my more than suspicions, I, however, took care to sound Mr.
Spencer (a very poor soul), and his manner was so embarrassed as to
leave no doubt of the matter; but in asking him what he had heard of
the brothers, I had the satisfaction of learning that, in all human
probability, the elder is dead: of this Mr. Spencer seems convinced.
I also assured myself that neither Spencer nor the young man had the
remotest connection with our Captain Smith, nor any idea of litigation.
This is very satisfactory, you will allow. And now, I hope you will
approve of what I have done. I find that young Morton, or Spencer, as
he is called, is desperately enamoured of Camilla; he seems a meek,
well-conditioned, amiable young man; writes poetry;--in short, rather
weak than otherwise. I have demanded a year's delay, to allow mutual
trial and reflection. This gives us the channel for constant information
which you advise me to establish, and I shall have the opportunity to
learn if the impostor makes any communication to them, or if there be
any news of the brother. If by any trick or chicanery (for I will never
believe that there was a marriage) a lawsuit that might be critical
or hazardous can be cooked up, I can, I am sure, make such terms with
Sidney, through his love for my daughter, as would effectively and
permanently secure me from all further trouble and machinations in
regard to my property. And if, during the year, we convince ourselves
that, after all, there is not a leg of law for any claimant to stand on,
I may be guided by other circumstances how far I shall finally accept
or reject the suit. That must depend on any other views we may then form
for Camilla; and I shall not allow a hint of such an engagement to get
abroad. At the worst, as Mr. Spencer's heir, it is not so very bad a
match, seeing that they dispense with all marriage portion, &c.--a proof
how easily they can be managed. I have not let Mr. Spencer see that
I have discovered his secret--I can do that or not, according to
circumstances hereafter; neither have I said anything of my discovery
to Mrs. B., or Camilla. At present, 'Least said soonest mended.' I
heard from Arthur to-day. He is on his road home, and we hasten to town,
sooner than we expected, to meet him. He complains still of his health.
We shall all go down to Beaufort Court. I write this at night, the
pretended uncle and sham nephew having just gone. But though we start
to-morrow, you will get this a day o