Page:Memoirs of a Woman of Pleasure (1749, vol. 2).pdf/147

 I stood now in no need of this preamble of encouragement, or justification: my word was given, and I was determin'd to fulfil my engagements; accordingly the night was set, and I had all the necessary previous instructions how to act and conduct myself. The dining-room was duly prepar'd and lighted up, and the young gentleman posted there in waiting for my introduction to him.

I was then, by Mrs. Cole, handed in, and presented to him in a loose dishabil, fitted, by her direction, to the exercise I was to go through, all in the finest linnen, and a thorough white-uniform: gown, petticoat, stockings, and sattin slippers, like a victim led to the sacrifice; whilst my dark auburn hair, falling in drop-curls over my neck, created a pleasing distinction of colour from the rest of my dress.

As soon as Mr. Barvile saw me, he got up with a visible air of pleasure and surprise, and after saluting me, ask'd Mrs. Cole if it was possible that so fine,