It has been already observed, that Lord Kingsborough was completely versed in all the arts of seduction, intrigue and gallantry, and knew to a moment when to sieze any advantage he had gained. He was, therefore, determined to lose no more time in completing the present design, than was absolutely necessary; and though he was as abandoned and devoted to his pleasures as any man living, he always endeavoured to gain the affections and regard of those very innocents, whom he afterwards was as fully determined to seduce and destroy. And as he was now convinced he had fully engaged the whole soul of Miss Faulkner, he resolved to carry her off, before she had time to reflect on the nature or consequence of her engagements in his favour; and for that purpose had ordered a chariot and six of his best horses, with proper attendants, to wait near Mrs Tabby's the evening after the ball, that if he could persuade her to elope with him, it should be done instantly. Thus prepared he set out for Mrs Tabby's, where he found Miss Faulkner at tea with that worthy Lady; and, upon his Lordship's entering the room, our heroine was once more seized with her palpitations, and apprehensions of she knew not what. However after some general conversation, Mrs Tabby retired, and his Lordship having declared to Miss Faulkner, in the most passionate terms, that he was the most miserable man in the world, that he had not known a moment's happiness since first he beheld her lovely face, and that there was nothing in his power to make her happy which he would not comply with, provided he might flatter himself, that he had the smallest degree of her esteem; she innocently, but truly, assured his Lordship, that she entertained the highest respect and esteem for him, but that she could not hear his addresses without the permission of her uncle Paragraph; and added, that she was well assured his Lordship was then on the point of being married to a lady of birth and fortune, suitable to his rank and quality, and begged he would not endeavour to disturb her peace of mind, and humble condition, with which she was perfectly contented.

            This his Lordship justly construed into the warmest declaration in his favour; and after protesting, in the most solemn manner, that he never would marry the lady she spoke of, that, if she would condescend to go with him into the country, he would settle an ample fortune upon her for her life, and that, if he ever did marry, she should be his choice. He represented to her, that the consequence of her refusal would be his marrying the lady she mentioned, and that, if she remained with her uncle, she would in course be tied to some rude, low bred mechanic, who would not only despise and abuse her lovely person, but keep her in a servile poor way, where she would languish out her life, without tasting those luxuriant pleasures and elegancies, to which her wit, beauty and accomplishments entitled her. Thus pressed by love on one side, by splendour, importunity and deceit on the other, Miss Faulkner was prevailed on, and did consent to elope with his Lordship into the country; but had no notion of setting off that night, which his Lordship was firmly resolved on, lest the should more seriously reflect on the business she was going to embark in, and repent.

            Lord Kingsborough, however, stepped out of the room, and giving Mrs Tabby some money, desired she would buy some few necessaries which might be wanting to Miss Faulkner on the road; at the same time he issued fresh orders to his servants, to hold themselves in readiness. Those myrmidons were so well versed and experienced in these exploits, that they immediately understood what his Lordship was now about. He always travelled with a numerous and splendid equipage, equally well mounted and armed; nor had he a servant in his train, that would not hazard his life in support or obedience of his Lordship's commands, as they perfectly adored him. For such really was the enchanting address and behaviour of this noble Lord to all ranks and degrees of people, that, notwithstanding his notorious debauches and excesses with regard to women, he was universally respected and beloved, wherever he appeared; and those, who the moment before were abusing him, and condemning his profligate life, no sooner beheld him, than they were struck with the general admiration entertained of him by both sexes, and joined in the universal applause that was paid to his many other noble qualities, and his acts of princely generosity. On Lord Kingsborough's return to Miss Faulkner, he told her, that he had sent Mrs Tabby to buy her a riding dress, which he had that day seen, and was sure would exactly fit her; and Mrs Tabby just then entering the room with such a dress, his Lordship, requested Miss Faulkner to try it on; and while she was dressing, withdrew. Everything being now ready for his purpose, he communicated his design to his beloved, and prevailed on her that instant to get into his chariot, which was waiting within a few steps of Mrs Tabby's door. Thus our heroine was not permitted even a negative voice; for whilst his Lordship pressed her to immediate flight, Mrs Tabby alarmed her with the apprehensions of a discovery, and being forced from the arms of her adorer.

            Into the chariot they both got, and the word of command was given, to drive to his Lordship's country house, which is about a hundred miles from the metropolis. And whilst they are driving as fast as six fine horses can carry them, we shall return to Mr and Mrs Paragraph, from whom we have been absent some time.

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