She said, she hoped to be better acquainted—("I hope not," thought
I)—and that I would give her my company, for a week or so, upon the
Forest: it seems she has a seat upon Windsor Forest.
"Mr. B. says," added she, "you can't ride a single horse; but we'll teach you there. 'Tis a sweet place for that purpose."
"How came Mr. B.," thought I, "to tell you that, Madam? I suppose you know more of me than I do myself." Indeed, my lady, this may be too true; for she may know what is to become of me!
I told her, I was very much obliged to her ladyship; and that Mr. B. directed all my motions.
"What say you, Sir?" said the Countess.
"I can't promise that. Madam: for Mrs. B. wants to go down to Kent, before we go to Bedfordshire, and I am afraid I can't give her my company thither."
"Then, Sir, I shan't choose to go without you."
"I suppose not, my dear. But if you are disposed to oblige the
Countess for a week, as you never were at Windsor—"
"I believe, Sir," interrupted I, "what with my little nursery, and one thing or another, I must deny myself that honour, for this season."
"Well, Madam, then I'll expect you in Pall Mall."