"Yes Ma'am." replied I with as much indifference as I could
assume.

"Aye, and a fine one too I think--(feeling it, as by her
permission I seated myself by her) I dare say it is all very
smart--But I must own, for you know I always speak my mind, that
I think it was quite a needless piece of expence--Why could not
you have worn your old striped one? It is not my way to find
fault with People because they are poor, for I always think that
they are more to be despised and pitied than blamed for it,
especially if they cannot help it, but at the same time I must
say that in my opinion your old striped Gown would have been
quite fine enough for its Wearer--for to tell you the truth (I
always speak my mind) I am very much afraid that one half of the
people in the room will not know whether you have a Gown on or
not--But I suppose you intend to make your fortune to night--.
Well, the sooner the better; and I wish you success."

"Indeed Ma'am I have no such intention--"

"Who ever heard a young Lady own that she was a Fortune-hunter?"
Miss Greville laughed but I am sure Ellen felt for me.

"Was your Mother gone to bed before you left her?" said her
Ladyship.

"Dear Ma'am, said Ellen it is but nine o'clock."

"True Ellen, but Candles cost money, and Mrs Williams is too wise