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 added, "You must never mind what I say, nor what I do; for I sport all sort of things, and in all sort of manners. But it is merely to keep off stagnation: I dread nothing like a lethargy. But pray what were you all about just now?"

The Incognita related her intended purpose; its interruption; the offer of Mr. Harleigh; and its acceptance.

Elinor looked perturbed again, and said, "You seem mighty fond, methinks, of employing Mr. Harleigh for your Mercury!"

"He is so good as to employ himself. I could never think of taking such a liberty."

Elinor put up her lip; but told her to make what use she could of the parcel, and, with an abrupt "Good morning," went down to breakfast.

The stranger, amazed and confounded, remained for some time absorbed by conjectures upon this scene.

The parcel contained cast-off clothes