Page:The Wanderer (1814 Volume 3).pdf/336

 of the little boy, who was sitting a straddle out of one of the windows.

"But I had flattered myself," cried Sir Marmaduke Crawley, addressing Mrs. Ireton, "that we should have a little music?"

Mrs. Ireton, to whom the talents of Juliet gave pleasure in proportion only to her own repugnance to bringing them into play, had relinquished the projected performance, when she perceived the general interest which was excited by the mere appearance of the intended performer. She declared herself, therefore, so extremely fearful lest some mischief should befal her little nephew, that she could not possibly trust him from the care of Miss Ellis.

Half the company, now, urged by the thirst of fresh amusement, professed the most passionate fondness for children, and offered their services to watch the dear, sweet little boy, while Miss Ellis should play or sing; but the averseness of Ellis remained uncombated by