Chapter 2

GIRLHOOD (1703-1710)

Lady Mary makes the acquaintance of Edward Wortley Montagu--Montagu attracted by her looks and her literary gifts. Assists her in her studies--Montagu a friend of the leading men of letters of the day--Addison, Steele, Congreve, Vanbrugh, and others--The second volume of the _Tatler_ dedicated to him by Steele--Montagu a staunch Whig--His paternal interest for Lady Mary does not endure--He becomes a suitor for her hand--Lady Mary's devotion and respect for him--Her flirtations--She and Montagu correspond through the medium of his sister, Anne--Lady Mary's mordant humour--Her delight in retailing society scandal--The death of Anne Wortley--Lady Mary and Montagu henceforth communicate direct--Her first letter to him