She instantly rang the bell, and in came my brother, meeting me at the
door.

Return, return, Miss--no going up yet.

I went in again, and throwing myself upon the window-seat, wept
bitterly.

Shall I give you the particulars of a ridiculously-spiteful conversation
that passed between my brother and me, in the time that he (with
Betty) was in office to keep me in the parlour while my closet was
searching!--But I think I will not. It can answer no good end.

I desired several times, while he staid, to have leave to retire to my
apartment; but was denied. The search, I suppose, was not over.

Bella was one of those employed in it. They could not have a more
diligent searcher. How happy it was they were disappointed!

But when my sister could not find the cunning creature's papers, I was
to stand another visit from Mr. Solmes--preceded now by my aunt Hervey,
solely against her will, I could see that; accompanied by my uncle
Antony, in order to keep her steady, I suppose.

But being a little heavy (for it is now past two in the morning) I
will lie down in my clothes, to indulge the kind summons, if it will be
indulged.

THREE O'CLOCK, WEDNESDAY MORNING.

I could not sleep--Only dozed away one half-hour.

My aunt Hervey accosted me thus:--O my dear child, what troubles do you
give to your parents, and to every body!--I wonder at you!

I am sorry for it, Madam.

Sorry for it, child!--Why then so very obstinate?--Come, sit down, my
dear. I will sit next to you; taking my hand.

My uncle placed Mr. Solmes on the other side of me: himself over-against
me, almost close to me. Was I not finely beset, my dear?

Your brother, child, said my aunt, is too passionate--his zeal for your
welfare pushes him on a little too vehemently.

Very true, said my uncle: but no more of this. We would now be glad to
see if milder means will do with you--though, indeed, they were tried
before.

I asked my aunt, If it were necessary, that the gentleman should be
present?

There is a reason that he should, said my aunt, as you will hear by-and
by.--But I must tell you, first, that, thinking you was a little too
angrily treated by your brother, your mother desired me to try what
gentler means would do upon a spirit so generous as we used to think
yours.

Nothing can be done, Madam, I must presume to say, if this gentleman's
address be the end.

She looked upon my uncle, who bit his lip; and looked upon Mr. Solmes,
who rub