brass effigies, etc.; it was
a fine work, beautifully executed for the late king, George IV. I
wish it had been executed for me. I did get A---- to walk in the
square with me once, but she likes it even less than I do; my
intellectual conversation is no equivalent for the shop-windows of
Regent Street and the counters of the bazaar, and she has gone out
with my aunt every day since, "leaving the square to solitude and
me;" so I take my book with me (I can read walking at my quickest
pace), and like to do so.

Tuesday evening I played Belvidera. I was quite nervous at acting
it again after so long a period. After the play my father and I
went to Lady Dacre's and had a pleasant party enough. Mrs. Norton
was there, more entertaining and blinding beautiful than ever.
Henry desired me to give her his "desperate love," to which she
replied by sending the poor youth her "deadly scorn." Lord
Melbourne desired to be introduced to me, and I think if he likes,
he shall be the decrepit old nobleman you are so afraid of me
marrying. I was charmed with his face, voice, and manner; we dine
with him next Wednesday week, and I will write you word if the
impression deepens.

My dear H----, only imagine my dismay; my father told me that after
Easter I should have to play Lady Macbeth! It is no use thinking
about it, for that only frightens me more; but, looking at it as
calmly and reasonably as possible, surely it is too great an
undertaking for so young a person as myself. Perhaps I may play it
better than most girls of my age would; what will that amount to?
That towering, tremendous woman, what a trial of courage and
composure for me! If you were a good friend, now, you would come up
to town "for that occasion only," and sustain me with your
presence.

The beautiful Miss Bayley is at length married to William Ashley
[the present Earl of Shaftesbury], and everybody is rejoicing with
them or for them; it is pleasant to catch glimpses of fresh shade
and flowers as one goes along the dusty highroad of life.

I must now tell you what I am going to do, that you may know where
to find me: to-morrow, I go to a private morning concert with my
mother; in the evening, I act Beatrice, and after the play all
sorts of people are coming here to supper. On Monday,