XXXI

Lady Susan

by Jane Austen

XXXI, LADY SUSAN by Jane Austen


LADY SUSAN TO MRS. JOHNSON


Upper Seymour Street.


My dear Friend,--That tormenting creature, Reginald, is here. My letter,
which was intended to keep him longer in the country, has hastened him to
town. Much as I wish him away, however, I cannot help being pleased with
such a proof of attachment. He is devoted to me, heart and soul. He will
carry this note himself, which is to serve as an introduction to you, with
whom he longs to be acquainted. Allow him to spend the evening with you,
that I may be in no danger of his returning here. I have told him that I am
not quite well, and must be alone; and should he call again there might be
confusion, for it is impossible to be sure of servants. Keep him,
therefore, I entreat you, in Edward Street. You will not find him a heavy
companion, and I allow you to flirt with him as much as you like. At the
same time, do not forget my real interest; say all that you can to convince
him that I shall be quite wretched if he remains here ; you know my
reasons--propriety, and so forth. I would urge them more myself, but that I
am impatient to be rid of him, as Mainwaring comes within half an hour.
Adieu !

S VERNON