CHAPTER XLV.
The scene of courtship and union we have described was broken in upon by farmers and their sons, eager to pay their homage to a landlord they honoured, to talk over the situation of their crops, protest against the weather, which never does right, sue for favours, deplore difficulties, and trust that the next possessor would be just like the last. Some brought their rents, others only the arrears of rent, and asked more time; and at Sir Edward's request, Georgiana made minutes of all that passed, writing receipts for the baronet to sign, and memoranda on which he meant to take counsel with his heir, or his neighbour. When Georgiana perceived that he was fatigued, she gave prompt orders that no more should be admitted that day, and having persuaded him to take some light refreshment, and lie down on the sofa, she arranged his cushions, and left him to repose, with a heart so full of joy, she thought it scarcely possible that she could be more happy.
"I have finished for Sir Edward, can I do any thing for you, ma'am?" said she to the Countess, who was apparently busy with her pen.
