never disguise his
uneasiness at the sight of Lord Frederick, nor could the latter help
discerning the suspicion of the guardian, and consequently each was
embarrassed in the presence of the other. Miss Milner observed, but
observed with indifference, the sensations of both--there was but one
passion which then held a place in her bosom, and that was vanity;
vanity defined into all the species of pride, vain-glory,
self-approbation--an inordinate desire of admiration, and an immoderate
enjoyment of the art of pleasing, for her own individual happiness, and
not for the happiness of others. Still had she a heart inclined, and
oftentimes affected by tendencies less unworthy; but those approaches to
what was estimable, were in their first impulse too frequently met and
intercepted by some darling folly.

Miss Woodley (who could easily discover a virtue, although of the most
diminutive kind, and scarce through the magnifying glass of calumny
could ever perceive a fault) was Miss Milner's inseparable companion at
home, and her zealous advocate with Dorriforth, whenever, during her
absence, she became the subject of discourse. He listened with hope to
the praises of her friend, but saw with despair how little they were
merited. Sometimes he struggled to subdue his anger, but oftener strove
to suppress tears of pity for her hapless state.

By this time all her acquaintance had given Lord Frederick to her as a
lover; the servants whispered it, and some of the public prints had even
fixed the day of marriage;--but as no explanation had taken place on his
part, Dorriforth's uneasiness was increased, and he seriously told his
ward, he thought it would be indispensably prudent in her to entreat
Lord Frederick to discontinue his visits. She smiled with ridicule at
the caution, but finding it repeated, and in a manner that indicated
authority, she promised not only to make, but to enforce the request.
The next time he came she did so, assuring him it was by her guardian's
desire; "Who, from motives of delicacy, had permitted her to solicit as
a favour, what he could himself make a demand." Lord Frederick reddened
with anger--he loved Miss Milner; but he doubted whether, from the
frequent proofs he had experienced of his own inconstancy, he should
continue to love--and this interference of her guardian threatened an
explanation or a dismission, before he became thoroughly acquainted with
his own heart.--Alarmed, confounded, and provok