Seeing A Coronation
A SAD mistake was once made at court by the beautiful and celebrated
Duchess of Hamilton. Shortly before the death of George II., and whilst
he was greatly indisposed, Miss Gunning, upon becoming Duchess of
Hamilton, was presented to his majesty. The king, who was particularly
pleased with the natural elegance and artlessness of her manner,
indulged in a long conversation with her grace. In the course of this
tete-a-te
e the duchess said, with great animation, I have seen
everything! There is only one thing in this world I wish to see, and I
do long so much to see that! The curiosity of the monarch was so
greatly excited to know what this wonderful thing could be, that he
eagerly asked her what it was. A coronation, replied the thoughtless
duchess; nor was she at all conscious of the mistake she had made, till
the king took her hand with a sigh, and with a melancholy expression
replied, I apprehend you have not long to wait; you will soon have
your wish. Her grace was overwhelmed with confusion.