Page:Romance & Reality 3.pdf/191

Rh de Ligne, who always considered choice as her privilege, had a fancy for being sentimental; the livelier sister was, therefore, left in Emily's hands. Lorraine and Spenser were to enact the lovers; and the one or two subordinate parts were soon filled up by the rest of the company. Both Madame de Ligne and Edward acted admirably. Spenser was out of humour, and took his Englishman's privilege of shewing it: but Emily was the charm of the piece. Her vivacity appeared as graceful as it was buoyant; her gay spirit seemed the musical overflowings of youth and happiness; her eye and cheek brightened together; and her sweet glad laugh was as catching as yawning. It is utterly impossible to say more. The little piece was shortened by Madame de Ligne, who, having always looked upon Emily as a pretty painting, had only expected her to make a good side-scene and was more surprised than pleased by a display that cast herself quite into the background. "Indeed, Ellen," said Lord Mandeville, earnestly, "our little Emily is overacting her part. I grant that Lorraine must be struck with her improvement; but, indeed, there is too much display for attraction."