ay, had, by
attention and kindness joined with firmness and good temper, acquired a
dominion over him. I had at his request removed to the hotel, and lived
with him altogether. His leg was rapidly arriving to a state of
convalescence, and he now talked of taking a house and setting up his
establishment in London. I had seen but little of Mr Masterton during
this time, as I had remained in-doors in attendance upon the general. I
had written once to Mr Cophagus, stating how I was occupied, but saying
nothing about our reconciliation. One morning, Mr Masterton called upon
us, and after a little conversation with the general, he told me that
he had persuaded Mr Cophagus and his 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 headache, 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 o