When I was left alone, and began to reflect on the various events of that day, it seemed a general scene of confusion; they had pass'd in such quick succession, that the recollection made me giddy.

The variety of thoughts which all these things suggested to my mind, would have engrossed my attention a long time, had not my little boy interrupted me; the bustle of the day had wearied him. I put him to bed, and that being done, I began to observe the furniture of my room.

The furniture was old and tattered, and every thing very dirty; but had once been handsome. I was surprized at the condition it was in, as I imagined the mistress of the house to be a woman of fortune, from the generosity she had shewn towards me; and from her age I expected such a degree of œconomy, as would prevent so much dirt and rags. I wondered, therefore, what could occasion this appearance, and flattered myself I might be of some use in doing my best to repair the destruction, which seemed less owing to the ravages of time than to want of care.

A servant, not much more cleanly than my chamber, came to ask me what I chose for supper: I told her any thing the family had; I begged I might give no additional trouble. ‘My mistress,’ said she, ‘thought you might be tired, and want to go to bed before their supper time, so ordered me to enquire.’

‘At what time do they sup then?’ I asked. ‘It is quite uncertain,’ answered the servant; ‘sometimes it is vastly late, but never before eleven.’

I had been used to late hours at Lady Markland's, so was not surprized: I thought I had got again into the house of a fine Lady; but, since that was the case, desired a piece of bread and butter, which would be a sufficient supper for me.