These are little things;
but were I to run over each class of objects of curiosity or interest
this country affords, I would soon convince you that you were already
in a land of wonders and rare sights."
"But even here I am trammeled. Papa did not come out here to examine
the curiosities of the country, or to hunt out picturesque scenery,
Moorish antiquities, or Roman ruins, and I cannot go scampering over
the neighborhood with an escort of volunteers from the brigade or the
Light Dragoons. It is true that Mrs. Captain Howe, who is a great
_connoisseuse_ in nature and art, has promised to be my guide in
exploring the country as soon as she gets rid of her rheumatism. But
from the number of her flannel wrappers, I infer that there is no hope
of her soon extending her explorations beyond the walls of her room."
"You must indeed feel the want of a companion to free you from the
awkwardness of your situation; here with no company but those rude
comrades his majesty has sent out hither."
"My want is so urgent that were it not for my loyalty, I would now
exchange a crack regiment for a companionable woman."
"I am glad, then, to be able to tell you that a lady has arrived in
Elvas, who may be very useful in filling up this awkward gap in the
circle of your acquaintance!"
"A lady? An English lady? Who is she?"
"An English lady.
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