Clump had posted up to London with this intimation on the wings of love,
and being covered with clay from the heels to the eyes upwards, he
appeared in such an unfavourable light at Dr. Kawdle's door, that the
footman refused him admittance. Nevertheless, he pushed him aside, and
fought his way upstairs into the dining-room, where the company was not a
little astonished at such an apparition.

The fellow himself was no less amazed at seeing Aurelia and his own
sweetheart Mrs. Dolly Cowslip. He forthwith fell upon his knees, and in
silence held out the letter, which was taken by the doctor, and presented
to his wife, according to the direction. She did not fail to communicate
the contents, which were far from being unwelcome to the individuals who
composed this little society. Mr. Clump was honoured with the
approbation of his young lady, who commended him for his zeal and
expedition; bestowed upon him a handsome gratuity in the meantime, and
desired to see him again when he should be properly refreshed after the
fatigue he had undergone.

Mr. Thomas Clarke being consulted on this occasion, gave it as his
opinion, that Miss Darnel should, without delay, choose another guardian
for the few months that remained of her minority. The opinion was
confirmed by the advice of some eminent lawyers, to whom immediate
recourse was had; and Dr. Kawdle being the person pitched upon for this
office, the necessary forms were executed with all possible despatch.

The first use the doctor made of his guardianship was to sign a power,
constituting Mr. Ralph Mattocks his attorney pro tempore for managing the
estate of Miss Aurelia Darnel; and this was forwarded to the steward by
the hands of Clump, who set out with it for the seat of Darnel Hill,