in her endeavours to procure a residence for them; "and, fortunately, (said she) only three doors from hence; if you are inclined, we can now look at it." The proposal was accepted. The house and furniture, which had been all new within the twelvemonth, and belonged to Lord G———, who found it convenient to go abroad for his health; was now to be let for a year certain, at 400l. per annum. They were extremely well pleased with the house, and readily agreed to the terms. Within two or three days it would be ready for their reception.
This being settled, they returned in high spirits, and spent a most delightful day in a quiet family party.
The next day was appropriated to shopping and excursions round the town; and indeed, except sleeping hours, they passed their time solely together; Mrs. Courtney having shut her doors to all company, till they were settled in their new abode: for the same reason the Marquis deferred sending all his letters of recommendation, or waiting on the French ambassador.
The fourth day after their arrival in England they took possession of their house; and having been fortunate enough to obtain a respectable woman, who was perfectly conversant in the French language, as housekeeper, they agreed to spend the following week in the country, previous to their being publicly announced in town.
Nothing particular occurred until their arrival at Bellvue, Mrs. Courtney's little paradise; they were quite delighted with its situation, and charmed with its polite and friendly owner. The second morning after their residence here, the Countess entered the Marchioness's dressing-room, (Matilda was with her;) "Mrs. Courtney has just got two or three neighbours with her; my presence not being necessary, I have seized the opportunity, to make our respective communications: I am sensible you must be very curious,
