I fancy my master has not slept much neither; for I heard him up, and
walking about his chamber, ever since break of day. To be sure, good
gentleman! he must have some concern, as well as I; for here he is going
to marry a poor foolish unworthy girl, brought up on the charity, as one
may say, (at least bounty,) of his worthy family! And this foolish girl
must be, to all intents and purposes, after twelve o'clock this day, as
much his wife, as if he were to marry a duchess!--And here he must stand
the shocks of common reflection! The great Mr. B---- has done finely! he
has married his poor servant wench! will some say. The ridicule and rude
jests of his equals, and companions too, he must stand: And the disdain
of his relations, and indignation of Lady Davers, his lofty sister! Dear
good gentleman! he will have enough to do, to be sure! O how shall I
merit all these things at his hand! I can only do the best I can; and
pray to God to reward him; and resolve to love him with a pure heart, and
serve him with a sincere obedience. I hope the dear gentleman will
continue to love me for this; for, alas! I have nothing else to offer!
But, as I can hardly expect so great a blessing, if I can be secure from
his contempt, I shall not be unfortunate; and must bear his indifference,
if his rich friends should inspire him with it, and proceed with doing my
duty with cheerfulness.
Pages:
541
542
543
544
545
546
547
548
549
550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558
559
560
561
562
563
564
565