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I returned an evasive answer. The truth was, that for some time past my appearance, owing to the state of my finances, had been rather shabby; and I did not wish to expose a fashionable young man like Francis Ardry, who lived in a fashionable neighbourhood, to the imputation of having a shabby acquaintance. I was aware that Francis Ardry was an excellent fellow; but, on that very account, I felt, under existing circumstances, a delicacy in visiting him. It is very possible that he had an inkling of how matters stood, as he presently began to talk of my affairs and prospects. I told him of my late ill success with the booksellers, and inveighed against their blindness to their own interest in refusing to publish my translations. The last that I addressed myself to, said I, told me not to trouble him again unless I could bring him a decent novel or a tale. Well, said Frank, and why did you not carry him a decent novel or a tale? Because I have neither, said I; and to write them is, I believe, above my capacity. At present I feel divested of all energy - heartless, and almost hopeless. I see how it is, said Francis Ardry, you have overworked yourself, and, worst of all, to no purpose. Take my advice; cast all care aside, and only think of diverting yourself for a month at least. Divert myself! said I; and where am I to find the means? Be that care on my shoulders, said Francis Ardry. Listen to me - my uncles have been so delighted with the favourable accounts which they have lately received from T- of my progress in oratory, that, in the warmth of their hearts, they made me a present yesterday of two hundred pounds. This is more money than I want, at least for the present; do me the favour to take half of it as a loan - hear me, said he, observing that I was about to interrupt him; I have a plan in my head - one of the prettiest in the world. The sister of my charmer is just arrived from France; she cannot speak a word of English; and, as Annette and myself are much engaged in our own matters, we cannot pay her the attention which we should wish, and which she deserves, for she is a truly fascinating creature, although somewhat differing from my charmer, having blue eyes and flaxen hair; whilst, Annette, on the contrary - But I hope you will shortly see Annette. Now, my plan is this - Take the money, dress yourself fashionably, and conduct Annettes sister to Bagnigge Wells. And what should we do at Bagnigge Wells? Do! said Francis Ardry. Dance! But, said I, I scarcely know anything of dancing. Then heres an excellent opportunity of improving yourself. Like most Frenchwomen, she dances divinely; however, if you object to Bagnigge Wells and dancing, go to Brighton, and remain there a month or two, at the end of which time you can return with your mind refreshed and invigorated, and materials, perhaps, for a tale or novel. I never heard a more foolish, plan, said I, or one less likely to terminate profitably or satisfactorily. I thank you, however, for your offer, which is, I daresay, well meant. If I am to escape from my cares and troubles, and find my mind refreshed and invigorated, I must adopt other means than conducting a French demoiselle to Brighton or Bagnigge Wells, defraying the expense by borrowing from a friend. |
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