take it composedly, too, considering how much enthusiastic admiration you have been deprived of at one stroke. But was there not really a sonnet of your writing sent to Lady Worrymore?
CLERMONT.
I blush to say there was. But Blount's waggery has proved my friend. He gave her that written by her own husband in its stead.
MISS FRANKLAND.
And what has become of it?
CLERMONT.
It is burnt, gentle friend, and shall disturb you no more.
MISS FRANKLAND.
And of what importance can it now be, whether I am disturbed by it or not?
CLERMONT.
Of more importance than ever; since your good opinion is more necessary to my happiness than it has ever been before. I know the generosity of your feelings, which has stirred up a quarrel between us, that I might on your change of circumstances feel myself a free man, without reproach or censure. But you will not find it so easy to get rid of me, dear Fanny, as of your fortune.
