ction, which, if ever broken, I
was to see his then determination (of which he also acquainted me)
put in execution. In consequence of Lady Matilda's indisposition,
Madam, I have ventured to delay this notice till morning.--I need not
say with what concern I now give it, or mention to you, I believe,
what is forfeited. My Lord staid but a few hours yesterday, after the
unhappy circumstance on which I write, took place; nor did I see him
after, till he was in his carriage; he then sent for me to the
carriage door, and told me he should be back in two days time, and
added, 'Remember your duty.' That duty, I hope, Madam, you will not
require me to explain in more direct terms.--As soon as my Lord
returns, I have no doubt but he will ask me if it is fulfilled, and I
shall be under the greatest apprehension, should his commands not be
obeyed.

"If there is any thing wanting for the convenience of your and Lady
Matilda's departure, you have but to order it, and it is at your
service--I mean likewise any cash you may have occasion for. I should
presume to add my opinion where you might best take up your abode; but
with such advice as you will have from Mr. Sandford, mine would be but
assuming.

"I would also have waited upon you, Madam, and have delivered myself
the substance of this letter; but I am an old man, and the changes I
have been witness to in my Lord's house since I first lived in it,
has encreased my age many years; and I have not the strength to see
you upon this occasion. I loved my deceased Lady--I love my Lord--and
I love their child--nay, so I am sure does my Lord himself; but there
is no accounting for his resolutions, or for the alteration his
disposition has lately undergone.

"I beg pardon, Madam, for this long intrusion, and am, and ever will
be, (while you and my Lord's daughter are so) your afflicted humble
servant,

"ROBERT GIFFARD.

"Elmwood House,

"Sept. 12."

When this letter was brought to Miss Woodley, she knew what it contained
before she opened it, and therefore took it with an air of
resignation--yet though she guessed the momentous part of its contents,
she dreaded in what words it might be related; and having now no
essential good to expect, hope, that will never totally expire, clung at
this crisis to little circumstanc