seven years the older, and that the peerage tells every body (more the pity) exact truth! besides, the difference in their style of person, which is by no means in his lordship's favour! However, it is my part to extol his person, and to prove that time makes no difference in men, though ruinous to women!"
Lady Anne's wishes respecting the marquis were borne out the following day at Mr. Palmer's very efficiently, for Lord Meersbrook was full of his praise, reverting to the value of his own introduction as contrasted with that of Lord Byron, whom, he modestly observed, had deserved the honour so much better. "That remains to be seen in one sense, my lord; for, although one cannot hope to see you so great a poet as Lord Byron, and therefore not claiming the distinction which he ought to have received on the occasion alluded to, yet I think you will be a better man, a better husband, a"
"Pardon me, I don't think I shall be a husband soon. I admire English young ladies, but English wives are my horror!"
"Dear me! you know nothing about them—how should you?"
"I will appeal to Lady Anne Granard, at whose house I formed my judgment whether two ladies of rank and beauty did not conduct themselves in a most indecorous manner?"
"I think with you, my lord, exactly. But surely
