s wife to leave Reading and come to London, and that
Susannah Temple was to come with them.

"On a visit?" inquired I.

"No, not on a visit. I have seen Cophagus, and he is determined to cut
the Quakers, and reside in London altogether."

"What! does he intend to return to the pomps and vanities of this wicked
world?"

"Yes, I believe so, and his wife will join him. She has no objection to
decorate her pretty person."

"I never thought that she had--but Susannah Temple--"

"When Susannah is away from her friends, when she finds that her sister
and brother-in-law no longer wear the dress, and when she is constantly
in your company, to all which please to add the effect I trust of my
serious admonitions, she will soon do as others do, or she is no woman.
This is all my plan, and leave it to me--only play your part by seeing
as much of her as you can."

"You need not fear that," replied I.

"Does your father know of your attachment?" inquired Mr Masterton.

"No, I passed her over without mentioning her name," replied I. "It is
too soon yet to talk to him about my marrying; in fact, the proposal
must, if possible, come from him. Could not you manage that?"

"Yes, I will if I can; but, as you say, wait awhile. Here is their
address--you must call to-morrow, if you can; and do you think you can
dine with me on Thursday?"

"Yes, if the general continues improving; if not, I will send you word."

The next day I complained of a head-ache, and said, that I would walk
out until dinner-time. I hastened to the address given me by Mr
Masterton, and found that Mr Cophagus and his wife were out, but
Susannah remained at home. After our first questions, I inquired of her
how she liked London.

"I am almost afraid to say, Japhet, at least to you; you would only
laugh at me."

"Not so, Susannah; I never laugh when I know people are sincere."

"It appears to me then to be a vanity fair."

"That there is more vanity in London than in any other city, I grant,"
replied I; "but recollect, that there are more people and more wealth.
I do not think that there is more in proportion than in other towns in
England, and if there is more vanity, Susannah, recollect also that
there is more industry, more talent, and I should hope a greater
proportion of good and honest people among its multitudes; there is
also, unfortunately, more misery and more crime."

"I believe you are right, Japhet. Are you aware that Mr Cophagus ha