Lord Orville Redeemed — Evelina, Or, the History of a Young Lady's Entrance into the World

September 16 Evelina tells Villars Lord Orville is still himself and her spirits revive. She credits his intemperance theory for the forged letter and visits Mrs. Beaumont on Clifton Hill trembling until only the hostess is present. Lady Louisa and Lord Merton arrive: she languishes on a sofa; he shuffles in with boots and whip, ignoring them until curiosity wins.

Orville enters the garden civil and open, delighted to see Evelina while she turns away, grave and distant, determined he shall not read weakness as romantic confusion. His gravity answers hers. When he offers the phaeton, refusal softens into acceptance; slow careful driving and Mrs. Selwyn's wit melt reserve she meant to hold for the letter alone.

She asks Villars whether resentment may end now that conduct proves the note could not be sober Orville. Strategic coldness worked, yet kindness without renewed provocation dissolves anger she vows she would never have dropped had he sustained the letter's tone.