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LADY ANNE GRANARD.
279

which had placed him on the rack contributed to save him from the danger threatened by driving the gout to his foot, but there it became stationary, and Georgiana, as the kindest of nurses with the lightest of hands, became not less so.

The following day the visiters set out, which they could not whilst the Earl was placed in such an alarming position. Lord Meersbrook promised Georgiana that as soon as he was able he would go to Brighton, and endeavour to be of use to her sisters, for which she warmly thanked him, but added especial entreaties, that "his highest cares, his unceasing attention, should be paid to that 'beloved angel' of a man, Sir Edward."

"You are so nervous and excited, Georgiana, that I dare not allow you to bid my grandfather farewell, on the point of what is to him a long journey; it would not do to move his feelings; I know he could not bear your tears. Indeed, you must grow firmer, or you will never do for a sailor's wife."

"I cannot wonder that you are afraid of me; but, indeed, I will be very good; only let me look at him once more, and hear his voice."

"Well, then, come to us at the very last, when he is in the carriage. I will let you know the proper moment."

And thankfully did Georgiana embrace it; controlling her feelings, and springing into the carriage, she gave and received an embrace truly paternal, but a