This
billet, subscribed "Your well-wisher, and unknown humble servant,"
had the desired effect upon the careful matron, who, on the ball
day, feigned herself so extremely ill, that Miss could not with
any decency quit her mamma's apartment; and therefore sent her
apology to Emilia in the afternoon, immediately after the arrival
of Peregrine, who pretended to be very much afflicted with the
disappointment, while his heart throbbed with a transport of joy.
About ten o'clock the lovers set out for the Haymarket, he being
dressed in the habit of Pantaloon, and she in that of Columbine;
and they had scarce entered the house when the music struck up,
the curtain was withdrawn, and the whole scene displayed at once,
to the admiration of Emilia, whose expectation was infinitely
surpassed by this exhibition. Our gallant having conducted her
through all the different apartments, and described the economy of
the place, led her into the circle, and, in their turn, they danced
several minuets; then going to the sideboard, he prevailed upon
her to eat some sweetmeats and drink a glass of champagne.
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