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"I know not, alas!—but I mean to make an attempt at Howel Place."
The countenance of Elinor now lost its rigidity, and with a cry almost of extacy, she exclaimed, "Upon Lord Melbury?—your new admirer? O go to him!—hasten to him!—dear, charming Ellis, away to him once!—"
Ellis, half smiling, answered, "No, Madam; I go to Lady Aurora Granville."
Elinor, without replying, left the room; but, quick in action as in idea, returned, almost instantly, loaded with a packet of clothes.
"Here, most beautified Ophelia!" she cried, "look over this trumpery. You know how skilfully you can arrange it. You must not appear to disadvantage Lord Melbury."
Ellis now, nearly offended, drew back.
"O, I know I ought to be excommunicated for giving such a hint," cried Elinor, whose spirits were rather exalted than recovered; "though every body sees how the poor boy is bewitched with you:
