are gone, much to my mother's mortification, and to my
delight; and now, as I have written so much about myself; I shall
leave this letter open till I see Janet, that I may tell you something
about her, otherwise I know my letter will not be interesting to you.

"31st. My dear Tom, you must prepare yourself for painful
intelligence.

"Janet has disappeared. She left her father's house last night after
the family had retired, but no one knows where: she left a few lines
on her table, stating that they would hear from her soon. Poor Mr
Wilson was here to-day--he is half distracted--and the whole town is
full of the scandal. Mrs St. Felix told me this morning that she has
discovered that within the last week she has been seen walking on the
London Road with Lord ---. Is it possible?

"2nd May. It is all true--Mrs St. Felix has a letter from Mr
Sommerville, stating that Janet was brought up to town and married to
Lord --- two days ago. It appears, that from the time that I repulsed
his attentions, he fixed them upon Janet; that she encouraged him, and
used to meet him every night, as Mrs St. Felix was informed. Mr
Sommerville has seen his father, and fully exculpated himself; but the
Marquess declares, as his son is a minor, that the marriage shall not
be binding. How it will end Heaven only knows; but she is much to be
pitied. This will account for her not coming to me as usual. Now,
Tom, I do not suppose you will pay attention to me at present, but
from what I knew of Janet, and which her conduct has fully proved, she
was not worthy to be your wife, and could not have contributed to your
happiness. I pity you from my heart, as I know what you will feel;
but still I congratulate you, and eventually you will congratulate
yourself at your fortunate escape.

"I will say no more at present, except that I am, and ever will be,

"Your truly attached sister,

"VIRGINIA."

I had courage to finish the letter, and then it dropped from my hands.
I was bewildered, stupefied, maddened. As my sister said, I did indeed
feel. Was it possible? Janet, who had--mercy on me! I threw myself on
the bed, and there I remained till the next morning in a state most
pitiable.

It is only those who have been deceived in their first attachment who
can appreciate my agony of feeling. For the first few hours I hated the
whole world, and, had then the means been at han