guardianship). What have I to do with dissipating pleasures and idle acquaintances, when my whole time will be occupied with domestic ones? And what right has a mere girl to think such a man as Glentworth (a superior man I may well call him) should give, not only affection, but time, and talent, to me? No, no; he shall live in the world he will adorn and bless, and I will be his principal admirer."
The little coterie surrounding the fauteuil of the invalid were, in the first place, all female; but several gentlemen gathered round them, and the rubber being finished, the Count begged them not to renew it, in order that they might induce the remaining visitants to go into the supper-room, and enable Lady Anne to retire. In consequence, Glentworth heard the greatest part of what was said by his young wife, as he stood behind her, and began eagerly to inquire, what had given rise to the conversation. When informed, he determined to lose no time in presenting himself, and mentioned his intention openly, in order to gain the opinion of those around him, which was well worth ascertaining.
In truth, they were a respectable, pleasant, but grave company; for Lady Anne, being compelled by her friends to admit one younger brother, was determined no more of the abhorred race should
