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172 first, because the name is good, and, secondly, because it is common. My long and dear friendship with your brother makes me feel peculiarly anxious on any point relative to his niece; and, indeed, my dear William, over-rating perhaps my knowledge of the world, and my influence in society,—but not my affection for him,—besought me to assume the liberty of esteeming myself a friend, nay, even a relation of yours and Miss Brandon's, so that I trust you do not consider my caution impertinent."

The flattered Squire assured him that he was particularly honoured, so far from deeming his Lordship—(which never could be the case with people so distinguished as his Lordship was, especially!)—impertinent.

Lord Mauleverer, encouraged by this speech, artfully renewed, and succeeded, if not in convincing the Squire that the handsome Captain was a suspicious character, at least in persuading him that common prudence required that he