"
He accompanied this proposal with a second bow, and Harley accepted
of it by another in return.
The conversation, as they walked, was brilliant on the side of his
companion. The playhouse, the opera, with every occurrence in high
life, he seemed perfectly master of; and talked of some reigning
beauties of quality in a manner the most feeling in the world.
Harley admired the happiness of his vivacity, and, opposite as it
was to the reserve of his own nature, began to be much pleased with
its effects.
Though I am not of opinion with some wise men, that the existence of
objects depends on idea, yet I am convinced that their appearance is
not a little influenced by it. The optics of some minds are in so
unlucky a perspective as to throw a certain shade on every picture
that is presented to them, while those of others (of which number
was Harley), like the mirrors of the ladies, have a wonderful effect
in bettering their complexions. Through such a medium perhaps he
was looking on his present companion.
When they had finished their walk, and were returning by the corner
of the Park, they observed a board hung out of a window signifying,
"An excellent ORDINARY on Saturdays and Sundays." It happened to be
Saturday, and the table was covered for the purpose.
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