Page:Lady Anne Granard 1.pdf/82

Rh Mrs. Palmer as mamma is, I could die before I could ask a favour of her." This speech was unheard, as Lady Anne was busy, writing to her opposite neighbour the following note:— "Dear madam—I am just hurried out of my life by the unexpected arrival of an old friend of our family's, who has just come into his uncle, Mr. Glentworth's property, and a visit to England has become necessary. He dines with us to-morrow; and, what with my sudden arrival from Brighton, and one thing or other, we are in utter confusion. May I rely on your kindness to supply our deficiencies in plate, china, &c? Perhaps also you will allow your cook to give mine some instructions. It is of such vital importance to the dear children's interests, that Mr. Glentworth should be conciliated, that I know you will be interested in our behalf. I shall send two of the girls over with this petit billet to receive your instructions. "Yours, dear Mrs. Palmer, "Most truly, "" The note was written in a delicate hand with a crow-quill, on primrose-coloured paper, with a lilac seal—the motto "tout à vous;" and the whole with just a faint perfume of jasmine. It was, as Lady Anne said, "perfectly irresistible. You will take this note at once," she added, addressing Georgiana and Isabella. "Oh! mamma," cried the latter, "could you not send the page?"