University of Virginia Library

October 17.—

We took leave of lady Grimston this morning, or rather of her house; for her ladyship, my dear mother, and all the good folks that were our guests at Grimston-hall, are to dine with us today at Arnold-abbey. I desired I might be permited to go home without any parade, and in as private a manner as possible; for you know how I hate a bustle. Mr. Arnold very obligingly indulged me in this request, and conducted my sweet Mrs. Vere and me home in his own coach, at eight of the clock this morning. I found every thing in exact order at Arnold-abbey. The house is very spacious and convenient, though very old-

fashioned. Some of the rooms however are newly fitted up, perfectly neat and handsome. The servants are orderly and well-behaved, and every thing seems to be exactly well regulated. You may be sure I have taken my own Patty home with me; I intend to constitute her house-keeper, and give her an additional salary for her additional trouble. Mr. Arnold had nobody in that capacity before, as his houshold had not been settled since the acquisition of his fortune, and he reserved the choosing of so material domestic to me; but as I do not love to multiply servants, and know that Patty is very capable of the place, I shall take no other.