We are dressing for dinner: this is a ceremony always practiced here. I wear my Great-Coat.
We are just done tea; and are to have the same Gentlemen to dance again to-night.
I begin to want very much to see my Polly. Ah! what would I not give to obtain that [happiness]. It appears a year since the morning I parted from you, and how long, very long will it be before I clasp you to my breast. I am deprived even the consolation of hearing from you. Adieu, my love. I must return to the Company.
We danced last night, and every one appeared to be happy. I can answer for your Lucy: her partner was Mr. James Thomson--one of the best dancers I most ever saw. Early this morning came one of the Miss Ballendine's--truly Amiable, I believe, but not handsome. But how prefarable is good sense and affability to Beauty: more pleasing a thousand times!
Cousin Molly and Hannah T. have rode to Mr. Ballendine's to bring the other Sister. She is to be married soon to a Mr. Murfey.
The old man being sick that plays the Fidle, we have diverted ourselves playing _grind the bottle_ and _hide the thimble_. Our time passed away agreeably enough.
Miss Nancy Ballendine would not come yesterday. Miss Eliza is still here; and a sweet Girl she is. I wish you could see her: I am sure my Polly would be pleased with her. We have been taking a walk together in the Garden, and talk't of my Polly. She told me Mr. Macrae intended paying his addresses to you on his way up. I long to hear if he has.
We have the addition of two more Gentlemen to-night. A Doctor Harrington--a handsome man, I think--and an elderly Gentleman, Captain Grigg; the most laughable creature I ever saw. They tell me I shall be highly diverted at the minuet he dances; and we intend to make him dance one to-night.
I don't think I ever laugh't so much in my life as I did last night at Captain Grigg's minuet. I wish you could see him. It is really the most ludicrous thing I ever saw; and what makes it more so is, he thinks he dances a most delightful one.
To-day we go to Mr. Ballendine's. Adieu, my Love.
I am delighted with this Family. They take delight in promoting each other's happiness, and they do it effectually; for I believe they are perfectly happy. Mrs. Ballendine is handsome--more so than either of her Daughters. Mr. Newton came this evening as we were at tea.