"And does Miss Anville feel no concern at the idea of the many mourners her absence will occasion?"
"O, my Lord,—I'm sure you don't think—" I stopt there, for, indeed, I hardly knew what I was going to say. My foolish embarrassment, I suppose, was the cause of what followed;—for he came to me, and took my hand, saying, "I do think, that whoever has once seen Miss Anville, must receive an impression never to be forgotten."
This compliment,—from Lord Orville,—so surprised me, that I could not speak; but felt myself change colour, and stood, for some moments, silent and looking down: however, the instant I recollected my situation, I withdrew my hand, and told him that I would see if Mrs. Mirvan was not dressed. He did not oppose me, so away I went.
I met them all on the stairs, and returned with them to breakfast.
I have since been extremely angry with myself for neglecting so excellent an opportunity of apologizing for my behaviour at the Ridotto: but, to own the truth, that affair never once occurred to me during the short tête-à-tête which we had together. But, if, ever we should happen to be so situated again, I will certainly mention it;for
