of improving, but preparing her for the yet more brilliant society of Paris.
She accordingly one morning set out with her for this purpose; and, during the ride, endeavoured to re-assure the timid Madeline, who wished, yet dreaded an introduction, lest she should not acquit herself properly: the lively conversation of her friend, and the novelty of every thing she saw, pretty well however dissipated her fears ere she reached the house; which stood at the farther end of the town, in a large court surrounded with rows of chestnut trees, and wearing an appearance of cheerfulness that justly indicated the temper of its owners. The Countess had the satisfaction of finding them at home, and was immediately ushered into a room, where they sat alone. They both flew to her with open arms; but when they heard how long she had been returned to the country, could not refrain reproaching her amidst their embraces for not letting them know of her arrival. She gave the real reason as an
