Lady, she thought, could not possibly be mistaken; and therefore she resolved to carry her Message to him immediately, though it was then late in the Evening.
Accordingly she went to her Brother's, where she had some Hope of meeting with him; but not finding him there, she obliged him to go to the House where he lived, and tell him she desired to speak with him.
William, being let into the Secret of his Sister's frequent Meetings with Mr. Hervey, imagined she had some agreeable News to acquaint him with; and therefore ran immediately to his Relation's House, which was but at a small Distance; but he was told Mr. Hervey was in Bed, very much indisposed, and could not be seen.
This News put Lucy in a terrible Fright: She told her Apprehensions to her Brother; which being such as her Lady had put into her Head, and were now confirmed by Mr. Hervey's Illness, the young Farmer stood amazed, not being able to comprehend her Meaning; and she, without staying to explain herself any further, went home to the Castle, and told her Lady, That what she feared was come to pass; the Gentleman would certainly die; for he was very ill in Bed.
This being no more than what Arabella expected, she discovered no Surprize; but only asked Lucy, If she had delivered her Message to him?
Would you have me, Madam, replied she, go to his House? I am afraid the Marquis will hear of it.
