Affliction, XII

Jane now began (as Arnold wish’d) to arrange Her little wardrobe, for th’ approaching change. From humble life she soon was to withdraw To Rollingate,—there learn the “genteel law,” ’Midst scenes of gaiety; (but yet aloof;)— To learn in private, ’neath the mansion roof, The necessary etiquette—for she The future hope of Arnold was to be. Tears flow’d, and oft, as day and night flew past; More often still at every eve-repast: The cottage-home serenity had fled; And George look’d forward with an earthly dread To that sad day; his very heart recoil’d— To think of parting with his only child! But Hollybrand, though passionately fond, Had giv’n his word, and hence fulfill’d his bond.