XXXII. Mrs. Johnson to Lady Susan

by Jane Austen

　　Edward Street.My dear Creature,--I am in agonies, and know not what to do. Mr. DeCourcy arrived just when he should not. Mrs. Mainwaring had that instantentered the house, and forced herself into her guardian's presence, thoughI did not know a syllable of it till afterwards, for I was out when bothshe and Reginald came, or I should have sent him away at all events; butshe was shut up with Mr. Johnson, while he waited in the drawing-room forme. She arrived yesterday in pursuit of her husband, but perhaps you knowthis already from himself. She came to this house to entreat my husband'sinterference, and before I could be aware of it, everything that you couldwish to be concealed was known to him, and unluckily she had wormed out ofMainwaring's servant that he had visited you every day since your being intown, and had just watched him to your door herself! What could I do! Factsare such horrid things! All is by this time known to De Courcy, who is nowalone with Mr. Johnson. Do not accuse me; indeed, it was impossible toprevent it. Mr. Johnson has for some time suspected De Courcy of intendingto marry you, and would speak with him alone as soon as he knew him to bein the house. That detestable Mrs. Mainwaring, who, for your comfort, hasfretted herself thinner and uglier than ever, is still here, and they havebeen all closeted together. What can be done? At any rate, I hope he willplague his wife more than ever. With anxious wishes,Yours faithfully,ALICIA.