"What! does he intend to return to the pomps and vanities of this wicked world?"
"Yes, I believe so, and his wife will join him. She has no objection to decorate her pretty person."
"I never thought that she had—but Susannah Temple—"
"When Susannah is away from her friends, when she finds that her sister and brother-in-law no longer wear the dress, and when she is constantly in your company, to all which please to add the effect I trust of my serious admonitions, she will soon do as others do, or she is no woman. This is all my plan, and leave it to me—only play your part by seeing as much of her as you can."
"You need not fear that," replied I.
"Does your father know of your attachment?" inquired Mr Masterton.
"No, I passed her over without mentioning her name," replied I. "It is too soon yet to talk to him about my marrying; in fact, the proposal must, if possible, come from him. Could not you manage that?"
"Yes, I will if I can; but, as you say, wait awhile. Here is their address—you must call to-morrow, if you can; and do you think you can dine with me on Thursday?"
"Yes, if the general continues improving; if not, I will send you word."
The next day I complained of a headache, and said, that I would walk out until dinner-time. I hastened to the address given me by Mr Masterton, and found that Mr Cophagus and his wife were out, but Susannah remained at home. After our first questions, I inquired of her how she liked London.