Page:The Naval Officer (1829), vol. 3.djvu/88

 residence on. Blackheath by the time the dressingbell rang, and never failed to meet a pleasant party at dinner. My father and dear Clara were guests in the house as well as myself. By Mr. Somerville's kind permission, I introduced Talbot, who, being a perfect gentleman in his manners, a man of sound sense, good education, and high aristocratic connexions, I was proud to call my friend. I presented him particularly to my sister, and took an opportunity of whispering in Emily's ear, where I knew it would not long remain, that he possessed the indispensable - qualification of two epaulettes. '+ Therefore, said I, "pray do not trust yourself too near him, for fear you should be taken by surprise, like the True-blooded Yankee.".

Talbot knowing that Emily was bespoken, paid her no more than the common attentions which courtesy demands; but to Clara his demeanour was very different: and her natural attractions were much enhanced in his eyes, by the friendship which we had entertained for each