptness till Mrs Arlbery following her to her chamber said Why were you so suddenly haughty to the Major my dear Miss Tyrold Has he offended you
Much surprised she answered no but forced by further questions to be more explicit confessed she wished to distance him as his behaviour had been remarked
Remarked how by whom
She coloured and was again hardly pressed before she answered Mr Mandlebert—once—named it to me
O ho did he said Mrs Arlbery surprised in her turn why then my dear depend upon it he loves you himself
Me—Mr Mandlebert— exclaimed Camilla doubting what she heard
Nay why not
Why not repeated she in an excess of perturbation O he is too good too excelling he sees all my faults—points them out himself—
Does he said Mrs Arlbery thoughtfully and pausing nay then—if so—he wishes to marry you
Me maam cried Camilla blushing high with mingled delight at the idea and displeasure at its free expression
Why else should he caution you against another
From goodness from kindness from generosity—
No no those are not the characteristics of young men who counsel young women We all heard he was engaged to your beautiful vacantlooking cousin but I suppose he grew sick of her A very young man seldom likes a silly wife It is generally when he is further advanced in life that he takes that depraved taste He then flatters himself a fool will be easier to govern
She now went away to dress leaving Camilla a new creature changed in all her hopes though overwhelmed with shame at the freedom of this attack and determined to exert her utmost strength of mind not to expose to view the secret pleasure with which it filled her
She was however so absent when they met again that Mrs Arlbery shaking her head said Ah my fair friend what have you been thinking of
Excessively ashamed she endeavoured to brighten up The General and Sir Sedley had been invited to dinner The latter was engaged in the evening to Lady Alithea Selmore who gave tea at her own lodgings The Rooms then will be quite empty said Mrs Arlbery so we had better go to the play
Mr Dennel had no objection and Sir Sedley promised to attend them as it would be time enough for her ladyship afterwards
So completely was Camilla absorbed in her new ideas, that she forgot both her borrowed guinea and the state of her purse till she arrived at the theatre The recollection was then too late and she had no resource against completely emptying it
She was too happy however at this instant to admit any regret The sagacity of Mrs Arlbery she thought infallible and the sight of Edgar in a box just facing her banished every other consideration
The theatre was almost without company The assembly at Lady Alithea Selmores had made it unfashionable and when the play was over Edgar found easily a place in the box
Lord Newford and Sir Theophilus Jarard looked in just after and affected not to know the piece was begun Sir Sedley retired to his toilette and Mr Dennel to seek his carriage
Some bills now got into the box and were read by Sir Theophilus announcing a superb exhibition of wild beasts for the next day consisting chiefly of monkies who could perform various feats and a famous ourang outang just landed from Africa
Lord Newford said he would go if he had but two more days to live Sir Theophilus echoed him Mr Dennel expressed some curiosity Miss Dennel though she protested she should be frightened out of her wits said she would not stay at home Mrs Arlbery confessed it would be an amusing sight to see so many representations of the dear human race but Camilla spoke not and scarce heard even the subject of discourse
You cried the Major addressing her will be there
Where demanded she
To see this curious collection of animals
It will be curious undoubtedly said Edgar pleased that she made no answer but tis a species of curiosity not likely to attract the most elegant spectators and rather perhaps adapted to give pleasure to naturalists than to young ladies
Softened at this moment in every feeling of her heart towards Edgar she turned to him and said Do you think it would be wrong to go
Wrong repeated he surprised though gratified is perhaps too hard a word but I fear at an itinerant show such as this a young lady would run some chance of finding herself in a neighbourhood that might seem rather strange to her
Most certainly then cried she with quickness I will not go
The astonished Edgar looked at her with earnestness and saw the simplicity of sincerity on her countenance He looked then at the Major who accustomed to frequent failures in his solicitations exhibited no change of features Again he looked at Camilla and her eyes met his with a sweetness of expression that passed straight to his heart
Mrs Arlbery now led the way to the coach the forwardness of the Major though in her own despight procured him the hand of Camilla but she had left upon Edgar an impression renovating to all his esteem She is still he thought the same candid open flexible still therefore let me follow her with such counsel as I am able to give She has accused me of unkindness—She was right I retreated from her service at the moment when in honour I was bound to continue in it How selfish was such conduct how like such common love as seeks only its own gratification not the happiness or welfare of its object! Could she though but lately so dear to me that all the felicity of my life seemed to hang upon her become as nothing because destined to another No Her father has been my father and so long as she retains his respected name I will watch by her unceasingly
In their way home one of the horses tired and could not be made to drag the carriage up to Mount Pleasant They were therefore obliged to alight and walk Mrs Arlbery took the arm of Mr Dennel which she did not spare and his daughter almost crying with sleep and fatigue made the same use of Camillas She protested she had never been so long upon her feet in her life as that very morning in Knowle Park and though she leant upon her companion with as little scruple as upon a walking stick she frequently stopt short and declared she should stay upon the road all night for she could not move another step and they were still far from the summit when she insisted upon sitting down saying fretfully I am sure I wish I was married Nobody minds me I am sure if I was I would not be served so Im resolved Ill always have two coaches one to come after me and one to ride in for Im determined I wont marry a man that has not a great fortune Im sure papa could afford it too if hed a mind only he wont Every body vexes me Im sure Im ready to cry
Mr Dennel and Mrs Arlbery who neither of them at any time took the smallest notice of what she said passed on and left the whole weight both of her person and her complaints to Camilla The latter however now reached the ears of a fat tidy neat looking elderly woman who in a large black bonnet and a blue checked apron was going their way she approached them and in a goodhumoured voice said What poor dear why you seem tired to death come get up my dear be of good heart and you shall hold by my arm for that tother poor things almost hauled to pieces
Miss Dennel accepted both the pity and the proposal and the substantial arm of her new friend gave her far superior aid to the slight one of Camilla
Well and how did you like the play my dears cried the woman
La said Miss Dennel how should you know we were at the play
O I have a little bird answered she sagaciously nodding that tells me everything you sat in the stage box
Dear so we did How can you tell that Was you in the gallery
No my dear nor yet in the pit neither And you had three gentlemen behind you besides that gentleman thats going up the Mount
Dear So we had But how do you know did you peep at us behind the scenes
No my dear I never went behind the scenes But come I hope youll do now for you hant much further to go
Dear how do you know that
Because you live at that pretty house there up Mount Pleasant thats got the little closet window
La yes who told you so
And theres a pretty cat belonging to the house all streaked brown and black
O la exclaimed Miss Dennel half screaming and letting go her arm I dare say youre a fortuneteller Pray dont speak to me till we get to the light
She now hung back so terrified that neither Camilla could encourage nor the woman appease her and she was going to run down the hill forgetting all her weariness to seek refuge from the servants when the woman said Why whats here to do Why see my dear if I must let you into the secret—you must know—but dont tell it to the world—Im a gentlewoman She then removed her checked apron and shewed a white muslin one embroidered and flounced
Miss Dennel was now struck with a surprise of which Camilla bore an equal share Their new acquaintance appeared herself in some confusion but having exacted a promise not to be discovered to the world she told them she lodged at a house upon Mount Pleasant just by theirs whence she often saw them that having a ticket given her by a friend for the play she dressed herself and went into a box with some very genteel company who kept their coach and who sat her down afterwards at another friends where she pretended she should be fetched But I do my own way continued she and nobody knows a word of the matter for I keep a large bonnet and cloak and a checked apron and a pair of clogs or pattens always at this friends and then when I have put them on people take me for a mere common person and I walk on ever so late and nobody speaks to me and so by that means I get my pleasure and save my money and yet always appear like a gentlewoman when Im known
She then again charged them to be discreet saying that if this were spread to the world she should be quite undone for many ladies that took her about with them would notice her no more At the same time as she wished to make acquaintance with such pretty young ladies she proposed that they should all three meet in a walk before the house the next morning and talk together as if for the first time
Camilla who detested all tricks declined entering into this engagement but Miss Dennel charmed with the ingenuity of her new acquaintance accepted the appointment
Camilla had however her own new friend for the opening of the next day Ah my sweet protectress cried she throwing her arms about her neck what am I not destined to owe you The very sight of that man is horror to me Amiable generous creature what a sight was yours when turning round I met your eyes and beheld him no more
Your alarm at which I cannot wonder said Camilla prevented your seeing your safety for Lord Newford was with a large party
O he is obnoxious to my view wherever I may see him in public or in private I shall fly him He would have torn from me the loved characters of my hearts best correspondent—
Camilla now felt a little shocked and colouring and interrupting her said Is it possible Mrs Berlinton— and stopt not knowing how to go on
Ah you know me then You know my connexions and my situation cried she hiding her face on Camillas bosom tell me at least tell me you do not therefore contemn and abhor me
Heaven forbid said Camilla terrified at such a preparation what can I hear that can give you so cruel an idea
Alas know you not I have prophaned at the altar my plighted vows to the most odious of men That I have formed an alliance I despise and that I bear a name I think of with disgust and hate ever to own
Camilla thunderstruck answered No indeed I know nothing of all this
Ah guard yourself then well cried she bursting into tears from a similar fate My friends are kind and good but the temptation of seeing me rich beguiled them I was disinterested and contented myself but young and inexperienced and I yielded to their pleadings unaware of their consequences Alas I was utterly ignorant both of myself and the world I knew not how essential to my own peace was an amiable companion and I knew not then—that the world contained one just formed to make me happy
She now hung down her head weeping and desponding Camilla sought to sooth her but was so amazed so fearful and so perplext she scarce knew what either to say or to think
The fair mourner at length a little recovering added Let me not agitate your gentle bosom with my sorrows I regard you as an angel sent to console them but it must be by mitigating not partaking of them
Camilla was sensibly touched and though strangely at a loss what to judge felt her affections deeply interested
I dreaded she continued to tell you my name for I dreaded to sink myself into your contempt by your knowledge of an alliance you must deem so mercenary Twas folly to hope you would not hear it yet I wished first to obtain at least your good will The dear lost name of Melmond is all I love to pronounce That name I believe is known to you so may be also perhaps my brothers unhappy story
Melmond she then said believing Miss Lynmere betrothed to Mr Mandlebert had quitted Hampshire in misery to finish his vacation in Wales with their mutual friends There he heard that the rumour was false and would instantly have returned and thrown himself at the feet of the young lady by whose cousin Mr Lionel Tyrold he had been told she was to inherit a large fortune when this second report also was contradicted and he learnt that Miss Lynmere had almost nothing My brother added she with the true spirit of true sentiment was but the more urgent to pursue her but our relations interfered—and he like me is doomed to endless anguish
The accident she said of the preceding morning was owing to her being engaged in reading Rowes letters from the dead to the living which had so infinitely enchanted her that desiring to peruse them without interruption yet fearing to again wander in search of a rural retreat she had driven to Knowle where hearing the noble family was absent she had asked leave to view the park and there had taken out her delicious book which she was enjoying in the highest luxury of solitude and sweet air when Lord Newford broke in upon her
Camilla enquired if she feared any bad consequences by telling Mr Berlinton of his impertinence
Heaven forbid she answered that I should be condemned to speak to Mr Berlinton of anything that concerns or befalls me I see him as little as I am able and speak to him as seldom
Camilla heard this with grief but durst not further press a subject so delicate They continued together till noon and then reluctantly parted upon a message from Mrs Arlbery that the carriages were waiting Mrs Berlinton declined being introduced to that lady which would only she said occasion interruptions to their future têteàtêtes
Neither the thoughtlessness of the disposition nor the gaiety of the imagination of Camilla could disguise from her understanding the glaring eccentricity of this conduct and character but she saw them with more of interest than blame the various attractions with which they were mixed blending in her opinion something between pity and admiration more captivating though more dangerous to the fond fancy of youth than the most solid respect and best founded esteem
CHAPTER VI
The accomplished Monkies
When Camilla descended she found Sir Sedley Clarendel and General Kinsale in attendance and saw from the parlour window Miss Dennel sauntering before the house with the newly made acquaintance of the preceding evening
The Baronet who was to drive Mrs Arlbery enquired if Camilla would not prefer also an open carriage Mrs Arlbery seconded the motion Miss Dennel then running to her father exclaimed Pray papa lets take this lady Ive been talking with in the coach with us Shes the goodnaturedest creature I ever knew
Who is she whats her name
O I dont know that papa but Ill go and ask her
Flying then back Pray maam she cried whats your name because papa wants to know
Why my dear my names Mittin So you may think of me when you put on your gloves
Papa her names Mittin cried Miss Dennel scampering again to her father
Well and who is she
O la Im sure I cant tell only shes a gentlewoman
And how do you know that
She told me so herself
And where does she live
Just by papa at that house you see there
O well if shes a neighbour thats enough Ive no more to say
O then Ill ask her cried Miss Dennel jumping dear Im so glad twould have been so dull only papa and I Im resolved when Ive a house of my own Ill never go alone any where with papa
This being muttered the invitation was made and accepted and the parties set forward
The ride was perfectly pleasing to Camilla now revived and cheerful Sir Sedley was free from airs Mrs Arlbery drew them into conversation with one another, and none of them were glad when Mr Dennel called stop or youll drive too far
Camilla who supposing she was going as usual to the Pantiles had got into the phaeton without inquiry and who finding afterwards her mistake concluded they were merely taking an airing now observed she was advancing towards a crowd and presently perceived a booth and an immense sign hung out from it exhibiting a man monkey or ourang outang
Though excessively fluttered she courageously and at once told Mrs Arlbery she begged to be excused proceeding
Mrs Arlbery who had heard at the play the general objections of Mandlebert though she had not attended to her answer conjectured her reason for retreating and laughed but said she would not oppose her
Camilla then begged to wait in Mr Dennels carriage that she might keep no one else from the show Sir Sedley saying it would be an excruciatingly vulgar sight proposed they should all return but she pleaded strongly against breaking up the party though while she was handed out to go back to the coach the Dennels and Mrs Mittin had alighted and it had driven off
The chagrin of Camilla was so palpable that Mrs Arlbery herself agreed to resign the scheme and Sir Sedley who drew up to them said he should rejoice in being delivered from it but Miss Dennel who was waiting without the booth for her aunt was ready to cry at the thought of losing the sight which Mrs Mittin had assured her was extremely pretty and after some discussion Camilla was reduced to beg she might do no mischief and consent to make one
A more immediate distress now occurred to her she heard Mr Dennel call out to the man stationed at the entrance of the booth Whats to pay and recollected she had no money left
What your Honor pleases was the answer but gentlefolks gives halfacrown
Im sure its well worth it said Mrs Mittin for its one of the most curious things you ever saw You cant give less sir And she passed nimbly by without paying at all but added I had a ticket the first day and now I come every day for nothing if it dont rain for one only need to pay at first
Mr Dennel and his daughter followed and Camilla was beginning a hesitating speech to Mrs Arlbery as that lady not attending to her said to Mr Dennel Well frank me also but take care what you pay Im not at all sure I shall ever return it All I save goes to my ponies And handed by the General she crossed the barrier not hearing the voice of her young friend which was timidly beseeching her to stop
Camilla was now in extreme confusion She put her hand into her pocket took it out felt again and again brought forth the hand empty
The Major who was before her and who watched her begged leave to settle with the boothkeeper but Camilla to whom he grew daily more irksome again preferred a short obligation to the Baronet and blushingly asked if he would once more be her banker
Sir Sedley by no means suspecting the necessity that urged this condescension was surprised and delighted and almost without knowing it himself became all that was attentive obliging and pleasing
Before they were seated the young Ensign Mr Macdersey issuing from a group of gentlemen addressed himself to Camilla though with an air that spoke him much discomposed and out of spirits I hope you are well Miss Camilla Tyrold he cried and have left all your family well particularly the loveliest of your sex that angel of beauty the divine Miss Lynmere
Except the company present said Mrs Arlbery always except the company present when you talk of beauty to women
I would not except even the company absent replied he with warmth but was interrupted from proceeding by what the master of the booth called his Consort of Musics in which not less than twenty monkies contributed their part one dreadfully scraping a bow across the strings of a vile kit another beating a drum another with a fife a fourth with a bagpipe and the sixteen remainder striking together tongs shovels and pokers by way of marrowbones and cleavers Every body stopt their ears though no one could forbear laughing at their various contortions and horrible grimaces till the master of the booth to keep them he said in tune dealt about such fierce blows with a stick that they set up a general howling which he called the Wocal part of his Consort not more stunning to the ear than offensive to all humanity The audience applauded by loud shouts but Mrs Arlbery disgusted rose to quit the booth Camilla eagerly started up to second the motion but her eyes still more expeditiously turned from the door upon encountering those of Edgar who having met the empty coach of Mr Dennel had not been able to refrain from inquiring where its company had been deposited nor upon hearing it was at the accomplished Monkies from hastening to the spot to satisfy himself if or not Camilla had been steady to her declaration But he witnessed at once the propriety of his advice and its failure
The master of the booth could not endure to see the departure of the most brilliant part of his spectators and made an harangue promising the company at large if they would submit to postponing the Consort in order to oblige his friends the Quality they should have it with the newest squalls in taste afterwards
The people laughed and clapped and Mrs Arlbery sat down
In a few minutes the performers were ready for a new exhibition They were dressed up as soldiers who headed by a corporal came forward to do their exercises
Mrs Arlbery laughing told the General as he was upon duty he should himself take the command the General a pleasant yet cool and sensible man did not laugh less but the Ensign more warm tempered and wrong headed seeing a feather in a monkeys cap of the same colour by chance as in his own fired with hasty indignation and rising called out to the master of the booth What do you mean by this sir do you mean to put an affront upon our corps
The man startled was going most humbly to protest his innocence of any such design but the laugh raised against the Ensign amongst the audience gave him more courage and he only simpered without speaking
What do you mean by grinning at me sir said Macdersey do you want me to cane you
Cane me cried the man enraged by what rights
Macdersey easily put off all guard was stepping over the benches with his cane uplifted when his next neighbour tightly holding him said in a half whisper If youll take my advice youd a deal better provoke him to strike the first blow
Macdersey far more irritated by this counsel than by the original offence fiercely looked back calling out The first blow What do you mean by that sir
No offence sir answered the person who was no other than the slow and solemn Mr Dubster but only to give you a hint for your own good for if you strike first being in his own house as one may say he may take the law of you
The law repeated the fiery Ensign the law was made for poltroons a man of honour does not know what it means
If you talk at that rate sir said Dubster in a low voice it may bring you into trouble
And who are you sir that take upon you the presumption to give me your opinion
Who am I sir I am a gentleman if you must needs know
A gentleman who made you so
Who made me so why leaving off business what would you have make me so you may tell me if you are any better if you come to that
Macdersey of an ancient and respectable family incensed past measure was turning back upon Mr Dubster when the General taking him gently by the hand begged he would recollect himself
Thats very true sir very true General cried he profoundly bowing what you say is very true I have no right to put myself into a passion before my superior officer unless he puts me into it himself in which case tis his own fault So I beg your pardon General with all my heart And Ill go out of the booth without another half syllable But if ever I detect any of those monkies mocking us and wearing our feathers when you ant by I shant put up with it so mildly I hope youll excuse me General
He then bowed to him again and begged pardon of all the ladies but in quitting the booth contemptuously said to Mr Dubster As to you you little dirty fellow you ant worth my notice
Little dirty fellow repeated Mr Dubster when he was gone How come you to think of that why Im as clean as hands can make me
Come sir come said Mrs Mittin reaching over to him and stroking his arm dont be angry these things will happen sometimes in public companies but gentlemen should be above minding them He meant no harm I dare say
O as to that maam answered Mr Dubster proudly I dont much care if he did or not its no odds to me Only I dont know much what right he has to defame me I wonder who he thinks he is that he may break the peace for nothing I cant say Im much a friend to such behaviour Treating people with so little ceremony
I protest cried Sir Sedley to Camilla tis your favourite swain from the Northwick assembly wafted on some zephyr of Hope he has pursued you to Tunbridge I flatter myself he has brought his last bran new cloaths to claim your fair hand at the master of the ceremonies ball
Hush hush cried Camilla in a low voice he will take you literally should he hear you
Mr Dubster now perceiving her bowed low from the place where he stood and called out How do you do maam I ask pardon for not speaking to you before but I cant say as I see you
Camilla was forced to bow though she made no answer But he continued with his usual steadiness Why that was but a unked morning we was together so long maam in my new summerhouse We was in fine jeopardy thats the truth of it Pray how does the young gentleman do as took away our ladder
What a delectable acquaintance cried Sir Sedley would you have the cruelty to keep such a treasure to yourself present me I supplicate
O I know you well enough sir said Mr Dubster who overheard him I see you at the hop at the White Hart and I believe you know me pretty well too sir if I may take account by your staring Not that I mind it in the least
Come come dont be touchy said Mrs Mittin cant you be goodnatured and hold your tongue what signifies taking things amiss It only breeds ill words
Thats very sensibly observed upon said Mr Dennel I dont know when Ive heard any thing more sensibly said
O as to that I dont take it amiss in the least cried Mr Dubster if the gentlemans a mind to stare let him stare Only I should like to know what its for Its no better than childs play as one may say making one look foolish for nothing
The ourang outang was now announced and Mrs Arlbery immediately left the booth accompanied by her party and speedily followed by Edgar
Neither of the carriages were in waiting but they would not return to the booth Sir Sedley to whom standing was still rather inconvenient begged a cast in the carriage of a friend who was accidentally passing by
Macdersey who joined them said he had been considering what that fellow had proposed to him of taking the first blow and found he could not put up with it and upon the appearance of Mr Dubster who in quitting the booth was preparing with his usual leisurely solemnity to approach Camilla darted forward and seizing him by the collar exclaimed Retract sir Retract
Mr Dubster stared at first without speech or opposition but being released by the Major whom the General begged to interfere he angrily said Pray sir what business have you to take hold of a body in such a manner as that Its an assault sir and so I can prove And Im glad of it for now I can serve you as I did another gentleman once before that I smarted out of a good ten pound out of his pocket for a knock he gave me for a mere nothing just like this here pulling one by the collar nobody knows why
The Major endeavouring to quiet Macdersey advised him to despise so low a person
So I will my dear friend he returned as soon as ever I have given him the proper chastisement for his ignorance But I must do that first You wont take it ill Major
I believe cried Mr Dubster holding up both his hands the like of this was never heard of Heres a gentleman as he calls himself ready to take away my life with his own good will for nothing but giving him a little bit of advice However its all one to me The law is open to all And if any one plays their tricks upon me they shall pay for their fun Im none of your tame ones to put up with such a thing for nothing Im above that I promise you
Dont talk sir dont talk cried Macdersey its a thing I cant bear from a mean person to be talked to I had a hundred thousand times rather stand to be shot at
Not talk sir I should be glad to know what right you has to hinder me provided I say nothing against the law And as to being a mean person its more than you can prove for Im sure you dont know who I am nor nothing about me I may be a lord for any thing you know though I dont pretend to say I am But as to what people take me for that behave so out of character its what I shant trouble my head about They may take me for a chimneysweeper or they may take me for a duke which they like I shant tell them whether Im one or tother or whether Im neither And as to not talking I shall hold my tongue when I think proper
Ask my pardon this instant fellow cried the Ensign whom the Major at the motion of the General now caught by the arm and hurried from the spot Mrs Mittin at the same moment pulling away Mr Dubster and notably expounding to him the advantages of patience and good humour
Mrs Arlbery wearied both of this squabble and of waiting took the arm of the General and said she would walk home Miss Dennel lovingly held by Mrs Mittin with whom her father also assorted and by whom Mr Dubster was drawn on
Camilla alone had no immediate companion as the Major was occupied by the Ensign Edgar saw her disengaged He trembled he wavered he wished the Major back he wished him still more at a distance too remote ever to return he thought he would instantly mount his horse and gallop towards Beech Park but the horse was not ready and Camilla was in sight—and in less than a minute he found himself scarce knowing how at her side
Camilla felt a pleasure that bounded to her heart though the late assertions of Mrs Arlbery prepared her to expect him He knew not however what to say he felt mortified and disappointed and when he had uttered something scarce intelligible about the weather he walked on in silence
Camilla whose present train of thoughts had no discordant tendency broke through this strangeness herself and said How frivolous I must appear to you but indeed I was at the very door of the booth before I knew whither the party was going
You did not I hope at least he cried when you had entered it deem me too rigid too austere that I thought the species, both of company and of entertainment ill calculated for a young lady
Rigid austere repeated she I never thought you either never—and if once again— she stopt embarrassed ashamed
If once again what cried he in a tremulous voice what would Miss Camilla say—would she again—Is there yet—What would Miss Camilla say—
Camilla felt confounded both with ideas of what he meant to allude to and what construction he had put upon her half finished sentence Impatient however to clear that If once more she cried you could prevail with yourself—now and then—from time to time—to give me an hint an idea—of what you think right—I will promise if not a constant observance at least a neverfailing sense of your kindness
The revulsion in the heart in the whole frame of Edgar was almost too powerful for restraint he panted for an immediate explanation of every past and every present difficulty and a final avowal that she was either selfdestined to the Major or that he had no rival to fear But before he could make any answer a sudden and violent shower broke up the conference and grouped the whole party under a large tree
This interruption however had no power upon their thoughts neither of them heard a word that was saying each ruminated intently though confusedly upon what already was passed Yet where the wind precipitated the rain Edgar stationed himself and held his hat to intercept its passage to Camilla and as her eye involuntarily was caught by the shower that pattered upon his head and shoulders she insensibly pressed nearer to the trunk of the tree to afford more shelter to him from its branches
The rest of the party partook not of this taciturnity Mr Dubster staring Mrs Mittin full in the face exclaimed I think I ought to know you maam asking your pardon
No matter for that cried she turning with quickness to Camilla Lord miss—I dont know your name—how your poor hat is all I dont know how as limp and as flimzy as if it had been in a washtub
Ive just bethought me continued he where it was we used to see one another, and all the whole manner of it Ive got it as clear in my head as if it was but yesterday Dont you remember—
Cant you stand a little out there interrupted she what signifies a mans old coat dont you see how you let all the rain come upon this young lady you should never think of yourself but only of what you can do to be obliging
A very good rule that a very good one indeed said Mr Dennel I wish everybody would mind it
Im as willing to mind it I believe said Mr Dubster as my neighbours but as to being wet through for mere complaisance I dont think it fair to expect such a thing of nobody Besides this is not such an old coat as you may think for If you was to see what I wear at home I promise you would not think so bad of it I dont say its my best whod be fool then to wear it every day However I believe its pretty nigh as good as that I had on that night I saw you at Mrs Purdles when you know one of your pattens—
Come come whats the man talking about one person should not take all the conversation up so Dear miss do tell me your name I am so sorry for your hat I cant but think of it it looks as dingy
Why now you wont make me believe said Mr Dubster youve forgot how your patten broke and how I squeezed my finger under the iron And how Id like to have lost the use of it There would have been a fine job And how Mrs Purdle
Im sure the showers over cried Mrs Mittin and if we stay here we shall have all the droppings of the leaves upon us Poor miss thingomes hat is spoilt already Theres no need to make it worse
And how Mrs Purdle he continued was obliged to lend you a pair of shoes and stockings because you was wet through your feet And how they would not fit you and kept tumbling off And how when somebody come to fetch you in their own coach you made us say you was taken ill because you was so daubed with mud and mire you was ashamed to shew yourself And how
I cant think what you are talking of said Mrs Mittin but come lets you and I go a little way on to see if the rains over She then went some paces from the tree and said What signifies running on so Mr Dubster about things nobody knows anything of Its tiring all the company to death You should never talk about your own fingers and haphazards to genteel people You should only talk about agreeable subjects as I do See how they all like me That gentleman brought me to the monkies in his own coach
As to that answered he gravely I did not mean in the least to say anything disagreeable only I thought it odd you should not seem to know me again considering Mrs Purdle used——
Why youve no nous Mr Dubster Mrs Purdles a very good sort of woman and the best friend I have in the world perhaps at the bottom but she int a sort of person to talk of before gentlefolks You should talk to great people about their own affairs and what you can do to please them and find out how you can serve them if youd be treated genteelly by them as I am Why I go every where and see every thing and it costs me nothing A friend a lady of great fashion took me one day to the monkies and paid for me and Ive gone since whenever I will for nothing
Nobody treats me to nothing answered he in a melancholy voice whatevers the reason except when I make friends with somebody that can let me in free sometimes And I get a peep now and then at what goes forward that way
But you are rich enough to pay for yourself now Mr Dubster good lack if I had such a fortune as yours Id go all the world over and thanks to nobody
And how long would you be rich then Mrs Mittin Whod give you your money again when youd spent it I got mine hard enough I shant fool it away in a hurry I promise you
I cant say I see that Mr Dubster when two of your wives died so soon and left you so handsome
Why yes I dont say to the contrary of that but then think of the time before when I was prentice—
The shower was now over and the party proceeded as before
Edgar uncertain irresolute walked on in silence yet attentive assiduous even tenderly watchful to guide guard and assist his fair companion in her way The name of the Major trembled perpetually upon his lips but fear what might be the result of his inquiries stopt his speech till they approached the house when he commanded voice to say You permit then the renewal of my old privilege—
Permit I wish for it
They were now at the door Edgar not daring to speak again to Camilla and not able to address any one else took his leave enchanted that he was authorized once more to inform himself with openness of the state of her affairs and of her conduct And Camilla dwelling with delight upon the discernment of Mrs Arlbery blest the happy penetration that had endowed her with courage to speak again to Edgar in terms of friendship and confidence
Mrs Mittin declaring she could not eat till she had seen what could be done for the hat of Miss Tyrold accompanied her upstairs took it off herself wiped it smoothed and tried to new arrange it and at last failing to succeed insisted upon taking it home to put it in order and promised to return it in the morning time enough for the Pantiles Camilla was much ashamed but she had no means to buy another and she had now lost her indifference to going abroad She thought therefore this new acquaintance at least as useful as she was officious and accepted her civility with thanks
CHAPTER VII
The Rooms
The evening as usual was destined to the Rooms The first object Camilla perceived upon her entrance was Edgar and the smile with which she met his eye brought him instantly to her side That smile was not less radiant for his nearer approach nor was his pleasure in it less animated for observing that Major Cerwood was not of her party nor as yet in the room The opportunity seemed inviting to engage her himself to suggest and to find it irresistible was the same thing and he inquired if her whole evening were arranged or she would go down two dances with an old friend
The softness of her assent was even exquisite delight to him and as they all walked up and down the apartment though he addressed her but little and though she spoke but in answer every word he uttered she received as couching some gentle meaning and every syllable she replied he thought conveyed something of flattering interest and although all was upon open and unavoidable subjects he had no eyes but for her she had no attention but for him
This quiet yet heartfelt intercourse was soon a little interrupted by the appearance of a large and striking party led on by Lady Alithea Selmore for which every body made way to which every body turned and which passing by all the company without seeming conscious there was any to pass formed a mass at the upper end of the room with an air and manner of such exclusive attention to their chief or to one another, that common observation would have concluded some film before their eyes obstructed their discerning that they were not the sole engrossers of the apartment
But such was not the judgment formed of them by Mrs Arlbery who forced by the stream to give them passage paid herself for the condescension by a commentary upon the passengers Those good people said she strive to make us believe we are nothing to them They strive even to believe it themselves But this is the mere semblance worn by pride and affectation to veil internal fatigue They come hither to recruit their exhausted powers not indeed by joining in our society but by a view of new objects for their senses and the flattering idea for their minds of the envy or admiration they excite They are all people of some consequence and many of them are people of title but these are far the most supportable of the group their privileged superiority over the rest is so marked and indisputable that they are saved the trouble either of claiming or ascertaining it but those who approach their rank without reaching it live in a constant struggle to make known their importance Indeed I have often seen that people of title are less gratified with the sound of their own honours than people of no title in pronouncing them
Sir Sedley Clarendel was of this set Like the rest he passed Mrs Arlbery without seeming to notice her and was passing Camilla in the same manner but not aware this was only to be fine like the party to which he belonged she very innocently spoke to him herself to hope he got safe to his lodgings without feeling any further ill effect from his accident
Sir Sedley though internally much gratified by this interest in his safety which in Camilla was the result of having herself endangered it looked as if he scarce recollected her and making hastily a kind of half bow walked on with his company
Camilla who had no view nor one serious thought concerning him was rather amused than displeased by his caprices and was preparing to relate the history of his lameness to Edgar who seemed surprised and even hurt by her addressing him and by his so slightly passing her when the entrance of another splendid party interrupted all discourse
And here to her utter amaze she beheld as chief of the group her romantic new friend not leading indeed like Lady Alithea Selmore a train but surrounded by admirers who seeking no eye but hers seemed dim and humble planets moving round a radiant sun
Camilla now forgetting Sir Sedley would have taken this moment to narrate her adventure with Mrs Berlinton had not her design been defeated by the approach of the Major He belonged to this last group but was the only one that separated from it He spoke to Camilla with his usual air of devotion told her he had dined with Mrs Berlinton to whose husband whom he had taken for her grandfather he had been just introduced and begged to know of Mrs Arlbery if he might have the pleasure of bringing them all acquainted an offer which Camilla unauthorised by Mrs Berlinton had not ventured to make Mrs Arlbery declined the proposal not anxious to mix where she had small chance of presiding
The party after traversing the room took full and exclusive possession of a considerable spot just below that occupied by Lady Alithea
These two companies completely engrossed all attention amply supplying the rest of the assembly with topics for discourse The set with Lady Alithea Selmore was in general haughty supercilious and taciturn looking around with eyes determined to see neither any person nor any thing before them and rarely speaking except to applaud what fell from her ladyship who far less proud because a lover of popularity deigned herself from time to time a slight glance at the company to see if she was observed and to enjoy its reverence
The party to which Mrs Berlinton was the loadstone was far more attractive to the disciples of nature, though less sedulously sought by those whom the manners and maxims of the common world had sophisticated They were gay elegant desirous to please because pleased themselves and though some of them harboured designs deeper and more dangerous than any formed by the votaries of rank they appeared to have nothing more in view than to decorate with flowers the present moment The magnetic influence of beauty was however more powerful than that of the ton for though Mrs Berlinton from time to time allured a beau from Lady Alithea Selmore her ladyship during the whole season had not one retaliation to boast But on the other hand the females in general strove to cluster about Lady Alithea Mrs Berlinton leaving them no greater chance of rivalship in conversation than in charms
Edgar had made way upon the approach of the Major who wore an air of superior claim extremely unpleasant to him but since already engaged to Camilla he meant to return to her when the dancing began
She concluded he left her but to speak to some acquaintance and was herself amply occupied in observing her new friend The light in which she now beheld her admired pursued and adulated elegantly adorned in her person and evidently with but one rival for fame and fashion in Tunbridge filled her with astonishment Nothing could less assort with her passion for solitude her fondness for literary and sentimental discussions and her enthusiasm in friendship But her surprise was mixed with praise and admiration when she reflected upon the soft humility and caressing sweetness of her manners yet found her by general consent holding this elevated rank in society
The Major earnestly pressed to conduct Camilla to this coterie assuring her Mrs Berlinton would not have passed had she seen her for during dinner and at coffee she had talked of nobody else Camilla heard this with pleasure but shrunk from all advances and strove rather to hide than shew herself that Mrs Berlinton might have full liberty either to seek or avoid her She wished to consult Edgar upon this acquaintance though the present splendour of her appearance and the number of her followers made her fear she could never induce him to do justice to the sweetness and endearment of her social powers
When the Major found he pleaded in vain he said he would at least let Mrs Berlinton know where to look for her and went himself to that lady
Edgar who had felt sensibly mortified to observe when he retreated that the eyes and attention of Camilla had been wholly bestowed upon what he considered merely as a new scene was now coming forward when he saw Mrs Berlinton hastily rise suddenly break from all her adulators and with quick steps and animated gestures traverse the apartment to address Camilla whom taking by both her hands which she pressed to her heart she conjured in the most flattering terms to accompany her back
Camilla was much gratified yet from delicacy to Mrs Arlbery stimulated by the fear of missing her expected partner in the country dances declined the invitation Mrs Berlinton looked disappointed but said she would not be importunate and returned alone
Camilla a little disturbed besought the Major to follow with an offer of spending with her if she pleased the whole of the ensuing day
Charming cried the Major for I am engaged to her myself already
To Camilla this hearing was distressing to Edgar it was scarcely endurable But she could not retract and Edgar was stopt in the inquiries he meant to make concerning this striking new acquaintance by an abrupt declaration from Mrs Arlbery that the Rooms were insufferable and she would immediately go home She then gave her hand to the General and Miss Dennel took the arm of Camilla murmuring that she would never leave the Rooms at such an early hour again when once she was married
To quit Edgar thus at the very moment of renewed intercourse and amity seemed too cruel and Camilla though with blushes and stammering whispered Mrs Arlbery What can I do maam most unfortunately I have engaged myself to dance
With whom
With—Mr—Mandlebert
O vastly well Stay then by all means but as he has not engaged me too allow me I beseech you to escape Mrs Berlinton will I am sure be happy to take care of you
This scheme was to Camilla the most pleasant that could be proposed and at the same instant the Major returned to her with these words written with a pencil upon the back of a letter
Tomorrow and next day and next day come to me my lovely friend every thing and every body fatigues me but yourself
Camilla obliged again to have recourse to the Major wrote upon the same paper Can you have the goodness to convey me to Mount Pleasant tonight if I stay and begged him to bring her an answer She entreated also Mrs Arlbery to stop till it arrived which was almost in the same minute for the eye of Mrs Berlinton had but glanced upon the words ere her soft and lovely form was again with their fair writer with whom smiling and delighted she walked back arm in arm to her place
Mrs Arlbery and the General and Mr and Miss Dennel now left the room
Edgar viewed all this with amazement He found that the young lady she joined was sisterinlaw to a peer and as fashionable as she was beautiful but could not fathom how so great an intimacy had so suddenly been formed
Camilla thus distinguished became now herself an object of peculiar notice her own personal claim to particular attention her dejection had forfeited for it had robbed her eyes of their animation and her countenance of its play but no contagion spreads with greater certainty nor greater speed than that of fashion slander itself is not more sure of promulgation She was now looked at by all present as if seen for the first time every one discovered in her some charm some grace some excellence those who the minute before had passed her with perfect indifference said it was impossible to see and not be struck with her and all agreed she could appear upon no spot under the sun and not instinctively be singled out as formed to shine in the highest sphere
But he by whom this transaction was observed with most pleasure was Sir Sedley Clarendel The extraordinary service he had performed for Camilla and the grateful interest she had shewn him in return had led him to consider her with an attention so favourable that without half her merit or half her beauty she could not have failed rising in his estimation and exciting his regard and she had now a superior charm that distanced every other she had been asked to dance yet refused it by a man of celebrity in the ton and she was publicly sought and caressed by the only rival at Tunbridge in that species of renown to Lady Alithea Selmore
He felt an increased desire to be presented to Mrs Berlinton himself and gliding from his own circle as quietly as he could contrive not to offend Lady Alithea who though she laughed at the little Welsh rustic was watchful of her votaries and jealous of her rising power came gently behind Lord OLerney and whispered his request
He was received by the young beauty with that grace and that sweetness which rendered her so generally bewitching yet with an air that proved her already accustomed to admiration and untouched by its intoxicating qualities All that was voluntary of her attention was bestowed exclusively upon Camilla though when addressed and called upon by others she answered without impatience and looked without displeasure
This conduct at the same time that it shewed her in a point of view the most amiable raised Camilla higher and higher in the eyes of the bystanders and in a few minutes more the general cry throughout the assembly was to inquire who was the young lady thus brought forward by Mrs Berlinton
Edgar heard this with increased anxiety Has she discretion has she fortitude thought he to withstand public distinction Will it not spoil her for private life estrange her from family concerns render tasteless and insipid the conjugal and maternal characters meant by Nature to form not only the most sacred of duties but the most delicious of enjoyments
Very soon after this anxiety was tinctured with a feeling more severe he saw her spoken to negligently by Sir Sedley he required after what he had already himself deemed impertinence from the Baronet that she should have assumed to him a distant dignity but he perceived on the contrary that she answered him with pleasant alacrity and when not engaged by Mrs Berlinton attended to him even with distinction
Alas thought he the degradation from the true female character is already begun already the lure of fashion draws her from what she owes to delicacy and propriety to give a willing reception to insolence and foppery
Camilla meanwhile unsuspicious of his remarks and persuaded every civility in her power was due to Sir Sedley was gay pleased and pleasing happy to consider herself under the guidance and restored to the amity of Edgar and determined to acquaint him with all her affairs and consult him upon all her proceedings
The dancing for which mutually they languished as the mutual means of reunion seemed not to be the humour of the evening and those who were ready for it were not of sufficient consequence to bring it forward But when Mrs Berlinton mentioned that she had been taking some lessons in a cotillon a universal cry was raised by all her party to try one immediately She pleaded in vain her inexperience in such dances they insisted there was nobody present that could criticise that her form alone would compensate for every mistake of rule and that the best lesson was easy practice
She was soon gained for she was not addicted to denials but the application which ensued to Camilla was acceded to less promptly As there were but two other ladies in the circle of Mrs Berlinton her assistance was declared to be indispensable She pleaded inability of every sort though to dance without Edgar was her only real objection for she had no false shame in being ignorant of what she never had learnt But Mrs Berlinton protested she would not rise if she were the only novice to be exhibited and the Major then prepared to prostrate himself at the feet of Camilla who hastily and ashamed stood up to prevent an action that Edgar might misinterpret
Hoping however now to at least draw him into their set she ventured to acknowledge to Mrs Berlinton that she was already engaged in case she danced
The Major who heard her and who knew it was not to himself strenuously declared this could only be for country dances and therefore would not interfere with a cotillon
Will country dances then said she blushing follow
Certainly if any one has spirit to begin them
The cotillon was now played and the preceding bow from the opposite Major forced her courtsie in return
The little skill in this dance of one of the performers and the total want of it in another made it a mere pleasantry to all though the youth and beauty of the two who did the worst rendered them objects of admiration that left nearly unnoticed those who did best
To Camilla what belonged to pleasantry in this business was of short duration When the cotillon was over she saw nothing of Edgar She looked around mortified disappointed No one called for a country dance and the few who had wished for it concluding all chance over when a cotillon was begun had now retired or given it up
What was this disappointment compared with the sufferings of Edgar Something of a contest and of entreaties had reached his ears while he had hovered near the party or strolled up and down the room He had gathered the subject was dancing and he saw the Major most earnest with Camilla He was sure it was for her hand and concluded it was for a country dance but could she forfeit her engagement were matters so far advanced as to make her so openly shew him all prevailing all powerful not only over all rivals but according to the worlds established customs upon these occasions over all decorum
Presently he saw the Major half kneel he saw her rise to prevent the prostration and he heard the dance called
He could bear no more pain intolerable seized distracted him and he abruptly quitted the ballroom lest the Major should approach him with some happy apology which he was unfitted to receive
He could only settle his ideas by supposing she really loved Major Cerwood and had suffered her character to be infected by the indelicacy that made a part of his own Yet why had she so striven to deny all regard all connection what an unaccountable want of frankness what a miserable dereliction of truth
His first impulse was to set off instantly from Tunbridge but his second thoughts represented the confession this would make He was too proud to leave the Major whom he despised such a triumph and too much hurt to permit Camilla herself to know him so poignantly wounded She could not indeed but be struck by his retreat he resolved however to try to meet with her the next day and to speak to her with the amity they had so lately arranged yet in a way that should manifest him wholly free from all other interest or view
CHAPTER VIII
Ways to the Heart
All pleasure to Camilla was completely over from the moment that Edgar disappeared
When she returned to Mount Pleasant Mrs Arlbery whom she found alone said Did I not understand that you were going to dance with Mr Mandlebert How chanced he to leave you We were kept ages waiting for the coach and I saw him pass by and walk off
Camilla colouring related the history of the cotillon and said she feared not knowing how she had been circumstanced he was displeased
Displeased cried Mrs Arlbery laughing and do you at seventeen suffer a man to be displeased How can you do worse when you are fifty Know your own power more truly and use it better Men my dear are all spoilt by humility and all conquered by gaiety Amuse and defy them—attend to that maxim and you will have the world at your feet
I have no such ambition but I should be sensibly hurt to make an old friend think ill of me
When an old friend said Mrs Arlbery archly happens to be a young man you must conduct yourself with him a little like what you are that is a young woman And a young woman is never in her proper place if such sort of old friends are not taught to know their own From the instant you permit them to think of being offended they become your masters and you will find it vastly more convenient to make them your slaves
Camilla pretended to understand this in a mere general sense and wished her good night
The next morning at an early hour her chamber door was opened with great suddenness and no preparation and Mrs Mittin tript nimbly into the room with a hat in her hand
Look here my dear Miss Tyrold cried she for now that other young lady has told me your name and I writ it down upon paper that I might not forget it again look at your hat now Did you ever see anything so much improved for the better I declare nobody would know it Miss Dennel says its as pretty again as it was at first Ill go and shew it to the other lady
Away she went triumphant with the trophy of her notability but presently returned saying Do pray Miss Tyrold write me down that other ladys name upon a scrap of paper It always goes out of my head And one looks as if one knew nobody when one forgets peoples names
Camilla complied and expressed her shame to have caused her so much trouble
O my dear its none at all I got all the things at Mrs Tilldens
Who is Mrs Tillden cried Camilla staring
Why the milliner Dont you know that
What things asked Camilla alarmed
Why these my dear dont you see Why its all new except just the hat itself, and the feathers
Camilla was now in extreme embarrassment She had concluded Mrs Mittin had only newly arranged the ornaments and had not the smallest idea of incurring a debt which she had no means to discharge
It all comes to quite a trifle continued Mrs Mittin for all its so pretty Mrs Tilldens things are all monstrous cheap I get things for next to nothing from her sometimes when they are a little past the mode. But then I recommend her a heap of customers I get all my friends by hook or by crook to go to her shop
And what stammered out Camilla besides my thanks do I owe you
Oh nothing She would not be paid she said as you was her customer and had all your things of her at first shed put it down in your bill for the season
This was at least some respite though Camilla felt the disagreeable necessity of increasing her intended demand upon Mrs Arlbery
Miss Dennel came with a summons from that lady to the Pantiles whither as the day was fine she proposed they should walk
O cried Mrs Mittin if you are going upon the Pantiles you must go to that shop where theres the curious earrings that are be to raffled for Youll put in to be sure
Camilla said no with a sigh attributed to the earrings but due to a tender recollection of the raffle in which Edgar had procured her the trinket she most valued Mrs Mittin proposed accompanying them and asked Camilla to introduce her to Mrs Arlbery This was very disagreeable but she knew not how after the civility she owed her to refuse
Mrs Arlbery received her with much surprize but perfect unconcern conscious of her own importance she feared no disgrace from being seen with one in a lower station and she conceived it no honour to appear with one in a higher
When they came to the Pantiles Mrs Mittin begged to introduce them to a view of the earrings which belonged she said to one of her particular friends and as Mrs Arlbery caught the eye of Sir Sedley Clarendel in passing the window she entered the shop
Well cried Mrs Mittin to its master dont say I bring you no company I am sure you ought to let me throw for nothing if its only for good luck for I am sure these three ladies will all put in Come Miss Dennel do lead the way Tis but half a guinea and only look what a prize
Ask papa to pay for me cried Miss Dennel
Come good sir come put down the half guinea for the young lady Im sure you cant refuse her Lord whats half a guinea
Thats a very bad way of reasoning,' answered Mr Dennel and what I did not expect from a woman of your sense
Why you dont think sir I meant that half a guineas a trifle No indeed I know what money is better than that I only mean half a guinea is nothing in comparison to ten guineas which is the price of the earrings and so that makes me think its pity the young lady should lose an opportunity of getting them so cheap Im sure if they were dear I should be the last to recommend them for I think extravagance the greatest sin under the sun
Well now you speak like the sensible woman I took you for
A very little more eloquence of this sort was necessary before Mr Dennel put down half a guinea
Well I declare cried Mrs Mittin theres only three more names wanted and when these two ladies have put in there will be only one Im sure if I was rich enough that one would not be far off But come maam wheres your half guinea Come Miss Tyrold dont hold back who knows but you may win theres only nineteen against you Lord whats that
Camilla turned away and Mrs Arlbery did not listen to a word but when Sir Sedley said They are really very pretty wont you throw she answered I must rather make a raffle with my own trinkets than raffle for other peoples Think of my ponies However Ill put in if Mr Dennel will be my paymaster
Mr Dennel turning short off walked out of the shop
This is a bad omen cried she laughing and then desired to look at the list of rafflers when seeing amongst the names those of Lady Alithea Selmore and the Hon Mrs Berlinton she exclaimed Tis a coalition of all fashion and reputation We shall be absolutely scouted my dear Miss Tyrold if we shrink My poor ponies must wait half a guinea longer Let us put in together
Camilla answered she had no intention to try for them
Well then lend me half a guinea for I never trust myself now with my purse
I have not a half guinea I have I have no gold in my purse answered Camilla with a face deeply tinged with red
Major Cerwood who joined the party during this discussion intreated to be banker for both the ladies Camilla positively refused any share but Mrs Mittin said it would be a shame for such a young lady to go without her chance and wrote down her name next to that of Mrs Arlbery while the Major without further question put down a guinea upon the counter
Camilla could not endure this yet from a youthful shame of confessing poverty forced herself to the ear of Mrs Arlbery and whispered an entreaty that she would pay the guinea herself
Mrs Arlbery surprized answered she had really come out without her purse but seeing her seriously vexed added If you do not approve of the Major for a banker till we go home what say you to Sir Sedley
I shall prefer him a thousand times
Mrs Arlbery in a low voice repeated this to the young Baronet and receiving his guinea threw it down making the Major without the smallest excuse or ceremony take back his own
This was by no means lost upon Sir Sedley he felt flattered he felt softened he thought Camilla looked unusually lovely he began to wonder at the coldness of Mandlebert and to lament that the first affections of so fair a creature should be cast away
Mandlebert himself was an object of nothing less than envy He had entered the shop during the contest about the raffle and seen Major Cerwood pay for Camilla as well as for Mrs Arlbery Confirmed in his notions of her positive engagement and sick at heart from the confirmation he walked further into the shop upon pretence of looking at some other articles before he could assume sufficient composure to speak to her
Mrs Mittin now began woefully to repine that she could not take the last share for the earrings and addressing herself to Mr Dennel who reentered as soon as he saw the money was paid for Mrs Arlbery she said You see sir if there was somebody ready to take the last chance at once this gentleman might fix a day for the throwing immediately but else it may be dawdled on nobody knows how long for one will be gone and tother will be gone and therell be no getting the people together and all the pleasure of the thing is being here to throw for ones self for I dont much like trusting money matters out of sight
If Id thought of all that said Mr Dennel I should not have put in
True sir But here if it was not that I dont happen to have half a guinea to spare just now how nicely it might all be finished in a trice For as I have been saying to Miss Dennel this may turn out a real bargain for theyll fetch their full value at any time And I tell Miss Dennel thats the only way to lay out money upon things that will bring it back again if its wanted not upon frippery froppery thats spoilt in a minute and then int worth a farthing
Very sensibly said cried Mr Dennel Im sure she cant hear better advice Im much obliged to you for putting such sensible thoughts into her head And then hoping she would continue her good lessons to his daughter he drew out his purse and begged her to accept a chance from it for the prize
Mrs Mittin was in raptures and the following week was settled for the raffle
Mrs Arlbery who had attended to this scene with much amusement now said to General Kinsale who had taken a seat by her Did I not tell you well General that all men are at the disposition of women If even the shrewd monied man cannot resist what heart shall we find impenetrable The connoisseur in human characters knows that the pursuit of wealth is the petrifaction of tenderness yet yonder is my good brotherinlaw who thinks cash and existence one allured even to squander money merely by the address of that woman in allowing that money should be the first study of life Let even Clarendel have a care of himself or when least he suspects any danger some fair dairymaid will praise his horsemanship or take a fancy to his favourite spaniel or any other favourite that happens to be the foible of the day and his invulnerability will be at her feet and Lady Clarendel be brought forward in a fortnight
Lord OLerney now entered the shop accompanying a lady whose countenance and appearance were singularly pleasing and who having made some purchase was quietly retiring when the master of the shop inquired if she wished to look at the earrings adding that though the number was full he knew of one person who would give up her chance in case it would oblige a customer
She answered she had no present occasion for earrings and would not therefore take up either his time or her own unnecessarily and then walked gently away still attended by Lord OLerney
Bless me cried Mrs Arlbery who is that to hear a little plain common sense is so rare it strikes one more than wit
Its Lady Isabella Irby madam answered the master of the shop
Here Lord OLerney who had only handed her to her carriage returned
My Lord cried Mrs Arlbery do you know what a curiosity you brought in amongst us just now A woman of rank who looks round upon other people just as if she thought they were her fellow creatures
Fie fie answered Lord OLerney laughing why will you suppose that so rare If we have not as many women who are amiable with titles as without it is only because we have not the same number from which to select them They are spoilt or unspoilt but in the same proportion as the rest of their sex Their fall or their escape is less local than you imagine it does not depend upon their titles but upon their understandings
Well my lord I believe you are right I was adopting a narrow prejudice merely from indolence of thought
But why my lord cried Sir Sedley does this paragon of a divinity deny her example to the world Is it in contempt of our incorrigibility or in horror of our contagion
My dear Sir Sedley said Mrs Arlbery dont flatter yourself with being so dangerous Her ladyship does not fly you from fear take my word for it There is nothing in her air that looks as if she could only be good by being shut up I dare believe she could meet you every day yet be mistress of herself Nevertheless why my lord is she such a recluse Why does one never see her at the Rooms
Never see her there my dear madam she is there almost every night only being unintruding she is unnoticed
The satire then my lord said Mrs Arlbery falls upon the company Why is she not surrounded by volunteer admirers Why with a person and manner so formed to charm joined to such a character and such rank has she not her train
The reason my dear madam you could define with more sagacity than myself she must be sought And the world is so lazy that the most easy of access however valueless is preferred to the most perfect who must be pursued with any trouble
Admirable Lord OLerney thought Edgar what a lesson is this to youthful females against the glare of public homage the false brilliancy of unfeminine popularity
This conversation however which alone of any he had heard at Tunbridge promised him any pleasure was interrupted by Mr Dennel who said the dinner would be spoilt if they did not all go home
Camilla felt extremely vexed to quit the shop without clearing up the history of the dance and Edgar seeing the persevering Major at her side as she departed in urgency to put any species of period to his own sufferings followed the party and precipitately began a discourse with Lord OLerney upon making the tour of Europe Camilla for whom it was designed intent upon planning her own defence heard nothing that was said till Lord OLerney asked him if his route would be through Switzerland and he answered My route is not quite fixed my lord
Startled she now listened and Mrs Arlbery whom she held by the arm was equally surprised and looked to see how she bore this intimation
If you will walk with me to my lodgings replied Lord OLerney I will shew you my own route which may perhaps save you some difficulties Shall you set out soon
I fancy within a month answered Edgar and arm in arm they walked away together as Camilla and her party quitted the Pantiles for Mount Pleasant
CHAPTER IX
Counsels for Conquest
Fortunately for Camilla no eye was upon her at this period but that of Mrs Arlbery her changed countenance else must have betrayed still more widely her emotion Mrs Arlbery saw it with real concern and saying she had something to consult her about hurried on with her alone
Camilla scarce knew that she did or what she suffered the suddenness of surprise which involved so severe a disappointment almost stupified her faculties Mrs Arlbery did not utter one word by the way and when they arrived at home saw her to her chamber pressed her hand and left her
She now from a sense of shame came to her full recollection She was convinced all her feelings were understood by Mrs Arlbery she thought over what her father had said upon such exposures and hopeless of any honorable end to her suspences earnestly wished herself back at Etherington to hide in his revered breast her confusion and grief
Even Mrs Arlbery she now believed had been mistaken Edgar appeared never to have loved her his attentions his kindness had all flowed from friendship his solicitude his counsel had been the result of family regard
When called to dinner she descended with downcast eyes She found no company invited she felt thankful yet abashed and Mrs Arlbery let her retire when the meal was over but soon followed to beg she would prepare for the play
She saw her hastily putting away her handkerchief and dispersing her tears Ah my dear cried she taking her hand I am afraid this old friend of yours does not much contribute to make Tunbridge Wells salubrious to you
Camilla affecting not to understand her said she had never been in better health
Of mind do you mean or body cried Mrs Arlbery laughing but seeing she only redoubled her distress more seriously added Will you suffer me my dear Miss Tyrold to play the old friend also and speak to you with openness
Camilla durst not say no though she feared to say yes
I must content myself with a tacit compliance if I can obtain no other I am really uneasy to talk with you not believe me from officiousness nor impertinence but from a persuasion I may be able to promote your happiness You wont speak I see And you judge perfectly right for the less you disclaim the less I shall torment you Permit me therefore to take for granted that you are already aware I am acquainted with the state of your heart
Camilla trembling had now no wish but to fly she fastened her eyes upon the door and every thought was devoted to find the means of escape
Nay nay if you look frightened in sober sadness I am gone But shall I think less or know less for saying nothing It is not speech my dear Miss Tyrold that makes detections It only proclaims them
A sigh was all the answer of Camilla though assured thus she had nothing to gain by flight she forced herself to stay
We understand one another, I see perfectly Let me now then as unaffectedly go on as if the grand explanation had been verbally made That your fancy my fair young friend has hit upon a tormentor I will not deny yet not upon an ingrate for this person little as you seem conscious of your power certainly loves you
Surprised off all sort of guard Camilla exclaimed O no—O no
Mrs Arlbery smiled but went on Yes my dear he undoubtedly does you that little justice yet if you are not well advised his passion will be unavailing and your artlessness your facility and your innocence with his knowledge nay his very admiration of them will operate but to separate you
Glowing with opposing yet strong emotions at these words the countenance of Camilla asked an explanation in defiance of her earnest desire to look indifferent or angry
You will wonder and very naturally how such attractions should work as repulses but I will be plain and clear and you must be candid and rational and forgive me These attractions my dear will be the source of this mischief because he sees by their means that you are undoubtedly at his command
No madam no Mrs Arlbery cried Camilla in whose pride now every other feeling was concentrated he does not cannot see it—
I would not hurt you for the world my very amiable young friend but pardon me if I say that not to see it—he must be blinder than I imagine him—blinder than to tell you the truth I am much inclined to think any of his race
Confounded irritated and wounded Camilla remained a moment silent and then though scarce articulately answered If such is your opinion at least he shall see it fancy it I mean no more
Keep to that resolution and you will behold him where he ought to be at your feet
Irresistibly though most unwillingly appeased by this unexpected conclusion she turned away to hide a blush in which anger had not solely a place and suffered Mrs Arlbery to go on
There is but one single method to make a man of his ruminating class know his own mind give him cause to fear he will lose you Animate inspirit inspire him with doubt
But why maam cried Camilla in a faltering voice why shall you suppose I will take any method at all
The apprehension you will take none is the very motive that urges me to speak to you You are young enough in the world to think men come of themselves But you are mistaken my dear That happens rarely except with inflamed and hotheaded boys whose passions are in their first innocence as well as violence Mandlebert has already given the dominion of his to other rulers who will take more care of his pride though not of his happiness Attend to one who has travelled further into life than yourself and believe me when I assert that his bane and yours alike is his security
With a colour yet deeper than ever Camilla resentfully repeated Security
Nay how can he doubt with a situation in life such as his
Situation in life Do you think he can ever suppose that would have the least the most minute weight with me
Why it would be a very shocking supposition I allow but yet somehow or other that same sordid thing called money does manage to produce such abundance of little comforts and pretty amusements that one is apt to half suspect it may really not much add to any matrimonial aversion
The very idea of such a suspicion offended Camilla beyond all else that had passed Mrs Arlbery appeared to her indelicate unkind and ungenerous and regretting she had ever seen and repenting she had ever known her she sunk upon a chair in a passionate burst of tears
Mrs Arlbery embraced her begged her pardon a thousand times assured her all she had uttered was the effect of esteem as well as of affection since she saw her too delicate and too inexperienced to be aware either of the dangers or the advantages surrounding her and that very far from meaning to hurt her she had few things more at heart than the desire of proving the sincerity of her regard and endeavouring to contribute to her happiness
Camilla thanked her dried her eyes and strove to appear composed but she was too deeply affected for internal consolation she felt herself degraded in being openly addressed as a lovesick girl and injured in being supposed for a moment capable of any mercenary view She desired to be excused going out and to have the evening to herself not on account of the expence of the play she had again wholly forgotten her poverty but to breathe a little alone and indulge the sadness of her mind
Mrs Arlbery unfeignedly sorry to have caused her any pain would not oppose her inclination she repeated her apologies dragged from her an assurance of forgiveness and went down stairs alone to a summons from Sir Sedley Clarendel
The first moments of her departure were spent by Camilla in the deepest dejection from which however the recollection of her father and her solemn engagement to him soon after awakened her She read again his injunctions and resolving not to add to her unhappiness by any failure in her duty determined to make her appearance with some spirit before Mrs Arlbery set out
My dear Clarendel cried that lady as she entered the parlour this poor little girl is in a more serious plight than I had conjectured I have been giving her a few hints from the stores of my worldly knowledge and they appear to her so detestably mean and vulgar that they have almost broken her heart The arrival of this odious Mandlebert has overthrown all our schemes We are cut up Sir Sedley completely cut up
O indubitably to a degree cried the Baronet with an air of mingled pique and conceit how could it be otherwise Exists the wight who could dream of competition with Mandlebert
Nay now my dear Clarendel you enchant me If you view his power with resentment you are the man in the world to crumble it to the dust To work therefore dear creature without delay
But how must I go about it a little instruction for pity
Charming innocent So you dont know how to try to make yourself agreeable
Not in the least I am ignorant to a redundance
And were you never more adroit
Never A goth in grain Witless from the first muling in my nurses arms
Come come a truce for a moment with foppery and answer me seriously Were you ever in love Clarendel speak the truth I am just seized with a passionate desire to know
Why yes answered he pulling his lips with his fingers I think—I rather think I was once
O tell tell tell
Nay I am not very positive One hears it is to happen and one is put upon thinking of it while so very young that one soon takes it for granted Define it a little and I can answer you more accurately Pray is it any thing beyond being very fond and very silly with a little touch of melancholy
Precise precise Tell me therefore what it was that caught you Beauty Fortune Flattery or Wit Speak speak I die to know
O I have forgotten all that these hundred years I have not the smallest trace left
You are a terrible coxcomb my dear Clarendel and I am a worse myself for giving you so much encouragement But however we must absolutely do something for this fair and drooping violet She wont go even to the play tonight
Lovely lily how shall we rear it Tell her I beg her to be of our party
You beg her My dear Sir Sedley what do you talk of
Tell her tis my entreaty my supplication
And you think that will make her comply
You will see
Bravo my dear Clarendel bravo However if you have the courage to send such a message I have not to deliver it but I will write it for you
She then wrote
Sir Sedley Clarendel asserts that if you are not as inexorable as you are fair you will not refuse to join our little party tonight at the theatre
Camilla after a severe conflict from this note which she concluded to be the mere work of Mrs Arlbery to draw her from retirement sent word she would wait upon her
Sir Sedley heard the answer with exultation and Mrs Arlbery with surprise She declared however that since he possessed this power she should not suffer it to lie dormant but make it work upon her fair friend till it either excited jealousy in Mandlebert or brought indifference to herself My resolution cried she is fixt either to see him at her feet or drive him from her heart
Camilla presently descending looked away from Mrs Arlbery but unsuspicious as she was undesigning thanked the Baronet for his message and told him she had already repented her solitary plan The Baronet felt but the more flattered from supposing this was said from the fear of flattering him
In the way to the theatre Camilla with much confusion recollected her empty purse but could not before Mr and Miss Dennel and Sir Sedley prevail with herself to make it known she could only determine to ask Mrs Arlbery to pay for her at present and defer the explanation till night
But just as she alighted from the coach Mrs Arlbery in her usual manner said Do pay for me good Dennel you know how I hate money
Camilla hurrying after her whispered May I beg you to lend me some silver
Silver I have not carried any about with me since I lost my dear ponies and my pet phaeton I am as poor as Job and therefore bent upon avoiding all temptation Somebody or other always trusts me If they get paid they bless their stars If not—do you hear me Mr Dennel—twill be all the same an hundred years hence so what man of any spirit will think of it hey Mr Dennel
But—dear madam—pray—
O theyll change for you here my dear without difficulty
But but pray stop I I have no gold neither
Have you done like me then come out without your purse
No
This single negative and the fluttered manner and low voice in which it was pronounced gave Mrs Arlbery the utmost astonishment She said nothing however but called aloud to Mr Dennel to settle for the whole party
Mr Dennel during the dialogue had paid for himself and his daughter and walked on into the box
What a Hottentot exclaimed Mrs Arlbery Come then Clarendel take pity on two poor distressed objects and let us pass
Sir Sedley little suspicious of the truth yet flattered to be always called upon to be the banker of Camilla obeyed with alacrity
Mrs Arlbery placed Camilla upon a seat before her and motioned to the Baronet to remain in a row above and then in a low voice said My dear Clarendel do you know they have let that poor girl come to Tunbridge without a sixpence in her pocket
Is it possible
Tis a fact I never suspected it till suspicion was followed by confirmation She had a guinea or two I fancy at first just to equip her with one set of things to appear in which probably the good Parson imagined would last as clean and as long at a public place as at his parsonagehouse where my best suit is worn about twice in a summer But how that rich old uncle of hers could suffer her to come without a penny I can neither account for nor forgive I have seen her shyness about moneymatters for some days past but I so little conjectured the possibility of her distress that I have always rather increased than spared it
Sweet little angel exclaimed the Baronet in a tone of tenderness I had indeed no idea of her situation Heavens I could lay half my fortune at her feet to set her at ease
Half my dear Clarendel cried Mrs Arlbery laughing nay why not the whole where will you find a more lovely companion
Pho pho—but why should it be so vastly horrid an incongruity that a man who by chance is rich should do something for a woman who by chance is poor How immensely impertinent is the prejudice that forbids so natural a use of money why should the better half of a mans actions be always under the dominion of some prescriptive slavery Tis hideous to think of And how could he more delectably spend or more ecstatically enjoy his fortune than by so equitable a participation
True Sir Sedley And you men are all so disinterested so pure in your benevolence so free from any spirit of encroachment that no possible ill consequence could ensue from such an arrangement When once a fair lady had made you a civil courtesy you would wholly forget you had ever obliged her And you would let her walk her ways and forget it also especially if by chance she happened to be young and pretty
This raillery was interrupted by the appearance of Edgar in an opposite box Ah cried Mrs Arlbery look but at that piece of congelation that nothing seems to thaw Enter the lists against him dear Clarendel He has stationed himself there merely to watch and discountenance her I hate him heartily yet he rolls in wealth and she has nothing I must bring them therefore together positively for though a husband such a fastidious one especially is not what I would recommend to her for happiness tis better than poverty And after his cold and selfish manner I am convinced he loves her He is evidently in pursuit of her though he wants generosity to act openly Work him but with a little jealousy and you will find me right
Me my dear madam me my divine Mrs Arlbery Alas with what chance No see where enters the gallant Major Thence must issue those poignant darts that newly vivify the expiring embers of languishing love
Now dont talk such nonsense when I am really serious You are the very man for the purpose because though you have no feeling Mandlebert does not know you are without it But those Officers are too notoriously unmeaning to excite a moments real apprehension They have a new dulcinea wherever they newly quarter and carry about the few ideas they possess from damsel to damsel as regularly as from town to town
The Major was now in the box and the conversation ended
He endeavoured as usual to monopolize Camilla but while her thoughts were all upon Edgar the whole she could command of her attention was bestowed upon Sir Sedley
This was not unobserved by Edgar who now again wavered in believing she loved the Major but the doubt brought with it no pleasure it led him only the more to contemn her Does she turn thought he thus from one to the other with no preference but of accident or caprice Is her favour thus light of circulation Is it now the mawkish Major and now the coxcomb Clarendel Already is she thus versed in the common dissipation of coquetry O if so how blest has been my escape A coquette wife
His heart swelled and his eye no longer sought her
At night as soon as she went to her own room Mrs Arlbery followed her and said My dear Miss Tyrold I know much better than you how many sixpences and threepences are perpetually wanted at places such as these Do suffer me to be your banker What shall we begin our account with
Camilla felt really thankful for being spared an opening upon this subject She consented to borrow two guineas but Mrs Arlbery would not leave her with less than five adding I insist upon doubling it in a day or two Never mind what I say about my distress and my phaeton and my ponies tis only to torment Dennel who trembles at parting with halfacrown for half an hour or else now and then to set other people a staring which is not unamusing when nothing else is going forward But believe me my dear young friend were I really in distress or were I really not to discharge these petty debts I incur you would soon discover it by the thinness of our parties These men that now so flock around us would find some other loadstone I know them pretty well dear creatures
Though shocked to appear thus destitute Camilla was somewhat relieved to have no debt but with Mrs Arlbery for she resolved to pay Sir Sedley and the milliner the next day and to settle with Mrs Arlbery upon her return to Etherington
CHAPTER X
Strictures upon the Ton
The next day was appointed for the master of the ceremonies ball which proved a general rendezvous of all parties and almost all classes of company
Mrs Mittin in a morning visit to Camilla found out that she had only the same cap for this occasion that she had worn upon every other and assuring her it was grown so oldfashioned that not a ladys maid in Tunbridge would now be seen in it she offered to pin her up a turban which should come to next to nothing yet should be the prettiest and simplest and cheapest thing that ever was seen
Camilla though a stranger to vanity and without any natural turn to extravagance was neither of an age nor a philosophy to be unmoved by the apprehension of being exposed to ridicule from her dress she thankfully therefore accepted the proposal and Mrs Mittin taking a guinea said she would pay Mrs Tillden for the hat at the same time that she bought a new handkerchief for the turban
When she came back however she had only laid out a few shillings at another shop for some articles so cheap she said it would have been a shame not to buy them but without paying the bill Mrs Tillden having desired it might not be discharged till the young lady was leaving the Wells
As the turban was made up from a pattern of one prepared for Mrs Berlinton Camilla had every reason to be satisfied of its elegance Nor did Mrs Mittin involve her in much distress how her own trouble might be recompensed the cap she found unfit for Camilla she could contrive she said to alter for herself and as a friend had given her a ticket for the ball it would be mighty convenient to her as she had nothing of the kind ready
Far different were the sensations with which Edgar and Camilla saw each other this night from those with which so lately they had met in the same apartment Edgar thought her degenerating into the character of a coquette and Camilla in his intended tour anticipated a period to all their intercourse
She was received meanwhile in general with peculiar and flattering attention Sir Sedley Clarendel made up to her with public smiles and courtesy even Lord Newford and Sir Theophilus Jarard though they passed by Mrs Arlbery without speaking to her singled out Camilla for their devoirs The distinction paid her by the admired Mrs Berlinton had now not only marked her as an object whom it would not be derogatory to treat with civility but as one who might henceforward be regarded herself as admitted into certain circles
Mrs Arlbery though every way a woman of fashion they conceived to be somewhat wanting in ton since she presided in no party was unnoticed by Lady Alithea Selmore and unknown to Mrs Berlinton
Ton in the scale of connoisseurs in the certain circles is as much above fashion as fashion is above fortune for though the latter is an ingredient that all alike covet to possess it is courted without being respected and desired without being honoured except only by those who from earliest life have been taught to earn it as a business Ton meanwhile is as attainable without birth as without understanding though in all the certain circles it takes place of either To define what it is would be as difficult to the most renowned of its votaries as to an utter stranger to its attributes That those who call themselves of the ton either lead or hold cheap all others is obtrusively evident but how and by what art they attain such preeminence they would be perplexed to explain That some whim has happily called forth imitators that some strange phrase has been adopted that something odd in dress has become popular that some beauty or some deformity no matter which has found annotators may commonly be traced as the origin of their first public notice But to whichever of these accidents their early fame may be attributed its establishment and its glory is built upon vanity that knows no deficiency or insolence that knows no blush
Notwithstanding her high superiority both in capacity and knowledge Mrs Arlbery felt piqued by this behaviour though she laughed at herself for heeding it Nevertheless cried she those who shew contempt even though themselves are the most contemptible always seem on the higher ground Yet tis only with regard to these animals of the ton that nobody combats them Their presumption is so notorious that either by disgust or alarm it keeps off reprehension Let anyone boldly and face to face venture to be more uncivil than themselves and they would be overpowered at once Their valour is no better than that of a barking cur who affrights all that go on without looking at him but who the moment he is turned upon with a stamp and a fierce look retreats himself amazed afraid and ashamed
If you Mrs Arlbery said the General would undertake to tutor them what good you might do
O Heavens General suspect me not of such reforming Quixotism I have not the smallest desire to do them any good believe me If nature has given them no sense of propriety why should I be more liberal I only want to punish them and that not alas from virtue but from spite
The conversation of the two men of the ton with Camilla was soon over It was made up of a few disjointed sentences abusing Tunbridge and praising the German Spa in cant words emphatically and conceitedly pronounced and brought round upon every occasion and in every speech with so precise an exclusion of all other terms that their vocabulary scarce consisted of forty words in totality
Edgar occupied the space they vacated the moment of their departure but not alone Mrs Mittin came into it with him eager to tell Camilla how everybody had admired her turban how sweetly she looked in it how everybody said they should not have known her again it became her so and how they all agreed her head had never been so well dressed before
Edgar when he could be heard began speaking of Sir Sedley Clarendel he felt miserable in what he thought her inconsiderate encouragement of such impertinence and the delicacy which restrained him from expressing his opinion of the Major had no weight with him here as jealousy had no share in his dislike to the acquaintance he believed the young Baronet incapable of all love but for himself and a decidedly destined bachelor without therefore the smallest hesitation he plainly avowed that he had never met with a more thoroughly conceited fop a more elaborate and selfsufficient coxcomb
You see him only said Camilla with the impression made by his general appearance and that is all against him I always look for his better qualities and rejoice in finding them His very sight fills me with grateful pleasure by reminding me of the deliverance I owe to him
Edgar amazed intreated an explanation and when she had given it struck and affected clasped his hands and exclaimed How providential such a rescue and how differently shall I henceforth behold him And almost involuntarily turning to Mrs Arlbery he intreated to be presented to the young Baronet
Sir Sedley received his overtures with some surprise but great civility and then went on with a ludicrous account he was giving to Lord Newford and Sir Theophilus of the quarrel of Macdersey with Mr Dubster
How awake thou art grown Clary cried Sir Theophilus A little while ago thou wast all hip and vapour and now thou dost nothing but patronise fun
Why yes answered the Baronet I begin to tire of ennui Tis grown so common I saw my footman beginning it but last week
O hang it O curse it cried Lord Newford your footman
Yes the rogue is not without parts I dont know if I shant give him some lessons upon leaving it off myself The only difficulty is to find out what in this nether world to do without it How can one fill up ones time Stretching yawning and all that are such delicious ingredients for coaxing on the lazy hours
O hang it O curse it cried Lord Newford who can exist without them I would not be bound to pass half an hour without yawning and stretching for the Moguls empire Id rather snap short at once
No no dont snap short yet little Newy cried Sir Sedley As to me I am never at a loss for an expedient I am not without some thoughts of falling in love
He looked at Edgar who not aware this was designed to catch his attention naturally exclaimed Thoughts can you choose or avoid at pleasure
Most certainly After fourandtwenty a man is seldom taken by surprise at least not till he is past forty and then the fear of being too late sometimes renovates the eagerness of the first youth But in general your willing slaves are boys
Edgar laughing begged a little information how he meant to put his thoughts in execution
Nothing so facile Tis but to look at some fair object attentively to follow her with your eyes when she quits the room never to let them rest without watching for her return filling up the interval with a few sighs to which in a short time you grow so habituated that they become natural and then before you are aware a certain solicitude and restlessness arise which the connoisseurs in natural history dub falling in love
These would be good hints said Edgar to urge on waverers who wish to persuade themselves to marry
O no my dear sir no thats a mistake of the first magnitude no man is in love when he marries He may have loved before I have even heard he has sometimes loved after but at the time never There is something in the formalities of the matrimonial preparations that drive away all the little cupidons They rarely stand even a demand of consent—unless they doubt obtaining it but a settlement Parchments Lawyers—No there is not a little Love in the Island of Cyprus that is not ready to lend a wing to set passion inspiration and tenderness to flight from such excruciating legalities
Dont prose Clary dont prose cried Sir Theophilus gaping till his mouth was almost distorted
O killing O murder cried Lord Newford what dost talk of marriage for
It seems then said Edgar to be much the same thing what sort of wife falls to a mans lot whether the woman of his choice or a person he should blush to own
Blush repeated Sir Sedley smiling no no A man of any fashion never blushes for his wife whatever she may be For his mistress indeed he may blush for if there are any small failings there his taste may be called in question
Blush about a wife exclaimed Lord Newford O hang it O curse it thats too bad
Too bad indeed cried Sir Theophilus I cant possibly patronise blushing for a wife
Tis the same then also said Edgar how she turns out when the knot is tied whether well or ill
To exactitude If he marry her for beauty let her prove what she may her face offers his apology If for money he needs none But if indeed by some queer chance he marries with a view of living with her then indeed if his particularity gets wind he may grow a little anxious for the acquittal of his oddity in seeing her approved
Approved Ha ha cried Lord Newford a wife approved Thats too bad Clary thats too bad
Poor Clary what art prosing about cried Sir Theophilus I cant possibly patronise this prosing
The entrance of the beautiful Mrs Berlinton and her train now interrupted this conversation the young Baronet immediately joined her though not till he had given his hand to Edgar in token of his willingness to cultivate his acquaintance
Edgar returning to Camilla confessed he had too hastily judged Sir Sedley when he concluded him a fool as well as a fop For added he with a smile I see now one of those epithets is all he merits He is certainly far from deficient in parts though he abuses the good gifts of nature with such pedantry of affectation and conceit
Camilla was now intent to clear the history of the cotillon when Mrs Berlinton approaching and with graceful fondness taking her hand entreated to be indulged with her society and since she meant not to dance for Edgar had not asked her and the Major she had refused she could not resist her invitation She had lost her fear of displeasing Mrs Arlbery by quitting her from conceiving a still greater of wearying by remaining with her
Edgar anxious both to understand and to discuss this new connexion hovered about the party with unremitting vigilance But though he could not either look at or listen to Mrs Berlinton without admiring her his admiration was neither free from censure of herself nor terrour for her companion he saw her far more beautiful than prudent more amiable than dignified The females in her group were few and little worthy notice the males appeared to a man without disguise though not without restraint her lovers And though no one seemed selected no one seemed despised she appeared to admit their devoirs with little consideration neither modestly retiring from power nor vainly displaying it
Camilla quitted not this enchantress till summoned by Mrs Arlbery who seeing herself again from the arrival of Lady Alithea Selmore without any distinguished party that lady drawing into her circle all people of any consequence not already attracted by Mrs Berlinton grew sick of the ball and the rooms and impatient to return home Camilla in retiring presented folded in a paper the guinea halfguinea and silver she had borrowed of Sir Sedley who received it without presuming at any contest though not after what he had heard from Mrs Arlbery without reluctance
Edgar watched the instant when Camilla moved from the gay group but Mrs Mittin watched it also and approaching her more speedily because with less embarrassment seized her arm before he could reach her and before he could with any discretion glide to her other side Miss Dennel was there
Well now young ladies said Mrs Mittin Im going to tell you a secret Do you know for all I call myself Mrs Im single
Dear la exclaimed Miss Dennel and for all youre so old
So old Miss Who told you I was so old Im not so very old as you may think me Im no particular age I assure you Why what made you think of that
La I dont know only you dont look very young
I cant help that Miss Dennel Perhaps you maynt look young yourself one of these days People cant always stand still just at a particular minute Why how old now do you take me to be Come be sincere
La Im sure I cant tell only I thought you was an old woman
An old woman Lord my dear people would laugh to hear you You dont know what an old woman is Why its being a cripple and blind and deaf and dumb and slavering and without a tooth Pray how am I like all that
Nay Im sure I dont know only I thought by the look of your face you must be monstrous old
Lord I cant think what youve got in your head Miss Dennel I never heard as much before since I was born Why the reason Im called Mrs is not because of that I assure you but because Id a mind to be taken for a young widow on account everybody likes a young widow and if one is called Miss people being so soon to think one an old maid that its quite disagreeable
This discourse brought them to the carriage
CHAPTER XI
Traits of Character
The following morning Mrs Mittin came with eager intelligence that the raffle was fixed for one oclock and without any scruple accompanied the party to the shop addressing herself to every one of the set as to a confirmed and intimate friend But her chief supporter was Mr Dennel whose praise of her was the vehicle to his censure of his sisterinlaw That lady was the person in the world whom he most feared and disliked He had neither spirit for the splendid manner in which she lived nor parts for the vivacity of her conversation The first his love of money made him condemn as extravagant and the latter his selflove made him hate because he could not understand He persuaded himself therefore that she had more words than meaning and extolled all the obvious truths uttered by Mrs Mittin to shew his superior admiration of what being plain and incontrovertible he dignified with the panegyric of being sensible
When they came upon the Pantiles they were accosted by Mr Dubster who having solemnly asked them one by one how they all did joined Mrs Mittin saying Well I cant pretend as Im over sorry youve got neither of those two comical gentlemen with you that behaved so free to me for nothing I dont think its particular agreeable being treated so though its a thing I dont much mind Its not worth fretting about
Well dont say any more about it cried Mrs Mittin endeavouring to shake him off I dare say you did something to provoke em or theyre too genteel to have taken notice of you
Me provoke them why what did I do I was just like a mere lamb as one may say at the very time that young Captain fell abusing me so calling of me a little dirty fellow without no provocation If Im little or big I dont see that its any business of his And as to dirty Id put on all clean linen but the very day before as the people can tell you at the inn so the whole was a mere piece of falsehood from one end to tother
Well well what do you talk about it for any more You should never take anything ill of a young gentleman Its only aggravating him so much the worse
Aggravating him Mrs Mittin why what need I mind that Do you think Im to put up with his talking of caning me and such like because of his being a young gentleman Not I I assure you Im no such person And if once I feel his switch across these here shoulders it wont be so well for him
The party now entered the shop where the raffle was to be held
Edgar was already there he had no power to keep away from any place where he was sure to behold Camilla and a raffle brought to his mind the most tender recollections He was now with Lord OLerney in whose candour and benevolence of character he took great delight and with whom he had joined Lady Isabella Irby who had been drawn as a quiet spectatress to the sight by a friend who having never seen the humours of a raffle had entreated through her means to look on He languished to see Camilla presented to this lady in whose manners and conversation dignity and simplicity were equally blended
While he was yet though absently conversing with them Lord OLerney pointed out Camilla to Lady Isabella
I have taken notice of her already at the Rooms answered her Ladyship and I have seldom I think seen a more interesting young creature
The character of her countenance said Lord OLerney strikes me very peculiarly Tis so intelligent yet so unhackneyed so full of meaning yet so artless that while I look at her I feel myself involuntarily anxious for her welfare
I dont think she seems happy said Lady Isabella Do you know who she is my Lord
Edgar here with difficulty suppressed a sigh Not happy thought he ah wherefore what can make Camilla unhappy
I understand she is a niece of Sir Hugh Tyrold answered his Lordship a Yorkshire Baronet She is here with an acquaintance of mine Mrs Arlbery who is one of the first women I have ever known for wit and capacity She has an excellent heart too though her extraordinary talents and her carelessness of opinion make it sometimes but very unjustly doubted
Edgar heard this with much pleasure A good word from Lord OLerney quieted many fears he hoped he had been unnecessarily alarmed he determined in future to judge her more favourably
I should be glad continued his Lordship to hear this young lady were either well established or returned to her friends without becoming an object of public notice A young woman is no where so rarely respectable or respected as at these waterdrinking places if seen at them either long or often The search of pleasure and dissipation at a spot consecrated for restoring health to the sick the infirm and the suffering carries with it an air of egotism that does not give the most pleasant idea of the feeling and disposition
Yet may not the sick my Lord be rather amended than hurt by the sight of gaiety around them
Yes my dear Lady Isabella and the effect therefore I believe to be beneficial But as this is not the motive why the young and the gay seek these spots it is not here they will find themselves most honoured And the mixture of pain and illness with splendor and festivity is so unnatural that probably it is to that we must attribute that a young woman is no where so hardly judged If she is without fortune she is thought a female adventurer seeking to sell herself for its attainment if she is rich she is supposed a willing dupe ready for a snare and only looking about for an ensnarer
And yet young women seldom I believe my Lord merit this severity of judgment They come but hither in the summer as they go to London in the winter simply in search of amusement without any particular purpose
True but they do not weigh what their observers weigh for them that the search of public recreation in the winter is from long habit permitted without censure but that the summer has not as yet prescription so positively in its favour and those who after meeting them all the winter at the opera and all the spring at Ranelagh hear of them all the summer at Cheltenham Tunbridge c and all the autumn at Bath are apt to inquire when is the season for home
Ah my Lord how wide are the poor inconsiderate little flutterers from being aware of such a question How necessary to youth and thoughtlessness is the wisdom of experience!'
Why does she not come this way thought Edgar why does she not gather from these mild yet understanding moralists instruction that might benefit all her future life
There is nothing said Lord OLerney I more sincerely pity than the delusions surrounding young females The strongest admirers of their eyes are frequently the most austere satirists of their conduct
The entrance of Lord Newford Sir Theophilus Jarard and Sir Sedley Clarendel all noisily talking and laughing together interrupted any further conversation The two former no sooner saw Camilla and perceived neither Lady Alithea Selmore nor Mrs Berlinton than they made up to her and Sir Sedley who now found she was completely established in the bon ton felt something of pride mix with pleasure in publicly availing himself of his intimacy with her and something like interest mix with curiosity in examining if Edgar were struck with her ready attention to him
Upon Edgar however it made not the slightest impression While Sir Sedley had appeared to him a mere fop he had thought it degraded her but how he regarded him as her preserver it seemed both natural and merited
Sir Sedley not aware of this reasoning was somewhat piqued and taking him to another part of the shop whispered I am horribly vapoured Do you know I have some thoughts of trying that little girl Do you think one could make anything of her
How what do you mean cried Edgar with sudden alarm
Sir Sedley a little flattered affectedly answered O if you have any serious designs that way incontestably I wont interfere
Me cried Edgar surprised and offended believe me no I have all my life considered her—as my sister
Sir Sedley saw this was spoken with effort and negligently replied Nay you are just at the first epocha for marrying from inclination but you are in the right not to perform so soon the funeral honours of liberty Tis what you may do at any time So many girls want establishments that a man of sixty can just as easily get a wife of eighteen as a man of oneandtwenty The only inconvenience in that sort of alliance is that though she begins with submitting to her venerated husband as prettily as to her papa she is terribly apt to have a knack of running away from him afterwards with equal facility
That is rather a discouraging article I confess cried Edgar for the tardy votaries of Hymen
O no tis no great matter answered he patting his snuffbox we are impenetrable in the extreme to those sort of grievances nowadays We are at such prodigious expence of sensibility in public for tales of sorrow told about pathetically at a full board that if we suffered much for our private concerns to boot we must always meet one another with tears in our eyes We never weep now but at dinner or at some diversion
Lord Newford pulling him by the arm called out Come Clary what art about man we want thee
Come Clary dont shirk Clary cried Sir Theophilus I cant possibly patronise this shirking And they hauled him to a corner of the shop where all three resumed their customary laughing whispers
You will not perhaps suspect Lady Isabella said Lord OLerney smiling that one of that triumvirate is by no means deficient in parts and can even when he desires it be extremely pleasing
Your Lordship judges right I confess I had not indeed done him such justice
See then said his Lordship how futile an animal is man without some decided character and principle
Hes every thing by turns and nothing long3
Wise foolish virtuous vicious active indolent prodigal and avaricious No contrast is too strong for him while guided but by accident or impulse This gentleman also in common with the rest of his tonnish brethren is now daily though unconsciously hoarding up a world of unpreparedfor mortification by not foreseeing that the more he is celebrated in his youth for being the leader of the ton and the man of the day the earlier he will be regarded as a creature out of date an old beau and a fine gentleman of former times But tis by reverses such as these that folly and impropriety pay their penalties We might spare all our anger against the vanity of the beauty or the conceit of the coxcomb Are not wrinkles always in waiting to punish the one and age without honour to chastise and degrade the other
All the rafflers were now arrived except Mrs Berlinton who was impatiently expected Lady Alithea Selmore had already sent a proxy to throw for her in her own woman much to the dissatisfaction of most part of the company A general rising and inquietude to look out for Mrs Berlinton gave Edgar at length an opportunity to stand next to Camilla How I grieve he cried you should not know Lady Isabella Irby she seems to me a model for a woman of rank in her manners and a model for a woman of every station in her mind The world I believe could scarce have tempted her to so offensive a mark of superiority as has just been exhibited by Lady Alithea Selmore who has ingeniously discovered a method of being signalised as the most important person out of twenty by making herself nineteen enemies
I wonder said Camilla she can think the chance of the earrings worth so high a price
A footman in a splendid livery now entering inquired for Miss Tyrold She was pointed out to him by Major Cerwood and he delivered her a letter from Mrs Berlinton
The contents were to entreat she would throw for that lady who was in the midst of Akensides Pleasures of the Imagination and could not tear herself away from them
Camilla blushed excessively in proclaiming she was chosen Mrs Berlintons proxy Edgar saw with tenderness her modest confusion and with a pleasure the most touching read the favourable impression it made upon Lord OLerney and Lady Isabella
This seemed an opportunity irresistible for venting his fears and cautions about Mrs Berlinton and taking the bustling period in which the rafflers were arranging the order and manner of throwing he said in a low and diffident tone of voice You have committed to me an important and I fear an importunate office yet while I hold I cannot persuade myself not to fulfil it though I know that to give advice which opposes sentiment and feeling is repugnant to independence and to delicacy Such therefore I do not mean to enforce but merely to offer hints—intimations—and observations—that without controlling may put you upon your guard
Camilla affected by this unexpected address could only look her desire for an explanation
The lady he continued whom you are presently to represent appears to be uncommonly engaging—
Indeed she is She is attractive gentle amiable
She seems also already to have caught your affection
Who could have withheld it that had seen her as I have seen her She is as unhappy as she is lovely
I have heard of your first meeting with as much pleasure in the presence of mind it called forth on one side as with doubt and perplexity upon every circumstance I can gather of the other—
If you knew her you would find it impossible to hold any doubts impossible to resist admiring compassionating and loving her
If my knowledge of her bribed an interest in her favour without convincing me she deserved it I ought rather to regret that you have not escaped falling into such a snare than that I could have escaped it myself
I believe her free nay incapable of all ill cried Camilla warmly though I dare not assert she is always coolly upon her guard
Do not let me hurt you said Edgar gently I have seen how lovely she is in person and how pleasing in manners And she is so young that were she in a situation less exposed want of steadiness or judgment might by a little time be set right But here there is surely much to fear from her early possession of power O that some happier chance had brought about such a peculiar intercourse for you with Lady Isabella Irby There to the pleasure of friendship might be added the modesty of retired elegance and the security of established respectability
And may not this yet happen with Mrs Berlinton Lady Isabella though still young is not in the extreme youth of Mrs Berlinton a few more years therefore may bring equal discretion and as she has already every other good quality you may hereafter equally approve her
Do you think then said Edgar half smiling that the few years of difference in their age were spent by Lady Isabella in the manner they are now spent by Mrs Berlinton do you think she paved the way for her present dignified though unassuming character by permitting herself to be surrounded by professed admirers by letting their sighs reach her ears by suffering their eyes to fasten with open rapture on her face and by holding it sufficient not to suppress such liberties so long as she does not avowedly encourage them
Camilla was startled She had not seen her conduct in this light yet her understanding refused to deny it might bear this interpretation
Charmed with the candour of her silence Edgar continued How wide from all that is open to similar comment is the carriage and behaviour of Lady Isabella how clear how transparent how free from all conjecture of blemish They may each indeed essentially be equally innocent and your opinion of Mrs Berlinton corroborates the impression made by her beautiful countenance yet how far more highly is the true feminine character preserved where surmise is not raised than where it can be parried Think but of those two ladies and mark the difference Lady Isabella addressed only where known followed only because loved sees no adulators encircling her for adulation would alarm her no admirers paying her homage for such homage would offend her She knows she has not only her own innocence to guard but the honour of her husband Whether she is happy with him or not this deposit is equally sacred—
He stopt for Camilla again started The irrepressible frankness of her nature revolted against denying how much this last sentence struck her and she ingenuously exclaimed O that this most amiable young creature were but more aware of this duty
Ah my dear Miss Camilla cried Edgar with energy since you feel and own and with you that is always one this baneful deficiency drop or at least suspend an intercourse too hazardous to be indulged with propriety See what she may be sometime hence ere you contract further intimacy At present unexperienced and unsuspicious her dangers may be yours You are too young for such a risk Fly fly from it my dear Miss Camilla as if the voice of your mother were calling out to caution you
Camilla was deeply touched An interest so warm in her welfare was soothing and the name of her mother rendered it awful yet thus united it appeared to her more strongly than ever to announce itself as merely fraternal She could not suppress a sigh but he attributed it to the request he had urged and with much concern added What I have asked of you then is too severe
Again irresistibly sighing yet collecting all her force to conceal the secret cause she answered If she is thus exposed to danger if her situation is so perilous ought I not rather to stay by and help to support her than by abandoning perhaps contribute to the evil you think awaiting her
Generous Camilla cried he melted into tender admiration who can oppose so kind a design So noble a nature
No more could be said for all preliminaries had been settled and the throwing being arranged to take place alphabetically she was soon summoned to represent Mrs Berlinton
From this time Edgar could speak to her no more even the Major could scarcely make way to her the two men of the ton would not quit her and Sir Sedley Clarendel appeared openly devoted to her
Edgar looked on with the keenest emotion The proof he had just received that her intrinsic worth was in its first state of excellence had come home to his heart and the fear of seeing her altered and spoilt by the flatteries and dangers which environed her with his wavering belief in her engagement with Major Cerwood made him more wretched than ever But when some time after she was called upon to throw for herself the recollection that from the former raffle her halfguinea even when the prize was in her hand had been voluntarily withdrawn to be bestowed upon a poor family so powerfully affected him that he could not rest in the shop he was obliged to breathe a freer air and to hide his disturbance by a retreat
Her throw was the highest the dice had yet afforded A Miss Williams alone came after her whose throw was the lowest Miss Camilla Tyrold therefore was proclaimed to be the winner
This second testimony of the favour of fortune was a most pleasant surprise to Camilla and made the room resound with felicitations till they were interrupted by a violent quarrel upon the Pantiles whence the voice of Macdersey was heard hollooing out Dont talk I say sir dont presume to say a word and that of Mr Dubster angrily answering he would talk as long as he thought proper whether it was agreeable or not
Sir Sedley advanced to the combatants in order to help on the dispute but Edgar returning at the sound of high words took the Ensign by the arm and prevailed with him to accompany him up and down the Pantiles while Mrs Mittin ran to Mr Dubster and pulling him into the shop said Mr Dubster if Im not ashamed of you how can you forget yourself so talking to gentlemen at such a rate
Why what should hinder me cried he do you think I shall put up with every thing as I used to do when you first knew me and we used to meet at Mr Typtons the tallow chandlers in Shuglane no Mrs Mittin nor no such a thing Im turned gentleman myself now as much as the best of em for Ive nothing to do but just what I choose
I protest Mr Dubster cried Mrs Mittin taking him into a corner youre enough to put a saint into a pet how come you to think of talking of Mr Typton here before such gentlefolks and wheres the use of telling every body hes a tallow chandler and as to my meeting with you there once or so in a way I desire youll mention it no more for its so long ago I have no recollection of it
No why dont you remember—
Fiddle faddle whats the good of ripping up old stories about nothing when youre with genteel people you must do as I do never talk about business at all
Macdersey now entered the shop appeased by Edgar from shewing any further wrath but wantonly inflamed by Sir Sedley in a dispute upon the passion of love
Do you always my dear friend said the Baronet fall in love at first sight
To be sure I do If a man makes a scruple of that its ten to one but hes disappointed of doing it at all because after two or three second sights the danger is you may spy out some little flaw in the dear angel that takes off the zest and hinders you to the longest day you have to live
Profoundly cogitated that you think then my vast dear sir the passion had more conveniently be kindled first that the flaws may appear after to cure it
No sir no when a mans once in love those flaws dont signify because he cant see them or if he could at least hed scorn to own them
Live for ever brave Ireland exclaimed Mrs Arlbery what cold phelgmatic Englishman would have made a speech of so much gallantry
As to an Englishman said Macdersey you must never mind what he says about the ladies because hes too sheepish to speak out Hes just as often in love as his neighbours only hes so shy he wont own it till he sees if the young fair one is as much in love as himself but a generous Irishman never scruples to proclaim the girl of his heart though he should have twenty in a year
But is that perfectly delicate my dearest sir to the several Dulcineas
Perfectly your Irishman is the delicatest man upon earth to the fair sex for he always talks of their cruelty if they are never so kind He knows every honest heart will pity him if its true and if it int he is too much a man of honour not to complain all one he knows how agreeable it is to the dear creatures they always take it for a compliment
Whether avowedly or clandestinely said Mrs Arlbery still you are all in our chains Even where you play the tyrant with us we occupy all your thoughts and if you have not the skill to make us happy your next delight is to make us miserable for though now and then you can contrive to hate you can never arrive at forgetting us
Contrive to hate you repeated Macdersey I could as soon contrive to turn the world into a potato there is nothing upon earth nothing under the whole firmament I value but beauty
A cheerful glass then said Sir Sedley you think horridly intolerable
A cheerful glass sir do you take me for a milksop do you think I dont know what it is to be a man a cheerful glass sir is the first pleasure in life the most convivial the most exhilarating the most friendly joy of a true honest soul what were existence without it I should choose to be off in half an hour which I should only make so long not to shock my friends
Well the glass is not what I patronise said Sir Theophilus it hips me so consumedly the next day no I cant patronise the glass
Not patronise wine cried Lord Newford O hang it O curse it thats too bad Offy but hunting what dost think of that little Offy
Too obstreperous It rouses one at such aukward hours no I cant patronise hunting
Hunting cried Macdersey O it leaves everything behind it tis the thing upon the earth for which I have the truest taste I know nothing else that is not a bauble to it A man is no more in my estimation than a child or a woman that dont enjoy it
Cards then said Sir Sedley you reprobate
And dice—cried Lord Newford—
And betting—cried Sir Theophilus
Why what do you take me for gentlemen replied Macdersey hotly Do you think I have no soul no fire no feeling Do you suppose me a stone a block a lump of lead I scorn such suspicions I dont hold them worth answering I am none of that torpid morbid drowsy tribe I hold nobody to have an idea of life that has not rattled in his own hand the dear little box of promise What ecstasy not to know if in two seconds one maynt be worth ten thousand pounds or else without a farthing how it puts one on the rack Theres nothing to compare with it I would not give up that moment to be sovereign of the East Indies no not if the West were to be put into the bargain
All these things said Mr Dennel are fit for nothing but to bring a man to ruin The main chance is all that is worth thinking of Tis money makes the mare to go and I dont know any thing thats to be done without it
Money exclaimed Macdersey tis the thing under heaven I hold in the most disdain It wont give me a moments concern never to see its colour again I vow solemnly if it were not just for the pleasures of the table and a jolly glass with a friend and a few horses in ones stable and a little ready cash in ones purse for odd uses I should not care if the mint were sunk under ground tomorrow money is what I most despise of all
Thats talking out of reason,' said Mr Dennel walking out of the shop with great disgust
Why if I was to speak said Mr Dubster encouraged to come forward by an observation so much to his own comprehension and taste as the last I cant but say I think the same for money—
Keep your distance sir cried the fiery Ensign keep your distance I tell you if you dont wish I should say something to you pretty cutting
This broke up the party which else the lounging spirit of the place and the general consent by which all descriptions of characters seem determined to occupy any spot whatever to avoid a moments abode in their lodgings would still have detained till the dinner hour had forced to their respective homes To suppress all possibility of further dissention Mrs Arlbery put Miss Dennel under the care of Macdersey and bid him attend her towards Mount Pleasant
Mr Dubster having stared after them some time in silence called out Keep my distance I cant but say but what I think that young Captain the rudest young gentleman I ever happened to light upon however if he dont like me I shant take it much to heart I cant pretend to say I like him any better so he may choose its much the same to me it breaks no squares
Edgar almost without knowing it followed Camilla but he could displace neither the Baronet nor the Major who one with a look of open exultation and the other with an air of determined perseverance retained each his post at her side
He saw that all her voluntary attention was to Sir Sedley and that the Major had none but what was called for and inevitable Was this indifference or security was she seeking to obtain in the Baronet a new adorer or to excite jealousy through his means in an old one Silent he walked on perpetually exclaiming to himself Can it be Camilla the ingenuous the artless Camilla I find it so difficult to fathom to comprehend to trust
He had not spirits to join Mrs Arlbery though he lamented he had not at once visited her since it was now awkward to take such a step without an invitation which she seemed by no means disposed to offer him She internally resented the little desire he had ever manifested for her acquaintance and they had both too much penetration not to perceive how wide either was from being the favourite of the other
CHAPTER XII
Traits of Eccentricity
Thus passed the first eight days of the Tunbridge excursion and another week succeeded without any varying event
Mrs Arlbery now impelled with concern for Camilla and resentment against Edgar renewed the subject of her opinion and advice upon his character and conduct My dear young friend cried she I cannot bear to see your days your views your feelings thus fruitlessly consumed I have observed this young man narrowly and I am convinced he is not worth your consideration
Camilla deeply colouring was beginning to assure her she had no need of this counsel but Mrs Arlbery not listening continued
I know what you must say yet once more I cannot refrain venturing at the liberty of lending you my experience Turn your mind from him with all the expedition in your power or its peace may be touched for the better half of your life You do not see he does not perhaps himself know how exactly he is calculated to make you wretched He is a watcher and a watcher restless and perturbed himself infests all he pursues with uneasiness He is without trust and therefore without either courage or consistency Today he may be persuaded you will make all his happiness tomorrow he may fear you will give him nothing but misery Yet it is not that he is jealous of any other tis of the object of his choice he is jealous lest she should not prove good enough to merit it Such a man after long wavering and losing probable happiness in the terror of possible disappointment will either die an old batchelor with endless repinings at his own lingering fastidiousness or else marry just at the eve of confinement for life from a fit of the gout He then makes on a sudden the first prudent choice in his way a choice no longer difficult but from the embarrassment of its ease for she must have no beauty lest she should be sought by others no wit lest others should be sought by herself and no fortune lest she should bring with it a taste of independence that might curb his own will when the strength and spirit are gone with which he might have curbed hers
Camilla attempted to laugh at this portrait but Mrs Arlbery entreated her to consider it as faithful and exact You have thought of him too much cried she to do justice to any other or you would not with such perfect unconcern pass by your daily increasing influence with Sir Sedley Clarendel
Excessively and very seriously offended Camilla earnestly besought to be spared any hints of such a nature
I know well cried she how repugnant to seventeen is every idea of life that is rational Let us therefore set aside in our discussions any thing so really beneficial as a solid connection formed with a view to the worldly comforts of existence, and speak of Sir Sedleys devoirs merely as the instrument of teaching Mandlebert that he is not the only rich young and handsome man in this lower sphere who has viewed Miss Camilla Tyrold with complacency Clarendel it is true would lose every charm in my estimation by losing his heart for the earth holds nothing comparable for deadness of weight with a poor soul really in love—except when it happens to be with oneself—yet to alarm the selfish irresolution of that impenetrable Mandlebert I should really delight to behold him completely caught
Camilla distressed and confused sought to parry the whole as raillery but Mrs Arlbery would not be turned aside from her subject and purpose I languish I own cried she to see that frozen youth worked up into a little sensibility I have an instinctive aversion to those cold haughty drawingback characters who are made up of the egotism of looking out for something that is wholly devoted to them and that has not a breath to breathe that is not a sigh for their perfections
O this is far Camilla began meaning to say far from the character of Mandlebert but ashamed of undertaking his defence she stopt short and only mentally added Even excellence such as his cannot then withstand prejudice
If there is any way continued Mrs Arlbery of animating him for a moment out of himself it can only be by giving him a dread of some other The poor Major does his best but he is not rich enough to be feared unless he were more attractive Sir Sedley will seem more formidable Countenance therefore his present propensity to wear your chains till Mandlebert perceives that he is putting them on and then mount to the rising ground you ought to tread and shew at once your power and your disinterestedness by turning from the handsome Baronet and all his immense wealth to mark since you are determined to indulge it your unbiassed preference for Mandlebert
Camilla irresistibly appeased by a picture so flattering to all her best feelings and dearest wishes looked down angry with herself to find she felt no longer angry with Mrs Arlbery
Mrs Arlbery perceiving a point gained determined to enforce the blow and then leave her to her reflections
Mandlebert is a creature whose whole composition is a pile of accumulated punctilios He will spend his life in refining away his own happiness but do not let him refine away yours He is just a man to bewitch an innocent and unguarded young woman from forming any other connexion and yet when her youth and expectations have been sacrificed to his hesitation to conceive he does not use her ill in thinking of her no more because he has entered into no verbal engagement If his honour cannot be arraigned of breaking any bond What matters merely breaking her heart
She then left the room but Camilla dwelt upon nothing she had uttered except the one dear and inviting project of proving disinterestedness to Edgar O if once she cried I could annihilate every mercenary suspicion If once I could shew Edgar that his situation has no charms for me and it has none none then indeed I am his equal though I am nothing equal in what is highest in mind in spirit in sentiment
From this time the whole of her behaviour became coloured by this fascinating idea and a scheme which if proposed to her under its real name of coquetry she would have fled and condemned with antipathy when presented to her as a means to mark her freedom from sordid motives she adopted with inconsiderate fondness The sight therefore of Edgar wherever she met him became now the signal for adding spirit to the pleasure with which already and without any design she had attended to the young Baronet Exertion gave to her the gaiety of which solicitude had deprived her and she appeared in the eyes of Sir Sedley every day more charming She indulged him with the history of her adventure at the house of Mr Dubster and his prevalent taste for the ridiculous made the account enchant him He cast off in return all airs of affectation when he conversed with her separately and though still in all mixt companies they were resumed the real integrity as well as indifference of her heart made that a circumstance but to stimulate this new species of intercourse by representing it to be equally void of future danger to them both
All this however failed of its desired end Edgar never saw her engaged by Sir Sedley but he thought her youthfully grateful and esteemed her the more or beheld her as a mere coquette and ceased to esteem her at all But never for a moment was any personal uneasiness excited by their mutually increasing intimacy The conversations he had held both with the Baronet and herself had satisfied him that neither entertained one serious thought of the other and he took therefore no interest in their acquaintance beyond that which was always alive—a vigilant concern for the manner in which it might operate upon her disposition
With respect to the Major he was by no means so entirely at his ease He saw him still the declared and undisguised pursuer of her favour and though he perceived at the same time she rather avoided than sought him he still imagined in general his acceptance was arranged from the many preceding circumstances which had first given him that belief The whole of her behaviour nevertheless perplexed as much as it grieved him and frequently in the same half hour she seemed to him all that was most amiable for inspiring admiration and all that was least to be depended upon for retaining attachment
Yet however from time to time he felt alarmed or offended he never ceased to experience the fondest interest in her happiness nor the most tender compassion for the dangers with which he saw her environed He knew that though her understanding was excellent her temper was so inconsiderate that she rarely consulted it and that though her mind was of the purest innocence it was unguarded by caution and unprotected by reflexion He thought her placed where far higher discretion far superior experience might risk being shaken and he did not more fervently wish than internally tremble for her safety Wherever she appeared she was sure of distinction Tis Miss Tyrold the friend of Mrs Berlinton was buzzed round the moment she was seen and the particular favour in which she stood with some votaries of the ton made even her artlessness her retired education and her ignorance of all that pertained to the certain circles past over and forgiven in consideration of her personal attractions her youth and newness
Still however even this celebrity was not what most he dreaded so sudden and unexpected an elevation upon the heights of fashionable fame might make her head indeed giddy but her heart he thought formed of materials too pure and too good to be endangered so lightly and though frequently when he saw her so circumstanced he feared she was undone for private life he could not reflect upon her principles and disposition without soon recovering the belief that a short time might restore her mind to its native simplicity and worth But another rock was in the way against which he apprehended she might be dashed whilst least suspicious of any peril
This rock indeed exhibited nothing to the view that could have affrighted any spectator less anxiously watchful or less personally interested in regarding it But youth itself in the fervour of a strong attachment is as openeyed as observant and as prophetic as age with all its concomitants of practice time and suspicion This rock indeed far from giving notice of danger by any sharp points or rough prominences displayed only the smoothest and most inviting surface for it was Mrs Berlinton the beautiful the accomplished the attractive Mrs Berlinton whom he beheld as the object of the greatest risk she had to encounter
As he still preserved the character with which she had consented to invest him of her monitor he seized every opportunity of communicating to her his doubts and apprehensions But in proportion as her connexion with that lady increased use to her manners and sentiments abated the wonderment they inspired and they soon began to communicate an unmixt charm that made all other society that of Edgar alone excepted heartless and uninteresting Yet in the conversations she held with him from time to time she frankly related the extraordinary attachment of her new friend to some unknown correspondent and confessed her own surprise when it first came to her knowledge
Edgar listened to the account with the most unaffected dismay and represented the probable danger and actual impropriety of such an intercourse in the strongest and most eloquent terms but he could neither appal her confidence nor subdue her esteem The openness with which all had originally and voluntarily been avowed convinced her of the innocence with which it was felt and all that his exhortations could obtain was a remonstrance on her own part to Mrs Berlinton
She found that lady however persuaded she indulged but an innocent friendship which she assured her was bestowed upon a person of as much honour as merit and which only with life she should relinquish since it was the sole consolation of her fettered existence
Edgar to whom this was communicated saw with terror the ascendance thus acquired over her judgment as well as her affections and became more watchful and more uneasy in observing the progress of this friendship than all the flattering devoirs of the gay Baronet or the more serious assiduities of the Major
Mrs Berlinton indeed was no common object either for fear or for hope for admiration or for censure She possessed all that was most softly attractive most bewitchingly beautiful and most irresistibly captivating in mind person and manners But to all that was thus most fascinating to others she joined unhappily all that was most dangerous for herself an heart the most susceptible sentiments the most romantic and an imagination the most exalted She had been an orphan from earliest years and left with an only brother to the care of a fanatical maiden aunt who had taught her nothing but her faith and her prayers without one single lesson upon good works or the smallest instruction upon the practical use of her theoretical piety All that ever varied these studies were some common and ill selected novels and romances which a young lady in the neighbourhood privately lent her to read till her brother upon his first vacation from the University brought her the works of the Poets These also it was only in secret she could enjoy but to her juvenile fancy and irregularly principled mind that did not render them more tasteless Whatever was most beautifully picturesque in poetry she saw verified in the charming landscapes presented to her view in the part of Wales she inhabited whatever was most noble or tender in romance she felt promptly in her heart and conceived to be general and whatever was enthusiastic in theology formed the whole of her idea and her belief with respect to religion
Brought up thus to think all things the most unusual and extraordinary were merely common and of course she was romantic without consciousness, and excentric without intention Nothing steady or rational had been instilled into her mind by others and she was too young and too fanciful to have formed her own principles with any depth of reflection or study of propriety She had entered the world by a sudden and most unequal marriage in which her choice had no part with only two selfformed maxims for the law of her conduct The first of these was that from her early notions of religion no vestal should be more personally chaste the second that from her more recently imbibed ones of tenderness her heart since she was married without its concurrence was still wholly at liberty to be disposed of by its own propensities without reproach and without scruple
With such a character where virtue had so little guide even while innocence presided where the person was so alluring and the situation so open to temptation Edgar saw with almost every species of concern the daily increasing friendship of Camilla Yet while he feared for her firmness he knew not how to blame her fondness nor where so much was amiable in its object, could he cease to wish that more were right
Thus again lived and died another week and the fourth succeeded with no actual occurrence but a new change of opinion in Mrs Arlbery that forcibly and cruelly affected the feelings of Camilla
Uninformed of the motive that occasioned the indifference with which Edgar beheld the newly awakened gallantry of Sir Sedley and the pleasure with which Camilla received it Mrs Arlbery observed his total unconcern first with surprise next with perplexity and finally with a belief he was seriously resolved against forming any connection with her himself This she took an early opportunity to intimate to Camilla warmly exhorting her to drive him fast from her mind
Camilla assured her that no task could be more easy but the disappointment of the project with respect to Sir Sedley which she blushed to have adopted hurt her in every possible direction Coquetry was as foreign to the ingenuousness of her nature as to the dignity of all her early maternal precepts She had hastily encouraged the devoirs of the Baronet upon the recommendation of a woman she loved and admired but now that the failure of her aim brought her to reflexion she felt penitent and ashamed to have heeded any advice so contrary to the singleness of the doctrines of her father and so inferior to the elevation of every sentiment she had ever heard from her mother If Edgar had seen her design he had surely seen it with contempt and though his manner was still the most gentle and his advice ever ready and friendly the opinion of Mrs Arlbery was corroborated by all her own observations that he was decidedly estranged from her
What repentance ensued what severity of regret how did she canvass her conduct how lament she had ever formed that fatal acquaintance with Mrs Arlbery which he had so early opposed and which seemed eternally destined to lead her into measures and conduct most foreign to his approbation
The melancholy that now again took possession of her spirits made her decline going abroad from a renewed determination to avoid all meetings with Edgar Mrs Arlbery felt provoked to find his power thus unabated and Sir Sedley was astonished He still saw her perpetually from his visits at Mount Pleasant but his vanity that weakest yet most predominant feature of his character received a shock for which no modesty of apprehension or forethought had prepared him in finding that when he saw her no more in the presence of Mandlebert he saw her no more the same She was ready still to converse with him but no peculiar attention was flattering no desire to oblige was pointed He found he had been merely a passive instrument in her estimation to excite jealousy and even as such had been powerless to produce that effect The raillery which Mrs Arlbery spared not upon the occasion added greatly to his pique and his mortification was so visible that Camilla perceived it and perceived it with pain with shame and with surprise She thought now for the first time that the public homage he had paid her had private and serious motives and that what she imagined mere sportive gallantry arose from a growing attachment
This idea had no gratifying power believing Edgar without care for her she could not hope it would stimulate his regard and conceiving she had herself excited the partiality by wilful civilities she could feel only reproach from a conquest unduly unfairly uningenuously obtained
In proportion as these selfupbraidings made her less deserving in her own eyes the merits of the young Baronet seemed to augment and in considering herself as culpable for having raised his regard she appeared before him with a humility that gave a softness to her look and manners which soon proved as interesting to Sir Sedley as her marked gaiety had been flattering
When she perceived this she felt distressed anew To shun him was impossible as Mrs Arlbery not only gave him completely the freedom of her house but assiduously promoted their belonging always to the same group and being seated next to each other There was nothing she would not have done to extenuate her error and to obviate its ill effect upon Sir Sedley but as she always thought herself in the wrong and regarded him as injured every effort was accompanied with a timidity that gave to every change a new charm rather than any repulsive quality
In this state of total selfdisapprobation to return to Etherington was her only wish and to pass the intermediate time with Mrs Berlinton became her sole pleasure But she was forced again into public to avoid an almost single intercourse with Sir Sedley
In meeting again with Edgar she saw him openly delighted at her sight but without the least apparent solicitude or notice that the young Baronet had passed almost the whole of the interval upon Mount Pleasant
This was instantly noticed and instantly commented upon by Mrs Arlbery who again and strongly pointed out to Camilla that to save her youth from being wasted by fruitless expectation she must forget young Mandlebert and study only her own amusement
Camilla dissented not from the opinion but the doctrine to which it was easy to agree it was difficult to put in practice and her ardent mind believed itself fettered for ever and for ever unhappy
CHAPTER XIII
Traits of Instruction
The sixth and last week destined for the Tunbridge sojourn was begun when Mrs Arlbery once more took her fair young guest apart and intreated her attention for one final half hour The time she said was fast advancing in which they must return to their respective homes but she wished to make a full and clear representation of the advantages that might be reaped from this excursion before the period for gathering them should be past
She would forbear she said entering again upon the irksome subject of the insensibility of Mandlebert which was at least sufficiently glaring to prevent any delusion But she begged leave to speak of what she believed had less obviously struck her the apparent promise of a serious attachment from Sir Sedley Clarendel
Camilla would here instantly have broken up the conversation but Mrs Arlbery insisted upon being heard
Why she asked should she wilfully destine her youth to a hopeless waste of affection and dearth of all permanent comfort To sacrifice every consideration to the honours of constancy might be soothing and even glorious in this first season of romance but a very short time would render it vapid and the epoch of repentance was always at hand to succeed With the least address or the least genuine encouragement it was now palpable she might see Sir Sedley and his title and fortune at her feet
Camilla resentfully interrupted her disclaiming with Sir Sedley as with everyone else all possibility of alliance from motives so degrading and persisted in declaring that the most moderate subsistence with freedom would be preferable to the most affluent obtained by any mercenary engagement
Mrs Arlbery desired her to recollect that Sir Sedley though rich even to splendour was so young so gay so handsome and so pleasant that she might safely honour him with her hand yet run no risk of being supposed to have made a merely interested alliance I throw out this she cried in conclusion for your deepest consideration but I must press it no further Sir Sedley is evidently charmed with you at present and his vanity is so potent and like all vanity so easily assailable that the smallest food to it adroitly administered would secure him your slave for life and rescue you from the antediluvian courtship of a man who if he marries at all is so deliberate in his progress that he must reach his grand climacteric before he can reach the altar
Far from meditating upon this discourse with any view to following its precepts Camilla found it necessary to call all her original fondness for Mrs Arlbery to her aid to forgive the plainness of her attack or the worldliness of her notions and all that rested upon her mind for consideration was her belief in the serious regard of Sir Sedley which as she apprehended it to be the work of her own designed exertions she could only think of with contrition
These ruminations were interrupted by a call down stairs to see a learned bullfinch The Dennels and Sir Sedley were present she met the eyes of the latter with a sensation of shame that quickly deepened her whole face with crimson He did not behold it without emotion and experienced a strong curiosity to define its exact cause
He addressed himself to her with the most marked distinction she could scarcely answer him but her manner was even touchingly gentle Sir Sedley could not restrain himself from following her in every motion by his eyes he felt an interest concerning her that surprised him he began to doubt if it had been indifference which caused her late change her softness helped his vanity to recover its tone and her confusion almost confirmed him that Mrs Arlbery had been mistaken in rallying his failure of rivalry with Mandlebert
The bird sung various little airs upon certain words of command and mounted his highest and descended to his lowest perch and made whatever evolutions were within the circumference of his limited habitation with wonderful precision
Camilla however was not more pleased by his adroitness than pained to observe the severe aspect with which his keeper issued his orders She inquired by what means he had obtained such authority
The man with a significant wag of the head brutally answered By the true old way Miss I licks him
Lick him repeated she with disgust how is it possible you can beat such a poor delicate little creature
O easy enough Miss replied the man grinning everythings the better for a little beating as I tells my wife Theres nothing so fine set Miss but what will bear it more or less
Sir Sedley asked with what he could strike it that would not endanger its life
Thats telling sir cried the man with a sneer howbeit weve plenty of ill luck in the trade No want of that For one that I rears I loses six or seven And sometimes they be so plaguy sulky they tempt me to give em a knock a little matter too hard and then theyll fall you into a fit like and go off in a twinkle
And how can you have the cruelty cried Camilla indignantly to treat in such a manner a poor little inoffensive animal who does not understand what you require
O yes a does miss they knows what I wants as well as I do myself only theyre so dead tiresome at being shy Why now this one here as does all his larning to satisfaction just now mayhap wont do nothing at all by an hour or two Why sometimes you may pinch em to a mummy before you can make em budge
Pinch them exclaimed she do you ever pinch them
Do I Ay miss Why how do you think one larns them dumb creturs It dont come to em natural They are main dull of themselves This one as you see here would do nothing at all if he was not afraid of a tweak
Poor unhappy little thing cried she I hope at least now it has learnt so much its sufferings are over
Yes yes hes pretty well off I always gives him his fill when hes done his days work But a little squeak now and then in the intrum does em no harm Theyre mortal cunning Ones forced to be pretty tough with em
How should I rejoice cried Camilla to rescue this one poor unoffending and oppressed little animal from such tyranny Then taking out her purse she desired to know what he would have for it
The man as a very great favour said he would take ten guineas though it would be his ruin to part with it as it was all his livelihood but he was willing to oblige the young lady
Camilla with a constrained laugh but a very natural blush put up her purse and said Thou must linger on then in captivity thou poor little undeserving sufferer for I cannot help thee
Every body protested that ten guineas was an imposition and the man offered to part with it for five
Camilla who had imagined it would have cost half a guinea was now more ashamed because equally incapable to answer such a demand she declined therefore the composition and the man was dismissed
At night when she returned to her own room from the play she saw the little bullfinch reposing in a superb cage upon her table
Delighted first and next perplexed she flew to Mrs Arlbery and inquired whence it came
Mrs Arlbery was as much amazed as herself
Questions were then asked of the servants but none knew or none would own how the bird became thus situated
Camilla could not now doubt but Sir Sedley had given this commission to his servant who could easily place the cage in her room from his constant access to the house She was enchanted to see the little animal relieved from so painful a life but hesitated not a moment in resolving to refuse its acceptance
When Sir Sedley came the next day she carried it down and with a smile of open pleasure thanked him for giving her so much share in his generous liberality and asked if he could take it home with him in his carriage or if she should send it to his hotel
Sir Sedley was disappointed yet felt the propriety of her delicacy and her spirit He did not deny the step he had taken but told her that having hastily from the truth of reflection her compassion had awakened ordered his servant to follow the man and buy the bird he had forgotten till it arrived his incapability of taking care of it His valet was as little at home as himself and there was small chance at an inn that any maid would so carefully watch as to prevent its falling a prey to the many cats with which it was swarming He hoped therefore till their return to Hampshire she would take charge of a little animal that owed its deliverance from slavery to her pitying comments
Camilla instinctively would with unfeigned joy have accepted such a trust but she thought she saw something archly significant in the eye of Mrs Arlbery and therefore stammered out she was afraid she should herself be too little at home to secure its safety
Sir Sedley looking extremely blank said it would be better to redeliver it to the man brute as he was than to let it be unprotected but where generosity touched Camilla reflection ever flew her and off all guard at such an idea she exclaimed she would rather relinquish going out again while at Tunbridge than render his humanity abortive and ran off precipitately with the bird to her chamber
Mrs Arlbery soon following praised her behaviour and said she had sent the Baronet away perfectly happy
Camilla much provoked would now have had the bird conveyed after him but Mrs Arlbery assured her inconsistency in a woman was as flattering as in a man it was tedious and alarming and persuaded her to let the matter rest
Her mind however did not rest at the same time in the evening when the Baronet met them at the Rooms he was not only unusually gay but looked at her with an air and manner that seemed palpably to mark her as the cause of his satisfaction
In the deepest disturbance she considered herself now to be in a difficulty the most delicate she could not come forward to clear it up without announcing expectations from his partiality which he had never authorised by any declaration nor yet suffer such symptoms of his believing it welcome to pass unnoticed without risking the reproach of using him ill when she made known at a later period her indifference
Mrs Arlbery would not aid her for she thought the embarrassment might lead to a termination the most fortunate To consult with Edgar was her first wish but how open such a subject The very thought however gave her an air of solicitude when he spoke to her that struck him and he watched for an opportunity to say You have not I hope forgotten my province May I in my permitted office ask a few questions
O yes cried she with alacrity And when they are asked and when I have answered them if you should not be too much tired may I ask some in my turn
Of me cried he with the most gratified surprise
Not concerning yourself answered she blushing but upon something which a little distresses me
When and where may it be cried he while a thousand conjectures rapidly succeeded to each other may I call upon Mrs Arlbery tomorrow morning
O no we shall be I suppose here again at night she answered dreading arranging a visit Mrs Arlbery would treat she knew with raillery the most unmerciful
There was time for no more as that lady suddenly tired led the way to the carriage Edgar followed her to the door hoping and fearing at once every thing that was most interesting from a confidence so voluntary and so unexpected
Camilla was still more agitated for though uncertain if she were right or wrong in the appeal she meant to make to converse with him openly to be guided by his counsel and to convince him of her superiority to all mercenary allurements were pleasures to make her look forward to the approaching conference with almost trembling delight
CHAPTER XIV
A Demander
The next night as the carriage was at the door and the party preparing for the Rooms the name of Mr Tyrold was announced and Lionel entered the parlour
His manner was hurried though he appeared gay and frisky as usual Camilla felt a little alarmed but Mrs Arlbery asked if he would accompany them
With all his heart he answered only he must first have a moments chat with his sister Then saying they should have a letter to write together he called for a pen and ink and was taking her into another apartment when Mr Dennel objected to letting his horses wait
Send them back for us then cried Lionel with his customary ease and we will follow you
Mr Dennel again objected to making his horses so often mount the hill but Lionel assuring him nothing was so good for them ran on with so many farrier words and phrases of the benefit they would reap from such light evening exercise that persuaded he was master of the subject Mr Dennel submitted and the brother and sister were left têteàtête
At any other time Camilla would have proposed giving up the Rooms entirely but her desire to see Edgar and the species of engagement she had made with him counterbalanced every inconvenience
My dear girl said Lionel I am come to beg a favour You see this pen and ink Give me a sheet of paper
She fetched him one
Thats a good child cried he patting her cheek so now sit down and write a short letter for me Come begin Dear Sir
She wrote—Dear Sir
An unforeseen accident—write on—an unforeseen accident has reduced me to immediate distress for two hundred pounds
Camilla let her pen drop and rising said Lionel is this possible
Very possible my dear You know I told you I wanted another hundred before you left Cleves So you must account it only as one hundred in fact at present
O Lionel Lionel cried Camilla clasping her hands with a look of more remonstrance than any words she durst utter
Wont you write the letter said he pretending not to observe her emotion
To whom is it to be addressed
My uncle to be sure my dear What can you be thinking of Are you in love Camilla
My uncle again no Lionel no—I have solemnly engaged myself to apply to him no more
That was for me my dear but where can your thoughts be wandering Why you must ask for this as if it were for yourself
For myself
Yes certainly You know he wont give it else
Impossible what should I want two hundred pounds for
O a thousand things say you must have some new gowns and caps and hats and petticoats and all those kind of gear There is not the least difficulty you can easily persuade him they are all worn out at such a place as this Besides Ill tell you what is still better say youve been robbed hell soon believe it for he thinks all public places filled with sharpers
Now you relieve me said she with a sort of fearful smile for I am sure you cannot be serious You must be very certain I would not deceive or delude my uncle for a million of worlds
You know nothing of life child nothing at all However if you wont say that tell him its for a secret purpose At least you can do that And then you can make him understand he must ask no questions about the matter The money is all we want from him
This is so idle Lionel that I hope you speak it for mere nonsense Who could demand such a sum and refuse to account for its purpose
Account my dear Does being an uncle give a man a right to be impertinent If it does marry out of hand yourself theres a good girl and have a family at once that I may share the same privilege I shall like it of all things who will you have
Pho pho
Major Cerwood
No never
I once thought Edgar Mandlebert had a sneaking kindness for you But I believe it is gone off Or else I was out
This was not an observation to exhilarate her spirits She sighed but Lionel concluding himself the cause begged her not to be lowspirited but to write the letter at once
She assured him she could never again consent to interfere in his unreasonable requests
He was undone then he said for he could not live without the money
Rather say not with it cried she for you keep nothing
Nobody does my dear we all go on the same way nowadays
And what do you mean to be the end of it all Lionel How do you purpose living when all these resources are completely exhausted
When I am ruined you mean why how do other people live when theyre ruined I can but do the same though I have not much considered the matter
Do consider it then dear Lionel for all our sakes do consider it
Well—let us see
O I dont mean so I dont mean just now in this mere idle manner—
O yes Ill do it at once and then it will be over Faith I dont well know I have no great gusta for blowing out my brains I like the little dears mighty well where they are And I cant say I shall much relish to consume my life and prime and vigour in the kings bench prison Tis horribly tiresome to reside always on the same spot Nor I have no great disposition to whisk off to another country Old Englands a pretty place enough I like it very well with a little rhino understood But its the very deuce with an empty purse So write the letter my dear girl
And is this your consideration Lionel And is this its conclusion
Why what signifies dwelling upon such dismalties If I think upon my ruin beforehand I am no nearer to enjoyment now than then Live while we live my dear girl I hate prophesying horrors Write I say write
Again she absolutely refused pleading her promise to her uncle and declaring she would keep her word
Keep a fiddlestick cried he impatiently you dont know what mischief you may have to answer for you may bring misery upon all our heads you may make my father banish me his sight you may make my mother execrate me—
Good Heaven cried Camilla interrupting him what is it you talk of what is it you mean
Just what I say and to make you understand me better Ill give you a hint of the truth but you must lose your life twenty times before you reveal it—Theres—theres—do you hear me—theres a pretty girl in the case
A pretty girl—And what has that to do with this rapacity for money
What an innocent question why what a baby thou art my dear Camilla
I hope you are not forming any connexion unknown to my father
Ha ha ha cried Lionel laughing loud Why thou hast lived in that old parsonagehouse till thou art almost too young to be rocked in a cradle
If you are entering into any engagement said she still more gravely that my father must not know and that my mother would so bitterly condemn—why am I to be trusted with it
You understand nothing of these things child Tis the very nature of a father to be an hunks and of a mother to be a bore
O Lionel such a father—such a mother—
As to their being perfectly good and all that I know it very well And I am very sorry for it A good father is a very serious misfortune to a poor lad like me as the world runs it causes one such confounded gripes of the conscience for every little awkward thing one does A bad father would be the joy of my life twould be all fair play there the more he was choused the better
But this pretty girl Lionel—Are you serious Are you really engaging yourself And is she so poor Is she so much distressed that you require these immense and frequent sums for her
Lionel laughed again and rubbed his hands but after a short silence assumed a more steady countenance and said Dont ask me any thing about her It is not fit you should be so curious And dont give a hint of the matter to a soul Mind that But as to the money I must have it And directly I shall be blown to the deuce else
Lionel cried Camilla shrinking you make me tremble you cannot surely be so wicked so unprincipled No your connexions are never worse than imprudent—you would not else be so unkind so injurious as to place in me such a confidence
The whole face of Lionel now flashed with shame and he walked about the room muttering Tis true I ought not to have done it And soon after with still greater concern he exclaimed If this appears to you in such a heinous light what will my father think of it And how can I bear to let it be known to my mother
O never never cried she emphatically never let it reach the knowledge of either If indeed you have been so inconsiderate and so wrong—break up at least any such intercourse before it offends their ears
But how my dear can I do that if it gets blazed abroad
Blazed abroad
Yes and for want only of a few pitiful guineas
What can you mean How can it depend upon a few guineas
Get me the guineas—and leave the how to me
My dear Lionel cried she affectionately I would do any thing that is not absolutely improper to serve you but my uncle has now nothing more to spare he has told me so himself and with what courage then in this dark mysterious and I fear worse than mysterious business can I apply to him
My dear child he only wants to hoard up his money to shew off poor Eugenia at her marriage and you know as well as I do what a ninny he is for his pains for what a poor little dowdy thing will she look dizened out in jewels and laces
Can you speak so of Eugenia the most amiable the most deserving the most excellent creature breathing
I speak it in pure friendship I would not have her exposed I love dear little Greek and Latin as well as you do Only the difference is I dont talk so like an old woman and really when you do it yourself you cant think the ridiculous effect it has when one looks at your young face However only write the request as if from yourself and tell him youll acquaint him with the reason next letter but that the post is just going out now and you have time for no more And then just coax him over a little with how you long to be back and how you hate Tunbridge and how you adore Cleves and how tired you are for want of his bright conversation—and you may command half his fortune—My dear Camilla you dont know from what destruction you will rescue me Think too of my father and what a shock you will save him And think of my mother whom I can never see again if you wont help me
Camilla sighed but let him put the pen into her hand whence however the very next moments reflection was urging her to cast it down when he caught her in his arms in a transport of joy called her his protectress from dishonour and despair and said he would run to the Rooms while she wrote just to take the opportunity of seeing them and to unorder the carriage that she might have no interruption to her composition which he would come back to claim before the party returned as he must set off for Cleves and gallop all night to procure the money which the loss of a single day would render useless
All this he uttered with a rapidity that mocked every attempt at expostulation or answer and then ran out of the room and out of the house
Horrour at such perpetual and increasing ill conduct grief at the compulsive failure of meeting Edgar and perplexity how to extricate herself from her half given but wholly seized upon engagement to write took for a while nearly equally shares in tormenting Camilla But all presently concentred in one domineering sentiment of sharp repentance for what she had apparently undertaken
To claim two hundred pounds of her uncle in her own name was out of all question She could not even a moment dwell upon such a project but how represent what she herself so little understood as the necessity of Lionel or how ask for so large a sum and postpone as he desired all explanation She was incapable of any species of fraud she detested even the most distant disguise Simple supplication seemed therefore her only method but so difficult was even this in an affair so dark and unconscionable that she began twenty letters without proceeding in any one of them beyond two lines
Thus far however her task was light to what it appeared to her upon a little further deliberation That her brother had formed some unworthy engagement or attachment he had not indeed avowed clearly but he had by no means denied and she had even omitted in her surprise and consternation exacting his promise that it should immediately be concluded What then might she be doing by endeavouring to procure this money Aiding perhaps vice and immorality and assisting her misguided if not guilty brother to persevere in the most dangerous errors if not crimes
She shuddered she pushed away her paper she rose from the table she determined not to write another word
Yet to permit parents she justly revered to suffer any evil she had the smallest chance to spare them was dreadful to her and what evil could be inflicted upon them so deeply so lastingly severe as the conviction of any serious vices in any of their children
This for one minute brought her again to the table but the next her better judgment pointed out the shallowness and fallacy of such reasoning To save them present pain at the risk of future anguish to consult the feelings of her brother in preference to his morality would be forgetting every lesson of her life which from its earliest dawn had imbibed a love of virtue that made her consider whatever was offensive to it as equally disgusting and unhappy
To disappoint Lionel was however terrible She knew well he would be deaf to remonstrance ridicule all argument and laugh off whatever she could urge by persuasion She feared he would be quite outrageous to find his expectations thus thwarted and the lateness of the hour when he would hear it and the weight he annexed to obtaining the money expeditiously redoubled at once her regret for her momentary compliance and her pity for what he would undergo through its failure
After considering in a thousand ways how to soften to him her recantation she found herself so entirely without courage to encounter his opposition that she resolved to write him a short letter and then retire to her room to avoid an interview
In this she besought him to forgive her error in not sooner being sensible of her duty which had taught her upon her first reflexion the impossibility of demanding two hundred pounds for herself who wanted nothing and the impracticability of demanding it for him in so unintelligible a manner
Thus far only she had proceeded from the length of time consumed in regret and rumination when a violent ringing at the door without the sound of any carriage made her start up and fly to her chamber leaving her unfinished letter with the beginnings of her several essays to address Sir Hugh upon the table to shew her various efforts and to explain that they were relinquished
CHAPTER XV
An Accorder
Thus selfconfined and almost in an agony Camilla remained for a quarter of an hour without any species of interruption and in the greatest amazement that Lionel forbore pursuing her either with letter or message
Another violent ringing at the bell but still without any carriage then excited her attention and presently the voice and steps of Lionel resounded upon the stairs whence her name was with violence vociferated
She did not move and in another minute he was rapping at her chamber door demanding admittance or that she would instantly descend
Alarmed for her open letter and papers she inquired who was in the parlour
Not a soul he answered I have left them all at the Rooms
Have you returned then twice
No I should have been here sooner but I met two or three old cronies that would not part with me Come wheres your letter
Have you not seen what I have written
Down upon this intimation he flew without any reply but was presently back saying he found nothing in the parlour except a letter to herself
Affrighted she followed him but not one of her papers remained The table was cleared and nothing was to be seen but a large packet addressed to her in a hand she did not know
She rang to inquire who had been in the house before her brother
The servant answered only Sir Sedley Clarendel who he thought had been there still as he had said he should wait till Mrs Arlbery came home
Is it possible cried she that a gentleman such as Sir Sedley Clarendel can have permitted himself to touch my papers
Lionel agreed that it was shocking but said the loss of time to himself was still worse without suffering her therefore to open her packet he insisted that she should write another letter directly adding he had met the Baronet in his way from the Rooms but had little suspected whence he came or how he had been amusing himself
Camilla now hung about her brother in the greatest tribulation but refused to take the pen he would have put into her hands and at last not without tears said Forgive me Lionel but the papers you ought to have found would have explained—that I cannot write for you to my uncle
Lionel heard this with the indignation of an injured man He was utterly he said lost and his family would be utterly disgraced for ruin must be the lot of his father or exile or imprisonment must be his own if she persisted in such unkind and unnatural conduct
Terrour now bereft her of all speech or motion till the letter which Lionel had been beating about in his agitation without knowing or caring what he was doing burst open and some written papers fell to the floor which she recognised for her own
Much amazed she seized the cover which had only been fastened by a wafer that was still wet and saw a letter within it to herself which she hastily read while a paper that was enclosed dropt down and was caught by Lionel
To Miss Camilla Tyrold
Forgive fairest Camilla the work of the Destinies I came hither to see if illness detained you the papers which I enclose from other curious eyes caught mine by accident The pathetic sisterly address has touched me I have not the honour to know Mr Lionel Tyrold let our acquaintance begin with an act of confidence on his part that must bind to him for ever his lovely sisters
Most obedient and devoted
Sedley Clarendel
The loose paper picked up by Lionel was a draft upon a banker for two hundred pounds
While this with speechless emotion was perused by Camilla Lionel with unbounded joy began jumping skipping leaping over every chair and capering round and round the room in an ecstasy
My dearest Lionel cried she when a little recovered why such joy you cannot suppose it possible this can be accepted
Not accepted child do you think me out of my senses Dont you see me freed from all my misfortunes at once and neither my father grieved nor my mother offended nor poor numps fleeced
And when can you pay it And what do you mean to do And to whom will be the obligation Weigh weigh a little all this
Lionel heard her not his rapture was too buoyant for attention and he whisked every thing out of its place from frantic merriment till he put the apartment into so much disorder that it was scarce practicable to stir a step in it now and then interrupting himself to make her low bows scraping his feet all over the room and obsequiously saying My sister Clarendel How does your Laship do my dear Lady Clarendel pray afford me your Laships countenance
Nothing could be less pleasant to Camilla than raillery which pointed out that even by the unreflecting Lionel this action could be ascribed to but one motive The draft however had fallen into his hands and neither remonstrance nor petition neither representation of impropriety nor persuasion could induce him to relinquish it he would only dance sing and pay her grotesque homage till the coach stopt at the door and then ludicrously hoping her Ladyship would excuse his leaving her for once to play the part of the housemaid in setting the room to rights he sprang past them all and bounded down the hill
Mrs Arlbery was much diverted by the confusion in the parlour and Miss Dennel asked a thousand questions why the chairs and tables were all thrown down the china jars removed from the chimneypiece into the middle of the room and the sideboard apparatus put on the chimneypiece in their stead
Camilla was too much confounded either to laugh or explain and hastily wishing them goodnight retired to her chamber
Here in the extremest perturbation she saw the full extent of her difficulties without perceiving any means of extrication She had no hope of recovering the draft from Lionel whom she had every reason to conclude already journeying from Tunbridge What could she say the next day to Sir Sedley How account for so sudden so gross an acceptance of pecuniary obligation What inference might he not draw And how could she undeceive him while retaining so improper a mark of his dependence upon her favour The displeasure she felt that he should venture to suppose she would owe to him such a debt rendered but still more palpable the species of expectation it might authorise
To destroy this illusion occupied all her attention except what was imperiously seized upon by regret of missing Edgar with whom to consult was more than ever her wish
In this disturbed state when she saw Mrs Arlbery the next morning her whole care was to avoid being questioned and that lady who quickly perceived her fears by her avoidance took the first opportunity to say to her with a laugh I see I must make no inquiries into the gambols of your brother last night but I may put together perhaps certain circumstances that may give me a little light to the business and if as I conjecture Clarendel spoke out to him his wildest rioting is more rational than his sisters gravity
Camilla protested they had not conversed together at all
Nay then I own myself still in the dark But I observed that Clarendel left the Rooms at a very early hour and that your brother almost immediately followed
Camilla ventured not any reply and soon after retreated
Mrs Arlbery in a few minutes pursuing her laughingly and with sportive reproach accused her of intending to steal a march to the altar of Hymen as she had just been informed by her maid that Sir Sedley had actually been at the house last night during her absence
Camilla seriously assured her that she was in her chamber when he arrived and had not seen him
For what in the world then could he come He was sure I was not at home for he had left me at the Rooms
Camilla again was silent but her tingling cheeks proclaimed it was not for want of something to say Mrs Arlbery forbore to press the matter further but forbore with a nod that implied I see how it is and a smile that published the pleasure and approbation which accompanied her selfconviction
The vexation of Camilla would have prompted an immediate confession of the whole mortifying transaction had she not been endued with a sense of honour where the interests of others were concerned that repressed her natural precipitance and was more powerful even than her imprudence
She waited the greatest part of the morning in some little faint hope of seeing Lionel but he came not and she spent the rest of it with Mrs Berlinton She anxiously wished to meet Edgar in the way to apologise for her nonappearance the preceding evening but this did not happen and her concern was not lessened by reflecting upon the superior interest in her health and welfare marked by Sir Sedley who had taken the trouble to walk from the Rooms to Mount Pleasant to see what was become of her
She returned home but barely in time to dress for dinner and was not yet ready when she saw the carriage of the Baronet drive up to the door
In the most terrible confusion how to meet him what to say about the draft how to mention her brother whether to seem resentful of the liberty he had so unceremoniously taken or thankful for its kindness she had scarce the force to attire herself nor when summoned down stairs to descend
This distress was but increased upon her entrance by the sight and the behaviour of the Baronet whose address to her was so marked that it covered her with blushes and whose air had an assurance that spoke a species of secret triumph Offended as well as frightened she looked every way to avoid him or assumed a look of haughtiness when forced by any direct speech to answer him She soon however saw by his continued selfcomplacency and even an increase of gaiety that he only regarded this as coquetry or bashful embarrassment since every time she attempted thus to rebuff him an arch smile stole over his features that displayed his different conception of her meaning
She now wished nothing so much as a prompt and positive declaration that she might convince him of his mistake and her rejection For this purpose she subdued her desire of retreat and spent the whole afternoon with Mrs Arlbery and the Dennels in his company
Nevertheless when Mrs Arlbery who had the same object in view though with a different conclusion contrived to draw her other guests out of the apartment and to leave her alone with Sir Sedley modesty and shame both interfered with her desire of an explanation and she was hastily retiring but the Baronet in a gentle voice called after her Are you going
Yes I have forgotten something
He rose to follow her with a motion that seemed purporting to take her hand but gliding quickly on she prevented him and was almost at the same moment in her own chamber
With augmented severity she now felt the impropriety of an apparent acceptance of so singular and unpleasant an obligation which obviously misled Sir Sedley to believe her at his command
Shocked in her delicacy and stung in her best notions of laudable pride she could not rest without destroying this humiliating idea and resolved to apply to Edgar for the money and to pay the Baronet the next day Her objections to betraying the extravagance of Lionel though great and sincere yielded to the still more dangerous evil of letting Sir Sedley continue in an errour that might terminate in branding her in his opinion with a character of inconsistency or duplicity
Edgar too so nearly a brother to them both would guard the secret of Lionel better in all probability than he would guard it himself and could draw no personal inferences from the trust and obligation when he found its sole incitement was sooner to owe an obligation to a ward of her father than to a new acquaintance of her own
Pleased at the seeming necessity of an application that would lead so naturally to a demand of the counsel she languished to claim she determined not to suffer Sir Sedley to wait even another minute under his mistake but since she now could speak of returning the money to take courage for meeting what might either precede or ensue in a conference
Down therefore she went but as she opened the parlour door she heard Sir Sedley say to Mrs Arlbery who had just entered before her O fie fie you know she will be cruel to excruciation you know me destined to despair to the last degree
Camilla whose so speedy reappearance was the last sight he expected was too far advanced to retreat and the resentment that tinged her whole complexion shewed she had heard what he said and had heard it with an application the most offensive
An immediate sensibility to his own impertinence now succeeded in its vain display he looked not merely concerned but contrite and in a voice softened nearly to timidity attempted a general conversation but kept his eyes with an anxious expression almost continually fixed upon hers
Anger with Camilla was a quick but shortlived sensation and this sudden change in the Baronet from conceit to respect produced a change equally sudden in herself from disdain to inquietude Though mortified in the first moment by his vanity it was less seriously painful to her than any belief that under it was couched a disposition towards a really steady regard With Mrs Arlbery she was but slightly offended though certain she had been assuring him of all the success he could demand her way of thinking upon the subject had been openly avowed and she did justice to the kindness of her motives
No opportunity however arose to mention the return of the draft Mrs Arlbery saw displeasure in her air and not doubting she had heard what had dropt from Sir Sedley thought the moment unfavorable for a têteàtête and resolutely kept her place till Camilla herself weary of useless waiting left the room
Following her then to her chamber My dear Miss Tyrold she cried do not let your extreme youth stand in the way of all your future life A Baronet rich young and amiable is upon the very point of becoming your slave for ever yet because you discover him to be a little restive in the last agonies of his liberty you are eager in the highflown disdain of juvenile susceptibility to cast him and his fortune away as if both were such everyday baubles that you might command or reject them without thought of future consequence
Indeed no dear madam I am not actuated by pride or anger I owe too much to Sir Sedley to feel either above a moment even where I think them pardon me justly excited But I should ill pay my debt by accepting a lasting attachment where certain I can return nothing but lasting eternal unchangeable indifference
You sacrifice then both him and yourself to the fanciful delicacy of a first love
No indeed cried she blushing I have no thought at all but of the single life And I sincerely hope Sir Sedley has no serious intentions towards me for my obligations to him are so infinite I should be cruelly hurt to appear to him ungrateful
You would appear to him I confess a little surprising said Mrs Arlbery laughing for diffidence certainly is not his weak part However with all his foibles he is a charming creature and prepossession only can blind you to his merit
Camilla again denied the charge and strove to prevail with her to undeceive the Baronet from any false expectations But she protested she would not be accessary to so much afterrepentance and left her
The business now wore a very serious aspect to Camilla Mrs Arlbery avowed she thought Sir Sedley in earnest and he knew she had herself heard him speak with security of his success The bullfinch had gone far but the draft seemed to have riveted the persuasion The bird it was now impossible to return till her departure from Tunbridge but she resolved not to defer another moment putting upon her brother alone the obligation of the draft to stop the further progress of such dangerous inference
Hastily therefore she wrote to him the following note
To Sir Sedley Clarendel Bart
Sir
Some particular business compelled my brother so abruptly to quit Tunbridge that he could not have the honour to first wait upon you with his thanks for the loan you so unexpectedly put into his hands by mine however all will be restored tomorrow morning except his gratitude for your kindness
I am sir in both our names
your obliged humble servant
Camilla Tyrold
Mount Pleasant
Thursday Evening
She now waited till she was summoned down stairs to the carriage and then gave her little letter to a servant whom she desired to deliver it to Sir Sedleys man
Sir Sedley did not accompany them to the Rooms but promised to follow
Camilla on her arrival with palpitating pleasure looked round for Edgar She did not however see him She was accosted directly by the Major who as usual never left her and whose assiduity to seek her favour seemed increased
She next joined Mrs Berlinton but still she saw nothing of Edgar Her eyes incessantly looked towards the door but the object they sought never met them
When Sir Sedley entered he joined the group of Mrs Berlinton
Camilla tried to look at him and to speak to him with her customary civility and chearfulness and nearly succeeded while in him she observed only an expressive attention without any marks of presumption
Thus began and thus ended the evening Edgar never appeared
Camilla was in the utmost amaze and deepest vexation Why did he stay away was his wrath so great at her own failure the preceding night that he purposely avoided her what also could she do with Sir Sedley how meet him the next morning without the draft she had now promised
In this state of extreme chagrin when she retired to her chamber she found the following letter upon her table
To Miss Camilla Tyrold
Can you think of such a trifle or deem wealth so truly contemptible as to deny it all honourable employment Ah rather enchanting Camilla deign further to aid me in dispensing it worthily
Sedley Clarendel
Camilla now was touched penetrated and distressed beyond what she had been in any former time She looked upon this letter as a positive intimation of the most serious designs and all his good qualities as painted by Mrs Arlbery with the very singular obligation she owed to him rose up formidably to support the arguments and remonstrances of that lady though every feeling of her heart every sentiment of her mind and every wish of her soul opposed their smallest weight
CHAPTER XVI
An Helper
The next morning as Camilla had accompanied Mrs Arlbery in earnest discourse from her chamber to the hall she heard the postman say Miss Tyrold as he gave in a letter She seized it saw the handwriting of Lionel and ran eagerly into the parlour which was empty to read it in some hopes it would at least contain an acknowledgment of the draft that might be shewn to Sir Sedley and relieve her from the pain of continuing the principal in such an affair
The letter however was merely a sportive rhapsody beginning My dear Lady Clarendel desiring her favour and protection and telling her he had done what he could for her honour by adding two trophies to the victorious car of Hymen driven by the happy Baronet
Wholly at a loss how to act she sat ruminating over this letter till Mrs Arlbery opened the door Having no time to fold it and dreading her seeing the first words she threw her handkerchief which was then in her hand over it upon the table hoping presently to draw it away unperceived
My dear friend said Mrs Arlbery I am glad to see you a moment alone Do you know any thing of Mandlebert
No answered she affrighted lest any evil had happened
Did he not take leave of you at the Rooms the other night
Leave of me is he gone any where
He has left Tunbridge
Camilla remained stupified
Left it she continued without the poor civility of a call to ask if you had any letters or messages for Hampshire
Camilla coloured high she felt to her heart this evident coldness and she knew it to be still more marked than Mrs Arlbery could divine for he was aware she wished particularly to speak with him and though she had failed in her appointment he had not inquired why
And this is the man for whom you would relinquish all mankind this is the grateful character who is to render you insensible to every body
The disturbed mind of Camilla needed not this speech her debt to Sir Sedley cast wholly upon herself by the thoughtless Lionel her inability to pay it the impressive lines the Baronet had addressed to her and the cruel and pointed indifference of Edgar all forcibly united to make her wish at this moment her heart at her own disposal
In a few minutes the voice of Sir Sedley gaily singing caught her ear He was entering the hall the street door being open She started up Mrs Arlbery would have detained her but she could not endure to encounter him and without returning his salutation or listening to his address crossed him in the hall and flew up stairs
There however she had scarcely taken breath when she recollected the letter which she had left upon the table and which the afflicting intelligence that Edgar had quitted Tunbridge had made her forget she had received In a terror immeasurable lest her handkerchief should be drawn aside and betray the first line she redescended the stairs and hastily entered the room Her shock was then inexpressible The handkerchief which her own quick motion in retiring had displaced was upon the floor the letter was in full view the eyes of Sir Sedley were fixed upon his own name with a look indefinable between pleasure and impertinence and Mrs Arlbery was laughing with all her might
She seized the letter and was running away with it when Mrs Arlbery slipt out of the room and Sir Sedley shutting the door half archly half tenderly repeated from the letter My dear Lady Clarendel
In a perfect agony she hid her face exclaiming O Lionel my foolish cruel brother
Not foolish not cruel I think him cried Sir Sedley taking her hand but amiable he has done honour to my name and he will use it I hope henceforth as his own
Forget forget his flippancy cried she withdrawing impatiently her hand and pardon his sisters breach of engagement for this morning I hope soon very soon to repair it and I hope
She did not know what to add she stopt stammered and then endeavoured to make her retreat
Do not go cried he gently detaining her incomparable Camilla I have a thousand things to say to you Will you not hear them
No cried she disengaging herself no no no I can hear nothing
Do you fascinate then said he half reproachfully like the rattlesnake only to destroy
Camilla conceived this as alluding to her recent encouragement and stood trembling with expectation it would be followed by a claim upon her justice
But Sir Sedley who was far from any meaning so pointed lightly added What thus agitates the fairest of creatures can she fear a poor captive entangled in the witchery of her loveliness and only the more enslaved the more he struggles to get free
Let me go cried she eager to stop him I beseech you Sir Sedley
All beauteous Camilla said he retreating yet still so as to intercept her passage I am bound to submit but when may I see you again
At any time replied she hastily only let me pass now
At any time adorable Camilla be it then tonight be it this evening be it at noon be it
No no no no cried she panting with shame and alarm I do not mean at any time I spoke without thought I mean
Speak so ever and anon cried he if thought is my enemy This evening then
He stopt as if irresolute how to finish his phrase but soon added Adieu till this evening adieu and opened the door for her to pass
Triumph sat in his eye exultation spoke in every feature yet his voice betrayed constraint and seemed checked as if from fear of entrusting it with his sentiments The fear however was palpably not of diffidence with respect to Camilla but of indecision with regard to himself
Camilla almost sinking with shame now hung back from a dread of leaving him in this dangerous delusion She sat down and in a faltering voice said Sir Sedley hear me I beg
Hear you cried he gallantly casting himself at her feet yes from the fervid rays of the sun to the mild lustre of the moon from
A loud knock at the street door and a ringing at the same time at the bell made him rise meaning to shut again the door of the parlour but he was prevented by the entrance of a man into the hall calling out in a voice that reached to every part of the house An express for Miss Camilla Tyrold
Camilla started up concluding it some strange intelligence concerning Edgar But a letter was put into her hand and she saw it was the writing of Lavinia
It was short but most affectionate It told her that news was just arrived from the Continent which gave reason for hourly expectation of their cousin Lynmere at Cleves in consequence of which Sir Hugh was assembling all the family to receive him She was then with her father going thither from Etherington where the restored health of her uncle had for a week past enabled them to reside and she was ordered to send off an express to Tunbridge to beg Camilla would prepare immediately for the postchaise of Sir Hugh which would be sent for her with the Cleves housekeeper and reach Mount Pleasant within a few hours after this notice
A hundred questions assailed Camilla when she had run over this letter the noise of the express having brought Mrs Arlbery and the Dennels into the parlour
She produced the letter and putting it in the hands of Mrs Arlbery relieved her painful confusion by quitting the room without again meeting the eyes of Sir Sedley
She could make no preparation however for her journey from mingled desire and fear of an explanation with the Baronet before her departure
Again therefore in a few minutes she went down gathering courage from the horror of a mistake that might lead to so much mischief
She found only Mrs Arlbery in the parlour
Involuntarily staring Where she cried is Sir Sedley
He is gone answered Mrs Arlbery laughing at her earnestness but no doubt you will soon see him at Cleves
Then I am undone cried she bursting into tears and running back to her chamber
Mrs Arlbery instantly followed and kindly inquired what disturbed her
O Mrs Arlbery she cried lend me I beseech you some aid and spare me in pity your raillery Sir Sedley I fear greatly mistakes me set him right I conjure you
Me my dear and do you think if some happy fatality is at work at this moment to force you to your good I will come forth like your evil genius to counteract its operations
I must write then yet in this haste this confusion I fear to involve rather than extricate myself
Ay write by all means there is nothing so prettily forwards these affairs as a correspondence between the parties undertaken to put an end to them
She went laughing out of the chamber and Camilla who had seized a pen distressfully flung it from her
What indeed could she say he had made no direct declaration she could give therefore no direct repulse and though through her brothers cruel want of all consideration she was so deeply in his debt she durst no longer promise its discharge for the strange departure of Edgar robbed her of all courage to make to him her meditated application
Yet to leave Sir Sedley in this errour was every way terrible If which still seemed very possible from his manner and behaviour he should check his partiality and make the whole of what had passed end in mere publicplace gallantry she must always have the mortification to know he had considered her as ready to accept him If on the contrary encouraging what he felt for her from the belief she returned his best opinion he should seriously demand her hand how could she justify the apparent attention she once paid him and how assert while so hopelessly his debtor the independence to reject one who so many ways seemed to hold himself secure
She was broken in upon by Mrs Mittin who entered full of lamentation at the intelligence she had just heard from Miss Dennel of her sudden departure which she ended with But as you are going in such haste my dear you must have fifty things to do so pray now let me help you Come what shall I pack up for you Wheres all your things
Camilla incapable of doing any business for herself accepted the offer
Well then now wheres your gowns Bless me what a one is here why its been in the dew and then in the dust and then in the dew again till all the bottom must be cut off why you can never shew it amongst your friends it will quite bring a disgrace upon poor Tunbridge come I think you must give it to me Ive got a piece of muslin just like it and I can piece it so that it wont appear but it will never do for you again
Camilla was surprised but her mind was filled with other matters and the gown was put apart
What are those all your neck handkerchiefs why my dear Miss Tyrold thats a thing you want very bad indeed why heres one you can never wear again it wants more darning than its worth
Camilla said she should have very good time to mend it at home
But then my dear you dont consider what a bad look that will have amongst your friends what will they think of poor Tunbridge that you should have let it go so far why may be theyll never let you come again the best way will be not to let them see it suppose I take it off your hands I dare say they dont know your count
At any other time Camilla would either have resisted these seizures or have been diverted by the pretence that they were made only for her own benefit but she was now glad at any rate to get rid of the care of the package
When this was over and Mrs Mittin had pretty well paid herself for her trouble Well my dear she cried and what can I do for you next Have you paid Mrs Tillden and Mr Doust and Mr Tent
These were questions that indeed roused Camilla from her reverie she had not once thought of what she owed to the milliner to her shoemaker nor to her haberdasher from all of whom she had now through the hands of Mrs Mittin had various articles She thanked her for reminding her of so necessary an attention and said she would immediately send for the bills
Ill run and pay em for you myself said Mrs Mittin for they always take that kind and as I recommended them all to you I have a right they should know how I stand their friend for theres many an odd service they may do me in return so Ill go for you with all my heart only give me the money
Camilla took out her purse in which from her debt to Sir Sedley and perpetually current expences there now remained but fifteen shillings of her borrowed five guineas though latterly she had wholly denied herself whatever did not seem an expence unavoidable What to do she now knew not for though all she had ordered had been trifling she was sure it must amount to four or five guineas She had repeatedly refused to borrow anything more of Mrs Arlbery always hoping every call for money would be the last but she was too inexperienced to know that in gay circles and public places the demands for wealth are endless and countless and that œconomy itself which is always local is there lavish and extravagant compared with its character in private scenes and retired life
Yet was this the last moment to apply to Mrs Arlbery upon such a subject since it would be endowing her with fresh arms to fight the cause of Sir Sedley She sat still and ruminating till Mrs Mittin who without scruple had taken a full inventory of the contents of the purse exclaimed La my dear why sure I hope that int all youve got left
Camilla was fain to confess she had nothing more at Tunbridge
Well dont be uneasy my dear cried she and Ill go to em all and be caution for you till you get the money
Camilla thanked her very sincerely and again resumed her first opinion of her real good nature and kindness of heart She took her direction in London whither she was soon to return and promised in a short time to transmit the money for her to distribute as every one of the shopkeepers went to the metropolis in the winter
Delighted both with the praise and the commission Mrs Mittin took leave and Camilla determined to employ her next quarters allowance in paying these debts and frankly to beg from her uncle the five guineas that were due to Mrs Arlbery
She then wrote an affectionate adieu to Mrs Berlinton intreating to hear from her at Etherington and while she was sealing it Mrs Arlbery came to embrace her as the carriage was at the door
Camilla in making her acknowledgments for the kindness she had received intermingled a petition that at least she would not augment if she refused to clear the mistake of Sir Sedley
I believe he may safely she answered be left to himself though it is plain that at this moment he is in a difficulty as great as your own for marriage he still resists though he finds you resistless I wish you mutually to be parted till pardon me my fair friend your understandings are mutually cleared and he is divested of what is too factitious and you of what is too artless Your situation is indeed rather whimsical for the two mortals with whom you have to deal require treatment diametrically opposite yet humour them a little adroitly and you presently gain them both He that is proud must be distanced he that is vain must be flattered This is paying them with their own coin but they hold no other to be current Pride if not humbled degenerates into contempt vanity if not indulged dissolves into indifference
Camilla disclaimed taking any measures with respect to either but Mrs Arlbery insisted the field would be won by Sir Sedley who is already she cried persuaded you have for some time encouraged him and that now you are fully propitious
Camilla hastily interrupted her O Mrs Arlbery she cried I cannot endure this add not to my disturbance by making it my own work
She then embraced her took leave of the Dennels and with the housekeeper of Sir Hugh set out from Tunbridge for Cleves
END OF THE THIRD VOLUME
VOLUME IV
BOOK VII
CHAPTER I
The right Style of Arguing
Camilla was received with the most tender joy by all her family again reassembled at Cleves to welcome the return of young Lynmere who was expected every hour Sir Hugh perfectly recovered from his late illness and busy notwithstanding all remonstrance in preparation for the approaching nuptials was in spirits that exhilarated whoever saw him Eugenia awaited that event with gentleness though with varying sensations from fears lest her personal misfortunes should prove repulsive to Clermont and from wishes to find him resembling Melmond in talents and Bellamy in passion and constancy
Dr Orkborne gave now his lessons with redoubled assiduity from an ambition to produce to the scholastic traveller a phenomenon of his own workmanship in a learned young female nor were his toils less ready nor less pleasant for a secret surmise they would shortly end though not till honour should be united with independence for his recompence But Miss Margland fretted that this wedding would advance no London journey and Indiana could not for a moment recover from her indignation that the deformed and ugly Eugenia though two years younger than herself should be married before her Lavinia had no thought but for the happiness of her sister and Mr Tyrold lamented the absence of his wife who alike from understanding and affection was the only person to properly superintend this affair but from whom Dr Marchmont just arrived brought very faint hopes of a speedy return
Eugenia however was not the sole care of her father at this period The countenance of Camilla soon betrayed to his inquiring eyes the inefficacy of the Tunbridge journey But he forbore all question and left to time or her choice to unravel if new incidents kept alive her inquietude or if no incident at all had been equally prejudicial to her repose
Two days after while Camilla still astonished by no news nor sight of Edgar was sitting with her sisters and recounting to them her late adventures and present difficulties with Sir Sedley Clarendel Jacob brought her in its own superb birdcage the learned little bullfinch telling her it had been delivered to him without any message by a man who said she had left it by mistake at Tunbridge whence he had had orders to follow her with it to Cleves park
She was much provoked thus to receive it Mrs Arlbery had pressed her to take it in her uncles chaise which she had firmly refused and she now concluded this method was adopted that Sir Sedley might imagine she detained it as his gift
In drawing out soon after the receptacle for the birds nourishment she perceived written with a pencil upon the wood these words Thou art gone then fair fugitive Ah at least fly only where thou mayst be pursued
This writing had not been visible till the machine was taken out to be replenished She recollected the hand of Sir Sedley and was now sure it was sent by himself and could no longer therefore doubt his intentions being serious
With infinite perplexity she consulted with her sisters but when candidly she had related that once to her neverending regret she had apparently welcomed his civilities Eugenia pronounced her rectitude to be engaged by that error as strongly as her gratitude by the preservation of her life and the extraordinary service done to Lionel not to reject the young baronet should he make his proposals
She heard this opinion with horror Timid shame and the counsel of her father united to impede her naming the internal obstacle which she felt to be insurmountable and while casting up in silence her appealing eyes to Heaven for relief from the intricacy in which she found herself involved she saw Lionel galloping into the park
She flew to meet him and he dismounted and led his horse to walk with her
She flattered herself she might now represent the mischief he was doing and obtain from him some redress But he was more wild and impracticable than ever Well my dear girl he cried when are all these betterings and worsings to take place Numps has sent for me to see poor little Greek and Latin hobble to the altar but tis a million to one if our noble baronet does not whisk you there before her Hes a charming fellow faith I had a good long confab with him this morning
This morning I hope then you were so good so just as to tell him when you mean to pay the money you have borrowed
My dear child I often think you were born but yesterday only by some accident you came into the world like Minerva grown up and ready dressed What makes you think I mean to pay him Have I given him any bond
A bond Is that necessary to justice and honour
If I had asked the money you are right my dear I ought then certainly to refund But as it now stands tis his own affair I have nothing to do with it except indeed receiving the dear little golden boys and making merry with them
O fie Lionel fie
Why what had I to do with it Do you think he would care one fig if he saw me sunk to the bottom of the Red Sea No my dear no you are the little debtor so balance your accounts for yourself and dont cast them upon your poor neighbours who have full enough to settle of their own
Camilla was thunderstruck And have you been so cruel she cried seeing the matter in such a light to place me in such a predicament
Cruel my dear girl why what will it cost you except a dimple or two the more And dont you know you always look best when you smile I assure you its a mercy he dont see you when you are giving me one of my lectures It disfigures you so horribly that hed take fright and never speak to you again
What can I ever say to make you hear me or feel for me Tell me at least what has passed this morning and assure me that nothing new nothing yet worse has occurred
O no nothing at all All is in the fairest train possible I dare say hell come hither upon the grand question before sunset
Camilla gasped for breath and was some time before she could ask whence he drew such a conclusion
O because I see hes in for it I have a pretty good eye my dear He said too he had such a prodigious friendship I think he called it for you that he was immeasurably happy and all that to be of the least service to your brother A fine fellow upon my word a fine generous spark as ever I saw He charged me to call upon him freely when I had any little embarrassment or difficulty or was hard run or things of that sort Hes a fine buck I tell you and knows the world perfectly that I promise you Hes none of your drivellers none of your ignoramuses He has the true notion of things Hes just a right friend for me You could not have made a better match
Camilla in the most solemn manner protested herself disengaged in thought word and deed and declared her fixed intention so to continue But he only laughed at her declarations calling them maidenly fibs and assuring her the young baronet was so much in earnest she might as well be sincere as not Besides he added tis not fair to trifle where a man behaves so handsomely and honourably Consider the £200
I shall quite lose my senses Lionel cried she in an agony I shall quite lose my senses if you speak in this manner
Lionel shouted aloud Why my dear girl what is £200 to Sir Sedley Clarendel You talk as if he had twenty pound ayear for pinmoney like you and Lavinia that might go with half a gown ayear if good old Numps did not help you Why hes as rich as Crœsus child Besides he would have been quite affronted if I had talked of paying him such a trifle for he offered me any thing I pleased O he knows the world I promise you Hes none of your starched prigs He knows life my dear He said he could perfectly conceive how hard it must be to a lad of spirit like me to be always exact I dont know that I ever made a more agreeable acquaintance in my life
Camilla was in an agitation that made him regard her for a moment with a serious surprise but his natural levity soon resumed its post and laughing at himself for being nearly he said taken in by her childish freaks he protested he would bite no more For after all you must not think to make a fool of me my dear It wont do Im too knowing Do you suppose if he had not already made up his mind to the noose and was not sure you had made up yours to letting it be tied he would have cared for poor me and my scrapes No no whatever he does for me before you are married you may set down in your own memorandum book whatever he may please to do afterwards I am content should be charged to poor Pillgarlick
He then bid her goodmorrow by the name of Lady Clarendel and said he would go and see if little Greek and Latin were as preposterous a prude about young Lynmere
Camilla remained almost petrified with amazement at her own situation and only was deterred from immediately opening her whole heart and affairs to her father with the confidence to which his indulgence entitled him by the impossibility of explaining her full distress without betraying her brother
CHAPTER II
A Council
The next morning Camilla eager to try once more her influence with her brother accompanied him into the park and renewed her remonstrances but with no better success and while they were passing by a private gate that opened to the high road they saw Sir Sedley Clarendel driving by in his phaeton
Lionel bursting from his sister opened the gate called to Sir Sedley to give his reins to one of his servants and brought him not unwilling though much surprised into the park
Camilla in dismay unspeakable at this conduct and the idea of such a meeting had run forward instantly to hide herself in the summerhouse to avoid repassing the gate in her way to the mansion but her scheme was more precipitate than wise Lionel caught a glimpse of her gown as she went into the little building and shouted aloud Look look Sir Sedley theres Camilla making believe to run away from you
Ah fair fugitive cried the baronet springing forward and entering the summerhouse almost as soon as herself fly only thus where you may be pursued
Camilla utterly confounded knew not where to cast her eyes where to hide her face and her quickchanging colour and shortheaved breath manifested an excess of confusion that touched flattered and penetrated the baronet so deeply and so suddenly as to put him off from all guard of consequences and all recollection of matrimonial distaste Beautiful resistless Camilla he cried how vain is it to struggle against your witchery Assure me but of your clemency and I will adore the chains that shackle me
Camilla wholly overcome by sorrow gratitude repentance and shame sunk upon a chair and shed a torrent of tears that she even sought not to restrain The shock of refusing one to whose error in believing himself acceptable she had largely contributed or the horror of yielding to him her hand while her heart was in the possession of another made her almost wish at this moment he should divine her distress that his own pride might conclude it
But far different from what would produce such an effect were the feelings of pride now working in his bosom He imagined her emotion had its source in causes the softest and most flattering Every personal obstacle sunk before this idea and with a seriousness in his manner he had not yet used This evening lovely Camilla he cried let me beg for this evening the audience accorded me upon that which I lost at Tunbridge
He was then going but Camilla hastily rising cried Sir Sedley I beseech when Lionel capering into the little apartment danced round it in mad ecstasy chanting Lady Clarendel Lady Clarendel my dear Lady Clarendel
Camilla now was not confused alone Sir Sedley himself could gladly have pushed him out of the building but neither the looks of surprise and provocation of the baronet nor the prayers nor reprimands of Camilla could tame his wild transport He shook hands whether he would or not with the one he bowed most obsequiously whether she would regard him or not to the other and still chanting the same burden made a clamour that shook the little edifice to its foundation
The strong taste for ridicule that was a prominent part of the character of Sir Sedley was soon conquered by this ludicrous behaviour and both his amazement and displeasure ended in a hearty fit of laughter But Camilla suffered too severely to join in the mirth she blushed for her brother she blushed for herself she hung her head in speechless shame and covered her eyes with her hand
The noisy merriment of Lionel preventing any explanation though rendering it every moment more necessary Sir Sedley repeating his request for the evening took leave
Camilla looked upon his departing in this manner as her sentence to misery and was pursuing him to decline the visit but Lionel seizing her two hands swung her round the room in defiance of her even angry expostulations and sufferings which he neither credited nor conceived and then skipt after the baronet himself who was already out of the park
She became now nearly frantic She thought herself irretrievably in the power of Sir Sedley and by means so forced and indelicate that she was scarcely more afflicted at the event than shocked by its circumstances and though incapable to really harbour rancour against a brother she sincerely loved she yet believed at this moment she never should forgive nor willingly see him more
In this state she was found by Lavinia The history was inarticulately told but Lavinia could give only her pity she saw not any avenue to an honourable retreat and thought like Eugenia she could now only free herself by the breach of what should be dearer to her even than happiness her probity and honour
Utterly inconsolable she remained till again she heard the voice of Lionel loudly singing in the park
Go to him go to him my dearest Lavinia she cried and if my peace is dear to you prevail with him to clear up the mistakes of Sir Sedley and to prevent his dreaded killing visit this evening
Lavinia only answered by compliance but after an half hours useless contest with her riotous brother returned to her weeping sister not merely successless with regard to her petition but loaded with fresh ill tidings that she knew not how to impart Lionel had only laughed at the repugnance of Camilla which he regarded as something between childishness and affectation and begged Lavinia to be wiser than to heed to it Brother Sedley has desired me however he added not to speak of the matter to Numps nor my father till he has had a little more conversation with his charmer and he intends to call tonight as if only upon a visit to me
When Camilla learnt at length this painful end of her embassy she gave herself up so completely to despair that Lavinia affrighted ran to the house for Eugenia whose extreme youth was no impediment in the minds of her liberal sisters to their belief nor reverence of her superior wisdom Her species of education had early prepossessed them with respect for her knowledge and her unaffected fondness for study had fixed their opinion of her extraordinary understanding The goodness of her heart the evenness of her temper and her natural turn to contemplation had established her character alike for sanctity and for philosophy throughout the family
She listened with the sincerest commiseration to the present state of the case Certainly she cried you cannot in honour now refuse him but deal with him sincerely and he may generously himself relinquish his claims Write to him my dear Camilla tell him you grieve to afflict yet disdain to deceive him assure him of your perfect esteem and eternal gratitude but confess at once your heart refuses to return his tenderness Entreat him to forgive whatever he may have mistaken and nobly to restore to you the liberty of which your obligations without his consent must rob you
To Lavinia this advice appeared infallible but Camilla though she felt an entanglement which fettered herself thought it by no means sufficiently direct or clear to authorise a rejection of Sir Sedley since strangely as she seemed in his power circumstances had placed her there and not his own solicitation
Yet to prevent a visit of which her knowledge seemed consent and which her consent must be most seriously to authorise she deemed as indispensable to her character as to her fears She hesitated therefore not a moment in preferring writing to a meeting and after various conversations and various essays the following billet was dispatched to Clarendel Place through the means of Molly Mill and by her friend Tommy Hodd
To Sir Sedley Clarendel
I should ill return what I owe to Sir Sedley Clarendel by causing him any useless trouble I can spare him He spoke of a visit hither this evening when I was too much hurried to represent that it could not be received as my brothers residence is at Etherington and my father and my uncle have not the honour to be known to Sir Sedley For me my gratitude must ever be unalterable and where accident occasions a meeting I shall be most happy to express it but I have nothing to say nothing to offer that could recompense one moment of Sir Sedleys time given voluntarily to such a visit
Camilla Tyrold
Ill as this letter satisfied her she could devise nothing better but though her sisters had both thought it too rigorous she would not risk anything gentler
During the dinner they all appeared absent and dejected but Sir Hugh attributed it to the nonarrival of Clermont in watching for whom his own time was completely occupied by examining two weathercocks and walking from one to the other to see if they agreed or how they changed Indiana was wholly engrossed in consultations with Miss Margland upon the most becoming dress for a brides maid and Mr Tyrold having observed that his three girls had spent the morning together concluded Camilla had divulged to them her unhappy perplexity and felt soothed himself in considering she had soothers so affectionate and faithful
Early in the evening Tommy Hodd arrived and Molly Mill brought Camilla the following answer of Sir Sedley
Miss Camilla Tyrold
Ah what in this lower sphere can be unchequered when even a correspondence with the most lovely of her sex brings alarm with its felicity Must I come then to Cleves fair Insensible but as a visitor to Mr Lionel Have you taken a captive only to see him in fetters Allured a victim merely to behold him bleed Ah tomorrow at least permit the audience that today is denied and at your feet let your slave receive his doom
Sedley Clarendel
Camilla turned cold She shrunk from a remonstrance she conceived she had merited and regarded herself to be henceforth either culpable or unhappy Unacquainted with the feminine indulgence which the world by long prescription grants to coquetry its name was scarcely known to her and she saw in its own native egotism the ungenerous desire to please where she herself was indifferent and anticipated from Sir Sedley reproach if not contempt No sophistications of custom had warped the first innocence of her innate sense of right and to trifle with the feelings of another for any gratification of her own made success bring a blush to her integrity not exultation to her vanity
The words victim and bleeding much affected the tender Lavinia while those of fetters captive and insensible satisfied the heroic Eugenia that Sir Sedley deserved the hand of her sister but neither of them spoke
You say nothing cried Camilla turning paler and paler and sitting down lest she should fall
They both wept and embraced her and Eugenia said if indeed she could not conquer her aversion she saw no way to elude the baronet but by openly confessing her repugnance in the conversation he demanded
Camilla saw not less strongly the necessity of being both prompt and explicit but how receive Sir Sedley at Cleves and upon what pretence converse with him privately Even Lionel the next day was to return to the university though his presence if he staid would in all probability but add to every difficulty
At length they decided that the conference should take place at the Grove and to prevent the threatened visit of the next day Camilla wrote the following answer
To Sir Sedley Clarendel
I should be grieved indeed to return my obligations to Sir Sedley Clarendel by meriting his serious reproach yet I cannot have the honour of seeing him at Cleves since my brother is immediately quitting it for Oxford As soon as I hear Mrs Arlbery is again at the Grove I shall wait upon her and always be most happy to assure Sir Sedley of my gratitude which will be as lasting as it is sincere
Camilla Tyrold
Though wretched in this strange state of things she knew not how to word her letter more positively since his own notwithstanding its inferences had so much more the style of florid gallantry than plain truth Molly Mill undertook that Tommy Hodd should carry it early the next morning
Lionel was so enraged at the nonappearance of the young baronet at night that Camilla was compelled to confess she had promised to see him and to give him his answer at Mrs Arlberys He was out of humour nevertheless lest Sir Sedley should be affronted by the delay and feared that the best match in the whole county would prove abortive from his sisters foolish trimmings and silly ignorance of life
CHAPTER III
A Proposal of Marriage
The increasing depression of Camilla and the melancholy of her sympathising sisters though still attributed to the adverse wind by the compasswatching baronet escaped not the notice of Mr Tyrold who alarmed for the peace of his daughter determined to watch for the first quiet opportunity of investigating her actual situation
Lionel after breakfast the next morning was obliged to relinquish waiting for Clermont and to set off for Oxford He contrived to whisper to Camilla that he hoped she would be a good girl at last and not play the fool but finding she only sighed he laughed at her calamitious state in becoming mistress of fifteen thousand per annum only by the small trouble of running over a short ceremony and assuring her he would assist her off with part of the charge if it were too heavy for her bid her inform him in time of the propitious day
Camilla shortly after saw from her window galloping full speed across the park to the house Major Cerwood She suspected her tormenting brother to have been again at work nor was she mistaken He had met with the Major at the hotel at Tunbridge while his spirits always violent were in a state of almost intoxication of delight at the first idea of such an accession to his powers of amusement as a new brother rolling in immense wealth which he already considered as nearly at his own disposal High wrought therefore for what he deemed good sport he confirmed what he had asserted at the ball at Northwick of the expectations of Camilla from Sir Hugh by relating the public fact of her having been announced to the family and neighbourhood for his uncles heiress at ten years of age and only sinking in his account the revocation made so soon after in favour of Eugenia To this he added his advice that no time was to be lost as numberless new suitors were likely to pursue her from Tunbridge
The Major upon alighting inquired for Sir Hugh deeming Mr Tyrold of little consequence since it was not from him Camilla was to inherit her fortune
The baronet as usual was watching the winds and the clouds but concluding whoever came would bring some news from Clermont received the Major with the utmost cordiality saying I see sir you are a stranger by which I suppose you to be just come from abroad where I hope you left all well
I am just come sir answered the Major from Tunbridge where I had the honour through my acquaintance with Mrs Arlbery of meeting daily with your charming niece an honour sir which must cause all the future happiness or misery of my life
He then made a declaration in form of the most ardent passion for Camilla mentioned his family which was an honourable one talked of his expectations with confidence though vaguely and desired to leave the disposition of the settlement wholly to the baronet who he hoped would not refuse to see his elder brother a gentleman of fortune in Lincolnshire who would have the honour to wait upon him at any time he would be so good as to appoint upon this momentous affair
Sir Hugh heard this harangue with consternation The Major was in the prime of life his person was good his speech was florid his air was assured and his regimentals were gay Not a doubt of his success occurred to the baronet who saw in one blow the darling scheme of his old age demolished in the deprivation of Camilla
The Major impatiently waited for an answer but Sir Hugh was too much disordered to frame one he walked up and down the room muttering in a desponding manner to himself Lord help us what a set of poor weak mortals we are we poor men The best schemes and plans in the world always coming to nothing before we can bring them about Ill never form another while I live for the sake of this one warning Nobody knows next but what Clermont will be carrying off Eugenia to see foreign parts and then comes some other of these redcoats to take away Indiana and after doing all for the best so long I may be left all alone except just for Mrs Margland and the Doctor that I dont take much pleasure in Lord help me except as a Christian which I hope is no sin
At length endeavouring to compose himself he sat down and said So you are come sir to take away from me my own particular little niece which is a hard thing upon an uncle intending her to live with him However I dont mean to find fault but I can tell you this one thing sir which I beg you to remember which is if you dont make her happy youll break my heart For shes what I love the best in the world little as Ive made it appear by not leaving her a shilling For which sake however I cant but respect you the more for coming after her instead of Eugenia
Sir cried the Major amazed
The other two chaps continued he that came about us not long ago wanted to make their court to Eugenia and Indiana as well as another that came to the house when I was ill in the same coat as yourself by what I can gather from the description but never a one has come to Camilla yet except yourself because my brother can spare her but a trifle having another young girl to provide for besides Lionel which is the most expensive of them all poor boy never having enough by the reason Oxford is so dear as I suppose
The Major now wore an air of surprise and uneasiness that Sir Hugh began to observe but attributed to his unpleasant reception of his proposals He begged his pardon therefore and again assured him of his respect for a choice so little mercenary which he looked upon as a mark of a good heart
The Major completely staggered and suspecting the information of Lionel to be ill grounded if not purposely deluding entreated his permission to wait upon him again and offered for the present to take leave
Sir Hugh in a melancholy voice said he would first summon his niece as he could not answer it to his conscience preventing the meeting unless she gave him leave
He then rang the bell and told Jacob to call Camilla
Major Cerwood was excessively distressed To retreat seemed impossible yet to connect himself without fortune when he thought he was addressing a rich heiress was a turn of fate he scarcely knew how either to support or to parry All that in this haste he could resolve was to let the matter pass for the moment and then insist upon satisfaction from Lionel either in clearing up the mistake or taking upon himself its blame
When Camilla appeared the disturbance of Sir Hugh still augmented and he could hardly articulate My dear in the case you are willing to leave your family heres a gentleman come to make his addresses to you which I think it right you should know though how I shall struggle through it if I lose you is more than my poor weak head can tell for what shall I do without my dear little girl that I thought to make the best comfort of my old age which however I beg you not to think of in case this young Captains more agreeable
Ah my dear uncle cried she your Camilla can never return half the comfort she receives from you keep me with you still and ever I am much obliged to Major Cerwood I beg him to accept my sincerest thanks but to pardon me when I assure him they are all I have to offer him
Repulse was not new to the Major who in various country towns had sought to retrieve his affairs by some prudent connection his pride however had never so little suffered as on the present occasion for his apprehension of error or imposition had removed from him all thought of even the possibility of a refusal which now therefore unexpectedly and joyfully obviated his embarrassment and enabled him to quit the field by an honourable retreat He bowed profoundly called himself without knowing what he said the most unhappy of men and without risking one solicitation or a moment for repentance hastily took leave with intention immediately to demand an explanation of Lionel
But he had not escaped a mile from the house ere he gave up that design from anticipating the ridicule that might follow it To require satisfaction for a young ladys want of fortune however reasonable would always be derided as ludicrous He resolved therefore quietly to put up with the rejection and to gather his next documents concerning the portion of a fair damsel from authority better to be relied upon than that of a brother
Sir Hugh for some time discovered not that he had retired Enchanted by so unexpected a dismission his favourite scheme of life seemed accorded to him and he pressed Camilla to his bosom in a transport of joy We shall live together now I hope he cried without any of these young chaps coming in again to part us Not that I would object to your marrying my dear girl if it was with a relation like Eugenia or with a neighbour like Indiana if it had not been for its going off but to see you taken away from me by a mere stranger coming from distant parts and knowing nothing of any of us is a thing that makes my heart ache but to think of so I hope it will happen no more for these trials do no good to my recovery
Turning round then with a view to say something consolatory to the Major he was seriously concerned to find him departed I cant say he cried I had any intention to send him off so short his meaning not being bad considering him in the light of a person in love which is a time when a man has not much thought except for himself by what I can gather
He then proposed a walk to watch if Clermont were coming The wind he acknowledged was indeed contrary but he did not doubt upon such a particular occasion his good lad would not mind such difficulties
CHAPTER IV
A BullDog
Sir Hugh called upon his other nieces to join him purposing to stroll to the end of a lane which led to the London road
Camilla accompanied the party in the most mournful silence The assuming letter she had received the interview she should have to sustain and her apparent dependance upon Sir Sedley sinking her into complete despondence
When they came to the high road Sir Hugh made a stop and bid every body look sharp
A horseman was seen advancing full gallop By his figure he appeared to be young by his pace in uncommon speed
Thats him cried Sir Hugh striking his stick upon the ground and smiling most complacently I said he would not mind the wind my dear Eugenia whats the wind or the waves either to a lover which is a thing however that I wont talk about so dont be ashamed my dear girl nobody knowing what we mean
Eugenia looked down deeply colouring and much regretting the lameness that prevented her running back to avoid so public and discountenancing a meeting
The horseman now came up to them and was preparing to turn down the lane when all at once they perceived him to be Edgar Mandlebert
He had left Tunbridge in a manner not more abrupt than comfortless His disappointment in the failure of Camilla at the Rooms had been as bitter as his expectations from the promised conference had been animated When Lionel appeared he inquired if his sister were absent from illness No she was only writing a letter To take this moment for such a purpose be the letter what it might seemed sporting with his curiosity and warm interest in her affairs and he went back mortified and dejected to his lodgings where just arrived by the stage he found a letter from Dr Marchmont acquainting him with his return to his rectory In this suspensive state of mind to cast himself upon his sagacious friend seemed a relief the most desirable but while considering whether first to claim from Camilla her promised communication the voice of Lionel issuing from the room of Major Cerwood struck his ears He darted forth and accompanied the youth to his horse who was setting out upon some expedition in the dark and then received information under the pretence of great secrecy that Major Cerwood was going immediately to ask leave of absence and proceed straight to Hampshire with his final proposals of marriage with Camilla He now concluded this was the subject upon which she had meant to consult with him but delicacy pride and hope all combated his interference He determined even to avoid her till the answer should be given I must owe her hand cried he to her heart not to a contest such as this and if impartially and unbiassed the Major is refused no farther cruel doubt no torturing hesitation shall keep me another minute from her feet With the dawn therefore he set out for Hampshire but fixed to avoid Cleves till he could learn that the Majors visit were over he devoted his mornings to rides and his evenings to Dr Marchmont till now a mile or two from the Park he had met the Major himself and concluded the acceptance or the rejection decided They merely touched their hats as they passed each other and he instantly took the route which the Major was quitting
In the excess of his tribulation he was galloping past the whole group without discerning one of its figures when Sir Hugh called out Why its young Mr Edgar So now weve walked all this way for nothing and Clermont may be still at Jericho or at Rome for anything we know to the contrary
Edgar stopt short He felt himself shiver at sight of Camilla but dismounted gave his horse to his groom and joined the party
Eugenia recovering now fearlessly looked up but Camilla struck and affected shook in every limb and was forced to hold by Lavinia
Edgar called upon his utmost presence of mind to carry him through what he conceived to be a final trial He spoke to Sir Hugh and compelled himself to speak separately to every one else but when he addressed Camilla to whom he said something not very distinctly about Tunbridge she curtsied to him slightly and turned away without making any answer Her mind taking suddenly a quick retrospection of all that had passed between them presented him to her view as uncertain and delusive and casting upon him internally the whole odium of her present distress and her feelings were so indignant that in her present desperate state she deemed it beneath her to disguise them either from himself or the world
Edgar to whose troubled imagination everything painted his rival concluded the Major had been heard with favour and his own adverse counsel was now recollected with resentment
Sir Hugh far more fatigued by his disappointment than by his walk said he should go no further as he found it in vain to expect Clermont and accepted the arm of Edgar to aid his stick in helping him home
Camilla still leaning upon Lavinia mounted a little bank which she knew Sir Hugh could not ascend that she might walk on where Edgar could not join her involuntarily ejaculating Lavinia if you would avoid deceit and treachery look at a man as at a picture which tells you only the present moment Rely upon nothing of time to come They are not like us Lavinia They think themselves free if they have made no verbal profession though they may have pledged themselves by looks by actions by attentions and by manners a thousand and a thousand times
Edgar observed her avoidance with the keenest apprehension and connecting it with her failure at the Rooms imagined the Major had now influenced her to an utter aversion of him
Sir Hugh meanwhile though wholly unheard related in a low voice to Edgar the history of his preparations for Clermont begging him however to take no notice of them to Eugenia and then adding Very likely Mr Edgar you are just come from Tunbridge and if so you may have met with that young Captain that has been with us this morning who I understand to be a Major
Edgar was thrown into the utmost trepidation the artless openness of Sir Hugh gave him every reason to suppose he should immediately gather full intelligence and all his peace and all his hopes might hang upon another word He could only bow to the question but before Sir Hugh could go on a butchers boy who was riding by from a wanton love of mischief gave a signal to his attending bulldog to attack the old spaniel that accompanied Sir Hugh
Sustained by his master many a year the proud old favourite though unequal to the combat disdained to fly and the fierce bulldog would presently have demolished him had not Edgar recovering all his vigour from his earnest desire to rescue an animal so dear to Sir Hugh armed himself with the baronets stick and thrust it dexterously across the jaws of this intended antagonist
Nothing however could withstand the fangs of the bulldog they soon severed it and again he made at the spaniel but Edgar rushed between them with no other weapons than the broken fragments of the stick and while the baronet and Eugenia screamed out to old Rover to return to them and Lavinia with more readiness of common sense exerted the fullest powers of which her gentle voice was capable to conjure the wicked boy to call off his dog Camilla who was the last to look round at this scene only turned about as the incensed and disappointed bulldog missing his object aimed at Edgar himself Roused at once from her sullen calm to the most agonising sensibility every thing and every body herself most of all were forgotten in the sight of his danger and with a piercing shriek she darted down the bank and arrived at the tremendous spot at the same instant that the more useful exhortations of Lavinia had induced the boy to withdraw the fierce animal who with all his might and all his fury obeyed the weak whistle of a little urchin he had been bred to love and respect for bringing him his daily food
Camilla perceived not if the danger were impending or over gasping pale and agitated she caught Mandlebert by the arm and in broken accents half pronounced O Edgar are you hurt
The revulsion that had operated in her mind took now its ample turn in that of Mandlebert he could hardly trust his senses hardly believe he existed yet he felt the pressure of her hand upon his arm and saw in her countenance terror the most undisguised and tenderness that went straight to his soul Is it Camilla he cried who thus speaks to me Is not my safety or my destruction alike indifferent to Camilla
O no O no cried she scarce conscious she answered at all till called to recollection by his own changed looks changed from incredulity and amazement to animation that lightened up every feature to eyes that shot fire Abashed astonished ashamed she precipitately drew away her hand and sought quietly to retire
But Edgar was no longer master of himself he conceived he was on a pinnacle whence he could only and without any gradation turn to happiness or despair He followed her trembling and uncertain his joy fading into alarm at her retreat his hope transforming into apprehension at her resumed coldness of demeanor Do you repent he cried that you have shewn me a little humanity will the Major the happy Major be offended you do less than detest me
The Major repeated she looking back surprised can you think the Major has any influence with me
Ah Heaven he cried what do you say
Enchanted affrighted bewildered yet silent she hurried on Edgar could not forget himself more than a moment he forbore therefore to follow and though with a self-denial next to torture returned to Sir Hugh to whom his arm was doubly necessary from the scene he had just witnessed and the loss of his stick
The butchers boy and his bulldog were decamped and the baronet and Eugenia were rivalling each other in fondling the rescued spaniel and in pouring thanks and praise unlimited upon Edgar
They then walked back as before and as soon as they reentered the mansion the female party went upstairs and Sir Hugh warmly shaking Edgar by the hand said My dear Mr Edgar this is one of the happiest days of my life except just that of my nephews coming over which it is but right to put before it But here first my dear Camillas refused that young Captain who would have carried her the Lord knows where immediately as I make no doubt and next Ive saved the life of my poor old Rover by the means of your goodnature
Refused cried Edgar my dear Sir Hugh—did you say refused
Sir Hugh innocently gratified him with the repetition of the word but begged him not to mention it For fear he said it should hurt the young man when he falls in love somewhere else which I heartily hope he will do soon poor gentleman for the sake of its not fretting him
Miss Camilla then has refused him again repeated Edgar with a countenance that to any man but the baronet must have betrayed his whole soul
Yes poor gentleman this very morning for which I am thankful enough for what do we know of those young officers who may all be sent to the East Indies or Jamaica every day of their lives Not but what I have the proper pity for him which I hope is all that can be expected
Edgar walked about the room in a perturbation of hope fear and joy that disabled him from all further appearance of attention He wished to relate this transaction to Dr Marchmont yet dreaded any retarding advice he languished to make Camilla herself the sole mistress of his destiny the interest she had shewn for his safety seemed to admit but one interpretation and finally he resolved to stay at Cleves till he could meet with her alone
Camilla had not uttered a word after the adventure of the bulldog The smallest idea that she could excite the least emotion in Edgar brought a secret rapture to her heart that at any former period would alone have sufficed to render her happy but at this instant of entanglement with another she revolted from the indulgence of such pleasure and instead of dwelling as she would have done before on the look the accent the manner that were susceptible by any construction of partiality she checked every idea that did not represent Edgar as unstable and consistent and sought with all her power to regard him as Mrs Arlbery had painted him and to believe him except in a few casual moments of caprice insensible and hard of heart
Yet this entanglement in which scarce knowing how she now seemed to be entwined with Sir Sedley grew more and more terrific and when she considered that her sisters themselves thought her independence gone and her honour engaged she was seized with so much wonderment how it had all been brought about that her understanding seemed to play her false and she believed the whole a dream
CHAPTER V
An Oak Tree
When the sisters were summoned down stairs to dinner planted at the door ready to receive them at their entrance stood Edgar Lavinia and Eugenia addressed him as usual but Camilla could not speak could not return his salutation could not look at him She sat hastily down in her accustomed place by her uncle and even the presence of her father scarcely restrained her tears as she contrasted the hopeless uncertainties of Edgar with the perilous pursuit of Sir Sedley
Edgar for the first time saw her avoidance without suspecting that it flowed from repugnance The interest she had shewn for his safety was still bounding in his breast and as from time to time he stole a glance at her and observed her emotion his heart whispered him the softest hopes that soon the most perfect confidence would make every feeling reciprocal
But these hopes were not long without alloy he soon discerned something that far exceeded what could give him pleasure in her perturbation he read in it not merely hurry and alarm but suffering and distress
He now ventured to look at her no more his confidence gave place to pity he saw she was unhappy and breathed no present wish but to relieve and console her
When the dessert was served she was preparing to retire but she caught the eye of her father and saw she should not long be alone she reseated herself therefore in haste to postpone at least his scrutiny
Every body at length arose and Sir Hugh proposed that they should all walk in the park during his nap but keep close to the pales that they might listen for all passengers in case of Clermonts coming
To this also Camilla could make no objection and they set out She took an arm of each sister and indulged the heaviness of her heart in not uttering a word
They had not gone far when a servant ran after Mr Tyrold with a pacquet just arrived by a private hand from Lisbon He returned to read it in his own room Lavinia and Eugenia accompanied him to hear its contents and Camilla for the first time seemed the least affectionate of his daughters she durst not encounter him but in the mixt company of all the house she told Lavinia to make haste back with the news and took the arm of Indiana
The compulsion of uninteresting discourse soon became intolerable and no longer chained to the party by the awe of her father she presently left Indiana to Miss Margland and perceiving that Edgar was conversing with Dr Orkborne said she would wait for her sisters and turning a little aside sat down upon a bench under a large oak
Here her painful struggle and unwilling forbearance ended she gave free vent to her tears and thought herself the most wretched of human beings she found her heart her aching heart more than ever devoted to Mandlebert filled with his image revering his virtues honouring even his coldness from a persuasion she deserved not his affection and sighing solely for the privilege to consign herself to his remembrance for life though unknown to himself and unsuspected by the world The very idea of Sir Sedley was horror to her she felt guilty to have involved herself in an intercourse so fertile of danger she thought over with severest repentance her short but unjustifiable deviation from that transparent openness and undesigning plainness of conduct which her disposition as much as her education ought to have rendered unchangeable To that alone was owing all her actual difficulty for to that alone was owing her own opinion of any claim upon her justice How dearly she cried do I now pay for the unthinking plan with which I risked the peace of another for the reestablishment of my own She languished to throw herself into the arms of her father to unbosom to him all her errors and distresses and owe their extrication to his wisdom and kindness She was sure he would be unmoved by the glare of a brilliant establishment and that far from desiring her to sacrifice her feelings to wealth and shew he would himself plead against the alliance when he knew the state of her mind and recommend to her so circumstanced the single life in the true spirit of Christian philosophy and moderation but all was so closely interwoven in the affairs and ill conduct of her brother that she believed herself engaged in honour to guard the fatal secret though hazarding by its concealment impropriety and misery
These afflicting ruminations were at length interrupted by the sound of feet she took her handkerchief from her eyes expecting to see her sisters she was mistaken and beheld Mandlebert
She started and rose she strove to chace the tears from her eyes without wiping them and asked what he had done with Dr Orkborne
You are in grief cried he in a tone of sympathy some evil has befallen you let me ask
No I am only waiting for my sisters They have just received letters from Lisbon
You have been weeping you are weeping now why do you turn away from me I will not obtrusively demand your confidence yet could I give you the most distant idea what a weight it might remove from my mind you would find it difficult to deny yourself the pleasure of doing so much good
The tears of Camilla now streamed afresh Words so kind from Edgar the cold the hardhearted Edgar surprised and overset her yet she endeavoured to hide her face and made an effort to pass him
Is not this a little unkind cried he gravely however I have no claim to oppose you
Unkind she repeated and involuntarily turning to him shewed a countenance so disconsolate that he lost his selfcontrol and taking her reluctant hand said O Camilla torture me no longer
Almost transfixed with astonishment she looked at him for a moment in a speechless wonder but the interval of doubt was short the character of Edgar for unalienable steadiness unalterable honour was fixed in her mind like truths from holy writ and she knew with certainty incontrovertible that his fate was at her disposal from the instant he acknowledged openly her power over his feelings
Every opposite sensation that with violence the most ungovernable could encounter but to combat now met in her bosom elevating her to rapture harrowing her with terror menacing even her understanding The most exquisite wish of her heart seemed accorded at a period so nearly too late for its acceptance that her faculties bewildered confused deranged lost the capacity of clearly conceiving if still she were a free agent or not
He saw her excess of disorder with alarm he sought to draw her again to her seat but she put her hand upon her forehead and leant it against the bark of the tree
You will not speak to me cried he you will not trust me shall I call you cruel No for you are not aware of the pain you inflict the anguish you make me suffer the generosity of your nature would else unbidden impulsively interfere
You suffer you cried she again distressfully almost incredulously looking at him while her hands were uplifted with amazement I thought you above any suffering superior to all calamity almost to all feeling
Ah Camilla what thus estranges you from candor from justice what is it can prompt you to goad thus a heart which almost from its first beating
He stopt desirous to check himself while penetrated by his softness and ashamed of what in the bitterness of her spirit she had pronounced she again melted into tears and sunk down upon the bench yet holding out to him one hand while with the other she covered her face Forgive me she cried I entreat for I scarce know what I say
Such a speech and so accompanied might have demolished the stoicism of an older philosopher than Edgar he fervently kissed her proferred hand exclaiming Forgive you can Camilla use such a word has she the slightest care for my opinion the most remote concern for me or for my happiness
Farewell farewell cried she hastily drawing away her hand go now I beseech you
What a moment to expect me to depart O Camilla my soul sickens of this suspence End it generous Camilla beloved as lovely my heart is all your own use it gently and accept it nobly
Every other emotion now in the vanquished Camilla every retrospective fear every actual regret yielded to the conquering charm of grateful tenderness and restoring the hand she had withdrawn O Edgar she cried how little can I merit such a gift yet I prize it far far beyond all words
The agitation of Edgar was at first too mighty and too delicious for speech but his eyes now cast up to heaven now fixed upon her own spoke the most ardent yet purest felicity while her hand now held to his heart now pressed to his lips strove vainly to recover its liberty Blest moment he at length uttered that finishes for every such misery of uncertainty that gives my life to happiness my existence to Camilla
Again speech seemed too poor for him Perfect satisfaction is seldom loquacious its character is rather tender than gay and where happiness succeeds abruptly to long solicitude and sorrow its enjoyment is fearful it softens rather than exhilarates Sudden joy is sportive but sudden happiness is awful
The pause however that on his side was ecstatic thankfulness soon became mixt on that of Camilla with confusion and remorse Sir Sedley returned to her memory and with him every reflection and every apprehension that most cruelly could sully each trembling though nearly gratified hope
The cloud that so soon dimmed the transient radiance of her countenance was instantly perceived by Edgar but as he was beginning the most anxious inquiries the two sisters approached and Camilla whose hand he then relinquished rushed forward and throwing her arms around their necks wept upon their bosoms
Sweet sisters cried Edgar embracing them all three in one long may ye thus endearingly entwine each other in the sacred links of affectionate affinity Where shall I find our common father where is Mr Tyrold
The amazed sisters could with difficulty answer that he was with their uncle to whom he was communicating news from their mother
Edgar looked tenderly at Camilla but perceiving her emotion forbore to speak to her though he could not deny himself the pleasure of snatching one kiss of the hand which hung down upon the shoulder of Eugenia he then whispered to both the sisters You will not I trust be my enemies and hurried to the house
What can this mean cried Eugenia and Lavinia in a breath
It means said Camilla that I am the most distressed yet the happiest of human beings
This little speech began with the deepest sigh but finished with the most refulgent smile only added to their wonder
I hope you have been consulting with Edgar said the innocent Eugenia nobody can more ably advise you since in generosity to Lionel you are prohibited from counselling with my father
Again the most expressive smiles played in every feature through the tears of Camilla as she turned with involuntary archness to Eugenia and answered And shall I follow his counsel my dear sister if he gives me any
Why not he is wise prudent and much attached to us all How he can have supposed it possible we could be his enemies is past all divination
Gaiety was so truly the native growth of the mind of Camilla that neither care nor affliction could chace it long from its home The speeches of the unsuspicious Eugenia that a moment before would have past unheeded now regaled her renovated fancy with a thousand amusing images which so vigorously struggled against her sadness and her terrors that they were soon nearly driven from the field by their sportive assailants and by the time she reached her chamber whither lost in amaze her sisters followed her the surprise she had in store for them the pleasure with which she knew they would sympathise in her happiness and the security of Edgars decided regard had liberated her mind from the shackles of reminiscence and restored her vivacity to its original spirit
Fastening then her door she turned to them with a countenance of the brightest animation alternately and almost wildly embraced them and related the explicit declaration of Edgar now hiding in their bosoms the blushes of her modest joy now offering up to Heaven the thanksgiving of her artless rapture now dissolving in the soft tears of the tenderest sensibility according to the quick changing impulses of her natural and lively yet feeling and susceptible character Nor once did she look at the reverse of this darling portrait of chosen felicity till Eugenia with a gentle sigh uttered Unhappy Sir Sedley Clarendel how may this stroke be softened to him
Ah Eugenia she cried that alone is my impediment to the most perfect the most unmixt content why have you made me think of him
My dear Camilla said Eugenia with a look of curious earnestness and taking both her hands while she seemed examining her face you are then it seems in love and with Edgar Mandlebert
Camilla blushing yet laughing broke away from her denying the charge
A consultation succeeded upon the method of proceeding with the young baronet Tommy Hodd was not yet returned with the answer it was five miles to Clarendel Place which made going and returning his days work She resolved to wait but this one reply and then to acknowledge to Edgar the whole of her situation The delicacy of Lavinia and the high honour of Eugenia concurred in the propriety of this confession and they all saw the urgent necessity of an immediate explanation with Sir Sedley whose disappointment might every hour receive added weight from delay Painful therefore confusing and distasteful as was the task Camilla determined upon the avowal and as completely to be guided by Edgar in this difficult conjuncture as if his advice were already sanctioned by conjugal authority
CHAPTER VI
A Call of the House
Edgar returned to the parlour with a countenance so much brightened a joy so open a confidence so manly and an air so strongly announcing some interesting intelligence that his history required no prelude Edgar said Mr Tyrold you have a look to disarm care of its corrosion You could not take a better time to wear so cheering an aspect I have just learnt that my wife can fix no sort of date for her return I must borrow therefore some reflected happiness and none after my children can bring its sunshine so home to my bosom as yourself
What a fortunate moment have you chosen cried Edgar affectionately taking him by the hand to express this generous pleasure in seeing me happy will you repent will you retract when you hear in what it may involve you Dearest sir my honoured my parental friend to what a test shall I put your kindness Will you give me in charge one of the dearest ties of your existence will you repose in my care so large a portion of your peace will you trust to me your Camilla
With all the ardour of her character all the keen and quick feelings of her sensitive mind scarce had Camilla herself been more struck more penetrated with sudden joy sudden wonder sudden gratification of every kind than Mr Tyrold felt at this moment He more than returned the pressure with which Edgar held his hand and instantly answered Yes my excellent young friend without hesitation without a shadow of apprehension for her happiness though she is all the fondest father can wish and though she only who gave her to me is dearer
Felicity and tenderness were now the sole guests in the breast of Edgar He kissed with reverence the hand of Mr Tyrold called him by the honoured and endearing title of father acknowledged that from the earliest period of observation Camilla had seemed to him the most amiable of human creatures spoke with the warm devotion he sincerely felt for her of Mrs Tyrold and was breathing forth his very soul in tender rapture upon his happy prospects when something between a sigh and a groan from the baronet made him hastily turn round apologise for not sooner addressing him and respectfully solicit his consent
Sir Hugh was in an agitation of delight and surprise almost too potent for his strength The Lord be good unto me he cried have I lived to see such a day as this Then throwing his arms about Edgars neck while his eyes were fast filling with tears which soon ran plentifully down his cheeks Good young Mr Edgar he cried good young man and do you really love my poor Camilla for all her not being worth a penny And will my dear little darling come to so good an end at last after being disinherited for doing nothing And will you never vex her nor speak an unkind word to her Indeed young Mr Edgar you are a noble boy you are indeed and I love you to the bottom of my old heart for this true good naturedness
Then again and again embracing him This is all of a piece he continued with your saving my poor old Rover which is a thing I shall never forget to my longest day being a remarkable sign of a good heart the poor dog having done nothing to offend as we can all testify So that its a surprising thing what that mastiff owed him such a grudge for
Then quitting him abruptly to embrace Mr Tyrold My dear brother he cried I hope your judgment approves this thing as well as my sisters when she comes to hear it which I shall send off express before I sleep another wink for fear of accidents
Approve answered Mr Tyrold with a look of the most expressive kindness at Edgar is too cold a word I rejoice even thankfully rejoice to place my dear child in such worthy and beloved hands
Well then cried the enchanted baronet if thats the case that we are all of one mind we had better settle the business at once all of us being subject to die by delay
He then rang the bell and ordered Jacob to summon Camilla to the parlour adding And all the rest too Jacob for I have something to tell them every one which I make no doubt they will be very glad to hear yourself included as well as your fellowservants who have no right to be left out only let my niece come first being her own affair
Camilla obeyed not the call without many secret sensations of distress and difficulty but which mingled with the more obvious ones of modesty and embarrassment all passed for a flutter of spirits that appeared natural to the occasion
Mr Tyrold could only silently embrace her knowing what she had suffered and judging thence the excess of her present satisfaction he would not add to her confusion by any information of his consciousness but the softness with which he held her to his bosom spoke beyond all words his heartfelt sympathy in her happiness
Camilla had no power to draw herself from his arms but Edgar hovered round her and Sir Hugh repeatedly and impatiently demanded to have his turn Mr Tyrold gently disengaging himself from her embraces gave one of her hands to Edgar who with grateful joy pressed it to his lips My children he then said laying a hand upon the shoulder of each what a sight is this to me how precious a union what will it be to your excellent mother So long and so decidedly it has been our favourite earthly wish that were she but restored to me to her country and to her family I might perhaps require some new evil to prevent my forgetting where and what I am
My dear brother I say my dear niece My dear Mr young Edgar cried Sir Hugh in the highest good humour though with nearly exhausted patience wont you let me put in a word nor so much as give you my blessing though I can hardly hold life and soul together for the sake of my joy
Camilla cast herself into his arms he kissed her most fondly saying Dont forget your poor old uncle my dear little girl for the account of this young Mr Edgar because good as he is he has taken to you but a short time in comparison with me
No said Edgar still tenaciously retaining the hand parentally bestowed upon him no dear Sir Hugh I wish not to rob you of your darling I wish but to be admitted myself into this dear and respected family and to have Etherington Cleves and Beech Park considered as our alternate and common habitations
You are the very best young man in the whole wide world cried Sir Hugh almost sobbing with ecstasy for you have hit upon just the very thing I was thinking of in my own private mind What a mercy it is our not accepting that young Captain who would have run away with her to I dont know where instead of being married to the very nearest estate in the county that will always be living with us
The rest of the family now obedient to the direction of Jacob who had intimated that something extraordinary was going forward entered the room
Come in come in cried Sir Hugh and hear the good news for we have just been upon the very point of losing the best opportunity that ever we had in our lives of all living together which I hope we shall now do without any more strangers coming upon us with their company being a thing we dont desire
But whats the good news uncle said Indiana is it only about our living together
Why yes my dear thats the first principle and the other is that young Mr Edgars going to marry Camilla which I hope you wont take ill liking being all fancy
Me cried she with a disdainful toss of the head though severely mortified its nothing to me Im sure
Camilla ashamed and Edgar embarrassed strove now mutually to shew Sir Hugh they wished no more might be said but he only embraced them again and declared he had never been so full of joy before in his whole life and would not be cut short
Miss Margland extremely piqued vented her spleen in oblique sarcasms and sought to heal her offended pride by appeals for justice to her sagacity and foresight in the whole business
Jacob now opening the door said all the servants were come
Camilla tried to escape but Sir Hugh would not permit her and the housekeeper and butler led the way followed by every other domestic of the house
Well my friends he cried wish her joy which I am sure you will do of your own accord for shes going to be mistress of Beech Park which I thought would have been the case with my other niece till I found out my mistakes which is of no consequence now all having ended for the best though unknown to us poor mortals
The servants obeyed with alacrity and offered their hearty congratulations to the blushing Camilla and happy Edgar Molly Mill excepted who having concluded Sir Sedley Clarendel the man doubted her own senses and instead of open felicitations whispered Camilla Dear Miss Ive got another letter for you Its here in my bosom
Camilla frightened said Hush hush while Edgar imagining the girl whose simplicity and talkativeness were familiar to him had said something ridiculous entreated to be indulged with hearing her remark but seeing Camilla look grave forbore to press his request
The baronet now began an harangue upon the happiness that would accrue from these double unions for which he assured them they should have double remembrances though the same preparations would do for both as he meant they should take place at the same time provided Mr Edgar would have the obligingness to wait for a fair wind which he was expecting every hour
Camilla could now stay no longer nor could Edgar though adoring the hearty joy of Sir Hugh refuse to aid her in absconding
He begged her permission to follow as soon as it might be possible which she tacitly accorded She was impatient herself for the important conference she was planning and felt with increasing solicitude that all her lifes happiness hung upon her power to extricate herself honourably from the terrible embarrassment in which she was involved
She sauntered about the hall till the servants came out anxious to receive the letter which Molly Mill had announced They all sought to surround her with fresh good wishes but she singled out Molly and begged the rest to leave her for the present The letter however was not unpinned from the inside of Mollys neck handkerchief before Edgar eager and gay joined her
Trembling then she entreated her to make haste
La Miss answered the girl if you hurry me so I shall tear it as sure as can be and what will you say then Miss
Well then another time will do take it to my room
No no Miss the gentleman told Tommy Hodd he wanted an answer as quick as can be he said if Tommyd come ahorseback hed pay for the horse to make him quicker and Tommy says he always behaves very handsome
She then gave her the squeezed billet Camilla in great confusion put it into her pocket Edgar who even unavoidably heard what passed held back till Molly retired and then with an air of undisguised surprise and curiosity though in a laughing tone said Must not the letter be read till I make my bow
O yes cried she stammering it may be read at any time And she put her hand in her pocket to reproduce it But the idea of making known the strange and unexpected history she had to relate by shewing so strange a correspondence without one leading and softening previous circumstance required a force and confidence of which she was not mistress She twisted it therefore hastily round to hide the handwriting of the direction and then with the same care rolled it up and encircled it with her fingers
Shall I be jealous said he gently though disappointed
You have much reason she answered with a smile so soft it dispersed every fear yet with an attention so careful to conceal the address that it kept alive every wonder He took her other hand and kissing it cried No sweetest Camilla such unworthy distrust shall make no part of our compact Yet I own myself a little interested to know what gentleman has obtained a privilege I should myself prize above almost any other I will leave you however to read the letter and perhaps before you answer it but no I will ask nothing I shall lose all pleasure in your confidence if it is not spontaneous I will go and find your sisters
The first impulse of Camilla was to commit to him immediately the unopened letter but the fear of its contents its style its requisitions made her terror overpower her generosity and though she looked after him with regret she stood still to break the seal of her letter
Miss Camilla Tyrold
Is it thus O far too fair tormenter thou delightest to torture Dost thou give wings but to clip them raise expectation but to bid it linger fan bright the flame of hope but to see it consume in its own ashes Another delay Ah tell me how I may exist till it terminates Name to me O fair tyrant some period or build not upon longer forbearance but expect me at your feet You talk of the Grove its fair owner is just returned and calls herself impatient to see you Tomorrow then you will not I trust kill me again tomorrow With the sun the renovating sun I will visit those precincts nor quit them till warned away by the pale light of Diana tell me then to what century of that period your ingenious cruelty condemns me to this expiring state ere a vivifying smile recalls me back to life
Sedley Clarendel
The immediate presence of Edgar himself could not have made this letter dye the cheeks of Camilla of a deeper red She saw that Sir Sedley thought her only coquetishly trifling and she looked forward with nearly equal horror to clearing up a mistake that might embitter his future life and to acknowledging to Edgar the scrupulous the scrutinising the delicate Edgar that such a mistake could have been formed
She was ruminating upon this formidable this terrible task when Edgar again appeared accompanied by her sisters She hurried the letter into her pocket Edgar saw the action with a concern that dampt his spirits he wished to obtain from her immediately the unlimited trust which immediately and for ever he meant to repose in her They all strolled together for a short time in the park but she was anxious to retreat to her room and her sisters were dying with impatience to read Sir Sedleys letter Edgar disturbed to see how little any of their countenances accorded with the happy feelings he had so recently experienced proposed not to lengthen the walk but flattered himself upon reentering the house Camilla would afford him a few minutes of explanation But she only with a faint smile said she should soon return to the parlour and he saw Molly Mill eagerly waiting for her upon the stairs and heard her in reply to some question concerning Tommy Hodd desire the girl to be quiet till she got to her room
Edgar could form no idea of what all this meant yet that some secret disturbance preyed upon Camilla that some gentleman wrote to her and expected impatiently an answer and that the correspondence passed neither through her friends nor by the post but by the medium of Molly Mill were circumstances not less unaccountable than unpleasant
Camilla meanwhile produced the letter to her sisters beseeching their ablest counsel See but she cried how dreadfully unprepared is Sir Sedley for the event of the day And oh how yet more unprepared must be Edgar for seeing that such a letter could ever be addressed to me How shall I shew it him my dear sisters how help his believing I must have given every possible encouragement ere Sir Sedley could have written to me in so assured a style
Much deliberation ensued but they were all so perplexed that they were summoned to tea before they had come to any resolution
The counsel of Eugenia then prevailed and it was settled that Camilla should avoid for the present any communication to Edgar lest it should lead to mischief between him and the young baronet who could not but be mutually displeased with each other and that the next morning before she saw Edgar again she should set out for the Grove and there cast herself wholly upon the generosity of Sir Sedley and when freed from all engagement return and relate without reserve the whole history to Edgar who would so soon be brother of her brother that he would pardon the faults of Lionel and who would then be in no danger himself from personal contest or discussion with Sir Sedley She wrote therefore one line to say she would see Mrs Arlbery early the next day and delivered it to Molly Mill who promised to borrow a horse of the undergroom that Tommy Hodd might be back before bedtime without any obligation to Sir Sedley
She then went down stairs when Edgar disappointed by her long absence sought vainly to recompense it by conversing with her She was gentle but seated herself aloof and avoided his eyes
His desire to unravel so much mystery he thought now so legitimated by his peculiar situation that he was frequently upon the point of soliciting for information but to know himself privileged upon further reflexion was sufficient to insure his forbearance Even when that knot was tied which would give to him all power he sincerely meant to owe all her trust to willing communication Should he now then make her deem him exacting and tenacious of prerogative no it might shackle the freedom of her mind in their future intercourse He would quietly therefore wait her own time and submit to her own inclination She could not doubt his impatience he would not compel her generosity
CHAPTER VII
The Triumph of Pride
The three sisters were retired at night to another council in the room of Camilla when Molly Mill with a look of dismay burst in upon them bringing with the answer of Sir Sedley news that Tommy Hodd by an accident he could not help had rode the horse she had borrowed for him of the undergroom to death
The dismay now spread equally to them all What a tale would this misfortune unfold to Sir Hugh to Edgar to the whole house The debt of Lionel the correspondence with Sir Sedley the expectations of the young baronet Camilla could not support it she sent for Jacob to own to him the affair and beg his assistance
Jacob though getting into bed obeyed the call He was however so much irritated at the loss of the horse and the boldness of the undergroom in lending him without leave that at first he would listen to no entreaties and protested that both the boy and Molly Mill should be complained of to his master The eloquence however of his three young mistresses for so all the nieces of Sir Hugh were called by the servants at Cleves soon softened his ire he almost adored his master and was affectionately attached to the young family They begged him therefore to buy another horse as like it as possible and to contrive not to employ it when Sir Hugh was in sight till they were able to clear up the history to their uncle themselves this would not be difficult as the baronet rarely visited his stables since his fall from the melancholy with which he was filled by the sight of his horses
There was to be a fair for cattle in the neighbourhood the next day and Jacob promised to ride over to see what bargain he could make for them
They then inquired about what money would be necessary for the purchase
The cost he said of poor Tom Jones was 40£
Camilla held up her hands almost screaming Eugenia with more presence of mind said they would see him again in the morning before he went and then told Molly Mill to wait for her in her own room
What can I now do cried Camilla I would not add the history of this dreadful expence to the sad tale I have already to relate to Edgar for the universe To begin my career by such a string of humiliations would be insupportable Already I owe five guineas to Mrs Arlbery which the tumult of my mind since my return has prevented me from naming to my uncle and I have left debts at Tunbridge that will probably take up all my next quarters allowance
As far as these three guineas will go said Lavinia taking out her purse here my dearest Camilla they are but how little that is I never before thought my pittance too small yet how well we all know my dear father cannot augment it
Eugenia who in haste had stept to her own room now came back and putting twenty guineas into the hand of Camilla said This my beloved sister is all I now have by me but Jacob is rich and good and will rejoice to pay the rest for us at present and I shall very soon reimburse him for my uncle has insisted upon making me a very considerable present which I shall now no longer refuse
Camilla burst into tears and hanging about their necks O my sisters she cried what goodness is yours but how can I avail myself of it with any justice Your three guineas my Lavinia your little all how can I bear to take
Do not teach me to repine my dear Camilla that I have no more I am sure of being remembered by my uncle on the approaching occasions and I can never therefore better spare my little store
You are all kindness and you my dear Eugenia though you have more have claims upon that more and are both expected and used to answer them
Yes I have indeed more interrupted Eugenia which only sisters good as mine could pardon but because my uncle has made me his heiress has he made me a brute No whatever I have must be amongst us all in common not only now but She stopt affrighted at the idea she was presenting to herself and fervently clasping her hands exclaimed O long long may it be ere I can shew my sisters all I feel for them they will believe it I am sure and that is far happier
The idea this raised struck them all at the same moment to the heart Not one of them had dry eyes and with a sadness overpowering every other consideration they sighed as heavily and with looks as disconsolate as if the uncle so dear to them were already no more
The influence of parts, the predominance of knowledge, the honour of learning the captivation of talents and even the charm of fame itself all shrink in their effects before the superior force of goodness even where most simple and uncultivated for power over the social affections
At an early hour the next morning the commission with the twenty guineas in hand and the promise of the rest in a short time were given to Jacob and Camilla then begged permission of her father and the carriage of her uncle to visit Mrs Arlbery who she had heard was just returned to the Grove
Concluding she wished to be the messenger of her own affairs to that lady they made no opposition and she set off before eight oclock without entering the parlour where Edgar she was informed was already arrived for breakfast
The little journey was terrible to her scenes of disappointment and despair on the part of Sir Sedley were anticipated by her alarmed imagination and she reproached herself for every word she had ever spoken every look she had ever given that could have raised any presumption of her regard
The last note was written in the style of all the others and not one ever expressed the smallest doubt of success how dreadful then to break to him such news at the very moment he might imagine she came to meet him with partial pleasure
Mrs Arlbery was not yet risen Camilla inquired stammering if any company were at the house None was the answer She then begged leave to walk in the garden till Mrs Arlbery came down stairs
She was not sorry to miss her she dreaded her yet more than Sir Sedley himself and hoped to see him alone
Nevertheless she remained a full hour in waiting ruminating upon the wonder her disappearance would give to Edgar and nearly persuaded some chance had anticipated her account to Sir Sedley whose rage and grief were too violent to suffer him to keep his appointment
This idea served but to add to her perturbation when at last she saw him enter the garden
All presence of mind then forsook her she looked around to see if she could escape but his approach was too quick for avoidance Her eyes unable to encounter his were bent upon the ground and she stood still and even trembling till he reached her
To the prepossessed notions and vain character of Sir Sedley these were symptoms by no means discouraging with a confidence almost amounting to arrogance he advanced pitying her distress yet pitying himself still more for the snare in which it was involving him He permitted his eyes for a moment to fasten upon her to admire her and to enjoy triumphantly her confusion in silence Ah beauteous tyrant he then cried if this instant were less inappreciable in what language could I upbraid thy unexampled abuse of power thy lacerating barbarity
He then almost by force took her hand she struggled eagerly to recover it but No he cried fair torturer it is now my prisoner and must be punished for its inhuman sins in the congealing and unmerciful lines it has portrayed for me
And then regardless of her resistance which he attributed to mere bashfulness he obstinately and incessantly devoured it with kisses in defiance of opposition supplication or anger till suddenly and piercingly she startled him with a scream and snatched it away with a force irresistible
Amazed he stared at her Her face was almost convulsed with emotion but her eyes which appeared to be fixed directed him to the cause At the bottom of the walk which was only a few yards distant stood Mandlebert
Pale and motionless he looked as if bereft of strength and faculties Camilla had seen him the moment she raised her eyes and her horror was uncontrollable Sir Sedley astonished at what he beheld astonished what to think drew back with a supercilious kind of bow Edgar recalled by what he thought insolence to his recollection advanced a few steps and addressing himself to Camilla said I had the commands of Sir Hugh to pursue you Miss Tyrold to give you immediate notice that Mr Lynmere is arrived He added no more deigned not a look at Sir Sedley but rapidly retreated remounted his horse and galloped off
Camilla looked after him till he was out of sight with uplifted hands and eyes deploring his departure his mistake and his resentment without courage to attempt stopping him
Sir Sedley stood suspended how to act what to judge If Edgars was the displeasure of a discarded lover why should it so affect Camilla if of a successful one why came she to meet him why had she received and answered his notes
Finding she attempted neither to speak nor move he again approached her and saying Fair Incomprehensible would again have taken her hand but rousing to a sense of her situation she drew back and with some dignity but more agitation cried Sir Sedley I blush if I am culpable of any part of your mistake but suffer me now to be explicit and let me be fully finally and not too late understood You must write to me no more I cannot answer nor read your letters You must speak to me no more except in public society you must go further Sir Sedley you must think of me no more
Horrible cried he starting back you distress me past measure
No no you will soon easily readily forget me
Inhuman you make me unhappy past thought
Indeed I am inexpressibly concerned but the whole affair
You shock you annihilate me you injure me in the tenderest point
Camilla now amazed cried what is it you mean sir
By investing me fair barbarian with the temerity of forming any claim that can call for repulse
Utterly confounded by so unexpected a disclaiming of all design she again though from far different sensations cast up her eyes and hands And is it she thought for a trifler such as this so unmeaning so unfeeling I have risked my whole of hope and happiness
She said however no more for what more could be said She coloured past him and hastily quitting the garden told the footman to apologise to Mrs Arlbery for her sudden departure by informing her that a near relation was just arrived from abroad and then got into the carriage and drove back to Cleves Sir Sedley followed carelessly yet without aiming at overtaking her and intreated negligently to be heard yet said nothing which required the smallest answer
Piqued completely and mortified to the quick by the conviction which now broke in upon him of the superior ascendance of Mandlebert he could not brook to have been thought in earnest when he saw he should not have been accepted nor pardon his own vanity the affront it had brought upon his pride He sung aloud an opera air till the carriage of Sir Hugh was out of sight and then drove his phaeton to ClarendelPlace where he instantly ordered his postchaise and in less than an hour set off on a tour to the Hebrides
CHAPTER VIII
A Summons to Happiness
Camilla had but just set out from Cleves when Sir Hugh consulting his weathercocks which a new chain of ideas had made him forget to examine saw that the wind was fair for the voyage of his nephew and heard upon inquiry that the favourable change had taken place the preceding day though the general confusion of the house had prevented it from being heeded by any of the family
With eagerness the most excessive he went to the room of Eugenia and bid her put on a smart hat to walk out with him as there was no knowing how soon a certain person might arrive
Eugenia colouring said she would rather stay within
Well cried he youll be neater to be sure for not blowing about in the wind so Ill go take tother girls
Eugenia left alone became exceedingly fluttered She could not bear to remain in the house under the notion of so degrading a consideration as owing any advantage to outward appearance and fearing her uncle in his extreme openness should give that reason for her not walking she determined to take a stroll by herself in the park
She bent her steps towards a small wood at some distance from the house where she meant to rest herself and read for she had learnt of Dr Orkborne never to be unprovided with a book But she had not yet reached her place of intended repose when the sound of feet made her turn round and to her utter consternation she saw a young man whose boots whip and foreign air announced instantly to be Clermont Lynmere
She doubted not but he was sent in pursuit of her and though youthful timidity prompted her to shun him she retained sufficient command over herself to check it and to stop till he came up to her while he neither quickening nor slackening his pace as he approached passed her with so little attention that she was presently convinced he had scarce even perceived her
Disconcerted by a meeting so strange and so ill timed she involuntarily stood still without any other power than that of looking after him
In a few minutes Molly Mill running up to her cried Dear Miss have not you seen young Mr Lynmere He come by tother way just as master and Miss Margland and Miss Lynmere and Miss Tyrold was gone to meet him by the great gate and so he said hed come and look who he could find himself
Eugenia had merely voice to order her back The notion of having a figure so insignificant as to be passed without even exciting a doubt who she might be was cruelly mortifying She knew not how to return to the house and relate such an incident She sat down under a tree to recollect herself
Presently however she saw the stranger turn quick about and before she could rise slightly touching his hat without looking at her Pray maam he said do you belong to that house pointing to the mansion of Sir Hugh
Faintly she answered Yes sir and he then added I am just arrived and in search of Sir Hugh and the young ladies one of them they told me was this way but I can trace nobody Have you seen any of them
More and more confounded she could make no reply Inattentive to her embarrassment and still looking every way around he repeated his question She then pointed towards the great gate stammering she believed they went that way Thank you he answered with a nod and then hurried off
She now thought no more of moving nor of rising she felt a kind of stupor in which fixed and without reflection she remained till startled by the sound of her uncles voice she got up made what haste she was able to the house by a private path and ascended to her own room by a back stair case
That an interview to which she had so long looked forward for which with unwearied assiduity she had so many years laboured to prepare herself and which was the declared precursor of the most important æra of her life should pass over so abruptly and be circumstanced so aukwardly equally dispirited and confused her
In a few minutes Molly Mill entering said Theyre all come back and Sir Hughs fit to eat the young squire up and no wonder for hes a sweet proper gentleman as ever I see Come miss I hope youll put on something else for that hat makes you look worse than any thing. I would not have the young squire see you such a figure for never so much
The artlessness of unadorned truth however sure in theory of extorting administration rarely in practice fails inflicting pain or mortification The simple honesty of Molly redoubled the chagrin of her young mistress who sending her away went anxiously to the lookingglass whence in a few moments she perceived her uncle from the window laughing and making significant signs to some one out of her sight Extremely ashamed to be so surprised she retreated to the other end of the room though not till she had heard Sir Hugh say Ay ay shes getting ready for you I told you why she would not walk out with us so dont lets hurry her though I cant but commend your being a little impatient which I dare say so is she only young girls cant so well talk about it
Eugenia now found that Clermont had no suspicion he had seen her Sir Hugh concluded she had not left her room and asked no questions that could lead to the discovery
Presently the baronet came up stairs himself and tapping at her door said Come my dear dont be too curious the breakfast having been spoilt this hour already besides your cousins having nothing on himself but his riding dress
Happy she could at least clear herself from so derogatory a design she opened her door Sir Hugh surveying her with a look of surprise and vexation exclaimed What my dear ant you dizend yet why I thought to have seen you in all your best things
No sir answered she calmly I shall not dress till dinnertime
My dear girl cried he kindly though a little distressed how to explain himself theres no need you should look worse than you can help though you can do better things I know than looking well at any time only what I mean is you should let him see you to the best advantage at the first for fear of his taking any dislike before he knows about Dr Orkborne and that
Dislike sir repeated she extremely hurt if you think he will take any dislike I had better not see him at all
My dear girl you quite mistake me owing to my poor heads always using the wrong word which is a remarkable thing that I cant help But I dont mean in the least to doubt his being pleased with you except only at the beginning from not being used to you for as to all your studies theres no more Greek and Latin in one bodys face than in anothers but however if you wont dress theres no need to keep the poor boy in hot water for nothing
He then took her hand and rather dragged than drew her down stairs saying as they went I must wish you joy though for I assure you hes a very fine lad and hardly a bit of a coxcomb
The family was all assembled in the parlour except Camilla for whom the baronet had instantly dispatched Edgar and Mr Tyrold who was not yet returned from a morning ride but for whom Sir Hugh had ordered the great dinner bell to be rung as a signal of something extraordinary
Young Lynmere was waiting the arrival of Eugenia with avowed and unbridled impatience Far from surmising it was her he had met in the park he had concluded it was one of the maids and thought of her no more He asked a thousand questions in a breath when his uncle was gone Was she tall was she short was she plump was she lean was she fair was she brown was she florid was she pale But as he asked them of every body nobody answered yet all were in some dismay at a curiosity implying such entire ignorance except Indiana who could not without simpering foresee the amazement of her brother at her cousins person and appearance
Heres a noble girl for you cried Sir Hugh opening the door with a flourish for all shes got so many best things shes come down in her worst for the sake of looking ill at the beginning to the end that there may be no fault to be found afterwards which is the wiseness that does honour to her education
This was perhaps the first time an harangue from the baronet had been thought too short but the surprise of young Lynmere at the view of his destined bride made him wish he would speak on merely to annul any necessity for speaking himself Eugenia aimed in vain to recover the calmness of her nature or to borrow what might resemble it from her notions of female dignity The injudicious speech of Sir Hugh but publicly forcing upon the whole party the settled purpose of the interview covered her with blushes and gave a tremor to her frame that obliged her precipitately to seat herself while her joined hands supplicated his silence
Well my dear well said he kissing her dont let me vex you what I said having no meaning except for the best though your cousin might as well have saluted you before you sat down I think which however I suppose may be out of fashion now every thing changing since my time which Lord help me it will take me long enough to learn
Lynmere noticed not this hint and they all seated themselves round the breakfast table Sir Hugh scarce able to refrain from crying for joy and continually exclaiming This is the happiest day of all my life for all Ive lived so long To see us all together at last and my dear boy come home to his native old England
Miss Margland made the tea and young Lynmere instantly and almost voraciously began eating of every thing that was upon the table Indiana when she saw her brother as handsome as her cousin was deformed thought the contrast so droll she could look at neither without tittering Lavinia observed with extreme concern the visible distress of her sister Dr Orkborne forbore to ruminate upon his work in expectation every moment of being called upon to converse with the learned young traveller but Sir Hugh alone spoke though his delight and his loquacity joined to his pleasure in remarking the good old English appetite which his nephew had brought with him from foreign parts prevented his being struck with the general taciturnity
The entrance of Mr Tyrold proved a relief to all the party though a pain to himself He suffered in seeing the distressed confusion of Eugenia and felt something little short of indignation at the supercilious air with which Clermont seemed to examine her holding his head high and back as if measuring his superior height while every line round his mouth marked that ridicule was but suppressed by contempt
When Sir Hugh at length observed that the young traveller uttered not a syllable he exclaimed Lord help us what fools it makes of us being overjoyed here am I talking all the talk to myself while my young scholar says nothing which I take to be owing to my speaking only English which however I should not do if it was not for the misfortune of knowing no other which I cant properly call a fault being out of no idleness as that gentleman can witness for me for Ill warrant nobodys taken more pains but our heads wont always do what we want
He then gave a long and melancholy detail of his studies and their failure
When the carriage arrived with Camilla young Lynmere loitered to a window to look at it Eugenia arose meaning to seize the opportunity to escape to her room but seeing him turn round upon her moving she again sat down experiencing for the first time a sensation of shame for her lameness which hitherto she had regularly borne with fortitude when she had not forgotten from indifference neither did she feel spirits to exhibit again before his tall and strikingly elegant figure her diminutive little person
Camilla entered with traces of a disordered mind too strongly marked in her countenance to have escaped observation had she been looked at with any attention But Eugenia and Lynmere ingrossed all eyes and all thoughts Even herself at first sight of the husband elect of her sister lost for a moment all personal consideration and looked at him only with the interesting idea of the future fate of Eugenia But it was only for a moment when she turned round and saw nothing of Edgar when her uncles inquiry what had become of him convinced her he was gone elsewhere her heart sunk she felt sick and would have glided out of the room had not Sir Hugh thinking her faint for want of her breakfast begged Miss Margland to make her some fresh tea adding As this is a day in which I intend us all to be happy alike I beg nobody will go out of the room for the sake of our enjoying it all together
This summons to happiness produced the usual effect of such calls a general silence succeeded by a general yawning and a universal secret wish of separation to the single exception of Sir Hugh who after a pause said Why nobody speaks but me which I really think odd enough However my dear nephew if you dont care for our plain English conversation which indeed after all your studies one cant much wonder at nobody can be against you and the Doctor jabbering together a little of your Greek and Latin
Lynmere letting fall his bread upon the table leaned back in his chair and sticking his hands in his side looked at his uncle with an air of astonishment
Nay continued the baronet I dont pretend I should be much the wiser for it however its what Ive no objection to hear so come Doctor youre the oldest break the ice
A verse of Horace with which Dr Orkborne was opening his answer was stopt short by the eager manner in which Lynmere reseized his bread with one hand while with the other to the great discomposure of the exact Miss Margland he stretched forth for the teapot to pour out a bason of tea not ceasing the libation till the saucer itself overcharged sent his beverage in trickling rills from the tablecloth to the floor
The ladies all moved some paces from the table to save their clothes and Miss Margland reproachfully inquired if she had not made his tea to his liking
Dont mind it I beg my dear boy cried Sir Hugh a little slops soon wiped up and were all friends so dont let that stop your Latin
Lynmere noticing neither the Latin the mischief nor the consolation finished his tea in one draught and then said Pray sir where do you keep all your newspapers
Newspapers my dear nephew Ive got no newspapers what would you have us do with a mere set of politics that not one of us understand in point of what may be their true drift now were all met together opurpose to be comfortable
No newspapers sir cried Lynmere rising and vehemently ringing the bell and with a scornful laugh adding half between his teeth Ha ha live in the country without newspapers a good joke faith
A servant appearing he gave orders for all the morning papers that could be procured
Sir Hugh looked much amazed but presently starting up said My dear nephew I believe Ive caught your meaning at last for if you mean as I take for granted that were all rather dull company why Ill take your hint and leave you and a certain person together to make a better acquaintance which you cant do so well while were all by on account of modesty
Eugenia frightened almost to sickness was caught by her two sisters and Mr Tyrold tenderly compassionating her apprehensions whispered to Sir Hugh to dispense with a têteàtête so early and taking her hand accompanied her himself to her room composing and reassuring her by the way
Sir Hugh though vexed then followed to issue some particular orders the rest of the party dispersed and young Lynmere remained with his sister
Walking on tiptoe to the door he shut it and put his ear to the keyhole till he no longer heard any footstep Turning then hastily round he flung himself full length upon a sofa and burst into so violent a fit of laughter he was forced to hold his sides
Indiana tittering said Well brother how do you like her
Like her he repeated when able to speak why the old gentleman doats He can never else seriously suppose Ill marry her
He he he yes but he does indeed brother Hes got every thing ready
Has he faith cried Lynmere again rolling on the sofa almost suffocated with violent laughter from which suddenly recovering he started up to stroam to a large lookingglass and standing before it in an easy and most assured attitude Much obliged to him pon honour he exclaimed Dont you think turning carelessly yet in an elegant position round to his sister dont you think I am Indiana
Me brother la Im sure I think shes the ugliest little fright poor thing I ever saw in the world poor thing such a little short dumpty hump backed crooked limping figure of a fright poor thing
Yes yes cried he changing his posture but still undauntedly examining himself before the glass he has taken amazing care of me I confess matched me most exactly
Then sitting down as if to consider the matter more seriously he took Indiana by the arm and with some displeasure said Why what does the old quoz mean Does he want me to toss him in a blanket
Indiana tittered more than ever at this idea till her brother angrily demanded of her why she had not written herself some description of this young Hecate to prepare him for her sight Sir Hugh having merely given him to understand that she was not quite beautiful
Indiana had no excuse to plead but that she did not think of it She had indeed grown up with an aversion to writing in common with whatever else gave trouble or required attention and her correspondence with her brother rarely produced more than two letters in a year which were briefly upon general topics and read by the whole family
She now related to him the history of the will and the vow which only in an imperfect and but halfcredited manner had reached him
His laughter than gave place to a storm of rage He called himself ruined blasted undone and abused Sir Hugh as a goodfornothing dotard defrauding him of his just rights and expectations
Why thats the reason said Indiana he wants to marry you to cousin Eugenia because he says its to make you amends
This led him to a rather more serious consideration of the affair for he protested the money was what he could not do without Yet again parading to the glass What a shame Indiana he cried what a shame would it be to make such a sacrifice If hell only pay a trifle of money for me and give me a few odd hundreds to begin with Ill hold him quit of all else so hell but quit me of that wizen little stump
A newspaper procured from the nearest public house being now brought he pinched Indiana by the chin said she was the finest girl he had seen in England and whistled off to his appointed chamber
Clermont Lynmere so entirely resembled his sister in person that now in his first youth he might almost have been taken for her even without change of dress but the effect produced upon the beholders bore not the same parallel what in her was beauty in its highest delicacy in him seemed effeminacy in its lowest degradation The brilliant fairness of his forehead the transparent pink of his cheeks the pouting vermillion of his lips the liquid lustre of his languishing blue eyes the minute form of his almost infantine mouth and the snowy whiteness of his small hands and taper fingers far from bearing the attraction which in his sister rendered them so lovely made him considered by his own sex as an unmanly fop and by the women as too conceited to admire any thing but himself
With respect to his understanding his superiority over his sister was rather in education than in parts and in practical intercourse with the world than in any higher reasoning faculties His character like his person wanted maturing the one being as distinct from intellectual decision as the other from masculine dignity He had youth without diffidence sprightliness without wit opinion without judgment and learning without knowledge Yet as he contemplated his fine person in the glass he thought himself without one external fault and early cast upon his own responsibility was not conscious of one mental deficiency
CHAPTER IX
Offs and Ons
Mr Tyrold left Eugenia to her sisters unwilling to speak of Lynmere till he had seen something more of him Sir Hugh also was going for he had no time he said to lose in his preparations but Eugenia taking his arm besought that nothing of that kind might at present be mentioned
Dont trouble yourself about that my dear he answered for its what I take all into my own hands your cousin being a person that dont talk much by which how can any thing be brought forward if nobody interferes A girl you know my dear cant speak for herself let her wish it never so much
Alas said Eugenia when he was gone how painfully am I situated Clermont will surely suppose this precipitance all mine and already possibly concludes it is upon my suggestion he has thus prematurely been called from his travels and impeded in his praiseworthy ambition of studying the laws, manners and customs of the different nations of Europe
The wan countenance of Camilla soon however drew all observation upon herself and obliged her to narrate the cruel adventure of the morning
The sisters were both petrified by the account of Sir Sedley and their compassion for his expected despair was changed into disgust at his insulting impertinence They were of opinion that his bird and his letters should immediately be returned and their horror of any debt with a character mingling such presumption with such levity made Eugenia promise that as soon as she was mistress of so much money she would send him in the name of Lionel his two hundred pounds
The bird therefore by Tom Hodd was instantly conveyed to ClarendelPlace but the letters Camilla retained till she could first shew them to Edgar if this event had not lost him to her for ever and if he manifested any desire of an explanation
Edgar himself meanwhile in a paroxysm of sudden misery and torturing jealousy had galloped furiously to the rector of Cleves
O Doctor Marchmont he cried what a tale have I now to unfold Within these last twentyfour hours I have been the most wretched the happiest and again the most agonized of human beings I have thought Camilla bestowed upon another I have believed her oh Doctor my own I have conceived myself at the summit of all earthly felicity I find myself at this moment deluded and undone
He then detailed the account calling upon the Doctor to unravel to him the insupportable ænigma of his destiny to tell him for what purpose Camilla had shewn him a tenderness so bewitching at the very time she was carrying on a clandestine intercourse with another with a man who though destitute neither of wit nor good qualities it was impossible she should love since she was as incapable of admiring as of participating in his defects To what incomprehensible motives attribute such incongruities Why accept and suffer her friends to accept him if engaged to Sir Sedley why if seriously meaning to be his this secret correspondence Why so early so private so strange a meeting Whence Doctor Marchmont the daring boldness of his seizing her hand whence the nevertobeforgotten licence with which he presumed to lift it to his lips and there hardily to detain it so as never man durst do whose hopes were not all alive from his own belief in their encouragement explain expound to me this work of darkness and amazement tell me why with every appearance of the most artless openness I find her thus eternally disingenuous and unintelligible why though I have cast myself wholly into her power she retains all her mystery she heightens it into deceit next perjury
Ask me my dear young friend why the sun does not give night and the moon day then why women practise coquetry Alas my season for surprise has long been passed They will rather trifle even with those they despise than be candid even with those they respect The young baronet probably has been making his court to her or she has believed such was his design but as you first came to the point she would not hazard rejecting you while uncertain if he were serious She was possibly putting him to the test by the account of your declaration at the moment of your unseasonable intrusion
If this Doctor is your statement and if your statement is just in how despicable a lottery have I risked the peace of my life You suppose then that if sure of Sir Sedley I am discarded
You know what I think of your situation can I when to yet more riches I add a title suppose that of Sir Sedley less secure
The shuddering start the distracted look of Edgar with his hand clapped to his burning forehead now alarmed the Doctor who endeavoured to somewhat soften his sentence dissuading him against any immediate measures and advising him to pass over these first moments of emotion and then coolly to suffer inquiry to take place of decision But Edgar could not hear him he shook hands with him faintly smiled as an apology for not speaking and hurrying off without waiting for his servant galloped towards the New Forest leaving his absence from Cleves to declare his defection and bent only to fly from Camilla and all that belonged to her
All however that belonged to Camilla was precisely what followed him pursued him in every possible form clung to his heartstrings almost maddened his senses He could not bear to reflect retrospection was torture anticipation was horror To lose thus without necessity without calamity the object of his dearest wishes to lose her from mere declension of esteem
Any inevitable evil he cried I could have sustained any blow of fortune however severe any stroke of adversity however terrible but this this error of all my senses this deception of all my hopes this extinction of every feeling I have cherished—
He rode on yet harder leaping over every thing thoughtless rather than fearless of every danger he could encounter and galloping with the speed and violence of some pursuit though wholly without view and almost without consciousness; as if hoping by flight to escape from the degenerate portrait of Camilla but its painter was his own imagination and mocked the attempt
From the other side of a fivebarred gate which with almost frantic speed he was approaching with a view to clear a voice hallood to stop him and at the same time a man who was leading one horse and riding another dismounted and called out Why as sure as Im alive its Squire Mandlebert
Edgar now perceiving Jacob was going to turn back to avoid him but restraining this first movement faintly desired him to stand by as he had not a moment to lose
Good lack cried Jacob with the freedom of an old servant who had known him from a boy why I would not but have happened to come this way for never so much why you might have broke your neck else Leap such a gate as this here why I cant let you do no such a thing Miss Camillas like a child of my own as one may say and shell never hold up her head again Ill be bound for it if you should come to any harm and as to poor old master twould go nigh to break his heart
Struck with words which from so faithful an old servant could not but be touching Edgar was brought suddenly to himself and felt the claim of the Tyrold family for a conduct more guarded He endeavoured to put his own feelings apart and consider how best he might spare those of the friends of Camilla those of Camilla herself he concluded to be out of his reach except as they might simply relate to the female pride and vanity of refusing rather than being given up
He paused now to weigh how he might obviate any offence and after first resolving to write a sort of general leavetaking and next seeing the almost insuperable objections to whatever he could state determined upon gaining time for deliberation by merely commissioning Jacob to carry a message to Cleves that some sudden affairs called him for the present to a distant part of the country This at such a period would create a surprise that might lead the way to what would follow and Camilla who could not he thought be much astonished might then take her own measures for the defection she would see reason to expect
But Jacob resisted bearing the intelligence Good lack sir he cried what have you got in your head something that will do you no good Ill be bound by the look of your eyes which look as big as if they was both going to drop out youd better come yourself and tell em whats the matter and speak a word to poor Miss Camilla or shell never believe but what some ill has betided you Why we all knew about it fast enough before our master told us servants have eyes as well as their masters only Mary will have it she found it out at the first which ant true for I saw it by the time youd been a week in the house and if youll take my word squire I dont think theres such another heart in the world as Miss Camillas except just my own old masters
Edgar leant against his horse neither speaking nor moving yet involuntarily listening while deeply sighing
What a power of good shell do continued Jacob when shes mistress of Beech Park I warrant shell go about visiting the poor and making them clothes and broths and wine possets and babylinen all day long She has done it at Etherington quite from a child and when she had nothing to give em she used to take her thread papers and needle books and sit down and work for them and carry them bits and scraps of things to help em to patch their gowns Why when shes got your fine fortunes shell bring a blessing upon the whole county
Edgar felt touched his wrath was softened into tenderness and he ejaculated to himself Such indeed I thought Camilla active in charity gentle in good works I thought that in putting my fortune into her hands I was serving the unhappy feeding the indigent reviving the sick
Master continued Jacob took a fancy to her from the very first as well as I and when master said she was coming to live with us I asked to make it a holiday for all our folks and master was as pleased as I But nobodyd think what a tender heart shes got of her own without knowing her because of her singing and laughing and dancing so except when old Miss Marglands in the way whos what Mr Lionel calls a killjoy at any time Howbeit Ill take special care she shant be by when I tell her of my stopping you from breaking your neck here but I wish you could be in a corner yourself to peep at her without her knowing it Ill warrant you shell give me such a smile youd be fit to eat her
Shaken once more in every resolution because uncertain in every opinion Edgar found the indignant desperation which had seized him begin to subside and his mind again become assailable by something resembling hope Almost instinctively he remounted his horse and almost involuntarily drawn on by hearkening to the praise of Camilla and fascinated by the details made by Jacob of her regard accompanied him back to Cleves
As they rode into the park and while he was earnestly endeavouring to form some palliation by which he might exculpate what seemed to him so guilty in the strange meeting and its strange circumstances he perceived Camilla herself walking upon the lawn He saw she had observed him and saw from her air she seemed irresolute if to reenter the house or await him
Jacob significantly pointing her out offered to shew the effect he could produce by what he could relate but Edgar giving him the charge of his horse earnestly besought him to retire in quiet and to keep his opinions and experiments to himself
Each now separately and with nearly equal difficulty strove to attain fortitude to seek an explanation They approached each other Camilla with her eyes fixed upon the ground her air embarrassed and her cheeks covered with blushes Edgar with quick but almost tottering steps his eyes wildly avoiding hers and his complexion pale even to indisposition
When they were met within a few yards they stopt Camilla still without courage to look up and Edgar striving to speak but finding no passage for his voice Camilla then ashamed of her situation raised her eyes and forced herself to say Have you been into the house Have you seen my cousin Lynmere
No madam
Struck with a cold formality that never before from Edgar had reached her ears and shocked by the sight of his estranged and altered countenance with the cruel consciousness that appearances authorised the most depreciating suspicions she advanced and holding out her hand Edgar she gently cried are you ill or only angry
O Camilla he answered can you deign to use to me such a word can you distort my dearest affections convulse my fairest hopes eradicate every power of happiness yet speak with so much sweetness yet look at me with such mildness such softness I had almost said such kindness
Deeply affected she could hardly stand He had taken her offered hand but in a manner so changed from the same action the preceding day that she scarce knew if he touched while he held it scarce felt that he relinquished as almost immediately she withdrew it
But her condescension at this moment was rather a new torment than any solace to him The hand which she proferred and which the day before he had received as the token of permanent felicity he had now seen in the possession of another with every licence every apparent mark of permitted rapture in which he had been indulged himself He knew not to whom it of right belonged and the doubt not merely banished happiness but mingled resentment with misery
I see cried she after a mortified pause you have lost your good opinion of me I can only therefore She stopt but his melancholy silence was a confirmation of her suggestion that offended her into more exertion and with sensibility raised into dignity she added only hope your intended tour to the Continent may take place without delay
She would then have walked on to the house but following her Is all over he cried and is it thus Camilla we part
Why not said she suppressing a sigh yet turning back
What a question cruel Camilla Is this all the explanation you allow me
What other do you wish
All every other that meeting those letters
If you have any curiosity yet remaining only name what you desire
Are you indeed so good cried he in a voice that shewed his soul again melting those letters then
You shall have them every one she cried with alacrity and instantly taking out her pocketbook presented him with the prepared packet
Penetrated by this unexpected openness and compliance he snatched her hand with intent to press it to his lips but again the recollection he had seen that liberty accorded to Sir Sedley joined to the sight of his writing checked him he let it go bowed his thanks with a look of grateful respect and attempting no more to stop her walked towards the summerhouse to peruse the letters
CHAPTER X
Resolutions
The sound of the dinnerbell which rang in the ears of Edgar before he reached his intended retreat would have been unnoticed if not seconded by a message from Sir Hugh who had seen him from his window
Compelled to obey though in a state of suspense almost intolerable he put up the important little packet and repaired to the dining parlour where though none were equally disturbed with himself no one was at ease Young Lynmere under an appearance of mingled assurance and apathy the effect of acquired conceit playing upon natural insipidity was secretly tormented with the rueful necessity of sacrificing either a noble fortune or his own fine person Sir Hugh felt a strange disappointment from the whole behaviour of his nephew though it was what he would not acknowledge and could not define Mr Tyrold saw with much uneasiness the glaringly apparent unsuitableness of the intended alliance Eugenia had never yet thought herself so plain and insignificant and felt as if even since the morning the smallpox had renewed its ravages and she had sunk into being shorter Indiana and Miss Margland were both acutely incensed with Mandlebert Dr Orkborne saw but small reason to expect gratitude for his labours from the supercilious negligence of the boasted young student Lavinia was disturbed for both her sisters and Camilla felt that all she valued in life depended upon the next critical hour or two
In this state of general discomfort Sir Hugh who could never be silent alone talked Having long prepared himself to look upon this meeting as a day of happiness he strove to believe for a while the whole family were peculiarly enjoying themselves but upon a dead silence which ensued upon his taking a copious draught of Madeira and water Why my dear nephew he cried putting down his goblet you dont tell us any thing? which Ive no doubt but you know why yourself However as were all met o purpose to see you I cant say I should be sorry to hear the sound of your voice provided it wont be disagreeable
We are not much—conversant sir in each others connexions I believe answered Lynmere without ceasing a moment to eat and to help himself and ordering a fresh plate at every second mouthful I have seen nothing yet of your folks hereabouts and I fancy sir you dont know a great deal of the people I have been used to
Sir Hugh having good humouredly acknowledged this to be truth was at a loss what further to purpose and imagining the taciturnity of the rest of the party to proceed from an awe of the knowledge and abilities of his nephew soon became himself so infected with fear and reverence that though he could not be silent he spoke only to those who were next him and in a whisper
When the dessert was served something like a general relief was effected by the unexpected entrance of Dr Marchmont Alarmed by the ungoverned and in him unprecedented emotions of Edgar he had been to Beech Park and finding he had not returned there had ridden on in the most uneasy uncertainty to inquire for him at Cleves
Happy to see him safe though almost smiling to see with whom he was beginning some excuse for his intrusion when the baronet saved his proceeding by calling out Well this is as good a piece of good luck as any weve met with yet Heres Dr Marchmont come to wish us joy and as hes as good a scholar as yourself nephew for any thing I know to the contrary why you need not be so afraid of speaking for the sake of our not understanding you which heres five of us can do now as well as yourself
Lynmere readily concluding Mr Tyrold and Edgar with the two Doctors made four glanced round the table to see who might be the fifth when supposing it Miss Margland he withdrew his eyes with a look of derision and turning to the butler asked what wines he might call for
Sir Hugh then proposed that they should all pair off the ignorant ones going one way and the learned ones staying another
It would be difficult to say which looked most averse to this proposition Eugenia or the young traveller who hastily said I always ride after dinner sir Is your groom at hand Can he shew me your horses
My nephew little suspects cried Sir Hugh winking Eugenia belongs to the scholars Ten to one but he thinks hes got Homer and Horace to himself But here my dear boy as youre so fond of the classics—
Clermont nimbly rising and knocking down a decanter of water in his haste but not turning back to look at it nor staying to offer any apology affected not to hear his uncle and flung hastily out of the room calling upon Indiana to follow him
In the name of all the Diavoli cried he pulling her into the park with him what does all this mean Is the old gentleman non compos whats all this stuff he descants upon so freely of scholars and classics and Homer and Horace
O you must ask Eugenia not me answered Indiana scornfully
Why what does Eugenia know of the matter
Know why every thing Shes a great scholar and has been brought up by Dr Orkborne and she talks Greek and Latin
Does she so then by the Lord shes no wife of mine Id as soon marry the old Doctor himself and Im sure hed make me as pretty a wife Greek and Latin why Id as soon tie myself to a rod Pretty sort of dinners shell give
O dear yes brother she dont care what she eats she cares for nothing but books and such kind of things
Books ha ha Books and Latin and Greek upon my faith a pretty wife the old gentleman has been so good as to find me why he must be a downright driveller
Ah brother if we had all that fortune what a different figure we should cut with it
Why yes I rather flatter myself we should No great need of five thousand a year to pore over books Ha ha faith this is a good hum enough So he thinks to take me in does he
Why you know she is so rich brother
Rich well and what am I do you see such a figure as this suddenly skipping before her every day Am I reduced to my last legs think you Do you suppose I cant meet with some kind old dowager any time these twenty years
La brother wont you have her then
No faith wont I Its not come to that neither This learning is worse than her ugliness twould make me look like a dunce in my own house
He then protested he had rather lose forty estates than so be sacrificed and vowed without venturing a direct refusal he would soon sicken the old gentleman of his scheme
Eugenia in retreating to her room was again accompanied by her father and her uncle whom she conjured now to name her to Clermont no more
I cant say I admire these puttings off my dear said the baronet in this our mortal state which is always liable to end in our dying Not that I pretend to tell you I think him over much alert but theres no knowing but what he may have some meaning in it that we cant understand a person having studied all his life has a right to a little particularity
Mr Tyrold himself now seriously interfered and desired that henceforth Clermont might be treated as if his visit to Cleves was merely to congratulate his uncle upon his recovery and that all schemes preparations and allusions might be put aside unless the youth himself and with a good grace brought them forward meanwhile he and Lavinia would return without delay to Etherington to obviate all appearance of waiting the decision of any plan
Sir Hugh was much discomfited by the exaction of such forbearance yet could the less oppose it from his own internal discontent with his nephew which he inadvertently betrayed by murmuring in his way to his chamber Theres no denying but what theyve got some oddfangled new ways of their own in those foreign parts meeting a set of old relations for the first time and saying nothing to them but asking for the newspapers Lord help us caring about the wide world so when we know nothing of it instead of ones own uncles and nephews and kinspeople
During this time Edgar almost agonised by suspence and doubt had escaped to the summerhouse whither he was followed by Dr Marchmont greatly to the wonder almost with the contempt of Dr Orkborne whom he quitted in anxiety for his young friend just as he had intimated a design to consult him upon a difficult passage in an ancient author which had a place in his work that was now nearly ready for the press
I know well Doctor said Edgar that to find me here after all that has passed will make you conclude me the weakest of men but I cannot now explain how it has been brought about these letters must first tell me if Camilla and I meet more than once again
He then hastily ran over the letters but by no means hastily could he digest nor even comprehend their contents He thought them florid affected and presuming yet vague studied with little appearance of sincerity and less of explicit decision What related to Lionel and to aiding him in the disposal of his wealth seemed least intelligible yet most like serious meaning but when he found that the interview at the Grove was by positive appointment and granted to a request made with a forwardness and assurance so wide from all delicacy and propriety the blood mounted high into his cheeks and precipitately putting up the packet he exclaimed Here then it ends the last little ray of hesitation is extinct extinct to be kindled never more
The sound of these last words caused him an emotion of sorrow he was unable to resist though unwilling to betray and he hurried out of the summerhouse to the wood where he strove to compose his mind to the last leavetaking upon which he was now determined but so dreadful was the resolution which exacted from his own mouth the resignation of all that till now had been dearest to his views and hopes that the afternoon was far advanced before he could assume sufficient courage to direct his steps to the spot where the sacrifice was to be made
Accusing himself then of weakness unpardonable he returned to the summerhouse to apologise to Dr Marchmont for his abrupt retreat but the Doctor had already reentered the mansion Thither therefore he proceeded purposing to seek Camilla to return her the letters of Sir Sedley and to desire her commands in what manner to conduct himself with her father and her uncle in acknowledging his fears that the projected union would fail of affording to either party the happiness which at first it seemed to promise
The carriage of Sir Hugh was in waiting at the door and Mr Tyrold and Lavinia were in the hall Edgar in no condition for such an encounter would have avoided them but Mr Tyrold little suspecting his desire rejoiced at the meeting saying he had had the house searched for him in vain that he might shake hands with him before his return to Etherington
Then taking him apart My dear Edgar he cried I have long loved you as tenderly and I may now confide in you as completely as if you were my son I go hence in some inquietude I fear my brother has been too hasty in making known his views with regard to Clermont who does not seem equal to appreciating the worth of Eugenia though it is evident he has not been slack in noticing her misfortunes I entreat you during my absence to examine him as if you were already the brother of that dear child who merits you well know the best and tenderest of husbands
He then followed Lavinia into the carriage prevented by his own occupied mind from observing the fallen countenance of Edgar who more wretched than ever bemoaned now the kindness of which he had hitherto been proud and lamented the paternal trust which he would have purchased the day before almost with life
Camilla during this period had gone through conflicts no less severe
Jacob who had bought a horse for which he had cheerfully advanced 20 l had informed her of the gate adventure of Edgar and told her that but for his stopping him he was riding like mad from Cleves and only sending them all a message that he could not come back
Grieved surprised and offended she instantly determined she would not risk such another mark of his cold superiority but restore to him his liberty and leave him master of himself If the severity of his judgment cried she is so much more potent than the warmth of his affection it shall not be his delicacy nor his compassion that shall make me his I will neither be the wife of his repentance nor of his pity I must be convinced of his unaltered love his esteem his trust or I shall descend to humiliation not rise to happiness in becoming his Softness here would be meanness submission degrading if he hesitates let him go
She then without weighing or even seeing one objection precipitately resolved to beg permission of her friends to accept an invitation she had received without as yet answering to meet Mrs Berlinton at Southampton where that lady was going to pass some weeks She could there she thought give the rejection which here its inviolable circumstances made her for Lionels sake afraid to risk or she could there if a full explanation should appease him find opportunity to make it with equal safety his dislike to that acquaintance rather urged than impeded her plan for her wounded spirit panted to prove its independence and dignity
Eugenia approved this elevation of sentiment and doubted not it would shew her again in her true light to Edgar and bring him with added esteem to her feet
Camilla wept with joy at the idea Ah she cried if such should be my happy fate if after hearing all my imprudence my precipitance and want of judgment he should voluntarily when wholly set free return to me I will confess to him every feeling and every failing of my heart I will open to him my whole soul and cast myself ever after upon his generosity and his goodness O my Eugenia almost on my knees could I receive a second time the vows of Edgar Mandlebert
CHAPTER XI
Ease and Freedom
Lynmere at teatime returned from his ride with a fixed plan of frightening or disgusting the baronet from the alliance with Eugenia herself he imagined the attempt would be vain for he did not conceive it possible any woman who had eyes could be induced to reject him
Determined therefore to indulge in full both the natural presumption and acquired luxuriance of his character he conducted himself in a manner that to any thing short of the partiality of Sir Hugh would have rendered him insupportably offensive but Sir Hugh had so long cherished a reverence for what he had himself ordered with regard to his studies and what he implicitly credited of his attainments that it was more easy to him to doubt his senses than to suppose so accomplished a scholar could do any thing but what was right
Your horses are worth nothing sir cried he in entering I never rode so unpleasant a beast I dont know who has the care of your stud but whoever it is he deserves to be hanged
Sir Hugh could not refuse either to his justice or his kindness to vindicate his faithful Jacob and for his horses he made as many excuses as if every one had been a human creature whom he was recommending to his mercy with a fear they were unworthy of his favour
Not a word was said more except what Miss Margland from time to time extorted by begging questions in praise of her tea till Lynmere violently ringing the bell called out to order a fire
Every body was surprised at this liberty without any previous demand of permission from the baronet or any inquiry into the feelings of the rest of the company and Sir Hugh in a low voice said to Eugenia I am a little afraid poor Mary will be rather out of humour to have the grate to polish again tomorrow morning in the case my nephew should not like to have another fire then which I suppose if the weather continues so hot may very likely not be agreeable to him
Another pause now ensued Dr Marchmont who of the whole party was alone at this time capable of leading to a general conversation was separately occupied by watching Camilla while himself as usual was curiously and unremittingly examined by Dr Orkborne in whom so much attention to a young lady raised many private doubts of the justice of his scholastic fame which soon by what he observed of his civility even to Miss Margland were confirmed nearly to scepticism
Mary now entering with a coal scuttle and a candle Lynmere with much displeasure called out Bring wood I hate coals
Mary as much displeased and nearly as much humoured as himself answered that nothing but coals were ever burnt in that grate
Take it all away then and bid my man send me my pelisse That I made to cross the Alps in
I am very sorry indeed nephew said Sir Hugh that we were not better prepared for your being so chilly owing to the weather being set in so sultry that we none of us much thought of having a fire and indeed in my young time we were never allowed thinking of such things before Michaelmasday which I suppose is quite behindhand now Pray nephew if it is not too much trouble to you whats the day for lighting fires in foreign parts
Theres no rule of that sort now sir in modern philosophy that kind of things completely out entirely exploded I give you my word
Well every things new Lord help me since I was born But pray nephew if I may ask without tiring you too much on account of my ignorance have they fires in summer as well as winter there
Do you imagine there are grates and fires on the Continent sir the same as in England ha ha
Sir Hugh was discountenanced from any further inquiry
Another silence ensued broken again by a vehement ringing of the bell
When the servant appeared What have you got cried Lynmere that you can bring me to eat
Eat nephew why you would not eat before supper when heres nobody done tea not that Id have you baulk your appetite which to be sure ought to be the best judge
The youth ordered some oysters
There were none in the house
He desired a barrel might immediately be procured he could eat nothing else
Still Edgar though frequent opportunities occurred had no fortitude to address Camilla and no spirits to speak To her however his dejection was a revival she read in it her power and hoped her present plan would finally confirm it
A servant now came in announcing a person who had brought two letters one for Sir Hugh the other for Miss Camilla but who said he would deliver them himself The baronet desired he might be admitted
Several minutes passed and he did not appear The wonder of Sir Hugh was awakened for his letter but Camilla dreading a billet from Sir Sedley was in no haste
Lynmere however glad of an opportunity to issue orders or make disturbance furiously rang the bell saying Where are these letters
Jacob said the baronet my nephew dont mean the slowness to be any fault of yours it being what you cant help only tell the person that brought us our letters we should be glad to look at them not knowing who they may be from
Why he seems but an odd sort of fish sir I cant much make him out hes been begging some flour to put in his hair hell make himself so spruce he says we shant know him again I cant much think hes a gentleman
He then however added he had made a mistake as there was no letter for his master but one for Miss Camilla and the other for Miss Margland
For me exclaimed Miss Margland breaking forth from a scornful silence during which her under lip had been busy to express her contempt of the curiosity excited upon this subject Why how dare they not tell me it was for me it may be from somebody of consequence about something of importance and heres half a day lost before I can see it
She then rose to go in search of it herself but opened the door upon Mr Dubster
A ghost could she have persuaded herself she had seen one could not more have astonished though it would more have dismayed her She drew haughtily back saying Is there nobody else come
The servant answered in the negative, and she retreated to her chair
Camilla alone was not perplext by this sight she had already from the description suggested whom she might expect according to the intimation given by the ever mischievous Lionel
Miss Margland concluding he would turn out to be some broken tradesman prepared herself to expect that the letter was a petition and watched for an opportunity to steal out of the room
Mr Dubster made two or three low bows while he had his hand upon the door and two or three more when he had shut it He then cast his eyes round the room and espying Camilla with a leering sort of smile said O youre there maam I should find you out in a hundred Ive got a letter for you maam and another for the gentlewoman I took for your mamma and I was not much out in my guess for theres no great difference as one may say between a mamma and a governess only the mothers the more natural like
He then presented her a letter which she hastily put up not daring to venture at a public perusal lest it might contain not merely something ludicrous concerning Mr Dubster to which she was wholly indifferent but allusions to Sir Sedley Clarendel which in the actual situation of things might be fatally unseasonable
And now said Mr Dubster I must give up my tother letter asking the gentlewomans pardon for not giving it before only I was willing to give the young lady hers first young ladies being apt to be more in a hurry than people a little in years
This address did not much add to the benevolent eagerness of Miss Margland to read the epistle and endeavouring to decline accepting it Really she said unless I know what its about Im not much used to receiving letters in that manner
As to what its about cried he with a half suppressed simper and nodding his head on one side thats a bit of a secret as youll see when youve read it
Indeed good man I wish you very well but as to reading all the letters that every body brings one it requires more time than I can pretend to have to spare upon every trifling occasion
She would then have retired but Mr Dubster stopping her said Why if you dont read it maam nobodyll be never the wiser for what I come about for its ungainlike to speak for ones self and the young gentleman said hed write to you because he said youd like it the best
The young gentleman what young gentleman
Young squire Tyrold he said youd be as pleased as any thing to tell it to the old gentleman yourself for you was vast fond he said of matrimony
Matrimony what have I to do with matrimony cried Miss Margland reddening and bridling if its any vulgar trick of that kind that Mr Lionel is amusing himself with Im not quite the right sort of person to be so played upon and I desire mister youll take care how you come to me any more upon such errands lest you meet with your proper deserts
Dear heart Im not going to offer anything uncivil As to matrimony its no great joke to a man when once hes made his way in the world its more an affair of you ladies by half
Of us upon my word this is a compliment rather higher than I expected Mr Lionel may find however I have friends who will resent such impertinence if he imagines he may send who he will to me with proposals of this sort
Lauk maam you need not be in such a fright for nothing however theres your letter maam putting it upon the table and when you are in better cue I suppose youll read it
Then advancing to Camilla Now maam lets you and I have a little talk together but first by good rights I ought to speak to your uncle only I dont know which he is twill be mortal kind if youll help a body out
Sir Hugh was going to answer for himself when Lynmere fatigued with so long a scene in which he had no share had recourse to his friend the bell calling out at the same time in a voice of impatience No oysters yet
Sir Hugh now began to grow unhappy for his servants for himself he not only could bear any thing, but still concluded he had nothing to bear but his domestics began all to wear long faces and accustomed to see them happy he was hurt to observe the change No partiality to his nephew could disguise to him that long used to every possible indulgence it was vain to hope they would submit without murmuring to so new a bondage of continual and peremptory commands Instead of attending therefore to Mr Dubster he considered what apology to offer to Jacob who suspecting by whom he was summoned did not make his appearance till Lynmere rung again
Where are these oysters he then demanded have you been eating them
No sir answered he surlily were not so sharp set we live in Old England we dont come from outlandish countries
This true John Bullism Lynmere had neither sense to despise nor humour to laugh at and seriously in a rage called out Sirrah Ill break your bones and lifted up his riding switch with which as well as his boots he had reentered the parlour
The Lord be good unto me cried Sir Hugh what new ways are got into the world but dont take it to heart Jacob for as to breaking your bones after all your long services its a thing I shant consent to which I hope my nephew wont take ill
Affronted with the master and enraged with the man Lynmere stroamed petulantly up and down the room with loud and marked steps that called or at least disturbed the attention of every one exclaiming at every turning A confounded country this a villainous country nothing to be had in it I dont know what in the world to think of that theres any chance I can get
Sir Hugh recovering said he was sorry he was so badly off and desired Jacob not to fail procuring oysters if they were to be had within a mile
A mile ten miles say ten miles round cried Lynmere or you do nothing whats ten miles for a thing of that sort
Ten miles nephew what at this time of night why you dont think with all your travelling that when theyve got ten miles there theyll have ten miles to come back and that makes count twenty
Well sir and suppose it was forty what have such fellows to do better
Sir Hugh blessed himself and Mr Dubster said to Camilla So maam why you dont read your letter neither no more than the gentlewoman however I think you may as well see a little whats in it though I suppose no great matters being from a lady
A lady what lady cried she and eagerly taking it from her pocket saw the handwriting of Mrs Berlinton and inquired how it came into his possession
He answered that happening to meet the ladys footman whom he had known something of while in business as he was going to put it to the post he told him he was coming to the very house and so took it to bring himself the man being rather in a hurry to go another way so I thought twas as well maam he added to save you the postage for as to a day or so sooner or later I suppose it can break no great squares in you ladies letterwriting
Camilla hastily running it over found it contained a most pressing repetition of invitation from Mrs Berlinton for the Southampton plan and information that she should make a little circuit to call and take her up at Cleves if not immediately forbidden the time she named for her arrival though four days distant from the date of her letter would be now the following morning
This seemed to the agitated spirits of Camilla an inviting opening to her scheme She gave the letter to her uncle saying in a fluttered manner she should be happy to accompany Mrs Berlinton for a few days if her father should not disapprove the excursion and if he could himself have the goodness to spare one of the carriages to fetch her home as Southampton was but sixteen miles off
While Sir Hugh amazed at this request yet always unable to pronounce a negative to what she desired stammered Edgar abruptly took leave
Thunderstruck by his departure she looked affrighted after him with a sigh impossible to repress she now first weighed the hazard of what she was doing the deep game she was inconsiderately playing Would it sunder would it unite them Tears started into her eyes at the doubt she did not hear her uncles answer she rose to hurry out of the room but before she could escape the big drops rolled fast down her cheeks and when arrived at her chamber I have lost him she cried by my own unreflecting precipitance I have lost him perhaps for ever
Dr Marchmont now also took leave Mr Dubster desired he might speak with the baronet the next morning and the family remained alone
CHAPTER XII
Dilemmas
While the baronet was pondering in the most melancholy manner upon this sudden and unexpected demand of absence in Camilla the grim goddess of Envy took possession of the fine features of Indiana who declared she was immured alive while her cousin went everywhere The curiosity of Lynmere being excited to inquire what was to be had or done at Southampton he heard it abounded in good company and good fish and protested he must undoubtedly set out for it the next morning
Indiana then wept with vexation and anger and Miss Margland affirmed she was the only young lady in Hampshire who had never been at Southampton Sir Hugh concluding Edgar would attend Camilla feared it might hurt the other match to part Eugenia from Clermont and after a little pause though deeply sighing at such a dispersion from Cleves consented that they should all go together Camilla therefore was commissioned to ask leave of Mr Tyrold for Eugenia as well as for herself and to add a petition from Sir Hugh that he and Lavinia would spend the time of their absence at Cleves The baronet then of his own accord asked Dr Orkborne to be of the party that Eugenia he said might run over her lessons with him in a morning for fear of forgetting them
A breach however such as this of plans so long formed and a desertion so voluntary of his house at the very epoch he had settled for rendering its residence the most desirable sent him in complete discomfiture to his bed But there in a few hours his sanguine temper and the kindness of his heart new modelled and new coloured the circumstances of his chagrin He considered he should have full time to prepare for the double marriages and that with the aid of Lavinia he might delight and amaze them all with new dresses and new trinkets which he could now choose without the torment of continual opposition from the documentising Miss Margland Thus he restored his plastic mind to its usual satisfaction and arose the next morning without a cloud upon his brow The pure design of benevolence is to bestow happiness upon others but its intrinsic reward is bringing happiness home
But this sweetness of nature, so aptly supplying the first calls and the first virtues of philosophy was yet more severely again tried the next morning for when forgetting the caution he had solemnly promised but vainly endeavoured to observe he intimated to Lynmere these purposes the youth blushing at the idea of being taken for the destined husband of Eugenia in public preferred all risks to being followed by such a rumour to Southampton and when he found she was to be of the party positively declared the match to be out of all question
Sir Hugh now stood aghast Many had been his disappointments his rage for forming schemes and his credulity in persuading himself they would be successful were sources not more fertile of amusement in their projection than of mortification in their event but here the length of time since his plan had been arranged joined to the very superficial view he had taken of any chance of its failure had made him by degrees regard it as so fixed and settled that it rather demanded congratulation than concurrence rather waited to be enjoyed than executed
Lynmere took not the smallest interest in the dismay of his uncle but turning upon his heel said he would go to the stables to see if he could find something that would carry him any better than the miserable jade he had mounted the preceding evening
Sir Hugh remained in a kind of stupefaction He seemed to himself to be bereft of every purpose of life and robbed at once of all view for his actions all subject for his thoughts The wide world he believed had never hitherto given birth to a plan so sagaciously conceived so rationally combined so infallibly secure yet it was fallen crushed rejected
A gleam of sunshine however ere long burst upon his despondence it occurred to him that the learned education of Eugenia was still a secret to her cousin his whole scheme therefore might perhaps yet be retrieved when Lynmere should be informed of the peculiar preparations made for his conjugal happiness
Fetching now a long breath to aid the revival of his faculties and his spirits he considered how to open his discourse so as to render it most impressive and then sent for Clermont to attend him in his chamber
Nephew cried he upon his entrance I am now going to talk to you a little in your own way having something to tell you of that I believe you wont know how to hold cheap being a thing that belongs to your studies that is to say to your cousins which I hope is pretty much the same thing at least as to the end Now the case of what I have to say is this you must know nephew I had always set my heart upon having a rich heir but its what did not turn out which I am sorry enough for but wheres the man thats so wise as to know his own doom that is the doom of his fortune However thats what I should not talk of to you having so little which I hope you wont take to heart And indeed it int much worth a wise mans thinking of when he hant got it for whats a fortune at bottom but mere metal And so having as I said before no heir Im forced in default of it to take up with an heiress But to the end of making all parties happy Ive had her brought up in the style of a boy for the sake of your marrying her For which reason I believe in point of the classics
Me sir cried Lynmere recovering from a long yawning fit and what have I to do with marrying a girl like a boy Thats not my taste my dear sir I assure you Besides what has a wife to do with the classics will they shew her how to order her table I suppose when I want to eat I may go to a cooks shop
Here subsided at once every particle of that reverence Sir Hugh had so long nourished for Clermont Lynmere To hear the classics spoken of with disrespect after all the pains he had taken all the orders he had given for their exclusive study and veneration and to find the common calls of life which he had believed every scholar regarded but as means of existence not auxiliaries of happiness named with preference distanced at a stroke all high opinion of his nephew and made way in its stead for a displeasure not wholly free from disdain
Well Clermont said he after a pause I wont keep you any longer now I know your mind which I wish I had known before for the account of your cousin who has had plague enough about it in her bringing up which however I shall put an end to now not seeing that any good has come from it
Lynmere joyfully accepted the permission to retire enchanted that the rejection was thus completely off his mind and had incurred only so slight a reproof unaccompanied with one menace or even remonstrance
The first consternation of Sir Hugh at the fall of this favourite project was indeed somewhat lessened at this moment by the fall of his respectful opinion of its principal object He sent therefore hastily for Eugenia to whom he abruptly exclaimed My dear girl whod have thought it heres your cousin Clermont with all his Greek and Latin which I begin to bless God I dont know a word of turning out a mere common nothing thinking about his dinners and suppers for which reason I beg youll think of him no more it not being worth your while in particular as he dont desire it
Eugenia at this intimation felt nearly as much relieved as disturbed To be refused was indeed shocking not to her pride she was a stranger to that passion but to her delicacy which pointed out to her in strong colours the impropriety of having been exposed to such a decision nevertheless to find herself unshackled from an alliance to which she looked forward with dread without offending her uncle to whom so many reasons made it dear or militating against her own heroic sentiments of generosity which revolted against wilfully depriving her cousin of an inheritance already offered to him removed a weight from her mind which his every word look and gesture had contributed to increase since their first meeting
Dr Marchmont had ridden to Beech Park where he had spent the night though uninvited by its agitated owner whom the very name of Mrs Berlinton annexed to an accepted party of pleasure had driven in speechless agony from Cleves
I wonder not cried he at your disturbance I feel for it on the contrary more than ever from my observations of this evening for I now see the charm the potent charm as well as the difficulties of your situation This strange affair with Sir Sedley Clarendel cannot in common foresight of what may ensue from it be passed over without the most rigid scrutiny and severest deliberation yet I sincerely hope inquiry may produce some palliation this young lady I see will not easily for sweetness for countenance for every apparent attraction be replaced and the first of all requisites is certainly in your favour it is evident she loves you
Loves me cried Edgar his arms involuntarily encircling him as he repeated the magnetising words Ah Dr Marchmont could she then thus grieve and defy me—And yet so too said Jacob—that good faithful excellent old servant
Yes I watched her unremittingly and saw her so much hurt by your abrupt retreat that her eyes filled with tears the moment you left the room
O Dr Marchmont—and for me were they shed—my dear—dear friend withhold from me such a picture—or reconcile me completely to viewing no other
Once more let me warn you to circumspection The stake for which you are playing is life in its best part tis peace of mind That her manners are engaging that her looks are captivating and even that her heart is yours admit no doubt but the solidity or the lightness of that heart are yet to be proved
Still Doctor though nearly in defiance of all my senses still I can doubt anything rather than the heart of Camilla Precipitate I know she has always been reckoned but her precipitance is of kin to her noblest virtues it springs but from the unsuspicious frankness of an unguarded because innocent nature And this in a short time her understanding will correct
Are you sure it is adequate to the task There is often in early youth a quickness of parts which raises expectations that are never realised Their origin is but in the animal spirits which instead of ripening into judgment and sense by added years dwindle into nothingness or harden into flippancy The character at this period is often so unstable as to be completely new moulded by every new accident or new associate How innumerable are the lurking ill qualities that may lie dormant beneath the smiles of youth and beauty in the season of their untried serenity The contemporaries of half our fiercest viragos of fifty may assure you that at fifteen they were all softness and sweetness The present æra however my dear young friend is highly favourable to all you can judiciously wish namely the entire reestablishment or total destruction of all confidence To a man of your nice feelings there is no medium Your love demands respect or your tranquillity exacts flight from its object. Set apart your offence at the cultivation of an acquaintance you disapprove be yourself of the party to Southampton and there a very little observation will enable you to dive into the most secret recesses of her character
Steadiness Doctor I do not want nor yet however I suffer from its exertion fortitude but a plan such as this requires something more it calls for an equivocal conduct which to me would be impracticable and to her might prove delusive No the openness I so much pine to meet with I must at least not forfeit myself
The fervour of your integrity my dear Mandlebert mistakes caution for deceit If indeed this plan had any other view than your union it would not merely be cruel but infamous the truth however, is you must either pursue her upon proof or abandon her at once with every chance of repenting such a measure
Alas how torturing is hesitation to believe myself the object of her regard to think that first of all human felicities mine yet to find it so pliant so precarious to see her with such thoughtless readiness upon the point of falling into the hands of another receiving answering his letters letters too so confident so daring made up of insolent demands and imperious reproaches to meet him by his own appointment O Dr Marchmont all delicious as is the idea of her preference all entwined as she is around my soul how now how ever again can I be happy either to quit or to claim her
This division of sentiment is what gives rise to my plan At Southampton you will see if Sir Sedley pursues her and as she will be uncertain of your intentions you will be enabled to judge the singleness of her mind and the stability of her affection by the reception she gives him
But if as I think I can gather from her delivering me his letters the affair whatever it has been with Sir Sedley is over What then
You will have leisure to discuss it and opportunity also to see her with other Sir Sedleys Public places abound with those flutterers after youth and beauty unmeaning admirers who sigh at every new face or black traitors to society who seek but to try and try but to publish their own power of conquest
Will you then my dear Doctor be also of the party for my sake will you once more quit your studies and repose to give me upon the spot your counsel according to the varying exigence of varying circumstances to aid me to prepare and compose my mind for whatever may be the event and to guide even if possible my wavering and distracted thoughts
To the importance of the period and to a plea so serious every obstacle yielded and Dr Marchmont agreed to accompany him to Southampton
CHAPTER XIII
Live and Learn
Before the Cleves party assembled to breakfast after the various arrangements made for Southampton Mr Dubster arrived and demanded an interview with Sir Hugh who attending him to the drawingroom asked his pleasure
Why have not you read the young gentlemans letter sir cried he surprised because he said hed put it all down clear as a pike staff to save time
Sir Hugh had not heard of it
Why then if you please sir well go and ask that elderly gentlewoman what shes done with it She might as well have shewed it after the young gentlemans taking the trouble to write it to her But she is none of the good naturedest I take it
Repairing then to Miss Margland after his usual bows to all the company I ask pardon maam he cried but pray whats the reason of your keeping the young gentlemans letter to yourself which was writ opurpose to let the old gentleman know what I come for
Because I never trouble myself with any thing thats impertinent she haughtily answered though in fact when the family had retired she had stolen downstairs and read the letter which contained a warm recommendation of Mr Dubster to her favour with abundant flippant offers to promote her own interest for so desirable a match should Camilla prove blind to its advantages This she had then burnt with a determination never to acknowledge her condescension in opening it
The repeated calls of Mr Dubster procuring no further satisfaction Why then I dont see he said but what Im as bad off as if the young gentleman had not writ the letter for Ive got to speak for myself at last
Taking Sir Hugh then by a button of his coat he desired he would go back with him to the other parlour and there with much circumlocution and unqualified declarations of his having given over all thoughts of further marrying till the young gentleman over persuaded him of his being particular agreeable to the young lady he solemnly proposed himself for Miss Camilla Tyrold
Sir Hugh who perceived in this address nothing that was ridiculous was somewhat drawn from reflecting on his own disappointment by the pity he conceived for this hopeless suitor to whom with equal circumlocution of concern he communicated that his niece was on the point of marriage with a neighbour
I know that replied Mr Dubster nodding sagaciously the young gentleman having told me of the young baronight but he said it was all against her will being only your over teasing and the like
The Lord be good unto me exclaimed the baronet holding up his hands if I dont think all the young boys have a mind to drive me out of my wits one after tother
Hurrying then back to the breakfast parlour and to Camilla Come hither my dear he cried for heres a gentleman come to make his addresses to you that wont take an answer
Every serious thought and every melancholy apprehension in Camilla gave place at this speech to the ludicrous image of such an admirer as Mr Dubster foisted upon her by the ridiculous machinations of Lionel She took Sir Hugh by the hand and drawing him away to the most distant window said in a low voice My dear uncle this is a mere trick of Lionel the person you see here is I believe a tinker
A tinker repeated Sir Hugh quite loud in defiance of the signs and hists hists of Camilla good lack thats a person I should never have thought of Then walking up to Mr Dubster who was taking into his hands all the ornaments from the chimneypiece one by one to examine Sir he said you may be a very good sort of man and I dont doubt but you are for Ive a proper respect for every trade in its way but in point of marrying my niece its a thing I must beg you to put out of your head it not being a proper subject to talk of to a young lady from a person in that line
Very well sir answered Mr Dubster stiffly and pouting its not of much consequence dont make yourself uneasy Theres nothing in what I was going to propose but what was quite genteel Id scorn to address a lady else Shed have a good five hundred ayear in case of outliving me
Good lack five hundred ayear whod have thought of such a thing by the tinkering business
The what business did you say sir cried Mr Dubster strutting up to the baronet with a solemn frown
The tinkering business my good friend Ant you a tinker
Sir cried Mr Dubster swelling I did not think when I was coming to make such a handsome offer of being affronted at such a rate as this Not that I mind it Its not worth fretting about However as to a tinker Im no more a tinker than yourself whatever put it in your head
Good lack my dear cried the baronet to Camilla the gentleman quite denies it
Camilla though unable to refrain from laughing confessed she had received the information from Mrs Arlbery at the Northwick breakfast who she now supposed had said it in random sport
Sir Hugh cordially begged his pardon and asked him to take a seat at the breakfast table to soften the undesigned offence
A note now arrived from Mr Tyrold to the baronet It contained his consent to return with Lavinia to Cleves and his ready acquiescence in the little excursion to Southampton since Miss Margland would be superintendant of the party and since he added they will have another guardian to whom already I consign my Camilla and upon her account my dear Eugenia also with the same fearless confidence I should feel in seeing them again under the maternal wing
Sir Hugh who always read his letters aloud said when he had done See what it is to be a good boy my brother looks upon young Mr Edgar as these young girls husband already that is of one of them by which means the other becomes his sister which Im sure is a trouble he wont mind except as a pleasure
Camillas distress at this speech past unnoticed from the abrupt entrance of Lynmere giving orders aloud to his servant to get ready for Southampton
Inflamed with triumph in his recent success in baffling his uncle that youth was in the most turbulent spirits and fixed a resolution either to lord it over the whole house or regain at once his liberty for returning to the Continent
Forcing a chair between Sir Hugh and Camilla he seized rapidly whatever looked most inviting from every plate on the table to place upon his own murmuring the whole time against the horses declaring the stud the most wretched he had ever seen and protesting the old groom must be turned away without loss of time
What Jacob cried the baronet why nephew he has lived with me from a boy and now hes grown old Id sooner rub down every horse with my own hand than part with him
He must certainly go sir Theres no keeping him I may be tempted else to knock his brains out some day Besides I have a very good fellow I can recommend to you of my own
Clermont Ive no doubt of his being a good fellow which Im very glad of but as to your always knocking out the brains of my servants its a thing I must beg you not to talk of any more being against the law Besides which it dont sound very kind of you considering their having done you no harm never having seen your face as one may say except just to wait upon you which can hardly be reckoned a bad office besides a servants being a man as well as you whether Homer and Horace tell you so or no
To see Sir Hugh displeased was a sight new to the whole house Camilla and Eugenia mutually pained for him endeavoured by various little kind offices to divert his attention but Indiana thought his displeasure proved her brother to be a wit and Clermont rose in spirits and in insolence upon the same idea too shallow to know that of all the qualities with which the perversity of human nature is gifted and power which is the most common to attain and the most easy to practise is the art of provoking
Jacob now appearing Lynmere ordered some shrimps
There were none
No shrimps Theres nothing to be had Tis a wretched county this
Youll get nice shrimps at Southampton sir by what I can hear said Mr Dubster Tom Hicks says he has been sick with em many a day hes eat such a heap They gets em by hundreds and hundreds and hundreds at a time
Pray nephew how long shall you stay because of my nieces coming back at the same time
A fortnights enough to tire me anywhere sir Pray what do you all do with yourselves here after breakfast Whats your mode
Mode nephew weve got no particular mode that ever I heard of However among so many of us I think its a little hard if you can find nothing to say to us all in a manner your relations too
We take no notice of relations now sir thats out
Im sorry for it nephew for a relations a relation whether you take notice of him or not And theres neer an ode in Virgil will tell you to the contrary as I believe
A short silence now ensued which was broken by a sigh from Sir Hugh who ejaculated to himself though aloud I cant but think what my poor friend Westwyn will do if his sons come home in this manner caring for nobody but an oyster or a shrimp unless its a newspaper
And what should a man care for else my good old friend in a desart place such as this
Good old friend repeated the baronet to be sure Im not very young However as to that but you mean no harm I know for which reason I cant be so illnatured as to take it ill However if poor Westwyn is served in this way Hes my dearest friend that Ive got out of us all here of my own kin and hes got only one son and he sent him to foreign parts only for cheapness and if he should happen to like nothing he can get at home it wont answer much in saving to send out for things all day long
O dont be troubled sir Westwyns but a poor creature Hell take up with anything He lived within his allowance the whole time A mighty poor creature
Im glad of it glad of it indeed cried Sir Hugh with involuntary eagerness I should have been sorry if my poor good old friend had had such disappointment
Upon my honour cried Lynmere piqued the quoz of the present season are beyond what a man could have hoped to see
Quoz whats quoz nephew
Why its a thing theres no explaining to you sort of gentlemen and sometimes we say quiz my good old sir
Sir Hugh now for almost the first time in his life felt seriously affronted His utmost lenity could not palliate the wilful disrespect of his language and with a look of grave displeasure he answered Really nephew I cant but say I think youve got rather a particular odd way of speaking to persons As to talking so much about peoples being old youd do well to consider thats no fault in anybody except ones years which is what we cant be said to help
You descant too much upon words sir we have left off now using them with such prodigious precision Its quite over sir
O my dear Clermont cried Sir Hugh losing his short movement of anger in a more tender sensation of concern how it goes to my heart to see you turn out such a jackanapes
Lynmere resentfully hanging back said no more and Mr Dubster having drunk seven dishes of tea with a long apology between each for the trouble gladly seized the moment of pause to ask Camilla when she had heard from their friend Mrs Mittin adding I should have brought you a letter from her maam myself but that I was rather out of sorts with her for happening to meet her the day as you went walking on them Pantiles with some of her quality binding when I was not dressed out quite in my best becomes she made as if she did not know me Not as it signifies Its pretty much of a muchness to me I remember her another sort of person to what she looks now before I was a gentleman myself
Why pray what was you then sir cried Sir Hugh with great simplicity
As to that sir theres no need to say whether I was one thing or another as I know of Im not in the least ashamed of what I was
Sir Hugh seeing him offended was beginning an apology but interrupting him No sir he said theres no need to say nothing about it Its not a thing to take much to heart Ive been defamed often enough I hope to be above minding it Only just this one thing sir I beg I may have the favour to be introduced to that lady as had the obligingness to call me a tinker when I never was no such thing
Breakfast now being done the ladies retired to prepare for their journey
Well cried Mr Dubster looking after Eugenia that little lady will make no great figure at such a place as Southton I would not have her look out for a husband there
Shed have been just the thing for me cried Lynmere haughtily rising and conceitedly parading his fine form up and down the room his eyes catching it from lookingglass to lookingglass by every possible contrivance just the thing matched to perfection
Lord help me if I dont find myself in the dark about every thing cried Sir Hugh whod have thought of you scholars thinking so much of beauty I should be glad to know what your classics say to that point
Faith my good sir I never trouble myself to ask From the time we begin our tours we wipe away all that stuff as fast as possible from our thoughts.'
Why pray nephew what harm could it do to your tours
We want room sir room in the pericranium As soon as we begin to travel we give up everything to taste And then we want clear heads Clear heads sir for pictures statues busts alto relievos basso relievos tablets monuments mausoleums
If you go on at that rate nephew interrupted Sir Hugh holding his ears youll put my poor head quite into a whirligig And its none of the deepest already Lord help me
Lynmere now without ceremony made off and Mr Dubster left alone with the baronet said they might as well proceed to business So pray sir if I may make bold in the case we come to a right understanding about the young lady what do you propose to give her down
Sir Hugh staring inquired what he meant
Why I mean sir what shall you give her at the first I know shes to have it all at your demise but that int the bird in the hand Now when once I know that I can make my offers which shall be handsome or not according And thats but fair So how much can you part with sir
Not a guinea cried Sir Hugh with some emotion I cant give her anything Mr Edgar knows that
Thats hard indeed sir What nothing for a setting out And pray sir what may the sum total be upon your demise
Not a penny cried Sir Hugh with still more agitation Dont you know Ive disinherited her
Disinherited her why this is bad news enough And pray sir what for
Nothing She never offended me in thought word nor deed
Well thats odd enough And when did you do it sir
The very week she was nine years old poor thing which I shall never forget as long as I live being my worst action
Well this is particular enough And young squire Tyrolds never heard a word of it which is somewhat of a wonder too
Not heard of it why the whole family know it Ive settled everything I was worth in the world upon her younger sister that you saw sitting by her
Well if Tom Hicks did not as good as tell me so ever so long ago though the young squire said it was all to the contrary what for I dont know unless to take me in But he wont find that quite so easy asking his pardon Matrimonys a good thing enough when its to help a man forward but a person must be a fool indeed to put himself out of his way for nothing
He then formally wished the baronet a good day and hastened from the house puffed up with vain glory at his own sagacious precautions which had thus happily saved him from being tricked into unprofitable wedlock
Mrs Berlinton now arrived and as Camilla was ready though trembling doubtful apprehensive of the step she was taking declined alighting A general meeting was to take place at the inn and the baronet putting a twenty pound note into her hand with the most tender blessings parted with his darling niece And then surprised at not seeing Edgar to breakfast sent his butler to tell him the history of the excursion
Lynmere was already set off on horseback and the party consisting of Dr Orkborne Miss Margland Indiana and Eugenia followed two hours after in the coach of the baronet which drove from the park as the chaise entered it with Mr Tyrold and Lavinia to supply their places
BOOK VIII
CHAPTER I
A Way to make Friends
When Camilla appeared at the halldoor a gentleman descended from the carriage of Mrs Berlinton with an air the most melancholy and eyes bent to the earth in the mournful bow with which he offered her his hand though when he had assisted her into the coach he raised them and turning round cast upon the mansion a look of desponding fondness that immediately brought to her recollection young Melmond the Oxford student and the brother of her new friend
Mrs Berlinton received her with tenderness folding her to her breast and declaring life to be now insupportable without her
The affection of Camilla was nearly reciprocal but her pleasure had no chance of equal participation nor was the suspensive state of her mind the only impediment opposite to her in the carriage and immediately claiming her attention was Mrs Mittin
The agitating events which had filled up the short interval of her residence at Cleves had so completely occupied every faculty that till the affair of the horse involved her in new difficulties her debts had entirely flown her remembrance and the distressing scenes which immediately succeeded to that forced recollection made its duration as short as it was irksome but the sight of Mrs Mittin brought it back with violence to her memory and flashed it with shame upon her conscience
The twenty pounds however just given her by Sir Hugh occurred at the same moment to her thoughts and she determined to repair her negligence by appropriating it into parcels for the payment of all she owed before she suffered sleep again to close her eyes
Mrs Berlinton informed her that both herself and her brother had been summoned to Southampton to meet Mrs Ecton the aunt by whom she had been educated who had just arrived there from Wales upon some secret business necessary for her to hear but which could not be revealed by letters
The journey though in itself short and pleasant proved to Camilla long and wearisome the beauties of the prospect were acknowledged by her eye but her mind dead to pleasure refused to give them their merited effect To the charms of nature she could not be blind her fervent imagination and the lessons of her youth combined to do them justice but she thought not of them at this moment hill vale or plain were uninteresting however beautiful it was Edgar she looked for Edgar who thus coldly had suffered her to depart but who still it was possible might pursue and hope ever active painted him as she proceeded in every distant object that caught her eye whether living or inanimate brightening from time to time the roses of her cheeks with the felicity of a speedy reconciliation but upon every near approach the flattering error was detected and neither hill vale nor plain could dispel the disappointment A fine country and diversified views may soften even the keenest affliction of decided misfortune and tranquillise the most gloomy sadness into resignation and composure but suspense rejects the gentle palliative tis an absorbent of the faculties that suffers them to see hear and feel only its own perplexity and the finer the fibres of the sensibility on which it seizes the more exclusive is its despotism doubt in a fervent mind from the rapidity of its evolutions between fear in its utmost despondence and hope in its fullest rapture is little short of torture
They drove immediately to an elegant house situated upon a small eminence half a mile without the town of Southampton which had already been secured and Mrs Berlinton as soon as she had chosen the pleasantest apartment it afforded for Camilla and suffered Mrs Mittin to choose the next pleasant for herself went accompanied by her brother to the lodging of Mrs Ecton
Left alone Camilla stationed herself at a window believing she meant to look at the prospect but her eye faithful to her heart roved up and down the high road and took in only chaises or horsemen till Mrs Mittin with her customary familiarity came into the room Well my dear miss she cried youre welcome to Southampton and welcome to Mrs Berlinton shes a nice lady as ever I knew I suppose youre surprised to see us so great together but Ill tell you how it came about You must know just as you was gone I happened to be in the book shop when she came in and asked for a book the Peruvan Letters she called it and it was not at home and she looked quite vexed for she said she had looked the catalogue up and down and saw nothing else shed a mind to so I thought it would be a good opportunity to oblige her and be a way to make a prodigious genteel acquaintance besides so I took down the name and I found out the lady that had got the book and I made her a visit and I told her it was particular wanted by a lady that had a reason so she let me have it and I took it to my pretty lady who was so pleased she did not know how to thank me So this got me footing in the house and there I heard amongst her people she was coming to Southampton and was to call for you my dear miss so when I found she had not her coach full I askd her to give me a cast for I told her youd be particular glad to see me as wed some business to settle together that was a secret between only us two so she said she would do anything to give you pleasure so then I made free to ask her to give me a nights lodging till I could find out some friend to be at for Id a vast mind to come to Southampton as I could do it so reasonable for I like to go every where And I dare say my dear miss if youll tell her twill oblige you shell make me the compliment to let me stay all the time for I know nobody here though I dont fear making friends go where I will And you know my dear miss you can do no less by me considering what Ive done for you for Ive kept all the good people quiet about your debts and they say you may pay them when you will as I told them you was such a rich heiress which Mr Dubster let me into the secret of for he had had it from your brother
Camilla now experienced the extremest repentance and shame to find herself involved in any obligation with a character so forward vulgar and encroaching and to impose such a person through the abuse of her name and influence upon the time and patience of Mrs Berlinton
The report spread by Lionel she immediately disavowed and producing her twenty pound bank note begged Mrs Mittin would have the goodness to get it changed for her and to discharge her accounts without delay
Surprised by this readiness and struck by the view of the note Mrs Mittin imputed to mere reserve the denial of her expected wealth but readily promised to get in the bills and see her clear
Camilla would now have been left alone but Mrs Mittin thought of nothing less than quitting her and she knew not how to bid her depart It was uncertain when Mrs Berlinton could return to obviate therefore in some measure the fatigue of such conversation Camilla proposed walking
It was still but two oclock and the weather was delicious every place that opened to any view presented some prospect that was alluring Camilla notwithstanding her anxiety was caught and at intervals at least forgot all within from admiration of all without
Mrs Mittin led immediately to the town and Camilla was struck with its neatness and surprised by its populousness Mrs Mittin assured her it was nothing to London and only wished she could walk her from Charingcross to Templebar just to shew her what it was to see a little of the world
But now my dear she cried the thing is to find out what weve got to look at so dont lets go on without knowing what were about however these shops are all so monstrous smart twill be a pleasure to go into them and ask the good people what theres to see in the town
This pretext proved so fertile to her of entertainment in the opportunity it afforded of taking a near view of the various commodities exposed to sale that while she entered almost every shop with inquiries of what was worth seeing she attended to no answer nor information but having examined and admired all the goods within sight or reach walked off to obtain by similar means a similar privilege further on boasting to Camilla that by this clever device they might see all that was smartest without the expence of buying any thing.
It is possible that this might safely have been repeated from one end of the town to the other had Mrs Mittin been alone and she seemed well disposed to make the experiment but Camilla who absent and absorbed accompanied without heeding her was of a figure and appearance not quite so well adapted for indulging with impunity such unbridled curiosity The shopkeepers who according to their several tastes or opinions gave their directions to the churches the quays the marketplace the antique gates the townhall c involuntarily looked at her as they answered the questioner and not satisfied with the short view followed to the door to look again this presently produced an effect that for the whole length of the Highstreet was amply ridiculous every one perceiving that whatsoever had been his recommendation whether to the right to the left or straight forward the two inquirers went no further than into the next shop whence they regularly drew forth either the master or the man to make another starer at their singular proceeding
Some supposed they were only seeking to attract notice others thought they were deranged in mind and others again imagined they were shoplifters and hastened back to their counters to examine what was missing of their goods
Two men of the two last persuasions communicated to one another their opinions each sustaining his own with a positiveness that would have ended in a quarrel had it not been accommodated by a wager To settle this became now so important that business gave way to speculation and the contending parties accompanied by a young perfumer as arbitrator leaving their affairs in the hands of their wives or their domestics issued forth from their repositories to pursue and watch the curious travellers laying bets by the way at almost every shop as they proceeded till they reached the quay where the ladies made a full stand and their followers opened a consultation how best to decide the contest
Mr Firl a sagacious old linendraper who concluded them to be shoplifters declared he would keep aloof for he should detect them best when they least suspected they were observed
Mr Drim a gentle and simple haberdasher who believed their senses disordered made a circuit to face and examine them frequently however looking back to see that no absconding trick was played him by his friends When he came up to them the pensive and absorbed look of Camilla struck him as too particular to be natural and in Mrs Mittin he immediately fancied he perceived something wild if not insane In truth an opinion preconceived of her derangement might easily authorise strong suspicions of confirmation from the contented volubility with which she incessantly ran on without waiting for answerers or even listeners and his observation had not taught him that the loquacious desire only to speak They exact time not attention
Mrs Mittin soon observing the curiosity with which he examined them looked at him so hard in return talking the whole time in a quick low voice to Camilla upon his oddity that struck with a direful panic in the persuasion she was marking him for some mischief he turned short about to get back to his companions leaving Mrs Mittin with precisely the same opinion of himself which he had imbibed of her
Well my dear cried she this is one of the most miraclous adventures Ive met with yet as sure as youre alive that man that stares so is not right in the head for else what should he run away for all in such a hurry after looking at us so particular for nothing Ill assure you I think the best thing we can do is to get off as fast as we can for fear of the worst
They then sped their way from the quay but in turning down the first passage to get out of sight they were led into one of the little rooms prepared for the accommodation of bathers
This seemed so secure as well as pleasant that Camilla soothed by the tranquillity with which she could contemplate the noble Southampton water and its fine banks sat down at the window and desired not to walk any further
The fright with which Mr Drim had retreated gained no proselyte to his opinion Mr Girt the perfumer asserted significantly they were only idle travellers of light character and Mr Firl when in dodging them he saw they went into a bathing room offered to double his wager that it was to make some assortment of their spoil
This was accepted and it was agreed that one should saunter in the adjoining passages to see which way they turned upon coming out while the two others should patrol the beach to watch their disappearance from the windows
Mrs Mittin meanwhile was as much amused though with different objects, as Camilla A large mixt party of ladies and gentlemen who had ordered a vessel for sailing down the water which was not yet ready now made their appearance and their dress their air of enjoyment their outcries of impatience the frisky gaiety of some the noisy merriment of others seemed to Mrs Mittin marks of so much grandeur and happiness that all her thoughts were at work to devise some contrivance for becoming of their acquaintance
Camilla also surveyed but almost without seeing them for the only image of her mind now unexpectedly met her view Dr Marchmont and Edgar just arrived had patrolled to the beach where Edgar whose eye from his eagerness appeared to be every where in a moment immediately perceived her they both bowed and Dr Marchmont amazed by the air and figure of her companion inquired if Mrs Berlinton had any particularly vulgar relation to whom she was likely to commit her fair guest
Edgar who had seen only herself could not now forbear another glance but the aspect of Mrs Mittin without Mrs Berlinton or any other more dignified or fitting protectress was both unaccountable and unpleasant to him he recollected having seen her at Tunbridge where the careless temper and negligent manners of Mrs Arlbery made all approaches easy that answered any purpose of amusement or ridicule but he could not conceive how Mrs Berlinton or Camilla herself could be joined by such a companion
Mr Firl having remarked these two gentlemens bows began to fear for his wager yet thinking it authorised him to seek some information approached them and taking off his hat said You seem to be noticing those two ladies up there pray gentlemen if youve no objection who may they be
Why do you ask sir cried Edgar sternly
Why weve a wager depending upon them sir and I believe theres no gentleman will refuse to help another about a wager
A wager repeated Edgar wishing but vainly to manifest no curiosity what inducement could you have to lay a wager about them
Why I believe sir theres nobodys a better judge than me what Ive laid about though I may be out to be sure if you know the ladies but Ive seen so much of their tricks in my time that they must be pretty sharp before theyll overreach me
What tricks who must be sharp who are you talking of
Shoplifters sir
Shoplifters what do you mean
No harm sir I may be out to be sure as I say and if so I ask pardon only as weve laid the wager I think I may speak before I pay
The curiosity of Edgar would have been converted into ridicule had he been less uneasy at seeing with whom Camilla was thus associated Mrs Mittin might certainly be a worthy woman and if so must merit every kindness that could be shewn her but her air and manner so strongly displayed the low bred society to which she had been accustomed that he foresaw nothing but improper acquaintance or demeaning adventures that could ensue from such a connection at a public place
Dr Marchmont demanded what had given rise to this suspicion
Mr Firl answered that they had been into every shop in the town routing over every bodys best goods yet not laying out a penny
Nothing of this could Edgar comprehend except that Camilla had suffered herself to be led about by Mrs Mittin entirely at her pleasure but all further inquiry was stopt by the voluntary and pert junction of Girt the young perfumer who during this period had by no means been idle for perceiving in the group waiting for a vessel a certain customer by whom he knew such a subject would be well received he contrived to excite his curiosity to ask some questions which could only be satisfied by the history of the wager and his own opinion that both parties were out
This drew all eyes to the bathing room and new bets soon were circulated consisting of every description of conjecture or even possibility except that the two objects in question were innocent and for that in a set of fourteen only one was found who defended Camilla though her face seemed the very index of purity which still more strongly was painted upon it than beauty or even than youth Such is the prevalent disposition to believe in general depravity that while those who are debased themselves find a consolation in thinking others equally worthless those even who are of a better sort nourish a secret vanity in supposing few as good as themselves and fully without reflection the fair candour of their minds by aiding that insidious degeneracy which robs the community of all confidence in virtue
The approach of the perfumer to Edgar had all the hardiness of vulgar elation bestowed at this moment by the recent encouragement of having been permitted to propagate his facetious opinions in a society of gentlefolks for though to one only amongst them a young man of large fortune by whom he was particularly patronised he had presumed verbally to address himself he had yet the pleasure to hear his account repeated from one to another till not a person of the company escaped hearing it
My friend Firls been telling you I suppose sir said he to Edgar of his foolish wager but take my word for it
Here Edgar who again had irresistibly looked up at the room saw that the three gentlemen had entered it alarmed lest these surmises should be productive of impertinence to Camilla he darted quickly from the beach to her immediate protection
But the rapidity of his wishes were ill seconded by the uncertainty of his footsteps and while with eyes eagerly wandering all around he hastily pushed forward he was stopt by Mr Drim who told him to take care how he went on for in one of those bathing houses to the best of his belief there were two crazy women one melancholy and one stark wild that had just as he supposed escaped from their keepers
How shall I find my way then to another of the bathing houses cried Edgar
Mr Drim undertook to shew him where he might turn but said he must not lose sight of the door because he had a bottle of port depending upon it his neighbour Mr Firl insisting they were only shoplifters
Edgar here stopt short and stared
Drim then assured him it was what he could not believe as nothing was missing though Mr Firl would have it that it was days and days sometimes before people found out what was gone but he was sure himself they were touched in the head by their going about so wild asking everybody the same questions and minding nobodys answers
Edgar convinced now Camilla was here again implicated broke with disgust from the man and rushed to the door he charged him to avoid
CHAPTER II
A Rage of Obliging
Camilla from the instant she had perceived Edgar had been in the utmost emotion from doubt if his journey were to seek a reconciliation or only to return her letters and take a lasting farewell Her first feeling at his sight urged her to retire but something of a softer nature speedily interfered representing if now he should join her what suffering might mutually be saved by an immediate conference She kept therefore her seat looking steadily straight down the water and denying herself one moments glance at anything or person upon the beach little imagining she ingrossed herself the attention of all who paraded it But when the insinuations of the flippant perfumer had once made her looked at her beauty her apparently unprotected situation and the account of the wager seemed to render her an object to be stared at without scruple
Mrs Mittin saw how much they were observed but Camilla unheeding her remarks listened only to hear if any footsteps approached but when at last some struck her ears they were accompanied by an unknown voice so loud and clamorously jovial that disturbed she looked round and saw the door violently flung open and three persons dressed like gentlemen force their way into the small dwelling place
Mr Halder the leader of this triumvirate was the particular patron of Girt the young perfumer and though his superior in birth and riches was scarcely upon a par with him from wilful neglect in education and undoubtedly beneath him in decency and conduct notwithstanding young Girt piqued himself far less upon such sentimental qualifications than upon his skill in cosmetics and had less respect for unadulterated morals than unadulterated powder
The second who entered was in every particular still less defensible he was a peer of the realm he had a daughter married and his age entitled him to be the grandfather of young Halder In point of fortune speculatists deemed them equal for though the estate of Halder was as yet unincumbered with the mortgages that hung upon that of Lord Valhurst they computed with great exactness the term of its superiority since already he had inlisted in the jockey meetings and belonged to the gaming clubs
The third a young man of a serious but pleasing demeanour was rather an attendant than a partner in this intrusion He was the only one of the whole party to whom the countenance of Camilla had announced innocence and when Halder instigated by the assertions of the facetious Girt proposed the present measure and Lord Valhurst caught by the youthful beauty of the fair subject of discussion acceded this single champion stood forth and modestly yet firmly declaring his opinion they were mistaken accompanied them with a view to protect her if he himself were right
Boisterously entering Halder addressed at once to Camilla such unceremonious praise of her beauty that affrighted and offended she hastily seized the arm of Mrs Mittin and in a voice of alarm though with an air of command that admitted no doubt of her seriousness and no appeal from her resolution said Let us go home Mrs Mittin immediately
Simple as were these words their manner had an effect upon Halder to awe and distance him Beauty in the garb of virtue is rather formidable than attractive to those who are natively unenlightened as well as habitually degenerate though over such as have ever known better sentiments it frequently retains its primeval power even in their darkest declension of depravity
But while Halder repulsed stood back and the young champion with an air the most respectful made way for her to pass Lord Valhurst shutting the door planted himself against it
Seeing terror now take possession of every feature of her face her determined protector called out Make way my Lord I beg and offered her his hand But Camilla equally frightened at them all shrunk appalled from his assistance and turned towards the window with an intention of demanding help from Edgar whom she supposed still on the beach but the peer slowly moving from the door said he was the last to mean to disconcert the young lady and only wished to stop her till he could call for his carriage that he might see her safe wherever she wished to go
Camilla had no doubt of the sincerity of this proposal but would accept no aid from a stranger even though an old man while she hoped to obtain that of Edgar Edgar however she saw not and fear is generally precipitate she concluded him gone concluded herself deserted and from knowing neither equally fearing both the young men inclined towards Lord Valhurst who with delighted surprise was going to take her under his care when Edgar rushed forward
The pleasure that darted into her eyes announced his welcome Halder from his reception thought the enigma of his own ill success solved the other youth supposing him her brother no longer sought to interfere but Lord Valhurst exhibited signs of such irrepressible mortification that inexperience itself could not mistake the dishonourable views of his offered services since to see her in safety was so evidently not their purpose Camilla looking at him with the horror he so justly excited gave her hand to Edgar who had instantly claimed it and without one word being uttered by either hastily walked away with him nimbly accompanied by Mrs Mittin
The young man whose own mind was sufficiently pure to make him give easy credit to the purity of another was shocked at his undeserved implication in so gross an attack and at his failure of manifesting the laudable motive which had made him one of the triumvirate and looking after her with mingled admiration and concern Indeed gentlemen he cried you have been much to blame You have affronted a young lady who carries in the whole of her appearance the marks of meriting respect
The sensibility of Lord Valhurst was not of sufficient magnitude to separate into two courses the little he possessed was already occupied by his disappointment in losing the beautiful prey he believed just falling into his hands and he had no emotion therefore to bestow upon his young reprover But Halder who to want of feeling added want of sense, roared out with rude raillery a gross which he thought witty attack both of the defender and the defended
The young man with the proud probity of unhackneyed sentiment made a vindication of his uncorrupt intentions which produced but louder mirth and coarser incredulity The contest however was wholly unequal one had nerves of the most irritable delicacy the other had never yet by any sensation nor any accident been admonished that nerves made any part of the human composition in proportion therefore as one became more offended the other grew more callous till the chivalry of indignant honour casting prudence safety and forbearance away dictated a hasty challenge which was accepted with a hoarse laugh of brutal senselessness of danger Courage is of another description It risks life with heroism but it is only to preserve or pursue something without which the charm of life were dissolved it meets death with steadiness but it prepares for immortality with reverence and emotion
Edgar and Camilla continued their walk in a silence painful to both but which neither knew how first to break each wished with earnestness an opening to communication and confidence but mutually shocked by the recent adventure Edgar waited the absence of Mrs Mittin to point out the impropriety and insufficiency of such a guard and Camilla still aghast with terror had no power of any sort to begin a discourse
Their taciturnity if not well supplied was at least well contrasted by the volubility of Mrs Mittin which as in the bathing house it had been incessant in declaring to the three intruders that both she and the other young lady were persons of honour was now no less unremitting in boasting how well she had checked and kept them in order
The horror of the attack she had just escaped became soon but a secondary suffering to Camilla though at the moment it had impressed her more terribly than any actual event of her life or any scene her creative imagination had ever painted yet however dreadful it was now past but who could tell the end of what remained the mute distance of Edgar her uncertainty of his intentions her suspicions of his wished secession the severe task she thought necessary to perform of giving him his liberty with the anguish of a total inability to judge whether such a step would recall his tenderness or precipitate his retreat were suggestions which quickly succeeded and in a very short time wholly domineered over every other
When they arrived at the house Edgar demanded if he might hope for the honour of being presented as a friend of the family to Mrs Berlinton
Reviving though embarrassed she looked assent and went forward to inquire if Mrs Berlinton were come home
The servant answered no but delivered her a letter from that lady she took it with a look of distress whether or not to invite Edgar to enter which the at this period welcome officiousness of Mrs Mittin relieved by saying Come let us all come in and make the parlour a little comfortable against Mrs Berlinton comes home for I dare say theres nothing as it should be These lodginghouses always want a heap of things one never thinks of before hand
They then all three entered and Mrs Mittin who saw she said a thousand ways by which she might serve and oblige Mrs Berlinton by various suggestions and even directions which she hazarded against her return busied herself to arrange the two parlours to her satisfaction and then went up stairs to settle also all there making abundant apologies for leaving them and assuring them she would be back again as soon as she possibly could get all in order
Her departure was a moment of extreme confusion to Camilla who considered it as an invitation to her great scheme of rejection but who stammered something upon every other subject to keep that off She looked at her letter wondered what it could contain could not imagine why Mrs Berlinton should write when they must so soon meet and spent in conjectures upon its contents the time which Edgar besought her to bestow upon their perusal
Nothing gives so much strength to an adversary as the view of timidity in his opponent Edgar grew presently composed and felt equal to his purposed expostulation
You decline reading your letter till I am gone cried he I must therefore hasten away Yet before I go I earnestly wish once more to take upon me the office formerly allowed me and to represent with simple sincerity my apprehensions upon what I have observed this morning
The beginning of this speech had made Camilla break the seal of her letter but its conclusion agitated her too much for reading it
Is this silence said he trying to smile to repress me as arrogant or to disregard me as impertinent
Neither she answered forcing herself to look towards him with cheerfulness it is merely attention
You are very good and I will try to be brief that I may put your patience to no longer proof than I can avoid You know already all I can urge concerning Mrs Berlinton how little I wonder at the promptness of your admiration yet how greatly I fear for the permanence of your esteem In putting yourself under her immediate and sole protection you have shewn me the complete dissonance of our judgments upon this subject but I do not forget that though you had the goodness to hear me you had the right to decide for yourself Trust indeed even against warning is so far more amiable than suspicion that it must always even though it prove unfortunate call for praise rather than censure
The confusion of Camilla was now converted into selfreproach What she thought coldness she had resented what appeared to her to be haughtiness she had resisted but truth in the form of gentleness brought her instantly to reason and reason could only resume its empire to represent as rash and imprudent an expedition so repugnant in its circumstances to the wishes and opinions of the person whose approbation was most essential to her happiness Edgar had paused and her every impulse led to a candid recognition of what she felt to be wrong but her precarious situation with him the report of his intended flight by Jacob the letters still detained of Sir Sedley Clarendel and no explanation demanded by which she could gather if his plighted honour were not now his only tie with her curbed her design depressed her courage and silently she let him proceed
Upon this subject therefore I must say no more except to hint a wish that the apprehensions which first induced me to name it may unbidden occur as timely heralds to exertion should any untoward circumstances point to danger alarm or impropriety
The new but strong friendship of Camilla was alarmed for its delicacy by these words The diffidence she felt from conscious error for herself extended not to Mrs Berlinton whom since she found guiltless she believed to be blameless She broke forth therefore into a warm eulogy which her agitation rendered eloquent while her own mind and spirits were relieved and revived by this flight from her mortified self to the friend she thought deserving her most fervent justification
Edgar listened attentively and his eyes though they expressed much of serious concern shewed also an irrepressible admiration of an enthusiasm so ardent for a female friend of so much beauty
May she always merit this generous warmth cried he which must have excited my best wishes for her welfare even if I had been insensible to her own claims upon every man of feeling But I had meant at this time to confine my ungrateful annotations to another to the person who had just quitted the room
You do not mean to name her with Mrs Berlinton to imagine it possible I can have for her any similar regard or any indeed at all but such common goodwill as all sorts and classes of people are entitled to who are well meaning
Here at least then said Edgar with a sigh half suppressed our opinions may be consonant No I designed no such disgraceful parallel for your elegant favourite My whole intention is to remonstrate can you pardon so plain a word against your appearing in public with a person so ill adapted to insure you the respect that is so every way your due
I had not the smallest idea believe me of appearing in public I merely walked out to see the town and to beguile in a stroll time which in this persons society hung heavy upon me at home in the absence of Mrs Berlinton
The concise simplicity of this innocent account banished in a moment all severity of judgment and Edgar expressively thanking her rose and was approaching her though scarcely knowing with what purpose when Mrs Mittin burst into the room exclaiming Well my dear youll never guess how many things I have done since I left you In the first place there was never a washball in the next place not a napkin nor a towel was in its proper place then the teathings were forgot and as to spoons not one could I find And now Ive a mind to go myself to a shop I took good notice of and get her a little almond powder for her nice white hands which I dare say will please her Ive thought of a hundred things at least I dare say I shall quite win her heart And Im sure of my money again if I lay out never so much And I dont know what I would not do for such a good lady
During this harangue Camilla ashamed of her want of resolution secretly vowed that if again left alone with him she would not lose a moment in restoring him his liberty that with dignity she might once more receive or with fortitude for ever resign it She thought herself at this moment capable of either but she had only thought it since his softened look and air had made her believe she had nothing to fear from the alternative
Mrs Mittin soon went though her continued and unmeaning chattery made the short term of her stay appear long
Each eager upon their own plan both then involuntarily arose
Camilla spoke first I have something she cried to say but her voice became so husky the inarticulate sounds died away unheard and blushing at so feeble an opening she strove under the auspices of a cough to disguise that she had spoken at all for the purpose of beginning in a more striking manner again
This succeeded with Edgar at this moment for he had heard her voice not her words he began therefore himself This good lady he said seems bit with the rage of obliging though not I think so heroically as much to injure her interest But surely she flatters herself with somewhat too high a recompence The heart of Mrs Berlinton is not I fancy framed for such a conquerer But how at the same time is it possible conversation such as this should be heard under her roof And how can it have come to pass that such a person
Talk of her interrupted Camilla recovering her breath some other time Let me now inquire have you burnt I hope so those foolish letters I put into your hands
The countenance of Edgar was instantly overclouded The mention of those letters brought fresh to his heart the bitterest the most excruciating and intolerable pang it had ever experienced it brought Camilla to his view no longer artless pure and singleminded but engaged to or trifling with one man while seriously accepting another No madam he solemnly said I have not presumed so far Their answers are not likely to meet with so violent a death and it seemed to me that one part of the correspondence should be preserved for the elucidation of the other
Camilla felt stung by this reply and tremulously answered Give me them back then if you please and I will take care to see them all demolished together in the same flames Meanwhile
Are you sure interrupted Edgar such a conflagration will be permitted Does the man live who would have the philosophy the insensibility I must rather style it—ever to resign after once possessing marks so distinguishing of esteem O Camilla I at least could not be that man
Cut to the soul by this question which though softened by the last phrase she deemed severely cruel she hastily exclaimed Philosophy I have no right to speak of but as to insensibility who is the man that ever more can surprise me by its display Let me take however this opportunity
A footman opening the door said his lady had sent to beg an answer to her letter
Camilla in whom anger was momentary but the love of justice permanent rejoiced at an interruption which prevented her from speaking with pique and displeasure a sentence that must lose all its purpose if not uttered with mildness She would write she said immediately and bidding the man get her pen and ink went to the window to read her letter with a formal bow of apology to Edgar as she passed him
I have made you angry cried he when the man was gone and I hate myself to have caused you a moments pain But you must feel for me Camilla in the wound you have inflicted you know not the disorder of mind produced by a sudden unlookedfor transition from felicity to perplexity from serenity to misery
Camilla felt touched yet continued reading or rather rapidly repeating to herself the words of her letter without comprehending or even seeking to comprehend the meaning of one sentence
He found himself quite unequal to enduring her displeasure his own all his cautions all Dr Marchmonts advice were forgotten and tenderly following her Have I offended he cried past forgiveness Is Camilla immoveable and is the journey from which I fondly hoped to date the renewal of every hope the termination of every doubt the period of all suffering and sorrow
He stopt abruptly from the entrance of the servant with pen and ink and the interruption was critical it called him to his selfcommand he stammered out that he would not impede her writing and though in palpable confusion took his leave yet at the streetdoor he gave a ticket with his name to the servant who attended him for Mrs Berlinton and with his best respects desired she might be told he should do himself the honour to endeavour to see her in the evening
The recollection of Edgar came too late to his aid to answer its intended purpose The tender avowal which had escaped him to Camilla of the view of his journey had first with astonishment struck her ear and next with quick enchantment vibrated to her heart which again it speedily taught to beat with its pristine vivacity and joy spirit and confidence expelled in a breath all guests but themselves
CHAPTER III
A Pleasant Adventure
Camilla was again called upon for her note before she had read the letter it was to answer but relieved now from the pressure of her own terrifying apprehensions she gave it complete and willing attention
It contained four sides of paper closely yet elegantly written in the language of romantic sentiment Mrs Berlinton said she had spent as yet only a few minutes with her aunt but they had been awfully important and since she had exacted from her a promise to stay the whole day she could not deny her disappointed friendship the transient solace of a paper conversation to sooth the lingering interval of this unexpected absence My soul pines to unburden the weight of its sorrows into thy sympathising bosom my gentlest friend but oh there let them not sojourn receive but to lighten listen but to commiserate and then far far thence dismiss them retaining but the remembrance thou hast dismissed them with consolation She then bewailed the time lost to soft communication and confidence in their journey from the presence of others for though one was a brother she so truly loved she found notwithstanding the tenderness of his nature he had the prejudices of a man upon mans prerogatives and her woes called for soothing not arguments and the other she briefly added was but an accidental passenger Tis in thee only O my beauteous friend I would trust the sad murmurs of my irreversible and miserable destiny of which I have learnt but this moment the cruel and desperate secret cause She reserved however the discovery for their meeting and called upon her pity for her unfortunate brother as deeply involved in his future views as she in her past by this mystery And have I written this much she burst forth without speaking of the cherished correspondent whom so often I have described to thee Ah believe me not faithless to that partner of my chosen esteem that noble that resistless possessor of my purest friendship No charming Camilla think not so degradingly of her whom fate in its sole pitying interval has cast into thy arms Two pages then ensued with this exclusive encomium painting him chief in every virtue and master of every grace She next expressed her earnestness to see Indiana who Camilla had told her would be at Southampton Present me I conjure thee to the fair and amiable enslaver of my unhappy brother I die to see to converse with her to catch from her lovely lips the modest wisdom with which he tells me they teem to read in her speaking eyes the intelligence which he assures me illumines them She concluded with desiring her to give what orders she pleased for the coach and the servants and to pass the day with her friends
Camilla whose own sensations were now revived to happiness read the letter with all the sympathy it claimed and felt her eyes fill with generous tears at the contrast of their situations yet she highly blamed the tenderness expressed for the unknown correspondent though its innocence she was sure must vanquish even Edgar since its so constant avowal proved it might be published to all mankind She answered her in language nearly as affectionate though less inflated than her own and resolved to support her with Edgar till her sweetness and purity should need no champions but themselves She was ashamed of the species of expectation raised for Indiana yet knew not how to interfere in Melmonds idea of her capacity lest it might seem unkind to represent its fallaciousness but she was glad to find her soft friend seemed to have a strict guardian in her brother and wished eagerly to communicate to Edgar a circumstance which she was sure would be so welcome to him
Impatient to see Eugenia she accepted the offer of the carriage and desirous to escape Mrs Mittin begged to have it immediately but that notable person came to the door at the same time as the coach and without the smallest ceremony said she would accompany her to the hotel in order to take the opportunity of making acquaintance with her friends
Courage frequently at least in females becomes potent as an agent where it has been feeble as a principal Camilla though she had wished upon her own account to repress Mrs Mittin in the morning had been too timid for such an undertaking but now in her anxiety to oblige Edgar she gathered resolution for declining her company She then found as is generally the case with the fearful the task less difficult than she had expected for Mrs Mittin content with a promise selfmade that the introduction should take place the next day said she would go and help Mrs Berlintons woman to unpack her ladys things which would make a useful friend for her in the house for a thousand odd matters
The carriage of Sir Hugh was just driving off as Camilla arrived at the hotel
She hurried from Mrs Berlintons coach demanding which way the company was gone and being answered by a passing waiter up stairs ran on at once without patience or thought for asking if she should turn to the right or left till seeing a gentleman standing still upon the landing place and leaning upon the bannisters she was retreating to desire a conductor when she perceived it was Dr Orkborne who while the ladies were looking at accommodations and inquiring about lodgings in profound cogitation and with his tablets in his hands undisturbed by the various noises around him and unmoved by the various spectators continually passing and repassing was finishing a period which he had begun in the coach for his great work
Camilla cheerfully greeting him begged to know which way she should find Eugenia but making her a sign not to speak to him he wrote on Accustomed to his manner and brought up to respect whatever belonged to study from the studious life and turn of her father she obeyed the mute injunction and waited quietly by his side till tired of the delay though unwilling to interrupt him she glided softly about the passage watching and examining if she could see any of the party yet fearing to offend or mortify him if she called for a waiter
While straying about thus as far off as she could go without losing sight of Dr Orkborne a door she had just passed was flung open and she saw young Halder whose licentious insolence had so much alarmed her in the bathinghouse stroam out yawning stretching and swearing unmeaningly but most disgustingly at every step
Terrified at his sight she went on as she could not get to the Doctor without passing him but the youth recollecting her immediately called out Ah ha are you there again you little vixen and pursued her
Dr Orkborne Dr Orkborne she rather screamed than said pray come this way I conjure—I beseech—I entreat—Dr Orkborne—
The Doctor catching nothing of this but his name querulously exclaimed You molest me much but without raising his eyes from his tablets while Halder at the appeal cried Ay ay Doctor keep your distance Doctor you are best where you are Doctor I can tell you Doctor
Camilla then too much scared to be aware she ran a far greater risk than she escaped desperately sought refuge by opening the nearest door though by the sudden noises upon the stairs and in all the adjoining passages it seemed as if Dr Orkborne were the only one not alarmed by her cries
No one however could approach so soon as the person of whose chamber she had burst the door who was an old gentleman of a good and lively countenance who promptly presenting himself looked at her with some surprise but good humouredly asked her what she was pleased to want in his room
That gentleman she cried panting and meaning to point to Dr Orkborne that gentleman I want sir but such a medley of waiters company and servants had in a moment assembled in the space between them that the Doctor was no longer to be discerned
Do you only open my door then said he drily to tell me you want somebody else
Yet when Halder vowing he owed her an ill turn for which she should pay would have seized her by the hand he protected with his own arm saying Fie boy fie let the girl alone I dont like violence
A gentleman now forcing himself through the crowd exclaimed Miss Camilla Tyrold Is it possible what can you do here madam
It was Dr Marchmont whom the affrighted Camilla springing forward could only answer in catching by the arm
Tyrold repeated the old gentleman Is her name Tyrold
Sorry now to have pronounced it in this mixt company Dr Marchmont evaded any answer and begging her to be composed asked whither or to whom he might have the honour of conducting her
Almost all my family are here cried she but I could not make Dr Orkborne shew me the way to them
The old gentleman then repeating Tyrold why if her name is Tyrold Ill take care of her myself invited her into his apartment
Dr Marchmont thanking him said This young lady has friends who in all probability are now uneasily seeking her we must lose no time in joining them
Well but well cried the old stranger let her come into my room till the coast is clear and then take her away in peace Come theres a good girl come in do youre heartily welcome for theres a person of your name thats the best friend I ever had in the world Hes gone from our parts now but hes left nothing so good behind Pray my dear did you ever hear of a gentleman an old Yorkshire Baronet of your name
What my uncle
Your uncle why are you niece to Sir Hugh Tyrold
Upon her answering yes he clapped his hands with delight and saying Why then Ill take care of you myself if its at the risk of my life carried rather than drew her into his room the Doctor following Then loudly shutting his door in the face of Halder he called out Enter my castle who dare I shall turn a young man myself at the age of seventy to drub the first varlet that would attack the niece of my dear old friend
They soon heard the passage clear and without deigning to listen to the petulant revilings with which young Halder solaced his foolish rage Why my dear he continued why did not you tell me your name was Tyrold at once I promise you you need carry nothing else with you into our parts to see all the doors fly open to you You make much of him I hope where he is for he left not a dry eye for twenty miles round when he quitted us I dont know how many such men you may have in Hampshire but Yorkshires a large county yet the best man in it would find it hard to get a seat in Parliament where Sir Hugh Tyrold would offer himself to be a candidate We all say in Yorkshire hes so stuffed full of goodness and kindness that theres no room left in him for anything else thats our way of talking of him in Yorkshire if you have a better way in Hampshire I shall be glad to learn it never too late for that I hate pride
No possible disturbance could make Camilla insensible to pleasure in the praise of her uncle or depress her spirits from joining in his eulogy and her attention and brightening looks drew a narrative from the old gentleman of the baronets good actions and former kindnesses so pleasant both to the speaker and the hearer that the one forgot he had never seen her before and the other the frightful adventure which occasioned their meeting now
Dr Marchmont at length looking at his watch inquired what she meant to do to seek her sister and party she answered and returning her host the warmest acknowledgments for his assistance and goodness she was going but stopping her How now he cried dont you want to know who I am Now I have told you I am a friend of your uncle dont you suppose hell ask you my name
Camilla smiling assured him she wished much to be informed but knew not how to trouble him with the question
Why my name my dear is Westwyn and when you say that to your uncle he wont give you a sour look for your pains take my word for that beforehand I carried over his nephew and heir a cousin I suppose of yours to Leipsic with me about eight years ago along with a boy of my own Hal Westwyn a very good lad I assure you though I never tell him so to his face for fear of puffing him up I hate a boy puffed up he commonly comes to no good thats the only fault of my honoured friend he spoils all young people—witness that same cousin of yours that I cant say I much like no more does he me but tell your good uncle you have met me and tell him I love and honour him as I ought to do I dont know how to do more or else I would tell him this my dear And I have not forgot what he did for me once when I was hard run and I dont intend it Im no friend to short memories
Camilla said his name and her uncles regard for him had long been familiar to her and told him Clermont Lynmere was of the party to Southampton though she knew not how to enter abruptly into an explanation of his mistake concerning the inheritance Mr Westwyn answered he was in no hurry to see Clermont who was not at all to his taste but would not quit Hampshire without visiting Cleves and when he gathered that two more nieces of Sir Hugh were in the house he desired to be presented to them
Upon reentering the passage to the great amusement of Dr Marchmont and serious provocation of Camilla they perceived Dr Orkborne standing precisely where he had first stationed himself attending no more to the general hubbub than to her particular entreaty and as regardless of the various jolts he had received during the tumult as of the obstruction he caused by his inconvenient position to the haste of the passers by Still steadily reposing against the bannisters he worked hard at refining his paragraph persuaded since not summoned by Miss Margland he had bestowed upon it but a few minutes though he had been fixed to that spot near an hour
Miss Margland received Camilla with a civility which since her positive and public affiance to Edgar she thought necessary to the mistress of Beech Park but she looked upon Dr Marchmont whom she concluded to have been her advocate with a cold illwill which for Mr Westwyn she seasoned still more strongly by a portion of contemptuous haughtiness from a ready disposition to believe every stranger not formally announced beneath her notice
The Doctor soon retired and found Edgar in his apartment just returned from a long stroll He recounted to him the late transaction with reiterated exhortations to circumspection from added doubts of the solidity though with new praise of the attractions of Camilla She seems a character he said difficult to resist and yet more difficult to attach Nothing serious appears to impress her for two minutes together Let us see if the thoughtlessness and inadvertence thus perpetually fertile of danger result from youthful inexperience or have their source in innate levity Time and reason will rectify the first but time and even reason will but harden and embolden the latter Prudence therefore must now interfere or passion may fly when the union it has formed most requires its continuance
CHAPTER IV
An Authors Timekeeper
Mr Westwyn charmed to meet so many near relations of a longvalued friend struck by the extraordinary beauty of Indiana and by the sensible answers of the child as he called Eugenia as well as caught by the united loveliness of person and of mind which he observed in Camilla could not bring himself to retire till the dinner was upon the table pleading in excuse for his stay his former intimacy with Sir Hugh Miss Margland seeing in him nothing that marked fashion strove to distance him by a high demeanour but though not wanting in shrewdness Mr Westwyn was a perfectly natural man and only thinking her manners disagreeable without suspecting her intention took but little notice of her from the time he saw she could give him no pleasure while with the young party he was so much delighted that he seriously regretted he had only one son to offer amongst them
When the dinner was served Eugenia grew uneasy that Dr Orkborne should be summoned whose nonappearance she had not ventured to mention from the professed hatred of his very sight avowed by Miss Margland But Camilla brought up to exert constantly her courage for the absent told the waiter to call the gentleman from the head of the stairs
My master himself maam he answered as well as me both told the gentleman the company he came with were served but he as good as bid us both hold our tongues He seems to have taken a great liking to that place upon the stairs though theres nothing I know of particular in it
But if you tell him we wait dinner— cried Eugenia when Miss Margland interrupting her said Im sure then you wont tell him true for I beg we may all begin I think it would be rather more decorous he should wait for us
The waiter nevertheless went but presently returned somewhat ruffled saying The gentleman does not choose to hear me maam He says if he maynt be let alone one single minute it will be throwing away all his morning I cant say I know what he means but he speaks rather froppish Id as lieve not go to him again if you please
Miss Margland declared she wished him no better dinner than his pothooks but did not doubt he would come just before they had done as usual and he was no more mentioned though she never in her life eat so fast and the table was ordered to be cleared of its covers with a speed exactly the reverse of the patience with which the Doctor was indulged on similar occasions by the baronet
Miss Margland when the cloth was removed proposed a sally in search of lodgings Camilla and Eugenia desirous of a private conference begged to remain within though the latter sought to take care of her absent preceptor before she could enjoy the conversation of her sister and when Miss Margland and Indiana in secret exultation at his dinnerless state had glided with silent simpering past him flew to beseech his consent to take some nourishment
Such however was his present absorption in what he was writing that the voluntary kindness of his pupil was as unwelcome as the forced intrusion of the waiter and he conjured her to grant him a little respite from such eternal tormenting with the plaintive impatience of deprecating some injury
The sisters now equally eager to relate and to listen to their mutual affairs shut themselves up in the apartment of Eugenia who with the greatest simplicity began the discourse by saying Have you heard my dear sister that Clermont has refused me
Camilla was severely shocked Accustomed herself to the face and form of Eugenia which to her innocent affection presented always the image of her virtuous mind and cultivated understanding she had not presaged even the possibility of such an event and though she had seen with concern the inequality of their outward appearance Clermont had seemed to her in all else so inferior to her sister that she had repined at his unworthiness but never doubted the alliance
She was distressed how to offer any consolation but soon found none was required Eugenia was composed and contented though pensive and not without some feeling of mortification Yet anger and resentment had found no place in the transaction Her equity acknowledged that Clermont had every right of choice but while her candour induced her to even applaud his disinterestedness in relinquishing the Cleves estate her capacity pointed out how terrible must be the personal defects that so speedily without one word of conversation one trial of any sort how their tastes tempers or characters might accord stimulated him to so decisive a rejection This view of her unfortunate appearance cast her at first into a train of melancholy ideas, that would fast have led her to unhappiness though wholly unmixed with any regret of Clermont had not the natural philosophy of her mind come to her aid or had her education been of a more worldly sort
When Camilla related her own history her plan of making Edgar again completely master of his own proceedings met the entire approbation of Eugenia who with a serious smile said Take warning by me my dear sister and little as you have reason to be brought into any comparison with such a one as me anticipate the disgrace of defection
Camilla much touched embraced her sincerely wishing she were half as faultless as her excellent self
The return of Miss Margland and Indiana obliged them to quit their retreat and they now found Dr Orkborne in the diningroom Having finished his paragraph he had sought his party of his own accord but meeting with no one had taken a book from his pocket with which he meant to beguile the appetite he felt rising till the hour of dinner which he had not the smallest suspicion was over for of the progress of time he had no knowledge but by its palpable passage from the sun to the moon his watch was never wound up and the morning and the evening were but announced to him by a summons to breakfast and to supper
The ladies seated themselves at the window Indiana was enchanted by the concourse of gay and welldressed people passing by and far from insensible to the visible surprise and pleasure she excited in those who cast up their eyes at the hotel Eugenia to whom a great and populous town was entirely new found also in the diversity as well as novelty of its objects much matter for remark and contemplation Miss Margland experienced the utmost satisfaction in seeing at last some faces and some things less rustic than had been presented to her in Yorkshire or at Cleves and Camilla had every hope that this place in Edgars own expression would terminate every perplexity and give local date to her lifes permanent felicity
In a few minutes a youth appeared on the opposite pavement whose air was new to none of the party yet not immediately recollected by any It was striking however in elegance and in melancholy Eugenia recollected him first and starting back gasped for breath Indiana the next moment called out Ah its Mr Melmond and blushing high her whole face was bright and dimpled with unexpected delight
He walked on without looking up and Indiana simply piqued as well as chagrined said she was glad he was gone
But Eugenia looked after him with a gentle sigh which now first she thought blameless and a pleasure which though half mournful she now suffered herself to encourage Free from all ties that made her shun this partiality as culpable she secretly told herself she might now without injury to any one indulge it for an object whom little as he was known to her she internally painted with all the faultless qualities of ideal excellence
From these meditations she was roused by Dr Orkbornes looking rather wishfully round him and exclaiming Pray dont we dine rather late
The mistake being cleared up by Miss Marglands assuring him it was impossible to keep dinner waiting all day for people who chose to stand whole hours upon a staircase he felt rather discomforted but when Eugenia privately ordered him a repast in his own chamber he was amply consoled by the unconstrained freedom with which he was empowered to have more books upon the table than plates and to make more ink spots than he eat mouthfuls
Camilla had the mortification to find upon her return home that Edgar had made his promised visit not only in her absence but while Mrs Berlinton was still with her aunt
The lady then communicated to Camilla the secret to which while yet in ignorance of its existence, she now found she had been sacrificed Mrs Ecton two years ago had given her hand in the most solemn privacy to her butler who now attended her to Southampton To avoid disobliging a sick old relation from whom she expected a considerable legacy she had prevailed with her husband to consent that the marriage should not be divulged but certain that whatever now might be her fortune she had no power to bequeath it from her new connexion the terror of leaving utterly destitute a beautiful young creature who believed herself well provided for had induced her to nearly force her acceptance of an almost superannuated old man of family who merely coveting her beauty inquired not into her inclination The same latent cause had made her inexorable to the pleadings of young Melmond who conceiving his fortune dependent upon the pleasure of his aunt his certain income being trifling thought it his duty to fly the fair object of his adoration when he discovered the deceit of Lionel with regard to the inheritance of Sir Hugh This sick old relation was now just dead and had left to her sole disposal a considerable estate The husband naturally refused to be kept any longer from his just rights but the shame she felt of making the discovery of a marriage contracted clandestinely after she was sixty years of age with a man under thirty threw her into a nervous fever And in this state unable to reveal to her nephew an event which now affected him alone she prevailed with Mr Ulst who was willing to revisit his original home Southampton to accompany her thither in his usual capacity till she had summoned her nephew and niece and acquainted them with the affair
To herself Mrs Berlinton said the evil of this transaction had been over while yet it was unknown she had heard it therefore in silence and forborne unavailing reproach But her brother to whom the blow was new and the consequences were still impending was struck with extreme anguish that while thus every possible hope was extinguished with regard to his love he must suddenly apply himself to some business or be reduced to the most obscure poverty
Camilla heard the account with sincere concern for them both much heightened for young Melmond upon finding that by his express desire his sister now relinquished her design of cultivating an acquaintance with Indiana whom he had the virtue to determine to avoid since his fortune and even his hopes were thus irretrievably ruined
They conversed together to a late hour and Camilla before they parted made the most earnest apologies for the liberty taken with her house by Mrs Mittin but Mrs Berlinton with the utmost sweetness begged she might stay till all her business with her was settled smilingly adding business alone she was sure could bring them together
Much relieved she then determined to press Mrs Mittin to collect and pay her accounts immediately and to avoid with her in the meanwhile any further transactions
CHAPTER V
An agreeable Hearing
Early the next morning Camilla went to the hotel in the carriage of Mrs Berlinton eluding though not without difficulty the company of Mrs Mittin She found the party all in good spirits Indiana in particular was completely elated joined to the admiration she believed awaiting her in this large and fashionable town she now knew she might meet there the only person who had ever excited in her youthful and nearly vacant breast any appropriate pleasure superadded to the general zest of being adored She did not indeed think of marrying any one who could not offer her a coach and four but so little was she disturbed by thinking at all that the delight of being adulated by the man she preferred carried with it no idea of danger Eugenia too soothed with the delusions of her romantic but innocent fancy flattered herself she might now see continually the object she conceived formed for meriting her ever reverential regard and Miss Margland was importantly occupied upon affairs best suited to her taste and ancient habits in deliberating how first to bring forth her fair charge with the most brilliant effect
Camilla was much embarrassed how to parry an introduction to Mrs Berlinton upon which all the females built as the foundation of their Southampton prosperity the young ones already informed she was the sister of Melmond languishing to know her for his sake and Miss Margland formerly acquainted with the noble family of her husband being impatient to resume her claims in similar circles but an awkward beginning apology was set aside by the entrance of Edgar and Dr Marchmont
Indiana now poured forth innumerable questions upon what she might look forward to with respect to balls and public places Eugenia asked nearly as many concerning the buildings antiquities and prospects and Miss Margland more than either relative to the company their genealogies and connexions The two Doctors soon sat aloof conferring upon less familiar matters but Edgar only spoke in reply and Camilla uttered not a word
Soon after a voice on the stairs called out O never mind shewing me the way if I come to a wrong room Ill go on till I come to a right and the next minute young Lynmere sallied into the apartment
I could not get to you last night cried he and I can only stay a moment now I have a pretty serious business upon my hands so if you can give me any breakfast dont lose time
Miss Margland willing to please the brother of Indiana readily ordered for him whatever the inn would afford of which he failed not heartily to partake saying I have met with a good comic sort of adventure here already Guess what it is
Indiana complied but his own wish to communicate was so much stronger than that of anyone to hear that before she could pronounce three words he cried Well if youre so excessive curious Ill tell it you Im engaged in a duel
Indiana screamed Miss Margland echoed her cry Eugenia who had looked down from his entrance raised her eyes with an air of interest Camilla was surprised out of her own concerns and Edgar surveyed him with an astonishment not wholly unmixt with contempt but the two Doctors went on with their own discourse
Nay nay Dye dont be frightened tis not a duel in which I am to fight myself I am only to be second But suppose I were first what signifies these are things we have in hand so often we dont think of them
La brother you dont say so cried Indiana La how droll He then pretended that he would tell nothing more
Camilla inquired if he had seen Mr Westwyn whom she had met with the preceding day
Not I faith but thats apropos enough for its his son that has asked me to be his second
O poor good old Mr Westwyn cried Camilla now much interested in this history and can you not save him such a shock can you not be mediator instead of second he seems so fond of his son
O as to him its no matter hes such a harsh old hunks I shall be glad to have him worked a little Ive often wanted to pull him by the nose myself he takes such liberties with me But did you ever hear of such a fool as his son he deserves to be badgered as bad as his father hes going to fight with as fine an honest fellow as ever I met with for nothing at all absolutely nothing
Dear how droll said Indiana
But why can you not interfere cried Camilla poor Mr Westwyn will be made so unhappy if any evil befalls his son
O faith as to him he may take it as he will I shant trouble my head about him he has made free enough with me I can assure you its only to have him out of the way that the business is put off till noon it was to have been in the morning but the old tyrant took it into his pate to make poor Henry who is one of your good ones and does nothing to vex him on purpose ride out with him he has promised however to get off by twelve oclock when four of us are to be at a certain spot that I shant name
Camilla again began to plead the merits of the father but Indiana more urgently demanded the reason of the combat I dare say brother they fight about being in love with somebody dont they brother now do tell me
Not a whit its for a girl he dont care a straw for and never saw but once in his life and dont care a farthing if he never sees again
Dear how droll brother I thought people always fought about being in love with somebody they wanted to marry and never but when she was excessive pretty
O faith marriage seldom deserves a fighting match but as to being pretty thats all Harry has in his excuse so he pretends shes as divine as an angel
Dear well and dont you know anything more than that about it
No nor he neither he only saw her at a bathing house where a fine jolly young buck was paying her a few compliments that she affected not to like and presently in a silly dispute whether she was a girl of character they had a violent quarrel and Harry was such a fool as to end it with a challenge
At the words a bathing house the blood forsook the cheeks of Camilla with sudden personal alarm but it mounted high into them again upon hearing the nature of the dispute though yet again it sunk and left them wholly pallid at the brief and final conviction she was the sole cause of this duel and upon so disgraceful a dispute
The emotions of Edgar though less fearful were not less violent nor painful That Camilla should be the subject of any challenge was shocking but of such a one he thought a dishonour yet to prevent and with the least publicity its effect was the immediate occupation of his mind
A short pause ensued broken presently by Clermont who looking at his watch suddenly jumped up and calling out Faith I shall be too late was capering out of the room but the shame of Camilla in the disgrace was overpowered by her terror of its consequences and starting up and clasping her hands O cousin O Clermont she cried for Heavens sake stop this affair
Clermont satisfied that a sufficient alarm was raised to impede the transaction without any concession on his part declared himself bound in honour to attend the appointment and in extreme seeming haste and earnestness walked off stopping however when he came to the door not to listen to the supplications of his cousin but to toss off a fresh cup of chocolate which a waiter was just carrying to the next room
Camilla now her face varying in colour twenty times in a minute and her whole frame shaking while her eyes were cast conscious and timid on the floor approached Edgar and saying This young mans father is my dear uncles friend burst into tears
Edgar wholly dissolved took her hand pressed it to his lips besought her in a low voice to dismiss her apprehensions in the confidence of his most ardent exertions and again kissing her hand with the words Too O far too dear Camilla hastened after Lynmere
Affected in a thousand ways she dropt weeping upon a chair Should the duel take place and any fatal consequences follow she felt she should never be happy again and even should it be prevented its very suggestion from so horrible a doubt of her character seemed a stain from which it could never recover The inconsiderate facility with which she had wandered about with a person so little known to her so underbred and so forward appeared now to herself inexcusable and she determined if but spared this dreadful punishment to pass the whole of her future life in unremitting caution
Eugenia with the kindest sympathy and Indiana and Miss Margland with extreme curiosity sought to discover the reason of her emotion but while begging them to dispense with an explanation old Mr Westwyn was announced and appeared
The horrors of a culprit the most cruel as well as criminal seemed instantly the portion of the self-condemned Camilla and as he advanced with cheerful kindness to inquire after her health his ignorance that all his happiness through her means was that moment at stake pierced her with a suffering so exquisite that she uttered a deep groan and sunk back upon her chair
An instants recollection brought her more of fortitude though not of comfort and springing up and addressing though not looking at Mr Westwyn who was staring at her with astonishment and concern Where sir she cried is your son If you have the least knowledge which way he is gone which way he may be traced pursue and force him back this moment Immediately
My son repeated the good old gentleman wanting no other word to participate in any alarm what Hal Westwyn—
Follow him seek him send for him and do not a single instant lose sight of him all day
My dear young lady what do you mean Ill send for him to be sure if you desire it but what makes you so good as to think about my son did you ever see my son do you know my son do you know Hal Westwyn
Dont ask now dear sir secure him first and make what inquiries you please afterwards
Mr Westwyn in evident consternation walked out Camilla herself opening the door but turning back in the passage strongly said If the boy has been guilty of any misbehaviour I wont support him I dont like misbehaviour its a bad thing I cant take to it
O no no quite the contrary exclaimed the agitated Camilla he is good kind generous I owe him the greatest obligation and I desire nothing upon earth so much at this moment as to see him and to thank him
The old gentlemans eyes now filled with tears and coming back and most affectionately shaking hands with her I was afraid he had misbehaved he cried but he was always a good lad and if he has done any thing for the niece of my dear Sir Hugh Tyrold I shall hug him to my heart and then in great but pleased perturbation he hurried away saying to himself as he went Ill take him to her to be sure I desire nothing better God bless her If she can speak so well of my poor Hal she must be the best girl living and she shall have him yes she shall have him if shes a mind to him and I dont care if she int worth a groat shes niece to my old friend thats better
Camilla speeding but not hearing him returned to her seat yet could not answer one question from the horrors of her fears and her shame of the detail of the business
When the breakfast was over Miss Margland desired everyone would get ready to go to the lodgings and with Indiana repaired herself to visit them and give general orders Dr Marchmont had glided out of the room in anxiety for Edgar to the great dissatisfaction and almost contempt of Dr Orkborne with whom he was just discussing some controverted points upon the shield of Achilles which that he could quit for the light concerns of a young man added again to his surmises that though he had run creditably the usual scholastic race his reputation was more the effect of general ability and address than of such sound and consummate learning as he himself possessed Ruminating upon the ignorant injustice of mankind in suffering such quacks in literature and philology to carry the palm of fame he went to his chamber to collect from his bolster and bedside the hoard of books and papers from which the preceding night he had disencumbered his coat waistcoat and great coat pockets inside and out to review before he could sleep and which now were again to encircle him to facilitate their change of abode
But Eugenia would not quit her afflicted sister who soon in her gentle breast deposited the whole of her grief her apprehensions and her plans charging her instantly to retire if Edgar should return that whatever might be the event he should unfold she might release him immediately from an engagement that his last words seemed to avow did not make him happy and that probably he now repented The design was so consonant to the native heroism of Eugenia that she consented with applause to aid its execution
About half an hour which seemed to be prolonged to twenty times the duration of the whole day passed in terrible expectation Edgar then appeared and Eugenia suspending her earnest curiosity to comply with the acute feelings of her sister retreated
Camilla could scarce breathe she stood up her eyes and mouth open her face pale her hands uplifted waiting but not daring to demand intelligence
Edgar entering into her distress with a tenderness that drove from him his own eagerly satisfied her All he cried is safe the affair has been compromised no duel has taken place and the parties have mutually pledged themselves to forget the dispute
Tears again but no longer bitter flowed copiously down her cheeks while her raised eyes and clasped hands expressed the fervency of her thankfulness
Edgar extremely touched took her hand he wished to seize a moment so nearly awful to enforce upon her mind every serious subject with which he most desired it to be impressed but sorrow was ever sacred to him and desiring only at this period to console her This adventure he cried has now terminated so well you must not suffer it to wound you Dismiss it sweet Camilla from your memory at least till you are more composed
No sir cried Camilla to whom his softness by restoring her hope of an ultimately happy conclusion restored strength it ought never to be dismissed from my memory and what I am now going to say will fix it there indelibly
Edgar was surprised but pleased his most anxious wishes seemed on the point of being fulfilled he expected a voluntary explanation of every perplexity a clearance of all mystery
I am sensible that I have appeared to you she resumed in many points reprehensible in some perhaps inexcusable
Inexcusable O no never never
The letters of Sir Sedley Clarendel I know you think I ought not to have received
Edgar biting his nails looked down
And indeed I acknowledge myself in that affair a most egregious dupe
She blushed but her blush was colourless to that of Edgar Resentment against Sir Sedley beat high in every vein while disappointment to his delicacy in the idea of Camilla duped by any man seemed in one blow to detach him from her person by a sudden dissolution of all charm to his mind in the connection
Camilla saw too late she had been too hasty in a confession which some apologising account should have preceded but what her courage had begun pride now aided her to support and she continued
For what belongs to that correspondence and even for its being unknown to my friends I may offer perhaps hereafter something in exculpation hereafter I say building upon your long family regard for though we part it will be I trust in amity
Part repeated Edgar recovering from his displeasure by amazement
Yes part said she with assumed firmness it would be vain to palliate what I cannot disguise from myself I am lessened in your esteem She could not go on imperious shame took possession of her voice crimsoned her very forehead blushed even in her eyes demolished her strained energy and enfeebled her genuine spirit
But the conscious taciturnity of Edgar recalled her exertions struck and afflicted by the truth she had pronounced he could not controvert it he was mute but his look spoke keen disturbance and bitter regret
Not so low however am I yet I trust fallen in your opinion that you can wonder at the step I now take I am aware of many errours I know too that appearances have often cruelly misrepresented me my errours you might have the candour to forget and false appearances I could easily clear in my own favour—but where and what is the talisman which can erase from my own remembrance that you have thought me unworthy
Edgar started but she would not give him time to speak what she had last uttered was too painful to her to dwell upon or hear answered and rapidly and in an elevated manner she went on
I here therefore solemnly release you from all tie all engagement whatever with Camilla Tyrold I shall immediately acquaint my friends that henceforth we Both are Free
She was then retiring Edgar confounded by a stroke so utterly and every way unexpected neither answering nor interposing till he saw her hand upon the lock of the door In a voice then that spoke him cut to the soul though without attempting to stop her This then he cried Camilla is your final adieu
She turned round and with a face glowing and eyes glistening held out to him her hand I knew not if you would accept she said a kinder word or I should have assured you of my unaltered regard and have claimed the continuance of your friendship and even if your patience is not utterly exhausted of your watchful counsel Farewell remember me without severity my own esteem must be permanent as my existence
The door here was opened by Miss Margland and Indiana and Camilla hastily snatched away the hand which Edgar grasping with the fondness of renovated passion secretly meant to part with no more till a final reconciliation once again made it his own but compelled to yield to circumstance he suffered it to be withdrawn and while she darted into the chamber of Eugenia to hide her deep emotion from Indiana who was tittering and Miss Margland who was sneering at the situation in which she was surprised he abruptly took leave himself too much impressed by this critical scene to labour for uninteresting discourse
CHAPTER VI
Ideas upon Marriage
While in the bosom of her faithful sister Camilla reposed her feelings and her fears alternately rejoicing and trembling in the temerity of the resolution she had exerted Edgar sought his not less faithful nor honourable but far more worldly friend Dr Marchmont
He narrated with extreme emotion the scene he had just had with Camilla asserting her possession of every species of excellence from the nobleness of her rejection and abhorring himself for having given her a moments doubt of his fullest esteem Not a solicitude he declared now remained with him but how to appease her displeasure satisfy her dignity and recover her favour
Softly softly said the Doctor measure your steps more temperately ere you run with such velocity If this refusal is the result of an offended sensibility you cannot exert yourself too warmly in its consolation even if it is from pride it has a just claim to your concessions since she thinks you have injured it yet pause before you act may it not be merely from a confidence of power that loves to tyrannize over its slaves by playing with their chains or a lurking spirit of coquetry that desires to regain the liberty of trifling with some new Sir Sedley Clarendel or perhaps with Sir Sedley himself
Dr Marchmont how wretchedly ill you think of women
I think of them as they are I think of them as I have found them They are artful though feeble they are shallow yet subtle
You have been unfortunate in your connexions
Yet who had better prospects with energies as warm with hopes as alive as your own twice have I conducted to the altar two beings I thought framed for my peculiar felicity but my peace my happiness and my honour have been torn up by the root exactly where I thought I had planted them for my whole temporal existence This heart which to you appears hard and suspicious has been the dupe of its susceptibilities first in a creature of its own choice next where it believed itself chosen That first Mandlebert had you seen her you would have thought as I thought her myself an angel She was another Camilla
Another Camilla
Grace sweetness and beauty vied in her for preeminence Yes another Camilla though I see your incredulity I see you think my comparison almost profane and that grace sweetness and beauty waited the birth of Camilla to be made known to the world Such however she was and I saw and loved at once I knew her character fair I precipitately made my addresses and concluded myself beloved in return because I was accepted
Edgar shrunk back and cast down his eyes
Nor was it till the moment heartbreaking yet to my recollection of her sudden death that I knew the lifeless soulless inanimate frame was all she had bestowed upon me In the private drawer of her bureau I then found a pocketbook In the first leaf I saw a gentlemans name I turned over and saw it again I looked further and still it met my view I opened by chance but nothing else appeared there it was still traced in every hand charactered in every form shape and manner the wayward wistful eye could delight to fashion for varying yet beholding it without end while over the intermediate spaces verses quotations short but affecting sentences were every where scattered bewailing the misery of disappointed hope and unrequited love of a heartless hand devoted at the altar of vows enchaining liberty not sanctifying affection I then alas too late dived deeper with then useless investigation and discovered an early passion never erased from her mind discovered that I had never made her happy that she was merely enduring suffering me while my whole confiding soul was undividedly hers
Edgar shuddered at this picture But why then he cried since she seemed amiable as well as fair why did she accept you
Ask half the married women in the nation how they became wives they will tell you their friends urged them that they had no other establishment in view that nothing is so uncertain as the repetition of matrimonial powers in women and that those who cannot solicit what they wish must accommodate themselves to what offers This first adventure however, is now no longer useful to you though upon its hard remembrance was founded my former caution but I am even myself satisfied at present that the earliest partiality of Camilla has been yours what now you have to weigh is the strength or inadequacy of her character for guiding that partiality to your mutual happiness My second melancholy history will best illustrate this difficulty You may easily believe the last of my intentions was any further essay in a lottery I had found so inauspicious but while cold even to apathy it was my inevitable chance to fall in the way of a pleasing and innocent young creature who gave me unsought and unwishedfor her heart The boon nevertheless soon caught my own for what is so alluring as the voluntary affection of a virtuous woman
Well cried Edgar and what now could disturb your tranquillity
The insufficiency of that heart to its own decision I soon found her apparent predilection was simply the result of the casualty which brought me almost exclusively into her society but unmarked by any consonance of taste feeling or understanding Her inexperience had made her believe since she preferred me to the few who surrounded her I was the man of her choice with equal facility I concurred in the same mistake for what is so credulous as selflove But such a regard the child of accident not selection was unequal upon the discovery of the dissimilarity of our dispositions to the smallest sacrifice My melancholy returned with the view of our mutual delusion lassitude of pleasing was the precursor of discontent Dissipation then in the form of amusement presented itself to her aid retirement and books came to mine My resource was safe though solitary hers was gay but perilous Dissipation with its usual Proteus powers from amusement changed its form to temptation allured her into dangers impeached her honour and blighted her with disgrace I just discerned the precipice whence she was falling in time to avert the dreadful necessity of casting her off for ever but what was our life thence forward Cares unparticipated griefs uncommunicated stifled resentments and unremitting weariness She is now no more and I am a lonely individual for the rest of my pilgrimage
Take warning my dear young friend by my experience The entire possession of the heart of the woman you marry is not more essential to your first happiness than the complete knowledge of her disposition is to your ultimate peace
Edgar thanked him in deep concern to have awakened emotions which the absorption of study and influence of literature held generally dormant The lesson however which they inculcated he engaged to keep always present to his consideration though but for the strange affair of Sir Sedley Clarendel he should feel confident that in Camilla there was not more of exterior attraction than of solid excellence and with regard to their concordance of taste and humour he had never seen her so gay nor so lovely as in scenes of active benevolence or domestic life She had promised to clear hereafter the transaction with Sir Sedley but he could not hold back for that explanation hurt already by his apparent scruples she had openly named them as the motives of her rejection could he then shew her he yet demurred without forfeiting all hope of a future accommodation
Delicacy said Dr Marchmont though the quality the most amiable we can practise in the service of others must not take place of common sense and sound judgment for ourselves Her dismission does not discard you from her society on the contrary it invites your friendship
Ah Doctor what innocence what sweetness does that very circumstance display
Learn however their concomitants ere you yield to their charms learn if their source is from a present yet accidental preference or from the nobler spring of elevated sentiment The meeting you surprised with Sir Sedley the presumption you acknowledge of his letters and the confession made by herself that she had submitted to be duped by him
O Dr Marchmont what harrowing drawbacks to felicity And how much must we rather pity than wonder at the errors of common young women when a creature such as this is so easy to be misled
You must not imagine I mean a censure upon the excellent Mr Tyrold when I say she is left too much to herself the purity of his principles and the virtue of his character must exempt him from blame but his life has been both too private and too tranquil to be aware of the dangers run by Female Youth when straying from the mothers careful wing All that belongs to religion and to principle he feels and he has taught but the impediments they have to encounter in a commerce with mankind he could not point out for he does not know Yet there is nothing more certain than that seventeen weeks is not less able to go alone in a nursery than seventeen years in the world
This suggestion but added to the bias of Edgar to take her if possible under his own immediate guidance
Know first cried the Doctor if to your guidance she will give way know if the affair with Sir Sedley has exculpations which render it single and adventitious or if there hang upon it a lightness of character that may invest caprice chance or fickleness with powers of involving such another entanglement
CHAPTER VII
How to treat a Defamer
As the lodgings taken by Miss Margland could not be ready till the afternoon Camilla remained with her sister a sojourn which while it consoled her with the society and gratified her by the approbation of Eugenia had yet another allurement it detained her under the same roof with Edgar and his manner of listening to her rejection and his undisguised suffering before they were parted led her to expect he might yet demand a conference before she quitted the hotel
In about an hour as unpleasantly as unceremoniously they were broken in upon by Mrs Mittin
How monstrous lucky my dear cried she to Camilla that I should find you and your little sister for I suppose this is she together I went into your diningroom to ask for you and there I met those other two ladies and Ive made acquaintance with em I assure you already for I told them I was on a visit at the Honourable Mrs Berlintons So Ive had the opportunity to recommend some shops to em and Ive been to tell some of the good folks to send them some of their nicest goods for em to look at for really since Ive been bustling a little about here Ive found some of the good people so vastly obliging I cant but take a pleasure in serving em and getting em a few customers especially as I know a little civility of that sort makes one friends surprisingly Often and often have I got things under prime cost myself only by helping a person on in his trade So one cant say good natures always thrown away However I come now on purpose to put a note into your own hands from Mrs Berlinton for all the servants were out of the way except one and he wanted to be about something else so I offered to bring it and she was very much pleased so I fancy its about some secret for she never offered to shew it me but as to the poor man I saved from the walk Ive won his heart downright I dare say hell go of any odd errand for me now without vails Thats the best of good nature it always comes home to one
The note from Mrs Berlinton contained a tender supplication for the return of Camilla and a pressing and flattering invitation that her sister should join their little party as the motives of honour and discretion which made her at the request and for the sake of her brother sacrifice her eagerness to be presented to Miss Lynmere operated not to impede her acquaintance with Miss Eugenia
This proposition had exquisite charms for Eugenia To become acquainted with the sister of him to whom henceforward she meant to devote her secret thoughts enchanted her imagination Camilla therefore negotiated the visit with Miss Margland who though little pleased by this separate invitation knew not how to refuse her concurrence but Indiana indignant that the sister of Melmond should not first have waited upon her and solicited her friendship privately resolved in pique of this disrespect to punish the brother with every rigour she could invent
Camilla upon her return found Mrs Mittin already deeply engaged in proposing an alteration in the dress of Eugenia which she was aiding Molly Mill to accomplish and so much she found to say and to do to propose and to object to to contrive and to alter that from the simplicity of the mistress and the ignorance of the maid the one was soon led to conclude she should have appeared improperly before Mrs Berlinton without such useful advice and the other to believe she must shortly have lost her place now her young lady was come forth into the world if she had not thus miraculously met with so good a friend
During these preparations Camilla was summoned back to the diningroom to receive Mr Westwyn
She did not hear this call with serenity The danger which however unwittingly she had caused his son and the shocking circumstances which were its foundation tingled her cheeks and confounded her wish of making acknowledgments with an horror that such an obligation could be possible
The door of the diningroom was open and as soon as her steps were heard Mr Westwyn came smiling forth to receive her She hung back involuntarily but pacing up to her and taking her hand Well my good young lady he cried I have brought you my son but hes no boaster that I can assure you for though I told him how you wanted him to come to you and was so good as to say you were so much obliged to him I cant make him own he has ever seen you in his life which I tell him is carrying his modesty over far I dont like affectation I have no taste for it
Camilla discovering by this speech as well as by his pleased and tranquil manner that he had escaped hearing of the intended duel and that his son was still ignorant whose cause he had espoused ardently wished to avert farther shame by concealing herself and step by step kept retreating back towards the room of Eugenia though she could not disengage her hand from the old gentleman who trying to draw her on said Come my dear dont go away Though my son wont confess what he has done for you he cant make me forget that you were such a dear soul as to tell me yourself of his good behaviour and of your having such a kind opinion of him And I have been telling him and I can assure you Ill keep my word that if he has done a service to the niece of my dear old friend Sir Hugh Tyrold it shall value him fifty pound ayear more to his income if I straighten myself never so much For a lad that knows how to behave in that manner will never spend his money so as to make his old father ashamed of him And thats a good thing for a man to know
Indeed sir this is some mistake said the young man himself now advancing into the passage while Camilla was stammering out an excuse from entering its some great mistake I have not the honour to know
He was going to add Miss Tyrold but he saw her at the same moment and instantly recollecting her face stopt blushed and looked amazed
The retreating effort of Camilla her shame and her pride all subsided by his view and gave place to the more generous feelings of gratitude for his intuitive good opinion and emotion for the risk he had run in her defence and with an expression of captivating sweetness in her eyes and manner That you did not know me she cried makes the peculiarity of your goodness which indeed I am more sensible to than I can express
Why there there now there cried Mr Westwyn while his son enchanted to find whose character he had sustained bowed almost to the ground with respectful gratitude for such thanks only but listen she says the very same things to your face that she said behind your back though I am afraid its only to please an old father for if not I cant for my life find out any reason why you should deny it Come Hal speak out Hal
Equally at a loss how either to avow or evade what had passed in the presence of Camilla young Westwyn began a stammering and awkward apology but Camilla feeling doubly his forbearance said Silence may in you be delicate but in me it would be graceless Then turning from him to old Mr Westwyn you may be proud sir she cried of your son It was the honour of an utter stranger he was protecting as helpless as she was unknown at the time she excited his interest nor had he even in view this poor mede he now receives of her thanks
My dearest Hal cried Mr Westwyn wringing him by the hand if you have but one small grain of regard for me dont persist in denying this Id give the last hundred pounds I had in the world to be sure it was true
That to hear the name of this lady said the young man should not be necessary to inspire me with respect for her who can wonder that any opportunity could arise in which she should want defence is all that can give any surprise
You own it then my dear Hal you own youve done her a kindness why then my dear Hal youve done one to me and I cant help giving you a hug for it let who will think me an old fool
He then fervently embraced his son who confused though gratified strove vainly to make disclaiming speeches No no my dear Hal he cried you shant let yourself down with me again I promise you though youve two or three times tried to make me think nothing of you but this young lady here dear soul speaks another language she says I may be proud of my son and I dare say she knows why for shes a charming girl as ever I saw so I will be proud of my son Poor dear Hal thou hast got a good friend I can tell thee in that young lady and shes niece to the best man I ever knew and I value her good opinion more than anybodys
You are much too good cried Camilla in an accent of tender pleasure the result of grateful joy that she had not been the means of destroying the paternal happiness of so fond a father joined to the dreadful certainty how narrowly she had escaped that misery you are much too good and I blush even to thank you when I think—
What she meant to add was in a moment forgotten and that she blushed ceased to be metaphorical when now as they all three entered the diningroom together the first object that met her eyes was Edgar
Their eyes met not again delighted and conscious she turned hers hastily away He comes thought she to claim me he will not submit to the separation he comes to reassure me of his esteem and to receive once more my faithful heart
Edgar had seen by chance the Westwyns pass to the room of the Cleves party and felt the most ardent desire to know if they would meet with Camilla and what would be her reception of her young champion whose sword with extreme trouble he had himself that morning sheathed and whose gallantry he attributed to a vehement however sudden passion Dr Marchmont acknowledged the epoch to be highly interesting for observation and presuming upon their old right of intimacy with all the party they abruptly made a second visit
Miss Margland and Indiana who were examining some goods sent by Mrs Mittin had received them all four without much mark of civility and Mr Westwyn immediately desired Camilla to be sent for and kept upon the watch till her step made him hasten out to meet her
Edgar could not hear unmoved the dialogue which ensued he imagined an amiable rival was suddenly springing up in young Westwyn at the very moment of his own dismission which he now even thought possible this incipient conquest had urged and when Camilla walking between the father and the son with looks of softest sensibility came into the room he thought he had never seen her so lovely and that her most bewitching smiles were purposely lavished for their captivation
With this idea he found it impossible to speak to her their situation indeed was too critical for any common address and when he saw that she turned from him he attempted to converse with the other ladies upon their purchases and Camilla left to her two new beaux had the unavoidable appearance of being engrossed by them though the sight of Edgar instantly robbed them of all her real attention
Soon after the door was again opened and Mr Girt the young perfumer came smirking and scraping into the room with a box of various toys essences and cosmetics recommended by Mrs Mittin
Ignorant of the mischief he had done her and not even recollecting to have seen him Camilla made on to look at his goods but Edgar to whom his audacious assertions were immediately brought back by his sight would have made him feel the effects of his resentment had not his passion for Camilla been of so solid as well as warm a texture as to induce him to prefer guarding her delicacy to any possible display he could make of his feelings to others or even to herself
Mr Girt in the midst of his exhibition of memorandum books smelling bottles toothpick cases and pocket mirrours with washes to immortalize the skin powders becoming to all countenances and pomatums to give natural tresses to old age suddenly recollected Camilla The gross mistake he had made he had already discovered by having dodged her to the house of Mrs Berlinton but all alarm at it hid ceased by finding through a visit made to his shop by Mrs Mittin that she was uninformed he had propagated it Not gifted with the discernment to see in the air and manner of Camilla her entire though unassuming superiority to her accidental associate he concluded them both to be relations of some of the upper domestics and with a look and tone descending from the most profound adulation with which he was presenting his various articles to Miss Margland and Indiana into a familiarity the most facetious O dear maam he cried I did not see you at first I hope tother ladys well thats been so kind as to recommend me Indeed I saw her just now
Young Westwyn to whom as to Edgar the bold defamation of Girt occurred with his presence but whom none of the nameless delicacies of the peculiar situation and peculiar character of Edgar restrained into silence felt such a disgust at the presumption of effrontery that gave him courage for this facetious address to a young lady whose innocence of his ill usage made him think its injury double that unable to repress his indignation he abruptly whispered in his ear Walk out of the room sir
The amazed perfumer at this haughty and unexpected order stared and cried aloud No offence I hope sir
Mr Westwyn asked what was the matter while Camilla crimsoned by the familiar assurance with which she had been addressed retired to a window
Nothing of any moment sir answered Henry and again in a low but still more positive voice he repeated his command to Girt
Sir Im not used to be used in this manner answered he hardily and hoping by raising his tone for the favourable intervention of the company
Indiana now was preparing to scream and Miss Margland was looking round to see whom she should reprehend but young Westwyn coolly opening the door with a strong arm and an able jerk twisted the perfumer into the passage saying You may send somebody for your goods
Girt who equally strong but not equally adroit as Henry strove in vain to resist vowed vengeance for this assault Henry without seeming to hear him occupied himself with looking at what he had left Camilla felt her eyes suffuse with tears and Edgar for the first time in his life found himself visited by the baleful passion of envy
Miss Margland could not comprehend what this meant Indiana comprehended but too much in finding there was some disturbance of which she was not the object; but Mr Westwyn losing his look of delight said with something of severity Ha what did you turn that man out of the room for
He is perfectly aware of my reason sir said Henry and then added it was a long story which he begged to relate another time
The blank face of Mr Westwyn shewed displeasure and mortification He lifted the head of his cane to his mouth and after biting it for some time with a frowning countenance muttered I dont like to see a man turned out of a room If hes done any harm tell him so and if its worse than harm souse him in a horsepond Ive no objection But I dont like to see a man turned out of a room its very unmannerly and I did not think Hal would do such a thing Then suddenly and with a succinct bow bidding them all good bye he took a hasty leave still however muttering all the way along the passage and down the stairs loud enough to be heard Kicking and jerking a man about does not prove him to be in the wrong I thought Hal had been more of a gentleman If I dont find the man turns out to be a rascal Hal shall beg his pardon for I dont like to see a man turned out of a room
Henry whose spirit was as irritable as it was generous felt acutely this public censure which though satisfied he did not deserve every species of propriety prohibited his explaining away With a forced smile therefore and a silent bow he followed his father
Miss Margland and Indiana now burst forth with a torrent of wonders conjectures and questions but the full heart of Camilla denied her speech and the carriage of Mrs Berlinton being already at the door she called upon Eugenia and followed perforce by Mrs Mittin left the hotel
Edgar and Dr Marchmont gave neither surprise nor concern by retiring instantly to their own apartment
Dr Marchmont said the former, in a tone of assumed moderation I have lost Camilla I see it plainly This young man steps forward so gallantly so ingenuously nay so amiably that the contrast chill severe and repulsive must render me in this detestable state insupportable to all her feelings Dr Marchmont I have not a doubt of the event
The juncture is indeed perilous and the trial of extremest hazard but it is such as draws all uncertainty to a crisis and therefore, is not much to be lamented You may safely I think rest upon it your destiny To a general female heart a duel is the most dangerous of all assaults and the most fascinating of all charms and a duellist though precisely what a woman most should dread as most exposing her to public notice is the person of all others she can commonly least resist By this test then prove your Camilla Her champion seems evidently her admirer and his father her adorer Her late engagement with you may possibly not reach them or reaching but with its dissolution serve only to render them more eager
Do you suppose him cried Edgar after a pause of strong disturbance do you suppose him rich
Certainly not That the addition of fifty pounds ayear to his income should be any object proves his fortune to be very moderate
Clear her then at least said he with a solemnity almost reproachful clear her at least of every mercenary charge If I lose her he gasped for breath she will not you find be bought from me and pique anger injustice nay inconstancy all are less debasing than the sordid corruption of which you suspected her
This does not necessarily prove her disinterested she is too young yet to know herself the value she may hereafter set upon wealth And independent of that inexperience there is commonly so little stability so little internal hold in the female character that any sudden glare of adventitious lure will draw them for the moment from any and every regular plan of substantial benefit It remains therefore now to be tried if Beech Park and its master united can vie with the bright and intoxicating incense of a life voluntarily risked in support not of her fair fame that was unknown to its defender but simply of the fair countenance which seemed its pledge
Edgar heartless and sad attempted no further argument he thought the Doctor prejudiced against the merits of Camilla yet it appeared even to himself that her whole conduct from the short period of his open avowal had seemed a wilful series of opposition to his requests and opinions And while terror for surrounding dangers gave weight to his disapprobation of her visiting Southampton with a lady she knew him to think more attractive than safe or respectable her sufferance of the vulgar and forward Mrs Mittin with whom again he saw her quit the hotel was yet more offensive since he could conceive for it no other inducement than a careless if not determined humour to indulge every impulse in equal contempt of his counsel and her own reflection
All blame however of Camilla was short of his selfdissatisfaction in the distance imposed upon him by uncertainty and the coldness dictated by discretion At a period so sensitive when her spirit was alarmed and her delicacy was wounded that a stranger should start forward to vindicate her innocence and chastise its detractors was singular was unfortunate was nearly intolerable and he thought he could with thankfulness have renounced half his fortune to have been himself the sole protector of Camilla
CHAPTER VIII
The Power of Prepossession
The two sisters were silent from the hotel to the house of Mrs Berlinton From the height of happiest expectation raised by the quick return of Edgar Camilla was sunk into the lowest despondence by the abortive conclusion of the meeting while Eugenia was absorbed in mute joy and wrapt expectation But Mrs Mittin undisturbed by the pangs of uncertainty and unoccupied by any romantic persuasion of bliss spoke amply with respect to quantity for all three
Mrs Berlinton though somewhat struck at first sight of Eugenia with her strange contrast to Camilla received her with all the distinguishing kindness due to the sister of her friend
She had the poems of Collins in her hand and at their joint desire instead of putting the book aside read aloud and with tenderest accent one of his most plaintive odes
Eugenia was enraptured Ah thought she this is indeed the true sister of the accomplished Melmond She shall share with him my adoration My heart shall be devoted after my own dear family to the homage of their perfections
The ode to her great delight lasted till the dinner was announced when Melmond appeared but her prepossession could alone give any charm to his sight he could barely recollect that he had seen her or even Camilla before he had conversed with neither his eyes had been devoted to Indiana and the despondence which had become his portion since the news of the marriage of his aunt seemed but rendered the more peculiarly bitter by this intimate connection with the family of an object so adored
Yet though nothing could be more spiritless than the hour of dinner Eugenia discovered in it no deficiency she had previously settled that the presence of Melmond could only breathe sweets and perfection and the magic of prejudice works every event into its own circle of expectation
Melmond did not even accompany them back to the drawingroom Eugenia sighed but nobody heard her Mrs Mittin said she had something of great consequence to do in her own room and Mrs Berlinton to divert the languor she found creeping upon them all had recourse to Hammonds elegies
These were still reading when a servant brought in the name of Lord Valhurst O deny me to him deny me to him cried Mrs Berlinton tis a relation of Mr Berlintons and I hate him
The order was given however too late he entered the room
The name as Camilla knew it not she had heard unmoved but the sight of a person who had so largely contributed to shock and terrify her in the bathinghouse struck her with horror Brought up with the respect of other times she had risen at his entrance but she turned suddenly round upon recollecting him and instead of the courtsie she intended making involuntarily moved away her chair from the part of the room to which he was advancing
This was unnoticed by Mrs Berlinton whose chagrin at his intrusion made her wish to walk away also while with Lord Valhurst it only passed joined to her rising for a mark of her being but little accustomed to company That Eugenia rose too was not perceived as she rather lost than gained in height by standing
Most obsequiously but most unsuccessfully the peer made his court to Mrs Berlinton inquiring after her health with fulsome tenderness and extolling her good looks with nearly gross admiration Mrs Berlinton listened for she was incapable of incivility though weary and disgusted she seldom made the smallest answer
The two sisters might with ease equally have escaped notice since though Mrs Berlinton occasionally addressed them the peer never turned from herself had not Mrs Mittin abruptly entering in search of a pair of scissors perceived him and hastily called out O lauk sir if it is not you I know you again well enough But I hope now you see us in such good company as this good ladys youll believe me another time when I tell you were not the sort of persons you took us for Miss Tyrold my dear I hope youve spoke to the gentleman
Lord Valhurst with difficulty recollected Mrs Mittin from the very cursory view his otherwise occupied eyes had taken of her but when the concluding words made him look at Camilla whose youth and beauty were not so liable to be forgotten he knew at once her associate and was aware of the meaning of her harangue
Sorry to appear before his fair kinswoman to any disadvantage though by no means displeased at an opportunity of again seeing a young creature he had thought so charming he began an apology to Mrs Mittin while his eyes were fixed upon Camilla vindicating himself from every intention that was not respectful and hoping she did not so much injure as to mistake him
Mrs Mittin was just beginning to answer that she knew better when the words Why my Lord how have you offended Mrs Mittin dropping from Mrs Berlinton instantly new strung all her notions To find him a nobleman was to find him innocent for though she did not quite suppose that a peer was not a mortal she had never spoken to one before and the power of title upon the ear like that of beauty upon the eye is in its first novelty allcommanding manifold as are the drawbacks to the influence of either when awe is lost by familiarity and habitual reflection takes place of casual and momentary admiration Title then as well as beauty demands mental auxiliaries and those who possess either more watched than the common race seem of higher responsibility but proportioned to the censure they draw where they err is the veneration they inspire where their eminence is complete Nor is this the tribute of prejudice as those who look up to all superiority with envy love to aver the impartial and candid reflectors upon human frailty who in viewing it see with its elevation its surrounding temptations will call it but the tribute of justice
To Mrs Mittin however the mere sound of a title was enough she felt its ascendance without examining its claims and dropping the lowest courtsie her knees could support confusedly said she hoped his lordship would excuse her speaking so quick and improperly which she only did from not knowing who he was for if she had known him better she should have been sure he was too much the gentleman to do anything with an ill design
His lordship courteously accepted the apology and advanced to Camilla to express his hopes she had not participated in such injurious suspicions
She made no answer and Mrs Berlinton inquired what all this meant
I protest my dear madam said the peer I do not well comprehend myself I only see there has been some misunderstanding but I hope this young lady will believe me when I declare upon my honour that I had no view but to offer my protection at the time I saw her under alarm
This was a declaration Camilla could not dispute and even felt inclined to credit from the solemnity with which it was uttered but to discuss it was every way impossible and therefore coldly bowing her head she seemed acquiescent
Lord Valhurst now pretty equally divided his attention between these two beautiful young women looking at and complimenting them alternately till a servant came in and said The two Mr Westwyns desire to see Miss Tyrold
Camilla did not wish to avoid persons to whom she was so much obliged but begged she might receive them in the next apartment that Mrs Berlinton might not be disturbed
The eager old gentleman stood with the door in one hand and his son in the other awaiting her My dear young lady he cried I have been hunting you out for hours Your good governess had not a mind to give me your direction thinking me I suppose but a troublesome old fellow and I did not know which way to turn till Hal found it out Hals pretty quick So now my dear young lady let me tell you my errand which I wont be tedious in for fear another time you may rather not see me And the more I see you the less I like to think such a thing However with all my good will to make haste I must premise one thing as it is but fair Hal was quite against my coming upon this business But I dont think it the less right for that and so I come I never yet saw any good of a mans being ruled by his children It only serves to make them think their old fathers superannuated And if once I find Hal taking such a thing as that into his head Ill cut him off with a shilling well as I love him
Your menace sir said Henry colouring though smiling gives me no alarm for I see no danger But shall we not detain Miss Tyrold too long from her friends
Ay now there comes in what I take notice to be the taste of the present day a lad can hardly enter his teens before he thinks himself wiser than his father and gives him his counsel and tells him what he thinks best And if a man int upon his guard he may be run down for an old dotard before he knows where he is and see his son setting up for a member of parliament making laws for him Now this is what I dont like so I keep a tight hand upon Hal that he maynt do it For Hals but a boy maam though hes so clever Not that I pretend Id change him neither for eer an old fellow in the three kingdoms Well but now Ill tell you what I come for You know how angry I was about Hals turning that man out of the room well I took all the pains I could to come at the bottom of the fray intending all the time to make Hal ask the mans pardon and now what do you think is the end Why Ive found out Hal to be in the right The man proves to be a worthless fellow that has defamed the niece of my dear Sir Hugh Tyrold and if Hal had lashed him with a catoninetails I should have been glad of it I cant say I should have found fault So you see my dear young lady I was but a cross old fellow to be so out of sorts with poor Hal
Camilla with mingled gratitude and shame offered her acknowledgments though what she heard astonished if possible even more than it mortified her How in the world thought she can I have provoked this slander
She knew not how little provocation is necessary for calumny nor how regularly the common herd where appearances admit two interpretations decide for the worst Girt designed her neither evil nor good but not knowing who nor what she was simply filled up the doubts in his own mind by the bias of his own character
Confused as much as herself Henry proposed immediately to retire and as Camilla did not invite them to stay Mr Westwyn could not refuse his consent though sending his son out first he stopt to say in a low voice What do you think of Hal my dear young lady Int he a brave rogue And did not you tell me I might be proud of my son And so I am I promise you How do you think my old friend will like Hal I shall take him to Cleves Hes another sort of lad to Master Clermont I hope my dear young lady you dont like your cousin Hes but a sad spark I give you my word Not a bit like Hal
When the carriage came for Eugenia who was selfpersuaded this day was the most felicitous of her life she went so reluctantly that Mrs Berlinton caught by her delight in the visit though unsuspicious of its motive invited her to renew it the next morning
At night Mrs Mittin following Camilla to her chamber said See here my dear what do you say to this Did you ever see a prettier cloak look at the cut of it look at the capes look at the mode! And as for the lace I dont think all Southampton can produce its fellow what do you say to it my dear
What every body must say to it Mrs Mittin that its remarkably pretty
Well now try it on Theres a set theres a fall off the shoulders do but look at it in the glass Id really give something you could but see how it becomes you Now do pray only tell me what you think of it
Always the same Mrs Mittin that its extremely pretty
Well my dear then now comes out the secret Its your own you may well stare but its true its your own my dear
She demanded an explanation and Mrs Mittin said that having taken notice that her cloak looked very mean by the side of Mrs Berlintons when she compared them together she resolved upon surprising her with a new one as quick as possible She had therefore got the pattern of Mrs Berlintons and cut it out and then got the mode at an haberdashers and then the lace at a milliners and then set to work so hard that she had got it done already
Camilla seeing the materials were all infinitely richer than any she had been accustomed to wear was extremely chagrined by such officiousness and gravely inquired how much this would add to her debts
I dont know yet my dear but I had all the things as cheap as possible but as it was not all at one shop I cant be clear as to the exact sum
Camilla who had determined to avoid even the shadow of a debt and to forbear every possible expence till she had not one remaining was now not merely vexed but angry Mrs Mittin however upon whose feelings that most troublesome of all qualities to its possessors delicacy never obtruded went on extolling her own performance and praising her own good nature without discovering that either were impertinent and so far from conceiving it possible they could be unwelcome that she attributed the concern of Camilla to modesty on account of her trouble and mistook her displeasure for distress what she could do for her in return And indeed when she finished her double panegyric upon the cloak and its maker with confessing she had sat up the whole night in order to get it done Camilla considered herself as too much obliged to her intention to reproach any further its want of judgment and concluded by merely entreating she would change her note pay for it immediately discharge her other accounts with all speed and make no future purchase for her whatsoever
CHAPTER IX
A Scuffle
Eugenia failed not to observe her appointment the next morning which was devoted to elegiac poetry A taste so similar operated imperceptibly upon Mrs Berlinton who detained her till she was compelled to return to prepare for a great ball at the public rooms the profound deliberations of Miss Margland how to exhibit her fair pupil having finished like most deliberations upon such subjects by doing that which is done by every body else upon the same occasion
Sir Hugh had given directions to Miss Margland to clear his three nieces equally of all expenses relative to public places Camilla therefore being entitled to a ticket and having brought with her whatever was unspoilt of her Tunbridge apparel thought this the most seasonable opportunity she could take for again seeing Edgar who in their present delicate situation would no longer probably think it right to inquire for her at a strangers
Mrs Berlinton had not purposed appearing in public till she had formed her own party but an irrepressible curiosity to see Indiana induced her to accompany Camilla with no other attendant than Lord Valhurst
Mrs Mittin sought vainly to be of the party Mrs Berlinton though permitting her stay in her house and treating her with constant civility had no idea of including her in her own society which she aimed to have always distinguished by either rank talents or admirers and Camilla who now felt her integrity involved in her economy was firm against every hint for assisting her with a ticket
Lord Valhurst who alone of the fashionable sojourners had yet discovered the arrival of Mrs Berlinton was highly gratified by this opportunity of attending two such fair creatures in public
Mrs Berlinton as usual was the last to enter the room for she never began the duties of the toilette till after teatime Two such youthful beauties were not likely to pass without observation
Mrs Berlinton already no longer new to it had alternately the air of receiving it with the most winning modesty or of not noticing she received it at all for though but a few months since she had scarcely been even seen by twenty persons and even of those had never met a fixed eye without a blush the feelings are so often the mere concomitants of the habits that she could now already know herself the principal object of a whole assembly without any sensation of timidity or appearance of confusion To be bold was not in her nature which was soft and amiable but admiration is a dangerous assaulter of diffidence and familiarity makes almost any distinction met unmoved
Camilla was too completely engrossed by her heart to think of her appearance
Lord Valhurst from his time of life seemed to be their father though his adulating air as little suited that character as his inclination He scarce knew upon which most to lavish his compliments or to regale his eyes and turned half expiring with ecstasy from the soft charms of his kinswoman with something he thought resembling animation to the more quickening influence of her brighteyed companion
But the effect produced upon the company at large by the radiant beauty of Indiana who had entered some time was still more striking than any immediate powers from all the bewitching graces of Mrs Berlinton and all the intelligent loveliness of Camilla Her faultless face her perfect form raised wonder in one sex and overpowered envy in the other The men looked at her as at something almost too celestial for their devoirs the women even the most charming amongst them saw themselves distanced from all pretensions to rivalry She was followed but not approached gazed at as if a statue and inquired after rather as a prodigy than a mortal
This awful homage spread not however to her party the watchful but disdainful eyes of Miss Margland obtained for herself even with usury all the haughty contempt they bestowed upon others Eugenia was pronounced to be a foil brought merely in ridicule and Dr Orkborne whom Miss Margland though detesting forced into the set in preference to being without a man to hand them from the carriage and to call it for them at night had a look so forlorn and distressed while obliged to parade with them up and down the room that he seemed rather a prisoner than an esquire and more to require a guardian to prevent his escaping himself than to serve for one in securing his young charges from any attack
Miss Margland augured nothing short of half a score proposals of marriage the next day from the evident brilliancy of this first opening into life of her beautiful pupil whose own eyes while they dazzled all others sought eagerly those of Melmond which they meant to vanquish if not annihilate
The first care of Miss Margland was to make herself and her young ladies known to the master of the ceremonies Indiana needed not that precaution to be immediately the choice of the most elegant man in the room yet she was piqued not delighted and Miss Margland felt still more irritated that he proved to be only a baronet though a nobleman at the same time had presented himself to Eugenia It is true the peer was ruined but his title was unimpaired and though the fortune of the baronet like his person was in its prime Indiana thought herself degraded by his hand since the partner of her cousin was of superior rank
Eugenia insensible to this honour looked only for Melmond not like Indiana splendidly to see and kill but silently to view and venerate Melmond however was not there he knew his little command over his passion in presence of its object; he knew too that the expence of public places was not beyond the propriety of his income and virtuously devoted his evening to his sick aunt
Edgar had waited impatiently the entrance of Camilla His momentary sight of Lord Valhurst at the bathingroom did not bring him to his remembrance in his present more shewy apparel and he was gratified to see only an old beau in her immediate suite He did not deem it proper as they were now circumstanced to ask her to dance but he quietly approached and bowed to her and addressed some civil inquiries to Mrs Berlinton The Westwyns had waited for her at the door and the father had immediately made her give her hand to Henry to join the dancers
Thats a charming girl cried old Mr Westwyn when she was gone a very charming girl I promise you I have taken a prodigious liking to her and so has Hal
Revived by this open speech which made him hope there was no serious design Edgar smiled upon the old gentleman who had addressed it to the whole remaining party and said You have not known that young lady long I believe sir
No sir but a little while but that I dont mind A long while and a short while is all one when I like a person for I dont think how many years theyve got over their heads since first I saw them but how many good things theyve got on the inside their hearts to make me want to see them again Her uncles the dearest friend I have in the world and when I go from this place I shall make him a visit for Im sure of a welcome But he has never seen my Hal However that good girl will be sure to speak a kind word for him I know for she thinks very well of him she told me herself I might be proud of my son I cant say but Ive loved the girl ever since for it
Edgar was so much pleased with the perfectly natural character of this old gentleman that though alarmed at his intended call upon the favour of Sir Hugh through the influence of Camilla for Henry he would yet have remained in his society had he not been driven from it by the junction of young Lynmere whose shallow insolence he thought insupportable
Mrs Berlinton who declined dancing had arrived so late that when Henry led back Camilla the company was summoned to the teatable She was languishing for an introduction to Indiana the absence of Melmond obviating all present objection to their meeting she therefore gave Camilla the welcome task to propose that the two parties should unite
Many years had elapsed since Miss Margland had received so sensible a gratification and in the coalition which took place she displayed more of civility in a few minutes than she had exerted during the whole period of her Yorkshire and Cleves residence
Notwithstanding all she had heard of her charms Mrs Berlinton still saw with surprise and admiration the exquisite face and form of the chosen of her brother whom she now so sincerely bewailed that had her own wealth been personal or transferrable she would not have hesitated in sharing it with him to aid his better success
Lord Valhurst adhered tenaciously to his kinswoman and the three gentlemen who had danced the last dances with Indiana Eugenia and Camilla asserted the privilege of attending their partners at the teatable
In a few minutes Lynmere coming up to them with Well have you got any thing here one can touch leant his hand on the edge and his whole body over the table to take a view at his ease of its contents
Suppose there were nothing sir said old Westwyn look round and see what you could want
Really sir said Miss Margland between whom and Camilla Lynmere had squeezed himself a place you dont use much ceremony
Having taken some tea he found it intolerable and said he must have a glass of Champagne
La brother cried Indiana if you bring any wine I cant bear to stay
Miss Margland said the same but he whistled and looked round him without answering
Mrs Berlinton who though she had thought his uncommonly fine person an excuse for his intrusion thought nothing could excuse this illbreeding proposed they should leave the teatable and walk
Sit still ladies said Mr Westwyn and drink your tea in peace Then turning to Lynmere I wonder he cried you ant ashamed of yourself If you were a son of mine Ill tell you what Id lock you up Id serve you as I did when I carried you over to Leipsic eight years ago I always hated pert boys I cant fancy em
Lynmere affecting not to hear him though inwardly firing called violently after a waiter and in mere futile vengeance not only gave an order for Champagne but demanded some Stilton cheese
Cheese exclaimed Miss Margland if you order any cheese I cant so much as stay in the room Think what a nauseous smell it will make
The man answered they had no Stilton cheese in the house but the very best of every other sort
Lynmere who had only given this command to shew his defiance of control seized with equal avidity the opportunity to abuse the waiter affirming he belonged to the worst served hotel in Christendom
The man walked off in dudgeon and Mr Westwyn losing his anger in his astonishment at this effrontery said And pray Mr Lynmere what do you pretend to know of Stilton cheese do they make it at Leipsic did you ever so much as taste it in your life
O yes excellent excellentissimo I can eat no other
Eat no other its well my Hal dont say the same Id churn him to a cheese himself if he did And pray Mr Lynmere be so good as to let me know how you got it there
Ways and means sir ways and means
Why you did not send across the sea for it
A travelled man sir thinks no more of what you call across the sea than you that live always over your own fireside think of stepping across a kennel
Well sir well said the old gentleman now very much piqued I cant but say I feel some concern for my old friend to have his money doused about at such a rantipole rate A boy to be sending over out of Germany into England for Stilton cheese I wish it had been Hal with all my heart I promise you Id have given him enough of it If the least little thought of the kind was but once to have got in his head Id have taken my best oaken stick and have done him the good office to have helped it out for him and have made him thank me after too I hate daintiness especially in boys I have no great patience with it
Only more incensed Lynmere called aloud for his Champagne The waiter civilly told him it was not usual to bring wine during tea but he persisted and Mr Westwyn who saw the ladies all rising authoritatively told the waiter to mind no such directions Lynmere who had entered the ballroom in his ridingdress raised a switch at the man which he durst not raise at Mr Westwyn and protested in a threatening attitude he would lay it across his shoulders if he obeyed not The man justly provoked thought himself authorised to snatch if from him Clermont resisted a fierce scuffle ensued and though Henry by immediate intervention could have parted them Mr Westwyn insisted there should be no interference saying If any bodys helped let it be the waiter for hes here to do his duty he dont come only to behave unmannerly for his own pleasure And if I see him hard run its odds but I lend him my own fist to right him—I like fair play
The female party in very serious alarm at this unpleasant scene rose to hurry away Lord Valhurst was ambitious to suffice as guardian to both his fair charges but Henry when prohibited from stopping the affray offered his services to Camilla who could not refuse them and Mrs Berlinton active and impatient flew on foremost with more speed than his lordship could follow or even keep in sight Indiana was handed out by her new adorer the young baronet and Eugenia was assisted by her new assailer the young nobleman
Edgar who had hurried to Camilla at the first tumult was stung to the heart to see who handed her away and forcing a passage followed till Henry the envied Henry deposited her in the carriage of Mrs Berlinton
The confusion in the room meanwhile was not likely soon to decrease for old Mr Westwyn delighted by this mortifying chastisement to Clermont would permit neither mediation nor assistance on his side saying with great glee It will do him a great deal of good My poor old friend will bless me for it This is a better lesson than he got in all Leipsic Let him feel that a Mans a Man and not take it into his head a persons to stand still to be switched when hes doing his duty according to his calling Switching a man is a bad thing I cant say I like it A gentleman should always use good words and then a poor mans proud to serve him or if hes insolent for nothing he may trounce him and welcome Ive no objection
Miss Margland meanwhile had not been remiss in what she esteemed a most capital feminine accomplishment screaming though in its exercise she had failed of any success since while her voice called remark her countenance repelled its effect Yet as she saw that not one lady of the group retreated unattended she thought it a disgrace to seem the only female who from internal courage or external neglect should retire alone she therefore called upon Dr Orkborne conjuring in a shrill and pathetic voice meant more for all who surrounded than for himself that he would protect her
The Doctor who had kept his place in defiance of all sort of inconvenience either to himself or to others and who with some curiosity was viewing the combat which he was mentally comparing with certain pugilistic games of old was now for the first time in the evening receiving some little entertainment and therefore composedly answered I have a very good place here maam and I would rather not quit it till this scene is over
So you wont come then Doctor cried she modulating into a soft whine the voice which rage not terror rendered tremulous
Dr Orkborne who was any thing rather than loquacious having given one answer said no more
Miss Margland appealed to all present upon the indecorum of a ladys being kept to witness such unbecoming violence and upon the unheardof inattention of the Doctor but a short Certainly— To be sure maam— or Its very shocking indeed with a hasty decampment from her neighbourhood was all of sympathy she procured
The entrance at length of the master of the house stopt the affray by calling off the waiter Clermont then though wishing to extirpate old Westwyn from the earth and ready to eat his own flesh with fury at the double disgrace he had endured affected a loud halloo as if he had been contending for his amusement and protesting Bob the waiter was a fine fellow went off with great apparent satisfaction
Now then at least sir cried Miss Margland imperiously to the Doctor who still ruminating upon the late contest kept his seat I suppose youll condescend to take care of me to the coach
These modern clothes are very much in the way said the Doctor gravely and give a bad effect to attitudes He rose however but not knowing what to take care of a lady to a coach meant stood resolutely still till she was forced in desperation to walk on alone He then slowly followed keeping many paces behind notwithstanding her continually looking back and when with a heavy sigh at her hard fate she got unassisted into the carriage where her young ladies were waiting he tranquilly mounted after her tolerably reconciled to the loss of his evening by some new annotations it had suggested for his work relative to the games of antiquity
CHAPTER X
A Youthful Effusion
Camilla now thought herself safe in harbour the storms all over the dangers all past and but a light gale or two wanting to make good her landing on the bosom of permanent repose This gale this propitious gale she thought ready to blow at her call for she deemed it no other than the breath of jealousy She had seen Edgar though he knew her to be protected follow her to the coach and she had seen by the light afforded from the lamps of the carriage that her safety from the crowd and tumult was not the sole object of his watchfulness since though that at the instant she turned round was obviously secure his countenance exhibited the strongest marks of disturbance The secret spring therefore she now thought that was to reunite them was in her own possession
All the counsels of Mrs Arlbery upon this subject occurred to her and imagining she had hitherto erred from a simple facility she rejoiced in the accident which had pointed her to a safer path and shewn her that in the present disordered state of the opinions of Edgar the only way to a lasting accommodation was to alarm his security by asserting her own independence
Her difficulty however was still considerable as to the means The severe punishment she had received and the self blame and penitence she had incurred from her experiment with Sir Sedley Clarendel all rendered too abortive by Edgars contempt of the object, determined her to suffer no hopes no feelings of her own to engross her ever more from weighing those of another The end therefore of her deliberation was to shew general gaiety without appropriate favour and to renew solicitude on his part by a displayed ease of mind on her own
Elated with this idea she determined upon every possible public exhibition by which she could execute it to the best advantage Mrs Berlinton had but to appear to secure the most fashionable persons at Southampton for her parties and soon renewed the same course of life she had lived at Tunbridge of seeing company either at home or abroad every day except when some accidental plan offered a scheme of more novelty
Upon all these occasions young Westwyn though wholly unsought and even unthought of by Camilla was instinctively and incautiously the most alert to second her plan he was her first partner when she danced her constant attendant when she walked and always in wait to converse with her when she was seated while not purposing to engage him she perceived not his fast growing regard and intending to be open to all alike observed not the thwarting effect to her design of this peculiar assiduity
By old Mr Westwyn this intercourse was yet more urgently forwarded Bewitched with Camilla he carried his son to her wherever she appeared and said aloud to everybody but herself If the boy and girl like one another, they shall have one another; and I wont inquire what shes worth for she thinks so well of my son that Id rather hed have her than an empress Money goes but a little way to make people happy and true loves not a thing to be got every day so if she has a mind to my Hal and Hal has a mind to her why if they have not enough he must work hard and get more I dont like to cross young people Better let a man labour with his hands than fret away his spirit Neither a boy nor a girl are good for much when theyve got their hearts broke
This new experiment of Camilla like every other deduced from false reasoning and formed upon false principles was flattering in its promise pernicious in its progress and abortive in its performance Edgar saw with agony what he conceived the ascendance of a new attachment built upon the declension of all regard for himself and in the first horror of his apprehensions would have resisted the supplanter by enforcing his own final claim but Dr Marchmont represented that since he had heard in silence his right to that claim solemnly withdrawn he had better first ascertain if this apparent connection with young Westwyn were the motive or only the consequence of that resumption If the first be the case he added you must trust her no more a heart so inflammable as to be kindled into passion by a mere accidental blaze of gallantry and valour can have nothing in consonance with the chaste purity and fidelity your character requires and merits If the last investigate whether the net in which she is entangling herself is that of levity delighting in change or of pique disguising its own agitation in efforts to agitate others
Alas cried the melancholy Edgar in either case she is no more the artless Camilla I first adored that fatal connection at the Grove formed while her character pure white and spotless was in its enchanting but dangerous state of first ductility has already broken into that clear transparent singleness of mind so beautiful in its total ignorance of every species of scheme every sort of double measure every idea of secret view and latent expedient
Repine not however at the connection till you know whether she owe to it her defects or only their manifestation A man should see the woman he would marry in many situations ere he can judge what chance he may have of happiness with her in any Though now and then tis a blessed tis always a perilous state but the man who has to weather its storms should not be remiss in studying the clouds which precede them
Ah Doctor by this delay by these experiments should I lose her
If by finding her unworthy where is the loss
Edgar sighed but acknowledged this question to be unanswerable
Think my dear young friend what would be your sufferings to discover any radical inherent failing when irremediably hers run not into the very common error of depending upon the gratitude of your wife after marriage for the inequality of her fortune before your union She who has no fortune at all owes you no more for your alliance than she who has thousands for you do not marry her because she has no fortune you marry her because you think she has some endowment mental or personal which you conclude will conduce to your happiness and she on her part accepts you because she supposes you or your situation will contribute to hers The object may be different but neither side is indebted to the other since each has self only in contemplation and thus in fact rich or poor high or low whatever be the previous distinction between the parties on the hour of marriage they begin as equals The obligation and the debt of gratitude can only commence when the knot is tied self then may give way to sympathy and whichever from that moment most considers the other becomes immediately the creditor in the great account of life and happiness
While Camilla in gay ignorance of danger and awake only to hope pursued her new course Eugenia had the infinite delight of improving daily and even hourly in the good graces of Mrs Berlinton who soon discovered how wide from justice to that excellent young creature was all judgment that could be formed from her appearance She found that she was as elegant in her taste for letters as herself and far more deeply cultivated in their knowledge that her manners were gentle her sentiments were elevated yet that her mind was humble the same authors delighted and the same passages struck them they met every morning they thought every morning too short and their friendship in a very few days knit by so many bands of sympathy was as fully established as that which already Mrs Berlinton had formed with Camilla
To Eugenia this treaty of amity was a delicious poison which while it enchanted her faculties by day preyed upon her vitals by night She frequently saw Melmond and though a melancholy bow was almost all the notice she ever obtained from him the countenance with which he made it his air his figure his face nay his very dress for the half instant he bestowed upon her occupied all her thoughts till she saw him again and had another to con over and dwell upon
Melmond inexpressibly wretched at the deprivation of all hope of Indiana at the very period when fortune seemed to favour his again pursuing her dreamt not of this partiality His time was devoted to deliberating upon some lucrative scheme of future life which his literary turn of mind rendered difficult of selection and which his refined love of study and retirement made hateful to him to undertake
He was kind however and even consoling to his aunt who saw his nearly desolate state with a compunction bitterly increased by finding she had thrown their joint properties with her own person into the hands of a rapacious tyrant To soften her repentance and allow her the soothing of all she could spare of her own time Mrs Berlinton invited her to her own house Mr Ulst of course included in the invitation made the removal with alacrity not for the pleasure it procured his wife but for the money it saved himself and Mrs Mittin voluntarily resigned to them the apartment she had chosen for her own by way of a little peaceoffering for her undesired length of stay for still though incessantly Camilla inquired for her account she had received no answer from the creditors and was obliged to wait for another and another post
Mrs Ulst though not well enough at present to see company and at all times fanatically averse to every species of recreation could not entirely avoid Eugenia whose visits were constant every morning and whose expected inheritance made a similar wish occur for her nephew with that which had disposed of her niece for she flattered herself that if once she could see them both in possession of great wealth her mind would be more at ease
She communicated this idea to Mr Ulst who most willing also to get rid of the reproach of the poverty and ruin of Melmond imparted it with strong exhortation for its promotion to the young man but he heard with disdain the mercenary project and protested he would daily labour for his bread in preference to prostituting his probity by soliciting a regard he could never return for the acquirement of a fortune which he never could merit
Mr Ulst much too hard to feel this as any reflection upon himself applied for the interest of Mrs Berlinton but she so completely thought with her brother that she would not interfere till Mr Ulst made some observations upon Eugenia herself that inclined her to waver
He soon remarked in that young and artless character the symptoms of the partiality she had conceived in favour of Melmond which when once pointed out could not be mistaken by Mrs Berlinton who though more than equally susceptible with Eugenia was selfoccupied and saw neither her emotion at his name nor her timid air at his approach till Mr Ulst whose discernment had been quickened by his wishes told her when and for what to look
Touched now herself by the double happiness that might ensue from a gratified choice to Eugenia and a noble fortune to her brother she took up the cause with delicacy yet with pity representing all the charming mental and intellectual accomplishments of Eugenia and beseeching him not to sacrifice both his interest and his peace in submitting to a hopeless passion for one object while he inflicted all its horrors upon another
Melmond amazed and softened listened and sighed but protested such a change from all of beauty to all of deformity was impracticable and that though he revered the character she painted and was sensible to the honour of such a preference he must be base double and perjured to take advantage of her great yet unaccountable goodness by heartless professions of feigned participation
Mrs Berlinton to whom sentiment was irresistible urged the matter no longer but wept over her brother with compassionate admiration
Another day only passed when Mrs Mittin picked up a paper upon the stairs which she saw fall from the pocket of Eugenia in drawing out her handkerchief but which determining to read ere she returned she found contained these lines
O Reason friend of the troubled breast guide of the wayward fancy moderator of the flights of hope and sinkings of despair Eugenia calls thee
O to a feeble suppliant Maid
Light of Reason, lend thy aid
And with thy mild thy lucid ray
Point her the way
To genial calm and mental joy
From Passion far whose flashes bright
Startle—affright—
Yet ah invite
With varying powers attract repel
Now fiercely beam
Now softly gleam
With magic spell
Charm to consume win to destroy
Ah lead her from the chequerd glare
So false so fair—
Ah quick from Passion bid her fly
Its sway repulse its wiles defy
And to a feeble suppliant heart
Thy aid O Reasons light impart
Next Eugenia point thy prayer
That He whom all thy wishes bless
Whom all thy tenderest thoughts confess
Thy calm may prove thy peace may share
O if the griefs to him assignd
To thee might pass—thy strengthened mind
Would meet all woe support all pain
Suffering despise complaint disdain
Bracd with new nerves each ill would brave
From Melmond but one pang to save
Overjoyed by the possession of the important secret this little juvenile effusion of tenderness betrayed Mrs Mittin ran with it to Mrs Berlinton and without mentioning she had seen whence the paper came said she had found it upon the stairs for even those who have too little delicacy to attribute to treachery a clandestine indulgence of curiosity have a certain instinctive sense of its unfairness which they evince without avowing by the care with which they soften their motives or their manner of according themselves this species of gratification
Mrs Berlinton who scrupulously would have withheld from looking into a letter could not see a copy of verses and recognise the hand of Eugenia already known to her by frequent notes and refrain reading That she should find any thing personal did not occur to her to peruse therefore a manuscript ode or sonnet which the humility of Eugenia might never voluntarily reveal caused her no hesitation and she ran through the lines with the warmest delight till coming suddenly upon the end she burst into tears and flew to the apartment of her brother
She put the paper into his hand without a word He read it hastily Surprised confounded disordered he looked at his sister for some explanation or comment she was still silently in tears he read it again and with yet greater emotion when holding it back to her Why my sister he cried why would she give you this why would you deliver it Ah leave me in pity firm in integrity though fallen in fortune
My brother my dear brother this matchless creature merits not so degrading an idea she gave me not the precious paper she knows not I possess it it was found upon the stairs Ah far from thus openly confessing her unhappy prepossession she conceals it from every human being even her beloved sister I am convinced is untrusted upon paper only she has breathed it and breathed it as you see with a generosity of soul that is equal to the delicacy of her conduct
Melmond now felt subdued To have excited such a regard in a mind that seemed so highly cultivated and so naturally elegant could not fail to touch him and the concluding line deeply penetrated him with tender though melancholy gratitude He took the hand of his sister returned her the paper and was going to say Do whatever you think proper but the idea of losing all right to adore Indiana checked and silenced him and mournfully telling her he required a little time for reflection he entreated to be left to himself
He was not suffered to ruminate in quiet Mrs Mittin proud of having any thing to communicate to a relation of Mrs Berlintons made an opportunity to sit with Mrs Ulst purposely to communicate to her the discovery that Miss Eugenia Tyrold was in love with and wrote verses upon her nephew Melmond was instantly sent for the important secret was enlarged upon with remonstrances so pathetic not to throw away such an invitation to the most brilliant good fortune in order to cast himself with his vainly nourished passion upon immediate hardships or lasting penury that reason as well as interest compelled him to listen and after a severe conflict he gave his reluctant promise to see Eugenia upon her next visit and endeavour to bias his mind to the connexion that seemed likely to ensue
Camilla who was in total ignorance of the whole of this business received during the dinner an incoherent note from her sister conjuring that she would search immediately but privately in her own chamber in the dressingroom of Mrs Berlinton in the hall and upon the stairs for a paper in her handwriting which she had somewhere lost but which she besought her by all that she held dear not to read when she found protesting she should shut herself up for ever from the whole world if a syllable of what she had written on that paper were read by a human being
Camilla could not endure to keep her sister a moment in this suspensive state and made an excuse for quitting the table that she might instantly seek the manuscript Melmond and Mrs Berlinton both conjectured the contents of the billet and felt much for the modest and timid Eugenia but Mrs Mittin could not confine herself to silent suggestion she rose also and running after Camilla said My dear Miss has your sister sent to you to look for any thing?'
Camilla asked the meaning of her inquiry and she then owned she had picked up from the stairs a sort of love letter in which Miss Eugenia had wrote couplets upon Mr Melmond
Inexpressibly astonished Camilla demanded their restoration this soon produced a complete explanation and while with equal surprise and concern she learnt the secret of Eugenia and its discovery to its object, she could not but respect and honour all she gathered from Mrs Berlinton of the behaviour of her brother upon the detection and his equal freedom from presumptuous vanity or mercenary projects induced her to believe her sisters choice though wholly new to her was well founded and that if he could conquer his early propensity for Indiana he seemed of all the characters she knew Edgar alone and always excepted the most peculiarly formed for the happiness of Eugenia
She begged to have the paper and entreated her sister might never know into whose hands it had fallen This was cheerfully agreed to but Mrs Mittin during the conference had already flown to Eugenia and amidst a torrent of offers of service and professions of power to do any thing she pleased for her suffered her to see that her attachment was betrayed to the whole house
The agony of Eugenia was excessive and she resolved to keep her chamber till she returned to Cleves that she might neither see nor be seen any more by Melmond nor his family Scarce could she bear to be broken in upon even by Camilla who tenderly hastened to console her She hid her blushing conscious face and protested she would inhabit only her own apartment for the rest of her life
The active Mrs Mittin failed not to carry back the history of this resolution and Melmond to his unspeakable regret in being thus precipitated thought himself called upon in all decency and propriety to an immediate declaration He could not however assume fortitude to make it in person nor yet was his mind sufficiently composed for writing he commissioned therefore his sister to be the bearer of his overtures
He charged her to make no mention of the verses which it was fitting should on his part pass unnoticed though she could not but be sensible his present address was their consequence he desired her simply to state his high reverence for her virtues and talents and his consciousness of the inadequacy of his pretensions to any claim upon them except what arose from the grateful integrity of esteem with which her happiness should become the first object of his future life if she forbade not his application for the consent of Sir Hugh and Mr Tyrold to solicit her favour
With respect to Indiana he begged her unless questioned to be wholly silent To say his flame for that adorable creature was extinguished would be utterly false but his peace as much as his honour would lead him to combat henceforth by all the means in his power his illfated and woeteeming passion
This commission was in perfect consonance with the feelings of Mrs Berlinton who though with difficulty she gained admission executed it with the most tender delicacy to the terrified Eugenia who amazed and trembling pale and incredulous so little understood what she heard so little was able to believe what she wished that when Mrs Berlinton with an affectionate embrace begged her answer she asked if it was not Indiana of whom she was speaking
Mrs Berlinton then thought it right to be explicit she acknowledged the early passion of her brother for that young lady but stated that long before he had ventured to think of herself he had determined its conquest and that what originally was the prudence of compulsion was now from his altered prospects in life become choice And believe me added she from my long and complete knowledge of the honour and the delicacy of his opinion as well as of the tenderness and gratitude of his nature the woman who shall once receive his vows will find his life devoted to the study of her happiness
Eugenia flew into her arms hung upon her bosom wept blushed smiled and sighed alternately one moment wished Indiana in possession of her fortune the next thought she herself in all but beauty more formed for his felicity and ultimately gave her tacit but transported consent to the application
Melmond upon receiving it heaved what he fondly hoped would be his last sigh for Indiana and ordering his horse set off immediately for Cleves and Etherington determined frankly to state his small income and crushed expectations and feeling almost equally indifferent to acceptance or rejection
Camilla devoted the afternoon to her agitated but enraptured sister who desired her secret might spread no further till the will of her father and uncle should decide its fate but the loquacious Mrs Mittin having some cheap ribands and fine edgings to recommend to Miss Margland and Indiana could by no means refrain from informing them at the same time of the discovered manuscript
Poor thing cried Indiana I really pity her I dont think imperceptibly gliding towards the glass I dont think by what I have seen of Mr Melmond she has much chance Ive a notion hes rather more difficult
Really this is what I always expected said Miss Margland Its just exactly what one might look for from one of your learned educations which I always despised with all my heart Writing love verses at fifteen Dr Orkbornes made a fine hand of her I always hated him from the very first However Ive had nothing to do with the bringing her up thats my consolation I thank Heaven I never made a verse in my life and I never intend it
CHAPTER XI
The Computations of Self-Love
Camilla left her sister to accompany Mrs Berlinton to the Rooms no other mode remaining for seeing Edgar who since her rejection had held back from repeating his attempt of visiting Mrs Berlinton
In mutual solicitude mutual watchfulness and mutual trials of each others hearts and esteem a week had already passed without one hope being extirpated or one doubt allayed This evening was somewhat more though less pleasantly decisive
Accident want of due consideration and sudden recollection in an agitated moment of the worldly doctrine of Mrs Arlbery had led Camilla once more into the semblance of a character which without thinking of she was acting Born simple and ingenuous and bred to hold in horror every species of art all idea of coquetry was foreign to her meaning though an untoward contrariety of circumstances playing upon feelings too potent for deliberations had eluded her into a conduct as mischievous in its effects and as wide from artlessness in its appearance as if she had been brought up and nourished in fashionable egotism
Such however was not Camilla her every propensity was pure and when reflection came to her aid her conduct was as exemplary as her wishes But the ardour of her imagination acted upon by every passing idea shook her Judgment from its yet unsteady seat and left her at the mercy of wayward Sensibility—that delicate but irregular power which now impels to all that is most disinterested for others now forgets all mankind to watch the pulsations of its own fancies
This evening brought her back to recollection—Young Westwyn urged by what he deemed encouragement and prompted by his impatient father spoke of his intended visit to Cleves and introduction to Sir Hugh in terms of such animated pleasure and with a manner of such open admiration that she could not mistake the serious purposes which he meant to imply
Alarmed she looked at him but the expression of his eyes was not such as to still her suspicions Frightened at what now she first observed she turned from him gravely meaning to avoid conversing with him the rest of the evening but her caution came too late her first civilities had flattered both him and his father into a belief of her favour and this sudden drawback he imputed only to virgin modesty which but added to the fervour of his devoirs
Camilla now perceived her own error the perseverance of young Westwyn not merely startled but appalled her His character unassuming though spirited was marked by a general decency and propriety of demeanour that would not presumptuously brave distancing and awakened her therefore to a review of her own conduct as it related or as it might seem to himself
And here not all the guiltlessness of her intentions could exonerate her from blame with that finely scrutinizing monitor to which Heaven in pity to those evil propensities that law cannot touch nor society reclaim has devolved its earthly jurisdiction in the human breast With her hopes she could play with her wishes she could trifle her intentions she could defend her designs she could relinquish—but with her conscience she could not combat It pointed beyond the present moment it took her back to her imprudence with Sir Sedley Clarendel which should have taught her more circumspection and it carried her on to the disappointment of Henry and his father whom while heedlessly she had won though without the most remote view to beguile she might seem artfully to have caught for the wanton vanity of rejecting
While advice and retrospection were thus alike oppressive in accusation her pensive air and withdrawn smiles proved but more endearing to young Westwyn whose internal interpretation was so little adapted to render them formidable that his assiduities were but more tender and allowed her no repose
Edgar who with the most suffering suspense observed her unusual seriousness and its effect upon Henry drew from it with the customary ingenuity of sensitive minds to torment themselves the same inference for his causeless torture as proved to his rival a delusive blessing But while thus he contemplated Henry as the most to be envied of mortals a new scene called forth new surprise and gave birth to yet new doubts in his mind He saw Camilla not merely turn wholly away from his rival but enter into conversation and give apparently her whole attention to Lord Valhurst who it was palpable only spoke to her of her charms which alternately with those of Mrs Berlinton he devoted his whole time to worshipping
Camilla by this action meant simply to take the quickest road she saw in her power to shew young Westwyn his mistake Lord Valhurst she held nearly in aversion for though his vindication of his upright motives at the bathinghouse joined to her indifference in considering him either guilty or innocent made her conclude he might be blameless in that transaction his perpetual compliments enforced by staring eyes and tender glances wearied and disgusted her But he was always by her side when not in the same position with Mrs Berlinton and while his readiness to engage her made this her easiest expedient his time of life persuaded her it was the safest Little aware of the effect this produced upon Edgar she imagined he would not more notice her in any conversation with Lord Valhurst than if she were discoursing with her uncle
But while she judged from the sincerity of reality she thought not of the mischief of appearance What in her was designed with innocence was rendered suspicious to the observers by the looks and manner of her companion The pleasure with which he found at last that incense received which hitherto had been slighted gave new zest to an adulation which while Camilla endured merely to shew her coldness to young Westwyn seemed to Edgar to be offered with a gross presumption of welcome that must result from an opinion it was addressed to a confirmed coquette
Offended in his inmost soul by this idea he scarce desired to know if she were now stimulated most by a wish to torment Henry or himself or only by the general pleasure she found in this new mode of amusement Be it cried he to Dr Marchmont as it may with me all is equally over I seek not to recall an attachment liable to such intermissions such commotions What would be my peace my tranquillity with a companion so unstable A mind all at large in its pursuits—a dissipated wife—No—I will remain here but to let her know I acquiesce in her dismission and to learn in what form she has communicated our breach to her friends
Dr Marchmont was silent and they walked out of the room together leaving the deceived Camilla persuaded he was so indifferent with regard to the old peer that all her influence was lost and all her late exertions were thrown away by one evenings remissness in exciting his fears of a young rival
Melmond returned to Southampton the next morning with an air of deep and settled melancholy He had found the two brothers together and the candour of his appearance the plainness of his declaration the openness with which he stated his situation and his near relationship to Mrs Berlinton procured him a courteous hearing and he soon saw that both the father and the uncle though they desired time for consideration and inquiry were disposed to favour him Mr Tyrold though to his acknowledged recent disappointment of fortune he attributed his address had so little hope that any man at once amiable and rich would present himself to his unfortunate Eugenia that when he saw a gentleman well educated well allied of pleasing manners and with every external promise of a good and feeling character modestly and with no professions but of esteem and respect seek her of her friends he thought himself not even entitled to refuse him He told him however that he could conclude upon nothing in a matter of such equal interest to himself and his wife without her knowledge and concurrence and that during the time he demanded before he gave a final answer he required a forbearance of all intercourse beyond that of a common acquaintance His first design was immediately to send for Eugenia home but the young man appeared so reasonable so mild so unlike a fortunehunter that constitutionally indulgent where he apprehended nothing criminal he contented himself with writing to the same effect to Eugenia fully satisfied of her scrupulous punctuality when once his will was known
Melmond though thus well received returned back to Southampton with any air rather than that of a bridegroom The order not to wait upon Eugenia in private was the only part of his task he performed with satisfaction for though a mind really virtuous made him wish to conquer his repugnance to his future partner he felt it could not be by comparing her with Indiana
Eugenia received the letter of her father written in his own and her uncles name with transport and to testify her grateful obedience resolved to name the impending transaction to no one and even to relinquish her visits to Mrs Berlinton and only to see Melmond when accident brought him before her in public
But Mrs Mittin through words casually dropt or conversations not very delicately overheard soon gathered the particulars of her situation which happily furnished her with a new subject for a gossiping visit to Miss Margland and Indiana The first of these ladies received the news with unconcern rather pleased than otherwise that the temptation of an heiress should be removed from any rivalry with the charms of her fair pupil who by no means however listened to the account with equal indifference The sight of Melmond at Southampton with the circumstance of his being brother to the Honourable Mrs Berlinton had awakened all the pleasure with which she had first met his impassioned admiration and while she haughtily expected from every public exhibition to bring home hearts by dozens the secret point she had in view was shewing Melmond that her power over others was as mighty as it had been over himself She had not taken the trouble to ask with what end what was passed never afforded her an observation what was to come never called forth an idea Occupied only by the present moment things gone remained upon her memory but as matters of fact, and all her expectations she looked forward to but as matters of course To lose therefore a conquest she had thought the victim of her beauty for life was a surprise nearly incredible to lose him to Eugenia an affront scarcely supportable and she waited but an opportunity to kill him with her disdain But Melmond who dreaded nothing so much as an interview availed himself of the commands of Mr Tyrold in not going to the lodgings of Eugenia and lived absorbed in a melancholy retirement which books alone could a little alleviate
The conclusion of the letter of Mr Tyrold gave to Camilla as much pain as every other part of it gave to Eugenia pleasure it was an earnest and parentally tender prayer that the alliance with Melmond should his worth appear such as to authorise its taking place might prove the counterpart to the happiness so sweetly promised from that of her sister with Edgar
While Camilla sighed to consider how wide from the certainty with which he mentioned it was such an event she blushed that he should thus be uninformed of her insecurity but while a reconciliation was not more her hope than her expectation with every rising sun she could not endure to break his repose with the knowledge of a suspense she thought as disgraceful as it was unhappy Yet her present scheme to accelerate its termination became difficult even of trial
The obviously serious regard of Henry was a continual reproach to her and the undisguised approbation of his father was equally painful Yet she could now only escape them by turning to some other and that other was necessarily Lord Valhurst whose close siege to her notice forced off every assailant but himself This the deluded Camilla thought an expedient the most innoxious and gave to him so much of her time that his susceptibility to the charms of youth and beauty was put to a trial beyond his fortitude and in a very few days notwithstanding their disproportion in age his embarrassed though large estates and the little or no fortune which she had in view he determined to marry her for when a man of rank and riches resolves to propose himself to a woman who has neither he conceives his acceptance not a matter of doubt
In any other society his admiration of Camilla might easily like what he had already experienced and forgotten for thousands of her sex have escaped so grave or decided a tendency but in Mrs Berlinton he saw so much of youth and beauty bestowed upon a man whom he knew to be his own senior in age that the idea of a handsome young wife was perpetually present to him He weighed like all people who seek to entice themselves to their own wishes but one side of the question and risked like all who succeed in such selfseduction the inconvenience of finding out the other side too late He saw the attractions of his fair kinswoman but neglected to consider of how little avail they were to her husband he thought with exultation of that husbands age and almost childishness but forgot to take into the scales that they had obtained from his youthful choice only disgust and avoidance
While he waited for some trinkets which he had ordered from town to have ready for presenting with his proposals Edgar only sought an opportunity and courage to take his last farewell Whenever Camilla was so much engaged with others that it was impossible to approach her he thought himself capable of uttering an eternal adieu but when by any opening he saw where and how he might address her his feet refused to move his tongue became parched and his pleading heart seemed exclaiming O not tonight yet yet another day ere Camilla is parted with for ever
But suddenly soon after Camilla ceased to appear At the rooms at the plays at the balls and at the private assemblies Edgar looked for her in vain Her old adulator also vanished from public places while her young admirer and his father hovered about in them as usual but spiritless comfortless and as if in the same search as himself
CHAPTER XII
Juvenile Calculations
Mrs Norfield a lady whom circumstances had brought into some intimacy with Mrs Berlinton upon her marriage had endeavoured from the first of her entrance into high life to draw her into a love of play not with an idea of doing her any mischief for she was no more her enemy than her friend but to answer her own purposes of having a Faro table under her own direction She was a woman of fashion and as such everywhere received but her fortune was small and her passion for gaming inordinate and as there was not at this time one Faro table at Southampton whither she was ordered for her health she was almost wearied into a lethargy till her reiterated intreaties prevailed at length with Mrs Berlinton to hold one at her own house
The fatigue of life without view the peril of talents without prudence and the satiety of pleasure without intermission were already dangerously assaulting the early independence and the moment of vacancy and weariness was seized by Mrs Norfield to press the essay of a new mode of amusement
Mrs Berlintons house opened failed not to be filled and opened for a Faro table to be filled with a peculiar set To game has unfortunately always its attractions to game with a perfect novice is not what will render it less alluring and to see that novice rich and beautiful is still less likely to be repelling
Mr Berlinton when he made this marriage supposed he had engaged for life a fair nurse to his infirmities but when he saw her fixed aversion he had not spirit to cope with it and when she had always an excuse for a separation he had not the sense to acquaint himself how she passed her time in his absence A natural imbecility of mind was now nearly verging upon dotage and as he rarely quitted his room but at meal times she made a point never to see him in any other part of the day Her antipathy rendered her obdurate though her disposition was gentle and she had now left him at Tunbridge to meet her aunt at Southampton with a knowledge he was too ill to follow her and a determination upon various pretences to stay away from him for some months The ill fate of such unequal alliances is almost daily exemplified in life and though few young brides of old bridegrooms fly their mates thus openly and decidedly their retainers have seldom much cause to rejoice in superior happiness since they are generally regarded but as the gaolers of their young prey
Moderation was the last praise to which Mrs Berlinton had any claim what she entered upon through persecution in an interval of mental supineness she was soon awake to as a pleasure and next pursued as a passion Her beloved correspondent was neglected her favourite authors were set aside her country rambles were given up balls and the rooms were forgotten and Faro alone engrossed her faculties by day and her dreams during the short epoch she reserved for sleep at night She lost as might be expected as constantly as she played but as money was not what she naturally valued she disdained to weigh that circumstance and so long as she had any to pay resigned it with more grace than by others it was won
That Camilla was not caught by this ruinous fascination was not simply the effect of necessity Had the state of her finances been as flourishing as it was decayed she would have been equally steady in this forbearance her reason was fair though her feelings frequently chased it from the field She looked on therefore with safety though not wholly with indifference she had too much fancy not to be amused by the spirit of the business and was too animated not to take part in the successive hopes and fears of the several competitors but though her quick sensations prompted a readiness like that of Mrs Berlinton to enter warmly into all that was presented to her the resemblance went no further what she was once convinced was wrong she was incapable of practising
Upon Gaming the first feeling and the latest reflection are commonly one both point its hazards to be unnecessary its purposes rapacious and its end desperate loss or destructive gain she not only therefore held back she took the liberty upon the privilege of their avowed friendship to remonstrate against this dangerous pastime with Mrs Berlinton But that lady though eminently designed to be amiable had now contracted the fearful habit of giving way to every propensity and finding her native notions of happiness were blighted in the bud concluded that all which now remained for her was the indulgence of every luxury She heard with sweetness the expostulation of her young friend but she pursued her own course
In a very few days however while the blush of shame dyed her beautiful cheeks she inquired if Camilla could lend her a little ready money
A blush of no less unpleasant feelings overspread the face of her fair guest in being compelled to own she had none to lend but she eagerly promised to procure some from Mrs Mittin who had a note in her hand to exchange for the payment of some small debts contracted at Tunbridge Mrs Berlinton gathering from her confusion how ill she was stored would not hear of applying to this resource though I hate she cried to be indebted to that odious old cousin of whom I was obliged to borrow last night
Glaring imprudence in others is a lesson even to the most unthinking Camilla when she found that Mrs Berlinton had lost every guinea she could command ventured to renew still more forcibly her exhortations against the Faro table but Mrs Berlinton notwithstanding she possessed an excellent capacity was so little fortified with any practical tenets either of religion or morality that where sentiment did not take the part of what was right she had no preservative against what was wrong The Faro table therefore was still opened and Lord Valhurst by the sums he lent obtained every privilege of intimacy in the family except that of being welcome
Against this perilous mode of proceeding Camilla was not the only warner Mrs Ulst saw with extreme repugnance the mode of life her niece was pursuing and reprimanded her with severe reproach but her influence was now lost and Mrs Berlinton though she kindly attended her and sought to alleviate her sufferings acted as if she were not in existence
It was now Mrs Mittin gained the highest point of her ambition Mrs Berlinton tired of remonstrances she could not controvert and would not observe was extremely relieved by finding a person who would sit with her aunt comply with her humours hear her lamentations subscribe to her opinions and beguile her of her rigid fretfulness by the amusement of gossiping anecdotes
Mrs Mittin had begun life as the apprentice to a small country milliner but had rendered herself so useful to a sick elderly gentlewoman who lodged in the house that she left her a legacy which by sinking into an annuity enabled her to quit her business and set up in her own conception for a gentlewoman herself though with so very small an income that to sustain her new post she was frequently reduced to far greater dependence and hardships than she experienced in her old one She was goodhumoured yet laborious gay yet subservient poor yet dissipated To be useful she would submit to any drudgery to become agreeable devoted herself to any flattery To please was her incessant desire and her rage for popularity included every rank and class of society The more eminent of course were her first objects but the same aim descended to the lowest She would work read go of errands or cook a dinner be a parasite a spy an attendant a drudge keep a secret or spread a report incite a quarrel or coax contending parties into peace invent any expedient and execute any scheme all with the pretext to oblige others but all in fact for simple egotism as prevalent in her mind as in that of the more highly ambitious though meaner and less dangerous
Camilla was much relieved when she found this officious person was no longer retained solely upon her account but still she could neither obtain her bills no answers ever arriving nor the money for her twenty pound note Mrs Mittin always evading to deliver it and asserting she was sure somebody would come in the stage the next day for the payment she had promised and when Camilla wanted cash for any of the very few articles she now allowed herself to think indispensable instead of restoring it into her hands she flew out herself to purchase the goods that were required and always brought them home with assurances they were cheaper than the shopkeepers would let her have them for herself
Camilla resisted all incitements to new dress and new ornaments with a fortitude which must not be judged by the aged nor the retired who weighing only the frivolity of what she withstood are not qualified to appreciate the merit of this sort of resignation the young the gay the new in life who know that amongst minor calamities none are more alarming to the juvenile breast than the fear of not appearing initiated in the reigning modes can alone do justice to the present philosophy of Camilla in seeing that all she wore by the quick changes of fashion seemed already out of date in refusing to look at the perpetual diversity of apparel daily brought by various dress modellers for the approbation of Mrs Berlinton and in seeing that lady always newly brightly and in a distinguished manner attired yet appearing by her side in exactly the same array that she had constantly worn at Tunbridge Nor was Camilla indifferent to this contrast but she submitted to it as the duty of her present involved situation which exacted from her every privation in preference to bestowing upon any new expence the only sum she could command towards clearing what was past
But after a very short time the little wardrobe exhibited a worse quality than that of not keeping pace with the last devices of the ton it lost not merely its newness but its delicacy Alas thought she how long in the careful and rare wear of Etherington and Cleves all this would have served me while here in this daily use a fortnight is scarce passed yet all is spoilt and destroyed Ah public places are only for the rich
Now therefore Mrs Mittin was of serious utility she failed not to observe the declining state of her attire and though she wondered at the parsimony which so resolutely prohibited all orders for its renewal in a young lady she considered as so great an heiress she was yet proud to display her various powers of proving serviceable She turned changed rubbed cleaned and new made up all the several articles of which her dress was composed to so much advantage and with such striking effect that for yet a few days more all seemed renewed and by the arts of some few alterations her appearance was rather more than less fashionable than upon her first arrival
But this could not last long and when all again was fading into a state of decay Mrs Berlinton received an invitation for herself and her fair guest to a great ball and supper given upon the occasion of a young noblemans coming of age in which all the dancers by agreement were to be habited in uniform
This uniform was to be clear fine lawn with lilac plumes and ornaments
Camilla had now with consuming regret passed several days without one sight of Edgar This invitation therefore which was general to all the company at Southampton was in its first sound delicious but became upon consideration the reverse Clear lawn and lilac plumes and ornaments she had none how to go she knew not yet Edgar she was sure would be there how to stay away she knew less
This was a severe moment to her courage she felt it faltering and putting down the card of invitation without the force of desiring Mrs Berlinton to make her excuse repaired to her own room terrified by the preponderance of her wishes to a consent which she knew her situation rendered unwarrantable
There however though she gained time for reflection she gathered not the resolution she sought The stay at Southampton by the desire of Lynmere had been lengthened yet only a week now remained before she must return to her father and her uncle but how return separated from Edgar Edgar whom she still believed she had only to see again in some more auspicious moment to reconquer and fix for life But when and where might that auspicious moment be looked for not at Mrs Berlintons there he no more attempted to visit not at the Rooms those now were decidedly relinquished and all general invitations were inadequate to draw Mrs Berlinton from her new pursuit where then was this happy explanation to pass
When our wishes can only be gratified with difficulty we conclude in the ardour of combating their obstacle that to lose them is to lose everything to obtain them is to ensure all good At this ball and this supper Camilla painted Edgar completely restored to her she was certain he would dance with her she was sure he would sit by no one else during the repast the many days since they had met would endear to him every moment they could now spend together and her active imagination soon worked up scenes so important from this evening that she next persuaded her belief that all chance of reconciliation hung wholly upon the meeting it offered
Impelled by this notion yet wavering dissatisfied and uncomfortable she summoned Mrs Mittin and entreated she would make such inquiries concerning the value of the balldress uniform as would enable her to estimate its entire expence
Her hours passed now in extreme disquietude for while all her hopes centred in the approaching festival the estimate which was to determine her power of enjoying it was by no means easy to procure Mrs Mittin though an adept in such matters took more pleasure in the parade than in the performance of her task and always answered to her inquiries that it was impossible to speak so soon that she must go to such another shop first that she must consult with such and such a person and that she must consider over more closely the orders given by Mrs Berlinton which were to be her direction though with the stipulation of having materials much cheaper and more common
At length however she burst into her room one morning before she was dressed saying Now my dear miss I hope I shall make you happy and displayed upon the bed a beautiful piece of fine lawn
Camilla examined and admired it asked what it was a yard and how much would suffice for the dress
Why my dear Ill answer for it theres enough for three whole dresses why its a whole piece and I dare say I can get a handkerchief and an apron out of it into the bargain
But I want neither handkerchief nor apron nor three dresses Mrs Mittin I shall take the smallest quantity that is possible if I take any at all
Mrs Mittin said that the man would not cut it and she must take the whole or none
Camilla was amazed she could so far have misunderstood her as to bring it upon such terms and begged she would carry it back
Nay if you dont take this my dear theres nothing in the shops that comes near it for less than fifteen shillings ayard Mrs Berlinton gives eighteen for hers and it dont look one bit to choose and this if you take it all together you may have for ten for all its width for theres 30 yards and the piece comes to but fifteen pound
Camilla protested she would not at this time pay ten shillings ayard for any gown in the world
Mrs Mittin who had flattered herself that the handkerchief and apron at least if not one of the gowns would have fallen to her share was much discomposed by this unexpected declaration and disappointed murmuring and conceiving her the most avaricious of mortals was forced away leaving Camilla in complete despondence of any power to effect her wish with propriety
Mrs Mittin came back late and with a look of dismay the man of whom she had had the muslin who was a traveller whom she had met at a friends had not waited her return and as she had left the fifteen pounds with him for a pledge of the security of his goods she supposed he had made off to get rid of the whole piece at once
Camilla felt petrified No possible pleasure or desire could urge her deliberately to what she deemed an extravagance yet here in one moment she was despoiled of three parts of all she possessed either for her own use or towards the restitution of her just debts with others
Observing her distress though with more displeasure than pity from believing it founded in the most extraordinary covetousness Mrs Mittin proposed measuring the piece in three and disposing of the two gowns she did not want to Mrs Berlinton or her sister and Miss Lynmere
Camilla was a little revived but the respite of difficulty was short upon opening the piece it was found damaged and after the first few yards which Mrs Mittin had sedulously examined not a breadth had escaped some rent fray or mischief
The ill being now irremediable to make up the dress in the cheapest manner possible was the only consolation that remained Mrs Mittin knew a mantuamaker who to oblige her would undertake this for a very small payment and she promised to procure everything else that was necessary for the merest trifle
Determined however to risk nothing more in such hands she now positively demanded that the residue of the note should be restored to her own keeping Mrs Mittin though much affronted honestly refunded the five pounds The little articles she had occasionally brought were still unpaid for but her passion for detaining the money was merely with a view to give herself consequence in boasting how and by whom she was trusted and now and then drawing out her purse before those who had less to produce but wholly without any design of imposition or fraud all she could obtain by hints and address she conceived to be fair booty but further she went not even in thought
Three days now only remained before this eventpromising ball was to take place and within three after it the Southampton expedition was to close Camilla scarce breathed from impatience for the important moment which was preceded by an invitation to all the company to take a sail on the Southampton water on the morning of the entertainment
END OF THE FOURTH VOLUME
VOLUME V
BOOK IX
CHAPTER I
A Water Party
The ball dress of Camilla was not yet ready when she set out for the amusement of the morning Melmond upon this occasion was forced into the excursion his sister represented so pathetically the ungrateful illbreeding of sequestering himself from a company of which it must so publicly be judged Eugenia would make one with the impossibility of for ever escaping the sight of Indiana that he could not in common decency any longer postpone the double meeting he almost equally dreaded
And this with all that could aggravate its misery from seeing the two objects together immediately occurred Sir Hugh Tyrolds coach containing Miss Margland Indiana Eugenia and Dr Orkborne was arrived just before that of Mrs Berlinton and the morning being very fine they had just alighted to join the company assembling upon the beach for the expedition Miss Margland still continued to exact the attendance of the Doctor though his wry looks and sluggish pace always proclaimed his ill will to the task But Clermont the only proper beau for her parties was completely unattainable He had connected himself with young Halder and his associates from whom while he received instructions relative to the stables and the dogkennels he returned with suitable edification lessons on the culinary art
Melmond deeply distressed besought his sister not to alight till the last moment She pitied him too sincerely not to comply and in a very short time she had herself an aggregate of almost all the gentlemen on the beach before the coach
Among these the first to press forward were the two Westwyns each enraptured to again see Camilla and the most successful in obtaining notice was Lord Valhurst with whom Camilla still thought it prudent however irksome to discourse rather than receive again the assiduities of Henry but her mind far from them all was hovering on the edge of the shore where Edgar was walking
Edgar for some time past had joined the utmost uneasiness what conduct to pursue with regard to the friends of Camilla to the heartrending decision of parting from her for ever He soon learnt the new and dangerous manner in which Mrs Berlinton spent her evenings and the idea that most naturally occurred to him was imparting it to Mr Tyrold But in what way could he address that gentleman without first knowing if Camilla had acquainted him with the step she had taken He felt too strongly the severe blow it would prove not to wish softening it with every palliation and while these still lingering feelings awed his proceedings his servant learnt from Molly Mill that Melmond had been favourably received at Cleves as a suitor to Eugenia Finding so near an alliance likely to take place with the brother he gave up his plan of remonstrating against the sister except in private counsel to Camilla for which and for uttering his fearful adieu he was now waiting but to speak to her unobserved
Still however with pain unabating he saw the eager approach to her of Henry with disgust that of Lord Valhurst and with alarm the general herd
Lord Pervil the young nobleman who deemed it worth while to be at the expence of several hundred pounds in order to let the world know how old he was now with his mother a widow lady and some other relations came down in a superb new equipage to the waterside Mrs Berlinton could not be so singular as not to join in the general crowd that flocked around them with congratulations and all parties in a few minutes were assembled on one spot
Edgar when he had spoken to the group to which the honours of the day belonged made up to Camilla gravely enquired after her health and then placed himself as near to her as he was able in the hope of conferring with her when the company began to move
Her spirits now rose and her prospects reopened to their wished termination All her regret was for Henry who saw her present avoidance and bemoaned her long absence with a sadness that reproached and afflicted her
A very fine yacht and three large pleasureboats were in readiness for this company surrounded by various other vessels of all sorts and conditions which were filled with miscellaneous parties who meant to partake the same gales for their own diversion or curiosity The invited set was now summoned to the water Lord Pervil and his relations leading the way by a small boat to the yacht to which Mrs Berlinton and the Cleves party were particularly selected guests
Camilla depending upon the assistance of Edgar in passing through the boat to the yacht so obviously turned from Henry that he lost all courage for persevering in addressing her and was even though most unwillingly retiring from a vicinity in which he seemed palpably obtrusive had not his father insisted upon detaining him whispering Be of good heart Hal the girl will come round yet
Edgar kept equally near her with a design that was the counterpart of her own wish of offering her his hand when it was her turn to enter the boat but they were both disappointed the Peer not waiting that rotation presented her his arm as soon as Lady Pervil had led the way There was no redress though Camilla was as much provoked as either of the young rivals
Lord Valhurst did not long exult in his victory the unsteadiness of the boat made him rather want help for himself than find force to bestow it upon another and upon mounting at the helm to pass her on to the yacht he tottered his foot slipt and he must have sunk between the two vessels had not a waterman caught him up and dragged him into the yacht with no further misfortune than a bruised shin wet legs and feet and a deplorably rueful countenance from mingled fright and mortification
Edgar not wholly unsuspicious such an accident might happen was darting into the boat to snatch Camilla from its participation when he felt himself forcibly pulled back and saw at the same moment Henry who had also started forward but whom nothing had retarded anticipate his purpose and aid her into the yacht
Looking round to see by what or by whom he had so unaccountably been stopt he perceived old Mr Westwyn his forefinger upon his nose in sign of silence and secrecy grasping him by the coat
What is the humour of this Sir cried he indignantly
Mr Westwyn still making his token for discretion and bending forward to speak in his ear said Do theres a good soul let my boy help that young lady Hal will be much obliged to you I can tell you and hes a very good lad
The nature of Edgar was too candid to suffer his wrath to resist a request so simple in sincerity but deeply he sighed to find by its implication that the passion of Henry was thus still fed with hopes
The passing of other ladies with their esquires prevented him who had no lady he wished to conduct from making his way yet into the yacht and the honest old gentleman detained by the same reason entered promptly into the history of the present situation of his son with regard to Camilla relating frankly that he thought her the sweetest girl in the world except that she did not know her own mind for she had been so pleased with his son first of all that he really thought he should oblige her by making it a match which I could not added he have the heart to refuse to a girl that gave the boy such a good character Youd be surprised to know how she took to him you may be proud says she to me you may be proud of your son which is what I shall never forget for though I loved Hal just the same before I never could tell but what it was only because he was my own And Im so afraid of behaving like a blind old goose that I often snub Hal when hes no more to blame than I am myself for fear of his getting out of my hands and behaving like a certain young man he has been brought up with and who I assure you deserves to have his ears cropt ten times a day for one piece of impudence or other I should not have been sorry if hed fallen into the water along with that old lord whom I dont wish much good to neither for between friends it seems to me that its he that has put her out of conceit with my poor Hal for all of a sudden nobody can tell why nor wherefore she takes it into her head theres nothing else worth listening to but just his old compliments And my poor Hal after thinking she had such a kindness for him that he had nothing to do but put on his best coat—for I told him Id have none of his newfangled modes of affronting my worthy old friend by doing to him like a postillion with a cropt head and half a coat—after thinking hed only to ask his consent for hed got mine without ever a word all at once without the least quarrel or either I or Hal giving her the least offence she wont so much as let him speak to her but turns off to that old fellow that tumbled into the water there and had near made her slip in after if it had not been for my sons stopping her which I shant forget your kindness in letting him do but whats more she wont speak to me neither though all I want is to ask her the reason of her behaviour which I shall certainly do if I can catch her any five minutes away from that lord for youll never believe what good friends we were before she took so to him We three that is she and I and Hal used to speak to nobody else scarce Poor Hal thought hed got it all his own way And I cant but own I thought as much myself for there was no knowing shed hold herself so above us all at once I assure you if we dont bring her to it will go pretty hard with us for I like her just as well as Hal does Id have made over to them the best half of my income immediately
Edgar had never yet felt such serious displeasure against Camilla as seized him upon this artless narrative To have trifled thus and as he believed most wantonly with the feelings and peace of two amiable persons whether from the vanity of making a new conquest or the tyranny of persecuting an old one shewed a love of power the most unjustifiable and a levity the most unpardonable And when he considered himself as exactly in the same suspensive embarrassment as a young man of little more than a fortnights acquaintance he felt indignantly ashamed of so humiliating a rivalry and a strong diminution of regret at his present purpose
Melmond meanwhile pressed by his sister seconded by his own sense of propriety had forced himself to the Cleves party and after bowing civilly to Miss Margland who courteously smiled upon one who she imagined would become master of Cleves and most profoundly to Indiana who coloured but deigned not the smallest salutation in return offered his hand to Eugenia but with a mind so absorbed and steps so uncertain that he was unable to afford her any assistance and her lameness and helplessness made her so much require it that she was in danger of falling every moment yet she felt in Paradise she thought him but enfeebled as she was enfeebled herself by a tender sensibility and danger therefore was not merely braved it was dear it was precious to her
Indiana now consoled her mortification with the solace of believing a retaliation at hand that would overcome the otherwise indelible disgrace of being superseded by Eugenia in a conquest Full of her own little scheme she imperiously refused all offers of aid and walked on alone till crossing the boat she gave a shriek at every step made hazardous by her wilful rejection of assistance and acted over again the charm of terror of which she well recollected the power upon a former occasion
These were sounds to vibrate but too surely to the heart of Melmond he turned involuntarily to look at her her beauty had all its original enchantment and he snatched away his eyes He led on her whom still less he durst view but another glance thus surprised from him shewed Indiana unguarded unprotected his imagination painted her immediately in a watery grave and seeing Eugenia safe though not accommodated he rushed back to the boat and with trembling respect implored her to accept his aid
Triumphant now she conceived herself in her turn and looking at him with haughty disdain said she chose to go alone and when again he conjured her not to risk her precious safety added You know you dont care about it so pray go to your Miss Eugenia Tyrold
Young Melmond delicate refined and well bred was precisely amongst the first to feel that a reply such as this must be classed amongst the reverse of those three epithets—had it come from any mouth but that of Indiana—but love is deaf as well as blind to every defect of its chosen object during the season of passion from her therefore this answer leaving unobserved the littleness and spleen which composed it retained but so much of meaning as belongs to announcing jealousy and in giving him that idea filled him with sensations that almost tore him asunder
Urged by her pique she contrived and with real risk to jump into the yacht alone though if swayed by any less potent motive she would sooner have remained in the boat the whole day But what is the strength which may be put upon a par with inclination and what the general courage that partial enterprise will not exceed
Melmond who only to some amiable cause could attribute whatever flowed from so beautiful an object, having once started the idea of jealousy could give its source only to love the impure spring of envy entered not into his suggestions What then was his distraction to think himself so greatly miserable to believe he was secretly favoured by Indiana at the instant of his first devoirs to another Duty and desire were equally urgent to be heard he shrunk in utter despondence from the two objects that seemed to personify both and retreated to the utmost of his power from the sight of either
Miss Margland had more than echoed every scream of Indiana though nobody had seemed to hear her Dr Orkborne the only beau she could compel into her service was missing her eye and voice alike every where demanded him in vain he neither appeared to her view nor answered her indignant calls—Nor indeed though she forced his attendance had she the most remote hope of inspiriting him to any gallantry but still he was a man and she thought it a mark of consequence to have one in her train nor was it by any means nothing to her to torment Dr Orkborne with her reproaches To dispositions highly irascible it is frequently more gratifying to have a subject of complaint than of acknowledgment
The ladies being now all accommodated upon the deck sailing orders were given when an holla holla making the company look round Lynmere desired to be admitted All the party intended for the yacht were already on board and Lord Pervil told Mr Lynmere he would find a very good place in one of the pleasure boats but he answered he was just come from them and preferred going in the yacht Lord Pervil then only hoped the ladies would excuse being a little crowded Edgar had already glided in and Mr Westwyn had openly declared when asked to go to one of the boats that he always went where Hal went be it where it might
Clermont now elbowing his way into a group of gentlemen and addressing himself to young Halder who was amongst them said Do you know what theyve got to eat here
No
What the deuce have not you examined the larder I have been looking over the three boats—theres nothing upon earth—so I came to see if I could do any better here
Halder vowed if there were nothing to eat he would sooner jump over board and swim to shore than go starving on
Starving said Mr Westwyn why I saw myself several baskets of provisions taken into each of the boats
Only ham and fowls answered Clermont contemptuously
Only ham and fowls why what would you have
O the d——l answered he making faces not that antediluvian stuff any thing's better than ham and fowls
Stilton cheese for instance cried Mr Westwyn with a wrathful sneer that made Clermont who could not endure yet for many reasons could not resent it hastily decamp from his vicinity
Mr Westwyn looking after the young epicure with an expression of angry scorn now took the arm of Edgar whose evident interest in his first communication encouraged further confidence and said That person that you see walk that way just now is a fellow that I have a prodigious longing to give a good caning to I cant say I like him yet hes nephew and heir to the very best man in the three kingdoms However I heartily hope his uncle will disinherit him for hes a poor fool as well as a sorry fellow I love to speak my mind plainly
Edgar was illdisposed to conversation and intent only upon Camilla who was now seated between Mrs Berlinton and Eugenia and occupied by the fine prospects every where open to her yet he explained the error of Clermonts being heir as well as nephew to Sir Hugh at which the old gentleman almost jumping with surprise and joy said Why then whos to pay all his debts at Leipsic I cant say but what Im glad to hear this I hope hell be sent to prison with all my heart to teach him a little better manners For my old friend will never cure him he spoils young people prodigiously I dont believe hed so much as give em a horsewhipping let em do what they would That int my way Ask Hal
Here he stopt disturbed by a new sight which displaced Clermont from his thoughts
Camilla to whom the beauties of nature had mental as well as visual charms from the blessings as well as pleasure she had from childhood been instructed to consider as surrounding them was so enchanted by the delicious scenery every way courting her eyes the transparent brightness of the noble piece of water upon which she was sailing the richness and verdure of its banks the still and gently gliding motion of the vessel the clearness of the heavens and the serenity of the air that all her cares for a while would have been lost in admiring contemplation had she not painfully seen the eternal watching of Henry for her notice and gathered from the expression of his eyes his intended expostulation The self-reproach with which she felt how ill she could make her defence joined to a sincere and generous wish to spare him the humiliation of a rejection made her seek so to engage herself as to prevent the possibility of his uttering two sentences following But as this was difficult with Eugenia who was lost in silent meditation upon her own happiness or Mrs Berlinton who was occupied in examining the beauty so fatal to the repose of her brother she had found such trouble in eluding him that when she saw Lord Valhurst advance from the cabin where he had been drying and refreshing himself she welcomed him as a resource and taking advantage of the civility she owed him for what he had suffered in esquiring her gave him her sole attention always persuaded his admiration was but a sort of old fashioned politeness equally without design in itself, or subject for comment in others
But what is so hard to judge as the human heart The fairest observers misconstrue all motives to action where any received prepossession has found an hypothesis. To Edgar this conduct appeared the most degrading fondness for adulation and to Mr Westwyn a tyrannical caprice meant to mortify his son I hope you saw that I hope you saw that cried he for now I dont care a pin for her any longer and if Hal is such a mere fool as ever to think of her any more Ill never see his face again as long as I live After looking askew at the poor boy all this time to turn about and make way for that nasty old fellow as who should say Ill speak to nothing but a lord is what I shall never forgive and I wish I had never seen the girl nor Hal neither I cant say I like such ways I cant abide em
A sigh that then escaped Edgar would have told a more discerning person that he came in for his ample share in the same wish
And after all continued he being a lord is no such great feat that ever I could learn Hal might be a lord too if he could get a title There is nothing required for it but what any man may have nobody asks after what he can do or what he can say If hes got a good head its well and if he has not its all one And thats what you cant say of such a likely young fellow as my son You may see twenty for one thats as well looking Indeed to my mind I dont know that ever I saw a prettier lad in my life So she might do worse I promise her though she has used my son so shabbily I dont like her the better for it I assure her and so you may tell her if you please Im no great friend to not speaking my mind
The fear of being too late for the evenings arrangements made Lord Pervil after a two hours sail give orders for veering about the ladies were advised to go into the cabin during this evolution and Camilla was amongst those who most readily complied for the novelty of viewing what she had not yet seen But when with the rest she was returning to the deck Lord Valhurst who had just descended entreated her to stop one moment
Not at all conjecturing his reason she knew not how to refuse but innocently begged him to speak quick as she was in haste not to lose any of the beautiful landscapes they were passing
Ah what cried the enamoured peer what in the world is beautiful in any comparison with yourself To me no possible object can have such charms and I have now no wish remaining but never to lose sight of it
Amazed beyond all measure she stared at him a moment in silence and then confirmed by his looks that he was serious would have left the cabin with precipitance but preventing her from passing Charming Miss Tyrold he cried let the confession of my flame meet your favour and I will instantly make my proposals to your friends
To Camilla this offer appeared as little delicate as its maker was attractive yet she thought herself indebted for its general purport and as soon as her astonishment allowed her gracefully thanked him for the honour of his good opinion but entreated him to make no application to her friends as it would not be in her power to concur in their consent
Concluding this to be modest shyness he was beginning a passionate protestation of the warmth of his regard when the effusion was stopt by the appearance of Edgar
Little imagining so serious a scene to be passing as the few words he now gathered gave him to understand his perplexity at her not returning with the other ladies made him suggest this to be a favourable moment to seize for following her himself and demanding the sought though dreaded conference But when he found that his lordship instead of making as he had supposed his usual fond yet unmeaning compliments was pompously offering his hand he precipitately retired
No liveliness of temper had injured in Camilla the real modesty of her character A sense therefore of obligation for this partiality accompanied its surprise and was preparing her for repeating the rejection with acknowledgments though with firmness when the sight of Edgar brought an entirely new train of feelings and ideas into her mind O happy moment thought she he must have heard enough of what was passed to know me at least to be disinterested he must see now it was himself not his situation in life I was so prompt in accepting—and if again he manifests the same preference I may receive it with more frankness than ever for he will see my whole heart sincerely singly inviolably his own
Bewitched with this notion she escaped from the peer and ran up to the deck with a renovation of animal spirits so high so lively and so buoyant that she scarce knew what she said or did from the uncontroulable gaiety which made every idea dance to a happiness new even to her happy mind Whoever she looked at she smiled upon to whatever was proposed she assented scarce could she restrain her voice from involuntarily singing or her feet from instinctively dancing
Edgar compared with what he now felt believed that hitherto he had been a stranger to what wonder meant Is this thought he Camilla Has she wilfully fascinated this old man seriously to win him and has she won him but to triumph in the vanity of her conquest How is her delicacy perverted what is become of her sensibility Is this the artless Camilla modest as she was gay docile as she was spirited gentle as she was intelligent O how spoilt how altered how gone
Camilla little suspicious of this construction thought it would be now equally wrong to speak any more with either Henry or Lord Valhurst and talked with all others indiscriminately changing her object with almost every speech
A moments reflection would have told her that quietness alone in her present situation could do justice to the purity of her intentions but reflection is rarely the partner of happiness in the youthful breast it is commonly brought by sorrow and flies at the first dawn of returning joy
Thus while she dispensed to all around with views the most innocent her gay and almost wild felicity the very delight to which she owed her animation of believing she was evincing to Edgar with what singleness she was his own gave her the appearance in his judgment of a finished a vain an allaccomplished coquette The exaltation of her ideas brightened her eyes into a vivacity almost dazzling gave an attraction to her smiles that was irresistible the charm of fascination to the sound of her voice to her air a thousand nameless graces and to her manner and expression an enchantment
Powers so captivating now for the first time united with a facility of intercourse soon drew around her all the attendant admiring beaux
No animal is more gregarious than a fashionable young man who whatever may be his abilities to think rarely decides and still less frequently acts for himself He may wish he may appreciate internally with justice and wisdom but he only says and only does what some other man of fashion higher in vogue or older in courage has said or has done before him
The young Lord Pervil the star of the present day was now drawn into the magic circle of Camilla this was full sufficient to bring into it every minor luminary of his constellation and even the resplendent and incomparable beauty of Indiana even the soft and melting influence of the expressively lovely Mrs Berlinton gave way to the superior ascendance of that varied grace and winning vivacity which seemed instinctively sharing with the beholders its own pleasure and animation
To Edgar alone this gave her not new charms he saw in her more of beauty but less of interest the sentence dictated by Dr Marchmont as the watchword to his feelings were she mine recurred to him incessantly alas he thought with this dissipated delight in admiration what individual can make her happy to the rational serenity of domestic life she is lost
Again as he viewed the thickening group before her offering fresh and fresh incense which her occupied mind scarce perceived though her elevated spirits unconsciously encouraged he internally exclaimed O if her trusting father saw her thus her father who with all his tender lenity has not the blind indulgence of her uncle how would he start how would his sense of fair propriety be revolted—or if her mother—her respectable mother beheld thus changed thus undignified thus open to all flattery and all flatterers her no longer peerless daughter—how would she blush how would the tint of shame rob her impressive countenance of its noble confidence
These thoughts were too agitating for observation his eyes moistened with sadness in associating to his disappointment that of her revered and exemplary parents and he retreated from her sight till the moment of landing when with sudden desperation melancholy yet determined he told himself he would no longer be withheld from fulfilling his purpose
He made way then to the group though with unsteady steps his eye pierced through to Camilla she caught and fixt it He felt cold but still advanced She saw the change but did not understand it He offered her his hand before Lady Pervil arose to lead the way lest some competitor should seize it she accepted it rather surprized by such sudden promptness though encouraged by it to a still further dependance upon her revived and sanguine expectations
Yet deeper sunk this flattering illusion when she found his whole frame was shaking and saw his complexion every moment varying She continued though in a less disengaged manner her sprightly discourse with the group for he uttered not a word Content that he had secured her hand he waited an opportunity less public
Lady Pervil who possessed that true politeness of a wellbred woman of rank who knows herself never so much respected as when she lays aside mere heraldic claims to superiority would not quit the yacht of which she did the honours till every other lady was conducted to the shore Edgar had else purposed to have detained Camilla in the vessel a moment later than her party to hear the very few words it was his intention to speak Frustrated of this design he led her away with the rest still totally silent till her feet touched the beach she was then with seeming carelessness withdrawing her hand to trip off to Mrs Berlinton but Edgar suddenly grasping it tremulously said Will it be too much presumption—in a rejected man—to beg the honour of three minutes conference with Miss Tyrold before she joins her party
A voice piercing from the deep could not have caused in Camilla a more immediate revulsion of ideas; but she was silent in her turn and he led her along the beach while Mrs Berlinton attended by a train of beaux went to her carriage where thus engaged she contentedly waited
Do not fear he resumed when they had passed the crowd do not fear to listen to me though once more I venture to obtrude upon you some advice let it not displease you it is in the spirit of the purest good will it is singly solely and disinterestedly as a friend
Camilla was now all emotion pale she turned but Edgar did not look at her and she strove to thank him in a common manner and to appear cool and unmoved
My opinion my fears rather concerning Mrs Berlinton as I find she hopes soon for a near connexion with your family will henceforth remain buried in my own breast yet should you to any use hereafter remember them I shall rejoice though should nothing ever recur to remind you of them I shall rejoice still more Nor will I again torment you about that very underbred woman who inhabits the same house and who every where boasts an intimacy with its two ladies that is heard with general astonishment nor yet upon another and far more important topic will I now touch—the present evening recreation at Mrs Berlintons I know you are merely a spectatress and I will not alarm your friends nor dwell myself upon collateral mischiefs or eventual dangers from a business that in three days will end by your restoration to the most respectable of all protections All that now I mean to enter upon all that now I wish to enforce a few words will comprise and those words will be my—
He would have said my last but his breath failed him he stopt he wanted her to seize his meaning unpronounced and though it came to her as a thunderbolt from heaven its very horror helped her she divined what he could not utter by feeling what she could not hear
Few indeed cried he in broken accents must be these final words but how can I set out upon my so long procrastinated tour with an idea that you are not in perfect safety yet without attempting to point out to you your danger And yet—that you should be surrounded by admirers can create no wonder—that you should feel your power without displeasure is equally natural—I scarcely know therefore what I would urge—yet perhaps untold you may conceive what struggles in my breast and do justice to the conflict between friendship and respect where one prompts a freedom which the other trembles to execute I need not I think say that to offend you is nearly the only thing that could aggravate the affliction of this parting—
Camilla turned aside from him but not to weep her spirit was now rewakened by resentment that he could thus propose a separation without enquiring if she persisted to desire it
I tire you resumed he mournfully yet can you be angry that a little I linger Farewell however—the grave when it closes in upon me can alone end my prayers for your felicity I commit wholly to you my character and my conduct with regard to your most honoured father whom I beseech and conjure you to assure of my eternal gratitude and affection But I am uncertain of your wishes I will therefore depart without seeing him When I return to this country all will be forgotten—or remembered only— by me he meant to say but he checked himself and with forced composure went on
That I travel not with any view of pleasure you who know what I leave—how I prize what I lose—and how lately I thought all I most coveted mine for ever will easily believe But if earthly bliss is the lot of few what right had I to expect being so selected Severe as is this moment with blessings not with murmurs I quit you blessings which my life could it be useful to you should consecrate If you were persuaded our dispositions would not assimilate if mine appeared to you too rigorous too ungenial your timely precaution has spared more misery than it has inflicted How could I have borne the light when it had shewn me Camilla unhappy—yet Camilla my own—
His struggle here grew vain his voice faltered the resentment of Camilla forsook her she raised her head and was turning to him her softened countenance and filling eyes when she saw Melmond and a party of gentlemen fast approaching her from Mrs Berlinton Edgar saw them too and cutting short all he meant to have added kissed without knowing what he did the lace of her cloak and ejaculating Be Heaven your guard and happiness your portion left her hand to that of Melmond which was held out to her and slightly bowing to the whole party walked slowly and frequently looking back away while Camilla nearly blinded now by tears that would no longer be restrained kept her eyes fixedly upon the earth and was drawn more dead than alive by Melmond to the coach
CHAPTER II
Touches of Wit and Humour
The suddenness of this blow to Camilla at the moment when her expectations from Edgar were wound up to the summit of all she desired would have stupefied her into a consternation beyond even affliction had not the mildness of his farewell the kindness of his prayers and the friendship of his counsels joined to the generosity of leaving wholly to herself the account of their separation subdued all the pride that sought to stifle her tenderness and penetrated her with an admiration which left not one particle of censure to diminish her regret
Melmond and his sister always open to distress and susceptible to pity saw with true concern this melancholy change and concluded that Mandlebert had communicated some painful intelligence
She went straight to her own room with a sign of supplication that Mrs Berlinton would not follow and turning quick from Mrs Mittin who met her at the street door
Mrs Berlinton yielded but Mrs Mittin was not easily rebuffed She was loaded with lilac plumes ribbands and gauzes and Camilla saw her bed completely covered with her new ball dress
This sight was at first an aggravation of her agony by appearing to her as superfluous as it was expensive but wherever hope could find an aperture to creep in at it was sure of a welcome from Camilla Edgar was undoubtedly invited to the ball why should he not be there he had taken leave of her indeed and he certainly proposed going abroad but could a mere meeting once more be so repugnant as not to be endured
The answer to this question was favourable to her wishes for by her wishes it was framed and the next play of her fertile and quick reviving imagination described the meeting that would ensue the accidents that would bring them into the same set the circumstances that would draw them again into conversation and the sincerity with which she would do justice to her unalterable esteem by assuring him how injurious to it were his surmises that she thought him rigorous austere or in any single instance to blame
These hopes somewhat appeased though their uncertainty could not banish her terrors and she was able to appear at dinner tolerably composed
Another affair immediately after superseded them for the present by more urgent difficulties
Soon after her arrival at Southampton a poor woman who washed for her made a petition in behalf of her brother a petty shopkeeper who by various common yet pitiable circumstances of unmerited ill success in business was unable to give either money or security to the wholesale dealers for the renewal of his exhausted stock in trade though the present full season made it rational to suppose that if he had his usual commodities he might retrieve his credit save himself from bankruptcy and his children from beggary These last which were five in number were all upon various pretences brought to Camilla whose pity they excited by the innocence with which they seemed ignorant of requiring it and who received them with smiles and encouragement however frivolous their errands and frequent their interruptions But the goods which their father wanted to lay in to revive his trade demanded full thirty pounds which Camilla declared were as absolutely out of her power to give as thirty thousand though she promised to plead to Sir Hugh for the sum upon her return to Cleves and was prevailed with to grant her name to this promise for the wholesale dealers These would trust however to no verbal security and Mrs Mittin who from collateral reasons was completely a friend of the poor man offered to be bound for him herself though thirty pounds were nearly her years income provided Camilla would sign a paper by which she would engage upon her honour to indemnify her of any loss she might eventually sustain by this agreement as soon as she was of age or should find it in her power before that time
The seriousness of this clause made Camilla refuse the responsibility protesting she should have no added means in consequence of being of age But Mrs Mittin assured Higden the poor man as she assured all others that she was heiress to immense wealth for she had had it from one that had it from her own brothers own mouth and that though she could not find out why she was so shy of owning it she supposed it was only from the fear of being imposed upon
The steadiness of Camilla however could not withstand her compassion when the washerwoman brought the poor children to beg for their father and certain of her uncles bounty she would have run a far more palpable risk sooner than have assumed the force to send them weeping away
The stores were then delivered and all the family poured forth their thanks
But this day in quitting the dining parlour she was stopt in the hall by Higden who in unfeigned agonies related that some flasks of oil in a small hamper which were amongst the miscellaneous articles of his just collected stores had by some cruel accident been crushed and their contents finding their way into all the other packages had stained or destroyed them
Camilla to whose foresight misfortune never presented itself heard this with nearly equal terror for herself and sorrow for the poor man yet her own part in a second minute appeared that of mere inconvenience compared with his which seemed ruin irretrievable she sought therefore to comfort him but could afford no further help since she had painfully to beg from her uncle the sum already so uselessly incurred He ventured still to press that if again he could obtain a supply every evil chance should be guarded against but Camilla had now learned that accidents were possible and the fear which arises from disappointed trust made her think of probable mischiefs with too acute a discernment to deem it right to run again any hazard where if there were a failure another not herself would be the sufferer Yet the despair of the poor man induced her to promise she would write in his favour though not act in it again unauthorised
With feelings of still augmented discomfort from her denial she repaired to her toilette but attired herself without seeing what she put on or knowing but by Mrs Mittins descriptions and boastings that her dress was new of the Pervil uniform and made precisely like that of Mrs Berlinton Her agitated spirits suspended not between hope and fear but hope and despair permitted no examination of its elegance the recollection of its expence and the knowledge that Edgar thought her degenerating into coquetry left nothing but regret for its wear
Mrs Berlinton who never before since her marriage had been of any party where her attractions had not been unrivalled had believed herself superior to pleasure from personal homage and knew not till she missed it that it made any part of her amusement in public But the Beauty when first she perceives a competitor for the adulation she has enjoyed exclusively and the Statesman at the first turn of popular applause to an antagonist are the two beings who perhaps for the moment require the most severe display of self-command to disguise under the semblance of good humour or indifference the disappointment they experience in themselves, or the contempt with which they are seized for the changing multitude
Mrs Berlinton though she felt no resentment against Camilla for the desertion she had occasioned her felt much surprize not to be first was new to her and whoever in any station of life any class of society has had regular and acknowledged precedency must own a sudden descent to be rather awkward Where resignation is voluntary to give up the higher place may denote more greatness of mind than to retain it but where imposed by others few things are less exhilarating to the principal or impress less respect upon the bystander
Mrs Berlinton had never been vain but she could not be ignorant of her beauty and that the worlds admiration should be so wondrously fickle or so curiously shortlived as to make even the bloom of youth fade before the higher zest of novelty was an earlier lesson than her mind was prepared to receive She thought she had dressed herself that morning with too much carelessness of what was becoming and devoted to this evening a greater portion of labour and study
While Camilla was impatiently waiting Mrs Pollard the washerwoman gained admittance to her and bringing two interesting little children of from four to five years old and an elder girl of eleven made them join with herself to implore their benefactress to save them all from destruction
Higden having had the imprudence in his grief to make known his recent misfortune it had reached the ears of his landlord who already was watchful and suspicious from a year and half arrears of his rent and steps were immediately preparing to seize whatever was upon the premises the next morning which by bringing upon him all his other creditors would infallibly immure him in the lingering hopelessness of a prison
Camilla now wavered the debt was but eighteen pounds the noble largesses of her uncle in charity till of late that he had been somewhat drained by Lionel were nearly unlimited—She paused—looked now at the pleading group now at her expensive dress asked how for her own hopes she could risk so much yet for their deliverance from ruin so little and with a blush turning from the mirrour and to the children with a tear finally consented that the landlord should apply to her the next morning
Lord Pervil had some time opened the ball before Mrs Berlintons arrival but he looked every where for Camilla to succeed to a young lady of quality with whom he had danced the first two dances He could not however believe he had found though he now soon saw and made up to her The brilliancy of her eyes was dimmed by weeping her vivacity was changed into dejection sighs and looks of absence took place of smiles and sallies of gaiety and her whole character seemed to have lost its spring and elasticity She gave him her hand to preserve her power of giving it if claimed by Edgar and though he had thought of her without ceasing since she had charmed him in the yacht till he had obtained it not a lady appeared in the room by the time these two dances were over that he would not more cheerfully have chosen for two more her gravity every minute encreased her eye rolled with restless anxiety every where except to meet his and so little were her thoughts looks or conversation bestowed upon her partner that instead of finding the animated beauty who had nearly captivated him on board the yacht he seemed coupled with a fair lifeless machine whom the music perforce put in motion and relinquished her hand with as little reluctance as she withdrew it
Melmond had again by his sister been forced into the party though with added unwillingness from his new idea of Indiana Now however to avoid that fair bane was impossible Indiana was the first object to meet every eye from the lustre of her beauty and the fineness of her figure each more than ever transcendently conspicuous from the uniform which had obliged every other female in the room to appear in exactly the same attire Yet great and unrivalled as was the admiration which she met what came simply and naturally was insufficient for the thirst with which she now quaffed this intoxicating beverage and to render its draughts still more delicious she made Eugenia always hold by her arm The contrast here to the spectators was diverting as well as striking and renewed attention to her own charms when the eye began to grow nearly sated with gazing The ingenuous Eugenia incapable of suspecting such a design was always the dupe to the request from the opinion it was made in kindness to save her from fatigue in the eternal sauntering of a public place and lost to all fear in being lost to all hope as to her own appearance cheerfully accompanied her beautiful kinswoman without conjecturing that in a company whence the illiterate and vulgar were excluded personal imperfections could excite pleasantry or be a subject of satire
Camilla who still saw nothing of Edgar yet still thought it possible he might come joined them as soon as she was able Miss Margland was full of complaints about Dr Orkborne for his affording them no assistance in the yacht and not coming home even to dinner nor to attend them to Lord Pervils and Eugenia who was sincerely attached to the Doctor from the many years he had been her preceptor was beginning to express her serious uneasiness at his thus strangely vanishing when Clermont with the most obstreperous laughter made up to them and said Ill tell you a monstrous good joke the best thing you ever heard in your life the old Doctors been upon the very point of being drowned—and he has not had a morsel to eat all day
He then related that his man having seen him composedly seated and musing upon a pile of planks which were seasoning upon the beach with his face turned away from the company to avoid its interruptions had enquired if he had any commands at home whither he was going Not for meaning to do them continued Lynmere No no catch Bob at that but only to break in upon him for Bobs a rare hand at a joke He says hes ready to die with laughing when he speaks to the old Doctor while hes studying because he looks so much as if he wished we were all hanged However he answered tolerably civilly and only desired that nobody might go into his room till he came home from the sail for hed forgot to lock it So Bob who smoked how the matter was says The sail Sir what are you going alone then for all the companys been gone these two hours So this put him in such a taking Bob says he never laughed so much in his life He jumped up as if hed been bit Gone says he why wheres Miss Eugenia I promised Sir Hugh not to lose sight of her So he said hed go after her that very moment Call me a boat said he just as if hed ordered a hackney coach for he knows about as much of winds and tides as my little bay Filly that I bought of Halder yesterday for fifty pounds but that I shall make worth seventy in less than a month Well there was nothing to be had but a small fishing boat so Bob winks at the man to take in a friend for he has all those fellows in a string So in went his Latinship and off they put Bob fell into such a fit of laughter he says I might have heard him a mile off I dont think Bob has his fellow upon earth for fun
Eugenia now interrupted the narration with a serious enquiry where Dr Orkborne was at present
Lynmere shouting at what he thought the ridicule of this concern answered that Bob had told the fisherman to go about his own business unless the Doctor offered to pay him handsomely for taking him on board the yacht but thinking it would be a good joke to know what was become of him he had gone himself with Halder and some more choice blades to the beach about half an hour ago to make Bob see if the fishing boat was come in and by good luck they arrived at the very nick of time and saw the Doctor the fish and the fishingtackle all hauled out together And a better sight was never seen before I promise you continued Lynmere I thought I should quite have burst my sides with looking at him he was so wet and so cold and so miserable and when I thought of his having had no dinner I shouted till I was ready to roll on the beach—and he smelt so of the fish that I could have hugged Bob twas such monstrous good sport He got three half crowns in a minute for his ingenuity Halder began—and two others of us gave two more
Poor Dr Orkborne and where is he now said Eugenia
Why we got about the fisherman and then we had all the same fun over again He says that at first the poor gentleman was in a great taking fretting and fuming and looking out for the yacht and seeming almost beside himself for hurry to get to it but after that he takes out a little red book and a pencil and falls to writing just as hard as if hed come into the boat for nothing else insomuch that when they were just coming alongside the yacht he never lifted up his head nor listened to one word but kept making a motion with his hand to be let alone and when the man said the yacht would be passed he bid him hold his peace and not interrupt him so in such a pettish manner that the man resolved to take honest Bobs advice and go on about his own business And so he did and the Doctor was as content as a lord till he had scribbled all he could scratch out of his noddle but then came the best sport of all for when he had nothing more to write and looked up and saw the boat stock still and the man fishing at his leisure and heard the yacht had been bound homeward of a good hour he was in such a perilous passion the man says that he actually thought hed have jumped overboard Ill bet what you will he wont ask Bob to call him a boat again in a hurry
As to his behaviour said Miss Margland its the last thing in the world to surprize me after what I have seen myself nor any body else I believe neither Who is Dr Orkborne I doubt much if any body ever heard his name before I should like to know if any body can tell who was his grandfather
She then declared if she could get any soul to fetch him he should still come if it were only that he might not pass the evening all in his own way which would be just the thing to encourage him to hide himself out of sight on purpose not to help them another time
Eugenia was going to beg he might not be disturbed when Melmond all alacrity to seize any means of absenting himself from the two cousins who produced in him so severe a conflict offered his services to carry a message to the Doctor which being readily accepted he set off
Indiana and Eugenia not wholly without similarity of sensation looked after him Indiana had now caught his eye and though quickness was no part of her character the tale it told had convinced her that her power though no longer acknowledged was not extinguished it required neither elemental precepts nor sagacious perceptions to make this discovery and she exultingly determined to appease her late mortification by reducing him to her feet She stopt not to enquire what such a step might be to Eugenia nor what was likely or even desirable to be its event Where narrow minds imagine they have received injury they seek revenge rather than redress from an opinion that such a conduct asserts their own importance
Still vainly and wretchedly the eyes of Camilla sought Edgar the evening advanced but he came not yet catching at every possible chance for hope she thought some other room that they had not visited might be open for company where finally they might meet
Dr Orkborne accompanied Melmond back Miss Margland was preparing him a reproachful reception but was so much offended by the fishy smell which he brought into the room that she had immediate recourse to her salts and besought him to stand out of her way He complied without reluctance though with high disdain
The young ladies were all dancing Indiana had no sooner perceived Melmond than she determined to engage his attention the arts of coquetry require but slender parts where the love of admiration is potent she pretended therefore to feel extremely ill put her hand to her forehead and telling her partner Mr Halder she could not stand another minute hastened to Miss Margland and cast herself as if fainting upon her neck
This had all the success with Melmond that his own lively imagination could give it He flew to a sidetable to get her a glass of water which his trembling hand could scarce hold but which she received from him with a languishing sweetness that dissolved every tie but of love and he hung over her enamoured4 while Miss Margland related that she could hardly keep from fainting herself so much she had been shocked and disordered by the horrid smell of Dr Orkborne
Indiana now caught the infection and protested she was so much worse that if she had not a little air she should die Melmond was flying to open a window but a lady who sat close to it objected and he had then recourse to two folding doors leading to a portico open to a large garden
Hither Indiana permitted herself to be led and led by the thrice happy yet thrice miserable Melmond Miss Margland was accompanying them but Lady Pervil advancing to enquire what went wrong gave her an opportunity irresistible to inveigh against Dr Orkborne and as her wellbred hearer though little interested in such a detail would not interrupt it Indiana arrived alone in the portico with Melmond Halder who had danced with her followed but supposing Melmond the favoured man walked singing off and made the tour of the garden
This situation was to Melmond as dangerous as to Indiana it was exulting She now suddenly withdrew her hand with an air of poignant disdain which the illuminated portico and house made amply visible and when surprised and much moved he tremblingly enquired if she were worse she answered Why do you ask I am sure you do not care
Easily deprived of all forbearance Heavens he exclaimed do I live yet suffer this imputation O divine Indiana load me with every other reproach rather than this dreadful charge of insensibility to all that is most lovely most perfect upon earth
I thought said Indiana again softening her fine eyes you had quite forgot me and all the vows you made to me
Wretch that I am cried Melmond nearly distracted by this charge and by the regret at losing him which seemed its purpose condemned to every species of woe O fair angelic Indiana in a cottage with you would I have dwelt more delightedly and more proudly than any potentate in the most gorgeous palace but alas from you—formed to enchant all mankind and add grace to every dignity—from you could I dare ask such a sacrifice
Indiana now listened with an attentive softness no longer factitious though all her views wafted her to splendour and high life her ear could not withstand the romantic sound of love and a cottage and though no character was ever less formed to know and taste the blessings such a spot may bestow and reciprocate she imagined she might there be happy for she considered such a habitation but as a bower of eglantine and roses in which she might repose and be adored all day long
Melmond saw but too quickly the relenting cast of her countenance and ecstasy and despair combated which should bear sway in his breast Ah madam he cried most adorable and most adored of women you know my terrible situation but you know not the sufferings nor the constancy of my heart—the persecution of friends the pressure of distress the hopelessness of my idolized Indiana—
A deep sigh interrupted him—it came not from Indiana—startled he looked round—and beheld Eugenia leaning against the door by which she seemed to have intended entering pale petrified aghast
Shame now tied his tongue and tingled with quick reproach through his whole frame He looked at Indiana with despair at Eugenia with remorse injured rectitude and blushing honour urged him to the swiftest termination of so every way terrible a scene and bowing low to Eugenia I durst not madam he cried ever hope for your pardon yet I rather deluded myself than deceived you when I ventured to solicit your acceptance Alas I am a bankrupt both in fortune and in heart and can only pray you will hasten to forget—that you may forbear to execrate me
He then disappeared finding a way out by the garden to avoid reentering the ballroom
Eugenia who in this speech comprehended an eternal adieu sunk upon the seat of the portico cold shivering almost lifeless Little prepared for such an event she had followed Indiana the moment she was disengaged from the dance not suspicious of any têteàtête from believing Halder of the party The energy of Melmond made her approach unheard and the words she unavoidably caught nearly turned her to marble
Indiana was sorry for her distress yet felt a triumph in its cause and wondered how so plain a little creature could take it into her head to think of marrying
Camilla now joined them affrighted at the evident anguish of Eugenia who leaning upon her affectionate bosom had the relief excited by pity of bursting into tears while despondingly she uttered All is over my sister and over for life with Eugenia Melmond flies and detests me I am odious in his sight I am horror to this thoughts
Camilla wept over her in silent but heartbreaking sympathy Indiana returned to the dance but the two suffering sisters remained in the portico till summoned to depart They were insensible to the night air from the fever of their minds They spoke no more they felt the insufficiency of words to express their griefs and their mutual compassion was all that softened their mutual sorrows
CHAPTER III
An Adieu
Lost to all happiness and for the first time in her life divested of hope Camilla at a late hour returned to Mrs Berlintons And here her heartbreaking disappointment received the cruel aggravation of the most severe selfreproach when in facing the mirror to deposit her ornaments upon the toilette table she considered the expensive elegance of her whole dress now even in her own estimation by its abortive purpose rendered glaringly extravagant Since her project had failed she saw the impropriety of having risked so much in its attempt and a train of just reflections ensued to which her understanding was always equal though her gaiety was seldom disposed Would Edgar thought she wait the event of a meeting at a ball to decide his conduct Had he not every title to claim a conference with me if he had the smallest inclination Rejected as he calls himself I had not pretended to demand our separation from any doubts any displeasure of my own From the moment he suffered me to quit without reclamation the roof under which I had proposed our parting I ought to have seen it was but his own desire perhaps design I was executing And all the reluctance he seemed to feel which so weakly I attributed to regard was but the expiring sensibility of the last moment of intercourse Not with murmurs he says he will quit me—nor with murmurs will I now resign him—with blessings he says he leaves me—O Edgar mayest thou too be blest The erring and unequal Camilla deserved thee not
A more minute examination of her attire was not calculated to improve her serenity Her robe was everywhere edged with the finest Valencienne lace her lilac shoes sash and gloves were richly spangled with silver and finished with a silver fringe her earrings and necklace were of lilac and gold beads her fan and shoe roses were brilliant with lilac foil and her bouquet of artificial lilac flowers and her plumes of lilac feathers were here and there tipt with the most tiny transparent white beads to give them the effect of being glittering with the dew
Of the cost of all this she was no judge but certain its amount must be high a warm displeasure arose against the incorrigible Mrs Mittin who had not only taken the pattern but the value of Mrs Berlintons dress for her guide and a yet greater dissatisfaction ensued with herself for trusting the smallest commission to so vain and ungovernable an agent She could only hope to hoard the payment from the whole of her next years allowance by living in so forbearing and retired a manner as to require nothing for herself
The new but all powerful guest which now assailed her unhappiness had still kept her eyes from closing when she was called up to Mr Tennet the landlord of Higden Her fuller knowledge of her own hopeless debts could not make her faithless to her engagement for her acquaintance with misery awakened but more pity for the misery of others She admitted him therefore without demur and found he was a land surveyor who had often been employed by Sir Hugh at Cleves He accepted her verbal promise to be answerable for the rent now due declining her note of hand which her minority made illegal and engaging not to hurry her for the money well satisfied by the Tyrold character in the whole county he might abide by her word of honour founded upon the known munificence of her uncle
This delay was a relief as it saved a partial demand that must have forced an abrupt confession of her own debts or have deceived the baronet into a belief she had nothing to solicit
When this business was transacted she hastened to Eugenia to console whose sufferings was all that could mitigate her own
One of the maids then came to say she had forgotten to inform her that some time after she had set out for Lord Pervils a stranger much muffled up and with a hat flapped over his face so as wholly to hide it had enquired for her and seemed much disturbed when he heard she was at the ball but said he would call again the next day at noon
No conjecture occurred to Camilla but that this must be Edgar it was contrary to all probability but no other image could find way to her mind She hastened inexpressibly perturbed to her sister determining to be at home before twelve oclock and fashioning to herself all the varieties such a meeting could afford every one of which however they began ended regularly with a reconciliation
She found Eugenia weeping in bed She embraced her with the extremest tenderness Ah my sister said the unhappy mourner I weep not for my disappointment great as it may be—and I do not attempt describing it—it is but my secondary sorrow I weep Camilla for my own infatuation for the folly the blindness of which I find myself culpable O Camilla is it possible I could ever—for a moment a single moment suppose Melmond could willingly be mine could see his exquisite susceptibility of every thing that is most perfect yet persuade myself he could take by choice the poor Eugenia for his wife the mangled deformed—unfortunate Eugenia
Camilla touched to the heart wept now more than her sister That Eugenia she cried has but to be known to leave all beauty all figure every exterior advantage aloof by the nobler the more just superiority of intrinsic worth Let our estimates but be mental and who will not be proud to be placed in parallel with Eugenia
She was then beginning her own sad relation when an unopened letter upon the toilette table caught her eye It had been placed there by Molly Mill who thought her mistress asleep Struck by the shape of the seal Camilla rose to examine it what was her palpitation then to see the cypher E M and turning to the other side to perceive the hand writing of Edgar
She put it into her sisters hand with expectation too big for speech Eugenia opened it and they read it silently together
To Miss Eugenia Tyrold
Southampton
Tis yet but a short time—in every account but my own—since I thought myself forming a legal claim to address Miss Eugenia Tyrold as my sister Every other claim to that affectionate and endearing title has been hers beyond her own memory hers by the filial love I bear her venerated parents hers by the tender esteem due to the union of almost every virtue These first and early ties must remain for ever Disappointment here cannot pierce her barbarous shafts fortune cannot wanton in reversing nor can time dissolve them——
O Edgar exclaimed Camilla stopping the reading and putting her hand as in benediction upon the paper do you deign to talk of disappointment do you condescend to intimate you are unhappy Ah my Eugenia you shall clear this dreadful error—tis to you he applies—you shall be peacemaker restorer
Eugenia dried her tears at the thought of so sweet an office and they read on
Of the other—yet nearer claim I will not speak You have probably known longer than myself its annihilation and I will not pain your generous heart with any view of my sufferings in such a deprivation I write but to take with my pen the leave I dare not trust myself to take by word of mouth to wish to your opening prospects all the happiness that has flown mine and to entreat you to answer for me to the whole of your loved family that its name is what through life my ear with most reverence will hear my heart with most devotion will love
Edgar Mandlebert
At the kind wish upon her own opening prospects Eugenia wept afresh but when Camilla took the letter to press to her lips and her heart what he said of his sufferings she perceived at the doubling down two lines more—
I am this moment leaving Southampton for the Isle of Wight whence I shall sail to the first port that the first vessel with which I may meet shall be bound
No my dear Eugenia cried she then colouring and putting down the letter your mediation will be spared He acquaints us he is quitting England He can only mention it to avoid the persecution of an answer Certainly none shall be obtruded upon him
Eugenia pleaded that still a letter might overtake him at the Isle of Wight and all misunderstanding might be rectified And then my sister all may be well and your happiness renewed—It has not flown you—like that of Eugenia—from any radical cause Hers is not only gone past all resource but has left behind it disgrace with sorrow derision with disappointment
Camilla strove to soothe her but would no longer listen to any mediation she resolved at once to write of the separation to her father and beseech him to send for her to Etherington and never again suffer her to quit that roof where alone her peace was without disturbance her conduct without reproach Even her debts now she felt equal to avowing for as far from contracting new ones she meant in future to reside in complete obscurity she hoped the feelings of this moment would procure pardon for her indiscretions which her own sedulous future œconomy should be indefatigable to repair
Eugenia would not strive longer against a procedure which she deemed dignified and the departure of Camilla was hurried by a messenger who brought word that the strange man with the flapped hat was returned and entreated her for Heavens sake to let him speak with her one moment
Dead now to the hope she had entertained of this enquirer she merely from his own urgency complied with his call for her curiosity was gone since she now knew it could not be Edgar
Edgar indeed was actually departed His heart was loaded with sorrow his prospect seemed black with despondence but Camilla was lost to that perfect confidence and unbounded esteem he required to feel for his wife and no tenderness without them no partial good opinion nor general admiration could make him wish to lead her to the altar No cried he Dr Marchmont you judged me better than my first passion and her untried steadiness enabled me to judge myself Misery only could have followed my view of her in the mixt society in which the thousand accidents of life might occasionally have placed us I can only be happy with a character as simple in the world as in retirement as artless at an assembly as in a cottage Without that heavenly simplicity the union of all else that renders life desirable were vain without that—all her enchanting qualities with which nothing can vie and which are entwined around my heartstrings were ineffectual to my peace
You are right said the Doctor and your timely caution and early wisdom will protect you from the bitterness of a personal experience like mine With all the charms she assembles her character seems too unstable for private domestic life When a few years more have blunted the wild vivacity the floating ambition the changing propensities which now render her inconsistent to others and fluctuating even to herself she may yet become as respectable as she must always be amiable But now whoever takes her from the circle in which she is playing will see her lost to all gaiety though without daring to complain from the restraint of bidden duties which make the bidder a tyrant
Edgar shrunk from such a part and immediately prepared for his long projected tour
He had originally purposed visiting Mr Tyrold before he set out and conversing with him upon the state of danger in which he thought his daughter but his tenderness for her feelings during his last adieu had beguiled him of this plan lest it should prove painful injurious or inauspicious to her own views or designs in breaking to her friends their breach He now addressed a few lines to his revered guardian to be delivered by Dr Marchmont to whom he gave discretionary powers if any explanation should be demanded though clogged with an earnest clause that he would neither advance nor confess any thing that could hurt Camilla even a moment unless to avert from her some danger or substantiate some good
Dr Marchmont determined to accompany him to the Isle of Wight whither he resolved to go and wait for his baggage and undertook the superintendance of his estate and affairs in his absence
When they were summoned to the little vessel Edgar changed colour his heart beat quick and he sighed rather than breathed He held his hand upon his eyes and forehead for a few minutes in agony inexpressible then silently gave his servant the letter he had written for Eugenia took the Doctor by the arm walked to the beach and got aboard his head still turned wholly towards the town his eyes looking above it as if seeking to fix the habitation of Camilla Dr Marchmont sought to draw his attention another way but it was rivetted to the spot they were quitting
I feel truly your unhappiness my dear Mandlebert said he that this young creature with defects of so cruel a tendency mingles qualities of so endearing a nature Judge however the predominance of what is faulty since parents so exemplary have not been able to make the scales weigh down on the side of right Alas Mr Tyrold has himself erred in committing at so early a period her conduct into her own reins The very virtues in the first youth are so little regulated by reflection that were they not watched nor aided they run into extremes nearly as pernicious though not so unamiable as the vices What instance more than this now before us can shew the futility of education and the precariousness of innate worth when the contaminating world is allowed to seize its inexperienced prey before the character is fixed as well as formed
A deeply assenting sigh broke from the bosom of Edgar whose strained eyes held their purpose till neither beach nor town nor even a spire of Southampton were discernible Again then for a moment he covered them with his hand and exclaimed Farewell Camilla farewell
CHAPTER IV
A modest Request
Quick though without a wish of speed was the return home of Camilla she felt at this moment in that crushed and desolate state where the sudden extinction of hope leaves the mind without energy to form even a wish She was quick only because too nervous to be slow and hurried on so little knowing why that when she came to Mrs Berlintons she was running to her own room wholly forgetting what had called her from Eugenia till the servant said this is the man maam
She then saw parading up and down the hall a figure wrapt round in a dark blue roquelo with no part of his face visible from the flaps of his hat
At another time she might have been startled but she was now indifferent to everything and only enquired what was his business
He made no answer but by a low bow pointing at the same time to the door of one of the parlours and then in a supplicating manner putting together his hands as if begging to speak to her in private
Careless rather than courageous she was going into an empty room with him when the servant whispered her to be upon her guard as the man had a very suspicious look
Stopping short then she again repeated her question adding I can hear anything you have to say where we now are
The stranger shook his head with a motion towards the servant that seemed to demand his absence
Alas thought she it is some gentleman in distress who wants to beg and is ashamed I have nothing to give him I will at least therefore not insist upon his exposing himself She then whispered the footman to keep in the hall and near the parlour which she entered telling the incognito he might follow
But she was seriously alarmed out of her apathy upon seeing him cautiously shut the door and sedulously examine the apartment
She wanted not presence of mind when not robbed of it by some peculiar and poignant feelings She turned immediately to the bell certain its first touch would bring in the footman but perceiving her purpose the stranger seized her by the arm and in a hoarse low voice said Are you mad Camilla dont you know me and she recognized her brother
She expostulated upon his having so causelessly terrified her and enquired why he came so disguised
He laughed heartily at her affright and extolled his own skill in personating a subtle ruffian declaring he liked to have a touch at all trades in case of accidents
And have you come hither Lionel only for this foolish and very unpleasant trick
O no my dear this was only for my opening I have an hundred smart freaks in my head any one of them worth a little trip to Southampton Besides I wanted to know what you were about How does a certain master Edgar Mandlebert do Dont blush child What a little sly rogue you have been hey ho Tears—My dear Camilla whats all this
She entreated him to make his enquiries of Eugenia
Well you took me in I promise you I fully thought the young Baronet had been the man And really hes as fine a fellow as I ever saw
Do not speak of him I beg O Lionel—if you knew— She was going to say how through your means that affair has injured me—but she checked complaints which she now regarded as useless and therefore degrading and wiping her eyes asked if he had yet considered the large sum for the obligation of which he had made her seem responsible to Sir Sedley whom she should not know how ever to meet nor consequently how ever to visit in the county till some payment if not made were at least arranged
Pho pho my dear child dont be so Vellumlike youll be fit for nothing soon but to file bills and score accounts Whats two hundred to him Hang him I wish twere as much again—I hate making a fuss about nothing But come tell me something to raise my spirits—I am horribly melancholy Ive some notion of making a little sport here with Miss Scarecrow How does she go on Waspish as ever
Do tell me seriously Lionel what it is has brought you hither
Two things my dear The first of which is the pleasure of seeing you and the second is a little amusement I propose myself with old Dr Hic Hæc Hoc I find Clermonts had rare sport with him already Its deuced unlucky I did not come sooner
Clermont When did you see Clermont
Dont be curious child I never encourage curiosity It always leads to disagreeable questions You may tell me any thing you please but ask nothing Thats my manner of dealing with little girls How did you like my sending the Major to you Was not that good fudge What do you look so grave for my dear Youre enough to give one the vapours
Camilla attempted not to rally she felt pierced as by a poniard at the very sight of Lionel The debt he had made her contract with Sir Sedley the secrecy it exacted the correspondence it had drawn on the cruel circumstances it had produced and the heartbreaking event to which it had ultimately led made his view excite sensations too corrosive and reflections too bitter for any enjoyment of a gaiety which her utmost partiality could not disentangle from levity the most unfeeling
Come come for pitys sake be a little less stupid I conjure you How terribly you want a good shaking shall I give you one By the way you have never thanked me for sending you that smart young tinker You are horribly ungrateful to all my tender care to provide you a good spouse What not a smile Not one dear little dimple for all my rattle Nay then if thats the case lets to business at once Anything is better than mawkishness I always preferred being flogged for a frolic to being told I was a good boy at the expence of sitting still and learning my lesson
And what business my dear Lionel Have you really any
O yes always nobody has more only I do it so briskly people always suppose it nothing but pleasure However just at this minute I am really in rather an ugly dilemma You know my dear girl there is a certain little rather awkward affair of mine which I once hinted to you—
Lionel I hope at least——
O none of your hopes with that grave face Hope with a grave face always means fear Now as I am already half shoes over in the slough of despond twill be horrid ungenerous to poke me still lower
Camilla now began to tremble and would ask no questions—Lionel when he had silenced her seemed at a loss how to proceed he walked about the room with quick jerks opened and shut the window seated himself upon every chair and every table and then in a half passion said so you dont want to hear any more and you dont care a fig if Im hanged or drowned
My spirits are not high my dear Lionel and my head is full and my heart is oppressed if you have any thing, therefore important to say speak I beg without trifling
Nay theres nothing new so dont look frightened its all the same old story
You continue then that dark mysterious connexion O brother
Why shes so pretty so monstrous pretty besides she doats upon me You dont half conceive what a pretty fellow I am Camilla A sister never knows how to judge a man All the women like me prodigiously
Indeed Lionel you take an undue advantage of my affection I must seriously insist that you mention this subject to me no more
I dont intend it I intend to finish with this once—provided you do me one last good turn Will you now Come dont be queer
I will do nothing absolutely nothing in so improper—so shocking a business Indeed I know not how to forgive you for naming it again
Well then Ill pledge you my word and honour you shall never hear of it more if youll only grant me this one favour
Displeased at the past and frightened for what might be to come she protested she would immediately leave the room if he continued this persecution adding how affectionately I love you I need not I am sure say but a confidence such as this from a brother to a sister disgraces us both and let me penetrate but not irritate you if I own that I much doubt whether I ought not from the beginning to have revealed this transaction at Etherington Do not be angry Lionel has not every consideration been surmounted by the fear of giving you pain
Finding he still would be heard she was peremptorily quitting the room but when she had her hand upon the door he effectually stopt her by saying Nay then if nothing will content you but getting the whole out at once you may make yourself easy the business is at end for——were blown
I must certainly be glad if such a business is at an end Lionel but how do you mean blown to whom in what manner
To every body Im afraid for the husbands upon the point of getting at it
Husband
O the deuce I did not mean to say that however its out and as it must have been known sooner or later——
Camilla now had an air the nearest to severity she had ever worn Adieu Lionel she cried I am sorry for you indeed but you must find another hearer for this guilty history—I will listen no more
Lionel now detained her by force How can you take up the thing so wrong said he when I tell you its over isnt that enough Besides I promise you I have not wanted for my punishment when you hear all youll find that
Too sick for speech yet too weak for resistance she was constrained to return to her seat and hear what he pleased to relate
My adventure my dear was discovered entirely by the want of a little hush money Tis the very deuce and all for a man to be in love when he is poor If I had only had a little hushmoney—yes yes I understand that eye but as to those paltry sums I have had from time to time since this affair why they could not be expected to last for ever And the first went to a housemaid—and the second to the groom—and the third——
Lionel Lionel is this a communication—are these particulars for me
Nay I only mention it to let you know its all gone fairly Besides as to her being a married woman which I see is what you think so much the worst of all I assure you if you knew her husband you would not wonder he deserves every thing Such a tiresome quiz It was often hours before we could get rid of him You never knew such a blockhead The poor thing cant bear him But shes fond of me to distraction Nay nay dont frown so If youll believe me Camilla youll quite spoil your face Well the fellow that threatens to betray us wont keep our secret under three hundred pounds Theres an unconscionable knave However I thought that better than a trial too not that she would have broken her heart at a separation youll believe but then theres a certain horrid thing called damages And then my fathers particularities—and my mothers seeing things in such strong lights—and a parsons son—and all that—
Camilla shaking and pale now entreated him to get her a glass of water and for a while at least to forbear continuing this terrible story
He consented to ring for the water and then more briefly went on
Finding it vain to hope any longer for entire concealment I thought a private discovery less shocking than a public one and therefore telling my story as well as I could I stated that three hundred pounds would save both the expences and publicity of a trial and with every possible profession of contrition and reformation I humbly petitioned for that sum from my uncle
My poor uncle alas what unreasonable—unmerciful claims every way surround him
Hes well revenged for mine I promise you Theres no plague lost between us as youll own when youve heard the end of my poor petition I followed up my letter according to my usual custom the next day in order to receive my money knowing poor uncle hates writing worse than giving well and when I arrived my mind just made up to a few gentle reprimands against naughtiness and as many gentle promises to do so no more out pops me the old butler and says his master cant see me Not see me Why whos with him Your father Sir O—then for your life cries I dont say I have been here—but now—Camilla will you think me punished or not—My uncle had a little gout in his righthand and had made my father open and read—that very day—all his letters If ever you knew old Nick serve a poor young fellow a worse turn than that tell me so I owe him such a grudge for it I could almost find it in my heart to turn parson myself
Camilla could not utter a word She dropt her head over her folded arms upon the table to hide her offending brother from her sight whom now placed in opposition to her allexcellent father she blamed beyond her powers beyond what she conceived even her rights of expression
Why now my dear Camilla what do you hide your face for Do you think Im not as sorry for this thing as you can be for the life of you However now comes the worst and if you dont pity me when you hear this you may depend upon it you have no bowels I was making off as fast as I could mum the word to the servants when in comes old Jacob with a letter I snatched it from him hoping my uncle had privately sent me a draft—but the direction was written by my father Dont you begin to feel a little for me now
She could only raise her head to ejaculate My poor—poor father and then nearly in an agony drop it again
Heyday Camilla hows this what not one word of poor poor brother too why you are harder than flint However read that letter And then if you dont think me the most unhappy young fellow in existence you are fit to devise tortures for the inquisition
She took the letter eagerly yet awfully kissed in weeping the handwriting and read what follows
To Lionel Tyrold Esq
To have brought up my family with the purity of principle which the holy profession of their father ought to inspire him to teach has been from the hour that my paternal solicitudes commenced the most fervent of my prayers How my hopes have been deluded you have but too long known how grossly they have failed has reached my own knowledge but this moment I here resign the vain expectation that through my son the community might bless me may a forfeiture so dread not extend to me also through my daughters—
Camilla stopt sunk upon her knees and devoutly repeated the last sentence with her own ardent supplications joined to it before she could proceed
A few words more must for the present suffice between us Accident by throwing into my hands this last letter to the uncle whose goodness you have most unwarrantably and unfeelingly abused has given birth to an investigation by which I have arrived at the discovery of the long course of rapacity by which you have pillaged from the same source Henceforth you will find it dry I have stated to my brother the mistake of his compliance and obtained his solemn word that all intercourse between you that has not my previous approbation shall here finally cease You will now therefore empty no more those coffers which but for you have only been opened to the just claims of benevolence
You will regard this detection as the wrath of illfortune I view it on the contrary as the mercy of Providence What were further pecuniary exonerations but deeper plunges into vilifying dissoluteness If as you intimate the refusal of your present demands will expose you to public shame may its shock awaken feelings that may restore you to private virtue I cannot spare you from disgrace by aiding you in corruption I cannot rescue you from worldly dishonour by hiding and abetting crimes that may unfold to eternal misery To errour I would be lenient to penitence I would be consoling to reformation I would open my arms but to him who confesses his guilt only to save himself from punishment to him who would elude the incurred penalties of his wickedness by shamelessly soliciting a respectable old relation to use bribery for its concealment—to him I can only say since all precepts of virtue have failed to shew thee its excellence go learn of misfortune the evils at least of vice Pay to the laws of society what retribution they require for their violation—and if suffering should lead to contrition and seclusion from the world bring thee back to rectitude then thou mayst find again thy father
Augustus Tyrold
Another name I mention not I present not to this sullied page an image of such purity yet if thy own thoughts dare paint it to thy view will not thy heart O Lionel smite thee and say—From her native land from her sorrowing husband from daughters just opening into life by my follies and indiscretions I have driven my mother—by my guilt I shall make her blush to return to them—
Camilla wept over this letter till its characters were almost effaced by her tears To withhold from her father the knowledge of the misconduct of Lionel what had she not suffered what not sacrificed yet to find it all unavailing to find him thus informed of his sons wanton calls for money his culpable connection and his just fears of seeing it published and punished—and to consider with all this that Edgar through these unpardonable deviations from right was irretrievably lost to her excited sorrow the most depressing for her father and regrets scarce supportable for herself
Well cried Lionel what do you think of my case now Dont you allow I pay pretty handsomely for a mere young mans gambol I assure you I dont know what might have been the consequence if Jacob had not afforded me a little comfort He told me you were going to be married to squire Mandlebert and that you were all at Southton and that he was sure you would do any thing in the world to get me out of jeopardy and so thinking pretty much the same myself here I am Well what say you Camilla Will you speak a little word for me to Edgar
Shame now taking place of affliction stopt her tears which dried upon her burning cheeks as she answered He is well known to you Lionel—you can address him yourself
No thats your mistake my dear I have a little odd money matter to settle with him already and besides we have had a sort of a falling out upon the subject for when I spoke to him about it last he gave himself the airs of an old justice of the peace and said if he did not find the affair given up nothing should induce him ever to help me again What a mere codger that lad has turned out
Ah noble Edgar just highprincipled and firm half pronounced Camilla while again the icicles dissolved and trickled down her face
See but the different way in which things strike people however it is not very pretty in you Camilla to praise him for treating me so scurvily But come dost think hell lend me the money
Lend repeated she significantly
Ay lend for I shall pay it every farthing and every thing else
And how And when
Why—with old unky Relvils fortune
For shame brother
Nay nay you know as well as I do I must have it at last Who else has he to leave it to Come will you beg the three hundred for me He dare not refuse you you know in your day of power
Lionel cried she with extreme emotion I shall see him no more nor perhaps may you—He has left England
Impossible why Jacob told me unky was working night and day at preparations for your keeping the wedding at Cleves
I cannot talk upon this subject I must beseech you to reserve your enquiries for Eugenia
I must go to her then directly I have not a moment to lose If you wont make Edgar help me in this business—and I know he wont do it of his own accord I am utterly done up There will remain but one single thing for me So now for my roquelo But do only tell me Camilla if you ever knew such a poor unlucky wight for before I came to you certain it would not be easy to make that young prig do any thing he had already declared against I found out cousin Clermont What a handsome coxcomb that is Well I told him my case for one young fellow soon comprehends the difficulties of another and begged him to ask for the money of uncle Hugh as if for himself telling him that as he was a newcomer and a new beginner he could not so readily be refused and promising to serve him as good a turn myself when he had got a little into our ways and wanted it with my good uncle Relvil Well what do you think was the next news Its enough to make a mans hair stand on end to see what a spite fortune has taken to me Do you know he has got debts of his own of one sort or another that poor unky has never heard of to the amount of upwards of a thousand pounds
He then muffled himself up and departed
CHAPTER V
A Self-dissection
Camilla remained in a state of accumulated distress that knew not upon what object most to dwell her father shocked and irritated beyond the mild endurance of his character her brother wantonly sporting with his familys honour and his own morals and reputation her uncle preparing for nuptials broken off without his knowledge Edgar by a thousand perversities of accident of indiscretion of misunderstanding for ever parted from her—rushed all together upon her mind each combating for precedence each individually foiled yet all collectively triumphant Nor were even these her sole subjects of affliction yet another cause was added in debts contracted from mingled thoughtlessness inexperience and generosity augmented to she knew not what sum and to be paid by she knew not what means And this topic which in itself seemed to her the least interesting soon by the circumstances with which it was connected grew the most pressing of any How at a moment like this could she make her purposed confession to her father whose wounded mind demanded all she could offer of condolement How call upon her uncle to be responsible for what she owed when she now knew the enormous accounts preparing for him from Clermont of which he was himself yet uninformed
Lionel soon returned So its really all off he cried dame Fortune methinks has a mind to give me a taste of her art that I shant easily forget Eugenia would tell me no particulars But since things are thus there is only one step left for poor Pillgarlick I must whisk over to the Continent
To the Continent without consulting my father without—
My father—Why you see he gives me up He thinks—I thank him—a little wholesome discipline will do me good Dont you understand what he means by seclusion from the world A prison my dear a gaol However Im not quite of that opinion I really think a mans as well off in a little open air So fare thee well child As soon as ever my dear uncle Relvil says good night Ill come home again and wish you all good morning
Lionel Lionel—
Well well I know its very wrong and all that so say nothing Dont distress me I beg for I hate to be hipped Besides old Relvil dont deserve much better why cant he behave like a man and settle an annuity upon himself and an old servant and a dog and a cat and a parrot and then let an honest young fellow see a little of the world handsomely and like a gentleman But your bachelor uncles and maiden aunts are the most tantalizing fellows and fellowesses in the creation
He then kissed her and was going but earnestly detaining him she conjured that he would let her first hint his design to their father that at least it might be set aside if it would still more deeply disturb him
No child no I know his way of reasoning already He thinks every man should pay for what he owes either with money or stripes Now my poor dear little body is not of that opinion And what would they get by having me shut up in prison And Ill defy em to cast me in any other damages Ive a few debts too of my own that make me a little uneasy I dont mean to trades people they can wait well enough our credit is good but a man looks horrid small walking about when he cant pay his debts of honour However when I disappear perhaps my father will take compassion upon my character If not the Relvil estate shall wipe off all in the long run
And is it possible Lionel thus lightly thus negligently thus unmoved you can plan such a journey such an exile
Why what can I do what can I possibly do I am obliged to be off in my own defence Unless indeed I marry little Miss Dennel which I have once or twice thought of for shes a monstrous fool But then she is very rich How should you like her for a sister Nay nay Im serious Dont shake your head as if I was joking What do you think of her for my spouse
She is a good girl I believe Lionel though a simple one and I should be sorry to see her unhappy and how could either of you be otherwise with contempt such as this
Bless thy heart my little dear what have husbands and wives to do with making one another unhappy Prithee dont set about forming thy notions of married people from the parsonagehouse and conclude a wife no better than a real rib sticking always close to a mans side You grow so horrid sententious I really begin to believe you intend to take out your diploma soon and put on the surplice my father meant for his poor son
Alas Lionel—how changed how hard—forgive me if I say how hard must you be grown to be capable of gaiety and rattle at this period
Youll die an old maid Camilla take my word for it And Im really sorry for youre not an ugly girl You might have been got off But come dont look so melancholy at a little silly sport The world is so full of sorrow my dear girl so little visited by happiness that cheerfulness is almost as necessary as existence in such a vale of tears
What can induce you to laugh Lionel at such words
I cant help it faith I was thinking I spoke so like a parsons son
Camilla cast up her eyes and hands Lionel she cried what have you done with your heart has it banished every natural feeling has the affecting letter of the best of fathers his cruel separation from the most excellent of mothers and even your own dreadfully censurable conduct served but to amuse you with ridicule and derision
Camilla cried he taking her hands you wrong me you think I have no feeling because I am not always crying However shall I tell you the truth I hate myself and so completely hate myself at this moment that I dare not be grave dare not suffer reflection to take hold of me lest it should make life too odious for me to bear it I have run on from folly to wickedness for want of thought and now thought is ready to come back I must run from that for want of fortitude What has bewitched me I know no more than you but I never meant to play this abominable part And now if I did not flog up my spirits to prevent their flagging I suppose I should hang or drown And believe me if I were condemned to the galleys I should think it less than I deserve for I hate myself I repeat—I honour my father though I have used him so ill I love my mother—for all her deuced severity—to the bottom of my soul I would cut off my left arm for Lavinia and Eugenia and for thee Camilla I would lop off my right—But yet when some frolic or gambol comes into my way I forget you all clear out of my memory you all walk as if I had never beheld you
Camilla now embraced him with a deluge of tears entreated him to forgive the asperity his seeming want of all feeling had drawn from her and frequently to write to her and acquaint her how he went on and send his direction for her answers that so at least their father might know how he employed himself and have the power to give him counsel
But how my poor Lionel she added how will you live abroad How will you even travel
Why as to how I shall live there I dont know but as well as I deserve easily however as to how I shall get there look here taking from his pocket a handful of guineas that good little Eugenia has given me every thing even to the last half crown that she had at Southampton to help me forward
Dear excellent ever generous Eugenia O that I could follow her example but alas I have nothing—and worse than nothing
They then affectionately embraced each other and parted
CHAPTER VI
A Reckoning
What Camilla experienced at this juncture she believed inadmissible of aggravation Even the breaking off with Edgar seemed as a new misfortune from the new force which circumstances gave to its affliction With his sympathising aid how might she have softened the sorrows of her father how have broken the shock of the blow Clermont was preparing for her uncle But now instead of lessening their griefs she must herself inflict upon them a heavier evil than any they had yet suffered And how could she reveal tidings for which they were so wholly unprepared how be even intelligible in the history without exposing the guilty Lionel beyond all chance of pardon
Again she went to counsel with Eugenia who with her usual disinterested affection proposed taking the painful business upon herself at their return home Camilla with tears of gratitude accepted the sisterly office and resolved to devote the rest of her short time for Southampton to Mrs Berlinton who shocked to see her evident unhappiness hung over her with the most melting tenderness bewailing alike the disappointment of Eugenia and the conduct of her brother who now with exquisite misery shut himself wholly up in his room
This compassionate kindness somewhat softened her anguish but when the engagements of Mrs Berlinton called her away Mrs Mittin burst briskly into her chamber
Well my dear cried she I come with better news now than ever only guess what it is
Nothing could less conduce to the tranquillity of Camilla than such a desire her conjectures always flowed into the channels of her wishes and she thought immediately that Mrs Mittin had been informed of her situation and came to her with some intelligence of Edgar
Mrs Mittin after keeping her a full quarter of an hour in suspence at last said Do you know Miss Dennels going to be married—though she was fifteen only yesterday—and I am invited to the wedding
No surprise had ever yet produced less pleasure to Camilla who now ceased to listen though Mrs Mittin by no means ceased to speak till her attention was awakened by the following sentence So as I am to go to town to shop with her at her own papas desire you can give me the money you know my dear and I can pay off your Tunbridge bills for you
She then took out of her pockets some accounts which she said she had just received though in fact they had been in her possession more than a week but till the invitation of Miss Dennel called her so pleasantly away she had thought it prudent to keep every motive in reserve that added importance to her stay
Camilla with the utmost apprehension took the papers into her hands they were the bills from Tunbridge of the milliner the shoemaker the haberdasher and the glover and amounted altogether to sixteen pounds
The chief articles had been nearly forced upon her by Mrs Mittin with assurances of their cheapness and representations of their necessity that joined to her entire ignorance of the enormous charges of fashion had led her to imagine four or five guineas the utmost sum at which they could be estimated
What now then was her horror if to sixteen pounds amounted the trifles she had had at Tunbridge what calculation must she make of articles so infinitely more valuable that belonged to her debts at Southampton And to whom now could she apply The unhappy situation of her father was no longer an only reason to forbear such a call upon him Lionel still under age was flying the kingdom with debts which be they small as they might would to Mr Tyrolds limited income be as heavy as the more considerable ones of her cousin upon Sir Hugh yet who besides could give her aid Eugenia whose yearly allowance according to her settled future fortune was five times that of her sisters had given what help she had in her power before she quitted Cleves upon the affair of the horse and all that remained of a considerable present made for her Southampton expedition by her uncle who in every thing distinguished her as his successor and heiress she had just bestowed upon Lionel even as he had declared to her last half crown Mrs Berlinton whose tender friendship might in this emergence have encouraged solicitation was involved in debts of honour and wanted money for herself and to Mrs Arlbery her only other acquaintance rich enough to give assistance and with whom she was intimate enough to ask it she already owed five guineas and how in conscience or decency could she address her for so much more when she saw before her no time no term upon which she could fix for restitution
In this terrible state with no one to counsel her and no powers of self-judgment she felt a dread of going home that rendered the coming day a day of horror though to a home to which hitherto she had turned as the first joy of her happiness or softest solace of any disturbance Her filial affections were in their pristine force her short commerce with the world had robbed them of none of their vivacity her regard for Edgar whom she delighted to consider as a younger Mr Tyrold had rather enlarged than divided them but to return a burthen to an already burthened house an affliction to an already afflicted parent—No she broke out aloud I cannot go home—I cannot carry calamity to my father—He will be mild—but he will look unhappy and I would not see his face in sorrow—sorrow of my own creating—for years of after joy
She threw herself down upon the bed hid her face with the counterpane and wept in desperate carelessness of the presence of Mrs Mittin and answering nothing that she said
In affairs of this sort Mrs Mittin had a quickness of apprehension which though but the attribute of ready cunning was not inferior to the keenest penetration possessed for deeper investigations by characters of more solid sagacity From the fear which Camilla in her anguish had uttered of seeing her father she gathered there must be some severe restriction in money concerns and without troubling herself to consider what they might be saw that to aid her at this moment would be the highest obligation and immediately set at work a brain as fertile in worldly expedients as it was barren of intellectual endowments in forming a plan of present relief which she concluded would gain her a rich and powerful friend for life
She was not long in suggesting a proposition, which Camilla started up eagerly to hear almost breathless with the hope of any reprieve to her terrors
Mrs Mittin amongst her numerous friends counted a Mr Clykes a moneylender a man she said of the first credit for such matters with people of fashion in any difficulty If Camilla therefore would collect her debts this gentleman would pay them for a handsome premium and handsome interest till she was able at her own full leisure to return the principal with a proper present
Camilla nearly embraced her with rapture for this scheme The premium she would collect as she could and the interest she would pay from her allowance certain that when her uncle was cleared from his embarrassments her own might be revealed without any serious distress She put therefore the affair wholly into the hands of Mrs Mittin besought her the next morning to demand all her Southampton bills to add to them those for the rent and the stores of Higden and then to transact the business with Mr Clykes promising to agree to whatever premium interest and present he should demand with endless acknowledgments to herself for so great a service
She grieved to employ a person so utterly disagreeable to Edgar but to avert immediate evil was ever resistless to her ardent mind
The whole of the Southampton accounts were brought her early the next morning by the active Mrs Mittin who now concluded that what she had conceived to be covetousness in Camilla was only the fear of a hard tyrant of a father who kept her so parsimoniously that she could allow herself no indulgence till the death of her uncle should endow her with her own rich inheritance
Had this arrangement not taken place before the arrival of the bills Camilla upon beholding them thought she should have been driven to complete distraction The earrings and necklace silver fringes and spangles feathers nosegay and shoeroses with the other parts of the dress and the fine Valencienne edging came to thirtythree pounds The cloak also that cheapest thing in the world was nine guineas and various small articles which Mrs Mittin had occasionally brought in and others with which Camilla could not dispense came to another five pounds To this the rent for Higden added eighteen and the bill of stores which had been calculated at thirty was sent in at thirtyseven
The whole therefore with the sixteen pounds from Tunbridge amounted to one hundred and eighteen pounds nine shillings
Struck to the very soul with the idea of what she must have endured to have presented at such a period so large an account either at Cleves or at Etherington she felt lifted into paradise by the escape of this expedient and lost sight of every possible future difficulty in the relief of avoiding so severe a present penalty
By this means also the tradesmen would not wait and she had been educated with so just an abhorrence of receiving the goods and benefiting from the labours of others without speeding them their rights and their rewards that she felt despicable as well as miserable when she possessed what she had not repaid
Mrs Mittin was now invested with full powers for the agency which her journey to London would give her immediate means to execute She was to meet Miss Dennel there in two days to assist in the wedding purchases and then to accompany that young lady to her fathers house in Hampshire whence she could visit Etherington and finally arrange the transaction
Camilla again thanking took leave of her to consign her few remaining hours to Mrs Berlinton who was impatient at losing one moment of the society she began sincerely to regret she had not more uniformly preferred to all other As sad now with cares as Camilla was with afflictions she had robbed her situation of nearly the only good which belonged to it—an affluent power to gratify every luxury whether of generosity or personal indulgence Her gaming to want of happiness added now want of money and Camilla with a sigh saw something more wretched because far deeper and more wilful in error than herself
They mingled their tears for their separate personal evils with the kindest consolation that either could suggest for the other till Camilla was told that Eugenia desired to see her in the parlour
Mrs Berlinton ashamed yet delighted to meet her again went down at the same time She embraced her with fondness but ventured not to utter either apology or concern Eugenia was serious but composed sighed often yet both accepted and returned her caresses
Camilla enquired if Miss Margland expected them immediately
Yes she answered but I have first a little business of my own to transact Then turning to Mrs Berlinton and forcing a smile You will be surprised she said to hear me ask for your brother but I must see him before I can leave Southampton
Mrs Berlinton hung her head There is certainly she cried no reproach he does not merit yet if you knew the respect the the
Eugenia rang the bell making a slight apology but not listening to what Mrs Berlinton strove to say who colouring and uneasy still attempted to utter something softening to what had passed
Be so good said Eugenia when the footman appeared to tell Mr Melmond I beg to speak with him
Camilla astonished and Mrs Berlinton silenced waited in an unpleasant pause the event
Eugenia absorbed in thought neither spoke to nor looked at them nor moved till the door opened and Melmond who durst not refuse so direct a summons though he would have preferred any punishment to obeying it blushing bowing and trembling entered the room
She then started half heaved and half checked a sigh took a folded note out of her pocketbook and with a faint smile said I fear my desire must have been painful to you but you see me now for the last time—I hope—with any illwill
She stopt for breath to go on Melmond amazed striving vainly to articulate one word of excuse one profession even of respect
Believe me Sir she then continued surprise was the last sensation I experienced upon a late transaction My extraordinary personal defects and deformity have been some time known to me though—I cannot tell how—I had the weakness or vanity not to think of them as I ought to have done—But I see I give you uneasiness and therefore I will be more concise
Melmond confounded had bowed down his head not to look at her while Camilla and Mrs Berlinton both wept
The sentiments Sir she then went on of my cousin have never been declared to me but it is not very difficult to me to divine what they may be All that is certain is the unkindness of Fortune which forbids her to listen or you to plead to them This Sir shall be my care—she stopt a moment looking paler and wanting voice but presently recovering proceeded—my happiness let me say to endeavour to rectify I have much influence with my kind uncle can I doubt when I represent to him that I have just escaped making two worthy people wretched he will deny aiding me to make them happy No the residence already intended at Cleves will still be open though one of its parties will be changed But as my uncle in a manner unexampled has bound himself in my favour from any future disposition of what he possesses I have ventured Sir upon this paper to obviate any apprehensions of your friends for the unhappy time when that generous uncle can no longer act for himself
She then unfolded and gave him the paper which contained these words
I here solemnly engage myself if Miss Indiana Lynmere accepts with the consent of Sir Hugh Tyrold the hand of Frederic Melmond to share with them so united whatever fortune or estate I may be endowed with to the end of my life and to bequeath them the same equal portion by will after my death
Signed Eugenia Tyrold
Unable to read yet conceiving the purport of the writing Melmond was at her feet She endeavoured to raise him and though extremely affected said with an air of some pleasantry Shew less surprise Sir or I shall conclude you thought me as frightful within as without But no Providence is too good to make the mind necessarily deformed with the body
Ah Madam exclaimed Melmond wholly overcome the noblest as well as softest of human hearts I perceive to be yours——and were mine at my own disposal—it must find you resistless—
No more no more interrupted she penetrated with a pleasure in these words which she durst not indulge you shall hear from me soon—Meanwhile be Hope your motto Friendship shall be mine
She was then going to hold out her hand to him but her courage failed she hastily embraced Mrs Berlinton took the arm of Camilla and hurried out of the house followed by the footman who had attended her
Melmond who had seen the motion of her hand now advancing now withdrawn would have given the universe to have stamped upon it his grateful reverence but his courage was still less than her own she seemed to him on the sudden transformed to a deity benignly employed to rescue and bless him but whose transcendent goodness he could only at a distance and in all humility adore
Mrs Berlinton was left penetrated nearly as much as her brother and doubtful if even the divine Indiana could render him as happy as the exalted the incomparable Eugenia
The two sisters found Miss Margland in extreme illhumour waiting their arrival and the whole party immediately quitted Southampton
It not seldom occurred to Miss Margland to be cross merely as a mark of consequence but here the displeasure was as deep with herself as with others She had entered Southampton with a persuasion her fair pupil would make there the establishment so long the promised mede of her confinement and Indiana herself not knowing where to stop her sanguine and inflated hopes imagined that the fame of her beauty would make the place where it first was exhibited the resort of all of fashion in the nation And the opening of the scene had answered to their fullest expectations no other name was heard but Indiana Lynmere no other figure was admired no other face could bear examination
But her triumph though splendid was short she soon found that the overtures of eyes were more ready than those of speech and though one young baronet enchanted with her beauty immediately professed himself her lover when he was disdained in the full assurance of higher offers and because a peer had addressed himself to Eugenia she saw not that he was succeeded by any other nor yet that he broke his own heart Men of taste after the first conversation found her more admirable to look at than speak with adventurers soon discovered that her personal charms were her only dower the common herd were repulsed from approaching her by the repulsive manners of Miss Margland and all evinced that though a passion for beauty was still as fashionable as it was natural the time was past when the altar of Hymen required no other incense to blaze upon it
The governess therefore and the pupil quitted Southampton with equal disappointment and indignation the first foreseeing another long and yawning sojourn at Cleves the second firmly believing herself the most unaccountably illused person in the creation that one offer only had reached her and that without repetition though admired nearly to adoration she literally rather than metaphorically conceived herself a demigoddess
One solitary offer to Eugenia of an every way ruined young nobleman though a blast both to the settlement and the peace of Indiana was to herself wholly nugatory Intent at that period upon dedicating for ever to Melmond her virgin heart she was sorry upon his account for the application but gave it not upon her own a moments consideration This proposition was made upon her first arrival and was followed by no other She was then by the account given to the master of the ceremonies by Miss Margland regarded as the heiress of Cleves but almost immediately after the report spread by Mrs Mittin that Camilla was the true heiress gained such ground amongst the shopkeepers and thence travelled so rapidly from gossip to gossip and house to house that Eugenia was soon no more thought of though a species of doubt was cast upon the whole party from the double assertion that kept off from Camilla also the fortune seekers of the place
But another rumour got abroad that soon entirely cleared Eugenia not merely of lovers but acquaintances namely her studies with Dr Orkborne This was a prevailing theme of spite with Miss Margland when the Doctor had neglected and displeased her and a topic always at hand for her spleen when it was angered by other circumstances not so easy of blame or of mention
This shortly made Eugenia stared at still more than her peculiar appearance The misses in tittering ran away from the learned lady the beaux contemptuously sneering rejoiced she was too ugly to take in any poor fellow to marry her Some imagined her studies had stinted her growth and all were convinced her education had made her such a fright
Of the whole party the only one who quitted Southampton in spirits was Dr Orkborne He was delighted to be no longer under the dominion of Miss Margland who though she never left him tranquil in the possession of all he valued his leisure and his books and papers eternally annoyed him with reproaches upon his absence nonattendance and ignorance of high life asking always when angry If any one had ever heard who was his grandfather
The doctor in return despising like most who have it not whatever belonged to noble birth regarded her and her progenitors as the pest of the human race frequently when incensed by interruption exclaiming Where intellect is uncultivated what is man better than a brute or woman than an idiot
Nor was his return to his own room books and hours under the roof of the indulgent Sir Hugh the only relief of this removal he knew not of the previous departure of Dr Marchmont and he was glad to quit a spot where he was open to a comparison which he felt to be always to his disadvantage
So much more powerful and more prominent is character than education that no two men could be more different than Dr Marchmont and Dr Orkborne though the same university had finished their studies and the same passion pursuit and success in respect to learning had raised and had spread their names and celebrity The first with all his scholastic endowments was a man of the world and a grace to society the second though in erudition equally respectable was wholly lost to the general community and alive only with his pen and his books They enjoyed indeed in common that happy and often sole reward of learned labours the privilege of snatching some care from time some repining from misfortune by seizing for themselves and their own exclusive use the whole monopoly of mind but they employed it not to the same extension The things and people of this lower sphere were studiously by Dr Orkborne sunk in oblivion by the domineering prevalence of the alternate transport and toil of intellectual occupation Dr Marchmont on the contrary though his education led to the same propensities still held his fellow creatures to be of higher consideration than their productions Without such extravagance in the pursuit of his studies he knew it the happy province of literary occupations where voluntary to absorb worldly solicitudes and banish for a while even mental anxieties and though the charm may be broken by every fresh intrusion of calamity it unites again with the first retirement and without diminishing the feelings of social life has a power from time to time to set aside their sufferings
CHAPTER VII
Brides and no Brides
In the hall of the Cleves mansion the party from Southampton were received by Sir Hugh Mr Tyrold and Lavinia The baronet greeted in particular the two nieces he regarded as brides elect with an elation that prevented him from observing their sadness while their confusion at his mistake he attributed to the mere bashfulness of their situation He enquired nevertheless with some surprise why the two bridegrooms did not attend them which he owned he thought rather odd though he supposed it might be only the new way
The changing colour and starting tears of the two sisters still escaped his kindly occupied but undiscerning eyes while Mr Tyrold having tenderly embraced avoided looking at them from the fear of adding to their blushes and sat quiet and grave striving to alleviate his present new and deep sorrow by participating in the revived happiness of his brother But Lavinia soon saw their mutual distress and with apprehensive affection watched an opportunity to investigate its cause
But come cried Sir Hugh I shant wait for those gentlemen to shew you what Ive done for you seeing they dont wait for me by their following their own way which however I suppose they may be with their lawyers none of those gentleman having been here which I think rather slow considering the rooms are almost ready
He would now have taken them round the house but nearly expiring with shame they entreated to be excused and insupportably oppressed by the cruel discovery they had to divulge stole apart to consult upon what measures they should take They then settled that Camilla should accompany Mr Tyrold to Etherington but keep off all disclosure till the next morning when Eugenia would arrive and unfold the sad tidings
When they returned to the parlour they found Sir Hugh in the innocency of his heart had forced Indiana Miss Margland and even Dr Orkborne to view his improvements for the expected nuptials judging the disinterestedness of their pleasure by his own though to the two ladies nothing could be less gratifying than preparations for a scene in which they were to bear no part and the Doctor thought every evil genius at work to detain him from his study and his manuscripts
But whats the oddest cried the Baronet of all is nobodys coming for poor Indiana which I could never have expected especially in the point of taking off little Eugenia first whom her own cousin did not think pretty enough which I can never think over and above good natured in him being so difficult However I hope we shall soon forget that now for which reason I forgive him
Indiana was so much piqued she could scarce refrain from relating the portico history at Lord Pervils but the Baronet not remarking her discomposure turned to Camilla and Eugenia smilingly exclaiming Well my dear girls I shant mention what we have been looking at in your absence because of your blushes which I hope you approve But we shall soon I hope see it all together without any of your modestys minding it I shall have to pinch a little for it the rest of the year which God knows will be a pleasure to me for the sake of my two dear girls as well as of Mr Edgar not to mention the new young gentleman who seems a pretty kind of person too though he is not one of our own relations
He was rather disappointed when he found Camilla was to go to Etherington but desired there might be a general meeting the next day when he should also invite Dr Marchmont For I think said he hes as little proud as the best dunce amongst us which makes me like him as well And I cant say but I was as much obliged to him that day about the mad bull as if he had been one of my nephews or nieces himself which is what I shant forget
In the way back to Etherington Camilla could scarce utter a word and Lavinia who had just gathered from her in a whisper All is over with Edgar with divided but silent pity looked from her father to her sister thought of her brother and wept for all three Mr Tyrold alone was capable of any exertion Unwilling to give Camilla whom he concluded impressed with the thousand solicitudes of her impending change of situation any abrupt account of her brothers cruel conduct he spoke with composure though not with cheerfulness and hoped by a general gravity to prepare without alarming her for the ill news he must inevitably relate But he soon however observed an excess of sadness upon her countenance far deeper than what he could attribute to the thoughts he had first suggested and wholly different from an agitation in which though fear bears a part hope preponderates
It now struck him that probably Lionel had been at Southampton for so wide was every idea from supposing any mischief with Edgar that like Sir Hugh upon his nonappearance he had concluded him engaged with his lawyer But of Melmond less sure he had been more open in enquiry and with inexpressible concern for his beloved and unfortunate Eugenia gathered that the affair was ended though her succeeding plan by her own desire Camilla left for her own explanation
When they arrived at Etherington taking her into his study Camilla he said tell me I beg do you know anything of Lionel
An unrestrained burst of tears convinced him his conjecture was right and he soon obtained all the particulars of the meeting except its levity and flightiness Where directly questioned no sisterly tenderness could induce her to filial prevarication but she rejoiced to spare her brother all exposure that mere silence could spare and as Mr Tyrold suspected not her former knowledge of his extravagance and ill conduct he neither asked nor heard any thing beyond the last interview
At the plan of going abroad he sighed heavily but would take no measures to prevent it Lionel he saw was certain of being cast in any trial and though he would not stretch out his arm to avert the punishment he thought deserved he was not sorry to change the languid waste of imprisonment at home for the hardships with which he might live upon little abroad
A calamity such as this seemed cause full sufficient for the distress of Camilla Mr Tyrold sought no other but though she wept now at liberty his very freedom from suspicion and enquiry increased her anguish Your happy fate cried he is what most at this moment supports me and to that I shall chiefly owe the support of your mother whom a blow such as this will more bitterly try than the loss of our whole income or even than the life itself of your brother Her virtue is above misfortune but her soul will shudder at guilt
The horror of Camilla was nearly intolerable at this speech and the dreadful disappointment which she knew yet to be awaiting her loved parents Take comfort my dearest girl said Mr Tyrold who saw her suffering it is yours for all our sakes to be cheerful for to you we shall owe the worthiest of sons at the piercing juncture when the weakest and most faulty fails us
O my father she cried speak not such words Lionel himself she was going to say has made you less unhappy than you will be made by me but she durst not finish her phrase she turned away from him her streaming eyes and stopt
My dearest child he cried let not your rising prospects be thus dampt by this cruel event The connection you have formed will be a consolation to us all It binds to us for life a character already so dear to us it will afford to our Lavinia should we leave her single a certain asylum it will give to our Eugenia a counsellor that may save her hereafter from fraud and ruin it may aid poor Lionel when some time hence he returns to his country to return to the right path whence so widely he has strayed and it will heal with lenient balm the wounded bleeding bosom of a meritorious but deeply afflicted mother While to your father my Camilla
These last words were not heard such a mention of her mother had already overpowered her and unable to let him keep up his delusion she supported her shaking frame against his shoulder and exclaimed in a tone of agony O my father you harrow me to the soul—Edgar has left me—has left England—left us all—
Shocked yet nearly incredulous he insisted upon looking at her her countenance impelled belief The woe it expressed could be excited by nothing less than the deprivation of every worldly expectation and a single glance was an answer to a thousand interrogatories
Mr Tyrold now sat down with an air between calmness and despondence saying And how has this come to pass
Again she got behind him and in a voice scarce audible said Eugenia would the next morning explain all
Very well I will wait he quietly but with palpably stifled emotions answered Go my love go to Lavinia open to her your heart you will find consolation in her kindness My own I confess is now weighed down with sorrow this last and unexpected stroke will demand some time some solitude to be yielded to as it ought He then held out to her his hand which she could scarcely approach from trembling and scarcely kiss for weeping and added I know what you feel for me—and know too that my loss to yours is nothing—for yours is not to be estimated you are young however and with yourself it may pass away but your mother—my heart Camilla is rent for your unfortunate mother
He then embraced her called Lavinia and retired for the night
Terribly it passed with them all
The next morning before they assembled to breakfast Eugenia was in the chamber of Camilla
She entered with a bright beam upon her countenance which in defiance of the ravaging distemper that had altered her gave it an expression almost celestial It was the pure emanation of virtue of disinterested of even heroic virtue Camilla she cried all is settled with my uncle Indiana you will not wonder—consents and already this morning I have written to Mr Mel
With all her exaltation her voice faltered at the name and with a faint smile but deep blush she called for the congratulations of her sister upon her speedy success
Ah far more than my congratulations my esteem my veneration is yours dear and generous Eugenia true daughter of my mother and proudest recompence of my father
She was not sufficiently serene to give any particulars of the transaction and Mr Tyrold soon sent for her to his room
Camilla trembling and hanging over her said You will do for me I know better than I could do for myself—but spare poor Lionel—and be just to Edgar—
Eugenia strictly obeyed in sparing Lionel she spared also her father whom his highly unfeeling behaviour with regard to Sir Sedley would yet further have incensed and grieved and in doing justice to Edgar she flattered herself she prevented an alienation from one yet destined to be nearly allied to him since time she still hoped would effect the reconciliation of Camilla with the youth whom—next to Melmond—she thought the most amiable upon earth
Mr Tyrold by this means gathered no further intelligence than that they had parted upon some mutual though slight dissatisfaction He hoped therefore with Eugenia they might soon meet again and resolved till he could better judge what might prove the event to keep this distress from Sir Hugh
He then met Camilla with the most consolatory kindness yet would not trust her ardent mind with the hopes he cherished himself dreading infinitely more to give than to receive disappointment He blamed her for admitting any doubts of the true regard of Edgar in whom promise was always short of performance and whom he conceived displeased by unjust suspicions or offended by undue expectations of professions which the very sincerity of his rational and manly character prevented him from making
Camilla heard in silence suggestions she could not answer without relating the history of Sir Sedley No Lionel no she said to herself I will not now betray you I have lost all—and now the loss to me is irreparable shall I blast you yet further to my poor father whose deepest sigh is already for your misconduct
The story of Eugenia herself he learnt with true admiration and gave to her magnanimity its dearest mede in her mothers promised and his own immediate approbation
But Sir Hugh notwithstanding all Eugenia could urge in favour of Melmond had heard her account with grief and resentment All however being actually ready for the double wedding he could not he said answer to his conscience doing so much for the rest and refusing the same for Indiana whom he called upon to accept or reject the preparations made for her cousin
Indiana stood fluttering for a few minutes between the exultation of being the first bride and the mortification of marrying a man without fortune or title But the observation of Sir Hugh upon the oddity of her marrying the last she was piqued with a most earnest ambition to reverse Nor did Melmond himself go for nothing in this affair as all she had of heart he had been the first to touch
She retired for a short conference with Miss Margland who was nearly in an equal dilemma from unwillingness to dispose of her beautiful pupil without a title and from eagerness to quit Cleves which she thought a convent for dullness and a prison for confinement Melmond had strongly in his favour the received maxim amongst matchmakers that a young lady without fortune has a less and less chance of getting off upon every public appearance which they call a public failure their joint deliberations were however interrupted by an abrupt intrusion of Molly Mill who announced she had just heard that Miss Dennel was going to be married
This information ended the discussion The disgrace of a bridal appearance anticipated in the neighbourhood by such a chit made Indiana hastily run down stairs and tell her uncle that the merit of Melmond determined her to refuse every body for his sake
A man and horse therefore at break of day the next morning was sent off by Eugenia to Southampton with these words
To Frederic Melmond Esq
You will be welcome Sir at Cleves where you will forget I hope every painful sensation in the happiness which awaits you and dismiss all retrospection to return with sincerity the serene friendship of
Eugenia Tyrold
Mr Tyrold now visited Cleves with only his younger daughter and excused the nonappearance there for the present of Camilla acknowledging that some peculiar incidents which he could not yet explain kept Mandlebert away and must postpone the celebration of the marriage
The vexation this gave Sir Hugh redoubled his anxiety to break to him the evil by degrees if to break it to him at all should become indispensable
CHAPTER VIII
A Hint for Debtors
Mr Tyrold was well aware that to keep from Sir Hugh the affliction of Camilla he must keep from him Camilla herself for though her sighs she could suppress and her tears disperse her voice had lost its tone her countenance its gaiety her eyes no longer sparkled her very smiles betrayed anguish He was the last to wonder at her sufferings for Edgar was nearly as dear to him as herself but he knew not that added to this annihilation of happiness her peace was consumed by her secret knowledge of the blows yet impending for himself and for her uncle Concealment always abhorrent to her nature had till now been unknown even to her thoughts and its weight from a species of culpability that seemed attached to its practice was at times more dreadful to bear than the loss even of Edgar himself The latter blackened every prospect of felicity but the former, still more tremendous to the pure principles in which she had been educated seemed to strike even at her innocence The first wish of an ingenuous mind is to anticipate even enquiry the feeling therefore that most heavily weighs it down is any fear of detection
While they were at breakfast the following morning the servant brought in the name of Dr Marchmont
Camilla felt nearly fainting Why he was come—whence—whether Edgar accompanied him—or sent by him any message—whether he were returned to Beech Park—or sailed for the Continent——were doubts that pressed so fast and so vehemently upon her mind that she feared to quit the room lest she should meet Edgar in the passage and feared still more to continue in it lest Dr Marchmont should enter without him Mr Tyrold who participated in all her feelings and shared the same ideas gently committed her to Lavinia and went into his study to the doctor
His own illusion was there quickly destroyed The looks of Dr Marchmont boded nothing that was happy They wore not their customary expression The gravity of Mr Tyrold shewed a mind prepared for ill news if not already oppressed with it and the doctor after a few general speeches delivered the letter from Edgar
Mr Tyrold received it with a secret shuddering Where he said is Mandlebert at present
I believe by this time—at the Hague
This sentence with the grieved yet still air and tone of voice which accompanied it was death at once to every flattering hope he immediately read the letter which conceived in the tenderest terms of reverence and affection took a short and simple though touchingly respectful leave of the purposed connection and demolished at once every distant view of future conciliation
He hung his head a moment and sighed from the bottom of his heart but the resignation which he summoned upon every sorrow was never deaf to his call and when he had secretly ejaculated a short and silent prayer for fortitude to his beloved wife he turned calmly to the doctor and began conversing upon other affairs
Dr Marchmont presumed not to manifest the commiseration with which he was filled He saw the true Christian enduring with humility misfortune and the respectable parent supporting the dignity of his daughter by his own To the first character complaint was forbidden to the second it would have been degrading He looked at him with veneration but to spare further useless and painful efforts soon took leave
Mr Tyrold shaking hands with him said as they were parting when you write to Mandlebert assure him of my constant affection The world Dr Marchmont is too full of real evil for me at least to cause one moment of unnecessary uneasiness to any of its poor pilgrims Tis strange my dear doctor this is not more generally considered since the advantage would be so reciprocal from man to man But wrapt up in our own short moment we forget our neighbours long hour and existence is ultimately embittered to all by the refined susceptibility for ourselves that monopolizes our feelings
Doctor Marchmont who in this last sentence construed a slight reflection upon Edgar expressively answered Our sensibility for others is not always dormant because not apparent How much of worth and excellence may two characters separately possess where yet there are disuniting particles which impede their harmonizing with each other
Mr Tyrold powerfully struck saw now the general nature of the conceptions which had caused this lamented breach He could not concur but he would not attempt to controvert opinion in this case must have even the precedence of justice If Edgar thought his daughter of a disposition with which his own could not sympathise it were vain to expatiate upon her virtues or her sweetness that one doubt previously taken might mar their assimilating efficacy Comprehending therefore the cause at large he desired no detail the words of Dr Marchmont though decisive were not offensive and they parted perfect friends each perceiving yet forgiving that each cast upon the other the error of false reasoning Edgar to the one and Camilla to the other appearing faultless in the separation
But not in the tasks which succeeded were their offices as easily to be compared Dr Marchmont wrote to Edgar that all was quietly relinquished and his measures were honourably acquitted while Mr Tyrold shut up in his study spent there some of the severest minutes of his life in struggling for the equanimity he coveted to pronounce to his daughter this last doom Pity for her suspence accelerated his efforts and he then sent for her down stairs
His utmost composure in such an interview was highly necessary for both The pale and trembling Camilla advanced with downcast eyes but when he took her in his arms and kissed her a sudden ray of hope shot across her quick imagination and she looked up an instant was now sufficient to rectify her mistake The tenderness of her father wore no air of congratulation it was the mere offspring of compassion and the woe with which it was mixt though mild though patient was too potent to require words for explanation
The glance sufficed her head dropt her tears in torrents bathed his bosom and she retired to Lavinia while yet neither of them had spoken
Mr Tyrold contented with virtuous exertions demanded not impossibilities he left to nature that first grief which too early exhortation or controul rather inflames than appeases He then brought her back to his apartment
He conjured her there to remember that she grieved not alone that where the tears flowed not so fast from the eyes the sources were not dry whence they sprung and that bridled sorrow was sometimes the most suffering
Alas my dearest father to think you mourn too—and for me—will that lessen what I feel
Yes my dear child by a generous duty it will point out to watch that the excess of one affliction involve you not in another
What a motive she answered for exertion If the smallest part of your happiness—of my honoured mothers—depends upon mine I shall be unhappy I think no more
A gush of tears ill accorded with this fond declaration but Mr Tyrold without noticing them kindly replied Let your filial affection my child check the inordinacy of your affliction and I will accept with pleasure for your virtuous mother and with thanks for myself the exertion which beginning for our sakes may lead you to that self denial which is the parent of our best human actions and approximates us the most to what is divine
Brokenhearted as was Camilla her sorrows would at least apparently have abated from consolation so tender if all she felt had been known if no latent and lurking evil had hung upon her spirits defeating all argument and blighting all comfort by the cruel consciousness of concealed mischief which while incessantly she studied the best moment for revealing accident might prematurely betray
Upon this subject her thoughts were unremittingly bent till in a few days time she received a letter from Mrs Mittin informing her she had just seen the moneylender Mr Clykes who finding her so much under age would not undertake the business for less than ten per cent nor without a free premium of at least twenty pounds
The latter demand so entirely out of her power to grant gave to her the mental strength she had yet sought in vain and determining to end this baneful secret she seized her own first moment of emotion to relate to her father the whole of her distresses and cast herself upon his mercy
I shall be happier she cried much happier as with tottering steps she hurried to the study he will be lenient I know—and even if not what displeasure can I incur so severe as the eternal apprehension of doing wrong
But her plan though well formed had fixed upon an illtimed moment for its execution She entered the room with an agitation which rather sought than shunned remark that some enquiry might make an opening for her confession but Mr Tyrold was intently reading a letter and examining some papers from which he raised not his eyes at her approach She stood fearfully before him till he had done but then still not looking up he leant his head upon his hand with a countenance so disturbed that alarmed from her design by the apprehension he had received some ill tidings from Lisbon she asked in a faint voice if the foreign post were come in
I hope not he answered I should look with pain at this moment upon the hand of your unhappy mother
Camilla affrighted knew not now what to conjecture but gliding into her pocket the letter of Mrs Mittin stood suspended from her purpose
What a reception he presently added is preparing for that noblest of women when her exile may end That epoch to which I have looked forward as the brightener of my every view upon earth—how is it now clouded
Giving her then the letter and papers The son he said who once I had hoped would prove the guardian of his sisters the honour of his mothers days the future prop of my own—See Camilla on how sandy a foundation mortal man builds mortal hopes
The letter was from a very respectable tradesman containing a complaint that for the three years Lionel had been at the University he had never paid one bill though he continually ordered new articles and begging Mr Tyrold would have the goodness to settle the accounts he enclosed the young gentleman after fixing a day for payment having suddenly absconded without notice to any one
The sum you see continued Mr Tyrold amounts to one hundred and seventyone pounds a sum for my income enormous The allowance I made this cruel boy was not only adequate to all his proper wants and reasonable desires but all I could afford without distressing myself or injuring my other children yet it has served him I imagine but for pocket money The immense sums he has extorted from both his uncles must have been swallowed up at a gaming table Into what wretched courses has he run These bills large as they are I regard but as forerunners of others all he has received he has squandered upon his vices and tomorrow and the next day and the next I may expect an encreasing list of his debts from his hatter his hosier his shoemaker his taylor—and whoever he has employed
Camilla overwhelmed with internal shame yet more powerful than grief itself stood motionless These expences appeared but like a second part of her own with her milliner her jeweller and her haberdasher which now seemed to herself not less wanton in extravagance
Surprised by her entire silence Mr Tyrold looked up Her cheeks rather livid than pale and the deep dismay of her countenance extremely affected him The kindness of his embraces relieved her by melting her into tears though the speech which accompanied them was to her consciousness but reproach Let not your sisterly feelings thus subdue you my dearest Camilla Be comforted that you have given us no affliction yourself save what we must feel for your own undeservedly altered prospects No unthinking imprudence no unfeeling selfishness has ever for an instant driven from your thoughts what you owe to your duty or weakened your pleasure in every endearing filial tie Let this cheer you my child and let us all try to submit calmly to our general disappointment
Praise thus illtimed rather probed than healed her wounds Am I punished am I punished She internally exclaimed but could not bear to meet the eyes of her father whose indulgence she felt as if abusing and whose good opinion seemed now but a delusion Again he made her over to the gentle Lavinia for comfort and fearing serious ill effects from added misery exerted himself from this time to appear cheerful when she was present
His predictions failed not to be fulfilled the application made by one creditor soon reached every other and urged similar measures Bills therefore came in daily with petitions for payment and as Lionel still wanted a month or two of being of age his creditors depended with confidence upon the responsibility of his father
Nor here closed the claims springing from general ill conduct Two young men of fashion hard pressed for their own failures stated to Mr Tyrold the debts of honour owing them from Lionel and three notorious gamesters who had drawn in the unthinking youth to his ruin enforced the same information with a hint that if they were left unsatisfied the credit of the young man would fall the sacrifice of their ill treatment
The absence of Mrs Tyrold at this period by sparing her daily difficulty as well as pain was rejoiced in by her husband though never so strongly had he wanted her aiding counsel her equal interest and her consoling participation Obliged to act without them his deliberation was short and decisive for his measures but long and painful for their means of execution He at once determined to pay though for the last time all the trades people but the manner of obtaining the money required more consideration
The bills when all collected amounted to something above five hundred pounds which was but one hundred short of his full yearly income
Of this he had always contrived to lay by an hundred pounds annually which sum with its accumulating interest was destined to be divided between Lavinia and Camilla Eugenia required nothing and Lionel was to inherit the paternal little fortune The portion of Mrs Tyrold which was small the estate of her father having been almost all entailed upon Mr Relvil was to be divided equally amongst her children
To take from the little hoard which with so tender a care he had heaped for the daughters so large a share for the son and to answer demands so unduly raised and ill deserved was repulsive to his inclination and shocked his strong sense of equal justice To apply to Mr Relvil would be preposterous for though upon him dwelt all his ultimate hopes for Lionel he knew him at this moment to be so suffering and so irritated by his means that to hear of any new misdemeanours might incense him to an irrevocable disinheritance
With regard to Sir Hugh nothing was too much to expect from his generous kindness yet he knew that his bountiful heart had always kept his income from overflowing and that for three years past Lionel had drained it without mercy His preparations also for the double marriages had of late much straitened him To take up even the smallest part of what in less expensive times he had laid by he would regard as a breach of his solemn vow by which he imagined himself bound to leave Eugenia the full property she would have possessed had he died instantly upon making it Reason might have shewn this a tie of supererogation but where any man conceived himself obeying the dictates of his conscience Mr Tyrold held his motives too sacred for dispute
The painful result of this afflicting meditation was laying before his daughters the whole of his difficulties and demanding if they would willingly concur in paying their brothers bills from their appropriate little store by adopting an altered plan of life and severe selfdenial of their present ease and elegance to aid its speedy replacement
Their satisfaction in any expedient to serve their brother that seemed to fall upon themselves was sincere was even joyful but they jointly besought that the sum might be freely taken up and deducted for ever more from the hoard since no earthly gratification could be so great to them as contributing their mite to prevent any deprivation of domestic enjoyment to their beloved parents
His eyes glistened but not from grief it was the pleasure of virtuous happiness in their purity of filial affection But though he knew their sincerity he would not listen to their petition You are not yet said he aware what your future calls may be for money What I have yet been able to save without this unexpected seizure would be inadequate to your even decent maintenance should any accident stop short its encrease Weep not my dear children my health is still good and my prospect of lengthened life seems fair It would be however a temporal folly as well as a spiritual presumption to forget the precarious tenure of human existence My life my dear girls will be happier without being shorter for making provisions for its worldly cessation
But Sir but my father cried Camilla hanging over him and losing in filial tenderness her personal distresses if your manner of living is altered and my dear mother returns home and sees you relinquishing any of your small your temperate indulgencies may it not yet more embitter her sufferings and her displeasure for the unhappy cause For her sake then if not for ours——
Do not turn away dearest Sir cried Lavinia what mother ever merited to have her peace the first study of her children if it is not ours
O Providence benign said Mr Tyrold folding them to his heart how am I yet blessed in my children—True and excellent daughters of my invaluable wife—this little narration is the solace I shall have to offer for the grief I must communicate
He would not however hearken to their proposition his peace he said required not only immediate measures for replacing what he must borrow but also that no chasm should have lieu in funding his usual annual sum for them All he would accept was the same severe forbearance he should instantly practice himself and which their mother when restored to them would be the first to adopt and improve And this till its end was answered they would all steadily continue and then with cheerful selfapprovance resume their wonted comforts
Mr Tyrold had too frequent views of the brevity of human life to postpone even from one sun to another any action he deemed essential A new general system therefore immediately pervaded his house Two of the servants with whom he best could dispense were discharged which hurt him more than any other privation for he loved and was loved by every domestic who lived with him His table always simple though elegant was now reduced to plain necessaries he parted with every horse but one to whose long services he held himself a debtor and whatever throughout the whole economy of his small establishment admitted simplifying deducting or abolishment received without delay its requisite alteration or dismission
These new regulations were quietly but completely put in practice before he would discharge one bill for his son to whom nevertheless though his conduct was strict his feelings were still lenient He attributed not to moral turpitude his errours nor his crimes but to the prevalence of ill example and to an unjustifiable and dangerous levity which irresistibly led him to treat with mockery and trifling the most serious subjects The punishment however which he had now drawn upon himself would yet he hoped touch his heart
But the debts called debts of honour met not with similar treatment He answered with spirited resentment demands he deemed highly flagitious counselling those who sent them when next they applied to an unhappy family to whose calamities they had contributed to enquire first if its principles as well as its fortune made the hazards of gaming amongst its domestic responsibilities
CHAPTER IX
A Lovers Eye
The serenity of virtue would now again have made its abode the breast of Mr Tyrold but for the constant wretchedness to which he saw his daughter a prey With the benignest pity he strove to revive her a pity unabated by any wonder unalloyed with any blame His wonder fell all upon Edgar whom he considered as refining away mortal happiness by dissatisfaction that it was not divine but his censure which he reserved wholly for vice exonerated them both Still however he flattered himself that ere long to her youthful mind and native cheerfulness tranquillity if not felicity would imperceptibly return from such a union for exertion of filial and sisterly duties that industry would sweeten rest virtue gild privation and selfapprovance convert every sacrifice into enjoyment
But peace such as this was far from her bosom While the desertion of Edgar had tolled the death bell to all her hopes an unremitting contention disturbed her mind whether to avow or conceal her situation with regard to the moneylender The reflections of every night brought a dissatisfaction in her conduct which determined her upon an openness the most undisguised for the following morning but timidity and the desire of reprieve from the fearful task again the following morning regularly postponed her purpose
In the first horror occasioned by her fathers distress from the bills of her brother she wrote a supplicating letter to Mrs Mittin to intreat she would endeavour to quiet her creditors till she could arrange something for their payment And while this produced a correspondence replete with danger difficulty and impropriety a new circumstance occurred which yet more cruelly embittered her conflicting emotions Lavinia in the virtuous eagerness of her heart to forward the general œconomy insisted wholly to relinquish for this year her appropriate allowance declaring that by careful management she could dispense with anything new and that the very few expences she might find utterly unavoidable she would demand from time to time as they occurred Camilla at this proposition retreated in agony to her chamber To make the same was impossible for how then find interest for the moneylender yet to withstand so just an example seemed a disgrace to every duty and every feeling
Lavinia who in her countenance and abrupt departure read the new distress she had incautiously excited with a thousand selfreproaches followed her She had considered but the common cause when she spoke without weighing the strange appearance of not being seconded by her sister But her mind was amongst the last to covet the narrow praise of insidious comparison and her concern for the proposal she had made when she saw its effect was as deep as that of Camilla in hearing it though not attended with the same aggravations
Mr Tyrold remained utterly surprized The generous and disinterested nature of Camilla made it impossible to suspect her restrained by a greater love of money than Lavinia and he could not endure to suppose her late visits to public places had rendered personal œconomy more painful But he would make no enquiry that might seem a reproach nor suffer any privation or contribution that was not cheerful and voluntary
The purchases for the wedding of Miss Dennel being now made that young lady came down to the country to solemnize her nuptials accompanied by Mrs Mittin who instantly visited Camilla She could settle nothing she said with the moneylender without the premium but she had coaxed all the creditors by assuring them that as the debtor was a great heiress they were certain of their money when she came to her estate Camilla could not endure to owe their forbearance to a falsehood though to convince Mrs Mittin of her errour in contradiction to the assertion of Lionel was a vain attempt The business however pressed and to keep back these but too just claimants was her present most fervent desire Mrs Mittin was amongst the most expert of expedientmongers and soon started a method for raising the premium She asked to look at what Camilla possessed of trinkets and the prize earrings of Tunbridge the earrings and necklace of Southampton and several small toys occasionally given her were collected The locket she also demanded to make weight but neither that nor the peculiar gifts as keepsakes of her father mother or uncle consisting of a seal a ring and a watch would she part with What she would relinquish however Mrs Mittin disposed of to one of her numerous friends but they raised only when intrinsically valued sixteen pounds Lavinia then insisted upon coming forward with a contribution of every trinket she was worth save what had the same sacred motives of detention and the twenty pounds without any ceremony of acknowledgment were delivered to Mr Clykes who then took into his own hands the payment of the hundred and eighteen pounds for which he received a bond signed by Camilla and witnessed by Mrs Mittin and another note of hand promising ten per cent interest for the sum till the principal were repaid These two notes he acknowledged were mere pledges of honour as the law would treat her as an infant but he never acted without them as they prevented mistakes in private dealings
This important affair arranged Camilla felt somewhat more at ease she was relieved from hourly alarms and left the mistress to make her confession as circumstances directed But she obtained not for nothing the agency of Mrs Mittin who was not a character to leave self out of consideration in her transactions for others and at every visit made at Etherington from this time she observed something in the apparel of Camilla that was utterly old fashioned or too mean for her to wear but which would do well enough for herself when vamped up as she knew how Her obligations and inexperience made it impossible to her to resist though at this season of saving care she gave up nothing which she could not have rendered useful by industry and contrivance
During this unhappy period at Etherington a brighter though not unclouded scene was exhibited at Cleves Melmond arrived he was permitted to pay his addresses to the fair Indiana and believed felicity celestial accorded to him even upon earth
But this adored object herself suffered some severe repining at her fate when she saw from her window her lover gallop into the park without equipage without domestics and mounted on a hired horse The grimacing shrugs of Miss Margland shewed she entered into this mortification and they were nearly conspiring to dismiss the ignoble pretender when a letter which he modestly sent up from his sister inviting Indiana to pass a few weeks in Grosvenor Square once again secured the interest of the brother She suffered therefore Sir Hugh to hand her down stairs and the enamoured Melmond thought himself the most blest of men
The sight of such eager enjoyment and the really amiable qualities of this youth soon completely reconciled the Baronet to this new business for he saw no reason he said in fact why one niece had not as good a right to be married first as another The generous and sentimental Eugenia never ceased her kind offices and steadily wore an air of tolerable cheerfulness all day though her pillow was nightly wetted with tears for her unfortunate lot
Nor with all her native equanimity and acquired philosophy was this a situation to bring back serenity The enthusiastic raptures of Melmond elevated him in her eyes to something above human and while his adoration of Indiana presented to her a picture of all she thought most fascinating his grateful softness of respect to herself was penetratingly touching to her already conquered heart
Indiana meanwhile began ere long to catch some of the pleasure she inspired The passionate animation of Melmond soon not only resumed its first power but became even essential to her No one else had yet seemed to think her so completely a goddess except Mr Macdersey whom she scarce expected ever to see again With Melmond she could do nothing that did not make her appear to him still more lovely and though her whims thus indulged became almost endless they but kindled with fresh flame his admiration If she fretted he thought her all sensibility if she pouted all dignity if her laughter was unmeaning she was made up of innocent gaiety if what she said was shallow he called her the child of pure nature if she were angry how becoming was her spirit if illiberal how noble was her frankness Her person charmed his eye but his own imagination framed her mind and while his enchanted faculties were the mere slaves of her beauty they persuaded themselves they were vanquished by every other perfection
Mr Tyrold had not yet related Edgars defection to Sir Hugh though from the moment the time of hope was past he wished to end that of expectation But the pressure of the affairs of Lionel detained him at Etherington and he could not bear to give grief to his brother till he could soften its effect by the consolation of some residence at Cleves This time now arrived and the next day was fixed for his painful task in which he meant to spare Camilla any share when Jacob begged immediate admittance into the study where Mr Tyrold and his daughters were drinking tea
His scared look instantly announced ill news Mr Tyrold was alarmed Lavinia was frightened and Camilla exclaimed Jacob speak at once
He begged to sit down
Camilla ran to get him a chair
Is my brother well Jacob cried Mr Tyrold
Why pretty well considering Sir—but these are vast bad times for us
O if my uncle is but well cried Camilla relieved from her first dreadful doubt all I hope will do right
Why ay Miss said Jacob smiling I knew youd be masters best comfort and so I told him and so he says for that matter himself as Ive got to tell you from him But for all that he takes on prodigious bad I never saw him in the like way except just that time when Miss Geny had the small pox
They all supplicated him to forbear further comments and then gathered that a moneyagent employed by young Lynmere had just arrived at Cleves where with bitter complaints he related that having been duped into believing him heir to Sir Hugh Tyrold he had been prevailed with to grant him money from time to time to pay certain bills contracted not only there but in London for goods sent thence by his order to the amount of near thirteen hundred pounds without the interest of which he should give a separate account that he had vainly applied to the young gentleman for reimbursement who finally assured him he was just disinherited by his uncle No hope therefore remained to save him from the ruin of this affair but in the compassion of the Baronet which he now came to most humbly solicit
While Mr Tyrold in silent surprise and concern listened to an account that placed his brother in difficulties so similar to his own Camilla sinking back in her chair looked pale looked almost lifeless The history of the debts she already knew and had daily expected to hear but the circumstance of the moneylender and the delusion concerning the inheritance so resembled her own terrible and yet unknown story that she felt personally involved in all the shame and horror of the relation.
Mr Tyrold who believed her suffering all for her uncle made further enquiries while Lavinia tenderly sustained her Dont take on so dear Miss said Jacob for all our hope is in you as Master and I both said and he bid me tell your papa that if hed only give young Squire Mandlebert a jog to egg him on that he might not be so shilly shally as soon as ever the weddings over hed accept his kind invitation to Beech Park and bide there till he got clear as one may say
Mr Tyrold now required no assigned motive for the excessive distress of his daughter and hastened to turn Jacob from this too terribly trying subject by saying My brother then means to pay these demands
Lauk yes Sir his honour pays every thing as any body asks him only he says he dont know how because of having no more money being so hard run with all our preparations we have been making this last fortnight
Camilla with every moment encreasing agitation hid her face against Lavinia but Mr Tyrold with some energy said The interest at least I hope he will not discharge for those dangerous vultures who lie in wait for the weak or erring to encourage their frailties or vices by affording them means to pursue them deserve much severer punishment than merely losing a recompense for their iniquitous snares
This was quite too much for the already disordered Camilla she quitted her sister glided out of the room and delivered herself over as a prey no longer to sorrow but remorse Her conduct seemed to have been precisely the conduct of Clermont and she felt herself dreadfully implicated as one of the weak or erring guilty of frailties or vices
That an uncle so dearly loved should believe she was forming an establishment which would afford him an asylum during his difficulties now every prospect of that establishment was over was so heartpiercing a circumstance that to her father it seemed sufficient for the whole of what she endured He made her over therefore to Lavinia while he hastened to Cleves for Jacob when he had said all he was ordered to say all he had gathered himself and all he was able to suggest finished with letting him know that his master begged he would set out that very moment
The time of his absence was spent by Camilla in an anguish that at his return seemed quite to have changed her He was alarmed and redoubled his tenderness but his tenderness was no longer her joy He knows not she thought whom he caresses knows not that the wounds just beginning to heal for the son are soon to be again opened for the daughter
Yet her affections were all awake to enquire after her uncle and when she heard that nothing could so much sooth him as her sight all fear of his comments all terror of exertion subsided in the possible chance of consoling him and Mr Tyrold who thought every act of duty led to cheerfulness sent to desire the carriage might fetch her the next morning
He passed slightly over to Camilla the scene he had himself gone through but he confessed to Lavinia its difficulty and pain Sir Hugh had acknowledged he had drawn his bankers dry yet had merely current cash to go on till the next quarter whence he intended to deduct the further expences of the weddings Nevertheless he was determined upon paying every shilling of the demand not only for the debts but for all the complicate interest He would not listen to any reasoning upon this subject because he said he had it upon his conscience that the first fault was his own in letting poor Clermont leave the kingdom without clearing up to him that he had made Eugenia his exclusive heiress It was in vain Mr Tyrold pointed out that no future hopes of wealth could exculpate this unauthorized extravagance in Clermont and no dissipation in Clermont could apologize for the clandestine loan and its illegal interest The poor boy said he did it all knowing no better which how can I expect when I did wrong myself being his uncle Though if I were to have twenty more nephews and nieces in future the first word I should say to them would be to tell them I should give them nothing to the end that having no hope they might all be happy one as another All therefore that was left for Mr Tyrold was to counsel him upon the best and shortest means of raising the sum and for this purpose he meant to be with him again the next day
This affair however with all its reproach for the past and all its sacrifices for the time to come by no means so deeply affected Sir Hugh as the blow Mr Tyrold could no longer spare concerning Edgar It sunk to his heart dispirited him to tears and sent him extremely ill to bed
The chaise came early the next morning and Mr Tyrold had the pleasure to see Camilla exert herself to appear less sad Lavinia was also of the party as he meant to stay the whole day
Eugenia met them in the hall with the welcome intelligence that Sir Hugh though he had passed a wretched night was now somewhat better and considerably cheered by a visit from his old Yorkshire friend Mr Westwyn
Nevertheless Sir Hugh dismissed him and everybody else to receive Camilla alone
She endeavoured to approach him calmly but his own unchecked emotions soon overset her borrowed fortitude and the interview proved equally afflicting to both The cruel mischiefs brought upon him by Clermont were as nothing in the balance of his misfortunes when opposed to the sight of sorrow upon that face which hitherto had so constantly enlivened him as an image of joy and with her every selfdisappointment yielded for the moment to the regret of losing so precious a blessing as offering a refuge in a time of difficulty to an uncle so dear to her
Mr Tyrold would not suffer this scene to be long uninterrupted he entered with a cheering countenance that compelled them to dry their tears and told them the Westwyns could not much longer be left out though they remained well contented for the present with Miss Margland and his other daughters Melmond and Indiana added he smiling seem at present not beings of this lower sphere nor to have a moment to spare for those who are
That my dear brother answered the Baronet is all my comfort for as to all the rest of my marrying you see what its come to who could have thought of young Mr Edgars turning out in the same way I cant say but what I take it pretty unkind of him letting me prepare at this rate for nothing besides Beech Parks being within but a stones throw as one may say as well as his own agreeableness However now Ive seen a little more of the world I cant say I find much difference between the good and the bad with respect to their all doing alike The young boys nowadays whatevers come to em dont know what theyd be at They think nothing of disappointing a person if once theyve a mind to change their minds All ones preparations go for nothing which they never think of
Mr Tyrold now prevailed for the readmission of Mr Westwyn who was accompanied by his son and followed by the Cleves family
The cheeks of Camilla recovered their usual hue at the sight of Henry from the various interesting recollections which occurred with it She was seen herself with their original admiration both by the father and the son though with the former it was now mingled with anger and with the latter no longer gilded with hope Yet the complaints against her which upon his arrival Mr Westwyn meant to make were soon not merely relinquished but transformed into pity upon the view of her dejected countenance and silent melancholy
The Baronet however revived again by seeing his old friend whose humour so much resembled his own that in Yorkshire he had been always his first favourite Each the children of untutored nature honest and open alike in their words and their dealings their characters and their propensities were nearly the same though Sir Hugh more selfformed had a language and manner of his own and Mr Westwyn of a temper less equal and less gentle gave way as they arose to such angry passions as the indulgent Baronet never felt
My dear friend said Mr Westwyn you dont take much notice of my Hal though Ill give you my word you wont see such another young fellow every day However its as well not before his face for it might only make him think himself somebody and that while I am alive I dont intend he should do I cant bear a young fellow not dutiful Ive always a bad opinion of him I cant say he pleases me
My dear Westwyn answered the Baronet Ive no doubt but what master Hal is very good for which I am truly glad But as to much overrejoicing now upon the score of young boys its what I cant do seeing theyve turned out so ill one after another as far as I have had to do with them for which however I hope I bear em no malice Theyve enough to answer for without that which I hope theyll think of in time
Why to be sure Sir Hugh if you set about thinking of a young fellow by the pattern of my friend Clermont I cant say Im much surprised you dont care to give him a good word I cant say I am I am pretty much of the same way of thinking I love to speak the truth He then took Mr Tyrold apart and ran on with a history of all he had gathered while at Leipsic of the conduct and way of life of Clermont Lynmere He was a disgrace said he even to the English name as a Professor told me that I cant remember the name of its so prodigious long but if it had not been for my son he told me theyd have thought all the English young fellows good for nothing except extravagance and eating and drinking Theyd all round have got an ill name says he if it had not been for your son were his words which I shall never forget I sent him over a noble pipe of Madeira which Id just got for myself as soon as I came home I took to him very much I cant say but I did he was a very good man he had prodigiously the look of an Englishman He said Hal was an ornament to the university I took it very well of him I wish he had not such a hard name I can never call it to mind I hate a hard name I can never speak it without a blunder
Sir Hugh now who had been talking with Henry called upon Mr Westwyn to beg his pardon for not speaking of him more respectfully saying I see hes quite agreeable which I should have noticed from the first only being what I did not know which I hope is my excuse my head my dear friend not getting on much in point of quickness though I cant say its for want of pains since you and I used to live so much together but to no great end for I always find myself in the back however it happens which your son Master Hal is I see quite the contrary
Mr Westwyn was so much gratified by this praise that he immediately confessed the scheme and wish he had formed of marrying Hal to Camilla only for her not approving it Sir Hugh protested nothing could give him more pleasure than such a connexion and significantly added he had other nieces besides Camilla
Why yes said Mr Westwyn and I cant keep from looking at em I like em all mightily Im a great friend to taking from a good stock I chuse to know what Im about That girl at Southampton hit my fancy prodigiously But Im not for the beauty A beauty wont make a good wife It takes her too much time to put her cap on That little one there with the hump which I dont mind nor the limp neither I like vastly But Im afraid Hal wont take to her A young man dont much fancy an ugly girl Hes always hankering after something pretty Theres that other indeed Miss Lavinia is as handsome a girl as Id wish to see And she seems as good too However Im not for judging all by the eye Im past that An old man should not play the fool Which I wish somebody would whisper to a certain Lord that I know of that dont behave quite to my mind Im not fond of an old fool nor a young one neither They make me sick
Sir Hugh heard and agreed to all this with the same simplicity with which it was spoken and soon after Yorkshire becoming their theme Mr Tyrold had the pleasure of seeing his brother so much reanimated by the revival of old scenes ideas, and connexions that he heartily joined in pressing the Mr Westwyns to spend a fortnight at Cleves to which they consented with pleasure
CHAPTER X
A Brides Resolves
With every allowance for a grief in which so deeply he shared Mr Tyrold felt nearly bowed down with sorrow when he observed his own tenderness abate of its power to console and his exhortations of their influence with his miserable daughter whose complicated afflictions seemed desperate to herself and to him nearly hopeless
He now began to fear the rigid œconomy and retirement of their present lives might add secret disgust or fatigue to the disappointment of her heart He sighed at an idea so little in unison with all that had hitherto appeared of her disposition yet remembered she was very young and very lively and thought that if caught by a love of gayer scenes than Etherington afforded she was at a season of life which brings its own excuse for such venial ambition
He mentioned therefore with great kindness their exclusion from all society and proposed making an application to Mrs Needham a lady high in the esteem of Mrs Tyrold to have the goodness to take the charge of carrying them a little into the world during the absence of their mother I can neither exact nor desire he said to sequester you from all amusement for a term so utterly indefinite as that of her restoration since it is now more than ever desirable to regain the favour of your uncle Relvil for Lionel who has resisted every profession for which I have sought to prepare him though his idle and licentious courses so little fit him for contentment with the small patrimony he will one day inherit
The sisters mutually and sincerely declined this proposition Lavinia had too much employment to find time ever slow of passage and Camilla joined to the want of all spirit for recreation had a dread of appearing in the county lest she should meet with Sir Sedley Clarendel whose two hundred pounds were amongst the evils ever present to her The money which Eugenia meant to save for this account had all been given to Lionel and now her marriage was at an end and no particular sum expected she must be very long in replacing it especially as Jacob was first to be considered though he had kindly protested he was in no haste to be paid
Mr Tyrold was not sorry to have his proposition declined yet saw the sadness of Camilla unabated and suggested for a transient diversity a visit to the Grove enquiring why an acquaintance begun with so much warmth and pleasure seemed thus utterly relinquished Camilla had herself thought with shame of her apparently ungrateful neglect of Mrs Arlbery but the five guineas she had borrowed and forgotten to pay while she might yet have asked them of Sir Hugh and which now she had no ability any where to raise made the idea of meeting with her painful And thus overwhelmed with regret and repentance for all around her spirits gone and her heart sunk she desired never more except for Cleves to stir from Etherington
Had he seen the least symptom of her revival Mr Tyrold would have been gratified by her strengthened love of home but this was far from being the case and upon the marriage of Miss Dennel which was now celebrated he was glad of an opportunity to force her abroad from the necessity of making a congratulatory visit to the brides aunt Mrs Arlbery
The chariot therefore of Sir Hugh being borrowed she was compelled into this exertion which was ill repaid by her reception from Mrs Arlbery who hurt as well as offended by her long absence and total silence wore an air of the most chilling coldness Camilla felt sorry and ashamed but too much disturbed to attempt any palliation for her nonappearance and remissness of even a note or message
The room was full of morning visitors all collected for the same complimentary purpose but she was relieved with respect to her fears of Sir Sedley Clarendel in hearing of his tour to the Hebrides
Her mournful countenance soon however dispersed the anger of Mrs Arlbery What cried she has befallen you my fair friend if you are not immeasurably unhappy you are very seriously ill
Yes—no—my spirits—have not been good— answered she stammering—but yours may perhaps assist to restore them
The composition of Mrs Arlbery had no particle of either malice or vengeance she now threw off therefore all reserve and taking her by the hand said shall I keep you to spend the day with me Yes or no Peace or war
And without waiting for an answer she sent back the chariot and a message to Mr Tyrold that she would carry home his daughter in the evening
And now my faithless Fair cried she as soon as they were alone tell me what has led you to this abominable fickleness with me I mean If you had grown tired of any body else I should have thought nothing so natural But you know I suppose that the same thing we philosophise into an admirable good joke for our neighbours we moralise into a crime against ourselves
I thought said Camilla attempting to smile none but country cousins ever made apologies
Nay now I must forgive you without one word more answered Mrs Arlbery laughing and shaking hands with her a happy citation of one bon mot is worth any ten offences So you see you have nine to commit in store clear of all damages But the pleasure of finding one has not said a good thing only for once thence to be forgotten and die away in the winds is far greater than you can yet awhile conceive In the first pride of youth and beauty our attention is all upon how we are looked at But when those begin to be somewhat on the wane—when that barbarous time comes into play which revenges upon poor miserable woman all the airs she has been playing upon silly man—our ambition then is how we are listened to So now cutting short reproach and excuse and all the wearying round of explanation tell me a little of your history since we last met
This was the last thing Camilla meant to undertake but she began in a hesitating manner to speak of her little debt Mrs Arlbery eagerly interrupting her insisted it should not be mentioned adding I go on vastly well again I am breaking in two ponies and building a new phaeton and I shall soon pay for both without the smallest inconvenience—except just pinching my servants and starving my visitors But tell me something of your adventures You are not half so communicative as Rumour which has given me a thousand details of you and married you and your whole set to at least half a dozen men a piece since you were last at the Grove Amongst others it asserts that my old Lord Valhurst was seriously at your feet That prating Mrs Mittin who fastened upon my poor little niece at Tunbridge and who is now her factotum pretends that my lords own servants spoke of it publicly at Mrs Berlintons
This was a fact that being thus divulged a very few questions made impossible to deny though Camilla was highly superior to the indelicacy and ingratitude of repaying the preference of any gentleman by publishing his rejection
And what in the world my dear child said Mrs Arlbery could provoke you to so wild an action as refusing him
Good Heaven Mrs Arlbery
O what—you were not in love with him I believe not—but if he was in love with you take my word for it that would have done quite as well Tis such a little while that same love lasts even when it is begun with that you have but a few months to lose to be exactly upon a par with those who set out with all the quivers of Cupid darting from heart to heart He has still fortune enough left for a handsome settlement you cant help outliving him and then think but how delectable would be your situation Freedom money at will the choice of your own friends and the enjoyment of your own humour
You would but try me my dear Mrs Arlbery for you cannot Im sure believe me capable of making so solemn an engagement for such mercenary hopes and selfish purposes
This is all the romance of false reasoning You have not sought the man but the man you You would not have solicited his acceptance but yielded to his solicitation of yours The balance is always just where force is not used The man has his reasons for chusing you you have your reasons for suffering yourself to be chosen What his are you have no business to enquire nor has he the smallest right to investigate yours
This was by no means the style in which Camilla had been brought up to think of marriage and Mrs Arlbery presently added You are grave yet I speak but as a being of the world I live in though I address one that knows nothing about it Tell me however a little more of your affairs What are all these marriages and no marriages our neighbourhood is so busy in making and unmaking
Camilla returned the most brief and quiet answers in her power but was too late to save the delicacy of Eugenia in concealing her late double disappointments the abortive preparations of Sir Hugh having travelled through all the adjoining country Poor little dear ugly thing cried Mrs Arlbery she must certainly go off with her footman—unless indeed that good old pedant who teaches her that vast quantity of stuff she will have to unlearn when once she goes a little about will take compassion upon her and her thousands and put them both into his own pockets
This raillery was painful nearly to disgust to Camilla who frankly declared she saw her sister with no eyes but those of respect and affection and could not endure to hear her mentioned in so ridiculous a manner
Never judge the heart of a wit answered she laughing by the tongue We have often as good hearts ay and as much good nature too as the careful prosers who utter nothing but what is right or the heavy thinkers who have too little fancy to say anything that is wrong But we have a pleasure in our own rattle that cruelly runs away with our discretion
She then more seriously apologized for what she had said and declared herself an unaffected admirer of all she had heard of the good qualities of Eugenia
Other subjects were then taken up till they were interrupted by a visit from the young bride Mrs Lissin
Jumping into the room Im just run away she cried without saying a word to any body I ordered my coach myself and told my own footman to whisper me when it came that I might get off without saying a word of the matter Dear how theyll all stare when they miss me I hope theyll be frightened
And why so you little chit why do you want to make them uneasy
O I dont mind Im so glad to have my own way I dont care for anything else Dear how do you do Miss Camilla Tyrold I wonder you have not been to see me I had a great mind to have invited you to have been one of my brides maids But papa was so monstrous cross he would not let me do hardly any thing I liked I was never so glad in my life as when I went out of the house to be married Ill never ask him about any one thing as long as I live again Ill always do just what I chuse
And you are quite sure Mr Lissin will never interfere with that resolution
O I shant let him I dare say he would else Thats one reason I came out so just now on purpose to let him see I was my own mistress And I told my coachman and my own footman and my maid all three that if they said one word Id turn em all away For I intend always to turn em away when I dont like em I shall never say anything to Mr Lissin first for fear of his meddling Im quite determined I wont be crossed any more now Ive servants of my own Im sure Ive been crossed long enough
Then turning to Camilla Dear she cried how grave you look Dear I wonder you dont marry too When I ordered my coach just now I was ready to cry for joy to think of not having to ask papa about it And today at breakfast I dare say I rung twenty times for one thing or another As fast as ever I could think of any thing, I went to ringing again For when I was at papas every time I rang the bell he always asked me what I wanted Only think of keeping one under so
And what in the world said Mr Lissin to so prodigious an uproar
O he stared like any thing. But he could not say much I intend to use him to it from the first that he may never plague me like papa with asking me whats the reason for every thing If I dont like the dinner today Ill order a new one to be dressed for me on purpose And Mr Lissin and papa and Mrs Mittin and the rest of em may eat the old one Papa never let me order the dinner at home he always would know what there was himself and have what he chose Im resolved Ill have every thing I like best now every day I could not get at the cook alone this morning because so many of em were in the way though I rung for her a dozen times But tomorrow Ill tell her of some things I intend to have the whole year through in particular currant tarts and minced veal and mashed potatoes Ive been determined upon that these three years for against I was married
Then taking Camilla by the hand she begged she would accompany her to next room saying Pray excuse me Aunt Arlbery because I want to talk to Miss Tyrold about a secret
When they came to another apartment after carefully shutting the door Only think she cried Miss Camilla Tyrold of my marrying Mr Lissin at last Pray did you ever suspect it Im sure I did not When papa told me of it you cant think how I was surprised I always thought it would have been Colonel Andover or Mr Macdersey or else Mr Summers unless it had been Mr Wiggan or else your brother but Mr Lissin never once came into my head because of his being so old I dare say hes seven and twenty only think—But I believe he and papa had settled it all along only papa never told it me till just before hand I dont like him much do you
I have not the pleasure to know him but I hope you will endeavour to like him better now
I dont much care whether I do or not for I shall never mind him I always determined never to mind a husband One minds ones papa because one cant help it But only think of my being married before you though youre seventeen years old—almost eighteen I dare say—and Im only just fifteen I could not help thinking of it all the time I was dressing for a bride You cant think how pretty my dress was Papa made Mrs Mittin buy it because he said she could get every thing so cheap but I made her get it the dearest she could for all that Papas monstrous stingy
This secret conference was broken up by a violent ringing at the gate succeeded by the appearance of Mr Lissin who without any ceremony opened the door of the chamber into which the ladies had retired
So maam said he visibly very angry I have the pleasure at last to find you dinner has waited till it is spoilt and I hope therefore now you will do us the favour to come and sit at the head of your table
She looked frightened and he took her hand which she had not courage to draw back though in a voice that spoke a sob near at hand Im sure she cried this is not being treated like a married woman and Im sure if Id known I might not do as I like and come out when Id a mind I would not have married at all
Mr Lissin with little or no apology to Mrs Arlbery then conveyed his fair bride to her coach
Poor simple girl exclaimed Mrs Arlbery Mr Lissin who is a country squire of Northwick will soon teach her another lesson than that of ordering her carriage just at dinner time The poor child took it into her head that because upon marrying she might say my house my coach and my servants instead of my papas and ring her bell for whom she pleased and give her own orders that she was to arrive at complete liberty and independence and that her husband had merely to give her his name and lodge in the same dwelling and she will regard him soon as a tyrant and a brute for not letting her play all day long the part of a wild school girl just come home for the holidays
The rest of the visit passed without further investigation on the part of Mrs Arlbery or embarrassment on that of Camilla who found again some little pleasure in the conversation which at first had so much charmed and the kindness which even her apparent neglect had not extinguished
Mrs Arlbery in two days claimed her again Mr Tyrold would not permit her to send an excuse and she found that lady more kindly disposed to her than ever but with an undisguised compassion and concern in her countenance and manner She had now learnt that Edgar was gone abroad and she had learnt that Camilla had private debts to the amount of one hundred and eighteen pounds
The shock of Camilla when spoken to upon this subject was terrible She soon gathered she had been betrayed by Mrs Mittin who though she had made the communication as a profound secret to Mrs Arlbery with whom she had met at Mrs Lissins there was every reason to suppose would whisper it in the same manner to an hundred persons besides
Mrs Arlbery seeing her just uneasiness promised in this particular to obviate it herself by a conference with Mrs Mittin in which she would represent that her own ruin would be the consequence of divulging this affair from the general opinion which would prevail that she had seduced a young lady under age to having dealings with a usurer
Camilla deeply colouring accepted her kind offer but was forced upon a confession of the transaction though with a shame for her trust in such a character as Mrs Mittin that made her deem the relation a penance almost adequate to its wrong
CHAPTER XI
The Workings of Sorrow
The visit of the Westwyns to Sir Hugh shewed Lavinia in so favourable a light that nothing less than the strong prepossession already conceived for Camilla could have guarded the heart of the son or the wishes of the father from the complete captivation of her modest beauty her intrinsic worth and the cheerful alacrity and virtuous selfdenial with which she presided in the new œconomy of the rectory But though the utter demolition of hope played with Henry its usual part of demolishing also half the fervour of admiration he still felt in consequence of his late failure a distaste of any similar attempt and Mr Westwyn unbribed by the high praise of his son which had won him in Camilla left him master of his choice Each however found a delight in the Tyrold society that seconded the wishes of the Baronet to make them lengthen their visit
The retrenchments by which the debts of Clermont were to be paid could no longer nevertheless be deferred and Mr Tyrold was just setting out for Cleves to give his counsel for their arrangement when his daughters were broken in upon by Mrs Mittin
Camilla could scarcely look at her for displeasure at her conduct but soon observed she seemed herself full of resentment and ill humour She desired a private interview and Camilla then found that Mrs Arlbery had not only represented her fault and frightened her with its consequences but occasioned though most undesignedly new disturbances and new dangers to herself for Mrs Mittin at length learnt in this conference with equal certainty surprise and provocation that the inheritance of Sir Hugh was positively and entirely settled upon his youngest niece and that the denials of all expectation on the part of Camilla which she had always taken for closeness conveyed but the simple truth Alarmed lest she should incur the anger of Mr Clykes who was amongst her most useful friends she had written him word of the discovery with her concern at the mistake and Mr Clykes judging now he had no chance of the gratuity finally promised for honour and secrecy and even that his principal was in danger had sent an enraged answer with an imperious declaration that he must either immediately be repaid all he had laid out or receive some security for its being refunded of higher value than the note of a minor of no fortune nor expectations
Mrs Mittin protested she did not know which way to turn she was so sorry to have disobliged so good a friend and broke forth into a vehement invective against Mr Dubster for pretending he knew the truth from young Squire Tyrold himself
Long as was her lamentation and satisfied as she always felt to hear her own voice her pause still came too soon for any reply from Camilla who now felt the discovery of her situation to be inevitable compulsatory and disgraceful Selfupbraidings that she had ever listened to such an expedient assailed her with the cruellest poignancy mingling almost selfdetestation with utter despair
In vain Mrs Mittin pressed for some satisfaction she was mute from inability to devise any till the coachman of Mr Lissin sent word he could wait no longer She then in a broken voice said Be so good as to write to Mr Clykes that if he will have the patience to wait a few days I will prepare my friends to settle my accounts with him
Mrs Mittin then recovering from her own fright in this business answered O if thats the case my dear young lady pray dont be uneasy for it grieves me to vex you and Ill promise you Ill coax my good friend to wait such a matter as that for hes a vast regard for me hell do any thing I ask him I know
She now went away and Lavinia who ran to her sister found her in a state of distress that melted her gentle heart to behold but when she gathered what had passed This disclosure my dearest Camilla she cried can never be so tremendous as the incessant fear of its discovery Think of that I conjure you and endeavour to bear the one great shock that will lead to after peace and ease
No my dear sister peace and ease are no more for me—My happiness was already buried—and now all that remained of consolation will be cut off also in the lost good opinion of my father and mother—that destroyed—and Edgar gone—what is life to me—I barely exist
And is it possible you can even a moment doubt their forgiveness dear as you are to them cherished beloved—
No—not their forgiveness—but their esteem their confidence their pleasure in their daughter will all end—think Lavinia of my mother—when she finds I too have contributed to the distress and disturbance of my father—that on my account too his small income is again straitened his few gratifications are diminished—O Lavinia how has she strove to guard her poor tottering girl from evil And how has her fondness been always the pride of my life What a conclusion is this to her cares what a reward to all the goodness of my father
In this state of desperate wretchedness she was still incapable to make the avowal which was now become indispensable and which must require another loan from the store her father held so sacred Lavinia had even less courage and they determined to apply to Eugenia who though as softly feeling as either mingled in her character a sort of heroic philosophy that enabled her to execute and to endure the hardest tasks where she thought them the demand of virtue They resolved therefore the next morning to send a note to Cleves for the carriage and to commit the affair to this inexperienced and youthful female sage
Far from running as she was wont to meet her father upon his entrance Camilla was twice sent for before she could gain strength to appear in his presence nor could his utmost kindness enable her to look up
The heart of Mr Tyrold was penetrated by her avoidance and yet more sunk by her sight His best hopes were all defeated of affording her parental comfort and he was still to seek for her revival or support
He related what had passed at Cleves with the accustomed openness with which he conversed with his children as his friends Clermont he said was arrived and had authenticated all the accounts with so little of either shame or sense that a character less determined upon indulgence than that of Sir Hugh must have revolted from affording him succour if merely to mortify him into repentance The manner of making payment however had been the difficult discussion of the whole day Sir Hugh was unequal to performing any thing, though ready to consent to every thing When he proposed the sale of several of his numerous horses he objected that what remained would be hard worked when he mentioned diminishing his table he was afraid the poor would take it ill as they were used to have his orts and when he talked of discharging some of his servants he was sure they would think it very unkind His heart continued Mr Tyrold is so bountiful and so full of kindness that he pleads his tender feelings and regretting wishes against the sound reason of hard necessity What is right however must only in itself seek what is pleasant and there when it ceases to look more abroad it is sure to find it
He stopt hearing a deep sigh from Camilla who secretly ejaculated a prayer that this sentence might live henceforward in her memory He divined the wish which devoutly he echoed and continued
There is so little in fine that he could bear to relinquish that with my utmost efforts I could not calculate any retrenchment to which he will agree at more than an hundred a year Yet his scruples concerning his vow resist all the entreaties of our disinterested Eugenia to either sell out for the sum or cut down any trees in Yorkshire These difficulties too potent for his weak frame were again sinking him into that despondence which we should all sedulously guard against as the most prevailing of foes to active virtue when to relieve him I made a proposal which my dear girls will both I trust find peculiar pleasure in seconding
Camilla had already attempted to raise her drooping head conscience struck at what was said of despondence and now endeavoured to join in the cheerful confidence expressed by Lavinia that he could not be mistaken
The little hoard into which already we have broken for Lionel he went on I have offered to lend him for present payment as far as it will go and to receive it again at stated periods In the mean while I shall accept from him the same interest as from the bank For this I am to have also security I run no risk of the little all I have to leave to my two girls
He now looked at them both expecting to see pleasure even in Camilla that what was destined hereafter for herself could prove of the smallest utility to Sir Hugh but his disappointment and her shock were equal Too true for the most transitory disguise the keenest anguish shot from her eye and Mr Tyrold amazed said Is it Camilla who would draw back from any service to her uncle
Ah no cried she with clasped hands I would die to do him any good and O—that my death at this moment——
She stopt affrighted for Mr Tyrold frowned A frown upon a face so constantly benign was new was awful to her but she instantly recollected his condemnation of wishes so desperate and fearfully taking his hand besought his forgiveness
His brow instantly resumed its serenity I have nothing said he my dearest child to forgive from the moment you recollect yourself But try for your own sake to keep in mind that the current sorrows however acute of current life are but uselessly aggravated by vain wishes for death The smallest kind office better proves affection than any words however elevated
The conference here broke up something incomprehensible seemed to Mr Tyrold to be blended with the grief of Camilla and though from her birth she had manifested by every opportunity the most liberal disregard of wealth the something not to be understood seemed always to have money for its object. What this might be he now fervently wished to explore yet still hoped by patient kindness to receive her confidence voluntarily
Camilla now was half dead Lavinia could with difficulty sustain but by no possible means revive her What a period was this to disclose to her Father that she must deprive him in part even of his promised solace in his intended assistance to his brother to satisfy debts of which he suspected not the existence!
When forced down stairs by a summons to supper Mr Tyrold to console her for his momentary displeasure redoubled his caresses but his tenderness only made her weep yet more bitterly and he looked at her with a heart rent with anguish For Lavinia for Eugenia he would have felt similar grief but their far less gay though equally innocent natures would have made the view of their affliction less strikingly oppressive Camilla had hitherto seemed in the spring of joy yet more than of life Anxiety flew at her approach and animation took its place Nothing could shake his resignation yet to behold her constant sadness severely tried his fortitude To see tears trickling incessantly down the pale cheeks so lately blooming to see her youthful countenance wear the haggard expression of care to see life in its wish and purposes seem at an end ere in its ordinary calculation it was reckoned to have begun drew him from every other consideration and filled his whole mind with monopolizing apprehension
He now himself pressed her for change of scene to accept an invitation she had received from Mrs Berlinton to Grosvenor Square whither Indiana was going in a few days to spend a fortnight or three weeks before her marriage But she declined the excursion as not more unseasonable in its expence than ungenial to her feelings
The following morning while they were at their melancholy breakfast a letter arrived from Lisbon which Mr Tyrold read with visible disturbance exclaiming from time to time Lionel thou art indeed punished
The sisters were equally alarmed but Lavinia alone could make any enquiry
Mr Tyrold then informed them their uncle Relvil had just acknowledged to their Mother that he could no longer in justice conceal that previously to his quitting England he had privately married his housekeeper to induce her to accompany him in his voyage and that during his first wrath upon the detection of Lionel he had disinherited him in favour of a little boy of her own by a former marriage whom they had brought with them to Lisbon
Mr Tyrold though it had been his constant study to bring up his children without any reference to their rich uncles had never internally doubted but that the bachelor brother of Mrs Tyrold would leave his fortune to the son of his only sister who was his sole near relation And Lionel he knew in defiance of his admonitions had built upon it himself rather as a certainty than a hope He will now see said Mr Tyrold his presumption and feel by what he suffers what he has earned Yet culpable as he has been he is now also unfortunate and where crimes are followed by punishment it is not for mortal man to harbour unabating resentment I will write a few lines of comfort to him
Camilla in this concession experienced all she could feel of satisfaction but the short sensation died away at the last words of the letter of her Mother which Mr Tyrold read aloud
You I well know will immediately in this evil find for yourself and impart to our children something of instruction if not of comfort Shall I recollect this without emulation No I will bear up from this stroke which at least permits my return to Etherington where in the bosom of my dear family and supported by its honoured chief I will forget my voyage my painful absence and my disappointment in exertions of practical œconomy strict but not rigid which our good children will vie with each other to adopt sedulous all around to shew in what we can most forbear I hope almost immediately to claim my share in these labours which such motives will make light and such companions render precious
In agony past repression at these words Camilla glided out of the room The return of her Mother was now horrour to her not joy her shattered nerves could not bear the interview while under a cloud threatening to burst in such a storm and she entreated Lavinia to tell her Father that she accepted his proposal for going to Mrs Berlintons and there she cried Lavinia I will wait till Eugenia has told the dreadful history that thus humbles me to the dust
Lavinia was too timid to oppose reason to this suffering and Mr Tyrold already cruelly apprehensive the obscurity of their recluse lives contributed to her depression and believing she compared her present privations to the lost elegancies of Beech Park sighed heavily yet said he was glad she would remove from a spot in which reminiscence was so painful This was not indeed he added the period he should have selected for her visiting the capital or residing at Mrs Berlintons but she was too much touched by the state of her family not to be guarded in her expences and the pressure of her even augmenting sadness was heavier upon his mind than any other alarm
The consciencestruck Camilla could make no profession no promise nor yet though ardently wishing it refuse his offered advance of her next quarters allowance lest she should be reduced again to the necessity of borrowing
This step once decided brought with it something like a gloomy composure I shall avoid she cried at least with my Mother these killing caresses of deluded kindness that break my heart with my Father She too would soon discover there was something darker in my sadness than even grief She would be sure that even my exquisite loss could not render me ungrateful to all condolement she would know that a daughter whom she had herself reared and instructed would blush so unceasingly to publish any personal disappointment let her feel it how she might O my loved Mother how did the delight of knowing your kind expectations keep me while under your guidance in the way I ought to go O Mother of my heart what a grievous disappointment awaits your sad return To find at the first opening of your virtuous schemes of general saving—that I as well as Lionel have involved my family in debts—that I as well as Clermont have committed them clandestinely to a usurer
Lavinia undertook to give Eugenia proper instructions for her commission but news arrived the next day that Sir Hugh would take no denial to Eugenias being herself of the party This added not however to the courage of Camilla for staying and her next determination was to reveal the whole by letter
Mr Tyrold would not send her to Cleves to take leave that her uncle might not be tempted to exercise his wonted but now no longer convenient generosity nor yet be exposed to the pain of withholding it You will go now my dear girl he said in your pristine simplicity and what can so every way become you It is not for a scheme of pleasure but for a stimulus to mental exertion I part with you When you return your excellent Mother will aid your task and reward its labour Remember but while in your own hands that open œconomy springing from discretion is always respected It is false shame alone that begets ridicule
Weeping and silent she heard him and his fears gained ground that her disappointment joined to a view of gayer life had robbed Etherington of all charms to her Bitterly he regretted he had ever suffered her to leave his roof though he would not now force her stay Compulsion could only detain her person and might heighten the disgust of her mind
The little time which remained was given wholly to packing and preparing and continued employment hid from Mr Tyrold her emotion which encreased every moment till the carriage of Sir Hugh stopt at the gate Lost then to all sensation but the horrour of the avowal that must intervene ere they met again with incertitude if again he would see her with the same kindness she flew into his arms rather agonised than affectionate kissed his hands with fervour kissed every separate finger rested upon his shoulder hid her face in his bosom caught and pressed to her lips even the flaps of his coat and scarce restrained herself from bending to kiss his feet yet without uttering a word without even shedding a tear
Strangely surprised and deeply affected Mr Tyrold straining her to his breast said Why my dear child why my dearest Camilla if thus agitated by our parting do you leave me
This question brought her to recollection by the impossibility she found to answer it she tore herself therefore away from him embraced Lavinia and hurried into the coach
BOOK X
CHAPTER I
A Surprise
Camilla strove to check her grief upon entering the carriage in which Miss Margland had again the charge of the young party but the interrogatory of her Father Why will you leave me was mentally repeated without ceasing Ah why indeed thought she at a moment when every filial duty called more than ever for my stay—Well might he not divine the unnatural reason can I believe it myself—Believe such an hour arrived—when my Mother—the best of Mothers—is expected—when she returns to her family Camilla seeks another abode is not this a dream and may I not one day awake from it
Miss Margland was in the highest good humour at this expedition and Indiana was still enraptured to visit London from old expectations which she knew not how to relinquish though they were fixed to no point and as fantastic as vague Eugenia whose dejection had made Sir Hugh press her into the party found nothing in it to revive her and Camilla entered Grosvenorsquare with keen dissatisfaction of every sort The cautions of Edgar against Mrs Berlinton broke into all the little relief she might have experienced upon again seeing her She had meant to keep his final exhortations constantly in her mind and to make all his opinions and counsels the rule and measure of her conduct but a cruel perversity of events seemed to cast her every action into an apparent defiance of his wishes
Mrs Berlinton who in a mansion the most splendid received her with the same gentle sweetness she had first sought her regard was delighted by the unexpected sight of Eugenia whose visit had been settled too late to be announced by letter and caressed Indiana immediately as a sister Miss Margland who came but for two days sought with much adulation to obtain an invitation for a longer stay but Mrs Berlinton though all courtesy and grace incommoded herself with no society that she did not find pleasing
Melmond who had accompanied them on horseback was eager to engage the kindness of his sister for Indiana and Mrs Berlinton in compliment to her arrival refused all parties for the evening and bestowed upon her an almost undivided attention
This was not quite so pleasant to him in proof as in hope Passionless in this case herself the delusions of beauty deceived not her understanding and half an hour sufficed to shew Indiana to be frivolous uncultivated and unmeaning The perfection nevertheless of her face and person obviated either wonder or censure of the choice of her brother though she could not but regret that he had not seen with mental eyes the truly superior Eugenia
The wretched Camilla quitted them all as soon as possible to retire to her chamber and ruminate upon her purposed letter She meant at first to write in detail but her difficulties accumulated as she weighed them What a season cried she to sink Lionel still deeper in disgrace What a treachery after voluntarily assisting him to complain of and betray him ah let my own faults teach me mercy for the faults of others yet without this acknowledgment what exculpation could she offer for the origin of her debts and all she had incurred at Tunbridge those of Southampton she now thought every way unpardonable Even were she to relate the vain hopes which had led to the expence of the ball dress could she plead to an understanding like that of her Mother that she had been deceived and played upon by such a woman as Mrs Mittin I am astonished now myself she cried at that passive facility—but to me alas thought comes only with repentance The Higden debt both for the rent and the stores was the only one at which she did not blush since great as was her indiscretion in not enquiring into her powers before she plighted her services it would be palliated by her motive
Vainly she took up her pen not even a line could she write How enervating she cried is all wrong I have been till now a happy stranger to fear Partially favoured and fondly confiding I have looked at my dear Father I have met my beloved Mother with the same courage and the same pleasure that I looked at and met my brother and my sisters and only with more reverence How miserable a change I shudder now at the presence of the most indulgent of Fathers I fly with guilty cowardice from the fondest of Mothers
Eugenia when able followed her and had no sooner heard the whole history than tenderly embracing her she said Let not this distress seem so desperate to you my dearest sister your own account points out to me how to relieve it without either betraying our poor Lionel or further weighing down our already heavily burthened friends
And how my dear Eugenia cried Camilla with fearful gratitude and involuntarily reviving by the most distant idea of such a project
By adopting she said the same means that had been invented by Mrs Mittin She had many valuable trinkets the annual offerings of her munificent uncle the sale of which would go far enough she could not doubt towards the payment of the principal to induce the moneylender to accept interest for the rest till the general affairs of their house were reestablished when what remained of the sum could be discharged without difficulty by herself now no longer wanting money nor capable of receiving any pleasure from it but by the pleasure she might give
Camilla pressed her in her arms almost kneeling with fond acknowledgments and accepted without hesitation her generous offer
All then is arranged said Eugenia with a smile so benign it seemed nearly beautiful and to friendship and each other we will devote our future days My spirits will revive in the revival of Camilla To see her again gay will be renovation to my uncle and who knows my dear sister but our whole family may again be blest ere long with peace
The next morning they sent off a note to the moneylender whose direction Camilla had received from Mrs Mittin entreating his patience for a fortnight or three weeks when he would receive the greatest part of his money with every species of acknowledgment
Camilla much relieved went to sit with Mrs Berlinton but on entering the dressing room was struck by the sight of Bellamy just quitting it
Mrs Berlinton upon her appearance with a look of soft rapture approaching her said Felicitate me loveliest Camilla—my friend my chosen friend is restored to me and the society for which so long I have sighed in vain may be once more mine
Camilla startled exclaimed with earnestness My dearest Mrs Berlinton pardon me I entreat—but is Mr Bellamy known to Mr Berlinton
No answered she disdainfully but he has been seen by him Mr Berlinton is a stranger to merit or taste and Alphonso to him is but as any other man
They are however acquainted with each other said Camilla
Mrs Berlinton answered that after her marriage she remained three months in Wales with her aunt where Bellamy was travelling to view the country and where almost immediately after that unhappy enthralment she first knew him and first learnt the soothing charms of friendship but from that period they had met no more though they had constantly corresponded
Camilla was now first sensible to all the alarm with which Edgar had hitherto striven to impress her in vain The impropriety of such a connexion the danger of such a partiality filled her with wonder and disturbance She hesitated whether to relate or not the adventure of Bellamy with her sister but the strong repugnance of Eugenia to having it named and the impossibility of proving the truth of the general opinion of his base scheme decided her to silence Upon the plans and the sentiments however of Mrs Berlinton herself she spared not the extremest sincerity but she gained no ground by the contest though she lost not any kindness by the attempt
At dinner she felt extremely disturbed by the reappearance of Bellamy who alone she found had been excepted by Mrs Berlinton in the orders of general denial to company He seemed himself much struck at the sight of Eugenia who blushed and looked embarrassed by his presence He did not however address her he confined his attentions to Mrs Berlinton or Miss Margland
The former received them with distinguishing softness the latter at first disdainfully repelled them from the general belief at Cleves of his attempted elopement with Eugenia but afterwards finding she was left wholly to a person who had no resources for entertaining her namely herself—and knowing Eugenia safe while immediately under her eye she deigned to treat him with more consideration
The opera was proposed for the evening Mrs Berlinton having both tickets and her box at the service of her fair friends as the lady with whom she had subscribed was out of town Indiana was enchanted Miss Margland was elevated and Eugenia not unwilling to seek some recreation though hopeless of finding it But Camilla notwithstanding she was lightened at this moment from one of her most corrosive cares was too entirely miserable for any species of amusement The same strong feelings that gave to pleasure when she was happy so high a zest rendered it nearly abhorrent to her when grief had possession of her mind
After dinner when the ladies retired to dress Camilla with some uneasiness conjured Eugenia to avoid renewing any acquaintance with Bellamy
Eugenia blushing while a tear started into either eye said she was but too well guarded from Bellamy through a late transaction which had exalted her to a summit of happiness from which she could never now descend to any new plan of life beyond the single state and retirement
At night the whole party went to the Opera except Camilla who in spending the evening alone meant to ruminate upon her affairs and arrange her future conduct but Edgar his virtues and his loss took imperious possession of all her thoughts and while she dwelt upon his honour his sincerity and his goodness and traced with cherished recollection every scene in which she had been engaged with him he and they recurred to her as visions of all earthly felicity
Awakened from these reveries by the sound of the carriage and the rapping at the street door she was hastening down stairs to meet her sister when she heard Melmond call out from the coach Is Miss Eugenia Tyrold come home
No the man answered and Melmond exclaimed Good Heaven—I must run then back to the theatre Do not be alarmed my Indiana and do not alarm Miss Camilla for I will not return without her
They all entered but himself while Camilla fixed to the stair upon which she had heard these words remained some minutes motionless Then tottering down to the parlour with a voice hollow from affright and a face pale as death she tremulously articulated where is my sister
They looked all aghast and not one of them for some time was capable to give any account that was intelligible She then gathered that in coming out of the theatre to get to the coach they had missed her None of them knew how which way in what manner
And wheres Mr Bellamy cried she in an agony of apprehension was he at the Opera where—where is he
Miss Margland looked dismayed and Mrs Berlinton amazed at this interrogatory but they both said he had only been in the box at the beginning of the Opera and afterwards to help them out of the crowd
And who did he help who who exclaimed Camilla
Me—first— answered Miss Margland—and when we got into a great crowd he took care of Miss Eugenia too She then added that in this crowd both she and Eugenia had been separated from Mrs Berlinton and Indiana who by Melmond and another gentleman had been handed straight to the carriage without difficulty that soon after she had lost the arm of Bellamy who by some mistake had turned a wrong way but she got to the coach by herself where they had waited full half an hour Melmond running to and fro and searching in every direction but in vain to find Eugenia Nor had Bellamy again appeared They then came home hoping he had put her into a chair and that she might be arrived before them
Dreadful dreadful cried Camilla sinking on the floor she is forced away she is lost
When again her strength returned she desired that some one might go immediately to the house or lodgings of Bellamy to enquire if he were come home
This was done by a footman who brought word he had not been seen there since six oclock in the evening when he dressed and went out
Camilla now confirmed in her horrible surmise was nearly frantic She bewailed her sister her father her uncle she wanted herself to rush forth to search Eugenia in the streets she could scarce be detained within scarce kept off from entire delirium
CHAPTER II
A Narrative
It was four oclock in the morning when Melmond returned Camilla rushed to the streetdoor to meet him His silence and his mournful air announced his ill success She wrung her hands in anguish and besought him to send instantly an express to Etherington with the fatal tidings
He went himself to the nearest stables desiring she would prepare a letter while he got a man and horse for the journey
In scrawling and indistinct characters she then wrote
O my Father—our Eugenia has disappeared she was lost last night at the Opera—Mr Bellamy was conducting her to Mrs Berlintons coach—but we have seen neither of them since—what—what must we do
Melmond wrote the address which her hand could not make legible and Miss Margland prepared for the post a laboured vindication to Sir Hugh of her own conduct upon this occasion
Indiana was long gone to bed She was really very sorry but she was really much tired and she could do as she said no good
But Mrs Berlinton felt an alarm for Eugenia and an astonishment concerning Bellamy that would fully have wakened her faculties had she been wholly unmoved by the misery of Camilla Far other was however her nature gentle compassionate and sympathising and her own internal disturbance though great even beyond her own conception why sunk at sight of the excess of wretchedness which disordered her poor friend
There could be but one possible opinion of this disastrous adventure which was that Bellamy had spirited this young creature away to secure her fortune by her hand Melmond again went forth to make enquiry at all the stables in London for any carriage that might have been hired for a late hour And at six oclock in great perturbation he came back saying he had just traced that she was put into a chaise and four from a hackney coach that the chaise was hired in Piccadilly and engaged for a week He was now determined to ride post himself in the pursuit that if any accidental delay retarded them he might recover her before she arrived at Gretna Green whither he could not doubt she was to be conveyed but as she could not be married by force his presence might yet be in time to prevent persecution or foul play
Camilla nearly embraced him with transport at this ray of hope and leaving his tenderest condolements for Indiana whom he implored his sister to watch sedulously he galloped northwards
His heart was most sincerely in the business what he owed to the noble conduct which the high sentiments and pure regard of Eugenia had dictated had excited a tender veneration which made him hold his life as too small an offering to be refused for her service if its sacrifice could essentially shew his gratitude And often his secret mind had breathed a wish that her love of literature had been instilled into her cousin though he studiously checked as profane all that was not admiration of that most exquisite workmanship of nature.
Mrs Berlinton wanted not to be told this proceeding was wrong yet still found it impossible to persuade herself Eugenia would not soon think it right though Eugenia was the creature that she most revered in the whole world and though with Bellamy himself she felt irritated and disappointed
Camilla in every evil reverted to the loss of Edgar whose guardian care had she preserved him would have preserved she thought her loved Eugenia
The express from Etherington brought back only a few lines written by Lavinia with an account that Mr Tyrold in deep misery was setting out post for Scotland
A week past thus in suspence nearly intolerable to Camilla before Melmond returned
Always upon the watch she heard his voice and flew to meet him in the dressing room He was at the feet of Indiana to whom he was pouring forth his ardent lamentations at this long deprivation of her sight
But joy had evidently no part in his tenderness Camilla saw at once depression and evil tidings and sinking upon a chair could scarcely pronounce Have you not then found her
I have left her but this minute he answered in a tone the most melancholy
Ah you have then seen her you have seen my dearest Eugenia—O Mr Melmond why have you left her at all
It was long before he could answer he besought her to compose herself he expressed the extremest solicitude for the uneasiness of Indiana whose eternal interruptions of Dear where is she—Dear why did not she come back—Dear who took her away he attributed to the agitation of the fondest friendship and conjured while tears of terror started into his eyes that she would moderate the excess of her sensibility It seems the peculiar province of the lover to transfuse all that he himself most prizes and thinks praiseworthy into the breast of his chosen object nor is he more blind to the defects with which she may abound than prodigal in gifts of virtues which exist but in his own admiration
And my Father my poor Father cried Camilla you have seen nothing of my Father
Pardon me I have just left him also
And not with Eugenia
Yes they are together
Rapture now defied all apprehension with Camilla the idea of Eugenia restored to her Father was an idea of entire happiness but her joy affected Melmond yet more than her alarm he could not let her fasten upon any false expectations he bid his sister aid him to support Indiana and then with all the gentleness of the sincerest concern confessed that Eugenia was married before she was overtaken
This was a blow for which Camilla was still unprepared She concluded it a forced marriage horror froze her veins her blood no longer flowed her heart ceased to beat she fell lifeless on the ground
Her recovery was more speedy than it was happy and she was assisted to her chamber no longer asking any questions no longer desiring further information All was over of hope and the particulars seemed immaterial since the catastrophe was as irreversible as it was afflicting
Mrs Berlinton still attended her grieved for her suffering yet believing that Eugenia would be the happiest of women though an indignation the most forcible mingled with her surprise at the conduct of Bellamy
This dread sort of chasm in the acuteness of the feelings of Camilla lasted not long and Mrs Berlinton then brought from Melmond the following account
With the utmost speed he could use he could not though a single horseman overtake them They never as he learnt by the way remitted their journey nor stopt for the smallest refreshment but at some cottage At length in the last stage to Gretna Green he met them upon their return It was easy to him to see that his errand was vain and the knot indissolubly tied by the blinds being down and the easy air with which Bellamy was looking around him
Eugenia sat back in the chaise with a handkerchief to her eyes He stopt the vehicle and told Bellamy he must speak with that lady That lady Sir he proudly answered is my wife speak to her therefore but in my hearing Eugenia at this dropt her handkerchief and looked up Her eyes were sunk into her head by weeping and her face was a living picture of grief Melmond loudly exclaimed I come by the authority of her friends and I demand her own account of this transaction We are now going to our friends replied he ourselves and we shall send them no messages He then ordered the postillion to drive on telling him at his peril to stop no more Eugenia in a tone but just audible saying Adieu Mr Melmond Adieu
To have risked his life in her rescue at such a moment seemed to him nothing could he but more certainly have ascertained her own wishes and real situation but as she attempted neither resistance nor remonstrance he concluded Bellamy spoke truth and if they were married he could not unmarry them and if they were going to her friends they were doing all he could now exact He resolved however to follow and if they should turn any other road to call for assistance till he could investigate the truth
They stopt occasionally for refreshments at the usual inns and travelled no more in the dark but Bellamy never lost sight of her and Melmond in watching observed that she returned to the chaise with as little opposition as she quitted it though weeping always and never for a voluntary moment uncovering her face Bellamy seemed always most assiduous in his attentions she never appeared to repulse him nor to receive from him any comfort
On the second days journey just as Bellamy had handed her from the chaise at the inn where they meant to dine and which Melmond as usual entered at the same time he saw Mr Tyrold—hurrying but so shaking he could scarcely support himself from a parlour whence he had seen them alight into the passage The eyes ever downcast of Eugenia perceived him not till she was clasped in mute agony in his arms She then looked up saw who it was and fainted away Bellamy though he knew him not supposed who he might be and his reverend appearance seemed to impress him with awe Nevertheless he was himself seizing the now senseless Eugenia to convey her to some room when Mr Tyrold reviving from indignation fixed his eyes upon his face and said By what authority Sir do you presume to take charge of my daughter—By the authority he answered of a husband Mr Tyrold said no more he caught at the arm of Melmond though he had not yet seen who he was and Bellamy carried Eugenia into the first vacant parlour followed only by the woman of the house
Melmond then respectfully and filled with the deepest commiseration sought to make himself known to Mr Tyrold but he heard him not he heeded no one he sat down upon a trunk accidentally in the passage where all this had passed saying but almost without seeming conscious that he spoke aloud This indeed is a blow to break both our hearts Melmond then stood silently by for he saw by his folded hands and uplighted eyes he was ejaculating some prayer after which with a countenance more firm and limbs better able to sustain him he rose and moved towards the parlour into which the fainting Eugenia had been carried
Melmond then again spoke to him by his name He recollected the voice turned to him and gave him his hand which was of an icy coldness You are very kind Mr Melmond he said my poor girl—but stopt checking what he meant to add and went to the parlourdoor
It was locked The woman of the house had left it and said the lady was recovered from her fit Mr Tyrold from a thousand feelings seemed unable to demand admission for himself he desired Melmond to speak and claim an audience alone for him with his daughter
Bellamy opened the door with a look evidently humbled and frightened yet affecting perfect ease When Melmond made known his commission Eugenia starting up exclaimed Yes yes I will see my dear Father alone—and O that this poor frame might sink to rest on his loved bosom
In a moment in a moment cried Bellamy motioning Melmond to withdraw tell Mr Tyrold he shall come in a moment
Melmond was forced to retreat but heard him hastily say as again he fastened the door My life O Eugenia is in your hands—and is it thus you requite my ardent love and constancy
Mr Tyrold now would wait but a few minutes it was palpable Bellamy feared the interview and he could fear it but from one motive he sent him therefore word by Melmond that if he did not immediately retire and leave him to a conference alone with his daughter he would apply no more for a meeting till he claimed it in a court of justice
Bellamy soon came out bowed obsequiously to Mr Tyrold who passed him without notice and who was then for half an hour shut up with Eugenia Longer Bellamy could not endure he broke in upon them and left the room no more
Soon after Mr Tyrold came out his own eyes now as red as those of the weeping bride He took Melmond apart thanked him for his kindness but said nothing could be done He entreated him therefore to return to his own happier affairs adding I cannot talk upon this miserable event Tell Camilla her sister is for the present going home with me—though not alas alone Tell her too I will write to her upon my arrival at Etherington
This concluded Mrs Berlinton is all my brother has to relate all that for himself he adds is that if ever to something human the mind of an angel was accorded—that mind seems enshrined in the heart of Eugenia
Nothing that Camilla had yet experienced of unhappiness had penetrated her with feelings of such deadly woe as this event Eugenia from her childhood had seemed marked by calamity her ill health even from infancy and her subsequent misfortunes had excited in her whole house the tenderest pity to which the uncommon character with which she grew up had added respect and admiration And the strange and almost continual trials she had had to encounter from the period of her attaining her fifteenth year which far from souring her mind had seemed to render it more perfect had now nearly sanctified her in the estimation of them all To see her therefore fall at last a sacrifice to deceit or violence—for one if not both had palpably put her into the possession of Bellamy was a grief more piercingly wounding than all she had yet suffered Whatever she had personally to bear she constantly imagined some imprudence or impropriety had provoked but Eugenia while she appeared to her so blameless that she could merit no evil was so amiable that willingly she would have borne for her their united portions
How it had been effected since force would be illegal still kept amazement joined to sorrow till the promised letter arrived from Mr Tyrold with an account of the transaction
Eugenia parted from Miss Margland by Bellamy in the crowd was obliged to accept his protection which till then she had refused to restore her to her company The coach he said he knew had orders to wait in Pall Mall whither the other ladies would be conveyed in chairs to avoid danger from the surrounding carriages She desired to go also in a chair but he hurried her by quick surprize into a hackneycoach which he said would be more speedy and bidding the man drive to Pall Mall seated himself opposite to her She had not the most remote suspicion of his design as his behaviour was even coldly distant though she wondered Pall Mall was so far off and that the coachman drove so fast till they stopt at a turnpike——and then in one quick and decided moment she comprehended her situation and made an attempt for her own deliverance—but he prevented her from being heard—And the scenes that followed she declined relating Yet what she would not recount she could not to the questions of her Father deny that force from that moment was used to repel all her efforts for obtaining help and to remove her into a chaise
Mr Tyrold required to hear nothing more to establish a prosecution and to seize her publickly from Bellamy But from this she recoiled No my dear Father she continued the die is cast and I am his Solemn has been my vow sacred I must hold it
She then briefly narrated that though violence was used to silence her at every place where she sought to be rescued every interval was employed by Bellamy in the humblest supplications for her pardon and most passionate protestations of regard all beginning and all ending in declaring that to live longer without her was impossible and pledging his ardent attachment for obtaining her future favour spending the period from stage to stage or turnpike to turnpike in kneeling to beseech forgiveness for the desperation to which he was driven by the most cruel and hopeless passion that ever seized the heart of man When they were near their journeys end he owned that his life was in her hands but he was indifferent whether he lost it from the misery of living without her or from her vengeance of this last struggle of his despair She assured him his life was safe and offered him pardon upon condition of immediate restoration to her friends but suddenly producing a pistol Now then he said O amiable object of my constant love bless me with your hand or prepare to see me die at your feet And with a terrifying oath he bound himself not to lose her and outlive her loss She besought him to be more reasonable with the gentlest prayers but his vehemence only encreased she offered him every other promise he could name but he preferred death to every other she should grant She then pronounced though in trembling a positive refusal Instantly he lifted up his pistol and calling out Forgive then O hardhearted Eugenia my uncontroulable passion and shed a tear over the corpse I am going to prostrate at your feet was pointing it to his temple when overcome with horror she caught his arm exclaiming Ah stop I consent to what you please It was in vain she strove afterwards to retract one scene followed another till he had bound her by all she herself held sacred to rescue him from suicide by consenting to the union He found a person who performed the marriage ceremony on the minute of her quitting the chaise She uttered not one word she was passive scared and scarce alive but resisted not the eventful ring with which he encircled her finger and seemed rousing as from a dream upon hearing him call her his wife He professed eternal gratitude and eternal devotion but no sooner was all conflict at an end than consigning herself wholly to grief she wept without intermission
When Mr Tyrold had heard her history abhorrence of such barbarous force and detestation of such foul play upon the ingenuous credulity of her nature made him insist yet more strongly upon taking legal measures for procuring an immediate separation and subsequent punishment but the reiterated vows with which since the ceremony he had bound her to himself so forcibly awed the strict conscientiousness of her principles that no representations could absolve her opinion of what she now held her duty and while she confessed her unhappiness at a connection formed by such cruel means she conjured him not to encrease it by rendering her in her own estimation perjured
Patiently therefore continued Mr Tyrold we must bear what vainly we should combat and bow down to those calamities of which the purpose is hidden nor fancy no good is answered because none is obvious Man develops but little though he experiences much The time will come for his greater diffusion of knowledge; let him meet it without dread by using worthily his actual portion I resign myself therefore with reverence to this blow though none yet has struck so hardly at my heart We must now do what we can for this victim to her own purity by seeking means to secure her future independence and by bettering—if possible—her betrayer What a daughter what a sister what a friend has her family thus lost How will your poor Mother receive such killing tidings Misfortune sickness and poverty she has heroism to endure but innocence oppressed through its own artlessness and inexperience duped by villainy will shake her utmost firmness and harass into disorder her as yet unbroken powers of encountering adversity Alas—no evils that visited the early years of this loved child have proved to her so grievous as the large fortune with which they were followed We repined my Camilla at the deprivation you sustained at that period—We owe to it perhaps that you have not as treacherously been betrayed
How has the opening promise of our Eugenia more than answered our fondest expectations Her knowledge is still less uncommon than her simplicity her philosophy for herself than her zeal in the service of others She is singular with sweetness peculiar yet not impracticable generous without parade and wise without consciousness Yet now so sacrificed seems all—that I dwell upon her excellencies as if enumerating them over her tomb
A letter from Lavinia contained some further particulars Their Father she said finding the poor victim resolute meant to spare Sir Hugh all that was possible of the detestable craft of Bellamy and Eugenia was already struggling to recover her natural serenity that she might appear before him without endangering his own Bellamy talked of nothing but love and rapture yet the unsuspicious Eugenia was the only person he deceived for so little from the heart seemed either his looks or his expressions that it was palpable he was acting a part to all who believed it possible words and thoughts could be divided
A postscript to this letter was added by Eugenia herself
Ah my Camilla where now are all our sweet promised participations But let me not talk of myself nor do you my affectionate sister dwell upon me at this period One thing I undertook shall yet be performed the moment I am able to go to Cleves I will deliver through Lavinia what I mentioned Does anything else remain that is yet in my power Tell me my Camilla and think but with what joy you will give joy again to your
Eugenia
Broken hearted over these letters Camilla spent her time in their perpetual perusal in wiping from them her tears and pressing with fond anguish to her lips the signature of her hapless sister selfbeguiled by her own credulous goodness and selfdevoted by her conscientious scruples
CHAPTER III
The Progress of Dissipation
Mr Clykes by the promised payment and reward being for the present appeased Camilla still admitted some hope of waiting a more favourable moment for her cruel confession She received also a little though mournful reprieve from terror by a letter from Lisbon written to again postpone the return of Mrs Tyrold at the earnest request of Mr Relvil and she flattered herself that before her arrival she should be enabled to resume those only duties which could draw her from despondence She lived meanwhile wholly shut up from all company consigned to penitence for her indiscretions to grief for the fate of her sister and to wasting regret of her own causelessly lost felicity
Indiana smiled not more sweetly upon Melmond for Miss Marglands advising her to consider in time whether the promises made by Miss Eugenia Tyrold would be binding to Mrs Bellamy She saw nevertheless no good she said it could do her cousin that she should neglect such an opportunity of seeing London and Miss Margland in aid of this desire spared so much trouble to Mrs Berlinton who soon wearied of Indiana that she had the satisfaction of being invited to remain in Grosvenorsquare till the two young ladies returned into the country
Mrs Berlinton who indulged in full extent every feeling but investigated none had been piqued and hurt to extreme unhappiness at the late conduct of Bellamy Attracted by his fine person and caught by the first flattery which had talked to her of her own she had easily been captivated by his description of the sympathy which united and penetrated by his lamentations at the destiny which parted them His request for her friendship had been the first circumstance after her marriage which had given her any interest in life and soon with the common effect of such dangerous expedients to while away chagrin had occupied all her thoughts and made the rest of the universe seem to her as a blank But their continued separation from each other made the day soon too long for mere regret and her pliant mind in this state of vacancy had readily been bent to the new pursuit pressed upon her by Mrs Norfield which however upon the reappearance of Bellamy would speedily have given way to the resumption of his influence had not his elopement with Eugenia left her again all at large It destroyed an illusion strong though not definable demolished a friendship ill conceived and worse understood and brought with it a disappointment which confused all her ideas To be inactive was however impossible simplicity once given up returned to the dissipated no more or returns but when experience brings conviction That all is hollow where the heart bears no part all is peril where principle is not the guide
The Faro Table was now reopened and again but too powerfully sharpened the faculties which mortification had blunted A company the most miscellaneous composed her evening assemblies which were soon nevertheless amongst the most fashionable as well as crowded of the metropolis Whatever there is new and splendid is sure of a run for at least a season Enquiries into what is right or strictures upon what is wrong rarely molest popularity till the rise of some fresher luminary gives fashion another abode
Calamity requires not more fortitude than pleasure What she began but to divert disappointment and lassitude she continued to attain celebrity and the company which Faro and Fashion brought together she soon grew ambitious to collect by motives of more appropriate flattery All her aim now was to be universally alluring and she looked from object to object in smiling discourse till one by one every object could look only at her and grace and softness which had been secretly bewitching while she had the dignity to keep admiration aloof were boldly declared to be invincible since she permitted such professions to reach her ear
Long surrounded by gazing admirers she became now encircled by avowed adorers and what for victory she had essayed she pursued ardently for pleasure Coquetry is as fascinating to those who practise it as to those whom it seduces and she found herself shortly more happy by a conquest effected by wiles and by art than by any devotion paid straight forward and uncourted The generality of her new ambition protected it from permanent ill consequences aiming at everyone she cared for no one mortified by Bellamy she resolved to mortify others and in proportion as her smiles grew softer her heart became harder
Indiana at this period immersed at once from the most private retreat into the gayest vortex of pleasure thought herself in the upper regions where happiness composed by her own ideas consisted of perpetual admiration to unfading beauty but though the high qualities with which the devotion of Melmond had gifted her had enslaved his reason and understanding from suspecting that so fair a form could enclose aught short of its own perfection his heart was struck and all his feelings were offended when he saw her capable of dissipation upon a season of calamity to Eugenia Eugenia whom though he could not love he venerated Eugenia whose nature he thought divine though her person unhappily was but too human Eugenia to whom he owed the union upon which hung all his wishes to seek pleasure while Eugenia suffered was astonishing was incomprehensible He felt as if every principle of his love were violated he looked another way to disguise his shock—but when he looked at her again it was forgotten
Camilla soon after learnt from Lavinia that Sir Hugh had been deeply affected by the history of the elopement though it had been softened to him by all possible means at the desire of the heroic Eugenia herself who would now own to no one the force with which she had been carried off Bellamy continued the most unremitting demonstrations of affection which she received with gentleness and appeared entirely to credit as sincere but he had already absolutely refused a residence offered for them both at Cleves and made Eugenia herself ask a separate provision of her uncle though she could not even a moment pretend that the desire was her own Sir Hugh nevertheless had yielded and notwithstanding his present embarrassments from Clermont had insisted upon settling a thousand pounds a year upon her immediately in consequence of which Bellamy had instantly taken a house at Belfont to which they were already removing Eugenia had recovered her gentle fortitude seemed to submit to her destiny and repined solely she could not yet keep her engagement with respect to the trinkets which though she had openly told Bellamy were promised to a friend he had seized to pack up and said he could not redeliver till they were arranged in their new dwelling But she charged Lavinia to express her hopes that the detention would not last long
When the given three weeks expired Indiana infatuated with London begged and obtained leave to stretch her residence there to a month
Eugenia was now settled at Belfont but still Camilla received no intelligence of the promised boon and spent her lingering hours in her chamber no longer even invited thence except at meals by Mrs Berlinton whose extreme and encreasing dissipation from first allowing no time took off next all desire for social life Surprised and hurt Camilla was called off a little from herself through concern She sincerely loved Mrs Berlinton whom it was difficult to see and know with indifference and she softly represented to her how ill she felt at ease in the falling off she experienced in her partiality
Mrs Berlinton tenderly embraced her protesting she was dear to her as ever and feeling while she spoke her first affection return but not a moment had she to bestow from her new mode of life some party was always formed which she had not force of mind to break an internal restlessness from the want of some right pursuit joined to a disappointment she could not own made that party induce another and though none gave her real pleasure which her strong however undisciplined and unguided feelings shut out from such a species of vague life all gave employment to expectation and were preferable to a regret at once consuming and mortifying
Her gentleness however and her returned personal kindness encouraged Camilla to repeat her admonitions and engage assistance from Melmond who at any other period would uncalled have given his whole attention to a sister dear at once to his honour and his heart but Indiana more than occupied she engrossed him She now expected an adoration so unremitting that if she surprised his eyes turned any other way even a moment she reproached him with abated love and it was the business of a day to obtain a reconciliation
Gratefully however at the instigation of Camilla he resumed the vigilance with which upon her first entering London the preceding year he had attended to all the actions of his sister But the difference already produced by the effect of flattery the hardening of example and the sway of uncontrolled early power astonished and alarmed him At her first setting out she had hearkened to all counsel frightened by every representation of danger and humbled by every remonstrance against impropriety But she now heard him with little or no emotion and from beginning to listen unmoved soon proceeded to reply and resist A search rather than a love of pleasure had seized her young mind which had now gained an ascendant that rendered contest less shocking than yielding would have been painful
The tribulation of Melmond at this ill success rested not solely upon his sister he saw yet more danger for Indiana who now seemed scarce to live but while arraying or displaying herself His passion had lost its novelty and her eyes lost their beaming pleasure in listening to it and the regard he had fondly expected to take place of first ecstacy he now found unattainable from want of all materials for its structure His discourse when not of her beauty but strained her faculties his reading when compelled to hear it but wearied her intellects She had no genius to catch his meaning and no attention to supply its place
Deeply he now thought of Eugenia with that regret ever attached to frail humanity for what is removed from possible possession The purity of her love the cultivation of her mind and the nobleness of her sentiments now bore forth a contrast to the general mental and intellectual littleness of Indiana which made him blame the fastidious eyes that could dwell upon her face and form and feel that even with the matchless Indiana he must sigh at their mutual perversity of fate
Nor missed he more in soul than Indiana in adoration who turned from what she now resented as coldness to the violent praises of Macdersey who became at this period a frequenter of Mrs Berlintons assemblies She understood not the inevitable difference of the altered situation that he who was accepted might be grateful but could not be anxious and that Melmond while in suspense wore the same impassioned air and spoke the same impassioned feelings as Macdersey To her all seemed the change not from doubt to security but from love to insensibility
To live always at her feet while he thought her alldivine was his own first joy and greatest pride but when once he found his goddess had every mortal imperfection his homage ceased with amazement that ever it could have been excited Those eyes thought he which I have gazed at whole days with such unreflecting admiration and whose shape colour size and sweet proportion still hold their preeminence now while retaining their first lustre have lost all their illusory charm I meet them—but to deplore their vacancy of the souls intelligence—I fondly—vainly seek
Even when again the time arrived for returning to Cleves Indiana hanging languidly upon every minute she could steal from it petitioned for a few days more from the evergranting Baronet which while by her devoted to coquetry admiration and dress were consumed by Camilla in almost every species of wretchedness Mrs Mittin wrote her word that Mr Clykes was become more uneasy than ever for his money as she had thought it indispensable to acquaint him of the reports in the neighbourhood that Mr Tyrold had met with misfortunes and was retrenching if he could not therefore be paid quickly he must put in his claims elsewhere
The same post brought from Lavinia an account so afflicting of Eugenia as nearly to annihilate even this deep personal distress It was known through Molly Mill who by the express insistance of Sir Hugh continued to live with her young Mistress that Bellamy had already at Belfont cast off the mask of pretended passion and grossly demanded of her Mistress to beg money for him of Sir Hugh acknowledging without scruple large debts that demanded speedy payment and pressing her to ask for the immediate possession of the Yorkshire estate Her Mistress though mildly always steadily refused which occasioned reproaches so rude and violent as almost to frighten her into fits and so loud that they were often heard by every servant in the house
Camilla at this dreadful history grew nearly indifferent to all else and would have relinquished almost unrepining her expectations of personal relief but that Lavinia in the name of their unhappy sister bid her still cherish them assuring her she hoped yet to perform her engagement as Mr Bellamy never disputed her already given promise though he had mislaid the key of the box in which the trinkets were deposited
Nor even here rested the misery of Camilla another alarm stole upon her mind of a nature the most dreadful
Upon the first evening of this newlygranted stay while she was conversing alone with Mrs Berlinton before the nocturnal toilette of that lady a servant announced Mr Bellamy Mrs Berlinton blushed high evidently with as much of anger as surprise Camilla hastily withdrawing to avoid an object abhorrent to her wondered she would admit him yet anxious for any intelligence that could relate to her sister enquired when he was gone and ran towards the dressingroom to ask what had passed but before she reached the door the sound of his voice reentering the hall and of his step reascending the stairs made her fly into the adjoining apartment not to encounter him where the instant he had shut the door and before she could move she heard him exclaim You weep still my lovely friend Ah can one doubt so injurious remain upon your mind as to suppose any thing but the cruel necessity of my misfortunes could have made me tarnish our celestial friendship with any other engagement Ah look at her and look at yourself
Camilla who at first had been immoveable from consternation now recovered sufficiently to get back to her room But she returned no more to Mrs Berlinton though Bellamy soon departed her eagerness for information subsided in indignant sorrow That Eugenia the injured the inestimable Eugenia should be spoken of by the very violator who had torn her from her friends as a mere burthen attached to the wealth she procured him struck at her heart as a poniard And the impropriety to herself and the wrong to Eugenia of Mrs Berlinton in listening to such a discourse totally sunk that lady in her esteem though it determined her as a duty due to them all around to represent what she felt upon this subject and the next day the instant she was visible she begged an audience
Mrs Berlinton was pensive and dejected but as usual open and unguarded she began herself to speak of the visit of Bellamy and to ask why she ran away
Camilla without answer or hesitation related what she had overheard adding O Mrs Berlinton can you suffer him to talk thus Can you think of my injured Eugenia—lately your own favourite friend—and bear to hear him
How injured my everdear Camilla Does she know what he says Can it hurt her unheard Can it affect her unimagined He but solaces his sadness by a confidence he holds sacred tis the type of our friendship now dearer he says than ever since reciprocated by such sympathy
You affright me Mrs Berlinton what a perversion of reason to talk of sympathy in your situations Did Eugenia press him to the altar Did any friends solicit the alliance Oh Mrs Berlinton think but a moment and your own feeling mind will paint his conduct in colours I have not the skill to attain
You are right cried she blushing in her unwilling conviction I know not how he could delude me to believe our fates resembled Certainly nothing can be less similar
Camilla was happy in this victory but the following day Bellamy at the same hour was announced and in the same manner was admitted Camilla flying and Mrs Berlinton protesting she should attack his mistaken comparison with severity
Severity however was a quality with which she was unacquainted Camilla anxious in every way hastened to her when he was gone but found her dissolved in tender tears shed she declared in regret of the uneasiness she had given him for he had now made her fully sensible his destiny alone was to blame
The understanding of Camilla was highly superior to being duped by such flimsy sophistry which she heard with added detestation of the character of Bellamy yet perceived that no remonstrance could prevent his admittance and that every interview regularly destroyed the effect of every exhortation
In this melancholy period the sole satisfaction she received was through a letter written by Lionel from Ostend in which he told her that the dread of imprisonment or want in a foreign country made him lead a life so parsimonious so totally deprived of all pleasure and all comfort that he was almost consumed with regret for the wilfulness with which he had thrown away his innumerable advantages and so much struck with the retrospection of the wanton follies and vices which had involved him in such dishonour and ruin that he began now to think he had rather been mad than wicked—so unmeaning unreflecting and unprovoked as well as worthless had been the course he had pursued
Camilla sent this letter immediately to her Father who remitted to Lionel such a sum as must obviate distress with such intimation for the future as he hoped would best encourage more solid reformation
Thus passed the time improperly or unhappily to all till the third period fixed for the return to the country elapsed and Camilla finding the whole view of her journey abortive saw the accumulated yet useless suffering involved through her illjudged procrastination Yet as Eugenia still did not despair even her confession was unwritten and as Miss Margland and Indiana granted her request of going round by Belfont which she had previously arranged from an ardent desire to embrace her loved sister she still dwelt on a last hope from that interview
CHAPTER IV
Hints upon National Prejudice
With mingled disquietude and distaste Melmond saw the reluctance of Indiana to quit town and that he was less than a cypher with her upon the last evenings assembly where without deigning to bestow one look upon him she chatted smiled and fluttered with every one else undisguisedly betraying that he whom she should soon have alone and have always should not rob of even one precious moment this last splendid blaze of general admiration He sighed and in common with the hapless perverseness of mortals thought he had thrown away in Eugenia a gem richer than all her tribe5
Camilla whose heart however dead to joy was invariably open to tenderness was melted with fond emotions in the idea of again meeting her beloved Eugenia and ready for her journey nearly with the light
Soon after she was dressed a house maid tapping at her door said Pray Maam is Miss Lynmere with you
No
Presently Miss Margland came herself
Pray Miss Camilla do you know any thing of Miss Lynmere Its the oddest thing in the world where she can be
Camilla now went forth to aid the search Melmond who was waiting to hand her into the carriage looked amazed at the enquiry It soon however was clear that she was no where in the house and after sundry examinations and researches one of the maids was brought to confess having aided her in the middle of the night to go into the street where she was handed into a post chaise by Mr Macdersey
Melmond appeared thunder struck An action so unexpected at the period of a solemn engagement which waited but the journey to Cleves for being compleated seemed to him at first incredible But when Miss Margland exclaimed O pursue her Mr Melmond order your horse and gallop to Scotland immediately he gravely and rather drily answered By no means Maam The man who has the honour of her preference is the only one who can have any hope to make her happy I have no ambition for a hand that has been voluntarily held out to another
He then returned quietly to his own lodgings far more indignant than hurt at this abrupt conclusion of a connexion which though it had opened to him as a promise of Elysium was closing with every menace of mutual discontent
Camilla was truly concerned and not merely for the future risk run by her Cousin in this rash flight but for the new disappointment to her Uncle She was obliged however to bestow her whole attention upon Miss Margland whose tribulation was yet greater and who in losing thus her pupil lost the expected reward of near thirteen years of unwilling attendance She had by no means indeed merited this treachery from Indiana whom though incapable to instruct in much good she had sedulously guarded from all evil
To return to Sir Hugh without her charge without indeed either of the young ladies who were put under her care she had not courage Nor could Camilla so little feel for her distress as to request it An express therefore was ordered to Cleves for informing him of these ill tidings with a very elaborate panegyric from Miss Margland of her own conduct and a desire to know if she should remain in town till something transpired concerning Indiana
The express was but just gone when a packet which ought to have arrived two days before by the stage was delivered to Camilla Its intention was merely to convey more speedily a letter from Lavinia containing the terrible information that Mr Clykes had just been at Etherington himself to deliver in his accounts and press immediate payment Their Father Lavinia said conceived the whole some imposition till the man produced the paper signed by his daughter She had then been called in and obliged to confess her knowledge of the transaction She would avoid she said particulars that could be only uselessly afflicting but the interview had ended in their Fathers agreeing to pay when it should be possible the sums actually delivered to the creditors and for which Mr Clykes could produce their own receipts but refusing positively and absolutely any gratuity whatsoever from detestation of so dangerous and seductive a species of trade as clandestine and illegal moneylending to minors The man much provoked said a friend of his had been used far more handsomely by Sir Hugh Tyrold but finding his remonstrances vain acknowledged the law against him for the interest but threatened to send in an account for his own trouble in collecting and paying the bills that he would dispute for validity in any court of justice to which he could be summoned and in leaving the house he menaced an immediate writ if all he could legally claim were not paid the next day unless a new bond were properly signed with a promise to abide by that already drawn up Their Father she was forced to confess had now lent his every guinea for the debts of Clermont to Sir Hugh and was at this instant deliberating to whom he should apply but desired meanwhile an exact statement of the debts which this man had in commission to discharge The letter concluded with Lavinias unfeigned grief in the task of writing it
Camilla read it with a distraction that made it wholly unintelligible to her yet could not read it a second time her eyes became dim her faculties confused and she rather felt deprived of the power of thinking than filled with any new and dreadful subjects for rumination
In this state the letter on the floor her eyes staring around yet looking vacant and searching nothing she was called to Lord OLerney who begged the honour of a conference with her upon business
She shook her head in token of denial but could not speak The servant looked amazed yet brought her a second message that his Lordship was extremely sorry to torment her but wished to communicate something concerning Mr Macdersey
She then faintly articulated I can see nobody
Still the same dreadful vacuity superseded her sensibility till soon after she received a note from Lady Isabella Irby desiring to be admitted to a short conversation with her upon the part of Lord OLerney
With the name of Lady Isabella Irby recurred the remembrance that she was a favourite of Edgar—and bursting into tears she consented to the interview which took place immediately
The terrible state in which she appeared was naturally though not justly attributed by her ladyship to the elopement of her Cousin while Camilla called by her sight to softer regrets beheld again in mental view the loved and gentle image of Edgar
Lady Isabella apologised politely but briefly for her intrusion saying My Lord OLerney whose judgment is never in any danger but where warped by his wish of giving pleasure insists upon it that you will be less incommoded by a quick forced admission of me than of himself Nobody else will think so but it is not easy to refuse him so here I am The motive of this intrusion you can but too readily divine Lord OLerney is truly concerned at this rash action in his kinsman which he learnt by an accidental call at his lodgings where various circumstances had just made it known He could not rest without desiring to see some part of the young ladys family and making an offer of his own best services with respect to some arrangement for her future establishment It is for this purpose you have been so importunately hurried Lord OLerney wishing to make the first news that is sent to Sir Hugh Tyrold less alarming by stating at once what he can communicate concerning Mr Macdersey
Camilla who only now recollected that Mr Macdersey was related to Lord OLerney was softened into some attention and much gratitude for his goodness and for her Ladyships benevolence in being its messenger
Will you then said Lady Isabella now you understand the purport of his visit see Lord OLerney himself He can give you much better and clearer documents than I can and it is always the best and shortest mode to deal with principals
Camilla mechanically complied and Lady Isabella sent her footman with a note to his Lordship who was waiting at her house in Parklane
The discourse still fell wholly upon Lady Isabella Camilla lost alternately in misery and absence spoke not heard not yet former scenes though not present circumstances were brought to her mind by the object before her and almost with reverence she looked at the favourite of Edgar in whose sweetness of countenance good sense delicacy and propriety she conceived herself reading every moment the causes of his approbation Ah why thought she while unable to reply or to listen to what was said why knew I not this charming woman while yet he took an interest in my conduct and connexions Perhaps her gentle wisdom might have drawn me into its own path how would he have delighted to have seen me under such influence how now even now—lost to him as I am—would he generously rejoice could he view the condescending partiality of looks and manner that seem to denote her disposition to kindness
Lord OLerney soon joined them and after thanking Camilla for granting and his Ambassadress for obtaining him an audience said I have been eager for the honour of a conference with Miss Tyrold in the hope of somewhat alleviating the fears for the future that may naturally join with displeasure for the present from the very unadvised step of this morning But however wrong the manner in which this marriage may be effected the alliance in itself will not I hope be so disadvantageous as matches of this expeditious character prove in general The actual possessions of Macdersey are indeed far beneath what Miss Lynmere with her uncommon claims might demand but his expectations are considerable and well founded and his family will all come forward to meet her with every mark of respect for which as its head I shall lead the way He is honest honourable and good natured not particularly endowed with judgment or discretion but by no means wanting in parts though they are rather wild and eccentric
His Lordship then gave a full and satisfactory detail of the present state and future hopes of his kinsman and added that it should be his own immediate care to endeavour to secure for the fair bride a fixed settlement from the rich old cousin who had long promised to make Macdersey his heir He told Camilla to write this without delay to the young ladys Uncle with full leave to use his name and authority
At all times he continued it is necessary to be quick and as explicit as possible in representing what can conciliate an adventure of this sort of which the clandestine measure implies on one side if not on both something wrong but most especially it is necessary to use speed where the flight is made with an Hibernian for with the English in general it is nearly enough that a man should be born in Ireland to decide him for a fortunehunter If you lived however in that country you would see the matter pretty equally arranged and that there are not more of our pennyless beaux who return laden with the commodity of rich wives than of those better circumstanced who bring home wives with more estimable dowries
He then added that it was from Miss Lynmere herself he had learnt the residence of Camilla in Grosvenor Square for having made some acquaintance with her at one of Mrs Berlintons evening parties he had heard she was a niece of Sir Hugh Tyrold and immediately enquired after her fair kinswoman whom he had seen at Tunbridge
Camilla thanked him for remembering her and Lady Isabella with a countenance that implied approbation in the remark said I have never once heard of Miss Tyrold at the assemblies of this house
She quietly replied she had never been present at them but a look of sensibility with which her eyes dropt spoke more than she intended of concern at their existence or at least frequency
Your lovely young Hostess said Lord OLerney has entered the world at too early an hour to be aware of the surfeit she is preparing herself by this unremitting luxury of pleasure but I know so well her innocence and good qualities that I doubt not but the error will bring its own cure and she will gladly return to the literary and elegant intercourse which she has just now given up for one so much more tumultuous
I am glad you still think so my Lord said Lady Isabella also looking down she is a very sweet creature and the little I have seen of her made me while in her sight warmly her wellwisher Nevertheless I should rather see any young person for whom I was much interested—unless endowed with the very remarkable forbearance of Miss Tyrold—under her influence after the period your Lordship expects to return than during its interregnum
Camilla disavowed all claim to such praise blushing both for her friend and herself at what was said Lord OLerney looking concerned paused and then answered You know my partiality for Mrs Berlinton yet I always see with fresh respect the courage with which my dear Lady Isabella casts aside her native reserve and timidity where she thinks a hint—an intimation—may do good or avert dangers
His eye was then fixed upon Camilla who surprized turned hastily to Lady Isabella and saw a tender compassion in her countenance that confirmed the interpretation of Lord OLerney joined with a modest confusion that seemed afraid or ashamed of what had escaped her
Grateful for herself but extremely grieved for the idea that seemed to have gone forth of Mrs Berlinton she felt a tear start into her eye She chaced it with as little emotion as she could shew and Lord OLerney with an air of gayer kindness said As we must now Miss Tyrold account ourselves to be somewhat allied you permit me I hope to recommend my gallant Cousin to your protection with Sir Hugh That he has his share of the wildness the blunders the eccentricities and the rhodomontade which form with you English our stationary national character must not be denied but he has also what may equally I hope be given us in the lump generosity spirit and good intentions With all this
He was here interrupted the door being suddenly burst open by Mrs Mittin who entered exclaiming Lord Miss what a sad thing this is I declare its put me quite into a quiver And all Winchesters quite in an uproar as one may say You never see how every bodys in a turmoil
Here ended the little interval of horrour in Camilla Mrs Mittin and Mr Clykes seemed to her as one yet that already her Cousins elopement should have spread so near home seemed impossible When she cried were you in Winchester And how came this affair known to you
Known why my dear Miss it was there it all happened I come through it with Mr Dennel who was so obliging as to bring me to town for a little business Ive got to do and next week hell take me back again for as to poor little Mrs Lissin shell be quite lost without me She dont know her right hand from her left as one may say But how should she poor child Why she is but a baby Whats fifteen And shes no more
Well talk of that said Camilla colouring at her loquacious familiarity some other time And attempted to beg Lord OLerney would finish what he was saying But Mrs Mittin somewhat affronted cried Lord only think of your sitting here talking and making yourself so comfortable just as if nothing was the matter when every body else is in such a taking as never was the like I must say as to that a gentleman more liked and in more respect never was I believe and I cant say but what Im very sorry myself for what Mr Clykes has done however I told you you know youd best not provoke him for though there cant be a better sort of man hell leave no stone unturned to get his money
For Heavens sake cried Camilla startled what
What Why Lord Miss dont you know your Papas took up Hes put in Winchester Prison for that debt you know
The breath of Camilla instantly stopt and senseless lifeless she sunk upon the floor
Lord OLerney quitted the room in great concern to call some female assistants but Lady Isabella remained contributing with equal tenderness and judgment to her aid though much personally affected by the incident
Her recovery was quick but it was only to despair to screams rather than lamentations to cries rather than tears Her reason felt the shock as forcibly as her heart the one seemed tottering on its seat the other bursting its abode Words of alarming incoherency proclaimed the danger menacing her intellects while agonies nearly convulsive distorted her features and writhed her form
Unaffectedly shocked yet not venturing upon so slight an acquaintance to interfere Lady Isabella uttered gently but impressively her good wishes and concern and glided away
The nearly distracted Camilla saw not that she went and knew no longer that she had been in the room She held her forehead one moment called for death the next and the next wildly deprecated eternal punishment But as the horrour nearly intolerable of this first abrupt blow gave way the desire of flying instantly to her Father was the symptom of restored recollection
Hastening then to Miss Margland she conjured her by all that was most affecting to set off immediately for Winchester But Miss Margland though she spared not the most severe attacks upon the already selfcondemned and nearly demolished Camilla always found something relative to herself that was more pressing than what could regard any other and declared she could not stir from town till she received an answer from Sir Hugh
Camilla besought at least to have the carriage but of this she asserted herself at present the indisputable mistress and as the express might come back in a few hours with directions that she should set off immediately she would not listen to parting with it Camilla frantic to be gone flew then down stairs and called to the porter in the hall that some one should instantly seek her a chaise coach or any conveyance whatever that could carry her to Winchester
She perceived not that Lady Isabella waiting for her footman who had accidentally gone on further upon some message now opened the door of the parlour where Lord OLerney was conversing with her upon what had happened she was flying back though not knowing whither nor which way she turned when Lord OLerney gently stopping her asked why she would not on such an emergence apply for the carriage of Mrs Berlinton Lady Isabella seconded the motion by a soft but just hint of the danger of her taking such a journey in a hired carriage entirely unprotected
She had scarce consideration enough left to either thank or understand them yet mechanically followed their counsel and went to Mrs Berlinton Lord OLerney deeply touched by her distress sending in a servant at the same time with his name and following while Lady Isabella too much interested to go till something was decided quietly shut herself into the parlour there to wait his Lordships information
The request for the carriage was indeed rather made by him than by Camilla who when she entered the room and would have spoken found herself deprived of the power of utterance and looked a picture of speechless dismay
The tender feelings of Mrs Berlinton were all immediately awakened by this sight and she eagerly answered Lord OLerney that both her carriage and herself should be devoted to her distressed friend yet the first emotion over she recollected an engagement she could not break though one she hesitated to mention and at last only alluded to unexplained though making known it was insurmountable while the colour of which her late hours had robbed her lovely cheeks returned to them as she stammered her retractation
The next day however she was beginning to promise—but Camilla to whom the next minute seemed endless flew down again to the hall to supplicate the first footman she could meet to run and order any sort of carriage he could find with but barely sufficient recollection to refrain running out with that view herself
Lady Isabella again coming forth entreated to know if there were any commission any possible service she could herself perform Camilla thanked her without knowing what she said and Lord OLerney who was descending the stairs repeated similar offers But wild with affright or shuddering with horrour she passed without hearing or observing him
To see a young creature in a state so deplorable and to consider her as travelling without any friend or support in so shaken a condition to visit an imprisoned Father touched these benign observers with the sincerest commiseration and the connexion of a part of his family forming at this moment with a branch of her own induced Lord OLerney to believe he was almost bound to take care of her himself And yet said he to Lady Isabella though I am old enough to be her grandfather the world should I travel with her might impute my assistance to a species of admiration which I hope to experience no more—as witness my trusting myself so much with Lady Isabella Irby
Lady Isabella from the quick coincidence of similar feelings instantly conceived his wishes and paused to weigh their possibility A short consideration was sufficient for this purpose It brought to her memory her various engagements but it represented at the same time to her benevolence that they would be all by the performance of one good action
More honourd in the breach than the observance
She sent therefore a message after Camilla entreating a short conference
Camilla who was trying to comprehend some further account from Mrs Mittin silently but hastily obeyed the call and her look of wild anguish would have fixed the benign intention of Lady Isabella had it been wavering In a simple phrase but with a manner the most delicate her Ladyship then offered to conduct her to Winchester A service so unexpected a goodness so consoling instantly brought Camilla to the use of her frightened away faculties but with sensations of gratitude so forcible that Lord OLerney with difficulty saved her from falling at the feet of his amiable friend and with yet more difficulty restrained his own knees from doing her that homage And still the more strongly he felt this active exertion from the disappointment he had just endured through the failure of his favourite Mrs Berlinton
No time was to be lost Lady Isabella determined to do well what she once undertook to do at all she went to Parklane to make known her excursion and arrange some affairs and then instantly returned in her own postchaise and four horses for Camilla who was driven from the metropolis
CHAPTER V
The Operation of Terror
Lady Isabella for the first two or three miles left Camilla uninterruptedly to her own thoughts she then endeavoured to engage her in some discourse but was soon forced to desist Her misery exceeded all measure of restraint all power of effort Her Father in prison and for her own debts The picture was too horrible for her view yet too adhesive to all her thoughts all her feelings all her faculties to be removed from them a moment Penetrated by what she owed to Lady Isabella she frequently took her hand pressed it between her own pressed it to her lips but could shew her no other gratitude and force herself to no other exertion
It was still early they travelled post and with four horses and arrived at Winchester before eight oclock
Shaking she entered the town half fainting half dead Lady Isabella would have driven straight on to Etherington which was but a stage further but to enter the rectory whence the Rector himself was torn—No cried she no there where abides my Father there alone will I abide No roof shall cover my head but that which covers his I have no wish but to sink at his feet—to crawl in the dust—to confine myself to the hardest labour for the remnant of my miserable existence so it might expiate but this guilty outrage
Lady Isabella took not any advantage of the anguish that was thus bursting forth with secret history she was too delicate and too good to seize such a moment for surprising confidence and only enquired if she had any friend in the town who could direct her whither to go and accompany as well as direct
She knew no one with sufficient intimacy to endure presenting herself to them upon such an occasion and preferred proceeding alone to the sad and cruel interview Lady Isabella ordered the chaise to an hotel where she was shewn into a room upstairs whence she sent one of her own servants to enquire out where debtors were confined and if Mr Tyrold were in custody charging him not to name from whom or why he came and begging Camilla to get ready a note to prepare her Father for the meeting and prevent any affecting surprise She then went to chuse herself a chamber determined not to quit her voluntary charge till she saw her in the hands of her own friends
Camilla could not write to kneel to weep to sue was all she could bear to plan to present to him the sight of her hand writing she had not courage
Presently she heard a chaise drive rapidly through the inn gate it might be him perhaps released she flew down the stairs with that wild hope but no sooner had descended them than a dread of his view took its place and she ran back she stopt however in the landing place to hear who entered
Suddenly a voice struck her ear that made her start that vibrated quick to her heart and there seemed to arrest the springs of life she thought it the voice of her Mother——
It ceased to speak and she dropt on one knee inwardly but fervently praying her senses might deceive her
Again however and more distinctly it reached her doubt then ceased and terrour next to horrour took its place What was said she knew not her trepidation was too great to take in more than the sound
Prostrate she fell on the floor but hearing a waiter say Up stairs madam you may have a room to yourself She started rose and rushing violently back to the apartment she had quitted bolted herself in exclaiming I am not worthy to see you my Mother I have cast my Father into prison—and I know you will abhor me
She then sat down against the door to listen if she were pursued she heard a footstep a female step she concluded it that of her Mother She can come cried she but to give me her malediction And flew frantic about the room looking for any means of escape yet perceiving only the window whence she must be dashed to destruction
She now heard a hand upon the lock of the door O that I could die that I could die she cried madly advancing to the window and throwing up the sash yet with quick instinctive repentance pulling it down shuddering and exclaiming Is there no death for me but murder—no murder but suicide
A voice now found its way through her cries to her ear that said It is me my dear Miss Tyrold will you not admit me
It was Lady Isabella but her Mother might be with her she could not however refuse to open the door though desperately she said to herself If she is there I will pass her and rush into the streets
Seeing however Lady Isabella alone she dropt on her knees ejaculating Thank Heaven thank Heaven one moment yet I am spared
What is it my dear Miss Tyrold said Lady Isabella that causes you this sudden agony what can it be that thus dreadfully disorders you
Is she with you cried she in a voice scarce audible does she follow me does she demand my Father
Rise dear madam and compose yourself If you mean a Lady whom this minute I have passed and whose countenance so much resembles yours that I thought her at once some near relation she is just gone from this house
Thank Heaven thank Heaven again ejaculated the prostrate Camilla My Mother is spared a little longer the dreadful sight of all she must now most abominate upon earth
She then begged Lady Isabella instantly to order the chaise and return to town
On the contrary answered her Ladyship extremely surprised at so wild a request Let me rather myself carry you to your family
O no Lady Isabella no cried Camilla speaking with frightful rapidity and shaking in every limb all now is changed I came to wait upon my Father—to humble myself at his feet—not to obtrude myself upon my Mother—O Lady Isabella—I shall have broken her heart—and I dare not offend her with my sight
Lady Isabella with the most judicious gentleness endeavoured to render her more reasonable I pretend not she said to decide upon your situation though I comprehend its general affliction yet still and at all events its termination must be a meeting Suffer me therefore rather to hasten than retard so right a measure Allow of my mediation and give me the infinite pleasure of leaving you in the hands of your friends
Camilla though scarcely able to articulate her words declared again the motive to her journey was at an end that her Father had now one to watch soothe and attend him who had none of her dreadful drawbacks to consoling powers and that she would remain at Mrs Berlintons till summoned home by their immediate commands
Lady Isabella began pleading their own rights to decide if or not the meeting should be deferred but wildly interrupting her You know not she cried what it is you ask I have not nerves I have not hardiness to force myself into such a presence An injured Father an offended Mother O Lady Isabella if you knew how I adore—and how I have ruined them
Let me go to them from you myself let me represent your situation They are now probably together That Lady whom I saw but from the stairs though her countenance so much struck me and whom I now conclude to be Mrs Tyrold said as she passed I shall walk I only want a guide—
They had not then even met cried Camilla starting up with fresh horrour she is but just arrived—has but just been at Etherington—and there heard—that her husband was in prison—and in prison for the debts of her daughter her guilty perhaps reprobated daughter—
Again wringing her hands half distracted O that the earth she cried had received me ere I quitted the parental roof Innocent I had then died beloved regretted—no shame would have embittered my Fathers sorrow—no wrath my Mothers—no culpable misconduct would have blighted with disgrace their so long—long wishedfor meeting
The compassionating yet judicious Lady Isabella willing to shorten the sufferings she pitied made yet another effort to prevent this unadvised return by proposing they should both sleep this night at Winchester that Camilla might gather some particulars of her family and some composure for herself to better judge what step to pursue But all desire of meeting was now converted into horrour she was too much known in the neighbourhood to escape being recognized if she stayed till the morning and her shattered intellects she declared could not bear passing a whole night in expectation of a discovery through some accident Have I not already cried she heard her voice and fled its sound Judge then Lady Isabella if I can present myself before her No I must write first I have a long and dreadful history to relate—and then when she has heard it—and when the rectory has again its reverend master—and when they find some little palliation where now they can see only guilt—and when all is committed without disguise to their goodness—their mercy—they may say to me perhaps themselves Unhappy Camilla thou hast paid thy just penalty come home then to thy parents roof thou penitent child
Lady Isabella knew too little of the characters with which she had to deal to judge if it would be right to insist any further she ordered therefore fresh horses to her chaise and as soon as her footman came back who brought the now useless direction where Mr Tyrold was to be found they galloped out of Winchester
At Alton they stopt to sleep and her immediate terrour removed she became more sensible of what she owed to Lady Isabella to whom in the course of the evening she recounted frankly the whole history of her debts except what related to Lionel
Your Ladyship hears me said she in conclusion with the patience of benevolence though I fear with the censure of all judgment What evils have accrued from want of consideration and foresight My errours have all been doubled by concealment—every mischief has been augmented by delay O Lady Isabella how sad an example shall I add to your powers of benign instruction—From day to day from hour to hour I planned expedients where I ought to have made confessions To avoid one dreadful—but direct evil what I have suffered has been nearly intolerable—what I have inflicted unpardonable
Lady Isabella much touched by her openness and confidence repaid them by all that compassion could suggest or that a sincere disposition towards esteem could anticipate of kindness She gathered the amount of the sum for which Mr Tyrold was confined and besought Camilla to let it less weigh upon her spirits as she could herself undertake that Lord OLerney would accommodate him with it immediately and wait his perfect leisure for repayment I have known him said she from a child and have always seen with respect and admiration the prompt pleasure with which he rather seizes than accepts every opportunity to do good
Camilla returned the most grateful thanks but acknowledged she had no apprehension but that the writ would immediately be withdrawn as the county was almost filled with friends to her Father who would come forward upon such an occasion What rests thus upon my mind said she and what upon his—and upon my Mothers will rest—is the disgrace—and the cause the one so public the other so clandestine And besides though this debt will be easily discharged its payment by a loan is but incurring another and how that is to be paid I know not indeed Alas Lady Isabella—the Father I have thus dreadfully involved has hitherto throughout his exemplary life held it a sacred duty to adapt his expences to his income
Again Lady Isabella gave what consolation she could bestow and in return for her trust said she would speak to her with sincerity upon a point of much delicacy It was of her friend Mrs Berlinton who now said she you are not perhaps aware is become a general topic of discourse To the platonics with which she set out in life she has of late joined coquetry nor even there stops the ardour with which she seeks to animate her existence to two characters hitherto thought the most contradictory the sentimental and the flirting she unites yet a third till now believed incompatible with the pleasures and pursuits of either this I need not tell you is that of a gamestress And when to three such attributes is added an open aversion to her husband a professed an even boasted hatred of his person his name his very being—what hope can be entertained be her heart her intentions what they may that the various dangers she sets at defiance will not ultimately take their revenge and surprise her in their trammels
Edgar himself seemed to Camilla to be speaking in this representation and that idea made it catch her attention in the midst of her utmost misery She urged however all she knew and could suggest in favour of Mrs Berlinton and Lady Isabella expressed much concern in occasioning her any painful sensations But who said she can see you thus nearly and not be interested in your happiness And I have known alas—though I am still under thirty instances innumerable of self-deluded young women who trusting to their own pure intentions have neither feared nor heeded the dangers which encircled them till imperceptibly from the insidious influence of levity they have pursued the very course they began with disclaiming and followed the very steps from which at first they unaffectedly recoiled
Instructed and grateful though incapable of being tranquillised Camilla the next day reached Grosvenor Square long before her fair friend had left her downy pillow Lady Isabella exacted a promise to be informed of her proceedings and loaded with merited acknowledgments returned to her own mansion
Camilla took possession of the first room in which she found a pen and ink and wrote instantly to Lavinia a short rapid and incoherent letter upon the distraction of her mind at the dreadful calamity she had occasioned her Father and the accumulated horrours to which her Mother had returned She durst not present herself before them uncalled not even by letter but she would live in the strictest retirement and penance till they ordered her home for which epoch not more longed for than dreaded she besought her sisters mediation
This sent off she forced herself to wait upon Miss Margland who had received an answer from Cleves to continue in town till Indiana wrote or reappeared She was put immediately into uncommon goodhumour by the ill success at the journey of Camilla which she protested was exactly what she expected
Camilla then strove to recollect all she had been told by Lord OLerney of Mr Macdersey and to relate it to Miss Margland who pleased and surprised undertook to write it to Sir Hugh
To three days of dreadful suspense she now saw herself inevitably condemned in waiting an answer from Lavinia but as her eyes were opened to remark by the admonitions of Lady Isabella and her attention was called back to the earlier cautions of Edgar her time though spent with misery hung not upon her unoccupied She thought herself called upon by every tie of friendship faithfully and courageously to represent to Mrs Berlinton her impropriety of conduct with regard to Bellamy and the reports that were spread abroad to her more general disadvantage
Her reception from that Lady she had thought for the first time cold She had welcomed her indeed with an accustomed embrace but her kindness seemed strained her smile was faint and the eyes which so softly used to second it were averted
As soon as they were alone together Camilla took her hand but without returning its pressure Mrs Berlinton presented her with a new poem for her evenings amusement
Camilla put it down but while hesitating how to begin Bellamy was announced She started and flew away but returned when he was gone and begged a conference
Mrs Berlinton answered certainly though she looked embarrassed and added not immediately as she was obliged to dress for the evening
Camilla entreated she might speak with her before dinner the next day
To this she received a gentle assent but no interview at the time appointed took place and when at dinner they met no notice was taken of the neglect
She now saw she was pointedly avoided Her courage however was called upon her gratitude was indebted for past kindnesses and her honour felt a double engagement The opportunity therefore she could not obtain by request she resolved to seize by surprise
Bellamy was again however announced but the moment that from her own chamber she heard him descend the stairs she flew to the dressingroom and abruptly entered it
The surprise she gave was not greater than that she received Mrs Berlinton her fine eyes streaming with tears and her white hands uplifted with an air of supplication was evidently in an act of devotion Camilla drew back and would have retired but she hastily dried her eyes and said Miss Tyrold Do you want me wheres Miss—Miss Margland
Ah my dearest Mrs Berlinton my friend as I had hoped and by me surely I trust loved for ever cried Camilla throwing her arms round her neck why this sorrow why this distance why this unkind avoidance
Mrs Berlinton who at first had shrunk from her embrace now fell in trembling agitation upon her breast Camilla hoped this was the instant to improve when she appeared to be herself calling religion to her aid and when the tenderness of her appeal seemed to bring back a movement of her first partiality Suffer suffer me she therefore cried to speak to you now hear me my dear and amiable friend with the sweetness that first won my affection
Mrs Berlinton affrighted drew back acknowledging herself unhappy but shrinking from all discourse and starting when Camilla named Bellamy with a confusion she vainly strove to repress
Unhackneyed in the world as was Camilla her understanding and sense of right stood here in the place of experience, to point out the danger and impropriety surrounding her friend and catching her by the gown as she would have quitted the room Mrs Berlinton she emphatically cried if you persist in this unhappy this perilous intercourse you risk your reputation you risk my sisters peace you risk even your own future condemnation—O forgive me forgive me I see how I have affected you—but you would listen to no milder words
Mrs Berlinton had sunk upon a chair her hands clasped upon her forehead and tears running rapidly down her cheeks Brought up with religious terrours yet ill instructed in religious principles the dread of future punishment nearly demolished her though no regular creed of right kept her consistently or systematically in any uniform exercise of good But thus forcibly surprised into sudden conscientious recollections she betrayed rather than opened her heart and acknowledged that she was weeping at a denial she had given to Bellamy who molested by the impossibility of ever conversing with her undisturbed had entreated her to grant him from time to time a few hours society in a peaceful retirement Nor should I—nor could I— she cried refuse him—for I have every reliance in his honour—but that the guilty world ignorant of the purity of our friendship might causelessly alarm my brother for my fame And this and the fear of any—though so groundless—uneasiness to your sister makes me resist his powerful eloquence and even my own notions of what is due to our exalted league of friendship
Camilla listened with horrour to this avowal yet saw with compassion that her friend endeavoured to persuade herself she was free from wrong though with censure that she sought to gloss over rather than investigate every doubt to the contrary but while fear was predominant for the event of such a situation to herself abhorrence filled her whole mind against Bellamy in every part every plan and every probability of the business
O Mrs Berlinton she cried conquer this terrible infatuation which obscures danger from your sight and right from your discernment Mr Bellamy is married and if you think yourself my sister would be hurt to know of these unhallowed leagues and bonds you must be sure with the least reflection that they are wrong you too are married and if Mr Melmond would join with the world in contemning the extraordinary project you mention you must feel with the least reflexion it ought not to be granted Even were you both single it would be equally improper though not so wide spreading in its mischief I have committed many errours yet not one of them wilfully or against conviction nevertheless the ill consequences that have ensued tear me at this moment with repentant sorrow—Ah think then what you—so tender so susceptible so feeling will suffer if with your apprehensions all awake you listen to any request that may make my sister unhappy or involve your deserving brother in any difficulty or hazard
Mrs Berlinton was now subdued Touched terrified and convinced she embraced Camilla wept in her arms and promised to see Bellamy no more
The next day arrived an answer from Lavinia long minute and melancholy but tenderly affectionate and replete with pity
Ah my sister she began we cannot yet meet Our Mother is in no state to bear any added emotion The firmness of her whole character the fortitude of her whole life hitherto unbroken by any passion and superior to any misfortune have both given way suddenly and dreadfully to the scene following her arrival
She then went back to particulars
Mr Clykes she had heard finding his bill for his own trouble positively refused had conceived the Tyrold family in danger of bankruptcy by the general rumours of the joint claimants of Lionel and Clermont and imagining he had no time to lose hoped by an arrest to frighten their Father to terms in order to obviate the disgrace of such a measure Their Father would however hear of none nor pay any thing above the exact amount of the signed receipts of the various creditors and submitted to the confinement in preference to applying to any friend to be his bail till he could consult with a lawyer He was already at Winchester where he had given Clykes a meeting when the writ was served against him He sent a dispatch to Etherington to prevent any surprise at his not returning and to desire the affair might not travel to Cleves where Lavinia was then with Sir Hugh This note addressed to the upper servant fell into the hands of Mrs Tyrold herself the next evening upon her sudden arrival She had been thus unexpectedly brought back by the news of the flight of Bellamy with Eugenia her brother was still ill but every consideration gave way to the maternal and in the hope to yet rescue her daughter from this violator she set off in a packet which was just sailing But what upon descending from the chaise was the horrour of her first news She went on instantly to Winchester and alighting at an hotel took a guide and went to the place of confinement
The meeting that ensued continued Lavinia no one witnessed but everyone may imagine I will not therefore wound your feelings my dearest Camilla with even touching upon my own The impression however left upon the mind of our poor Mother I should try vainly to disguise since it has given her a shock that has forced from me the opening of this letter
She then besought her to take nevertheless some comfort since she had the unspeakable satisfaction to inform her that their Father was returned to the rectory He had been liberated from the writs being withdrawn though without his consent without even his knowledge and contrary to his wishes Nor was it yet ascertained by whom this was done though circumstances allowed no division to their conjectures
Harry Westwyn had learnt the terrible event in a ride he had accidentally taken to Winchester and upon returning to Cleves had communicated it with the most feeling circumspection to herself The excess of grief with which she had heard him had seemed to penetrate to his quickly sensitive soul for he is yet more amiable she added than his Fathers partiality paints him they agreed not to name it to Sir Hugh though Harry assured her that no less than five gentlemen in the vicinity had already flown to Mr Tyrold to conjure to be accepted as his bail but he chose first to consult his lawyer upon the validity of the claim made against him All their care however was ineffectual through some of the servants Sir Hugh was informed of the affair and his affliction was despair He accused himself as being the cause of this evil from the money he had borrowed for Clermont which might wholly have been avoided had he followed his brothers advice in immediate and severe retrenchments These however he now began in a manner that threatened to rob him of every comfort and Mr Westwyn was so much affected by his distress that to relieve him at least from the expence of two guests and their servants he instantly took leave promising nevertheless to yet see him again before he returned for the rest of his days to his native home In a few hours after the departure of these gentlemen news arrived that Mr Tyrold was again at the rectory Mr Clykes had suddenly sent his receipt in full of all demands and then set off for London
There cannot be a doubt this was the deed of the generous Mr Westwyn in compact with his deserving Son continued Lavinia they have been traced to Winchester but we none of us know where at present to direct to them The delight of my Uncle at this act of his worthy old friend has extremely revived him My Father is much dissatisfied the wretched Clykes should thus be paid all his fraudulent claims but my Mother and my Uncle would I believe scarce have supported life under his longer confinement
The letter thus concluded
My Mother when first she heard you were in town was herself going to send for you but when she understood that Miss Margland was with you and you lived in utter seclusion from company she said Since she is safe I had rather not yet see her Our beloved Father acquiesces for he thinks you at present too much shaken as well as herself for so agitating an interview till her mind is restored to its usual firmness Judge then my sister since even he is for the delay if your Lavinia can gather courage to plead against it
You know my dearest Camilla her extreme and tender fondness you cannot therefore doubt but her displeasure will soon pass away But when to the dreadful pangs of finding the hapless fate of Eugenia irremediable was added the baneful sight of an adored Husband in custody you cannot wonder such complicate shocks should have disordered her frame and taught her—even her as my imcomparable Father has just said to me that always to be superior to calamity demands a mental strength beyond the frail texture of the human composition though to wish and to try for it shews we have that within which aspires at a higher state and prepares us for fuller perfection
Can I better finish my letter than with words such as these Adieu then my dear sister I hope soon to write more cheerful tidings
Our poor Mother is gone to Belfont What a meeting again there
Lavinia Tyrold
A wish for death immediate death in common with every youthful mourner in the first paroxysm of violent sorrow was the sole sensation which accompanied the reading or remained after the finishing of this letter with Camilla Here she cried falling prostrate here might I but at once expire close these unworthy eyes forbidden to raise themselves to the authors of my existence finish my short and culpable career forgotten—since no longer cherished—by the parents I have offended—by the Mother who no longer wishes to see me
She laid down her head and her sight became dim a convulsive shivering from feelings overstrained and nerves dreadfully shattered seized her she sighed short and quick and thought her prayer already accomplishing but the delusion soon ceased she found life still in its vigour though bereft of its joy and death no nearer to her frame for being called upon by her wishes
In the heaviness of disappointment I have lived she cried too long and yet I cannot die I am become an alien to my family and a burthen to myself ordered from my home by my Father lest my sight should be destructive to my Mother—while my sister durst not even plead for me O happy Edgar how great has been thy escape not to have taken for thy wife this excommunicated wretch—
To live thus seemed to her impossible to pass even the day in such wretchedness she believed impracticable Any every period appeared to her preferable and in the desperation of her heart she determined instantly to pursue her Mother to Belfont and there by the gentle intercession of Eugenia to obtain her pardon or which she thought immediately would follow its refusal to sink to death at her feet
Relieved from the intenseness of her agony by this plan and ever eager to pursue the first idea that arose she flew to borrow from Mrs Berlinton her postchaise for the next morning and to supplicate that Miss Margland would accompany her to Belfont whence if she missed Mrs Tyrold they could easily return the same day as the distance was not more than thirteen miles
The chaise was accorded promptly by Mrs Berlinton and no regret expressed at the uncertainty of Camilla whether or not she should return but Miss Margland though burning with curiosity to see Eugenia as Mrs Bellamy would not quit town from continual expectation of some news of Indiana
At an early hour the following morning and feeling as if suspended but by a thread between life and death Camilla set off for Belfont
CHAPTER VI
The Reverse of a Mask
The plan of Camilla was to stop within twenty yards of the house of Bellamy and then send for Molly Mill But till she gave this direction to the driver she was not aware of the inconvenience of being without a servant which had not previously occurred either to Mrs Berlinton or herself The man could not leave his horses and she was compelled to let him draw up to the gate There when he rang at a bell her terrour lest she should suddenly encounter Mrs Tyrold made her bid him open the chaise door that she might get out and walk on before he enquired for Molly But in stepping from the carriage she discerned over a paling at some distance Eugenia herself alone slowly walking and her head turned another way
Every personal and even every filial idea was buried instantly in this sight The disastrous state of this beloved and unhappy sister and her own peculiar knowledge of the worthless character of the wretch who had betrayed her into his snares penetrated her with an anguish that took thought from all else and darting through the great gate and thence through a smaller one which opened to the spot where she saw her walking she flew to her in a speechless transport of sorrow folded her in her arms and sobbed upon her shoulder
Starting shaking amazed Eugenia looked at her Good Heaven she exclaimed is it my Sister—Is it Camilla—Do I indeed see one so dear to me And too weak to sustain herself she sunk though not fainting upon the turf
Camilla could not articulate a syllable The horrour she had conceived against Bellamy chilled all attempt at consolation and her own misery which the preceding moment seemed to be crushing the springs of life vanished in the agonized affection with which she felt the misfortunes of her sister
Eugenia soon recovered and rising and holding her by the hand yet seeming to refuse herself the emotion of returning her embraces said with a faint effort to smile You have surprised me indeed my dear Camilla and convicted me to myself of my vain philosophy I had thought I should never more be moved thus again But I see now the affections are not so speedily to be all vanquished
The melancholy conveyed by this idea of believed apathy in a young creature so innocent and but just dawning into life still beyond speech and nearly beyond sufferance affected Camilla who hanging over her sighed out My dearest dearest Eugenia
And what is it has brought to me this unexpected but loved sight Does Mr Bellamy know you are here
No she answered shuddering at his name
Eugenia looked pensive looked distressed and casting down her eyes and hesitating with a deep sigh said I I have not the trinkets for my dear Sister Mr Bellamy she stopt
Called to her sad self by this shock of which she strove to repress the emotion Camilla recollected her own almost blunted purpose6 and fearfully asked if their Mother were yet at Belfont
Ah no she answered clasping her hands and leaning her head upon her sisters neck She is gone—The day before yesterday she was with me—with me only for one hour—yet to pass with her such another I think my dear Camilla would soon lead me where I might learn a better philosophy than that I so vainly thought I had already acquired here
Camilla struck with awe ventured not even at an enquiry and they both for some little time walked on in silence
Did she name to you at length in broken accents she asked did she name to you my Eugenia the poor banished Camilla——
Banished No How banished
She did not mention me
No She came to me but upon one subject She failed in her purpose and left me
A sigh that was nearly a groan finished this short little speech
Ah Heaven my Eugenia cried Camilla now in agony unresisted tell me then what passed what new disappointment had my unhappy Mother to sustain And how and by what cruel fatality has it fallen to your lot even to yours to suffer her wishes to fail
You know nothing then said Eugenia after a pause of her view—her errand hither
Nothing but that to see you brought her not only hither but to England
Blessed may she be cried Eugenia fervently and rewarded where rewards are just and are permanent
Camilla zealously joined in the prayer yet besought to know if she might not be informed of the view to which she alluded
We must go then said Eugenia into the house my poor frame is yet feebler than my mind and I cannot support it unaided while I make such a relation
Camilla affrighted now gave up her request but the generous Eugenia would not leave her in suspense They went therefore to a parlour where shutting the doors and windows she said I must be concise for both our sakes and when you understand me we must talk instantly of other things
Camilla could give only a tacit promise but her air shewed she would hold it sacred as any bond
The idea which brought over this inestimable Parent and which brought her at a moment when she knew me to be alone to this sad house these sad arms Camilla how shall I speak it It was to exonerate me from my vows as forced to annul all my engagements as compulsatory and to restore me again O Camilla Camilla to my Parents my Sisters my Uncle my dearlyloved Cleves
She gasped almost convulsively yet though Camilla now even conjured her to say no more went on A proposal such as this pressed upon me by one whose probity and honour hold all calamity at nought if opposed to the most minute deviation from right—a proposal such as this ah let me not go back to the one terrible half instant of demur It was heartrending it was killing I thought myself again in the bosom of my loved family—
And is it so utterly impossible And can it not yet be effected—
No my dear Sister no The horrible scenes I must go through in a public trial for such a purpose—the solemn vows I must set aside the reiterated promises I must break——no my dear Sister no And now we will speak of this no more
Camilla knew too well her firmness her enthusiasm to perform whatever she conceived to be her duty to enter into any contest Yet to see her thus self devoted where even her upright Mother and pious Father those patterns of resignation to every heaveninflicted sorrow thought her ties were repealed by the very villainy which had formed them seemed more melancholy and yet harder for submission than her first seizure by the worthless Bellamy
And how bore my poor Mother my poor unfortunate Mother destined thus to woes of every sort though from children who adore her—how bore she the deprivation of a hope that had brought her so far
Like herself nobly when once it was decided and she saw that though upon certain avowals the law might revoke my plighted faith it could not abrogate the scruples of my conscience She thinks them overstrained but she knows them to be sincere and permitted them therefore to silence her Unfit to be seen by any others she hurried then away And then Camilla began my trial Indeed I thought when she had left me when my arms no more embraced her honoured knees and neither her blessings nor her sorrows soothed or wounded my ears I thought I might defy all evil to assault all woe to afflict me ever again that my eyes were exhausted of every tear and my heart was emptied of all power of future feeling I seemed suddenly quite hardened—transformed I thought to stone as senseless as immovable and as cold
The sensations of Camilla were all such as she durst not utter but Eugenia assuming some composure added Of this and of me now enough—speak my dear Sister of yourself How have you been enabled to come hither And what could you mean by saying you were banished
Alas my dearest Eugenia if my unhappy situation is unknown to you why should I agitate you with new pain my Mother I find spared you and not only you but me—though I have wrung her heart tortured it by a sight never to be obliterated from her memory—she would not rob me of my beloved sisters regard nor even name me lest the altered tone of her voice should make you say Of what Camilla does my Mother speak
Eugenia with earnest wonder begged an explanation but when Camilla found her wholly uninformed of the history of their Fathers confinement she recoiled from giving her such a shock yet having gone too far entirely to recede she rested the displeasure of their Mother upon the debts and the dealings with a usurer both sufficiently repugnant to the strictness and nobleness of Mrs Tyrold to seem ample justification of her displeasure
Eugenia entered into the distresses of her sister as if exempt herself from all suffering and Camilla thus commiserating and commiserated knew now how to tear herself away for though Eugenia pressed not her stay she turned pale when a door opened a clock struck or any thing seemed to prognosticate a separation and looked as if to part with her were death
At length however the lateness of the day forced more of resolution But when Camilla then rang to give orders for the carriage the footman said it had been gone more than two hours The postillion being left without any directions thought it convenient to suppose he was done with and knowing Camilla had no authority and his lady no inclination to chide him had given in her little packet and driven off without enquiry
Far from repining at this mixture of impertinence and carelessness Camilla would have rejoiced in an accident that seemed to invite her stay had not her sister seemed more startled than pleased by it She begged therefore that a post chaise might be ordered and Molly Mill the only servant to whom the mistress of the house appeared willing to speak received the commission At sight of Camilla Molly had cried bitterly and beginning O Miss— seemed entering into some lamentation and detail but Eugenia checking her half whispered Good Molly remember what you promised
When Molly came back she said that there were no horses at Belfont and would be none till the next morning
The sisters involuntarily congratulated one another upon this accident though they reciprocated a sigh that to necessity alone they should owe their lengthened intercourse
But my dear mistress cried Molly theres a lad that I know very well for I always see him when I go of an errand thats going to Salisbury and he says he must go through Etherington and if youve any thing you want to send hell take it for you and he can bring any thing back for he shall be here again to morrow for he goes post
Eugenia sending away Molly said Why should you not seize such an opportunity to address a few lines to our dear Mother I may then have the satisfaction to see her answer and if as I cannot doubt she tells you to return home with Miss Margland—for she will not I am sure let you travel about alone—what a relief will it be to me to know the distresses of my beloved sister are terminated I shall paint your meeting in my minds eye see you again restored to the sunshine of her fondness and while away my solitary languor with reveries far more soothing than any that I have yet experienced at Belfont
Camilla embraced her generous Sister and always readiest for what was speediest wrote these lines directed
To Miss Tyrold
I cannot continue silent yet to whom may I address myself I dare not apply to my Father—I scarce dare even think of my Mother—Encompassed with all of guilt with which imprudence could ensnare me my courage is gone with my happiness which way may I then turn In pity to a wretched sister drop O Lavinia at the feet of her I durst not name but whom I revere if possible even more than I have offended this small and humble memorial of my unhappy existence—my penitence my supplication my indescribable though merited anguish
Camilla
Could the two sisters even in this melancholy state have continued together they felt that yet from tender sympathy consolation might revisit their bosoms The day closed in but they could not bear to part and though from hour to hour they pronounced an adieu they still sat on talked on and found a balm in their restored intercourse so healing and so sweet that the sun though they hailed not its beams rose while they were yet repeating Good Night
They then thought it too late to retire mutually agreeing with how much greater facility they might recover their lost rest than an opportunity such as this for undisturbed conversation
Every minute of this endearing commerce made separation seem harder and the answer for which they waited from Etherington anxiously and fearfully as it was expected so whiled away the minutes that it was noon and no chaise had been ordered when they heard one driving up to the house
Alarmed they listened to know what it portended Mr Bellamy said Eugenia in a low voice scarce ever comes home at this hour
Can it be my Mother herself cried Camilla
In a few minutes however Eugenia looked pale Tis his step she whispered and presently Bellamy opened the door
Obliged to acknowledge his entrance Camilla arose but her parched lips and clammy mouth made her feel as if his sight had given her a fever and she attempted not to force any speech
He did not seem surprized at seeing her asked how she did rather cavalierly than civilly rang the bell and gave various orders addressed scarce a word to his wife and walked whistling about the room
A change so gross and quick from the obsequious Bellamy Camilla had hitherto seen was beyond even her worst expectations and she conceived as low an opinion of his understanding and his manners as of his morals
Eugenia kept her eyes rivetted to the ground and though she tried from time to time to say something to them both evidently required her utmost fortitude to remain in the room
At length Miss Camilla he said I suppose you know Miss Margland is gone
Gone whither—how gone
Why home That is to her home as she thinks it Cleves She set off this morning with the light
Camilla astonished was now called forth from her taciturnity What possibly she cried can have induced this sudden journey Has my uncle sent for her
No your uncle has nothing to do with it She had a letter last night from Mrs Macdersey with one enclosed for Sir Hugh to beg pardon and so forth and this morning she set off to carry it
Camilla was confounded Why Miss Margland had not at least called at Belfont to enquire if she would proceed with her was beyond all her conjecture
Soon after Bellamys servant came in with a letter for Camilla which had arrived after she left town and was given to him by Mrs Berlintons butler She retired into the next room to read it where to her great consternation she found it was from Jacob and had been written the day of Mr Tyrolds arrest though as it was sent by a private hand it had only now arrived Things going he said so bad at Cleves on account of so many misfortunes his master was denying himself all his natural comforts and in particular he had sent to unorder a new pipe of Madeira saying he would go without though as Miss might remember it was the very wine the doctors had ordered for his stomach This all the servants had taken so to heart that they had resolved to buy it among em and get it privately laid in and not let his honour know but what it was always the same till he had drunk so much he could not help himself For this they were to join according to their wages or savings Now I says Jacob being by his gud honnurs genrosty the ritchist ammung us fur my kalling wants to do the most after nixt to the buttlur and huskippir so der Miss awl Ive gut beng in the funs witch I cant sil out withowt los if you can lit me have the munny fur the hurs without ullconvenince til Miss Geny that was can pay it I shul be mutch obbleggd poor Miss Geny nut hawing of a fardin witch wil be a gret fevur to Madm
Yur humbbel survent til deth
Jaccub Mord
So touching a mark of the fond gratitude of the Cleves servants to their kind master mingled tenderness in defiance of all horrour in the tears of Camilla but her total inability to satisfy the just claims of Jacob since now her resource even in Eugenia failed with the grief of either defeating his worthy project or making it lastingly hurtful to him was amongst the severest strokes which had followed her ill advised schemes To proclaim such an additional debt was a shame from which she shrunk yet to fly immediately to Cleves and try to soothe her oppressed uncle was an idea that still seemed gifted with some power to soothe herself Whither indeed else could she now go she had no longer either carriage or protectress in town and what she gathered of the readmission of Bellamy to Grosvenorsquare made the cautions and opinions of Edgar burst forcibly upon her mind to impede though most mournfully all future return to Mrs Berlinton
A pliancy so weak or so wilful seemed to announce in that lady an almost determined incorrigibility in wrong however it might be checked in its progress by a mingled love of right and a fear of ill consequences
Ah Edgar she cried had I trusted you as I ought from the moment of your generous declaration—had my confidence been as firm in your kindness as in your honour what misery had I been saved—from this connexion—from my debts—from every widespreading mischief—I could then have erred no more for I should have thought but of your approvance
These regrets were as usual resuming their absorbing powers—for all other evils seemed fluctuating but here misery was stationary when the voice of Bellamy speaking harshly to his unhappy wife and some words she unavoidably caught by which she found he was requesting that she would demand money of Sir Hugh made her conclude him not aware he was overheard and force herself back to the parlour But his inattention upon her return was so near rudeness that she soon felt convinced Mrs Berlinton had acquainted him with her remonstrances and ill opinion he seemed in guilty fear of letting her converse even a moment with Eugenia and presently though with an air of pretended unconcern said You have no commands for the chaise I came in Miss Camilla
No Sir What chaise Why she stammered
Its difficult sometimes to get one at this place and these horses are very fresh I bid them stay till they asked you
This was so palpable a hint for her to depart that she could not but answer she would make use of it when she had taken leave of her sister whom she now looked at with emotions near despair at her fate and with difficulty restrained even its most unbridled expressions But Bellamy kept close and no private conference could take place Eugenia merely said Which way my dear sister shall you go
I I am not fixed—to to Cleves I believe answered she scarce knowing herself what she said
I am very glad of it she replied for the sake of my poor— she found her voice falter and did not pronounce uncle but added as Miss Margland has already left London I think you right to go thither at once it may abridge many difficulties and with posthorses you may be there before it is dark
They then embraced tenderly but parted without any further speech and she set off rather mechanically than designedly for Cleves
CHAPTER VII
A New View of an old Mansion
Camilla for some time bestowed no thought upon what she was doing nor whither she was going A scene so dreadful as that she now quitted and a character of such utter unworthiness as that with which her sister for life was tied absorbed her faculties and nearly broke her heart
When she stopt however at Bagshot for fresh horses the obligation of giving directions to others made her think of herself and bewildered with uncertainty whether the step she took were right or wrong she regretted she had not at least desired to stay till the answer arrived from Etherington Yet her journey had the sanction of Eugenias concurrence and Eugenia seemed to her oracular
When she came upon the cross road leading from Winchester to Cleves and felt her quick approach to the spot so loved yet dreaded the horses seemed to her to fly Twenty times she called out to the driver not to hurry who as often assured her the bad roads prevented any haste she wanted to form some appropriate plan and speech for every emergence but she could suggest none for any She was now at the feet of her Mother now kissing the hands of her Father now embraced again by her fond uncle—and now rejected by them all But while her fancy was at work alternately to soothe and to torture her the park lodge met her eyes with still no resolution taken
Vehemently she stopt the chaise To drive in through the park would call a general attention and she wished ere her arrival were announced to consult alone with Lavinia She resolved therefore to get out of the carriage and run by a private path to a small door at the back of the house whence she could glide to the chamber commonly appropriated to her sister
She told the postillion to wait and alighting walked quick and fearfully towards the lodge
She passed through the parkgate for foot passengers without notice from the porter It was twilight She saw no one and rejoiced in the general vacancy Trembling but with celerity she skimmed like her celebrated namesake the turf and annoyed only by the shadows of the trees which all as first they caught her eye seemed the precursors of the approach of Mrs Tyrold speedily reached the mansion but when she came to the little door by which she meant to enter she found it fastened
To the front door she durst not go from the numerous chances by which she might surprise some of the family in the hall and to present herself at the servants gate would have an appearance degrading and clandestine
She recollected at last the sashdoor of a bowwindow belonging to a room that was never occupied but in summer Thither she went and knowing the spring by which it could be opened on the outside let herself into the house
With steps not to be heard and scarce breathing she got thence into a long stone passage whence she meant to mount the back stairs
She was relieved by not meeting anyone in the way though surprised to hear no footsteps about the house and no voices from any of the apartments
Cautiously she went on looking round at every step to avoid any sudden encounter but when she came to the bedchamber gallery she saw that the door of the room of Sir Hugh by which she must necessarily pass was wide open
It was possible he might be in it she had not courage to pass her sight thus unprepared after so many heavy evils might be too affecting for his weak frame She turned short round and entered a large apartment at the head of the stairs called the billiardroom where she resolved to wait and watch ere she ventured any further
Its aspect was to the front of the house she stole gently to a window whence she thought the melancholy of her own mind pervaded the park None of her uncles horses were in sight no one was passing to and fro and she looked vainly even for the housedog who ordinarily patrolled before the mansion
She ventured to bend forwarder to take a view of the side wings these however presented not any sight more exhilarating nor more animated Nothing was in motion no one was visible not even a fire blazed cheerfulness
She next strove to catch a glance of the windows belonging to the chamber of Eugenia but her sigh though sad was without surprise to see their shutters shut Those of Indiana were closed also How mournfully cried she is all changed what of virtues are gone with Eugenia what of beauty with Indiana the one so constantly interesting the other looking always so lovely—
But deeper still was her sigh since mingled with selfreproach to perceive her own chamber also shut up Alas she cried my poor uncle considers us all as dead to him She durst not lean sufficiently forward to examine the drawingroom in which she concluded the family assembled but she observed with wonder that even the library was not open though it was still too light for candles and Dr Orkborne who usually sat there from the forgetfulness of application was the last to demand them
The fear of discovery was now combated by an anxiety to see some one—any one and she returned to the passage All there was still quiet and she hazarded gliding past the open door though without daring to look into the room but when she came to the chamber of Lavinia which she softly entered all was dark and it was evidently not in present use
This was truly distressful She concluded her sister was returned to Etherington and knew not to whom to apply for counsel or mediation She no longer however feared meeting her parents who certainly had not made her sister quit Cleves without themselves and after a little hesitation relying upon the ever sure lenity of her uncle she determined to cast herself upon his kindness but first to send in a short note to avoid giving him any surprise
She returned down the gallery meaning to apply for pen and ink to the first person she could find she could only she knew meet with a friend unless by ill fortune she should encounter Miss Margland the way to whose apartment she sedulously shunned
No longer however quite so cautious she stopt near the chamber of Sir Hugh and convinced by the stillness it was empty could not resist stepping into the apartment
It looked despoiled and forsaken Nothing was in its wonted order his favourite guns hung not over the chimneypiece the corners of the room were emptied of his sticks his great chair was in a new place no cushions for his dogs were near the fire the bedstead was naked
She now felt petrified she sunk on the floor to ejaculate a prayer for his safety but knew not how to rise again for terrour nor which way next to turn nor what even to conjecture
Thus she remained till suspense grew worse than certainty and she forced herself from the room to seek some explanation It was possible the whole family residence might be changed to the back front of the house She descended the stairs with almost equal apprehension of meeting any one or seeing no one The stone passage was now nearly dark It was always the first part of the house that was lighted as its windows were small and high but no preparations were now making for that purpose She went to the housekeepers room which was at the foot of the stairs she had descended The door was shut and she could not open it She tried repeatedly but vainly to be heard by soft taps and whisperings no one answered
Amazed confounded she turned slowly another away not a soul was in sight not a sound within hearing Every thing looked desolate all the family seemed to be vanished
Insensibly yet irresistibly she now moved on towards the drawingroom The door was shut She hesitated whether or not to attempt it She listened She hoped to catch the voice of her uncle but all was inviolably still
This was the only place of assembling in the evening but her uncle might have dropt asleep and she would not hazard startling him with her presence She would sooner go to the hall at once and be announced in the common way by a servant
But what was her astonishment in coming to the hall to find neither servant light nor fire and the marble pavement covered with trunks packing mats straw ropes and boxes Terrified and astonished she thought herself walking in her sleep She could combine no ideas either good or bad to account for such a scene and she looked at it bewildered and incredulous
After a long hesitation spent in wonder rather than thought she at length determined to enter the breakfast parlour and ring the bell when the distant sound of a carriage that was just entering the park made her shut herself into the room hastily but silently
It advanced rapidly she trembled it was surely she thought her Mother
When it drove up to the portico and she heard the housebell ring she instinctively barred her door but finding no one approach to the call while the bell was impatiently rerung her strong emotions of expectation were taking her again into the hall but as her hand was upon the lock of the door a light glimmered through the key hole She heard some step advancing and precipitately drew back
The halldoor was now opened and a man enquired for a young lady just come from Alresford
Theres no young lady here at all was the answer in the voice of Jacob
Finding it only her own driver she ventured out crying O Jacob where is my dear uncle
Jacob was at first incapable of all answer through surprise at her strange appearance but then said O Miss Camilla youll go nigh to break your good heart when you knows it all But how youve got into the house is what I cant guess but I wish for my poor masters sake it had been before now
Horrour crept through every vein of Camilla in the explanation she awaited of this fearful mystery She motioned to the driver to stay returned back to the parlour and beckoned for she could not speak to Jacob to follow her
When he came and shutting the door was beginning a diffuse lamentation eagerness to avert lengthened suspense recovered her voice and she passionately exclaimed Jacob in two words where is my uncle—Is he well
Why yes Miss Camilla considering— he began but Camilla whose fears had been fatal interrupted him with fervent thanksgiving till she was called back from joy by the following words
Hes gone away Miss Camilla gone Lord knows where given up all his grand housekeeping turned off almost all his poor servants left this fine place to have it let to whoever will hire it and is going to live he says in some poor little lodging till he can scrape together wherewithal to pay off every thing for your papa
A thunderbolt that had instantly destroyed her would gratefully have been received in preference to this speech by Camilla who casting up her hands and eyes exclaimed Then am I the most detestable as well as the most wretched of human beings My Father I have imprisoned—my Uncle I have turned from his house and home and for thee O my Mother—this is the reception I have prepared
Jacob tried to console her but his account was only added torture
The very instant he told her that his master had received the news of the arrest of Mr Tyrold he determined upon this violent plan and though the so speedy release through the generosity of Mr Westwyn had exceedingly calmed his first emotions he would not change his purpose and protested he would never indulge himself in peace nor comfort more till he had cleared off their joint debts of which he attributed the whole fault to himself from having lived up to the very verge of his yearly income when he ought he said considering there were so many young people to have always kept a few odd sums at hand for accidents We all did what we could continued Jacob to put him off from such a thing but all to no purpose but if youd been here Miss Camilla youd have done more with him than all of us put together but he called Miss Lavinia and all of us up to him and said to us I wont have nobody tell this to my poor little girl meaning you Miss Camilla till Ive got somewhere settled and comfortable because of her kind heart says he
Tenderness so partial at so suffering an instant almost killed Camilla O Jacob she cried where is now my dear generous uncle I will follow him in this chaise rushing out as she spoke I will be his servant his nurse and attend him from morning to night
She hurried into the carriage as she spoke and bade him give directions to the postillion But when she heard he was at present only at Etherington whence he was seeking a new abode her head drooped and she burst into tears
Jacob remained he said alone to take care of all the things and to shew the place to such as might come
Miss Margland had been at the house about three hours ago and had met Sir Hugh who had come over to give directions about what he would have packed up and he had read a letter from Miss Indy that was and had forgiven her but he was sore vexed Miss Margland had come without Miss Camilla only she said Miss Camilla was at Mrs Bellamys and she did not call because she thought it would be better to go back again and see more about Miss Indy and so bring Miss Camilla next time so she wheedled his master to spare the chaise again and let her go off directly to settle every thing to Miss Indys mind
Camilla now repented she had not returned to Mrs Berlintons there notwithstanding all objections to have waited her recall since there her parents still believed her and thence under the protection of Miss Margland would in all probability summon her To present herself after this barbarous aggravation of the calamities she had caused undemanded and unforgiven at Etherington she thought impossible She enquired if by passing the night at Cleves she might have any chance of seeing her uncle the next day Jacob answered no but that Mr Tyrold himself with a gentleman from Winchester who thought of hiring the house were to be there early in the morning to take a survey of the premises
A meeting thus circumstanced with her Father at a moment when he came upon so direful a business as parting with a place of which she had herself occasioned the desertion seemed to her insupportable and she resolved to return immediately to Belfont to see there if her answer from Lavinia contained any new directions and if not to again go to London and await final commands without listening ever more to any hopes projects or judgments of her own
Beseeching the worthy Jacob to pardon her nonpayment with every kind assurance that her uncle should know all his goodness she told the postillion to take her to Belfont
He could go no further he said and that but a foot pace than to Alresford Jacob marvelled but blessed her and Camilla ejaculating Adieu dear happy Cleves was driven out of the park
CHAPTER VIII
A Last Resource
To leave thus a spot where she had experienced such felicity to see it naked and forlorn despoiled of its hospitality bereft of its master—all its faithful old servants unrewarded dismissed in disgrace to have reentered its pales and in terrour to quit them—to fly even the indulgent Father whose tenderness had withstood every evil with which errour and imprudence could assail him set her now all at war with herself and gave her sensations almost maddening She reviewed her own conduct without mercy and though misery after misery had followed every failing all her sufferings appeared light to her repentant sense of her criminality for as criminal alone she could consider what had inflicted misfortunes upon persons so exemplary
She arrived at Alresford so late with the return horses that she was forced to order a room there for the night
Though too much occupied to weigh well her lonely and improper situation at an inn and at such hours she was too uneasy to go to bed and too miserable for sleep She sat up without attempting to read write or employ herself patrolling her chamber in mournful rumination
Nearly as soon as it was light she proceeded and arrived at the house of Bellamy as the servants were opening the windowshutters
Fearfully she asked who was at home and hearing only their mistress sent for Molly Mill and enquired for the answer from Etherington but the lad had not yet brought any She begged her to run to the inn to know what had detained him and then ordering the chaise to wait went to her sister
Eugenia was gently rejoiced to see her though evidently with encreased personal unhappiness Camilla would fain have spared her the history of the desertion of Cleves but it was an act that in its own nature must be public and she had no other way to account for her so speedy return
Eugenia heard it with the most piercing affliction and in the fulness of her heart from this new blow acknowledged the rapacity of Bellamy and the barbarity with which he now scrupled not to avow the sordid motives of his marriage cruelly lamenting the extreme simplicity with which she had been beguiled into a belief of the sincerity and violence of his attachment For myself however she continued I now cease to murmur How can misfortune personally cut me deeper But with pity indeed I think of a new victim
She then put into her sisters hand a written paper she had picked up the preceding evening in her room and which having no direction and being in the handwriting of Mrs Berlinton she had thought was a former note to herself accidentally dropt but the first line undeceived her
I yield at length O Bellamy to the eloquence of your friendship on Friday—at one oclock I will be there—as you appoint
Camilla almost petrified read the lines She knew better than her sister the plan to which this was the consent which to have been given after her representations and urgency appeared so utterly unjustifiable that with equal grief and indignation she gave up this unhappy friend as wilfully lost and her whole heart recoiled from ever again entering her doors
Retracing nevertheless her many amiable qualities she knew not how without further effort to leave her to her threatening fate and determined at all risks to put her into the hands of her brother whose timely knowledge of her danger might rescue her from public exposure She wrote therefore the following note
To Frederic Melmond Esq
Watch and save—or you will lose your sister
CT
His address from frequently hearing it was familiar to her she went herself into the hall to give the billet to a footman for the postoffice She would not let her sister have any share in the transaction lest it should afterwards by any accident be known though to give force to her warning she risked without hesitation the initials of her own name
The repugnance nevertheless to going again to Mrs Berlinton pointed out no new refuge and she waited with added impatience for the answer from Etherington in hopes some positive direction might relieve her cruel perplexity
The answer however came not and yet greater grew her distress Molly Mill brought word that when the messenger who was a postboy returned he was immediately employed to drive a chaise to London The people at the inn heard him say something of wanting to go to Squire Bellamys with a letter but he had not time He was to come back however at night
To wait till he arrived seemed now to them both indispensable but while considering at what hour to order the chaise they heard a horseman gallop up to the housedoor Is it possible it should already be Mr Bellamy cried Eugenia changing colour
His voice loud and angry presently confirmed the suggestion Eugenia trembling said she would let him know whom he would find and went into the next room where as he entered he roughly exclaimed What have you done with what I dropt out of my pocketbook
There Sir she answered in the tone of firmness given by the ascendance of innocence over guilt There it is but how you can reconcile to yourself the delusions by which you must have obtained it I know not I hope only for her sake and for yours such words will never more meet my eyes
He was beginning a violent answer in a raised voice when Eugenia told him her sister was in the next room
He then in a lowered tone said I warrant you have shewn her my letter
The veracious Eugenia was incapable of saying no and Bellamy unable to restrain his rage though smothering his voice through his shut teeth said I shall remember this I promise you However if she dare ever speak of it you may tell her from me I shall lock you up upon bread and water for the rest of your life and lay it at her door I have no great terms to keep with her now What does she say about Cleves and that fool your uncle who is giving up his house to pay your fathers debts What has brought her back again
She is returning to Grosvenorsquare to Miss Margland
Miss Margland Theres no Miss Margland in Grosvenorsquare nor any body else that desires her company I can tell her However go and get her off for I have other business for you
Eugenia then opening the door found her sister almost demolished with terrour and dismay Silently for some seconds they sunk on the breast of each other horrour closing all speech drying up even their tears
You have no message to give me Camilla at length whispered I have perforce heard all and I will go—though whither—
She stopt with a look of distress so poignant that Eugenia bursting into tears while tenderly she clung around her said My sister my Camilla from me—from my house must you wander in search of an asylum
Bellamy here called her back Camilla entreated she would inquire if he knew whither Miss Margland was gone
He now came in himself bowing civilly though with constraint and told her that Miss Margland was with Mrs Macdersey at Macderseys own lodgings but that neither of them would any more be invited to Grosvenorsquare after such illtreatment of Mrs Berlintons brother
Can you thought Camilla talk of illtreatment while turning to her sister she said Which way shall I now travel
Bellamy abruptly asked if she was forced to go before dinner but not with an air of inviting any answer
None could she make she looked down to save her eyes the sight of an object they abhorred embraced Eugenia who seemed a picture of death and after saying adieu added If I knew whither you thought I should go—that should be my guide
Home my dearest sister
Drive then she cried hurrying to the chaise to Etherington
Bellamy advancing said with a smile I see you are not much used to travelling Miss Camilla and gave the man a direction to Bagshot
She began now to feel nearly careless what became of her her situation seemed equally desolate and disgraceful and in gloomy despondence when she turned from the high road and stopt at a small inn called the halfwayhouse about nine miles from Etherington she resolved to remain there till she received her expected answer ardently hoping if it were not yielding and favourable the spot upon which she should read it would be that upon which her existence would close
Alighting at the inn which from being upon a cross road had little custom and was scarce more than a large cottage she entered a small parlour discharged her chaise and ordered a man and horse to go immediately to Belfont
Presently two or three gentle tappings at the door made her though fearfully say Come in A little girl then with incessant low courtesies appeared and looking smilingly in her face said Pray maam ant you the Lady that was so good to us
When my dear what do you mean
Why that used to give us cakes and nice things and gave em to Jen and Bet and Jack and that would not let my dad be took up
Camilla now recollected the eldest little Higden the washerwomans niece and kindly enquired after her father her aunt and family
O they all does pure now My dads had no more mishaps and he hopes please God to get on pretty well
Sweet hearing cried Camilla all my purposes have not then been frustrated
With added satisfaction she learnt also that the little girl had a good place and a kind mistress She begged her to hasten the Belfont messenger giving her in charge a short note for Eugenia with a request for the Etherington letter She had spent nothing in London save in some small remembrances to one or two of Mrs Berlintons servants and though her chaisehire had now almost emptied her purse she thought every expence preferable to either lengthening her suspense or her residence on the road
In answer to the demand of what she would be pleased to have she then ordered tea She had taken no regular meal for two days and for two nights had not even been in bed But the wretchedness of her mind seemed to render her invulnerable to fatigue
The shaken state of her nerves warped all just consideration of the impropriety of her present sojourn Her judgment had no chance where it had her feelings to combat and in the despondence of believing herself parentally rejected she was indifferent to appearances and desperate upon all other events nor was she brought to any recollection till she was informed that the messenger who she had concluded was half way to Belfont could not set out till the next morning this small and private inn not being able to furnish a man and horse at shorter warning
To pass a second night at an inn seemed even in the calculations of her own harassed faculties utterly improper and thus driven to extremity she forced herself to order a chaise for home though with a repugnance to so compulsatory a meeting that made her wish to be carried in it a corpse
The tardy prudence of the character naturally rash commonly arrives but to point repentance that it came not before The only pair of horses the little inn afforded were now out upon other duty and would not return till the next day
Almost to herself incredible seemed now her situation She was compelled to order a bed and to go up stairs to a small chamber but she could not even wish to take any rest I am an outcast she cried to my family my Mother would rather not see me my Father forbears to demand me and he—dearer to me than life—by whom I was once chosen has forgotten me—How may I support my heavy existence? and when will it end
Overpowered nevertheless by fatigue in the middle of the night she lay down in her cloaths but her slumbers were so broken by visions of reproach conveyed through hideous forms and in menaces the most terrific that she gladly got up preferring certain affliction to wild and fantastic horrours
Nearly as soon as it was light she rang for little Peggy whose Southampton anecdotes had secured her the utmost respect from the mistress of the inn and heard that the express was set off
Dreadful and dreary in slow and lingering misery passed the long interval of his absence though his rapid manner of travelling made it short for the ground he traversed She had now however bought sufficient experience to bespeak a chaise against his return The only employment in which she could engage herself was conversing with Peggy Higden who she was glad to find could not remember her name well enough to make it known through her pronunciation
From the window at length she perceived a man and horse gallop up to the house She darted forth exclaiming Have you brought me any answer And seizing the letter he held out saw the handwriting of Lavinia and shut herself into her room
She opened it upon her knees expecting to find within some lines from her Mother none however appeared and sad and mortified she laid down the letter and wept So utterly then she cried have I lost her Even with her pen will she not speak to me How early is my life too long
Taking up again then the letter she read what follows
To Miss Camilla Tyrold
Alas my dear sister why can I not answer you according to our mutual wishes My Father is at Winchester with a lawyer upon the affairs of Indiana and my Mother is abroad with my uncle upon business which he has asked her to transact but even were she here could I while the man awaits intercede have you forgotten your ever fearful Lavinia All that she dares shall be done—but that you may neither think she has been hitherto neglected nor let your hopes expect too much speed from her future efforts I am painfully reduced to own to you what already has passed But let it not depress you you know when she is hurt it is not lightly but you know also where she loves her displeasure once passed is never allowed to rise again
Yesterday I saw her looking at your picture the moment seemed to be happy and I ventured to say Ah poor Camilla but she turned to me with quickness and cried Lament rather Lavinia your Father Did he merit so little trust from his child that her affairs should be withheld from him till they cast him where I found him Dread memorable sight—when may I forget it
Even after this my dear Camilla I hazarded another word she will be miserable I said my dear Mother till she returns She will return she answered with Miss Margland This is no season for any expence that may be avoided and Camilla most of all must now see the duties of œconomy Were her understanding less good I should less heavily weigh her errours but she sets it apart to abandon herself to her feelings Alas poor thing they will now themselves be her punishers Let her not however despond tell her when you write her angelic Father forgives her and tell her she has always had my prayers and will ever have my blessing—though I am not eager as yet to add to her own reproaches those she may experience from my presence
I knew not how to introduce this to my dearest Camilla but your messenger and his haste now forces me to say all and say it quick He brings I find the letter from Belfont where already we had heard you were removed through Miss Margland much to the approbation of my Father and my Mother who hope your sojourn there is a solace to you both Adieu my dearest sister—your messenger cannot wait
Lavinia Tyrold
She will not see me then cried Camilla she cannot bear my sight O Death let me not pray to thee also in vain
Weak from inanition confused from want of sleep harassed with fatigue and exhausted by perturbation she felt now so ill that she solemnly believed her fatal wish quick approaching
The landlord of the inn entered to say that the chaise she had ordered was at the door and put down upon the table the bill of what she had to pay
Whither to turn what course to take she knew not though to remain longer at an inn while persuaded life was on its wane was dreadful yet how present herself at home after the letter she had received what asylum was any where open to her
She begged the landlord to wait and again read the letter of Lavinia when startled by what was said of abandoning herself to her feelings she saw that her immediate duty was to state her situation to her parents She desired therefore the chaise might be put up and wrote these lines
I could not unhappily stay at Eugenias nor can I return to Mrs Berlinton I am now at the halfwayhouse where I shall wait for commands My Lavinia will tell me what I may be ordered to do I am ill—and earnestly I pray with an illness from which I may rise no more When my Father—my Mother hear this they will perhaps accord me to be blest again with their sight the brevity of my career may to their kindness expiate its faults they may pray for me where my own prayers may be too unsanctified to be heard they may forgive me though my own forgiveness never more will quiet this breast Heaven bless and preserve them their unoffending daughters and my ever loved uncle
Camilla Tyrold
She then rang the bell and desired this note might go by express to Etherington
But this the waiter answered was impossible the horse on which the messenger had set out to Belfont though it had only carried him the first stage and brought him back the last had galloped so hard that his master would not send it out again the same day and they had but that one
She begged he would see instantly for some other conveyance
The man who was come back from Belfont he answered would be glad to be discharged as he wanted to go to rest
She then took up the bill and upon examining the sum total found with the express the chaise in which she came the last stage that which she ordered to take her to Etherington and the expence of her residence it amounted to half a crown beyond what she possessed
She had only she knew to make herself known as the niece of Sir Hugh Tyrold to be trusted by all the environs but to expose herself in this helpless and even pennyless state appeared to her to be a degradation to every part of her family
To enclose the bill to Etherington was to secure its being paid but the sentence Camilla most of all must now see the duties of œconomy made her revolt from such a step
All she still possessed of pecuniary value she had in her pocket the seal of her Father the ring of her Mother the watch of her Uncle and the locket of Edgar Mandlebert With one of these she now determined to part in preference to any new exposure at Etherington or to incurring the smallest debt She desired to be left alone and took them from her pocket one by one painfully ruminating upon which she could bear to lose It may not she thought be for long for quick I hope my course will end—yet even for an hour—even for the last final moment—to give up such dear symbols of all that has made my happiness in life—
She looked at them kissed and pressed them to her heart spoke to them as if living and understanding representatives of their donors and bestowed so much time in lamenting caresses and hesitation that the waiter came again while yet she was undetermined
She desired to speak with the mistress of the house
Instinctively she now put away the gifts of her parents but between her uncle and Edgar she wavered She blushed however at her demur and the modesty of duty made her put up the watch Taking then an agitating last view of a locket which circumstances had rendered inappreciable to her Ah not in vain she cried even now shall I lose what once was a token so bewitching Dear precious locket Edgar even yet would be happy you should do me one last kind office generously benevolently he would rejoice you should spare me still one last menacing shame—
When Mrs Marl the landlady came in deeply colouring she put it into her hand turning her eyes another way while she said Mrs Marl I have not quite money enough to pay the bill but if you will keep this locket for a security you will be sure to be paid by and by
Mrs Marl looked at it with great admiration and then with yet greater wonder at Camilla Tis pretty indeed maam she said twould be pity to sell it However Ill shew it my husband
Mr Marl soon came himself with looks somewhat less satisfied Tis a fine bauble maam cried he but I dont much understand those things and theres nobody here can tell me what its worth Id rather have my money if you please
Weakened now in body as well as spirits she burst into tears Alas she thought how little do my friends conjecture to what I am reduced She offered however the watch and the countenance of Mr Marl lost its gloom
This said he is something like A gold watch one may be sure to get ones own for but such a thing as that maynt fetch sixpence fine as it looks
Mrs Marl objected to keeping both but her husband said he saw no harm in it and Camilla begged her note might be sent without delay
A labourer after some search was found who undertook for handsome pay to carry it on foot to the rectory
CHAPTER IX
A Spectacle
The messenger returned not till midnight what then was the consternation of Camilla that he brought no answer She suspected he had not found the house she doubted if the letter had been delivered but he affirmed he had put it into the hands of a maidservant though as it was late he had come away directly and not thought of waiting for any answer
It is not very early in life we learn how little is performed for which no precaution is taken Care is the offspring of disappointment and sorrow and repentance commonly hang upon its first lessons Unused to transact any sort of business for herself she had expected in sending a letter an answer as a thing of course and had now only herself to blame for not having ordered him to stay She consoled herself however that she was known to be but nine miles distant from the rectory and that any commands could be conveyed to her nearly in an hour
What they might be became now therefore her sole anxiety Would not her Mother write After an avowal such as she had made of her desolate if not dying condition would she not pardon and embrace her Was it not even possible she might come herself
This idea mingled emotions of a contrariety scarcely supportable O how she cried shall I see her Can joy blend with such terrour Can I wish her approach yet not dare to meet her eye—that eye which never yet has looked at me but to beam with bright kindness—though a kindness that even from my childhood seemed to say Camilla be blameless—or you break your Mothers heart my poor unhappy Mother she has always seemed to have a presentiment I was born to bring her to sorrow
Expectation being now for this night wholly dead the excess of her bodily fatigue urged her to take some repose but her ever eager imagination made her apprehensive her friends might find her too well and suspect her representation was but to alarm them into returning kindness A fourth night therefore passed without sleep or the refreshment of taking off her cloaths and by the time the morning sun shone in upon her apartment she was too seriously disordered to make her illness require the aid of fancy She was full of fever faint pallid weak and shaken by nervous tremors I think she cried I am now certainly going and never was death so welcomed by one so young It will end in soft peace my brief but stormy passage and I shall owe to its solemn call the sacred blessing of my offended Mother
Tranquillised by this hope and this idea she now lost all sufferings but those of disease her mind grew calm her spirits serene all fears gave way to the certainty of soothing kindness all grief was buried in the solemnity of expected dissolution
But this composure outlived not the first hours of the morning as they vainly advanced producing no loved presence no letter no summons solicitude revived disappointment sunk her heart and dread preyed again upon her nerves She started at every sound every breath of wind seemed portentous she listened upon the stairs she dragged her feeble limbs to the parlour to be nearer at hand she forced them back again to her bedroom to strain her aching eyes out of the window but still no voice demanded her and no person approached
Peggy who repeatedly came to tell her the hour now assured her it was dinner time unable to eat she was heedless of the hint this conveyed and it obtained from her no orders till Peggy gave her innocently to understand the expectations of her host and hostess but when at five oclock the table was served all force and courage forsook her To be left thus to herself when her situation was known to be abandoned at an inn where she had confessed she thought herself dying My Mother she cried cannot forgive me my Father himself deserts me O Edgar you did well to fly so unhallowed a connexion
She left her dinner for Peggy and crawling up stairs cast herself upon the bed with a desperate supplication she might rise from it no more The time cried she is past for consolation and dead for hope my parents own prayers have been averted and their prognostics fulfilled May the dread forfeiture said my dearest Father not extend through my daughters—Alas Lionel himself has not brought upon him a disgrace such as I have done—May Heaven said my honoured Mother spare me evil under your shape at least—but under that it has come to her the most heavily
Dissolving then in sorrowing regret recollections of maternal tenderness bathed her pillow with her tears and reversing all the inducements to her sad resignation abolished every wish but to fall again at the parental feet To see cried she once more the dear authors of my being to receive their forgiveness their blessing to view again their honoured countenances—to hear once more their loved speech Alas was it I that fled the voice of my Mother That voice which till that moment had been music to my mind and never reached my ear but as the precursor of all kindness why did I not sooner at once kneel at her feet and seek my lost path under my first and best guide
Shocked and contrite in this tardy view of the step she ought to have taken she now languished to petition for pardon even for an offence unknown and rising took up a pen to relate the whole transaction But her head was confused and the attempt shewed her she was more ill than she had even herself suspected She thought all rapidly advancing and enthusiastically rejoiced
Yet a second time she took the pen but it had not touched the paper when a buzzing confused stifled sort of noise from without drew her to the window
She then perceived an immense crowd of people approaching slowly and from a distance towards the inn
As they advanced she was struck to hear no encrease of noise save from the nearer trampling of feet No voice was distinguishable no one spoke louder than the rest they seemed even to tread the ground with caution They consisted of labourers workmen beggars women and children joined by some accidental passengers yet the general hum of many was all that was heard they were silent though numerous solemn though mixt
As they came near she thought she perceived something in the midst of them like a bier and caught a glimpse of a gentlemans habit Startled she drew in but soon upon another view discerned clearly a welldressed man stretched out his full length and apparently dead
Recoiling shuddering she hastily shut the window Yet why she cried the next moment and whence this emotion Is not death what I am meeting—seeking—desiring—what I court what I pray for
She sighed walked feebly up and down the room breathed hard and with effort and then forced herself again to open the window determined to contemplate steadily the anticipating object of her fervent demand
Yet not without severe selfcompulsion she flung up again the sash but when she looked out the crowd alone remained the bier was gone
Whether carried on or brought into the house she now wished to know with some particulars of whom it might be and what belonged to so strange and horrible an appearance
She rang for little Peggy but Peggy came not She rang again but no one answered the bell She opened her door meaning to descend to her little parlour for information but the murmuring buzz she had before heard upon the road was now within the house which seemed filled with people all busy and occupied yet speaking low and appearing to partake of a general awe
She could not venture to encounter so many spectators she shut her door to wait quietly till this first commotion should be passed
This was not for more than an hour when observing from her window that the crowd was dispersed she again listened at the door and found that the general disturbance was succeeded by a stillness the most profound
She then rang again and little Peggy appeared but looking pale and much frightened
Camilla asked what had been the matter
O maam she answered crying heres been murder A gentleman has been murdered—and nobody knows who he is nor who has done it
She then related that he had been found dead in a wood hard by and one person calling another and another he had been brought to the inn to be owned
And is he here now with an involuntary shudder asked Camilla
Yes she answered but her mistress had ordered her not to own it for fear of frightening the young lady and said he would soon be carried away
The tale was shocking and though scarce conscious why Camilla desired Peggy to stay with her
The little girl was most willing but she was presently called down stairs and Camilla with strong shame of nameless fears and weak horrour strove to meditate to some use upon this scene
But her mind was disturbed her composure was gone her thoughts were broken abrupt unfixed and all upon which she could dwell with any steadiness was the desire of one more appeal to her family that yet they would consent to see her if they received it in time or that they should know in what frame of mind she expired should it bring them too late
With infinite difficulty she then wrote the following lines every bending down of her head making it ache nearly to distraction
Adieu my dearest parents if again it is denied me to see you Adieu my darling sisters my tender uncle I ask not now your forgiveness I know I shall possess it fully my Father never withheld it—and my Mother if against herself alone I had sinned would have been equally lenient would have probed but to heal have corrected but to pardon O tenderest of united partners bless then the early ashes of your erring but adoring daughter who from the moment she inflicted one wound upon your bosoms has found existence intolerable and prays now but for her earthly release
Camilla Tyrold
This she gave to Peggy with a charge that at any expence it might be conveyed to the rectory at Etherington immediately
And shall I not thought she when she had rested from this exertion and may I not at such a period with innocence with propriety write one poor word to him who was so near becoming first to me in all things
She again took her pen but had only written O Edgar in this last farewell be all displeasure forgotten—from the first to the final moment of my short life dear and sole possessor of my heart—when the shooting anguish of her head stopt her hand and hastily writing the direction lest she could write no more she with difficulty added Not to be delivered till I am dead and was forced to lie down and shut all light from her strained and aching eyes
Peggy presently brought her word that all the horses were out and every body was engaged and that the note could not possibly go till the next day
Extremely disappointed she begged to speak with Mrs Marl who sent her word she was much engaged but would wait upon her as soon as she was able
Vainly however she expected her it grew dusk she felt herself worse every moment flushed with fever or shivering with cold and her head nearly split asunder with agony She determined to go once more down stairs and offer to her host himself any reward he could claim so he would undertake the immediate delivery of the letter
With difficulty she arose with slow steps and tottering she descended but as she approached her little parlour she heard voices in it and stopt They spoke low and she could not distinguish them The door of an adjoining room was open and by its stillness empty she resolved to ring there to demand to speak with Mr Marl But as she dragged her weak limbs into the apartment she saw stretched out upon a large table the same form dress and figure she had seen upon the bier
Starting almost fainting but too much awed to call out she held trembling by the door
The bodily feebleness which impeded her immediate retreat gave force to a little mental reflexion Do I shrink thus thought she from what so earnestly I have prayed to become and so soon I must represent a picture of death
She now impelled herself towards the table A cloth covered the face she stood still hesitating if she had power to remove it but she thought it a call to her own selfexamination and though mentally recoiling advanced When close to the table she stood still violently trembling Yet she would not allow herself to retreat She now put forth her hand but it shook suspended over the linen without courage to draw it aside At length however with enthusiastic selfcompulsion slightly and fearfully she lifted it up but instantly and with instinctive horrour snatched her hand away and placed it before her shut eyes
She felt now she had tried herself beyond her courage and deeply moved was fain to retreat but in letting down her hand to see her way she found she had already removed the linen from a part of the face and the view she unintentionally caught almost petrified her
For some instants she stood motionless from want of strength to stir but with closed eyes that feared to confirm their first surmise but when turning from the ghastly visage she attempted without another glance to glide away an unavoidable view of the coat which suddenly she recognized put her conjecture beyond all doubt that she now saw dead before her the husband of her sister
Resentment in gentle minds however merited and provoked survives not the breath of the offender With the certainty no further evil can be practised perishes vengeance against the culprit though not hatred of the guilt and though with the first movement of sisterly feelings she would have said Is Eugenia then released the awe was too great his own change was too solemn He was now where no human eye could follow no human judgment overtake him
Again she endeavoured to escape the dreadful scene but her shaking limbs were refractory and would not support her The mortal being requires use to be reconciled to its own visible mortality dismal is its view grim repulsive terrific its aspect
But no sooner was her head turned from the dire object than alarm for her sister took possession of her soul and with what recollection she possessed she determined to go to Belfont
An idea of any active service invigorates the body as well as the mind. She made another effort to depart but a glance she knew not how to avoid shewed her upon the coat of the right arm and right side of this ghastly figure large splashes of blood
With horrour thus accumulate she now sunk upon the floor inwardly exclaiming He is murdered indeed and where may be Eugenia
A woman who had in charge to watch by the corpse but who had privately stolen out for some refreshment now returning saw with affright the new person in the room and ran to call Mrs Marl who alarmed also at the sight of the young lady and at her deplorable condition assisted the woman to remove her from the apartment and convey her to the chamber where she was laid down upon the bed though she resisted being undressed and was seized with an aguish shivering fit while her eyes seemed emitting sparks of fire
It is certainly now cried she over and hence I move no more
The joy with which a few minutes before she would have welcomed such a belief was now converted into an awe unspeakable undefinable The wish of death is commonly but disgust of life and looks forward to nothing further than release from worldly care—but the something yet beyond the something unknown untried yet to come the bourne whence no traveller returns to prepare succeeding passengers for what they may expect now abruptly presented itself to her consideration but came to scare not to soothe
All here she cried I have wished to leave but have I fitted myself for what I am to meet
Conscience now suddenly took the reins from the hands of imagination and a mist was cleared away that hitherto obscuring every duty by despondence had hidden from her own perceptions the faulty basis of her desire Conscience took the reins—and a mist was cleared away that had concealed from her view the cruelty of this egotism
Those friends it cried which thus impatiently thou seekest to quit have they not loved cherished reared thee with the most exquisite care and kindness If they are offended who has offended them If thou art now abandoned may it not be from necessity or from accident When thou hast inflicted upon them the severe pain of harbouring anger against what is so dear to them wouldst thou load them with regret that they manifested any sensibility of thy errours Hast thou plunged thy house in calamity and will no worthier wish occur to thee than to leave it to its sorrows and distress with the aggravating pangs of causing thy afflicting however blamable selfdesertion of coming to thee perhaps even now with mild forgiveness and finding thee a self-devoted corpse—not fallen indeed by the profane hand of daring suicide but equally selfmurdered through wilful selfneglect
Had the voice been allowed sound which spoke this dire admonition it could scarcely with more horrour or keener repentance have struck her That poor man she cried now delivering up his account by whatever hand he perished since less principled less instructed than myself may be criminal perhaps with less guilt
The thought now of her Father—the piety he had striven to inculcate into her mind his resignation to misfortune and his trust through every suffering all came home to her heart with religious veneration and making prayer succeed to remorse guided her to what she knew would be his guidance if present and she desired to hear the service for the sick
Peggy could not read Mrs Marl was too much engaged the whole house had ample employment and her request was unattainable
She then begged they would procure her a prayerbook that she might try to read herself but her eyes heavy aching and dim glared upon the paper without distinguishing the print from the margin
I am worse she cried faintly my wish comes fast upon me Ah not for my punishment let it finally arrive
With terror however even more than with malady she now trembled The horrible sight she had witnessed brought death before her in a new view She feared she had been presumptuous she felt that her preparations had all been worldly her impatience wholly selfish She called back her wish with penitence and affright her agitation became torture her regret was aggravated to remorse her grief to despair
CHAPTER X
A Vision
When the first violence of this paroxysm of sorrow abated Camilla again strove to pray and found that nothing so much stilled her Yet her faculties confused hurried and in anguish permitted little more than incoherent ejaculations Again she sighed for her Father again the spirit of his instructions recurred and she enquired who was the clergyman of the parish and if he would be humane enough to come and pray by one who had no claim upon him as a parishioner
Peggy said he was a very good gentleman and never refused even the poorest person that begged his attendance
O go to him then cried she directly Tell him a sick and helpless stranger implores that he will read to her the prayers for the dying Should I yet live they will compose and make me better—if not they will give me courage for my quick exit
Peggy went forth and she lay her beating head upon the pillow and endeavoured to quiet her nerves for the sacred ceremony she demanded
It was dark and she was alone the corpse she had just quitted seemed still bleeding in full view She closed her eyes but still saw it she opened them but it was always there She felt nearly stiff with horrour chilled frozen with speechless apprehension
A slumber feverish nearly to delirium at length surprised her harassed faculties but not to afford them rest Death in a visible figure ghastly pallid severe appeared before her and with its hand sharp and forked struck abruptly upon her breast She screamed—but it was heavy as cold and she could not remove it She trembled she shrunk from its touch but it had iced her heartstrings Every vein was congealed every stiffened limb stretched to its full length was hard as marble and when again she made a feeble effort to rid her oppressed lungs of the dire weight that had fallen upon them a voice hollow deep and distant dreadfully pierced her ear calling out Thou hast but thy own wish Rejoice thou murmurer for thou diest Clearer shriller another voice quick vibrated in the air Whither goest thou it cried and whence comest thou
A voice from within over which she thought she had no controul though it seemed issuing from her vitals low hoarse and tremulous answered Whither I go let me rest Whence I come from let me not look back Those who gave me birth I have deserted my life my vital powers I have rejected Quick then another voice assailed her so near so loud so terrible she shrieked at its horrible sound Prematurely it cried thou art come uncalled unbidden thy task unfulfilled thy peace unearned Follow follow me the Records of Eternity are opened Come write with thy own hand thy claims thy merits to mercy A repelling selfaccusation instantaneously overwhelmed her O no no no she exclaimed let me not sign my own miserable insufficiency In vain was her appeal A force unseen yet irresistible impelled her forward She saw the immense volumes of Eternity and her own hand involuntarily grasped a pen of iron and with a velocity uncontroulable wrote these words Without resignation I have prayed for death from impatience of displeasure I have desired annihilation to dry my own eyes I have left pitiless selfish unnatural a Father the most indulgent a Mother almost idolizing to weep out theirs Her head would have sunk upon the guilty characters but her eyelids refused to close and kept them glaring before her They became then illuminated with burning sulphur She looked another way but they partook of the same motion she cast her eyes upwards but she saw the characters still she turned from side to side but they were always her object Loud again sounded the same direful voice These are thy deserts write now thy claims—and next—and quick—turn over the immortal leaves and read thy doom Oh no she cried Oh no O let me yet return O Earth with all thy sorrows take take me once again that better I may learn to work my way to that last harbour which rejecting the criminal repiner opens its soft bosom to the firm though supplicating sufferer In vain again she called—pleaded knelt wept in vain The time she found was past she had slighted it while in her power it would return to her no more and a thousand voices at once with awful vibration answered aloud to every prayer Death was thy own desire Again unlicensed by her will her hand seized the iron instrument The book was open that demanded her claims She wrote with difficulty but saw that her pen made no mark She looked upon the page when she thought she had finished but the paper was blank Voices then by hundreds by thousands by millions from side to side above below around called out echoed and reechoed Turn over turn over and read thy eternal doom In the same instant the leaf untouched burst open and she awoke But in a trepidation so violent the bed shook under her the cold sweat in large drops fell from her forehead and her heart still seemed labouring under the adamantine pressure of the inflexibly cold grasp of death So exalted was her imagination so confused were all her thinking faculties that she stared with wild doubt whether then or whether now what she experienced were a dream
In this suspensive state fearing to call to move or almost to breathe she remained in perfect stillness and in the dark till little Peggy crept softly into the chamber
Certain then of her situation This has been she cried only a vision—but my conscience has abetted it and I cannot shake it off
When she became calmer and further recollected herself she anxiously enquired if the clergyman would not come
Peggy hesitatingly acknowledged he had not been sent for her mistress had imagined the request proceeded from a disturbance of mind owing to the sight of the corpse and said she was sure after a little sleep it would be forgotten
Alas said Camilla disappointed it is more necessary than ever my senses are wandering I seem hovering between life and death—Ah let not my own fearful fancies absorb this hour of change which religious rites should consecrate
She then told Peggy to plead for her to her mistress and assure her that nothing else after the dreadful shock she had received could still her mind
Mrs Marl not long after came into the room herself and enquiring how she did said if she was really bent upon such a melancholy thing the clergyman had luckily just called and would read the service to her directly if it would give her any comfort
O great and infinite comfort she cried and begged he might come immediately and read to her the prayer for those of whom there is but small hope of recovery She would have risen that she might kneel but her limbs would not second her desire and she was obliged to lie still upon the outside of the bed Peggy drew the curtains to shade her eyes as a candle was brought into the room but when she heard Mrs Marl say Come in Sir—and heres the prayerbook overpowered with tender recollection of her Father to whom such offices were frequent she burst into an agony of tears and hid her face upon the pillow
She soon however recovered and the solemnity of the preparation overawed her sorrow Mrs Marl placed the light as far as possible from the bed and when Camilla waved her hand in token of being ready said Now Sir if you please
He complied though not immediately but no sooner had he begun no sooner devoutly yet tremblingly pronounced O Father of Mercies than a faint scream issued from the bed—
He stopt but she did not speak and after a short pause he resumed but not a second sentence was pronounced when she feebly ejaculated Ah heaven and the book fell from his hands
She strove to raise her head but could not she opened however the side curtain to look out he advanced at the same moment to the foot of the bed fixed his eyes upon her face and in a voice that seemed to come from his soul exclaimed Camilla
With a mental emotion that for an instant restored her strength she drew again the curtain covered up her face and sobbed even audibly while the words O Edgar vainly sought vent
He attempted not to unclose the curtain she had drawn but with a deep groan dropping upon his knees on the outside cried Great God but checking himself hastily arose and motioning to Mrs Marl and to Peggy to move out of hearing said through the curtain O Camilla what dire calamity has brought this about—speak I implore—why are you here—why alone speak speak
He heard she was weeping but received no answer and with energy next to torture exclaimed Refuse not to trust me—recollect our long friendship—forgive—forget its alienation—By all you have ever valued—by all your wonted generosity—I call—I appeal Camilla Camilla—your silence rends my soul
Camilla had no utterance yet could not resist this urgency and gently through the opening of the curtain put forth her feeble hand
He seemed affected to agony he held it between each of his own and while softly he uttered O ever—unchangeably generous Camilla she felt it moistened with his tears
Too weak for the new sensation this excited she drew it away and the violence of her emotion menacing an hysteric fit Mrs Marl came back to her and wringing his hands as he looked around the room he tore himself away
CHAPTER XI
Means to still Agitation
Declining all aid Camilla continued in the same position wrapt up coveting the dark and stifling sighs that were rising into sobs till she heard a gentle tap at her door
She started but still hid herself Mrs Marl was already gone Peggy answered the summons and returned to the bedside with a note in her hand begging Camilla to take it as it came from the gentleman who was to have read the prayers
Is he then gone cried she in a voice announcing deep disappointment
Yes he went directly my dear Lady
She threw the covering from her face and with uplifted hands exclaimed O Edgar could you see me thus and leave me—Yet eagerly seizing the letter called for a candle and strove to read it But the characters seemed double to her weak and dazzled eyes and she was forced to relinquish the attempt She pressed it to her bosom and again covered herself up
Something nevertheless like internal revival once more to her own unspeakable amazement began fluttering at her breast She had seen the beloved of her heart—dearer to her far than the life she thought herself resigning seen him penetrated to anguish by her situation awakened to the tenderest recollections and upon her hand had dropt a testimony of his sensibility that dead as she had thought herself to the world its views its hopes its cares passed straight to her heart—that wonderful repository of successive emotions whence the expulsion of one species of interest but makes way for the entrance of another and which vainly while yet in mortal life builds even from hour to hour upon any chasm of mortal solicitude
While wrapt up in this reverie poignantly agitating yet undefinably soothing upon the return of Edgar to England and his astonishing appearance in her room her attention was again aroused by another gentle tap at the door
Peggy opened it and left the room but soon came back to beg an answer to the note for which the gentleman was waiting upon the stairs
Waiting she repeated in extreme trepidation is he not then gone
No maam only out of the room he cant go away without the answer he says
A sensation of pleasure was now so new to Camilla as almost to be too potent either for her strength or her intellects She doubted all around her doubted what she heard doubted even her existence Edgar could it be Edgar who was waiting for an answer who was under the same roof—who had been in the same room—who was now separated from her but by a thin wainscot—O no no no she cried my senses all delude me one vision after another beguiles my deranged imagination Yet she called Peggy to her again again asked her if it were indeed true and bidding her once more bring the candle the new spirit with which she was invigorated enabled her to persevere in her efforts till she made out the following lines which were sealed but not directed
The sorrow the tumult of my soul I attempt not to paint—Forgive O Camilla an intrusion which circumstances made resistless Deign to bury in kind oblivion all remembrance but of our early friendship—our intuitive attachment our confidence esteem and happy juvenile intercourse and under such auspices—animated as they are innocent—permit me to hasten Mrs Tyrold to this spot or trust me—I conjure—with the mystery of this dreadful desolation—O Camilla—by all the scenes that have passed between us—by the impression indelible they have engraved upon my heart wound not the most faithful of your friends by rejecting his services
E M
Dissolved in tears of tenderness relieving nay delightful she immediately sent him word that she accepted his kind office and should feel eternal gratitude if he would acquaint her friends with her situation
Peggy soon informed her the gentleman was gone and she then inquired why he had been brought to her as a clergyman
The little girl gave the account with the utmost simplicity Her mistress she said knew the gentleman very well who was Squire Mandlebert and lived at a great house not many miles off and had just alighted to bait his horses as she went to ask about sending for the clergyman He inquired who was ill and her Mistress said it was a Lady who had gone out of her mind by seeing a dead body and raved of nothing but having prayers read to her which her husband would do when his house was clear if the humour lasted for they had nobody to send three miles off and by drawing the curtains she would not know if it was a clergyman or not The young Squire then asked if she was a lodger or a traveller and her mistress answered Shes a traveller Sir and if it had not been for Peggys knowing her we should have been afraid who she might be for she stays here and never pays us only she has given us a watch and a locket for pledges Then he asked on some more questions continued Peggy and presently desired to see the locket and when he had looked at it he turned as white as a sheet and said he must see the lady Her mistress said she was laid down upon the bed and she could not send in a gentleman unless it was her husband just to quiet her poor head by reading her a prayer or too So then the Squire said hed take the prayer book and read to her himself if shed spare time to go in the room first and shut up the curtains So her mistress said no at first but Peggy said the poor lady fretted on so badly that presently up they came together
Ah dear darling locket internally cried Camilla how from the first have I loved—how to the last will I prize it Ah dear darling locket how for ever—while I live—will I wear it in my bosom
A calm now took place of her agonies that made her seem in a renovated existence till sleep by gentle approaches stole upon her again not to bring to her the dread vision which accompanied its first return nor yet to allow her tranquil repose A softer form appeared before her more afflictive though not so horrible it was the form of her Mother all displeasure removed from her penetrating countenance no longer in her dying child viewing the child that had offended her yet while forgiving and embracing seeing her expire in her arms
She awakened affrighted—she started she sat upright she called aloud upon her mother and wildly looking round thought she saw her at the foot of the bed
She crossed her eyes with her hands to endeavour to clear her sight but the object only seemed more distinct She bent forward seeking conviction yet incredulous though still meeting the same form
Sighing at last from fruitless fatigue Tis wondrous odd she cried but I now never know when I wake or when I sleep
The form glided away but with motion so palpable she could no longer believe herself played upon by imagination Aweimprest and wonderstruck she softly opened her side curtain to look after it It had stopt by a high chest of drawers against which leaning its head upon its arm it stood erect but seemed weeping She could not discern the face but the whole figure had the same sacred resemblance
The pulses of her head beat now with so much violence she was forced to hold her temples Doubt dread and hope seized every faculty at once till at length the upraised arm of the form before her dropt and she distinctly saw the profile It is herself it is my Mother she screamed rather than pronounced and threw herself from the bed to the floor
Yes it is your Mother was repeated in a tone solemn and penetrating—to what a scene O Camilla returned her house abandoned her son in exile her Eugenia lost her husband the prop of all where she dare not name and thou the child of her bosom the constant terrour yet constant darling of her soul where and how does she see does she meet thee again—O Camilla
Then tenderly though with anguish bending over her she would have raised and helped her to return to the bed but Camilla would not be aided she would not lift up her eyes her face sought the ground where leaning it upon her hands without desiring to speak without wishing to stir torn by selfreproaches that made her deem herself unworthy to live she remained speechless immoveable
Repress repress said Mrs Tyrold gently yet firmly these strong feelings uselessly torturing to us both Raise your head my poor girl raise and repose it upon the breast of your Mother
Of my Mother repeated Camilla in a voice hardly audible have I a Mother—who again will own the blast of her hopes and happiness—the disgrace the shame of the best and most injured of Fathers
Let us pray said Mrs Tyrold with a sigh that these evils may pass away and by salutary exertions not desponding repinings earn back our fugitive peace
Again she then would have raised her but Camilla sunk from all assistance No she cried I am unworthy your lenity—I am unable even to bear it
Camilla said Mrs Tyrold steadily it is time to conquer this impetuous sensibility which already in its effects has nearly broken all our hearts With what horrour have we missed—with what agony sought you Now then that at length we find you excite not new terrour by consigning yourself to willing despair
Struck with extreme dread of committing yet further wrong she lifted up her head with intention to have risen but the weak state of her body forgotten by herself and by Mrs Tyrold unsuspected took its turn for demanding attention
Alas my poor Child cried she what horrible havock has this short absence produced O Camilla with a soul of feeling like yours—strong tender generous and but too much alive how is it you can thus have forgotten the first ties of your duty and your heart and have been wrought upon by your own sorrows to forget the sorrows you inflict Why have you thus fled us thus abandoned yourself to destruction Was our anger to be set in competition with our misery Was the fear of displeasure from parents who so tenderly love you to be indulged at the risk of never ending regret to the most lenient of Fathers and nearly the loss of senses to a Mother who from your birth has idolized you in her inmost soul
Bending then over her she folded her in her arms where Camilla overpowered with the struggles of joy and contrition sunk nearly lifeless
Mrs Tyrold seeing now her bodily feebleness put her to bed with words of soothing tenderness no longer blended with retrospective investigation conjuring her to be calm to remember whose peace and happiness were encircled in her life and health and to remit to her fuller strength all further interesting discourse
Ah my Mother cried Camilla tell me first—if the time may ever come when with truth you can forgive me
Alas my darling Child answered the generous Mother I have myself now to pardon that I forgave thee not at first
Camilla seemed transported to another region with difficulty Mrs Tyrold could hold her in her bed though hovering over her pillow with incessant caresses but to raise her eye only to meet that of her Mother—not as her fertile terrour had prophesied darting unrelenting ire but softly solicitous and exquisitely kind to feel one loved hand anxiously upon her forehead and to glue her own lips upon the other to find fears that had made existence insupportable transformed into security that rendered it delicious—with a floating uncertain yet irrepressible hope that to Edgar she owed this restoration caused a revulsion in all her feelings that soon operated upon her frame—not indeed with tranquillity but with rapture approaching to delirium—when suddenly a heavy lumbering noise appalled her Ah my Mother she faintly cried our beloved Eugenia that noise where—and how—is Eugenia—The wretched Mr Bellamy is no more
Mrs Tyrold answered she was acquainted with the whole dreadful business and would relate it in a season of more serenity but meanwhile as repose she well knew never associated with suspence she satisfied immediate anxiety by assurances that Eugenia was safe and at Etherington
This was a joy scarce inferior to that which so recently had transported her but Mrs Tyrold gathering from the good Peggy that she had not been in bed nor scarce tasted food since she had been at the halfwayhouse refused all particulars till she had been refreshed with nourishment and rest The first immediately was ordered and immediately taken and Mrs Tyrold to propitiate the second insisted upon total silence and prepared to sit up with her all night
Long as the extreme agitation of her spirits distanced
Tird Natures sweet restorer balmy sleep7
the change from so much misery to heartfelt peace and joy with the judicious nursing and restoratives devised by Mrs Tyrold for her weak and half famished frame made her slumber when at length it arrived lasted so long that though broken by frequent starts she awoke not till late the next morning
Her eyes then opened upon a felicity that again made her think herself in a new world Her Mother leaning over her was watching her breathe with hands uplifted for her preservation and looks of fondness which seemed to mark that her happiness depended upon its being granted but as she raised herself to throw her arms around the loved maternal neck the shadow of another form quickly yet gently receding struck her sight Ah Heaven she exclaimed who is that
Will you be good said Mrs Tyrold gently be tranquil be composed and earn that I should tell you who has been watching by you this hour
Camilla could not answer certain now who it must be her emotions became again uncontrollable her horrour her remorse her selfabhorrence revived and agonizingly exclaiming Tis my Father—O where can I hide my head She strove again to envelop herself with the bedcurtain from all view
Here—in his own arms—upon his own breast you shall hide it said Mr Tyrold returning to the bedside and all now shall be forgotten but thankfulness that our afflictions seem finding their period
O my Father my Father cried Camilla forgetting her situation in her desire to throw herself at his feet can you speak to me thus after the woe—the disgrace I have brought upon you—I deserve your malediction I expected to be shut out from your heart—I thought myself abandoned—I looked forward only in death to receiving your forgiveness—
Mrs Tyrold held her still while her Father now blessed and embraced her each uttering in the same moment whatever was softest to console her but all her quick feelings were reawakened beyond their power to appease them her penitence tortured her very gratitude tore her to pieces O my Mother she cried how do you forbear to spurn me Can you think of what is passed and still pronounce your pardon Will you not draw it back at the sight of my injured Father Are you not tempted to think I deserve eternal banishment from you both—and to repent that you have not ordered it
No my dearest Child no I lament only that I took you not at once to your proper security—to these arms my Camilla that now so fondly infold you to this bosom—my darling girl—where my heart beats your welcome
You make me too—too happy the change is almost killing my Mother—my dearest Mother—I did not think you would permit me to ever call you so again My Father I knew would pardon me for the chief suffering was his own but even he I never expected could look at me thus benignly again and hardly—hardly would he have been tried if the evil had been reversed
Mr Tyrold exhorted her to silent composure but finding her agitation overpower even her own efforts he summoned her to join him in solemn thanks for her restoration
Awfully though most gratefully impressed by such a call she checked her emotion and devoutly obeyed and the short but pious ceremony quieted her nerves and calmed her mind
The gentlest tranquillity then took place in her breast of the tumultuous joy which had first chaced her deadly affliction The soothing however serious turn given by devotion to her changed sensations softened the acute excess of rapture which mounted felicity nearly to agony More eloquent as well as safer than any speech was the pause of deep gratitude the silence of humble praise which ensued Camilla in each hand held one of each beloved Parent alternately she pressed them with grateful reverence to her lips alternately her eye sought each revered countenance and received in the beaming fondness they emitted a benediction that was balm to every woe
CHAPTER XII
Means to obtain a Boon
Mr Tyrold was soon by urgent claims forced to leave them and Camilla with strong secret anxiety to know if Edgar had caused this blest meeting led to a general explanation upon past events
And now to her utter amazement she found that her letter sent by the labourer had never been received
Mrs Tyrold related that she had no sooner read the first letter addressed to her through Lavinia than softened and affected she wrote an answer of the utmost kindness to Belfont desiring Camilla to continue with her sister till called for by Miss Margland in her return home from Mrs Macdersey The visit meanwhile to Cleves had transpired through Jacob and much touched by yet much blaming her travelling thus alone she wrote to her a second time charging her to remove no more from Belfont without Miss Margland But on the preceding morning the first letter had been returned with a note from Eugenia that her sister had set out two days before for Etherington
The moment of this intelligence was the most dreadful to Mr Tyrold and herself of their lives Every species of conjecture was horrible He set out instantly for Belfont determining to make enquiries at every inn house and cottage by the way but by taking unfortunately the road through Alton he had missed the halfwayhouse In the evening while with apprehensions surpassing all description she was waiting some news a chaise drove up to the door She flew out but saw in it alone cold trembling and scarce in her senses Eugenia Instantly imagining she came with tidings of fatal tendency concerning Camilla she started back exclaiming All then is over The chaisedoor had been opened but Eugenia shaking too violently to get out only and faintly answered Yes my Mother all is over— The mistake was almost instantaneous death to her—though the next words of Eugenia cleared it up and led to her own dreadful narrative
Bellamy as soon as Camilla had left Belfont had made a peremptory demand that his wife should claim as if for some purpose of her own a large sum of Sir Hugh Her steady resistance sent him from the house in a rage and she saw no more of him till that day at noon when he returned in deeper blacker wrath than she had ever yet seen and vowed that nothing less than her going in person to her uncle with his request should induce him ever to forgive her When he found her resolute in refusal he ordered a chaise and made her get into it without saying for what purpose She saw they were travelling towards Cleves but he did not once speak except where they changed horses till they came upon the crossroad leading to the halfwayhouse Suddenly then bidding the postillion stop at the end of a lane he told him he was going to look at a little farm and ordering him to wait made her alight and walk down it till they were out of sight of the man and the carriage Fiercely then stopping short Will you give me he cried your promise upon oath that you will ask your Uncle for the money Indeed Mr Bellamy I cannot she answered Enough he cried and took from his pocket a pistol Good Heaven she said you will not murder me—I cannot live without the money myself he answered and why should I let you He then felt in his waistcoat pocket whence he took two bullets telling her she should have the pleasure of seeing him load the pistol and that when one bullet had dispatched her the other should disappoint the executioner Horrour now conquered her and she solemnly promised to ask whatever he dictated I must hold the pistol to your ear cried he while you take your oath See tis loaded—This is no childs play He then lifted it up but at the same moment a distant voice exclaimed Hold villain or you are a dead man Starting and meaning to hide it within his waistcoat his hand shook—the pistol went off—it shot him through the body and he dropt down dead Without sense or motion she fell by his side and upon recovering found herself again in the chaise The postillion who knew her had carried her thither and brought her on to Etherington She then conjured that proper persons might go back with the driver and that her Father would have the benevolence to superintend all that could be done that would be most respectfully decent
The postillion acknowledged that it was himself who had cried Hold villain A suspicion of some mischief had occurred to him from seeing the end of a pistol jerk from the pocket of the gentleman as he got out of the chaise and begging a man who accidentally passed while he waited to watch his horses he ran down a field by the side of the lane whence he heard the words The pistol is loaded and for no childs play upon which seeing it raised and the young Lady shrink he called out Yet Eugenia protested herself convinced that Bellamy had no real design against either his own life or hers though terrour at the moment had conquered her he had meant but to affright her into consent knowing well her word once given with whatever violence torn from her would be held sacred The rest was dreadful accident or Providence in that form playing upon himself his own toils The pious young Widow was so miserable at this shocking exit and the shocking manner in which the remains were left exposed that her Mother had set out herself to give orders in person from the halfwayhouse for bringing thither the body till Mr Tyrold could give his own directions She found however that business already done The man called by the postillion had been joined by a party of labourers just leaving off work those had gathered others they had procured some broad planks which served for a bier and had humanely conveyed the body to the inn where the landlord was assured the postillion would come back with some account of him though little Peggy had only learnt in general that he had been found murdered near a wood
Eugenia is just now said Mrs Tyrold in conclusion plunged into an abyss of ideas, frightful to her humanity and oppressive to the tenderness of her heart Her nature is too noble to rejoice in a release to herself worked by means so horrible and big with notions of retribution for the wretched culprit at which even vengeance the most implacable might shudder Nevertheless all will imperceptibly pass away save the pity inherent in all good minds for vice and its penalties To know his abrupt punishment and not to be shocked would be inhuman but to grieve with any regard for a man of such principles and conduct would be an outrage to all that they have injured and offended
This view of the transaction by better reconciling Camilla to the ultimate lot of her sister brought her back to reflect upon her own Still she had not gathered with precision how she had been discovered To pronounce the name of Edgar was impossible but after a long pause which Mrs Tyrold had hoped was given again to repose she ventured to say I have not yet heard my dearest Mother to what benign chance I immediately owe my present unspeakable unmerited happiness
Mrs Tyrold looked at her a moment in silence as if to read what her question offered beyond its mere words but she saw her eye hastily withdrawn from the examination and her cheeks suddenly enveloped with the bed cloaths
Quietly and without turning towards her again she resumed her narrative
I engaged the worthy postillion of my poor Eugenia to drive me purposing to send Ambrose on with him while I waited at the halfwayhouse but about two miles off Ambrose who rode before was stopt by a gentleman whom he met in a post chaise when I came up to him I stopt also It was Mr Mandlebert
Camilla who had looked up now again hastily drew back and Mrs Tyrold after a short pause went on
His intelligence of course finished my search My first idea was to convey you instantly home but the particulars I gathered made me fear removing you When I entered your room you were asleep—I dreaded to surprise yet could not refrain taking a view of you and while I looked you suddenly awoke
Ah thought Camilla tis to Edgar then that ultimately I owe this blest moment
But my Father she cried my dearest Mother—how came my dear Father to know where you had found me
At Belfont he learnt the way you had set out and that Eugenia and Bellamy were from home and without loss of time regardless of the night and of fasting he returned by a route through which he traced you at every inn where you had changed horses He also entered as you were sleeping—and we watched together by your side
Again filial gratitude silenced all but itself, and sleep the softest she had known for many months soon gave to oblivion every care in Camilla
The changeful tide of mental spirits from misery to enjoyment is not more rapid than the transition from personal danger to safety in the elastic period of youth Tis the epoch of extremes and moderation by which alone we learn the true use of our blessings is a wisdom we are frequently only taught to appreciate when redundance no longer requires its practice
Camilla from sorrow the most desolate bounded to joy that refused a solicitude and from an illness that held her suspended between delirium and dissolution to ease that had no complaint The sufferings which had deprived her of the benefit of rest and nourishment were no sooner removed than she appeared to be at once restored to health though to repair the wastes of strength some time yet was necessary
Mrs Tyrold determined to carry her this afternoon to Etherington The remains of the wretched Bellamy in a coffin and hearse brought from Winchester had been sent to Belfont in the morning and Mr Tyrold had followed to give every direction that he should be buried as the master of the house without reference to the conduct which had forfeited all such respect
Though the evil committed by the nondeliverance of Camillas letter was now past all remedy Mrs Tyrold thought it every way right to endeavour to discover where lay the blame and by the two usual modes of menace and promises she learnt that the countryman when he stopt to drink by the way had in lighting his pipe let the letter take fire and fearing to lose the recompense he had expected had set his conscience apart for a crown and returned with the eventful falsehood which had made Camilla think herself abandoned and her friends deplore her as lost
For the benefit of those with whom in future he might have to deal Mrs Tyrold took some pains to represent to him the cruel evils his dishonesty had produced but stupid rather than wicked what he had done had been without weighing right from wrong and what he heard was without understanding it
Camilla found with extreme satisfaction that Mrs Tyrold notwithstanding the strictness of the present family œconomy meant liberally to recompense Mrs Marl for the trouble and patience with which she had attended to a guest so little profitable while Peggy to whose grateful remembrance she owed the consideration she had met with in her deserted condition was rewarded by a much larger sum than she had ever before possessed Camilla was obliged to confess she had parted with two pledges for future payment the watch was reclaimed without difficulty but she shewed so much distress in naming the locket that Mrs Tyrold though she looked anxiously surprised demanded it without enquiring into its history
The excess of delight to Camilla in preparing to return to Etherington rendered her insensible to all fatigue till she was descending the stairs when the recollection of the shock she had received from the corpse of Bellamy made her tremble so exceedingly that she could scarce walk past the door of the room in which it had been laid Ah my dearest Mother she cried this house must give me always the most penetrating sensations I have experienced in it the deepest grief and the most heartsoothing enjoyment that ever perhaps gave place one to the other in so short a time
Ambrose had announced their intended arrival and at the door of the house the timid but affectionate Lavinia was waiting to receive them and as Camilla in alighting met her tender embraces a wellknown voice reached her ears calling out in hurried accents Where is she Is she come indeed Are you quite sure And Sir Hugh hobbling rather than walking into the hall folded her in his feeble arms sobbing over her I cant believe it for joy Poor sinner that I am and the cause of all our bad doings how can I have deserved such a thing as this to have my own little Girl come back to me which could not have made my heart gladder if I had had no share in all this bad mischief which God knows Ive had enough owing to my poor head doing always for the worst for all my being the oldest of us all which is a thing Ive often thought remarkable enough in the point of my knowing no better which however I hope my dear little Darling will excuse for the sake of my love which is never happy but in seeing her
The heart of Camilla bounded with grateful joy at sight of this dear Uncle and at so tender a reception and while with equal emotion and equal weakness they were unable to support either each other or themselves the worthy old Jacob his eyes running over came to help his Master back to the parlour and Mrs Tyrold and Lavinia conveyed thither Camilla who was but just placed upon a sofa by the side of her fond Uncle when the door of an inner apartment was softly opened and pale wan and meagre Eugenia appeared at it saying as faintly yet with open arms she advanced to Camilla Let me too—your poor harassed and but halfalive Eugenia make one in this precious scene Let me see the joy of my kind Uncle—the revival of my honoured Mother the happiness of my dear Lavinia—and feel even my own heart beat once more with delight in the bosom of its darling Sister my so mourned—but now for ever I trust restored to me most dear Camilla
Camilla thus encircled in her Mothers Uncles Sisters arms at once gasped sighed smiled and shed tears in the same grateful minute while fondly she strove to articulate Am I again at Etherington and at Cleves in one And thus indulgently received thus more than forgiven My heart wants room for its joy my Mother my Sisters if you knew what despair has been my portion I feared even the sight of my dear Uncle himself lest the sorrows and the errours of a creature he so kindly loved should have demolished his generous heart
Mine my dearest little Girl cried the Baronet why what would that have signified in comparison to such a young one as yours that ought to know no sorrow yet a while God knows it being time enough to begin for it is but melancholy at best the cares of the world which if you cant keep off now will be overtaking you at every turn
Mrs Tyrold entreated Camilla might be spared further conversation Eugenia had already glided back to her chamber and begged this one solacing interview over to be dispensed with from joining the family at present Camilla was removed also to her chamber and the tender Mother divided her time and her cares between these two recovered treasures of her fondest affection
CHAPTER XIII
Questions and Answers
Mr Tyrold did not return till the next day from Belfont where through the account he gave from his Daughter the violent exit of the miserable Bellamy was brought in accidental death Various circumstances had now acquainted him with the history of that wretched man who was the younger son of the master of a great gaminghouse In his first youth he had been utterly neglected and left to run wild whither he chose but his father afterwards becoming very rich had bestowed upon him as good an education as the late period at which it was begun could allow He was intended for a lucrative business but he had no application and could retain no post he went into the army but he had no courage and was speedily cashiered Inheriting a passion for the means by which the parental fortune had been raised he devoted himself next to its pursuit and won very largely But as extravagance and good luck by long custom go hand in hand he spent as fast as he acquired and upon a tide of fortune in his disfavour was tempted to reverse the chances by unfair play was found out and as ignominiously chaced from the field of hazard as from that of patriotism His father was no more his eldest brother would not assist him he sold therefore his house and all he possessed but his wardrobe and relying upon a very uncommonly handsome face and person determined to seek a fairer lot by eloping if possible with some heiress He thought it however prudent not only to retire from London but to make a little change in his name which from Nicholas Gwigg he refined into Alphonso Bellamy He began his career by a tour into Wales where he insinuated himself into the acquaintance of Mrs Ecton just after she had married Miss Melmond to Mr Berlinton and though this was not an intercourse that could travel to Gretna Green the beauty and romantic turn of the bride of so disproportioned a marriage opened to his unprincipled mind a scheme yet more flagitious Fortunately however for his fair destined prey soon after the connexion was formed she left Wales and the search of new adventures carried him by various chances into Hampshire But he had established with her a correspondence and when he had caught or rather forced an heiress into legal snares the discovery of who and what he was became less important and he ventured again to town and renewed his heinous plan as well as his inveterate early habits till surprised by some unpleasant recollectors debts of honour which he had found it convenient to elude upon leaving the Capital were claimed and he found it impossible to appear without satisfying such demands Thence his cruel and inordinate persecution of his unhappy wife for money and thence ultimately the brief vengeance which had reverberated upon his own head
Camilla whose danger was the result of self-neglect as her sufferings had all flowed from mental anguish was already able to go down to the study upon the arrival of Mr Tyrold where she received with grateful rapture the tender blessings which welcomed her to the paternal arms—to her home—to peace—to safety—and primæval joy
Mr Tyrold sparing to her yet weak nerves any immediate explanations upon the past called upon his wife to aid him to communicate in the quietest manner what had been done at Belfont to Eugenia charging Camilla to take no part in a scene inevitably shocking
Once more in the appropriate apartment of her Father where all her earliest scenes of gayest felicity had passed but which of late she had only approached with terrour only entered to weep she experienced a delight almost awful in the renovation of her pristine confidence and fearless ease She took from her pocket—where alone she could ever bear to keep it—her loved locket delighting to attribute to it this restoration to domestic enjoyment though feeling at the same time a renewal of suspence from the return of its donor and from the affecting interview into which she had been surprised that broke in upon even her filial happiness with bitter tyrannical regret Yet she pressed to her bosom the cherished symbol of first regard and was holding it to her lips when Mrs Tyrold unexpectedly reentered the room
In extreme confusion she shut it into its shagreen case and was going to restore it to her pocket but infolding it with her daughters hand between each of her own Mrs Tyrold said Shall I ever my dear girl learn the history of this locket
O yes my dearest Mother said the blushing Camilla of that—and of every—and of all things—you have only—you have merely—
If it distresses you my dear child we will leave it to another day said Mrs Tyrold whose eyes Camilla saw as she now raised her own were swimming in tears
My Mother my dearest Mother cried she with the tenderest alarm has any thing new happened—Is Eugenia greatly affected
She is all every way and in every respect said Mrs Tyrold whatever the fondest or even the proudest Mother could wish But I do not at this instant most think of her I am not without some fears for my Camillas strength in the immediate demand that may be made upon her fortitude Tell me my child with that sincerity which so long has been mutually endearing between us tell me if you think you can see here again and as usual without any risk to your health one long admitted and welcomed as a part of the family
She started changed colour looked up cast her eyes on the floor but soon seeing Mrs Tyrold hold an handkerchief bathed in tears to her face lost all dread and even all consciousness in tender gratitude and throwing her arms round her neck O my Mother she cried you who weep not for yourself—scarcely even in the most poignant sorrow—can you weep for me—I will see—or I will avoid whoever you please—I shall want no fortitude I shall fear nothing—no one—not even myself—now again under your protection I will scarcely even think my beloved Mother but by your guidance
Compose yourself then my dearest girl and if you believe you are equal to behaving with firmness I will not refuse his request of readmission
His request repeated Camilla with involuntary quickness but finding Mrs Tyrold did not notice it gently adding That person that—I believe—you mean—has done nothing my dear Mother to merit expulsion—
I am happy to hear you say so I have been fearfully I must own and even piercingly displeased with him
Ah my dear Mother how kind was the partiality that turned your displeasure so wrong a way that made you—even you my dear Mother listen to your fondness rather than to your justice—
She trembled at the temerity of this vindication the moment it had escaped her and looking another way spoke again of Eugenia but Mrs Tyrold now taking both her hands and seeking though vainly to meet her eyes said My dearest child I grow painfully anxious to end a thousand doubts to speak and to hear with no further ambiguity nor reserve If Edgar—
Camilla again changed colour and strove to withdraw her hands
Take courage my dear love and let one final explanation relieve us both at once If Edgar has merited well of you why are you parted—If ill—why this solicitude my opinion of him should be unshaken
Her head now dropt upon Mrs Tyrolds shoulder as she faintly answered He deserves your good opinion my dearest Mother—for he adores you—I cannot be unjust to him—though he has made me—I own—not very happy
Designedly my Camilla
O no my dearest Mother—he would not do that to an enemy
Speak out then and speak clearer my dearest Camilla If you think of him so well and are so sure of his good intentions what—in two words—what is it that has parted you
Accident my dearest Mother—deluding appearances and false internal reasoning on my part—and on his continual misconstruction O my dearest Mother how have I missed your guiding care I had ever the semblance by some cruel circumstance some inexplicable fatality of incident to neglect his counsel oppose his judgment deceive his expectations and trifle with his regard—Yet with a heart faithful grateful devoted—O my dearest Mother—with an esteem that defies all comparison a respect closely meliorating even to veneration Never was heart my dearest Mother so truly impressed with the worth of another with the nobleness
A buzzing noise from the adjoining parlour sounding something between a struggle and a dispute suddenly stopt her and as she raised her head from the bosom of her Mother in which she had seemed seeking shelter from the very confidence she was pouring forth she saw the door opened and the object of whom she was speaking appear at it Fluttered colouring trembling yet with eyes refulgent with joy and every feature speaking ecstasy
Almost fainting with shame and surprise she gave herself up as disgraced if not dishonoured evermore for a short but bitter half moment It was not longer Edgar rushing forward and seizing the hands of Mrs Tyrold even while they were encircling her drooping shrinking half expiring Camilla pressed them with ardent respect to his lips rapidly exclaiming My more than Mother my dear kind excellent inestimable friend—Forgive this blest intrusion—plead for me where I dare not now speak—and raise your indeed maternal eyes upon the happiest—the most devoted of your family
What is it overpowers me thus this morning cried Mrs Tyrold leaning her head upon her clinging Camilla while large drops fell from her eyes Misfortune I see is not the greatest test of our philosophy Joy twice today has completely demolished mine
What goodness is this what encouragement to hope some indulgent intercession here—where the sense that now breaks in upon me of ungenerous ever to be lamented—and I had nearly said execrated doubt fills me with shame and regret—and makes me—even at this soft reviving heartrestoring moment feel undeserving my own hopes—
Shall I may I leave him to make his peace whispered Mrs Tyrold to her daughter whose head sought concealment even to annihilation but whose arms with what force they possessed detained her uttering faintly but rapidly O no no no
My more than Mother again cried Edgar I will wait till that felicity may be accorded me and put myself wholly under your kind and powerful influence One thing alone I must say—I have too much to answer for to take any share of the misdemeanors of another—I have not been a treacherous listener though a wilful obtruder See Mrs Tyrold who placed me in that room—who is the accomplice of my happiness
With a smile that seemed to beam but the more brightly for her glistening eyes Mrs Tyrold looked to the door and saw there leaning against it the form she most revered surveying them all with an expression of satisfaction so perfect contentment so benign and pleasure mingled with so much thankfulness that her tears now flowed fast from unrestrained delight and Mr Tyrold approaching to press at once the two objects of his most exquisite tenderness to his breast said This surprise was not planned but circumstances made it more than irresistible It was not however quite fair to my Camilla and if she is angry we will be selfexiled till she can pardon us
This is such a dream—cried Camilla as now first from the voice of her Father she believed it reality so incredible so unintelligible I find it entirely impossible impossible to comprehend any thing I see or hear—
Let the past not the present cried Edgar be regarded as the dream and generously drive it from your mind as a fever of the brain with which reason had no share and for which memory must find no place
If I could understand in the least said Camilla what this all means what——
Mr Tyrold now insisted that Edgar should retreat while he made some explanation and then related to his trembling doubting wondering daughter the following circumstances
In returning from Belfont he had stopt at the halfwayhouse where he had received from Mrs Marl a letter that had it reached him as it was intended at Etherington would have quickened the general meeting yet nearly have broken his heart It was that which for want of a messenger had never been sent and which Peggy in cleaning the bed room had found under a table where it had fallen she supposes when the candle was put upon it for reading prayers
There was another letter too interrupted Camilla with quick blushing recollection—but my illness and all that has followed made me forget them both till this very moment Did she say anything of any other
Yes the other had been delivered according to its address
Good Heaven
Be not frightened my Camilla all has been beautifully directed for the best My accomplice had received his early in the morning he was at the house by some fortunate hazard when it was found and being well known there Mrs Marl gave it to him immediately
How terrible It was meant only in case I had seen no one any more
The intent and the event have been happily my child at war He came instantly hither and enquired for me I was not returned he asked my route and rode to follow or meet me About an hour ago we encountered upon the road he gave his horse to his groom and came into the chaise to me
Camilla now could with difficulty listen but her Father hastened to acquaint her that Edgar with the most generous apologies the most liberal selfblame had redemanded his consent for a union from which every doubt was wholly and even miraculously removed by learning thus the true feelings of her heart as depicted at the awful crisis of expected dissolution The returning smiles which forced their way now through the tears and blushes of Camilla shewed how vainly she strove to mingle the regret of shame with the felicity of fond security produced by this eventful accident But when she further heard that Edgar in Flanders had met with Lionel who in frankly recounting his difficulties and adventures had named some circumstances which had so shaken every opinion that had urged him to quit England as to induce him instantly from the conference to seek a passage for his return she felt all but happiness retire from her heart—vanish even from her ideas
You are not angry then said Mr Tyrold as smilingly he read her delighted sensations that I waited not to consult you That I gave back at once my consent That I folded him again in my arms again called him my son
She could but seek the same pressure and he continued I would not bring him in with me I was not aware my dear girl was so rapidly recovered and I had a task to fulfil to my poor Eugenia that was still my first claim But I promised within an hour your Mother at least should welcome him He would walk he said for that period When I met her I hinted at what was passing and she followed me to our Eugenia I then briefly communicated my adventure and your Mother my Camilla lost herself in hearing it Will you not like me withdraw from her all reverence Her eyes gushed with tears she wept as you weep at this moment she was sure Edgar Mandlebert could alone preserve you from danger yet make you happy—Was she wrong my dear child Shall we attack now her judgment as well as her fortitude
Only at her feet could Camilla shew her gratitude to action she had recourse for words were inadequate and the tenderest caresses now spoke best for them all
Respect for the situation of Eugenia who had desired for this week to live wholly up stairs and alone determined Mr and Mrs Tyrold to keep back for some time the knowledge of this event from the family Camilla was most happy to pay such an attention to her sister but when Mr Tyrold was leaving her to consult upon it with Edgar the ingenuousness of her nature urged her irresistibly to say Since all this has passed my dearest Father—my dearest Mother—does it not seem as if I should now myself——
She stopt but she was understood they both smiled and Mr Tyrold immediately bringing in Edgar said I find my pardon my dear fellowculprit is already accorded if you have doubts of your own try your eloquence for yourself
He left the room and Mrs Tyrold was gently rising to quietly follow but Camilla with a look of entreaty of which she knew the sincerity and would not resist the earnestness detained her
Ah yes stay dearest Madam cried Edgar again respectfully taking her hand and through your unalterable goodness let me hope to procure pardon for a distrust which I here for ever renounce but which had its origin in my never daring to hope what at this moment I have the felicity to believe Yet now even now without your kind mediation this dear convalescent may plan some probationary trial at which my whole mind after this long suffering revolts Will you be my caution my dearest Mrs Tyrold Will you venture—and will you deign to promise that if a full and generous forgiveness may be pronounced
Forgiveness in a soft voice interrupted Camilla Have I any thing to forgive I thought all apology—all explanation rested on my part and that my imprudencies—my rashness—my so oftenerring judgment and so apparently almost even culpable conduct
O my Camilla my now own Camilla cried Edgar venturing to change the hand of the Mother for that of the daughter what too too touching words and concessions are these Suffer me then to hope a kind amnesty may take place of retrospection a clear liberal open forgiveness anticipate explanation and enquiry
Are you sure said Camilla smiling this is your interest and not mine Does he not make a mistake my dearest Mother and turn my advocate instead of his own And can I fairly take advantage of such an errour
The sunshine of her returning smiles went warm to her Mothers heart and gave a glow to the cheeks of Edgar and a brightness to his eyes that irradiated his whole countenance Your penetrating judgment said he to Mrs Tyrold will take in at once more than any professions any protestations can urge for me you see the peace the pardon which those eyes do not seek to withhold will you then venture my more than maternal friend my Mother in every meaning which affection and reverence can give to that revered appellation—will you venture at once—now—upon this dear and ever after hallowed minute—to seal the kind consent of my truly paternal guardian and to give me an example of that trust and confidence which my whole future life shall look upon as its lesson
Yes answered Mrs Tyrold instantly joining their hands and with every security that the happiness of all our lives—my childs my husbands yours my valued Edgars and my own will all owe their felicity to the blessing with which I now lay my hands upon my two precious children
Tears were the only language that could express the fulness of joy which succeeded to so much sorrow and when Mr Tyrold returned and had united his tenderest benediction with that of his beloved wife Edgar was permitted to remain alone with Camilla and the close of his long doubts and her own long perplexities was a reciprocal confidence that left nothing untold not an action unrelated not even a thought unacknowledged
Edgar confessed that he no sooner had quitted her than he suspected the justice of his decision the turn which of late he had taken doubtfully to watch her every action and suspiciously to judge her every motive though it had impelled him in her presence ceased to operate in her absence—He was too noble to betray the well meant though not well applied warnings of Dr Marchmont yet he acknowledged that when left to cool reflection a thousand palliations arose for every step he could not positively vindicate and when afterwards from the frank communication of Lionel he learnt what belonged to the mysterious offer of Sir Sedley Clarendel that she would superintend the disposal of his fortune and the deep obligation in which she had been innocently involved his heart smote him for having judged ere he had investigated that transaction and in a perturbation unspeakable of quick repentance and tenderness he set out for England But when at the halfwayhouse he stopt as usual to rest his horses in his way to Beech Park—what were his emotions at the sight of the locket which the landlady told him had been pledged by a lady in distress He besought her pardon for the manner in which he had made way to her but the almost frantic anxiety which seized him to know if or not it was she and to save her if so from the intended intrusion of the landlord made him irresistibly prefer it to the plainer mode which he should have adopted with any one else of sending in his name and some message His shock at her view in such a state he would not now revive but the impropriety of bidding the landlady quit the chamber and the impossibility of entering into an explanation in her hearing alone repressed at that agitated moment the avowal of every sensation with which his heart was labouring But when he added shall I cease to rejoice that I had listened to the good landladys history of a sick guest while all conjecture was so remote from whom it might be when I am tempted to turn aside from a tale of distress I will recollect what I owe to having given ear to one Lost in wonder at what could have brought her to such a situation and disturbed how to present himself at the rectory till fixed in his plans he had ridden to the halfwayhouse that morning to enquire concerning the corpse that Mrs Marl had mentioned—and there—while he was speaking with her the little maid brought down two letters—one of them directed to himself—
What a rapid transition cried he was then mine from regrets that robbed life of all charms to prospects which paint it in its most vivid colours of happiness from wavering the most deplorable to resolutions of expiating by a whole life of devoted fondness the barbarous waywardness that could deprive me for one wilful moment of the exquisite felicity of my lot
But still said Camilla I do not quite understand how you came in that room this morning and how you authorized yourself to overhear my confessions to my Mother
Recollect my acknowledged accomplice before you hazard any blame When I came hither somewhat I confess within my given hour Mr Tyrold received me himself at the door He told me I was too soon and took me into the front parlour The partition is thin I heard my name spoken by Mrs Tyrold and the gentle voice of my Camilla in accents yet more gentle than even that voice ever spoke before answering some question I was not myself at first aware of its tenour but when unavoidably I gathered it when I heard words so beautifully harmonizing with what I had so lately perused—I would instantly have ventured into the room but Mr Tyrold feared surprising you—you went on—my fascinated soul divested me of obedience—of caution—of all but joy and gratitude and he could no longer restrain me And now with which of her offenders will my Camilla quarrel
With neither I believe just at present The conspiracy is so complex and even my Mother so nearly a party concerned that I dare not risk the unequal contest I must only in future added she smiling speak ill of you and then you will find less pleasure in the thinness of a partition
Faithfully she returned his communication by the fullest most candid and unsparing account of every transaction of her short life from the still shorter period of its being put into voluntary motion With nearly breathless interest he listened to the detail of her transactions with Sir Sedley Clarendel with pity to her debts and with horrour to her difficulties But when through the whole ingenuous narration he found himself the constant object of every view the ultimate motive to every action even where least it appeared his happiness and his gratitude made Camilla soon forget that sorrow had ever been known to her
They then spoke of her two favourites Mrs Arlbery and Mrs Berlinton and though she was animated in her praise of the good qualities of the first and the sweet attraction of the last she confessed the danger for one so new in the world of chusing friends distinct from those of her family and voluntarily promised during her present season of inexperience to repose the future choice of her connections where she could never be happy without their approvance
The two hundred pounds to Sir Sedley Clarendel he determined on the very day that Camilla should be his to return to the Baronet under the privilege and in the name of paying it for a brother
In conference thus softly balsamic to every past wound and thus deliciously opening to that summit of earthly felicity confidence unlimited entwined around affection unbounded hours might have passed unnumbered and unawares had not prudence forced a separation for the repose of Camilla
CHAPTER XIV
The last Touches of the Picture
Late as Edgar quitted the rectory he went not straight to Beech Park every tie both of friendship and propriety carried him first to Dr Marchmont who had too much feeling to wonder at the power of his late incitements and too much goodness of heart not to felicitate him upon their issue though he sighed at the recollection of the disappointments whence his own doubting counsel originated Twice betrayed in his dearest expectations he had formed two criterions from his peculiar experience by which he had settled his opinion of the whole female sex and where opinion may humour systematic prepossession who shall build upon his virtue or wisdom to guard the transparency of his impartiality
The following day the Westwyns presented themselves at Etherington hurried from a tour they were taking through Devonshire and Cornwall by intelligence which had reached them that Sir Hugh Tyrold was ruined and Cleves was to be let They met by chance with Edgar alone in the parlour and the joy of the old gentleman in hearing how small a part of the rumour was founded in fact made him shake hands with him as cordially for setting him right as Edgar welcomed his kindness from the pleasure afforded by the sight of such primitive regard But when presuming upon his peculiar intimacy in the family as ward of Mr Tyrold though without yet daring to avow his approaching nearer affinity Edgar insisted upon his superior claim for supplanting them in taking charge of the debt of his guardian Mr Westwyn almost angrily protested he would let no man upon earth let him be whose ward he pleased shew more respect than himself for the brother of Sir Hugh Tyrold And Hal thinks the same too he added or hes no son of mine And so hell soon shew you in a way you cant guess I give you my word At least thats my opinion
He then took his son apart and abruptly whispered to him As that pretty girl you and I took such a fancy to at Southton served us in that shabby manner because of meeting with that old Lord its my opinion youd do the right thing to take her sister whos pretty near as pretty and gives herself no airs and that will be shewing respect for my worthy old friend now hes down in the world which is exactly that he did for me when I was down myself For if he had not lent me that thousand pounds I told you of when not a relation I had would lend me a hundred I might have been ruined before ever you were born Come tell me your mind Hal off or on dont stand shilly shally its what I cant bear speak honestly I wont have your choice controlled only this one thing I must tell you without ceremony I shall never think well of you again as long as ever I live if you demur so much as a moment Its what I cant bear it int doing a thing handsomely I cant say I like it
The appearance of Lavinia relieved the immediate embarrassment of Henry while the modest pleasure with which she received them confirmed the partiality of both The eagerness however of the father admitted of no delay and when Sir Hugh entered the room the sons assent being obtained he warmly demanded the fair Lavinia for his daughterinlaw
Sir Hugh received the proposition with the most copious satisfaction Mr and Mrs Tyrold with equal though more anxious delight and Lavinia herself with blushing but unaffected hopes of happiness
Whatever was known to Sir Hugh no cautions nor even his own best designs could save from being known to the whole house Eugenia therefore was unavoidably informed of this transaction and the generous pleasure with which she revived from the almost settled melancholy left upon her by continual misfortunes justified the impatience of Edgar to accelerate the allowed period for publishing his own happy history
Eugenia wept with joy at tidings so precious of her beloved sister through whom and her other dear friends she was alone she said susceptible of joy though to all sorrow she henceforth bid adieu For henceforth she cried I mean to regard myself as if already I had passed the busy period of youth and of life and were only a spectatress of others For this purpose I have begun writing my memoirs which will amuse my solitude and confirm my—I hope philosophical idea
She then produced the opening of her intended book
SECTION I
No blooming coquette elated with adulation and triumphant with conquest here counts the glories of her eyes or enumerates the train of her adorers no beauteous prude repines at the fatigue of admiration nor bewails the necessity of tyranny O gentle reader you have the story of one from whom fate has withheld all the delicacy of vanity all the regale of cruelty—
Here interrupted the young biographer will follow my portrait and then this further address to my readers
O ye who young and fair revel in the attractions of beauty and exult in the pride of admiration say where is your envy of the heiress to whom fortune comes with such alloys And which however distressed or impoverished would accept my income with my personal defects
Ye too O lords of the creation mighty men impute not to native vanity the repining spirit with which I lament the loss of beauty attribute not to the innate weakness of my sex the concern I confess for my deformity nor to feminine littleness of soul a regret of which the true source is to be traced to your own bosoms and springs from your own tastes for the value you yourselves set upon external attractions your own neglect has taught me to know and the indifferency with which you consider all else your own duplicity has instructed me to feel
Camilla sought to dissuade her from reflexions so afflictive and retrospections so poignant but they aided her she said in her task of acquiring composure for the regulation of her future life
Edgar now received permission to make his communication to the Baronet
The joy with which Sir Hugh heard it was for some time overclouded by doubt My dear Mr young Edgar he said in case you dont know your own mind yet in the point of its not changing again as it did before Id as leave you would not tell me of it till youve taken the proper time to be at a certainty frettings about these ups and downs being what do no good to me in point of the gout
But when thoroughly reassured Well he cried this is just the thing I should have chose out of all our misfortunes being what makes me happier than ever I was in my life except once before on the very same account which all turned out to end in nothing which I hope wont happen any more for now Ive only to pay off all our debts and then I may go back again to Cleves which I shall be glad enough to do it being but an awkward thing to a man after hes past boyhood having no home of his own
A sigh at the recollection of the change in his situation since his plan was last agitated checked his felicity and depressed even that of Edgar who with the most tender earnestness besought his leave to advance the sum requisite to return him tranquilly to his mansion but who could not prevail till Camilla joined in the petition and permitted Edgar in both their names to entreat as their dearest wish that they might be united according to the first arrangement from Cleves
This the Baronet could not resist and preparations were rapidly made for reinstating him in his dwelling and for the double marriages destined to take place upon his return
Well then this cried he as he poured upon them his tenderest blessings and caresses is the oddest of all My dear little Camilla that I took all my fortune from is the very person to give me hers as soon as ever she gets it as well as my own house over my old head again after my turning her as one may say out of it which is a thing as curious in point of us poor ignorant mortals as if my brother had put it in a sermon
Such turns in the tide of fortune said Mr Tyrold are amongst the happiest lessons of humanity where those who have served the humble and helpless from motives of pure disinterestedness find they have made useful friends for themselves in the perpetual vicissitudes of our unstable condition
Why then theres but one thing more by what I can make out said the Baronet that need be much upon my mind and that Ive been thinking some time about in point of forming a scheme to get rid of which I think Ive got a pretty good one for heres Lavinia going to be married to the very oldest friend I have in the world that is to his son which is the same thing in point of bringing us all together and my own dear little girl to the best gentleman in the county except for that one thing of going off at the first which I dare say he did not mean for which reason I shall mention it no more and Indiana to one of those young captains that I cant pretend I know much of but thats very excusable in so young a person not having had much head from the beginning which I always make allowance for my own not being over extraordinary and Eugenia poor thing being a widow already for which God be praised which I hope is no sin in point of the poor lad thats gone not belonging to any of us by what I can make out except by his own doing whether we would or not which however, is neither here nor there now hes gone for Eugenia being no beauty and Clermont having as good as said so I suppose she thought she must not be too difficult which is a thing young girls are apt to fall into and boys too for the matter of that for by what I can make out of life I dont see but what a scholar thinks a girl had better be pretty than not as much as another man
But what my dear brother said Mr Tyrold is your new distress and new scheme
Why I cant say but what Im a little put out that Indiana should forget poor Mrs Margland in the particular of asking her to go to live with her which however I dare say she cant help those young captains commonly not over liking having elderly persons about them not that I mean to guess her age which I take to be fifty and upwards which is no point of ours But the thing Im thinking of is Dr Orkborne in the case of their marrying one another.'
My dear brother has any such idea occurred to them
Not as I know of but Indiana having done with one and Eugenia with the other and me Lord help me not wanting either of them why what can I do if they wont the Doctors asked to go to town for the sake of printing his papers which I begged him not to hurry for Im but little fit for learned conversation just now though when hes here he commonly says nothing only taking out his tablets to write down something that comes into his head as I suppose which I cant say is very entertaining in the light of a companion However as to his having called me a blockhead its not what I take umbrage at not being a wit being a fault of no mans except of nature, which nobody has a right to be angry at Besides as to his having a little pride its what I owe him no illwill for a scholar having nothing else but his learning is excusable for making the most of it However if they would marry one another, I cant but say I should take it very well of them The only thing I know against it is the mortal dislike they have to one another: and that my dear brother is the point I want to consult you about for then we shall be got off all round which would be a great thing off my mind
When the happy day arrived for returning to Cleves Sir Hugh retook possession of his hospitable mansion amidst the tenderest felicitations of his fond family and the almost clamorous rejoicings of the assembled poor of the neighbourhood and the following morning Mr Tyrold gave the hand of Lavinia to Harry Westwyn and Dr Marchmont united them and Edgar glowing with happiness now purified from any alloy received from the same revered hand and owed to the same honoured voice the final and lasting possession of the tearful but happy Camilla
What further remains to finish this small sketch of a Picture of Youth may be comprised in a few pages
Indiana was more fortunate in her northern expedition than experiments of that nature commonly prove Macdersey was a man of honour and possessed better claims to her than he had either language or skill to explain but the good Lord OLerney who to benevolence the most cheerful and keenness the least severe joined judgment and generosity acted as the guardian of his kinsman and placed the young couple in competence and comfort
The profession of Macdersey obliging him to sojourn frequently in country quarters Indiana when the first novelty of têteàtêtes was over wished again for the constant adulatress of her charms and endowments and to the inexpressible rapture of Sir Hugh solicited Miss Margland to be her companion and the influence of constant flattery was so seductive to her weak mind that though insensible to the higher motive of cherishing her in remembrance of her long cares she was so spoilt by her blandishments and so accustomed to her management that she parted from her no more
Lavinia with her deserving partner spent a month between Cleves and Etherington and then accompanied him and his fond father to their Yorkshire estate and residence Like all characters of radical worth she grew daily upon the esteem and affection of her new family and found in her husband as marked a contrast with Clermont Lynmere to annul all Hypothesis of Education as Lord OLerney cool rational and penetrating opposed to Macdersey wild eccentric and vehement offered against all that is National Brought up under the same tutor the same masters and at the same university with equal care equal expence equal opportunities of every kind Clermont turned out conceited voluptuous and shallow Henry modest full of feeling and stored with intelligence
Lionel first enraged but next tamed by the disinheritance which he had drawn upon himself had ample subject in his disappointment to keep alive his repentance And though enabled to return from banishment by the ignominious condemnation with another culprit of the late partner in his guilt he felt so lowered from his fallen prospects and so gloomy from his altered spirits that when his parents satisfied with his punishment held out the olivebranch to invite him home he came forth again rather as if condemned than forgiven and wholly wanting fortitude either to see or to avoid his former associates he procured an appointment that carried him abroad where his friends induced him to remain till his bad habits as well as bad connections were forgotten and time aided adversity in forming him a new character
Clermont for whom his uncle bought a commission fixed himself in the army though with no greater love of his country than was appendant to the opportunity it afforded of shewing his fine person to regimental advantage
Mrs Arlbery was amongst the first to hasten with congratulations to Camilla With too much understanding to betray her pique upon the errour of her judgment as to the means of attaching Mandlebert she had too much goodness of heart not to rejoice in the happiness of her young friend
Mrs Lissin who accompanied her in the wedding visit confessed herself the most disappointed and distressed of human beings She had not she said half so much liberty as when she lived with her Papa and heartily repented marrying and wished she had never thought of it The servants were always teazing her for orders and directions every thing that went wrong it was always she who was asked why it was not right when she wanted to be driving about all day the coachman always said it was too much for the horses when she travelled the maids always asked her what must be packed up if she happened to be out at dinner time Mr Lissin found fault with every things being cold if she wanted to do something she liked he said she had better let it alone and in fine her violent desire for this state of freedom ended in conceiving it a state of bondage she found her own house the house of which she must take the charge being her own mistress having the burthen of superintending a whole family and being married becoming the property of another to whom she made over a legal right to treat her just as he pleased And as she had chosen neither for character nor for disposition neither from sympathy nor respect she found it hard to submit where she meant to become independent and difficult to take the cares where she had made no provision for the solaces of domestic life
The notable Mrs Mittin contrived soon to so usefully ingratiate herself in the favour of Mr Dennel that in the full persuasion she would save him half his annual expences he married her but her friend Mr Clykes was robbed in his journey home of the cash which he had so dishonourably gained
The first care of Edgar was to clear every debt in which Camilla had borne any share and then to make over to Lavinia the little portion intended to be parted between the sisters Henry would have resisted but Mr Tyrold knew the fortune of Edgar to be fully adequate to his generosity and sustained the proposition. Sir Sedley Clarendel received his two hundred pounds without opposition though with surprise and was dubious whether to rejoice in the shackles he had escaped or to lament the charmer he had lost
Sir Hugh would suffer no one but himself to clear the debts of his two nephews or refund what had been advanced by his excellent old friend Mr Westwyn He called back all his servants liberally recompensed their marked attachment provided particularly for good old Jacob and took upon himself the most ample reward for the postillion who meant to rescue Eugenia
The prisoner and his wife now worthy established cottagers were the first at the entrance of Beech Park to welcome the bride and bridegroom and little Peggy Higden was sent for immediately and placed with extremest kindness where she might rise in use and in profit
Lord OLerney was sedulously sought by Edgar who had the infinite happiness to see Camilla a selected friend of Lady Isabella Irby whose benevolent care of her in the season of her utter distress had softly enchained her tenderest gratitude and had excited in himself an almost adoring respect
Melmond had received in time the caution of Camilla to prevent the meeting to which the baseness of Bellamy was deluding his misguided sister through her own wild theories He forbore to blast her fame by calling him publicly to account and ere further arts could be practised Bellamy was no more
Mrs Berlinton in the shock of sudden sorrow shut herself up from the world Claims of debts of honour which she had no means to answer pursued her in her retreat she became at once the prey of grief repentance and shame and her mind was yet young enough in wrong to be penetrated by the early chastisement of calamity Removed from the whirl of pleasure which takes reflexion from action and feeling from thought she reviewed with poignant contrition her graceless misconduct with regard to Eugenia detested her infatuation and humbled herself to implore forgiveness Her aunt seized the agitating moment of self-upbraiding and worldly disgust to impress upon her fears the lessons of her opening life and thus repulsed from passion and sickened of dissipation though too illiberally instructed for cheerful and rational piety she was happily snatched from utter ruin by protecting though eccentric enthusiasm
Eugenia for some time continued in voluntary seclusion happily reaping from the fruits of her education and her virtues resources and reflexions for retirement that robbed it of weariness The name the recollection of Bellamy always made her shudder but the peace of perfect innocence was soon restored to her mind The sufferings of Mrs Berlinton from selfreproach taught her yet more fully to value the felicity of blamelessness and the generous liberality of her character made the first inducement she felt for exertion the benevolence of giving solace to a penitent who had injured her
Melmond long conscious of her worth and disgusted with all that had rivalled it in his mind with the fervour of sincerity yet diffidence of shame and regret now fearfully sought the favour he before had reluctantly received But Eugenia retreated She had no courage for a new engagement no faith for new vows no hope for new happiness till his really exemplary character with the sympathy of his feelings and the similarity of his taste and turn of mind with her own made the Tyrolds when they perceived his ascendance second his wishes Approbation so sacred joined to a prepossession so tender soon conquered every timid difficulty in the ingenuous Eugenia who in his wellearnt esteem and grateful affection received at length the recompence of every exerted virtue and the solace of every past suffering Melmond in a companion delighting in all his favourite pursuits and capable of joining even in his severer studies found a charm to beguile from him all former regret while reason and experience endeared his ultimate choice Eugenia once loved was loved for ever Where her countenance was looked at her complexion was forgotten while her voice was heard her figure was unobserved where her virtues were known they seemed but to be enhanced by her personal misfortunes
The Baronet was enchanted to see her thus unexpectedly happy and soon transferred to Melmond the classical respect which Clermont had forfeited when he concurred with Eugenia in a petition that Dr Orkborne without further delay might be enabled to retire to his own plans and pursuits with such just and honourable consideration for labours he well knew how to appreciate as his friend Mr Tyrold should judge to be worthy of his acceptance
With joy expanding to that thankfulness which may be called the beauty of piety the virtuous Tyrolds as their first blessings received these blessings of their children and the beneficent Sir Hugh felt every wish so satisfied he could scarcely occupy himself again with a project save a maxim of prudence drawn from his own experience which he daily planned teaching to the little generation rising around him To avoid from the disasters of their Uncle the Dangers and Temptations to their Descendants of Unsettled Collateral Expectations
Thus ended the long conflicts doubts suspences and sufferings of Edgar and Camilla who without one inevitable calamity one unavoidable distress so nearly fell the sacrifice to the two extremes of Imprudence and Suspicion to the natural heedlessness of youth unguided or to the acquired distrust of experience that had been wounded Edgar by generous confidence became the repository of her every thought and her friends read her exquisite lot in a gaiety no longer to be feared while faithful to his word making Etherington Cleves and Beech Park his alternate dwellings he rarely parted her from her fond Parents and enraptured Uncle And Dr Marchmont as he saw the pure innocence open frankness and spotless honour of her heart found her virtues her errours her facility or her desperation but A PICTURE OF YOUTH and regretting the false light given by the spirit of comparison in the hypothesis which he had formed from individual experience acknowledged its injustice its narrowness and its arrogance What at last so diversified as man what so little to be judged by his fellow
FINIS