Page:Modern literature (1804 Volume 2).djvu/121

 turns on one subject; nor was the present an exception; soals, turbot, and Down mutton, being the chief topics discussed. The fruits and wines having passed the same ordeal of criticism, the conversation took a more liberal and enlarged range, and entered on such literary subjects, as were within the knowledge of the fair members of the party. Among these were included novels, which, though one of the first writers of the age was present, the Captain, more naturally benevolent, than artificially polite, introduced. "My good friend Mrs. Somerive," said he, "though I always could see that you had great abilities, and knew much more than most young ladies of your age; but I did not think you would have been an author." A cloud was beginning to overcast the countenance of the lady at these words; but her recollection and good sense presently dispelled it; and the Cap