to music and mirth. She heard no noise but of his own making: it
was impossible to manage a family in dumb-shew. He might harp as
long as he pleased upon her scolding; but she never scolded,
except for his advantage; but he would never be satisfied, even
tho'f she should sweat blood and water in his service -- I have a
great notion that our aunt, who is now declining into the most
desperate state of celibacy, had formed some design upon the
heart of Sir Ulic Mackilligut, which she feared might be
frustrated by our abrupt departure from these lodgings. Her
brother, eyeing her askance, 'Pardon me, sister (said he) I
should be a savage, indeed, were I insensible of my own felicity,
in having such a mild, complaisant, good-humoured, and
considerate companion and housekeeper;
but as I have got a weak head, and my sense of hearing is
painfully acute, before I have recourse to plugs of wool and
cotton, I'll try whether I can't find another lodging, where I
shall have more quiet and less music.' He accordingly dispatched
his man upon this service; and next day he found a small house in
Milsham-street, which he hires by the week. Here, at least, we
enjoy convenience and quiet within doors, as much as Tabby's
temper will allow; but the squire still complains of flying pains
in the stomach and head, for which he bathes and drinks the
waters. He is not so bad, however, but that he goes in person to
the pump, the rooms, and the coffeehouses; where he picks up
continual food for ridicule and satire. If I can glean any thing
for your amusement, either from his observation or my own, you
shall have it freely, though I am afraid it will poorly
compensate the trouble of reading these tedious
insipid letters of,