Disguised Marquis at the Private Ball
Disguised Marquis at the Private Ball
The narrator consents to personate a French marquis for one night, that he may the more easily execute his revenge. At the appointed time he appears dressed to the best advantage, and in the borrowed title of marquis has the honour of opening the ball with the heiress, whose prodigious display of jewels attracts the eyes of the whole company. Among the spectators is Melinda, who can neither conceal her envy nor her astonishment at the narrator’s apparent triumph. Her curiosity is heightened by never having seen Miss Gripewell before, and Chatter is engaged at the other end of the room, so that she can obtain no satisfaction. The narrator observes her impatience, exults in her chagrin, and after his partner is seated passes her with a slight bow without stopping, thereby completing her mortification. She changes colour, bridles, assumes disdain, and furiously flutters her fan until it flies to pieces to the great entertainment of those nearby.
Failed Courtship of Miss Gripewell
Failed Courtship of Miss Gripewell
Tempted by the richness of Miss Gripewell’s fortune, the narrator attempts to practise upon her heart. He soon discovers, however, that it is too well fortified with pride and indifference to yield to any assault made in his own character. Nor will he preserve the borrowed title of marquis beyond the single night of the ball.
Banter’s Barber Prank on Melinda
Banter’s Barber Prank on Melinda
Banter engages his barber, a coxcomb freshly come from Paris whose absurd affectation and grimace will easily pass for the sprightly politesse of a travelled gentleman, by assuring him that Melinda has been captivated by his appearance and desires his acquaintance. The barber is fitted in a tawdry suit of Banter’s clothes and recommended to Chatter as a very pretty fellow just returned from his travels. He is introduced to Melinda at the ball, where he acts his part with such ridiculous extravagance that the mirth of the whole company is excited at his expense. His partner, mortified by the scene, retires before the country dances begin under pretence of sudden illness, and the barber follows her home, convinced that her indisposition is the effect of love and seizing the occasion to declare his passion.
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