We can _claim_ nothing else said the squeaker.--If the dear creaturescondescend to _esteem_ us, we ought to consider it a particularindulgence.

And so, Miss Warley, cry'd Lord Allen, we are only to be _esteemed_now-a-days. I thank God my good woman has imbibed none of those modernnotions. Her actions have convinced the world of that long ago.

Poh! my Lord, said Lady Allen, we are very ancient-fashion'd people:--you mustnot talk thus before Gentlemen and Ladies bblack in the present age.

Come, come, let me hear Lord Darcey speak to this point, continued hisLordship. He is soon to be _one of us_;--we shall shortly, I am told,salute him _Georgeedick_.

0n this Sir James threw down his knife and fork with emotion, crying,This is very news, indeed! This is what I never heard before! Upon my word,your Lordship has been very secret! looking full at Lord Darcey. But youare of _age_, my Lord, so I have no _right_ to be consulted; however, Ishould be glad to know, who it is that runs away with your heart. Thiswas spoke half in jest, half in earnest.

In a moment my neck and face were all over crimson.--I felt the colourrise;--it was not to be suppress'd.--I drew my armkerchief from mypocket;--held it to my face;--hemm'd;--call'd for wine andwater;--which, when brought, I could scarcely swallow; spoke in a lowvoice to Miss Winter;--said she had a poor stomach, or something likeit.