The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 345: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

314 REYNOLDS’ WORKS which flattered the young officer with the idea of the violent passion you have conceived for him —” ‘Trust to me to play my part properly,” interjected Ar- mantine. ‘Of all men as a protector, I could best fancy an officer in the Guards.” “He will allow you fifty guineas a week,” rejoined Ma- dame Angelique, “and if within a twelvemonth you do not ruin him completely, it will be your own fault. My dear girl, the reputation of a young lady is never established until she has ruined three or four of her lovers. Look at your celebrated actresses— But no matter. Softly must be dying of impatience, and you must accompany me forth- with. Remember, my dear, bashful tenderness and modest joy, that is your cue.” The infamous woman thereupon conducted the pliant and willing French girl to the boudoir, and so well did Ar- mantine play her part that the Honourable Augustus Softly was completely ravished by his presumed conquest. Ma- dame Angelique took possession of the cheque unperceived by Armantine, who that same evening left the establish- ment, to take up her new abode in the splendidly furnished lodgings which her lover had lost no time in engaging for her reception. CORNIClIOO KS (E(0)