reply, before I had time to inquire into the cause of the agony and
shame which were mingled in Lady Greville's looks, she covered her
brow with her hands, and exclaimed with hysteric violence, 'No, never
more--never again. Alas! it is too late.'

"The queen, herself too deeply skilled in the sorrows of a wounded
heart, appeared warmly to compassionate the distress which had robbed
her favourite of all presence of mind; and rising evidently to divert
the attention of the circle, whose malignant smiles were instantly
repressed, she invited us to follow her into the adjoining gallery,
at that time occupied by Sir Peter Lely for the completion of his
exquisite series of portraits of the beauties of Charles's court. In
their own idle comments and petty jealousies arising from the
resemblances before them, Lady Greville was forgotten.

"While I was deliberating the following morning, in what manner I
could with delicacy interrogate Theresa on the extraordinary scene I
had witnessed, I was surprised by her sudden but firm declaration
that she could not, _would not_ longer remain in the royal suite, and
she concluded by imploring me on her knees, as I valued her peace of
mind, her health, her salvation, to remove her instantly to Silsea.
'I have obtained her Majesty's private sanction,' said she, shewing
me a billet in the hand-writing of the queen, 'and it only remains
for you publicly to give in our resignation.' The letter was written
in French, and contained the following words: 'Go, my beloved
Theresa--dearly as I prize your society, I feel that our mutual
happiness can only be ensured by the retirement you so prudently
meditate. May it be a consolation to you to reflect that you must
ever be remembered with respect and gratitude by,
'Your affectionate friend.'