There was not an aching heart in the
whole cavalcade, except that of the young lawyer, which was by turns
invaded with hot desires and chilling scruples. Though he was fond of
Dolly to distraction, his regard to worldly reputation, and his attention
to worldly interest, were continually raising up bars to a legal
gratification of his love. His pride was startled at the thought of
marrying the daughter of a poor country publican; and he moreover dreaded
the resentment of his uncle Crowe, should he take any step of this nature
without his concurrence. Many a wishful look did he cast at Dolly, the
tears standing in his eyes, and many a woful sigh did he utter.

Lady Greaves immediately perceived the situation of his heart, and, by
questioning Mrs. Cowslip, discovered a mutual passion between these
lovers. She consulted her dear knight on the subject, and he catechised
the lawyer, who pleaded guilty. The captain being sounded as to his
opinion, declared he would be steered in that, as well as every other
course of life, by Sir Launcelot and his lady, whom he verily revered as
being of an order superior to the ordinary race of mankind. This
favourable response being obtained from the sailor, our hero took an
opportunity on the road, one day after dinner, in presence of the whole
company, to accost the lawyer in these words: "My good friend Clarke, I
have your happiness very much at heart--your father was an honest man, to
whom my family had manifold obligations. I have had these many years a
personal regard for yourself, derived from your own integrity of heart
and goodness of disposition--I see, you are affected, and shall be brief
--Besides this regard, I am indebted to your friendship for the liberty--
what shall I say?--for the inestimable happiness I now enjoy, in
possessing the most excellent--But I understand that significant glance
of my Aurelia, I will not offend her delicacy--The truth is, my
obligation is very great, and it is time I should evince my gratitude--
If the stewardship of my estate is worth your acceptance, you shall have
it immediately, together with the house and farm of Cockerton in my
neighbourhood. I know you have a passion for Mrs. Dolly; and believe she
looks upon you with the eyes of tender prepossession--don't blush, Dolly
--Besides your agreeable person, which all the world must approve, you
can boast of virtue, fidelity, and friendship. Your attachment to Lady
Greaves neither she no