 yielded to his repeated
desire, that we might be united for ever: nay, I resolved to avoid him, until
the day should be fixed, and very innocently (though not very wisely) told him
my reason for this determination, which was no other than a consciousness of my
incapacity to refuse him any thing he should demand as a testimony of my love.
    The time was accordingly appointed, at the distance of a few days, during
which I intended to have implored my father's consent, though I had but faint
hopes of obtaining it: but, he was by some means or other apprized of our
design, before I could prevail upon myself to make him acquainted with our
purpose. I had danced with my lover at the Ridotto on the preceding evening, and
there, perhaps, our eyes betrayed us. Certain it is, several of lord W--m's
relations, who disapproved of the match, came up and rallied him on his passion;
lord S--k in particular, used this remarkable expression, »Nephew, as much love
as you please, but no matrimony.«
    Next day, the priest being prepared, and the bridegroom waiting for me at
the appointed place, in all the transports of impatient expectation, I was,
without any previous warning, carried into the country by my father, who took no
notice of the intelligence he had received, but decoyed me into the coach, on
pretence of taking the air; and when we had proceeded as far as Turnham green,
gave me to understand, that he would dine in that place.
    There was no remedy: I was obliged to bear my disappointment, though with an
aching heart, and followed him up stairs into an apartment, where he told me he
was minutely informed of my matrimonial scheme. I did not attempt to disguise
the truth, but assured him, while the tears gushed from my eyes, that my want of
courage alone had hindered me from making him privy to my passion; though I
owned, I should have married lord W--m, even though he had disapproved of my
choice. I reminded him of the uneasy life I led at home, and frankly
acknowledged, that I loved my admirer too well to live without him; though if he
would favour me with his consent, I would defer my intention, and punctually
observe any day he should fix for our nuptials. Mean while, I begged he would
permit me to send a message to lord W--m, who was waiting in expectation of my
coming, and might (
