ery friendly terms, as well
as with his family. Many other ladies were willing to take charge of me,
but a chaperon was only required for the theatre, and concerts, and for
balls in the public assembly rooms; at private balls the lady of the
house was thought sufficient. Still, although I was sure to know
everybody in the room, or nearly so, I liked to have some one with whom
to enter and to sit beside. Few ladies kept carriages, but went in sedan
chairs, of which there were stands in the principal streets. Ladies were
generally attended by a man-servant, but I went alone, as our household
consisted of two maid-servants only. My mother knew, however, that the
Highlanders who carried me could be trusted. I was fond of dancing, and
never without partners, and often came home in bright daylight. The
dances were reels, country dances, and sometimes Sir Roger de Coverley.

[At this period, although busily engaged in studying painting at
Nasmyth's academy, practising the piano five hours a day, and
pursuing her more serious studies zealously, my mother went a good
deal into society, for Edinburgh was a gay, sociable place, and many
people who recollect her at that time, and some who were her dancing
partners, have told me she was much admired, and a great favourite.
They said she had a graceful figure, below the middle size, a small
head, well set on her shoulders, a beautiful complexion, bright,
intelligent eyes, and a profusion of soft brown hair. Besides the
various occupations I have mentioned, she made all her own dresses,
even for balls. These, however, unlike the elaborate productions of
our day, were simply of fine India muslin, with a little Flanders
lace. She says of her life in Edinburgh:--]

* * * * *

Girls had perfect liberty at that time in Edinburgh; we walked together
in Princes Street, the fashionable promenade, and were joined by our
dancing partners. We occasionally gave little supper parties, and
presented these young men to our parents as they came in. At these
meetings we played at games, danced reels, or had a little music--never
cards. After supper there were toasts, sentiments, and songs. There were
always one or two hot dishes, and a variety of sweet things and fruit.
Though I was much more at ease in society now, I was always terribly put
out when asked for a toast or a sentiment. Like other girls, I did not
dislike a litt