introduced to her acquaintance. In the meantime, she was fallen into the
hands of a notable lady, who had already disposed of her to a lieutenant
of foot, a distant relation of her ladyship's, though Miss as yet knew
nothing of the affair; and lastly that if I proposed to dance with her,
I must give him leave to represent me as a knight, or foreign count at
least. I was ravished at this piece of information, and consented for
one night, to personate a French marquis, that I might the easier fulfil
my revenge.

Having made the appointment with Chatter I went to Banter's lodgings,
as I had by this time conceived a great opinion of his penetration
and knowledge; and, after I had enjoined secrecy, told him every
circumstance of my disgrace with Melinda, and imparted the plan I
had projected to mortify that proud coquette, desiring his advice in
proving, and assistance in executing the scheme. Nothing could be more
agreeable to his misanthropical temper than an account of her behaviour
and my resentment: he applauded my resolution, and proposed that I
should not only provide myself with a proper partner, but also procure
such a one for Miss Goosetrap, as should infallibly entail upon her
the ridicule of all her acquaintance. For this purpose he mentioned his
barber who he said, was an exceeding coxcomb lately come from Paris,
whose absurd affectation and grimace, would easily pass upon her for the
sprightly politesse of a gentleman improved by travel. I hugged him for
this hint; and he assured me it would be no difficult matter to make him
believe, that Melinda, having seen him by accident, was captivated by
his appearance, and begged for his acquaintance. He actually engaged him
on this pretence, and painted his good fortune in such colours that the
poor shaver was quite beside himself with joy. He was immediately
fitted with a tawdry suit of clothes belonging to Banter, and by him
recommended to Chatter as a very pretty fellow, just returned from his
travels. Master Billy, who acted as a gentleman usher to a great many of
the fair sex in and about town, undertook at once to bespeak Melinda in
his behalf; and everything happened according to my wish.

At the time appointed I appeared dressed to the best advantage; and, in
the character of a Marquis, had the honour of opening the ball with
the rich heiress, who attracted the eyes of the whole company by the
prodigious number of jewels with which she was adorned. Among othe