I would have wished that Mr Clinker had kept
out of this scrape; but as the nymph's happiness is at stake, and
she has already some fits in the way of despondence, I, in order
to prevent any tragical catastrophe, have given him leave to play
the fool, in imitation of his betters; and I suppose we shall in
time have a whole litter of his progeny at Brambleton-hall. The
fellow is stout and lusty, very sober and conscientious; and the
wench seems to be as great an enthusiast in love as in religion.
I wish you would think of employing him some other way, that the
parish may not be overstocked -- you know he has been bred a
farrier, consequently belongs to the faculty; and as he is very
docile, I make no doubt but, with your good instruction, he may
be, in a little time, qualified to act as a Welch apothecary.
Tabby, who never did a favour with a good grace, has consented,
with great reluctance, to this match. Perhaps it hurts her pride,
as she now considers Clinker in the light of a relation; but, I
believe, her objections are of a more selfish nature. She
declares she cannot think of retaining the wife of Matthew Loyd
in the character of a servant; and she foresees, that on such an
occasion the woman will expect some gratification for her past
services.
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