ABSTRACT
When they arrived at Clapham, Emmeline found Mrs. Ashwood was not yet returned. Fitz-Edwarda entreated her to sing to him; and either was, or pretended to be, in raptures at her improvement since they had met in the summer. The title of Colonel, added to his military air and handsome figure, seemed to gain at once her favourable opinion; and her countenance losing the unpleasing expression of ill-temper, immediately put on its best smile, and an affectation of softness and complacency with which she frequently adorned it. She seemed to consider the handsome young soldier as a conquest worthy all her ambition; and finding he was the most intimate friend of Delamere, had no apprehension that his admiration would be diverted by the youth and attractions of Emmeline. Fitz-Edward presently understood her character; and with admirable adroitness acted the part of a man afraid of being too much charmed.
