The death of the Dean her uncle had, indeed, much alarmed him; he
grieved at her leaving Suffolk, where he considered himself the
first man, alike in parts and in consequence, and he dreaded her
residing in London, where he foresaw that numerous rivals, equal to
himself in talents and in riches, would speedily surround her;
rivals, too, youthful and sanguine, not shackled by present ties,
but at liberty to solicit her immediate acceptance. Beauty and
independence, rarely found together, would attract a crowd of
suitors at once brilliant and assiduous; and the house of Mr Harrel
was eminent for its elegance and gaiety; but yet, undaunted by
danger, and confiding in his own powers, he determined to pursue the
project he had formed, not fearing by address and perseverance to
ensure its success.




CHAPTER ii

AN ARGUMENT.


Mr Monckton had, at this time, a party of company assembled at his
house for the purpose of spending the Christmas holidays. He waited
with anxiety the arrival of Cecilia, and flew to hand her from the
chaise before Mr Harrel could alight. He observed the melancholy of
her countenance, and was much pleased to find that her London
journey had so little power to charm her. He conducted her to the
breakfast parlour, where Lady Margaret and his friends expected her.