ainst his
_protege_; and paid me many compliments upon my behaviour, which were
quite unnecessary. He told me that he had spoken to his pupil, who
had most positively denied his having any such intention, and stated
that he was merely amusing himself; and he had pledged himself not to
take the least notice of me for the future. `I am well aware,' said
he, `that what he has stated is not correct; he has not deceived me by
his assertions; and were it not that I feel confidence in you, Miss
Virginia,' continued he, `I would write to his father that he might be
immediately removed. I hardly need say, that should anything of this
kind take place, I should be most severely blamed: it is not the first
time that I have been compelled to interfere, for my pupil is of a
very susceptible disposition, and has fancied himself in love with at
least five young people since he has been under my charge. In this
instance,' continued he, making me a bow, `he has some extenuation to
offer. Will you oblige me by informing me if he adheres to his
promise? or do you wish that I should speak to your mother?'

"Mrs St. Felix replied that it would be unnecessary; indeed, that if
Lord --- left the house I should only be subject to fresh persecution.
Mr Sommerville, at her request, stayed to drink tea, and is
certainly a very pleasant, well-informed, amiable young man.

"23rd. I have received no molestation since the explanation with Mr
Sommerville, except from my mother, who accuses me of having affronted
Lord ---; and although I deny it, she asserts that he never could have
so changed his conduct towards both of us if I had not so done. I
have not seen Janet this week--I cannot imagine what has become of
her.

"24th. You may imagine my joy, my dear Tom: Mr Sommerville has
received a letter, stating that his lordship is to go down to his
father's seat in the country, as he will be of age in a month, and he
is to make acquaintance with the tenants;--there are to be great
rejoicings there upon his coming of age. I am sure no one can rejoice
more than I shall when he leaves, which is to be next Saturday. I am
also very glad to say that the Marquess has presented Mr Sommerville
with a valuable living, now that he gives up his tutorship. I really
think he will do justice to his profession, for I have seen more of
him lately, and esteem him very much.

"27th. They