Laura.



LETTER 8th
LAURA to MARIANNE, in continuation

Lady Dorothea had not left us long before another visitor as
unexpected a one as her Ladyship, was announced. It was Sir
Edward, who informed by Augusta of her Brother's marriage, came
doubtless to reproach him for having dared to unite himself to me
without his Knowledge. But Edward foreseeing his design,
approached him with heroic fortitude as soon as he entered the
Room, and addressed him in the following Manner.

"Sir Edward, I know the motive of your Journey here--You come
with the base Design of reproaching me for having entered into an
indissoluble engagement with my Laura without your Consent. But
Sir, I glory in the Act--. It is my greatest boast that I have
incurred the displeasure of my Father!"

So saying, he took my hand and whilst Sir Edward, Philippa, and
Augusta were doubtless reflecting with admiration on his
undaunted Bravery, led me from the Parlour to his Father's
Carriage which yet remained at the Door and in which we were
instantly conveyed from the pursuit of Sir Edward.

The Postilions had at first received orders only to take the
London road; as soon as we had sufficiently reflected However, we
ordered them to Drive to M----. the seat of Edward's most