Page:Lady Anne Granard 3.pdf/185

Rh make it a fashion—"it would not be the first time she had brought a thing in which had a long run, nor could she see any reason why it should be the last, as it was plain, though she could not go out of the house, she must receive many friends in it." (It will be owned, at the present day, Lady Anne was as good as her word, for many a plump and lovely face, in the full bloom of youth and health, is at this moment half hidden by blonde, flowers, and ribands, and many a forehead, neither high nor classical, denuded of those curls, which are the natural ornament of youth and modesty.) When Georgiana heard of her destination, she naturally enough concluded, that poor Arthur was exceedingly ill, and called her to his death-bed; but Mrs. Palmer sent her over the way, that she might read Lord Meersbrook's letter, and, committing Lady Anne to Fanchette, who was never so happy and attentive as when her lady was increasing her stock of finery, took Helen aside, and inquired what Georgiana wanted most, and what she could help her with? This was, indeed, little; but oh! with what fullness of good-will was all she had laid on her bed for the good neighbour to choose! how warmly was every thing that had any pretence recommended, even while the heart was aching with the recollection that Lord Meersbrook