Mr. and Mrs. Seymour, and Mrs. Melbourne, returned to Mr. Clifford's seat, where they had promised to pass a week or two on their way home. It was the time of the assizes at –, and Mrs. Seymour heard with great satisfaction that Mr. Clifford's family were going to a ball at that town the following evening.

Mr. Chartres, on the first intelligence he received of the ball, instantly asked Julia to dance: ‘I own,’ added he, playing all the time with his fingers, and looking very foolish, for he felt that his request was a bold one; ‘I own I shall appear but aukward, having never been at any ball, except my dancing-master's; but I am determined to improve myself in dancing, which I think a very pleasant device, and what reflects honour on the inventor.’ Some young ladies, as secure as Julia of having their choice of many partners, would have refused Mr. Chartres without much remorse; but it was not in her nature to exert power in giving pain when it could be avoided; and though she disliked her shackles, she determined to wear them with cheerfulness. Frederick Seymour was secretly rejoiced that Julia was engaged to Chartres, being conscious that, had she been provided with a more agreeable partner, it would have given him some very unpleasant sensations.

Charlotte mentioned to Mrs. Seymour, at dinner, that she would probably meet her acquaintance, Mr. F—, at the ball, ‘Miss Tomkins’, added she, ‘who is on a visit at Lord —'s seat, told me that Mr. F— was expected this evening; and what will he do, Julia, when he finds you are engaged? – Mr. Chartres, I advise you not to be too happy tomorrow, for I have a strong suspicion that you will be robbed of your partner.’ ‘I am conscious, Madam,’ said Chartres, laying down his knife and fork with great solemnity, ‘I am very conscious of my unworthiness of Miss Julia Clifford, and you know, Madam,’ continued he, turning to Julia ‘I offered this morning to give up the honour of your hand to Mr. Frederick Seymour, for a dance or two, if he should happen to ask it.’