The History of Sir Charles Grandison | Page 2

Selby.-- An early visit from Miss Jervois, who communicates with much pleasure the particulars of a late interview she had with her mother: relates a conversation that passed between her guardian, Mrs. O'Hara, and Captain Salmonet: describes the affectionate behaviour of Sir Charles to her, on introducing her to her mother; and his kind instructions concerning her deportment on the occasion.
LETTER XIV. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Sir Charles solicits his sister to fix the day for her marriage before he leaves England. Visit from Lord G----, the Earl, and Lady Gertrude. Miss Grandison unusually thoughtful all the time of dinner. The Earl of G---- and Lady Gertrude request a conference with Sir Charles after dinner. Purport of it. Miss Grandison's reluctance to so early a day as her brother names, but at length accedes to his powerful entreaties; though wholly unprepared, she says.
LETTER XV. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Serious conversation between Miss Byron and Miss Grandison concerning the approaching marriage. The latter expresses her indifference for Lord G----; compares his character with that of her brother; entreats Miss Byron to breakfast with her the next day, and to remain with her till the event takes place.
LETTER XVI. Miss Grandison to Miss Byron.-- Ludicrous description of three marriages given by Miss Grandison, with the anticipation of her own.
LETTER XVII. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Great preparations for Miss Grandison's marriage: her generous offer to Miss Byron of her share of her mother's jewels, who refuses to accept of them, and gives her opinion as to their disposal. Miss Grandison is pleased with the hint, and acts accordingly. Account of Dr. Bartlett's interesting conversation with Miss Byron on the subject of Sir Charles going to Italy, and his attachment to Miss Byron. The young lady's emotions: her alternate hopes and fears: she resolves on relinquishing Sir Charles in favour of Lady Clementina.
LETTER XVIII. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Debate concerning the place where the marriage ceremony is to be performed. Conversation between Miss Byron and Miss Grandison interrupted by Lady Gertrude. Miss Byron expresses much concern for Lord G----, from Miss Grandison's present conduct to him; but is inclined to hope that an alteration may be effected.
LETTER XIX. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Account of Sir Charles's return from Windsor: his joy on restoring the worthy family of the Mansfields from oppression: his interview with his friend Beauchamp, at Sir Harry's; and cheerful behaviour at his sister's wedding, though his own heart is torn with uncertainty. Farther proofs of his esteem for Miss Byron.
LETTER XX. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Sir Charles briefly lays before his sister the duties of a married life: some remarks on her behaviour. Lord W----'s generosity to his nieces o Lady G----'s marriage. Painful reflections on the departure of Sir Charles. Opinions of the proper age for the marrying of women.
LETTER XXI. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Conversation with Dr. Bartlett. Artless remarks of Miss Jervois, and her censures on the conduct of Lady G---- to her lord. Mr. Galliard proposes an alliance for Sir Charles. Contrast between Lady G---- and Lady L---- in disposing of their uncle's present. Miss Byron's perturbed state of mind: the cause of it. Her noble resolution in favour of Lady Clementina.
LETTER XXII. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Conference between Lord W---- and Sir Charles on the management of servants: their conduct frequently influenced by example. Remarks on the helpless state of single women. Plan proposed for erecting Protestant Nunneries in England, and places of refuge for penitent females.
LETTER XXIII. Lady G---- to Miss Byron.-- Invitation to dinner. Account of a matrimonial altercation, and of the arrival of Lady Olivia.
LETTER XXIV. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Encloses Lady G----'s letter, and describes her concern for Lord G----.
LETTER XXV. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Lady Olivia is introduced to Miss Byron. Some traits in that lady's character related by Dr. Bartlett. She declares her passion for Sir Charles to Lady L----. She endeavours to prevail on him to defer his voyage, and is indignant at meeting with a refusal. Miss Byron's exalted behaviour.
LETTER XXVI. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Conversation with Sir Charles regarding Lord and Lady G----. His anxiety for their happiness; but hopes much from Miss Byron's influence over her sister.
LETTER XXVII. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Sir Charles departs unexpectedly, from the kindest motives. The concern and solicitude of his friends. Miss Byron's mind much agitated. The eldest of Mrs. Oldham's sons presented with a pair of colours by Sir Charles.
LETTER XXVIII. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Account of Lady Olivia's behaviour. Her horrid attempt to stab Sir Charles. Miss Byron describes the state of her own mind, and resolves to return to Northamptonshire.
LETTER XXIX. Miss Byron to Miss Selby.-- Particulars of a very interesting conversation with Mrs.