{role d'equipage = muster roll (French); here, Miss Rowley's list of
her autographs}

The next day, in passing Holberton-House, I observed the chariot of
a fashionable physician before the door; and at Miss Rowley's party
in the evening learned from Mr. T----- that Lady Holberton was quite
unwell. The following morning I called to inquire, and received for
answer that "her ladyship was very much indisposed." It was not
until a week later that I saw Lady Holberton herself, taking the air in
Hyde Park. She looked wretchedly--thin and pale. I inquired from the
English friend with whom I was riding, if there was any probability of
a change of ministry? He looked surprised; and then catching the
direction of my eye, he observed,

"You ask on Lady Holberton's account; but Sir A----- B----- tells me
her illness was caused by the loss of the Lumley Autograph."

This unexpected intelligence proved only too true. On returning to my
lodgings, I found a note from Lady Holberton, requesting to see me,
and, of course, immediately obeyed the summons.

"Lost!--lost!--lost! Mr. Howard!" said the lady, endeavoring to conceal
her emotion, as she gave me the details of her affliction.

"It must have been stolen--basely stolen--on the evening of my
party. Oh! why did I so foolishly exhibit it among so many people,
and collectors among them, too! Never again will I admit more than
one collector at a time into the room with my album!" she exclaimed
with energy.