GERALDINE FAUCONBERG. LETTER I. MISS LESMORE TO MRS. LUMLEY. Highgrove Park, My dear Augusta, LAST night, something being said concerning my brother's impending departure, Mr. Archer gave him a slight invitation to return at Christmas, when he means to have a large party in the house. Nothing seems determined, however; and I own, that his going away at this moment appears to me a very, very serious eyil. Geraldine professes to regret it more than we had reason to suppose she would: but, I fear, a little degree of self-interest may influence her feelings on this occasion. Ferdi nand has given her a few lessons to facilitate her in the practice of sketching views; and yesterday, as she was proceeding, with her drawing-book in her hand, to choose a spot favourable to their purpose, she said "This is giving you very useless trouble, I fear, Mr. Lesmore, for when you are gone, I shall forget all you have taught me.” "O no; if you continue practising, you know enough now to improve by yourself." “But I shall not have half the spirit about it! I wish you had given your instructions sooner, or would stay longer to render them of more avail." "Whatever your motive may be for forming such a wish, I cannot but be flattered by it. Yet, I think you have already had patience with me a wonderful time!" "There are many people," resumed she, who, though they do not get easily acquainted, become very good friends when the ice is once broken. I hope," added she, half smiling," that is beginning to be the case with us, Mr. Lesmore." "There is so much delicacy and gentleness |