looks of her brother,
that I am not insensible of this young nobleman's affection for me; but, after this candid confession, you ought to believe me, when I assure you, that I will enter into no engagement with him without your approbation and to make you easy, I will comply with

any measures you think proper, to avoid his pursuits.

"I see I may rely upon you," said Mr. Courteney, charmed with her amiable frankness;
but, my dear Henrietta, I hope you will not allow this prepossession to take too deep root in your heart: sure your good sense, and the delicacy of your sentiments, will hinder you from giving way to a hopeless passion.

"I beg you not to talk to me on this subject," interrupted Henrietta, tears, in spite of her endeavours to restrain them, flowing fast down her face;
only tell me what you would have me do to avoid the marquis: have you formed any plan? Doubt not of my readiness to comply with it.


Have you any objections to boarding in a convent till Mr. Bale comes?
said Mr. Courteney.


No (replied Henrietta, half smiling) for I cannot suspect you have a design upon my religion, as my aunt had, and mean to confine me all my life.

"No, really," resumed Mr. Courteney, smiling likewise;
but it will be more difficult for the marquis to get access to you in a convent than here; and as it is probable enough that this affair will make some noise, it will

be more for your reputation to have it known that you lived in such a respectable society, where there were so many witnesses of your conduct, and such exact regularity required, than in private lodgings, where you were accountable to no body for your actions.


Then you intend to leave me before Mr. Bale comes?
said Henrietta, sighing.


To be sure (replied Mr. Courteney) I will force the marquis away if possible; and if I find all my remonstrances ineffectual, the duke must interpose his authority.

"You intend to write to him then?" said Henrietta.

Certainly (replied he) don't you think I ought to do so, sister?

"Indeed I do," answered she.

I am glad of it (resumed Mr. Courteney) yet this procedure will embroil me more with the marquis; but I see no help for it, unless Mr. Bale should happen to come sooner than we expect, and take you with him to England I hope to