As Mrs.
Middleton was at this time but little known at court, Grammont
found some difficulty in obtaining an introduction to her as
promptly as he desired; but feeling anxious to make her
acquaintance, and being no laggard in love, he without hesitation
applied to her porter for admittance, and took one of her lovers
into his confidence. This latter gallant rejoiced in the name of
Jones, and subsequently became Earl of Ranelagh. In the fulness
of his heart towards one who experienced a fellow feeling, he
resolved to aid Grammont in gaining the lady's favours. This
generosity being prompted by the fact that the chevalier would
rid him of a rival whom he feared, and at the same time relieve
him of an expense he could ill afford, the lady having certain
notions of magnificence which her husband's income was unable to
sustain.
Mrs. Middleton received the chevalier with good grace; but he
found her more ready to receive the presents he offered, than to
grant the privileges he required. Miss Kirk, on the other hand,
was not only flattered by his attentions, but was willing to use
every means in her power to preserve a continuance of his
friendship; Therefore out of gratitude for graces received from
one of the ladies, and in expectation of favours desired from the
other, Grammont made them the handsomest presents. Perfumed
gloves, pocket looking-glasses, apricot paste, came every week
from Paris for their benefit; whilst more substantial offerings
in the shape of jewellery, diamonds, and guineas were procured
for them in London, all of which they made no hesitation to
accept.
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