William Harrison Ainsworth

The Miser's Daughter

1842. Routledge & Sons, 1906.

Carriages, coaches and chairs were setting down their occupants at the entrance to the gardens, as Mr. Cripps and his companion drew near. Never had Mrs. Nettleship seen a gayer thing - the dresses she thought magnificent...The main walk was completely thronged, and presented the appearance of the Mall at high tide, while all the boxes and alcoves were filled with persons discussing bowls of punch, plates of ham, chickens, salads, and other good things. The band in the orchestra was excellent, and the lovely airs and symphonies added to the excitement and spirit of the scene. Mr. Cripps created a great sensation. Many persons thought they had seen him before, but no-one could tell who he was...

What they had seen before was his finery: Cripps has taken advantage of his master's absence to dress up in Mr. Villiers's most magnificent suit of clothes for a visit to Marylebone Gardens. His intention is to persuade Mrs. Nettleship, a wealthy widow, of his desirability as a husband; leading her to a secluded spot he is about to propose when his master appears. The valet begs him not to spoil his chances; Villiers good-naturedly agrees, but adds, '"Get you gone instantly: if I find you in the gardens in ten minutes from this time, you shall have the caning you merit."'