known to write personally to the parents of her pupils; and it was
Jemima's opinion that if anything could console Mrs. Birch for her daughter's
loss, it would be that pious and eloquent composition in which Miss Pinkerton
announced the event.
    In the present instance Miss Pinkerton's billet was to the following effect:
-
 
                                              »The Mall, Chiswick, June 15, 18-.
        Madam, - After her six years' residence at the Mall, I have the honour
        and happiness of presenting Miss Amelia Sedley to her parents, as a
        young lady not unworthy to occupy a fitting position in their polished
        and refined circle. Those virtues which characterize the young English
        gentlewoman, those accomplishments which become her birth and station,
        will not be found wanting in the amiable Miss Sedley, whose industry and
        obedience have endeared her to her instructors, and whose delightful
        sweetness of temper has charmed her aged and her youthful companions.
            In music, in dancing, in orthography, in every variety of embroidery
        and needlework, she will be found to have realized her friends' fondest
        wishes. In geography there is still much to be desired; and a careful
        and undeviating use of the backboard, for four hours daily during the
        next three years, is recommended as necessary to the acquirement of that
        dignified deportment and carriage, so requisite for every young lady of
        fashion.
            In the principles of religion and morality, Miss Sedley will be
        found worthy of an establishment which has been honoured by the presence
        of The Great Lexicographer, and the patronage of the admirable Mrs.
        Chapone. In leaving the Mall, Miss Amelia carries with her the hearts of
        her companions, and the affectionate regards of her mistress, who has
        the honour to subscribe herself,
                                        Madam, your most obliged humble servant,
                                                              BARBARA PINKERTON.
        P.S. - Miss Sharp accompanies Miss Sedley. It is particularly requested
        that Miss Sharp's stay in Russell Square may not exceed ten days. The
        family of distinction with whom she is engaged desire to avail
        themselves of her services as soon as possible.«
 
This letter completed, Miss Pinkerton proceeded to write her own name and Miss
Sedley's in the fly-leaf of a Johnson's Dictionary - the interesting work which
she invariably presented to her scholars on their departure from the Mall. On
the cover was inserted a copy of »Lines addressed to a young lady on quitting
Miss Pinkerton's school, at the Mall; by the late revered Doctor Samuel
Johnson.« In fact, the Lexicographer's name was always on the lips of this
majestic woman, and a visit he had