ABSTRACT
[But a connection]37 more memorable originated about this time, between Mary and a person of her own sex, for whom she contracted a friendship so [fervent,]38 as for years to have constituted the ruling passion of her mind. The name of this person was Frances Blood; she was two years older than Mary. Her residence was at that time at Newington Butts, a a village near the / southern extremity of the metropolis; and the [original instrument for bringing these two friends acquainted,]39 was Mrs Clare, wife of the gentleman already mentioned, who was on a footing of considerable intimacy with both parties. The acquaintance of Fanny, like that of Mr Clare, contributed to ripen the immature talents of Mary.
