t be in my power to procure them
redress, either in the one case or in the other, gave me the above
particulars; and upon inquiry, finding every thing to be as represented,
I made myself acquainted with the widow lady and her sons: and it was
impossible to see them at their own house, and not respect the daughters
for their amiable qualities.

I desired them, when I was last down, to put into my hands their titles,
deeds, and papers; which they have done; and they have been laid before
counsel, who give a very hopeful account of them.

Being fully authorized by my lord, I took leave of him over-night, and
set out early in the morning, directly for Mansfield-house. I arrived
there soon after their breakfast was over, and was received by Lady
Mansfield, her sons, (who happened to be all at home,) and her two
daughters, with politeness.

After some general conversation, I took Lady Mansfield aside; and making
an apology for my freedom, asked her, If Miss Mansfield were, to her
knowledge, engaged in her affections?

She answered, she was sure she was not: Ah, sir, said she, a man of your
observation must know, that the daughters of a decayed family of some
note in the world, do not easily get husbands. Men of great fortunes
look higher: men of small must look out for wives to enlarge them; and
men of genteel businesses are afraid of young women better born than
portioned. Every body knows not that my girls can bend to their
condition; and they must be contented to live single all their lives; and
so they will choose to do, rather than not marry creditably, and with
some prospect.

I then opened my mind fully to her. She was agreeably surprised: but
who, sir, said she, would expect such a proposal from the next heir to
Lord W----?

I made known to her how much in earnest I was in this proposal, as well
for my lord's sake, as for the young lady's. I will take care, madam,
said I, that Miss Mansfield, if she will consent to make Lord W----
happy, shall have very handsome settlements, and such an allowance for
pin-money, as shall enable her to gratify every moderate, every
reasonable, wish of her heart.

Was it possible, she asked, for such an affair to be brought about?
Would my lord--There she stopt.

I said, I would be answerable for him: and desired her to break the
matter to her daughter directly.

I left Lady Mansfield, and joined the brothers, who were with their two
sisters; and soon after Miss Mansfield was