to be sure, they may have a contrary tendency; but, on a vigorous understanding, with a firm, self-possessing heart, their effects are most certainly beneficial. You yourself, my dear, whose mind surpasses in strength that of most ladies, by occasionally witnessing such fashionable amusements, (as they are called, very improperly, I admit,) would be, if possible, more riveted in your aversion.' In the course of our intimacy, I was prevailed on to be present at some of her ladyship's routs; and, though she and I in private concurred in expressing our reprobation of gaming, I did not find my aversion by any means increase, and was indeed so delighted with her ladyship's own particular friends, whose manners were extremely engaging; and with the exquisite music, and other parts of her entertainments, in which nothing was neglected to gratify the taste, and enchant the
