In a moment my neck and face were all over crimson.--I felt the colour rise;--it was not to be suppress'd.--I drew my handkerchief from my pocket;--held it to my face;--hemm'd;--call'd for wine and water;--which, when brought, I could scarcely swallow; spoke in a low voice to Miss Winter;--said she had a poor stomach, or something like it. Lord Darcey too was confus'd.--Why did I look up to him?--He was pale, instead of red.--I saw his lips move, but could not hear what he said for more than a minute; occasion'd by an uncommon noise which just then rush'd through my head:--at length sounds grew distinct, and I heard this sentence--_every_ word is inscribed where it can _never_ be erazed-- Upon my honour. Lord Allen, I have never made proposals to any woman; and _further_, it is a matter of doubt, whether I ever shall. By this time I had lost all my colour;--charming cool--and calm,--no perturbation remaining. Nothing disagreeable now hung on my mind, except a certain thoughtfulness, occasion'd by the recollection of my folly.-- Miss Winter's eyes sparkled, if it is possible for grey ones to sparkle, at the declaration Lord Darcey had just made; and, of a sudden, growing very fond of _me_, laid her hand on mine, speaking as it were aside,--Well, I was never _more_ surprized! I as _much_ believed him engaged to a _certain_ young Lady,--squeezing my thumb,--as I think I am living.--Nay, I would not have credited the contrary, had I not heard him declare off with my _own_ ears.--I see how it is; Sir James must chuse a wife for him.-- To all which I only answered, Lord Darcey, Madam, is certainly the best judge of his actions:--I make no doubt but Sir James will approve his Lordship's choice. After what I have related, common subjects ensued:--the cloth being removed, I withdrew to the Library, intending to sit with Mr. Watson half an hour, who was confined by a cold. He holds out his hand to take mine the moment he hears my footstep.--I look on him as an angel: his purity, his mildness, his resignation speak him one.-- Lord Darcey entered as I was about to join the company; however, I staid some minutes, that my quitting the room might not seem on _his_ account. I am glad you are come, my Lord, said Mr. Watson; sitting with such a poor infirm man has made Miss Warley thoughtful.--Upon my word, Sir, returned I, it was only the fear of increasing your head-ach that me silent.--I never was in higher spirits.--I could sing and dance this very moment. Well then, dear Miss Warley, cried his Lordship, let me fetch your _guitarre_. With all my heart, my Lord; I am _quite_ in tune.--Taking leave of Mr. Watson, I return'd to the company.--His Lordship soon followed. Again repeating his request, in which every person join'd, I sung and play'd several compositions.