~42~~Indeed
it is hardly possible to find a more conversational or attractive woman,
or one less free from the vulgarity which usually accompanies ladies of
her caste. With this fair I danced a waltz, and then danced off to my
friend Crony, who had been excused a display of agility on the score
of age, and from whom I anticipated some interesting anecdotes of the
surrounding stars. (See Plate.)
[Illustration: page042]
The Montagues, five sisters, all fine women, and celebrated as the stars
of Erin, shone forth on this occasion with no diminished ray of their
accustomed brilliancy; Mrs. Drummond, otherwise H--n Dr--y Ba--y,
Me--t--o, or Bulkly, the last being the only legal _cognomen_ of the
fair, led the way, followed by Maria Cross, otherwise Latouche, Matilda
Chatterton, Isabella Cummins, and Amelia Hamilton, all ladies of high
character in the court of Cytherea, whose amours, were I to attempt
them, would exceed in volumes, if not in interest, the chronicles of
their native isle. Among the most interesting of the fairy group was
the beautiful Louisa Rowley, since married to Lord L**c**les, and that
charming little rosebud, the captivating Josephine, who, although a mere
child, was introduced under the special protection of the celebrated Mr.
B***, who has since been completely duped by the little _intriguante_,
as also was hep second lover Lord p********? who succeeded in the lady's
favour afterwards; but from whom she fled to Lord H****t, since whose
death, an event which occurred in Paris, I hear she has reformed, and is
now following the example of an elder sister, by preparing herself for
the stage.
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