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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***
+[Transcriber's note: The spelling inconsistencies of the original have
+been retained in this etext.]
+
+
+
+THE
+
+_FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS_:
+
+BEING THE
+
+GENUINE HISTORY
+
+OF
+
+_Colonel_ M----RS, _and his Sister,_
+_Madam_ DU P----Y, _the Issue of
+the Hon_. CH----ES M----RS, _Son of the
+late Duke of_ R---- L----D.
+
+CONTAINING
+
+Many wonderful ACCIDENTS that befel them in their TRAVELS, and
+interspersed with the CHARACTERS and ADVENTURES of SEVERAL PERSONS of
+_Condition_, in the most polite Courts of _Europe_.
+
+_The Whole calculated for the Entertainment and Improvement of the Youth
+of both Sexes_.
+
+
+_LONDON_:
+
+M,DCC,XLIV.
+
+
+
+THE
+
+PREFACE.
+
+_The many Fictions which have been lately imposed upon the World, under
+the specious Titles of_ Secret Histories, Memoirs, &c. &c. _have given
+but too much room to question the Veracity of every Thing that has the
+least Tendency that way: We therefore think it highly necessary to
+assure the Reader, that he will find nothing in the following Sheets,
+but what has been collected from_ Original Letters, Private Memorandums,
+_and the_ Accounts _we have been favoured with from the Mouths of
+Persons too deeply concerned in many of the_ chief Transactions _not to
+be perfectly acquainted with the Truth, and of too much Honour and
+Integrity to put any false Colours upon it_.
+
+_The Adventures are not so long passed as to be wholly forgotten by
+many_ Living Witnesses, _nor yet so recent as to give any Reason to
+suspect us of Flattery in the Relation given of them, the Motive of
+their Publication being only to_ encourage Virtue _in both Sexes, by
+showing the Amiableness of it in_ real Characters. _And if it be true
+(as certainly it is) that_ Example has more Efficacy than_ Precept, _we
+may be bold to say there are few fairer, or more worthy Imitation.--The
+Sons and Daughters of the greatest Families may give additional Lustre
+to their Nobility, by forming themselves by the Model here presented to
+them; and those of lower Extraction, attain Qualities to attone for what
+they want in Birth:--So that we flatter ourselves this Undertaking will
+not fail of receiving the Approbation of all who wish well to a
+Reformation of Manners, and more especially those who have Youth under
+their Care.--As for such who may take it up merely as an Amusement, it
+is possible they will find something, which, by interesting their
+Affections, may make them better without designing to be so.--Either way
+will fully recompense the Pains taken in the compiling by_
+
+_The_ EDITORS.
+
+THE CONTENTS.
+
+CHAP. I.
+
+_Contains the Manner in which a Gentleman found two Children: His
+Benevolence towards them, and what kind of Affection he bore to them as
+they grew up; with the Departure of one of them to the Army_.
+
+CHAP. II.
+
+_Relates the Offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the Manner of her
+receiving them_.
+
+CHAP. III.
+
+_Dorilaus continues his Importunities, with some unexpected Consequences
+that attended them_.
+
+CHAP. IV.
+
+_Louisa becomes acquainted with a Lady of Quality, Part of whose
+Adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her_.
+
+CHAP. V.
+
+_Horatio's Reception by the Officers of the Army: His Behaviour in the
+Battle: His being taken Prisoner by the French: His Treatment among
+them, and many other Particulars_.
+
+CHAP. VI.
+
+_Describes the Masquerade at the Dutchess of Maine's: The Characters and
+Intrigues of several Persons of Quality who were there: The odd
+Behaviour of a Lady in regard to Horatio; and Charlotta's
+Sentiments upon it_.
+
+CHAP. VII.
+
+_An Explanation of the foregoing Adventure, with a Continuation of the
+Intrigues of some French Ladies, and the Policy of Mademoiselle Coigney
+in regard of her Brother_.
+
+CHAP. VIII.
+
+_The parting of Horatio and Mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains_.
+
+CHAP. IX.
+
+_A second Separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+Occurrences_.
+
+CHAP X.
+
+_The Reasons that induced Horatio to leave France: with the Chevalier
+St. George's Behaviour on knowing his Resolution. He receives an
+unexpected Favour from the Baron de Palfoy_.
+
+CHAP XI.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds Means to see Mademoiselle Charlotta,
+and afterwards pursues his Journey to Poland_.
+
+CHAP. XII.
+
+_Continuation of the Adventures of Louisa: Her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some Accidents that there
+befel them_.
+
+CHAP. XIII.
+
+_Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+Behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable Passion for her:
+Her Sentiments and Way of acting on this Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XIV.
+
+_The base Designs of the Count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy Change
+in Louisa's Way of Life: The generous Behaviour of Monsieur du Plessis
+on that Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XV.
+
+_Louisa is in Danger of being ravished by the Count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by Monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+Particulars_.
+
+CHAP. XVI
+
+_The Innkeeper's Scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: Her
+Behaviour on the Discovery of the Count's Falshood. Louisa changes her
+Resolution, and goes to Bolognia._
+
+CHAP. XVII.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Warsaw; sees the Coronation of Stanislaus and his
+Queen: His Reception from the King of Sweden: His Promotion: Follows
+that Prince in all his Conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The
+Story of Count Patkull and Madame de Eusilden._
+
+CHAP. XVIII
+
+_King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the Troubles In Poland:
+Charles XII. gives Laws to the Empire: A Courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives Letters, which give him great Surprize._
+
+CHAP. XIX.
+
+_The King of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with an
+Instance of Russian Brutality, drives the Czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken Prisoner
+by the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where he suffers the
+extremest Miseries._
+
+CHAP. XX.
+
+_The Treachery of a Russian Lady to her Friend: Her Passion for Horatio:
+The Method he took to avoid making any Return, and some other
+entertaining Occurrences._
+
+CHAP. XXI.
+
+_The Prisoners Expectations raised: A terrible Disappointment: Some of
+the chief carried to Prince Menzikoff's Palace: Their Usage there:
+Horatio set at Liberty, and the Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XXII.
+
+_What befel Louisa in the Monastery: The Stratagem she put in Practice
+to get out of it: Her Travels cross Italy, and Arrival at Paris_.
+
+CHAP. XXIII.
+
+_Shews by what Means Louisa came to the Knowledge of her Parents, with
+other Occurrences_.
+
+CHAP. XXIV.
+
+_The History of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other Circumstances very
+important to Louisa_.
+
+CHAP. XXV.
+
+_Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: His Reception from Dorilaus and
+Louisa: The Marriage agreed upon_.
+
+CHAP. XXVI.
+
+_The Catastrophe of the Whole_.
+
+
+
+THE FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS.
+
+
+
+CHAP. I.
+
+_Contains the manner in which a gentleman found children: his
+benevolence towards them, and what kind of affection he bore to them as
+they grew up. With the departure of one of them to the army_.
+
+It was in the ever memorable year 1688, that a gentleman, whose real
+name we think proper to conceal under that of Dorilaus, returned from
+visiting most of the polite courts of Europe, in which he had passed
+some time divided between pleasure and improvement. The important
+question if the throne were vacated or not, by the sudden departure of
+the unfortunate king James, was then upon the tapis; on which, to avoid
+interesting himself on either side, he forbore coming to London, and
+crossed the country to a fine feat he had about some forty miles
+distant, where he resolved to stay as privately as he could, till the
+great decision should be made, and the public affairs settled in such a
+manner as not to lay him under a necessity of declaring his sentiments
+upon them.
+
+He was young and gay, loved magnificence and the pomp of courts, and was
+far from being insensible of those joys which the conversation of the
+fair sex affords; but had never so much enslaved his reason to any one
+pleasure, as not to be able to refrain it. Hunting and reading were very
+favourite amusements with him, so that the solitude he now was in was
+not at all disagreeable or tedious to him, tho' he continued in it
+some months.
+
+A little time before his departure an accident happened, which gave him
+an opportunity of exercising the benevolence of his disposition; and,
+tho' it then seemed trivial to him, proved of the utmost consequence to
+his future life, as well as furnished matter for the following pages.
+
+As he was walking pretty early one morning in his garden, very intent on
+a book he had in his hand, his meditations were interrupted by an
+unusual cry, which seemed at some distance; but as he approached a
+little arbour, where he was sometimes accustomed to sit, he heard more
+plain and distinct, and on his entrance was soon convinced whence it
+proceeded.
+
+Just at the foot of a large tree, the extensive boughs of which greatly
+contributed to form the arbour, was placed a basket closely covered on
+the one side, and partly open on the other to let in the air. Tho' the
+sounds which still continued to issue from it left Dorilaus no room to
+doubt what it contained; he stooped down to look, and saw two beautiful
+babes neatly dressed in swadling cloaths: between them and the pillow
+they were laid upon was pinned a paper, which he hastily taking off,
+found in it these words.
+
+
+_To the generous_ DORISLAUS:
+
+'Irresistible destiny abandons these helpless infants
+to your care.--They are twins, begot
+by the same father, and born of the same mother,
+and of a blood not unworthy the protection
+they stand in need of; which if you vouchsafe to
+afford, they will have no cause to regret the misfortune
+of their birth, or accuse the authors of
+their being.--Why they seek it of you in particular,
+you may possibly be hereafter made sensible.--In
+the mean time content yourself with
+knowing they are already baptized by the names
+of Horatio and Louisa.'
+
+
+The astonishment he was in at so unexpected a present being made him,
+may more easily be imagined than expressed; but he had then no time to
+form any conjectures by whom or by what means it was left there: the
+children wanted immediate succour, and he hesitated not a moment whether
+it would become him to bestow it: he took the basket up himself, and
+running as fast as he could with it into the house, called his
+maid-servants about him, and commanded them to give these little
+strangers what assistance was in their power, while a man was sent among
+the tenants in search of nurses proper to attend them. To what person
+soever, said he, I am indebted for this confidence, it must not be
+abused.--Besides, whatever stands in need of protection, merits
+protection from those who have the power to give it.
+
+This was his way of thinking, and in pursuance of these generous
+sentiments he always acted. The report of what happened in his house
+being soon spread thro' the country, there were not wanting several who
+came to offer their service to the children, out of which he selected
+two of whom he heard the best character, and were most likely to be
+faithful to the trust reposed in them, giving as great a charge, and as
+handsome an allowance with them, as could have been expected from a
+father. Indeed he doubtless had passed for being so in the opinion of
+every body, had he arrived sooner in the kingdom; but the shortness of
+the time not permitting any such suggestion, he was looked upon as a
+prodigy of charity and goodness.
+
+Having in this handsome manner disposed of his new guests, he began to
+examine all his servants, thinking it impossible they should be brought
+there without the privity of some one of them; but all his endeavours
+could get him no satisfaction in this point. He read the letter over and
+over, yet still his curiosity was as far to seek as ever.--The hand he
+was entirely unacquainted with, but thought there was something in the
+style that showed it wrote by no mean person: the hint contained in it,
+that there was some latent reason for addressing him in particular on
+this account, was very puzzling to him: he could not conceive why he,
+any more than any other gentleman of the county, should have an interest
+in the welfare of these children: he had no near relations, and those
+distant ones who claimed an almost forgotten kindred were not in a
+condition to abandon their progeny.--The thing appeared strange to him;
+but all his endeavours to give him any farther light into it being
+unsuccessful; he began to imagine the parents of the children had been
+compelled by necessity to expose them, and had had only wrote in this
+mysterious manner to engage a better reception: he also accounted in his
+mind for their being left with him, as, he being a batchelor, and having
+a large estate, it might naturally be supposed there would be fewer
+impediments to their being taken care of, than either where a wife was
+in the case, or a narrow fortune obliged the owner to preserve a greater
+oeconomy in expences.
+
+Being at last convinced within himself that he had now explained this
+seeming riddle, he took no farther trouble about whose, or what these
+children were, but resolved to take care of them during their infancy,
+and afterwards to put them into such a way as he should find their
+genius's rendered them most fit for, in order to provide for themselves.
+
+On his leaving the county, he ordered his housekeeper to furnish every
+thing needful for them as often as they wanted it, and to take care they
+were well used by the women with whom he had placed them; and delivered
+these commands not in a cursory or negligent manner, but in such terms
+as terrified any failure of obedience in this point would highly incur
+his displeasure.
+
+Nothing material happening during their infancy, I shall pass over those
+years in silence, only saying that as often as Dorilaus went down to his
+estate (which was generally two or three times a year) he always sent
+for them, and expressed a very great satisfaction in finding in their
+looks the charge he had given concerning them so well executed: but when
+they arrived at an age capable of entertaining him with their innocent
+prattle, what before was charity, improved into affection; and he began
+to regard them with a tenderness little inferior to paternal; but which
+still increased with their increase of years.
+
+Having given them the first rudiments of education in the best schools
+those parts afforded, he placed Louisa with a gentlewoman, who
+deservedly had the reputation of being an excellent governess of youth,
+and brought Horatio in his own chariot up to London, where he put him to
+Westminster School, under the care of doctor Busby, and agreed for his
+board in a family that lived near it, and had several other young
+gentlemen on the same terms.
+
+What more could have been expected from the best of fathers! what more
+could children, born to the highest fortunes, have enjoyed! nor was
+their happiness like to be fleeting: Dorilaus was a man steady in his
+resolutions, had always declared an aversion to marriage, and by
+rejecting every overture made him on that score, had made his friends
+cease any farther importunities; he had besides (as has already been
+observed) no near relations, so that it was the opinion of most people
+that he would make the young Horatio heir to the greatest part of his
+estate, and give Louisa a portion answerable to her way of bringing up.
+What he intended for them, however, is uncertain, he never having
+declared his sentiments so far concerning them; and the strange
+revolutions happening afterwards in both their fortunes, preventing him
+from acting as it is possible he might design.
+
+The education he allowed them indeed gave very good grounds for the
+above-mentioned conjecture.--Louisa being taught all the accomplishments
+that became a maid of quality to be mistress of; and Horatio having gone
+thro' all the learning of the school, was taken home to his own
+house, from whence he was to go to Oxford, in order to finish his
+studies in the character of a gentleman-commoner.
+
+But when every thing was preparing for this purpose, he came one morning
+into the chamber of his patron, and throwing himself on his knees--
+Think me not, sir, said he, too presuming in the request I am about to
+make you.--I know all that I am is yours.--That I am the creature of
+your bounty, and that, without being a father, you have done more for me
+than many of those, who are so, do for their most favourite sons.--I
+know also that you are the best judge of what is fit for me, and have
+not the least apprehensions that you will not always continue the same
+goodness to me, provided I continue, as I have hitherto done, the
+ambition of meriting it.--Yet, sir, pardon me if I now discover a desire
+with which I long have laboured, of doing something of myself which may
+repair the obscurity of my birth, and prove to the world that heaven has
+endued this foundling with a courage and resolution capable of
+undertaking the greatest actions.
+
+In speaking these last words a fire seemed to sparkle from his eyes,
+which sufficiently denoted the vehemence of his inward agitations.
+Dorilaus was extremely surprized, but after a little pause, what is it
+you request of me? said that noble gentleman, (at the same time raising
+him from the posture he was in) or by what means than such as I have
+already taken, can I oblige you to think that, in being my foundling,
+fortune dealt not too severely with you?
+
+Ah! sir, mistake me not, I beseech you, replied the young Horatio, or
+think me wanting in my gratitude either to heaven or you.--But, sir, it
+is to your generous care in cultivating the talents I received from
+nature, that I owe this emulation, this ardor for doing something that
+might give me a name, which is the only thing your bounty cannot
+bestow.--My genius inclines me to the army.--Of all the accomplishments
+you have caused me to be instructed in, geography, fortification, and
+fencing, have been my darling studies.--Of what use, sir, will they be
+to me in an idle life? permit me then the opportunity of showing the
+expense you have been at has not been thrown away.--I know they will say
+I am too young to bear a commission, but if I had the means of going a
+volunteer, I cannot help thinking but I should soon give proofs the
+extreme desire I have to serve my country that way would well attone for
+my want of years.
+
+The more he spoke, the more the astonishment of his patron increased: he
+admired the greatness of his spirit, but was troubled it led him to a
+desire of running into so dangerous a way of life.--He represented to
+him all the hardships of a soldier, the little regard that was sometimes
+paid to merit, and gave him several instances of gentlemen who had
+passed their youth in the service, and behaved with extreme bravery, yet
+had no other reward than their fears, and a consciousness of having done
+more than was their duty: in war, said he, the superior officers carry
+away all the glory as well as profits of the victory; whereas in civil
+employments it is quite otherwise: in physic, in law, in divinity, or in
+the state, your merits will be immediately conspicuous to those who have
+the power to reward you; and if you are desirous of acquiring a name, by
+which I suppose you mean to become the head of a family, any of these
+afford you a much greater prospect of success, and it lies much more in
+my power of assisting your promotion.
+
+To these he added many other arguments, but they were not of the least
+weight with the impatient Horatio. He was obstinate in his entreaties,
+which he even with tears enforced, and Dorilaus, considering so strong a
+propensity as something supernatural, at last consented.--Never was joy
+more sincere and fervent than what this grant occasioned, and he told
+his benefactor that he doubted not but that hereafter he should hear
+such an account of his behaviour, as would make him not repent his
+having complied with his request.
+
+The preparations for his going to Oxford were now converted into others
+of a different nature.--Several of our troops were already sent to
+Flanders, and others about to embark, in order to open the campaign; so
+that there was but a small space between the time of Horatio's asking
+leave to go, and that of his departure, which Dorilaus resolved should
+be in a manner befitting a youth whom he had bred up as his own. He
+provided him a handsome field-equipage, rich cloaths, horses, and a
+servant to attend him; and while these things were getting ready, had
+masters to perfect him in riding; and those other exercises proper for
+the vocation he was now entering into, all which he performed with so
+good a grace, that not only Dorilaus himself, who might be suspected to
+look on him with partial eyes, but all who saw him were
+perfectly charmed.
+
+He was more than ordinarily tall for his years, admirably well
+proportioned, and had something of a grave fierceness in his air and
+deportment, that tho' he was not yet sixteen, he might very well have
+passed for twenty: he was also extremely fair, had regular features, and
+eyes the most penetrating, mixed with a certain sweetness; so that it
+was difficult to say whether he seemed most formed for love or war.
+
+Dorilaus thinking it highly proper he should take his leave of Louisa,
+sent for her from the boarding-school, that she might pass the short
+time he had to stay with her brother at his house, not without some
+hopes that the great tenderness there was between them might put Horatio
+out of his resolution of going to the army, who being grown now
+extremely dear to him, he could not think of parting with, tho' he had
+yielded to it, without a great deal of reluctance.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that when she first heard the motive which had
+occasioned her being sent for, her gentle breast was filled with the
+most terrible alarms for her dear brother's danger; but the little
+regard he seemed to have of it, and the high ideas he had of future
+greatness, soon brought her to think as he did; and instead of
+dissuading him from prosecuting his design, she rather encouraged him in
+it: and in this gave the first testimony of a greatness of soul, no less
+to be admired than the courage and laudable ambition which actuated that
+of her brother.
+
+Dorilaus beheld with an infinity of satisfaction the success of his
+endeavours, in favour of these amiable twins, and said within himself,
+how great a pity would it have been, if capacities such as theirs had
+been denied the means of improvement!
+
+After the departure of Horatio, he kept Louisa some time with him, under
+pretence of showing her the town, which before she had never seen; but
+in reality to alleviate that melancholy which parting from her brother
+had caused in him. He could not have taken a more effectual way; for
+there was such an engaging and sweet cheerfulness in her conversation,
+added to many personal perfections, that it was scarce possible to think
+of any thing else while she was present. She had also an excellent
+voice, and played well on the bass viol and harpsicord, so that it is
+hard to say whether he found most satisfaction in hearing her or
+discoursing with her.
+
+But how dangerous is it to depend on one's own strength, against the
+force of such united charms! Dorilaus, who, in the midst of a thousand
+temptations, had maintained the entire liberty of his heart, and tho'
+never insensible of beauty, had never been enslaved by it, was now by
+charms he least suspected, and at an age when he believed himself proof
+against all the attacks of love, subdued without knowing that he was
+so.--The tender passion stole into his soul by imperceptible degrees,
+and under the shape of friendship and paternal affection, met with no
+opposition from his reason, till it became too violent to be restrained;
+then showed itself in the whole power of restless wishes, fears, hopes,
+and impatiences, which he had often heard others complain of, but not
+till now experienced in himself: all that he before had felt of love was
+languid, at best aimed only at enjoyment, and in the gratification of
+that desire was extinguished; but the passion he was possessed of for
+Louisa was of a different nature, and accompanied with a respect which
+would not suffer him to entertain a thought in prejudice of her
+innocence.
+
+Many reasons, besides his natural aversion to marriage, concurred to
+hinder him from making her his wife; and as there were yet more to deter
+him from being the instrument of her dishonour, the situation of his
+mind was very perplexing.--He blushed within himself at the inclinations
+he had for a girl whom he had always behaved to as a child of his own,
+and who looked upon him as a father: not only the disparity of their
+years made him consider the passion he was possessed of as ridiculous,
+there was one circumstance, which, if at any time a thought of marrying
+her entered into his head, immediately extirpated it, which was, that
+there was a possibility of her being born not only of the meanest, but
+the vilest parents, who, on hearing her establishment, might appear and
+claim the right they had in her; and lo, said he, I shall ally myself
+to, perhaps, a numerous family of vagabonds; at least, whether it be so
+or not, the manner in which these children were exposed, being publicly
+known, may furnish a pretence for any wretch to boast a kindred.
+
+He was therefore determined to suppress a passion, which, as he had too
+much honour to seek the gratification of by one way, his prudence and
+character in the world would not allow him to think of by the other: and
+as absence seemed to him the best remedy, he sent her down into the
+country again with a precipitation, which made her (wholly ignorant of
+the real motive) fear she had done something to offend him. At parting,
+she entreated him to let her know if he had been dissatisfied with any
+thing in her behaviour.--Wherefore do you ask? said he, with some
+emotion, which the poor innocent still mistook for displeasure; because,
+answered she, dropping some tears at the same time, that you banish me
+from your presence. Why would you be glad to continue with me always?
+again demanded he. Yes indeed, said she; and if you loved me as well as
+you do my brother, you would never part with me; for I saw with what
+regret you let him go.
+
+This tender simplicity added such fewel to the fire with which Dorilaus
+was enflamed, that it almost consumed his resolution: he walked about
+the room some time without being able to speak, much less to quiet the
+agitation he was in. At last, Louisa, said he, I was only concerned your
+brother made choice of an avocation so full of dangers;--but I never
+intended to keep him at home with me:--he should have gone to Oxford to
+finish his studies; and the reason I send you again to the
+boarding-school is that you may perfect yourself in such things as you
+may not yet be mistress of:--as for any apprehensions of my being
+offended with you, I would have you banish them entirely, for I assure
+you, I can find nothing in you but what both merits and receives my
+approbation.
+
+She seemed extremely comforted with these words; and the coach being at
+the door, went into it with her accustomed chearfulness, leaving him in
+a state which none but those who have experienced the severe struggles
+between a violent inclination and a firm resolution to oppose it, can
+possibly conceive.
+
+
+
+CHAP. II.
+
+_Relates the offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the manner of her
+receiving them_.
+
+Louisa was no sooner gone, than he wished her with him again, and was a
+thousand times about to send and have her brought back; but was as often
+prevented by the apprehensions of her discovering the motive.--He was
+now convinced that love does not always stand in need of being indulged
+to enforce its votaries to be guilty of extravagancies.
+
+--He had banished the object of his affections from his presence; he had
+painted all the inconveniences of pursuing his desires in the worst
+colours they would bear; yet all was insufficient!--Louisa was absent in
+reality, but her image was ever present to him.--Whatever company he
+engaged himself in, whatever amusement he endeavoured to entertain
+himself with, he could think only of her.
+
+--The Town without her seemed a desart, and every thing in it rather
+seemed irksome than agreeable; for several months did he endure this
+cruel conflict; but love and nature at last got the victory, and all
+those considerations which had occasioned the opposition subsided: he
+found it impossible to recover any tranquility of mind while he
+continued in this dilemma, and therefore yielded to the strongest side.
+All the arguments he had used with himself in the beginning of his
+passion seemed now weak and trifling: the difference of age, which he
+had thought so formidable an objection, appeared none in the light with
+which he at present considered it: he was now but in his fortieth year,
+and the temperance he had always observed had hindered any decay either
+in his looks or constitution.--What censures the world might pass on
+his marrying one of her age and obscure birth, he thought were of little
+weight when balanced with his internal peace.--Thus was he enabled to
+answer to himself all that could be offered against making her his wife;
+and having thus settled every thing, as he imagined, to the satisfaction
+of his passion, became no less resolute in following the dictates of it
+than he had been in combating it while there was a possibility of
+doing so.
+
+To this end he went down to his country seat, and as soon as he arrived
+sent to let Louisa know he would have her come and pass some time with
+him. She readily obeyed the summons, and found by his manner of
+receiving her that she was no less dear to him than her brother. As she
+had always considered him as a father, tho' she knew all her claim in
+him was compassion, she was far from suspecting the motive which made
+him treat her with so much tenderness; but he suffered her not long to
+remain in this happy ignorance. As he was walking with her one day in
+the garden, he purposely led her on that side where he had found Horatio
+and herself in the manner already related; and as they came towards the
+arbour, It was here, said he, that heaven put into my power the
+opportunity of affording my protection to two persons whom I think will
+not be ungrateful for what I have done.--I hope, Louisa, continued he,
+you will not at least deceive my good opinion of you; but as you have
+always found in me a real friend, you will testify the sense you have of
+my good wishes, by readily following my advice in any material point.
+
+I should be else unworthy, sir, answered she, of the life you have
+preserved; and I flatter myself with being guilty of nothing which
+should give you cause to call in question either my gratitude or duty.
+
+I insist but on the former, resumed he; nor can pretend to any claim to
+the latter;--look on me therefore only as your friend, and let me know
+your sentiments plainly and sincerely on what I think proper to ask you.
+This she having assured him she would do, he pursued his discourse in
+these or the like terms:
+
+You are now, said he, arrived at an age when persons of your sex
+ordinarily begin to think of marriage.--I need not ask you if you have
+ever received any addresses for that purpose; the manner in which you
+have lived convinces me you are yet a stranger to them; but I would know
+of you whether an overture of that kind, in favour of a man of honour,
+and who can abundantly endow you with the goods of fortune, would be
+disagreeable to you.
+
+Alas! sir, replied she, blushing, you commanded me to answer with
+sincerity, but how can I resolve a question which as yet I have never
+asked myself?--All that I can say is, that I now am happy by your
+bounty, and have never entertained one wish but for the continuance
+of it.
+
+On that you may depend, said he, while you continue to stand in need of
+it. But would it not be more pleasing to find yourself the mistress of
+an ample fortune, and in a condition to do the same good offices by
+others as you have found from me?--In fine, Louisa, the care I have
+taken of you would not be complete unless I saw you well settled in the
+world.--I have therefore provided a husband for you, and such a one as I
+think you can have no reasonable objection to.
+
+Sir, it would ill-become me to dispute your will, answered she,
+modestly, but as I yet am very young, and have never had a thought of
+marriage, nor even conversed with any who have experienced that fate, I
+should be too much at a loss how to behave in it, without being allowed
+some time to consider on its respective duties.--I hope therefore, sir,
+continued she, you will not oblige me to act with too much precipitation
+in an affair on which the happiness or misery of my whole future
+life depends.
+
+Your very thinking it of consequence, said he, is enough to make you
+behave so, as to allure your happiness with a man of honour; and indeed
+Louisa, I love you too well to propose one to you whose principles and
+humour I could not answer for as well as my own.
+
+Yet, sir, replied she, I have read that a union of hearts as well as
+hands is necessary for the felicity of that state;--that there ought to
+be a simpathy of soul between them, and a perfect confidence in each
+other, before the indissoluble knot is tied:--and this, according to my
+notion, can only be the result of a long acquaintance and accompanied
+with many proofs of affection on both sides.
+
+Were all young women to think as you do, said he with a smile, we would
+have much fewer marriages; they would indeed be happier; therefore I am
+far from condemning your precaution, nor would wish you should give
+yourself to one till well assured he was incapable of treating you with
+less regard after marriage than before:--no, no, Louisa, I will never
+press you to become a wife, till you shall yourself acknowledge the man
+I offer to you as a husband is not unworthy of that title, thro' a want
+of honour, fortune, or affection.
+
+As Louisa thought this must be the work of time, the chagrin she felt at
+the first mention of marriage was greatly dissipated; and she told him,
+that when she was once convinced such a person as he described honoured
+her so far as to think she merited his affection, she would do all in
+her power to return it.
+
+The enamoured Dorilaus having now brought her to the point he aimed at,
+thought it best to throw off the mark at once, and leave her no longer
+in suspence.--Behold then in me, said he, the person I have mentioned:
+nor think me vain in ascribing those merits to myself which I would wish
+to be the loadstone of your affection.--My honour, I believe, you will
+not call in question:--my humour you have never found capricious, or
+difficult to please; and as for my love, you cannot but allow the
+conquering that aversion, which myself, as well as all the world,
+believed unalterable for a marriage state; besides a thousand other
+scruples opposed my entering into it with you, is a proof greater than
+almost any other man could give you.--There requires, therefore, my dear
+Louisa, no time to convince you of what I am, or assure you of what I
+may be; and I hope the affection you bore me, as a faithful friend, and
+the protector of your innocence, will not be diminished on my making
+this declaration.
+
+The confusion in which this speech involved her is even impossible to be
+conceived, much less can any words come up to its description: she
+blushed;--she trembled;--she was ready to die between surprize, grief
+and shame:--fain she would have spoke, but feared, lest what she should
+say would either lose his friendship or encourage his passion.--Each
+seemed equally dreadful to her:--no words presented themselves to her
+distracted mind that she could think proper to utter, till he pressing
+her several times to reply, and seeming a little to resent her
+silence--Oh! sir, cried she, how is it possible for me to make any
+answer to so strange a proposition!--you were not used to rally my
+simplicity; nor can I think you mean what you now mention. If there
+wanted no more, said he, than to prove the sincerity of my wishes in
+this point to gain your approbation of them, my chaplain should this
+moment put it past a doubt, and confirm my proposal:--but, pursued he, I
+will not put your modesty to any farther shock at present;--all I
+intreat is, that you will consider on what I have said, and what the
+passion I am possessed of merits from you. In concluding these words he
+kissed her with the utmost tenderness, and quitted her to speak to some
+men who were at work in another part of the garden, leaving her to
+meditate at liberty on this surprizing turn in her affairs.
+
+It was indeed necessary he should do so, for the various agitations she
+laboured under were so violent, as to be near throwing her into a
+swoon.--She no sooner found herself alone, than she flew to her
+chamber, and locked herself in, to prevent being interrupted by any of
+the servants; and as in all emotions of the mind, especially in that of
+a surprize, tears are a very great relief, her's found some ease from
+the sources of her eyes.--Never had the most dutiful child loved the
+tenderest of fathers more than she did Dorilaus; but then it was only a
+filial affection, and the very thoughts of his regarding her with that
+sort of passion she now found he did, had somewhat in them terribly
+alarming.--All she could do to reconcile herself to what seemed to be
+her fate was in vain.--This generous man who offers me his heart, said
+she, is not my father, or any way of my blood:--he has all the
+accomplishments of his whole sex centered in him.--I could wish to be
+for ever near him.--All that I am is owing to his goodness.--How
+wretched must I have been but for his bounty!--What unaccountable
+prejudice is this then that strikes me with such horror at his
+love!--what maid of birth and fortune equal to his own but would be
+proud of his addresses; and shall I, a poor foundling, the creature of
+his charity, not receive the honour he does me with the utmost
+gratitude!--shall I reject a happiness so far beyond my expectation!
+--so infinitely above any merit I can pretend to!--what must he think of
+me if I refuse him!--how madly stupid, how blind to my own interest, how
+thankless to him must I appear!--how will he despise my folly!--how
+hate my ingratitude!
+
+Thus did her reason combat with her prejudice, and she suffered much the
+same agonies in endeavouring to love him in the manner he desired, as he
+had done to conquer the inclination he had for her, and both alike were
+fruitless. Yet was her condition much more to be commiserated: he had
+only to debate within himself whether he should yield or not to the
+suggestions of his own passion: she to subdue an aversion for what a
+thousand reasons concurred to convince her she ought rather to be
+ambitious of, and which in refusing she run the risque of being cast
+off, and abandoned to beggary and ruin; and what was still more hateful
+to her, being hated by that person who, next to her brother, she loved
+above the world, tho' in a different way from that which could alone
+content him.
+
+Dorilaus, who had taken the disorder he perceived in her for no other
+than the effects of a surprize, which a declaration, such as he had
+made, might very well occasion, was perfectly contented in his mind, and
+passed that night with much more tranquility than he had done many
+preceding ones, while he suffered his cruel reason to war against the
+dictates of his heart; but having now wholly given himself up to the
+latter, the sweet delusion filled him with a thousand pleasing ideas,
+and he thought of nothing but the happiness he should enjoy in the
+possession of the amiable Louisa. But how confounded was he, when the
+next day accosting her with all the tender transports of a lover, she
+turned from him, and burst into a flood of tears. How is this, Louisa,
+said he; do the offers I make you merit to be treated with disdain? has
+my submitting to be your lover forfeited that respect you were wont to
+pay me as a guardian? O do not, sir, accuse me of such black
+ingratitude, replied she; heaven knows with what sincere and humble duty
+I regard you, and that I would sooner die than wilfully offend you; but
+if I am so unfortunate as not to be able to obey you in this last
+command, impute it, I beseech you, to my ill fate, and rather pity than
+condemn me.
+
+You cannot love me then? cried he, somewhat feircely. No otherwise than
+I have ever done, answered she. My heart is filled with duty, reverence
+and gratitude, of which your goodness is the only source: as for any
+other sort of love I know not what it is; were it a voluntary emotion,
+believe me, sir, I gladly would give it entrance into my soul, but I
+well see it is of a far different nature.
+
+Yet is your person at your own disposal, resumed he; and when possessed
+of that, the flame which burns so fiercely in my breast, in time may
+kindle one in yours. In speaking these words he took her in his arms,
+and kissed her with a vehemence which the prodigious respect she bore to
+him, as the patron and benefactor of herself and brother, could alone
+have made her suffer.--Her eyes however sparkled with indignation, tho'
+her tongue was silent, and at last bursting from his embrace, this, sir,
+cried she, is not the way to make me think as you would have me. As in
+this action he had no way transgressed the rules of decency, he could
+ill brook the finding her so much alarmed at it; and would have
+testified his resentment, had not the excess of his love, which is ever
+accompanied with an adequate share of respect, obliged him to stifle it.
+Well, Louisa, said he, looking earnestly upon her, ungenerously do you
+requite what I have done for you; but I, perhaps, may bring myself to
+other sentiments.--None, interrupted she, emboldened by the too great
+freedom she thought he had taken with her, can be so dreadful to me as
+those you now seem to entertain.
+
+The look he gave her on hearing her speak in this manner, made her
+immediately repent having been so open; and in the same breath, because;
+pursued she, I look on it as the worst evil could befal me that I am
+compelled to oppose them.
+
+Come, said he, again softened by these last words, you will not always
+oppose them: the fervor and constancy of my passion, joined with a
+little yielding on your side, will by degrees excite a tender impulse in
+you; and whatever is disagreeable at present, either in my person or
+behaviour, will wear of.--Permit me at least to flatter myself so far,
+and refuse me not those innocent endearments I have been accustomed to
+treat you with; before you knew me as a lover, or I indeed suspected I
+should be so.
+
+He then kissed her again; but tho' he constrained himself within more
+bounds than before, those caresses which she received with pleasure,
+when thinking them only demonstrations of friendship, were now irksome,
+as knowing them the effects of love: she suffered him however to embrace
+her several times, and hold one of her hands close pressed between his,
+while he endeavoured to influence her mind by all the tender arguments
+his passion, backed with an infinity of wit, inspired; to all which she
+made as few replies as possible; but he contented himself, as love is
+always flattering, with imagining she was less refractory to his suit
+than when he first declared it.
+
+Every day, and almost the whole day, did he entertain her on no other
+subject, but gained not the least ground on her inclinations; and all he
+could get from her was the wish of being less insensible, without the
+least indication of ever being so.
+
+In this manner did they live together near three weeks; and how much
+longer he would have been able to restrain his impatience, or she to
+conceal the extreme regret in being compelled to listen to him, is
+uncertain: a law-suit required his presence to town, and Louisa was in
+hopes of being relieved for some time; but his passion was arrived at
+such a height that he could not support the least absence from her, and
+therefore brought her to London with him, so that her persecution ceased
+not, he never stirring from her but when the most urgent business
+obliged him to it.
+
+One night happening to have stayed pretty late abroad, and in company,
+which occasioned his drinking more plentifully than he was accustomed,
+Louisa was retired to her chamber in order to go to bed: his love, ever
+uppermost in his head, would not permit him to think of sleeping without
+seeing her; accordingly he ran up into her room, and finding she was not
+undressed, told her he had something to acquaint her with, on which the
+maid that waited on her withdrew. Tho' the passion he was inspired with
+could not be heightened, his behaviour now proved it might at least be
+rendered more ungovernable by being enflamed with wine: He no sooner was
+alone with her, than he threw himself upon her as she was sitting in a
+chair, crying, O when my angel, my dear adored Louisa, will you consent
+to make me blest.--By heaven, I can no longer wait the tedious
+formalities your modesty demands.--I cannot think you hate me, and must
+this night ensure you mine. While he spoke these words his lips were so
+closely cemented to her's, that had there been no other hindrance, it
+would have been impossible for her to have reply'd.--But terrified
+beyond measure at the wild disorder of his looks, the expressions he
+made use of, and the actions that accompanied them, she wanted even the
+power of repulsing, till seeing her almost breathless, he withdrew his
+arms which he had thrown round her neck, and contenting himself with
+holding one of her hands,--Tell me, pursued he, when may I hope a
+recompence for all I have suffered?--I must, I will have an end of all
+these fears of offending;--this cruel constaint;--this distance between
+us.--Few men, Louisa, in the circumstances we both are, would, like me,
+so long attend a happiness in my power to seize.--Trifle not therefore
+with a passion, the consequences of which there is no answering for.
+
+O, sir! said she, with a trembling voice, you cannot, from the most
+generous, virtuous and honourable man living, degenerate into a brutal
+ravisher.--You will not destroy the innocence you have cherished, and
+which is all that is valuable in the poor Louisa. She ended these words
+with a flood of tears, which, together with the sight of the confusion
+he had occasioned, made him a little recollect himself; and to prevent
+the wildness of his desires from getting the better of those rules he
+had resolved to observe, he let go her hand, and having told her that he
+would press her no farther that night, but expected a more satisfactory
+answer the next day, went out of her chamber, and left her to enjoy what
+repose she could after the alarm he had given her.
+
+
+
+CHAP. III.
+
+_Dorilaus continues his importunities, with some unexpected consequences
+that attended them_.
+
+Poor Louisa concealed the distraction she was in as much as possible she
+could from the maid, who immediately came into the room on Dorilaus
+having quitted it, and suffered her to undress, and put her to bed as
+usual; but was no sooner there, than instead of composing herself to
+sleep, she began to reflect on what he had said:--the words, _that there
+was no answering for the consequences of a passion such as his_, gave
+her the most terrible idea.--His actions too, this night, seem'd to
+threaten her with all a virgin had to fear.--She knew him a man of
+honour, but thought she had too much reason to suspect that if she
+persisted in refusing to be his wife, that passion which had influenced
+him, contrary to his character, to make her such an offer, would also be
+too potent for any consideration of her to restrain him from proceeding
+to extremities. Having debated every thing within her own mind, she
+thought she ought not to continue a day longer in the power of a man who
+loved her to this extravagant degree: where to go indeed she knew
+not;--she had no friend, or even acquaintance, to whom she might repair,
+or hope to be received.--How should she support herself then?--which way
+procure even the most common necessaries of life?--This was a dreadful
+prospect! yet appeared less so than that she would avoid: even starving
+lost its horrors when compared either to being compelled to wed a man
+whom she could not affect as a husband, or, by refusing him, run the
+risque of forfeiting her honour.--She therefore hesitated but a small
+time, and having once formed the resolution of quitting Dorilaus's
+house, immediately set about putting it into execution.
+
+In the first place, not to be ungrateful to him as a benefactor, she sat
+down and wrote the following letter to be left for him on her table:
+
+SIR,
+
+'Heaven having rendered me of a disposition
+utterly incapable of receiving the honour
+you would do me, it would be an ill return for
+all the unmerited favours you have heaped upon
+me to prolong the disquiets I have unhappily occasioned
+by continuing in your presence;--besides,
+sir, the education you have vouchsafed to
+give me has been such, as informs me a person
+of my sex makes but an odd figure while in the
+power of one of yours possessed of the sentiments
+you are.'
+
+'These, sir, are the reasons which oblige me to
+withdraw; and I hope, when well considered,
+will enough apologize for my doing so, to keep
+you from hating what you have but too much
+loved; for I beseech you to believe a great truth,
+which is, that the most terrible idea I carry with
+me is, lest while I fly the one, I should incur the
+other; and that, wheresoever my good or ill stars
+shall conduct me, my first and last prayers shall
+be for the peace, health, and prosperity of my
+most generous and ever honoured patron and benefactor.'
+
+'Judge favourably, therefore, of this action,
+and rather pity than condemn the unfortunate
+
+LOUISA.'
+
+
+Having sealed and directed this, she dressed herself in one of the least
+remarkable and plainest suits she had, taking nothing with her but a
+little linnen which she crammed into her pockets, and so sat waiting
+till she heard some of the family were stirring; then went down stairs,
+and being; seen by one of the footmen, she told him she was not very
+well, and was going to take a little walk in hopes the fresh air might
+relieve her; he offered to wait upon her, but she refused, saying, she
+chose to go alone.
+
+Thus had she made her escape; but, when in the street, was seized with
+very alarming apprehensions.--She was little acquainted with the town,
+and knew not which way to turn in search of a retreat.--Resolving,
+however, to go far enough, at least, from the house she had quitted, she
+wandered on, almost tired to death, without stopping any where, till
+chance directed her to a retired nook, where she saw a bill for lodgings
+on one of the doors.--Here she went in, and finding the place convenient
+for her present circumstances, hired a small, but neat chamber, telling
+the people of the house that she was come to town in order to get a
+service, and till she heard of one to her liking, would be glad to do
+any needle-work she should be employed in.
+
+The landlady, who happened to be a good motherly sort of woman, replied,
+that she was pleased with her countenance, or she would not have
+taken her in without enquiring into her character; and as she seemed not
+to be desirous of an idle life, she would recommend her to those that
+should find her work if she stayed with her never so long.
+
+This was joyful news to our fair fugitive; and she blessed heaven for so
+favourable a beginning of her adventures. The woman was punctual to her
+promise; and being acquainted with a very great milliner, soon brought
+her more work than she could do, without encroaching into those hours
+nature requires for repose: but she seemed not to regret any fatigue to
+oblige the person who employed her, and sent home all she did so neat,
+so curious, and well wrought, that the milliner easily saw she had not
+been accustomed to do it for bread, and was very desirous of having her
+into the house, and securing her to herself. Louisa thinking it would be
+living with less care, agreed to go, on this condition, that she should
+be free to quit her in case any offer happened of waiting upon a lady.
+This was consented to by the other, who told her, that since she had
+that design, she could no where be so likely to succeed as at her house,
+which was very much frequented by the greatest ladies in the kingdom,
+she having the most Curiosities of any woman of her trade, which they
+came there to raffle for.
+
+On this Louisa took leave of her kind landlady, who having taken a great
+fancy to her, and believing it would be for her advantage, was not sorry
+to part with her. A quite new scene of life now presented itself to
+her:--she found indeed the milliner had not made a vain boast; for her
+house was a kind of rendezvous, where all the young and gay of both
+sexes daily resorted.--It was here the marquis of W----r lost his heart,
+for a time, to the fine mrs. S----ge:--here, that the duke of G----n
+first declared his amorous inclinations for mrs. C----r:--here, that the
+seemingly virtuous lady B----n received the addresses of that agreeable
+rover mr. D----n:--here, that the beautiful dutchess of M---- gave that
+encouragement, which all the world had sighed for, to the more fortunate
+than constant mr. C----: in fine, it might properly enough be called the
+theatre of gallantry, where love and wit joined to display their several
+talents either in real or pretended passions.
+
+Louisa usually sat at work in a back parlor behind that where the
+company were; but into which some of them often retired to talk to each
+other with more freedom.
+
+This gave her an opportunity of seeing in what manner too many of the
+great world passed their time, and how small regard some of them pay to
+the marriage vow: everyday presented her with examples of husbands, who
+behaved with no more than a cold civility to their own wives, and
+carried the fervor of their addresses to those of other men; and of
+wives who seemed rather to glory in, than be ashamed of a train of
+admirers. How senseless would these people think me, said she to
+herself, did they know I chose rather to work for my bread in mean
+obscurity, than yield to marry where I could not love.--Tenderness,
+mutual affection, and constancy. I find, are things not thought
+requisite to the happiness of a wedded state; and interest and
+convenience alone consulted. Yet was she far from repenting having
+rejected Dorilaus, or being in the lead influenced by the example of
+others.--The adventures she was witness of made her, indeed, more
+knowing of the world, but were far from corrupting those excellent
+morals she had received from nature, and had been so well improved by a
+strict education, that she not only loved virtue for its own sake, but
+despised and hated vice, tho' disguised under the most specious
+pretences.
+
+Her youth, beauty, and a certain sprightliness in her air, was too
+engaging to be in the house of such a woman as mrs. C----ge, (for so
+this court-milliner was called) without being very much taken notice of;
+and tho' most of the gentlemen who came there had some particular object
+in view, yet that did not hinder them from saying soft things to the
+pretty Louisa as often as they had opportunity. Among the number of
+those who pretended to admire her was mr. B----n, afterwards lord F----h;
+but his addresses were so far from making any impression on her in
+favour of his person or suit, that the one was wholly indifferent to
+her, and the other so distasteful, that to avoid being persecuted with
+it, she entreated mrs. C----ge to permit her to work above stairs, that
+she might be out of the way of all such solicitations for the future,
+either from him or any other. This request was easily complied with, and
+the rather because she, who knew not the strength of her journey-woman's
+resolution, nor the principles she had been bred in, was sometimes in
+fear of losing so great a help to her business, by the temptations that
+might be offered in a place so much exposed to sight. Mr. B----n no
+sooner missed her, than he enquired with a good deal of earnestness for
+her; and on mrs. C----ge's telling him she was gone away from her house,
+became so impatient to know where, and on what account she had left her,
+that this woman thinking it would be of advantage to her to own the
+truth, (for she did nothing without that view) turned off the imposition
+with a smile, and said, that perceiving the inclinations he had for her,
+she had sent her upstairs that no other addresses might be a hindrance
+to his designs.--This pleased him very well, and he ran directly to the
+room where he was informed she was, and after some little discourse,
+which he thought was becoming enough from a person of his condition to
+one of her's, began to treat her with freedoms which she could not help
+resisting with more fierceness than he had been accustomed to from women
+of a much higher rank; but as he had no great notion of virtue,
+especially among people of her sphere, he mistook all she said or did
+for artifice; and imagining she enhanced the merit of the gift only to
+enhance the recompence, he told her he would make her a handsome
+settlement, and offered, as an earnest of his future gratitude, a purse
+of money. The generous maid fired with a noble disdain at a proposal,
+which she looked on only as an additional insult, struck down the purse
+with the utmost indignation and cried, she was not of the number of
+those who thought gold an equivalent for infamy; and that mean as she
+appeared, not all his wealth should bribe her to a dishonourable action.
+At first he endeavoured to laugh her out of such idle notions as he
+called them, and was so far from being rebuffed at any thing she said,
+that he began to kiss and toy with her more freely than before, telling
+her he would bring her into a better humour; but he was wholly deceived
+in his expectations, if he had any of the nature he pretended, for she
+became so irritated at being treated in this manner, that she called out
+to the servants to come to her assistance, and protected she would not
+stay an hour longer in the house if she could not be secured from such
+impertinencies; on which he said she was a silly romantic fool, and
+flung out of the room.
+
+Mrs. C----ge hearing there had been some bustle, came up soon after and
+found Louisa in tears: she immediately complained, of mr. B----n's
+behaviour to her, and said, tho' she acknowledged herself under many
+obligations to her for the favours she had conferred on her, she could
+not think of remaining in a place where, tho' she could not say her
+virtue had any severe trials, because she had a natural detestation to
+crimes of the kind that gentleman and some others had mentioned, yet her
+person was liable to be affronted. The milliner, who was surprized to
+hear her talk in this manner, but who understood her trade perfectly
+well, answered, that he was the best conditioned civil gentleman in the
+world;--that she did not know how it happened;--that she was certain
+indeed he loved her; and that it was in his power to make her a very
+happy woman if she were inclined to accept his offers;--but she would
+perswade her to nothing.
+
+These kind of discourses created a kind of abhorrence in Louisa, as they
+plainly shewed her, what before she had some reason to believe, that she
+was in the house of one who would think nothing a crime that she found
+it her own interest to promote. However, she thought it would be
+imprudent to break too abruptly with her, and contented herself for the
+present with encasing her promise that neither mr. B----n, nor any other
+person should for the future give her the least interruption of the
+like sort.
+
+From this day, however, she was continually ruminating how she should
+quit her house, without running the risque of disobliging her so far as
+not to be employed by her; for tho' she found herself at present free
+from any of those importunities to which both by nature and principles
+she was so averse, yet she could not answer to herself the continuing in
+a place where virtue was treated as a thing of little or no consequence,
+and where she knew not how soon she might again be subjected
+to affronts.
+
+Amidst these meditations the thoughts of Dorilaus frequently intervened:
+she reflected on the obligations she had to him, and the mighty
+difference between the morals of that truly noble and generous man, and
+most of those she had seen at mrs. C----ge's: she wondered at herself at
+the antipathy she had to him as a husband, whom she so dearly loved and
+honoured as a friend; yet nothing could make her wish to be again on the
+same terms with him she had lately been. It also greatly added to her
+affliction that she knew not how to direct to her brother; for at the
+time of his departure, little suspicious of having any occasion to
+change the place of her abode, she had left the care of that entirely to
+Dorilaus. She was one morning very much lost in thought on the odd
+circumstances of her fortune, when a Gazette happening to lye upon the
+table, she cast her eye, without design, upon the following
+advertisement.
+
+
+'Whereas a young gentlewoman has lately
+thought fit to abscond from her best friends,
+and with the most diligent search that could possibly
+be made after her has not yet been heard of,
+this is to acquaint her that if she pleases to return,
+she shall hereafter have no disturbance of that
+nature which it is supposed occasioned her withdrawing
+herself, but live entirely according to
+her own inclinations; and this the advertiser
+hereof gives his word and honour (neither of
+which she has any cause to doubt) faithfully to
+adhere to.'
+
+'It shall also be at her choice to live either at
+the house she quitted, or to be again under the
+care of that gentlewoman who was entrusted
+with her education: she is therefore requested to
+conceal herself no longer, lest her youth, beauty,
+and inexperience of the town should betray her
+innocence into those very snares she fears to fall
+into.'
+
+
+The very beginning of this paragraph gave her a conjecture it was meant
+for no other than herself; and the more she read, the more she grew
+convinced, of it.--It must be so, cryed she; every word,--every
+circumstance confirms it.--How unhappy am I that I cannot return so
+perfect an affection!--Instead of detesting my ingratitude, he only
+fears I should receive the punishment of it.--What man but Dorilaus
+would behave thus to the creature of his benevolence?--If I have any
+merits, do not I owe them to his goodness?--My brother and myself, two
+poor exposed and wretched foundlings, what but his bounty rear'd us to
+what we are?--Hard fate!--unlucky passion that drives me from his
+presence and protection.
+
+Yet, would she say again, if he has indeed subdued that passion;--if he
+resolves to think of me as before he entertained it; if I were certain
+he would receive me as a child, how great would be, the blessing!
+
+This confederation had so much effect on her, that she was half
+determined to comply with the advertisement; but when she remembered to
+have read that where love is sincere and violent, it requires a length
+of time to be erased, and that those possessed of it are incapable of
+knowing even their own strength, and, as he had said to her himself,
+_that there was no answering for the consequences,_ she grew instantly
+of another mind, and thought that putting herself again into the power
+of such a passion was running too great a hazard.
+
+The continual agitations of her mind, joined to want of air, a quite
+different way of life, and perhaps fitting more closely to work than she
+had been accustomed, threw her at length into a kind of languishing
+indisposition, which, tho' it did not confine her to her bed, occasioned
+a loss of appetite, and frequent faintings, which were very alarming to
+her. Mrs. C----ge was extremely concerned to observe this change in her,
+and would have the opinion of her own physician, who said that she had
+symptoms of an approaching consumption, and that it was absolutely
+necessary she should be removed into the country for some time.
+
+Louisa readily complied with this advice, not only because she imagined
+it might be of service for the recovery of her health, but also as it
+furnished her with a pretence for leaving mrs. C----ge's house, to which
+she was determined to return no more as a boarder. The good woman with
+whom she had lodged at first recommended her to a friend of her's at
+Windsor, where she immediately went, and was very kindly received.
+
+
+
+CHAP. IV.
+
+_Louisa becomes acquainted with a lady of quality, part of whose
+adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her_.
+
+Change of place affords but small relief to those whose distempers are
+in the mind: Louisa carried with her too many perplexing thoughts to be
+easily shook off; tho' the queen and court being then at Windsor, she
+had the opportunity of seeing a great many of the gay world pass daily
+by her window.--There also lodged in the same house with her a young
+widow of quality, who was visited by persons of the first rank; but as
+she was not of a condition to make one in any of these conversations,
+she reaped no other satisfaction from them than what the eye afforded.
+
+As she was not, however, of a temper to indulge melancholy, she made it
+her endeavour to banish, as much as possible, all ideas which were
+displeasing from her mind: to this end, a fine harpsicord happening to
+stand in the dining-room, whenever the lady was abroad, she went in and
+diverted herself with playing. She was one day entertaining the woman of
+the house with a tune, which she accompanied with her voice, when the
+lady returning sooner than was expected, and hearing the instrument
+before she came up stairs, would needs know who it was had been making
+use of it; for Louisa hurried out of the room before she came in: the
+landlady, as there was no occasion to disguise the truth, told her that
+it was a young woman, who not being very well, had come down into the
+country for air.
+
+She has had an excellent education, I am certain, said the lady, (who
+henceforward we shall call Melanthe) for in my life I never heard any
+body play or sing better:--I must be acquainted with her; on which the
+other said she would let her know the honour she intended her.
+
+That very evening, as great ladies no sooner think of any thing but they
+must have it performed, was Louisa sent for into her apartment; and her
+countenance and behaviour so well seconded the good impression her skill
+in music had begun, that Melanthe became charm'd with her, and from that
+time obliged her to come to her every morning; and whenever she was
+without company, made her dine and sup with her. Being curious to know
+her circumstances, Louisa made no scruple of acquainting her with the
+truth, only instead of relating how she had been exposed in her infancy,
+said, that having the misfortune to be deprived of her parents, it was
+her intention to wait on a lady, and till she heard of one who would
+accept her service, she had work'd at her needle.
+
+Melanthe then asked if she would live with her; to which the other
+gladly answering, she should think herself happy in such a lady; but you
+must go abroad then, said she, for I am weary of England, and am
+preparing to travel: as it is a route of pleasure only, I shall stay
+just as long as I find any thing new and entertaining in one place, then
+go to another till I am tired of that, and so on, I know not how long;
+for unless my mind alters very much, I shall not come back in
+some years.
+
+Louisa was perfectly transported to hear her say this; she had a great
+desire to see foreign parts, and thought she never could have a better
+opportunity: she expressed the pleasure she should take in attending her
+wherever she went with so much politeness and sincerity, that Melanthe
+told her, it should be her own fault if she ever quitted her, and withal
+assured her, she never would treat her in any other manner than a
+companion, and that tho' she would make her a yearly allowance for
+cloaths and card-money, yet she would expect no other service from her
+than fidelity to her secrets, and affection to her person.
+
+From the moment this agreement was made, the young Louisa regained her
+complection and her appetite; and being now initiated into the family of
+this lady, had no longer any care to take than to oblige her, a thing
+not difficult, Melanthe being good-natured, and strongly prepossessed in
+favour of her new friend, for so she vouchsafed to call her, and to use
+her accordingly.
+
+As a proof of it, she made her in a very short time the confident of her
+dearest secrets: they were one day sitting together, when accidentally
+some mention was made of the power of love. You are too young, Louisa,
+said Melanthe, to have experienced the wonderful effects of that passion
+in yourself, and therefore cannot be expected to have much compassion
+for what it can inflict on others.
+
+Indeed, madam, answered she, tho' I never have yet seen a man who gave
+me a moment's pain on that score, yet I believe there are no emotions
+whatever so strong as those of love, and that it is capable of
+influencing people of the best sense to things which in their nature
+they are most averse to.
+
+Well, my dear, resumed the other, since I find you have so just a notion
+of it, I will confide in your discretion so far as to let you know, that
+but for an ungrateful man, I had not looked on my native country as a
+desart, and resolved to seek a cure for my ill-treated and abused
+tenderness in foreign parts.
+
+My quality, continued she, I need not inform you of; you have doubtless
+heard that my family yields to few in antiquity, and that there is an
+estate belonging to it sufficient to support the dignity of its title;
+but my father having many children, could not give very great portions
+to the daughters: I was therefore disposed of, much against my
+inclinations, to a nobleman, whom my unlucky charms had so much
+captivated as to make him not only take me with no other dowry than my
+cloaths and jewels, but also to settle a large jointure upon me, which,
+he being dead, I at present enjoy. I cannot say that all the obligations
+he laid upon me could engage a reciprocal regard:--I behaved with
+indifference to him while living, and little lamented him when dead: not
+that I was prepossessed in favour of any other man;--my heart, entirely
+free, was reserved to be the conquest of the too charming perfidious
+Henricus, who arriving soon after my lord's decease, and bringing with
+him all the accomplishments which every different court he had visited
+could afford, join'd to the most enchanting person nature ever formed,
+soon made me know I was not that insensible creature I had
+thought myself.
+
+I happened to be at court when he came to kiss her majesty's hand on his
+return; and whether it was that my eyes testified too much the
+admiration this first sight of him struck me with, or that he really
+discovered something more attractive in me than any lady in the presence
+I know not, but he seemed to distinguish me in a particular manner, and
+I heard him say to my lord G----n in a whisper, that I was the finest
+woman he had ever seen; but what gave me more pleasure than even this
+praise, was an agreement I heard made between him and the same lord to
+go that evening to a raffle at mrs. C--rt-s--r's. I was one of those who
+had put in, tho' if I had not, I should certainly, have gone for a
+second sight of him, who when he went out of the drawing-room seemed to
+have left me but half myself.
+
+In fine, I went, and had there wanted any thing to have entirely
+vanquished me, my conqueror's manner of address had done it with a form
+less agreeable.--O Louisa, pursued she with a sigh, if you have never
+seen or heard the charming Henricus, you can have no notion of what is
+excellent in man; such flowing wit;--such softness in his voice and
+air;--but there is no describing what he is. He seemed all transport at
+meeting me there; among a number of ladies I alone engrossed him: he
+scarce spoke to any other; and being so fortunate to win the raffle,
+which was a fine inlaid India cabinet, instead of sending it to his own
+house, he privately ordered his servant to leave it at mine, lord G----n
+having, as he afterwards told me, informed him where I lived, and also
+all the particulars he wanted to know concerning me.
+
+I was prodigiously surprized when I came home and found the Cabinet,
+which my woman imagined I had won by its being brought thither. It was
+indeed a piece of gallantry I had no reason to expect from one so
+perfect a stranger to me; and this, joined with the many complaisant
+things he said to me at mrs. C--rt-f--r's, flattered my vanity enough to
+make me think he was no less charmed with me than I too plainly found I
+was with him. I slept little that night, and pretty early the next
+morning received a billet from him to this effect:
+
+MADAM,
+
+'I thought the cabinet we raffled for was more
+properly the furniture of a lady's closet than
+mine, especially one who must daily receive a
+great number of such epistles as it was doubtless
+intended by the maker to contain: happy should
+I think myself if any thing of mine might find
+room among those which, for their wit and elegance,
+may be more worthy of preferring, tho'
+none can be for their sincerity more so than those
+which are dictated by the eternally devoted heart of
+
+HENRICUS.'
+
+You cannot imagine, my dear Louisa, how delighted I was with these few
+lines; I enclosed them indeed in the cabinet given me by the author of
+them, but laid up their meaning in my heart:--I was quite alert the
+whole day, but infinitely more so, when in the evening my admired
+Henricus made me a visit introduced by lord H----, who had been one of
+my late husband's particular friends, and had ever kept a good
+correspondence with me.
+
+Henricus took, not the least notice either of the cabinet or letter
+before him; and as I imagined he had his reasons for it, I too was
+silent on that head; he took the opportunity, however, while lord H----
+was speaking to a young lady who happened to be with me, to ask
+permission to wait on me with the hope of being received on his own
+score as he was now on that of his friend. I told him that merit, such
+as his, was sufficient to recommend him any where; and, besides, I had
+an obligation to him which I ought to acknowledge. This was all either
+of us had time to say; but it was enough to make me convinced he desired
+a more particular conversation, and him, that it would not be
+unwelcome to me.
+
+Thus began an acquaintance equally fatal to my peace of mind and
+reputation; and having said that, it would be needless to repeat the
+circumstances of it, therefore shall only tell you I was so infatuated
+with my passion, that I never gave myself the trouble to examine into
+the nature of his pretensions, and lull'd with the vows he made of
+everlasting love, resented not that he forbore pressing to that ceremony
+which could alone ensure it:--yes, my Louisa, I will not wrong him so
+far as to say he deceived me in this point; for tho' he protested with
+the most solemn imprecations that he would never address any either
+woman than myself, yet he never once mentioned marriage to me.--Alass!
+he too well saw into my heart, and that all my faculties were too much
+his to be able to refuse him any thing:--even so it proved;--he
+triumphed over all in my power to yield;--nay, was so far subdued, that
+I neither regretted my loss, nor used any endeavours to conceal
+it;--vain of being his at any rate, I thought his love more glory to me
+than either fame or virtue; and while I was known to enjoy the one,
+despised whatever censures I incurred for parting with the other:--in
+the mall, the play-house, the ring, at Bath or Tunbridge, he was always
+with me; nor would any thing indeed have been a diversion to me had he
+been absent.
+
+For upwards of a year I had no reason to complain of his want of
+assiduity to me, tho' I have since heard even in that time he had other
+amours with women who carried them on with more prudence than I was
+mistress of; but I had afterwards a stabbing proof of his insincerity
+and inconstancy.
+
+Perceiving a great alteration in his behaviour, that he visited me less
+frequently, and when he came, the ardours he was accustomed to treat me
+with still more and more languid and enforced, I upbraided him in terms
+which, tho' they shewed more love than resentment, and had he retained
+any tolerable remains of tenderness for me, must have been rather
+obliging than the contrary, he affected to take extremely ill, and told
+me plainly, that nothing was so dear to him as his peace,--that he was
+not of a temper to endure reproaches, and that, if I desired the
+continuance of our amour, I must be satisfied with him as he was. These
+cool, and indeed insolent replies made me almost distracted; and
+beginning to suspect he had some new engagement, I talked to him in a
+manner as if I had been assured of it:--he, perhaps, imagining it was
+so, made no efforts to cure my jealousy, but behaved with so cruel an
+indifference as confirmed my apprehensions.
+
+Resolving to be convinced whether I really had any rival or not, I
+employed spies to observe where-ever he went, and to whom; but alass,
+there required little pains to acquire the intelligence I fought.--I
+was soon informed that he was every day with the daughter of a little
+mechanic;--that he made her very rich presents, procured a commission in
+the army for one of her brothers, and in fine, that he was as much
+devoted to her as a man of his inconstant temper could be to any woman.
+
+How severe a mortification was this to my pride! but it had this good
+attending it, that it very much abated my love:--to be abandoned for so
+mean a creature, and who had nothing but youth and a tolerable face to
+recommend her, shewed such a want of taste as well as gratitude, as
+rendered despicable in my eyes what had lately engrossed all my love and
+admiration.--The moment I received the information I sent for him;--and
+forcing my countenance to a serenity my heart was a stranger to, told
+him it was only to take a last leave of a person whom I had been so far
+mistaken in as to think deserving my affection: that I desired to see
+him once more, but having now seen my error, desired he would desist his
+visits for the future. He asked me with the same calmness he had lately
+behaved with, what whim I had got in my head now, I, who had before
+determined not to feed my rival's pride by shewing any jealousy of her,
+only replied, that as amours, such as ours had been, must have an end
+some time or other,--I thought none could be more proper than the
+present, because I believed both of us could do it without pain.
+
+Answer for yourself, madam, cried he with some emotion, for I could
+perceive my behaviour had a little flung his vanity; and resolute to
+give him in my turn all the mortification in my power, nay, said I with
+a disdainful toss of my head, I do not enquire into your sentiments,--it
+is sufficient mine are to break entirely off with you;--neither is it
+any concern to me how you may resent this alteration in my conduct, or
+dispose of yourself hereafter; but I once more assure you, with my usual
+frankness, that I now can see none of those perfections my foolish fancy
+formerly found in you, and cannot be complaisant enough to counterfeit a
+tenderness I neither feel nor think you worthy of.
+
+The surprize he was in kept him silent for some moments; but recovering
+himself as well as he could, he told me, that if the levity of my nature
+had made me cease to love him, he could not have expected endearments
+should be converted into affronts; that if I was determined to see him
+no more he must submit, and should endeavour to make himself as easy as
+he could under the misfortune.
+
+These last words were uttered with a kind of sneer, which was very
+provoking, however, I restrained my passion during the little time he
+stayed; but as soon as I found myself alone gave it vent in tears and
+exclamations,--since which I have been mere at peace within myself; for
+tho' I cannot say I hate him, I am now far from loving him, and hope
+that time and absence may bring me to a perfect indifference.
+
+Thus, Louisa, continued she, you see the beginning and end of an
+adventure which has made some noise in town, to be out of which I have
+taken a resolution to travel till the whole shall be forgotten, and I
+have entirely rooted out of my heart all manner of consideration for
+this ungrateful man.
+
+Louisa thanked her for the condescension me had made her in entrusting
+her with so important a secret, and said every thing she could in praise
+of the resolution she had taken to leave England for a time, not only
+because it was exactly conformable to her own desires, but also that she
+thought it so laudable in itself. Melanthe then assured her that she was
+not capable of changing her mind in this particular, and that her
+equipage was getting ready at London for that purpose, so that she
+believed they should embark in a few days. Louisa, on hearing this,
+said, that she must then provide herself with some things it would be
+necessary for her to have in order to appear in the station her ladyship
+was pleased to place her; but the other, who, as may be seen by her
+history, never preserved a medium in any thing, would not suffer her to
+be at the least expence on that account, but took the care of furnishing
+her with every thing on herself; and accordingly sent a man and horse to
+town directly to her mercer's, draper's, milliner's, and other
+tradesmen, with orders to send down silks, laces, hollands, and whatever
+else was requisite; which being brought, were put to be made fit for
+wearing by workwomen at Windsor; so that now our Louisa made as good a
+figure, and had as great a variety of habits as when under the
+guardianship of Dorilaus, and, to complete her happiness, this new
+benefactress grew every day more, and more delighted with her company.
+
+All being now prepared, they came to London, where they lay but one
+night before they took shipping for Helvoetsluys in Holland, where,
+being safely landed, they proceeded to Utrecht, and so to
+Aix-la-chappelle; there they stayed some weeks for the sake of the
+waters, air, and good company; and Louisa thought it so pleasant, that
+she would have been glad not to have removed for some time longer; but
+Melanthe was yet restless in her mind, and required frequent change of
+place. Here it was, however, that Louisa thought she might venture to
+write to Dorilaus, to ease him of that kind concern she doubted not but
+he was in for her welfare, by the advertisement already mentioned in the
+Gazette. The purport of her letter was as follows:
+
+_Ever Honoured Sir_,
+
+'Child of your bounty as I am, I flatter myself
+that, in spight of my enforc'd disobedience,
+it would be a trouble to you to hear I should
+do any thing unworthy of that education you were
+pleased to bestow on me: I therefore take the liberty
+of acquainting you, that heaven has raised
+me a protectress in a lady of quality with whom
+I now am, as you will see by the date of this, at
+Aix-la-chappelle. As all the favours I receive
+from her, or all the good that shall happen during
+my whole life is, and will be entirely owing
+to you as the fountain-head, it will be always my
+inclination, as well as duty, to pay you the tribute
+of grateful thanks.--Poor recompence,
+alas, for all you have done for me! yet those,
+with my incessant prayers to heaven, are all in
+the power of
+
+_Your most dutiful_
+
+LOUISA.'
+
+She took no notice of the advertisement, not only as she could not be
+positive it related to herself, as also because she thought, if he were
+certain she had read it, he might resent her not answering it, as
+discovering a too great diffidence of his honour. She added, however, a
+postscript, entreating him to let her brother know, that whatever
+happened, he should have no reason to find fault with her conduct.
+
+After they left Aix-la-chappelle, they took bye roads to avoid the
+armies; yet notwithstanding all their care, they now and then met
+parties who were out on foraging, but as it happened, they were always
+under the conduct of officers who prevented any ill accident, so that
+our travellers met with no manner of interruption, but arrived safely at
+the magnificent city of Vienna, where was at that time an extreme gay
+court, affording every thing capable of diverting a much more settled
+melancholy than either Melanthe or her fair companion were possessed of.
+
+The arch-dutchesses, Mary Elizabeth, and Mary Anna Josepha, afterward
+queen of Portugal, had frequent balls and entertainments in their
+different drawing-rooms; to all which Melanthe, being a stranger and a
+woman of quality, was invited: she kept her promise with Louisa; and
+treating her as a young lady, whose friendship for her, and a desire of
+seeing the world had engaged to accompany her, she was received and
+respected as such; and by this means had an opportunity of shewing the
+skill she had in dancing, singing, music, and indeed all the
+accomplishments that a woman born and educated to the best expectations,
+is usually instructed in. As neither her lady nor herself understood the
+German language, and she spoke infinitely the best French, her
+conversation was the most agreeable, which, joined with a most engaging
+manner, and a peculiar sweetness in her voice, attracted all those
+civilities which the rank of the other demanded.
+
+Possessed of so many charms, it would have been strange if, in a city
+throng'd like Vienna with young noblemen, who were continually coming
+from all parts of the empire, she had lived without some who pretended
+to somewhat more than mere admiration; but her heart had not refused the
+worthy Dorilaus to become the conquest of a German; nor was it here she
+was ordained to experience those anxieties in herself, she could but
+imperfectly conceive by the description she had from others.
+
+Melanthe, however, whose sole aim was to drive all perplexing thoughts
+from her mind, encouraged a great number of visitors, so that her
+lodgings seemed a perfect theatre of gallantry; and Louisa having her
+share in all the amusements this lady prepared for the reception of
+those that came to see her, or were contrived for her entertainment by
+others, past her time in the most gay and agreeable manner imaginable,
+and by this means acquired the knowledge of almost the only thing she
+before was ignorant in, how to receive a multiplicity of company, yet to
+behave so is each should imagine themselves most welcome;--to seem
+perfectly open, without discovering any thing improper to be
+revealed;--to use all decent freedoms with the men, yet not encourage
+the least from them, and to seem to make a friend of every woman she
+conversed with, without putting truth in any;--and in fine, all the
+little policies which make up the art of what is called a polite
+address, and which is not to be attained without an acquaintance with
+the court and great world.
+
+This, I say, our amiable foundling was now well vers'd in, and practised
+among those who she found made a practice of it; but yet retained the
+same sincerity of mind, love of virtue, and detestation of vice, she
+brought with her from the house of Dorilaus:--neither was her youth too
+much dazled with the exterior splendor she beheld; and tho' she was well
+enough pleased with it, yet it did not in the least take her off from
+the duties of religion, or inspire her with any ambitious or aspiring
+wishes to become what the remembrance of what she was forbid any
+probable expectation of. She knew the present fashion of her life was
+not an assured settlement, and therefore set not her heart upon it. Few
+at her years would have had the like prudence, or in time armed
+themselves, as she did, against any change that might befal her.
+
+In this happy situation let us leave her for a while: the young Horatio
+claims his share of attention; and it is time to see what encouragement
+and success his martial ardor met with on the banks of the Danube.
+
+
+
+CHAP. V.
+
+_Horatio's reception by the officers of the army; his behaviour in the
+battle; his being taken prisoner by the French; his treatment among
+them, and many other particulars._
+
+The extreme graceful person of Horatio, his youth, handsome equipage,
+and the letters sent by Dorilaus to several of the principal officers in
+his favour, engaged him a reception answerable to his wishes: but none
+was of greater service than the recommendation he had to colonel
+Brindfield, who being in great favour with the duke of Marlborough, was
+highly respected by the whole army. This gentleman made him dine
+frequently with him, and testified the regard he had for Dorilaus, by
+doing all the good offices he could to a youth whom he perceived by his
+letter he had a great concern for. He not only introduced him to the
+acquaintance of many officers of condition, but took an opportunity of
+presenting him to the duke himself, giving at the same time his grace an
+account that he was a gentleman whose inclinations to arms, and the
+honour of serving under his grace, had made him renounce all other
+advantages for the hope of doing something worthy of his favour. The
+duke looked all the time he was speaking very attentively on the young
+Horatio, and finding something in his air that corroborated the
+colonel's description, was pleased to say, that he was charm'd with his
+early thirst after same; and then turning toward him, you will soon,
+pursued he, have an opportunity of seeing how the face of war looks,
+near at hand:--I can tell you, that you must not always expect smiles.
+No, my lord, replied he, without being at all daunted at the presence of
+so great a man; but where we love all countenances are agreeable.
+
+He arrived indeed opportunely to be a witness of the dangers of that
+glorious campaign which brought such shame to the French, such honour to
+the English, and such real advantages to the empire. Prince Eugene of
+Savoy, and prince Lewis of Baden were come to the duke's quarters, which
+were then at Mondesheim, to consult on proper operations; the result
+was, that the duke and prince Lewis should join armies, and command each
+day alternately, and that prince Eugene should head a separate army and
+repair towards Philipsburg, to defend the passage of the Rhine, the
+lines of Stolhoffen, and the country of Wirtenberg.
+
+The two armies joined at Westerstretton, thence proceeded by easy
+marches towards Donawert, between which and Scellenberg the enemy was
+encamped. Fatigued as they were, the duke made them pass over a little
+river and endeavour to force the intrenchments; which enterprize
+succeeded, notwithstanding all the disadvantages the confederate armies
+were in, and the others were obliged to retire with great precipitation,
+many of whom were drowned in endeavouring to pass the Danube.
+
+In this action was our young soldier unlisted, and had the glory to be
+signalized by two remarkable accidents; one was, that pressing among the
+foremost in this hazardous attempt, he had his hat taken off by a cannon
+ball; and the other was, that seeing a standard about to be taken by the
+enemy, the person who carried it happening to be kill'd, he ran among
+those who were carrying it away, and being seconded by some others,
+retrieved that badge of English honour; and as this was done in sight of
+the duke, he rode up to him directly and presented it to him. Take it
+for your pains, cried he, you have ventured hard, and well deserve the
+prize. There was no time for thanks; the duke, who was almost every
+where at once, was immediately gone where he found his presence
+necessary, and Horatio returned to take the place of the dead cornet,
+doubly animated by the encouragement he had received.
+
+This victory opening a way into the elector of Bavaria's dominions, that
+poor country was terribly ravaged, no less than 300 towns, villages and
+castles being utterly consumed by a detachment of horse and dragoons the
+duke sent for that purpose. Some old officers told Horatio that now
+would be the time to make his fortune if he went with these squadrons,
+there being many rich things which would fall to the share of the
+plunderers; to which he answered, that he came to fight for the honour
+of his country, and not to rob for its disgrace. This they laughed at,
+and endeavoured to make him sensible, that the taking away an enemy's
+treasure was to take away their strength; but all they could say was
+ineffectual; he was not to be perswaded out of what he thought reason
+and justice: and this conversation being afterward repeated to the duke,
+he smil'd and said, he was yet too young to know the value of money.
+
+After this, prince Lewis of Baden dividing from the duke, in order to
+undertake the siege of Ingoldstadt, our young cornet attended his grace
+to the relief of prince Eugene, who expected to be attacked by the
+united army of Bavarians and French, then encamped near Hockstadt.
+
+It would be needless to give any description of this famous battle, few
+of my readers but must be acquainted with it, so I shall only say, that
+among the number of those few prisoners the French had to boast of in
+attonement for so great a defeat, was the young brave Horatio, who fell
+to the lot of the baron de la Valiere, nephew to the marquis of Sille.
+This nobleman being extremely taken with his person and behaviour,
+treated him in the politest manner; and tho' he carried him with him
+into France, assured him, that it was more for the pleasure of
+entertaining him there than any other consideration. Horatio was not
+much afflicted at this misfortune, because it gave him an opportunity of
+seeing a country he had heard so much commended, and also to make
+himself master of a language, which, tho' he understood, he spoke but
+imperfectly.
+
+The baron was not only one of the most gallant, but also one of the best
+humoured men in the world; he spared nothing during the whole time they
+tarried in his quarters, nor in their journey to Paris, which might
+contribute to make his prisoner easy under his present circumstances;
+and among other things, often said to him, if you and some others have
+fallen under the common chance of war, you have yet the happiness of
+knowing your army in general has been victorious, and that, there are
+infinitely a greater number of ours who, against their will, must see
+England, than, there are of yours conducted into France.
+
+On their arrival, Horatio wrote an account to Dorilaus of all had
+happened to him, not doubting but he would use his interest to have him
+either mentioned when there should come an exchange of prisoners, or
+that he would randsom him himself; but receiving no answer, he concluded
+his letter, by some accident, had miscarried, and sent another, but that
+meeting the same fate as the former, he wrote a third, accompanied with
+one to his sister directed to the boarding-school, where he imagined she
+still was: to this last, after some time, he had the following return
+from the governess:
+
+SIR,
+
+'A letter directed for miss Louisa coming to
+my house, I was in debate with myself
+what to do with it, that young lady having been
+gone from me last September, since which time
+I have never heard any thing of her:--at last I
+sent it to Dorilaus's country seat by a messenger,
+who brought it to me again, with intelligence
+that he was gone with some friends into the north
+of Ireland, and that it was probable they had
+taken miss with them:--I then thought proper
+to open it, believing she had no secrets I might
+not be entrusted with, and finding it came from
+you, could do no less than give you this information
+to prevent your being under any surprize
+for not receiving answers to your letters. I am
+sorry to find by yours that you have had such ill
+success in your first campaign; but would not
+have you be cast down, since you need not doubt
+but on the return of Dorilaus you will have remittances
+for your ransom, or whatever else you
+may have occasion for.'
+
+_I am_, SIR,
+_Your most humble and obedient Servant,_
+
+A. TRAINWELL.
+
+This letter made him perfectly contented; he had no reason to question
+the continuance of Dorilaus's goodness to him, nor that he should attend
+this new proof of it any longer than the return of that gentleman to
+England should make him know the occasion he now had for it. He
+therefore had no anxious thoughts to interrupt the pleasures the place
+he was in afforded in such variety; he was every evening with the baron,
+either at court, the opera, the comedy, or some other gay scene of
+entertainment; was introduced to the best company; and his young heart,
+charm'd with the politeness and gallantry of that nation, and the little
+vanity to which a person of such early years is incident, being
+flattered with the complaisance he was treated with, gave him in a short
+time a very strong affection for them; but there was yet another and
+more powerful motive which rendered his captivity not only pleasing, but
+almost destroyed in him an inclination ever to see his native
+country again.
+
+The baron de la Valiere had long been passionately in love with a young
+lady, who was one of the maids of honour to king James's queen: he went
+almost every day to St. Germains, in order to prosecute his addresses,
+and frequently took Horatio with him. The motive of his first
+introducing him to that court was, perhaps, the vanity of shewing him
+that no reverse of fate could make the French regardless of what was due
+to royalty, since the Chevalier St. George seem'd to want no requisite
+of majesty but the power; but he afterwards found the pleasure he took
+in those visits infinitely surpassed what he could have expected, and
+that his heart had an attachment, which made him no sooner quit that
+palace than he would ask with impatience when they should go thither
+again. The baron had a great deal of penetration; and as those who feel
+the power of love in themselves can easily perceive the progress it
+makes in others, a very few visits confirmed him that Horatio had found
+something there more attractive than all he could behold elsewhere: nor
+was he long at a loss to discover, among the number or beauties which
+composed the trains of the queen and princess, which of them it was that
+had laid his prisoner under a more lasting captivity than war had done.
+
+Princess Louisa Maria Teresa, daughter of the late king James, was then
+but in her thirteenth year; the ladies who attended her were all of them
+much of the same age; and to shew the respect the French had for this
+royal family, tho' in misfortunes, were also the daughters of persons
+whose birth and fortune might have done honour to the service of the
+greatest empress in the world; nor were any of them wanting in those
+perfections which attract the heart beyond the pomp of blood or titles;
+but she who had influenced that of our Horatio, was likewise in the
+opinion of those, who felt not her charms in the same degree he did,
+allowed to excel her fair companions in every captivating grace, and to
+yield in beauty to none but the princess herself, who was esteemed a
+Prodigy. This amiable lady was called Charlotta de Palfoy, only daughter
+to the baron of that name; and having from her most early years
+discovered a genius above what is ordinarily found in her sex, had been
+educated by her indulgent parents in such a manner, as nature left
+nothing for want of the improvements of art; yet did not all the
+accomplishments, she was mistress of give her the least air of
+haughtiness; on the contrary, there was a certain sweetness of temper in
+her which gave a double charm to every thing she said or did: she was
+all affability, courtesy and chearfulness; she could not therefore avoid
+treating so agreeable a stranger as Horatio with all imaginable marks of
+civility; but she had been a very small time acquainted with him before
+her liking ripened into a kind of tenderness little inferior to what he
+was possessed of for her; and tho' both were then too young to be able
+to judge of the nature of this growing inclination, yet they found they
+loved without knowing to what end.
+
+As both the Chevalier St. George and the princess his sister were
+instructed in the English language, and besides many of their court were
+natives of Great Britain, whose loyalty had made them follow the exil'd
+monarch, the French belonging to them had also an ambition to speak in
+the same dialect: mademoiselle Charlotta being but lately come among
+them had not yet attained the proper accent, any more than Horatio had
+that of the French; so they agreed that to improve each other in the
+different languages, he should always speak to her in French, and she
+should answer him in English. This succeeded not only for the purpose it
+was intended, but likewise drew on a greater intimacy between them than
+might otherwise have happened, at least in so short a time.
+
+The baron having a real friendship for Horatio, rejoiced to find he had
+so powerful an attachment to continue among them, and without taking any
+notice how far he saw into his sentiments, encouraged his visits at St.
+Germains all he could. Thus indulged in every thing he wished, he began
+insensibly to lose all desires of returning to England, and receiving no
+letters either from Dorilaus or his sister, was as it were weaned from
+that affection he had formerly bore to them, and in the room of that the
+new friendships he was every day contracting took up his mind.
+
+He was indeed used with so much love and respect by people in the most
+eminent stations, to whom the baron had introduced him, that it would
+have been ungrateful in him not to have returned it with the greatest
+good-will. Expressing one day some surprize at being so far forgotten by
+his friends in England, de la Valiere told him that he would not have
+him look on himself as any other than a guest in France, and that if he
+chose to quit that country, he should not only be at his liberty to
+return to England whenever he pleased, but also should be furnished with
+a sum sufficient for the expences of his journey; but added, that the
+offer he now made of depriving himself of so agreeable a companion was a
+piece of self-denial, than which there could not be a greater proof of a
+disinterested regard.
+
+Horatio replied in the manner this generosity demanded, and said, that
+if there was any thing irksome to him in France, it was only his
+inability of returning the favours he had received: believe me, sir,
+pursued he, were I master of a fortune sufficient to put me above the
+necessity of receiving the obligations I now do, it would not be in the
+power of all I left in England to prevail on me to return;--it is here,
+and in the society of that company I at present, thro' your means,
+enjoy, that I would wish to pass my whole life.
+
+The baron then told him he would find a way to make all things easy to
+him, and accordingly went the same day to monsieur the prince of Conti,
+to whom he gave such an advantageous description of the courage and
+accomplishments of the English cornet, and the inclination he had to
+stay among them, that his highness told the baron, that he might
+acquaint him from him, that if he were willing to serve under him he
+should have a commission; or, if he rather chose a civil employment, he
+would use his interest to procure him such a one as might afford both
+honour and profit.
+
+This the baron did not fail to communicate immediately to Horatio, who,
+charm'd with the generosity both of the one and the other, broke out
+into the utmost encomiums of that nation:--sure, said he, the French are
+a people born to inspire and instruct virtue and benevolence to all the
+kingdoms in the world! After the first raptures of his gratitude were
+over, being pressed by the baron to let him know which of the prince's
+offers he would chuse to accept; alas! replied he, this is a kind of an
+unfortunate dilemma I am in;--my inclinations are for the army, and it
+would be the height of my ambition to serve under such generals as the
+French; but it would be unnatural in me to draw my sword against the
+land which gave me being: O would to God! continued he, there were an
+opportunity for me to do it in any other cause! how gladly would I leave
+the best part of my blood to shew the sense I have of the generosity I
+have experienced.
+
+The baron had nothing to offer in opposition to a sentiment which he
+found had so much of honour in it, and therefore acquainted the prince
+that he chose to accept of his highness's favour in a civil employment;
+on which he was ordered to attend his levee the next day.
+
+His good friend accompanied him, and having presented him with the forms
+usual on such occasions, the prince received him very graciously, and
+was pleased to ask him several questions concerning the government of
+England at that time, the battle in which he had been taken, and many
+other things, to all which the young Horatio answered with so much
+discretion and politeness, as made the prince say to the baron, you have
+not flattered this gentleman in your description of him; for tho' I
+believe your friendship ready enough to give a just idea of him, yet, I
+allure you, his own behaviour is his best recommendation, and well
+entitles him to more than I find it in my power to do for him at
+present. I have been thinking for you, sir, continued he, turning to
+Horatio, and imagine that the employment I have found you will not be
+disagreeable to you:--one of the gentlemen of the bed-chamber to the
+Chevalier St. George being dead, there is a vacancy, which I will make
+interest shall be filled by no other than yourself;--you seem to be much
+of the same age with him, and I dare say he will be extremely pleased in
+the choice I make of you to be near him:--it is not indeed, added he, a
+place of so much advantage as I could wish, but there is a handsome
+pension annexed to it, which, with the honour, will, I believe, content
+you till something better presents itself.
+
+From the first mention the prince made of the post he had found for him,
+the heart of Horatio leap'd in his breast with an agitation he had never
+felt before: the thoughts of living at St. Germains in the same palace
+with mademoiselle Charlotta so transported him, that he scarce knew what
+he said; and the thanks he gave the prince were expressed with such
+hyperboles of gratitude, as made his highness think he had a higher idea
+of the employment than it indeed deserved; but the baron who knew the
+motive, and could not help smiling within himself, to prevent any other
+from suspecting it, however, told the prince, that it was not to be
+wondered at that he testified so high a satisfaction, since he was now
+to serve a family he had by nature a strong attachment to, and at the
+same time continue in a country he liked much better than his own.
+
+Horatio by this time having a little recovered himself, and sensible he
+had gone rather too far, seconded what the baron had said, and no more
+observations were made on it.
+
+That same evening, the prince having made it his request, was Horatio
+permitted to kiss the hand of the Chevalier St. George, and the ensuing
+day took possession of the apartment appropriated to the office
+bestowed on him.
+
+After having received the congratulations of a whole court, who
+testified a great deal of satisfaction in having him among them, and
+paid his compliments in a particular manner to mademoiselle Charlotta,
+he took abundance of pleasure in viewing all the apartments of a palace
+famous for the birth of one of the greatest monarchs of the age, and for
+being the asylum of the distrest royal family of England: when his
+attendance on his master gave him leisure, he frequently passed many
+hours together in a closet, where he was told the late king James used
+to retire every day to pray for the prosperity of that people who had
+abjur'd him. Young as Horatio was, and gay by nature, he sometimes loved
+to indulge the most serious meditations; and this place, as well as the
+condition of those he served, remonstrating to him the instability of
+all human greatness, he made this general reflection, that there was
+nothing truly valuable but virtue, because the owner could be deprived
+of that only by himself, and not by either the fraud or force of others.
+
+Indeed the behaviour of all the persons who composed this court could
+not but inspire those who saw it with sentiments of the nature I have
+described: the queen herself, tho' of too great a soul to shew any marks
+of repining at her fate, was never seen to smile: even the Chevalier St.
+George and princess had both of them a very serious air, which denoted
+they had reflections more befitting their condition than their years;
+and those about them being most of them persons who had left the
+greatest part of their fortunes as well as kindred either in England,
+Scotland or Ireland, had their own misfortunes as well as that of the
+royal cause to lament, and therefore could not but wear a dejection in
+their countenances: in fine, every thing he saw seem'd an emblem of
+fallen majesty, except on drawing-room nights, and then indeed the
+splendor of Marli and Versailles shone forth at St. Germains in the
+persons of those who came to pay their compliments, among whom were not
+only the Dauphine and all the princes of the blood, but even the grand
+monarch himself thought it not beneath his dignity to give this proof of
+his respect once or twice every week.
+
+This way of living, and the company he was now associated with, gave
+Horatio a manly way of thinking much sooner than otherwise perhaps he
+might have had, yet did not rob him of his vivacity: some of the queen's
+women, and the young ladies about the princess, particularly
+mademoiselle Charlotta, had a thousand sprightly entertainments among
+themselves, into which he, the baron de la Valiere, and some others who
+had attachments at that court, were always admitted.
+
+But now the time arrived in which he was to lose the society of that
+valuable friend; the campaign was ready to open, and he was obliged to
+head his troops and follow the marshals de Villars and Marsin
+into Flanders.
+
+All the conversation turning now on war, those martial inclinations,
+which love and the season of the year had occasioned to lye dormant for
+a while in the bosom of Horatio, now revived in him: he embraced the
+baron at taking leave of him with tears of affection and regret: how
+cruel is my fate, said he, to make me of a nation at enmity with yours,
+and that I can neither fight for you nor against you!
+
+Well, my dear Horatio, replied the other, France may hereafter have
+occasion to employ your arm where there are no ties of duty to restrain
+you:--in the mean time, continued he with a smile, softer engagements
+may employ your thoughts;--mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy is a
+conquest worth pursuing.
+
+This was the first hint the baron had ever given him of the discovery he
+had made of his sentiments, and it so much the more surprized him that
+he was told by another what he was not certain of himself:--he knew
+indeed the society of that young lady gave him infinite satisfaction,
+and that he was restless when absent from her; but these words, and the
+air with which they were spoke, shewed him more of his own heart than he
+had before examined into;--he blush'd excessively, and made no answer;
+on which, you have no cause, resumed the baron, to be asham'd of the
+passion you are inspired with, nor troubled at my discovery of it:--I
+assure you I have seen it a long time; and tho' you never honoured me
+with your confidence in that point, have taken all opportunities of
+doing justice to your merit in the conversations I have had with
+mademoiselle, who I had the satisfaction to find was not displeased with
+what I said upon that head; and I flatter myself with having a good
+account of the progress you have made at my return.
+
+I have too much experience of your friendship and goodness to me,
+replied Horatio, not to assure myself of your doing me all manner of
+kind offices;--I have indeed so great a regard for that lady you
+mention, that I know none of her sex who I so much wish should think
+well of me, yet is she utterly ignorant of the sentiments I have for
+her; and if I am possessed of that passion which they call love, which I
+protest I am not certain of myself, I have never made the least
+declaration that can give her room to imagine any such thing.
+
+The baron laughed heartily to hear him speak in this manner, and then
+told him there was no need of words to make known an inclination of that
+kind;--it was to be seen in every look and motion of the person inspired
+with it.--Mademoiselle de Palfoy, continued he, young as she is, I dare
+answer has penetration enough to see the conquest she has made, but has
+not yet learned artifice enough to conceal that she is at the same time
+subdued herself;--and if you would take the advice of a person who has
+some experience in these affairs, you will endeavour to engage her to a
+confession before too much observation on the behaviour of others to
+their lovers, shall teach her those imperious airs by which women
+frequently torment the heart that adores them, tho' their own perhaps in
+doing so feels an equal share.
+
+Horatio, who had seen something like this between the baron and his
+mistress, found a great deal of reason in what he said, and promised to
+be guided by him, especially as he had encouragement enough to hope, by
+all the treatment he had found from Charlotta, that a declaration of
+love from him would not offend her beyond forgiveness.
+
+From that time forward he therefore began to think in what manner he
+should first disclose the tender secret to the dear object of his
+affections: when absent from her he easily found words, but when
+present, that awe which is inseparable from a real passion struck him
+entirely dumb; and whenever he was about to open his mouth to utter what
+he intended, he had neither words nor voice; and tho' he saw her every
+day, was often alone with her, and had opportunity enough to have
+revealed himself, yet could he not get the better of his timidity for a
+great while, and perhaps should have been much longer under this cruel
+constraint, had not an accident favoured his wishes beyond what he could
+have hoped, or even imagined, and by shewing him part of what passed in
+her soul, emboldened him to unfold what his own laboured with on
+her account.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VI.
+
+_Describes the masquerade at the dutchess of Main's; the characters and
+intrigues of several persons of quality who were there; the odd
+behaviour of a lady in regard to Horatio, and Charlotta's
+sentiments upon it_.
+
+The dutchess of Main was one of the gayest and most gallant ladies at
+the court of Lewis XIV. she was for ever entertaining the nobility with
+balls, masquerades, or concerts; and as she was of the blood royal, and
+highly respected not only on that score, but by the distinguish'd favour
+of the king, the Chevalier St. George, and the princess his sister,
+frequently honoured her assemblies with their presence.
+
+To divert those ladies whose husbands were gone to Flanders, as she
+said, she now proposed a masquerade; and the day being fixed, it was the
+sole business of the young and gay to prepare habits such as were most
+suitable to their inclinations, or, as they thought, would be most
+advantageous to their persons.
+
+The Chevalier St. George was dressed in a rich Grecian habit of
+sky-coloured velvet embroidered with large silver stars: the top of his
+cap was encompassed with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, saphirs, amythists,
+and other precious stones of various colours, set in rows in the exact
+form of a rainbow: a light robe of crimson taffaty, fringed with silver,
+was fastened by a knot of jewels on his left shoulder, and crossed his
+back to the right side, where it was tucked into a belt of the finest
+oriental pearls, and thence hung down and trail'd a little on the
+ground: in fine, there was nothing that exceeded the magnificence and
+eloquence of his appearance, or was in any measure equal to it in the
+whole assembly, except that of the princess Louisa his sister.
+
+She would needs go as a Diana, and obliged all her ladies to be habited
+like nymphs: no idea of this goddess, inspired either by the painter or
+the poet's art, can in any degree come up to that which the fight of
+this amiable princess gave every beholder. Conformable to the character
+she assumed, she had a large crescent of diamonds on her head, which had
+no other covering than a great quantity of the finest hair in the world,
+partly braided with pearls and emeralds, and partly flowing in ringlets
+down on her alabaster neck: her garments were silver tissue, white and
+shining as the moon on a clear frosty night; and being buttoned up a
+little at the bottom as for the conveniency of the chace, shewed great
+part of her fine proportioned ankle. In her hand she held an ivory bow,
+and an arrow of the same headed with gold; and on her shoulder was fixed
+a quiver curiously wrought and beset with jewels: her attendants, which
+were six in number, had their habits green, but made in the same fashion
+of the princess's, with bows and arrows in their hands, and quivers at
+their backs: all of them had their hair turned up under a caul of silver
+net, from which hung little tossels of pearl intermixed with diamonds.
+
+Next to this fair troop the duchess of Main herself attracted the
+attention of the assembly: she was habited like an Indian queen, with
+robes composed of feathers so artfully placed, that they represented a
+thousand different kind of birds and beasts, which, as she moved, seemed
+to have motion in themselves: on her head she had a lofty plume
+supported by a cap, and richly ornamented with precious stones; as were
+all her garments wherever the propriety of the fashion of them would
+give leave.
+
+The young mademoiselle de Bourbon, in the habit of a sea-nymph, and
+mademoiselle de Blois, in that of a Minerva, ornamented and decorated
+according to their several characters, had also their share of
+admiration.
+
+Nor did the marchionesses of Vallois and Lucerne, both in the garb of
+shepherdesses, serve as mere foils to those I have mentioned: there was
+something; even in this plainness that shewed the elegance of the
+wearer's taste.
+
+The prince of Conde, the dukes of Berry, Vendosine and Chartres, the
+young marquis de Montbausine, the counts de Chenille, de Ranbeau, and
+the baron de Roche, had all of them habits extremely rich and well
+fancied, as were many others of whom it would be too tedious to make
+particular mention, and be likewise digressive to the matter I take upon
+me to relate; I shall therefore only say, that there was not one person
+of either sex, who did not endeavour to set themselves forth to all
+possible advantage.
+
+Those gentlemen who attended the Chevalier St. George were at their
+liberty to appear in what habit they pleased: Horatio knowing his
+charming Charlotta was a nymph of the forest, chose to be a hunter, and
+was accordingly dressed in green, with a little cap on his head and a
+javelin in his hand, as Acteon is generally portrayed; and indeed had he
+studied what garb would have become him best, he could not have fixed on
+one more proper for that purpose.
+
+Fine madamoiselle de Sanserre at least thought him more worthy her
+regard than any of those, the richness of whose habits made her know
+were of a higher rank:--she took particular notice of him, made him
+dance with her, and said a thousand gallant things to him; but he could
+very well have dispensed with hearing them, and found little
+satisfaction in any thing that deprived him of entertaining his dear
+Charlotta, who he easily knew by her air and shape from all those who
+were habited in the same manner. As he doubted not, however, but the
+person who had thus singled him out was a lady of condition, he returned
+her civilities with a politeness which was natural to him, but which had
+received great improvements since his arrival in France. She was no less
+charm'd with his conversation than she had been with his person, and
+impatient to know who he was, made an offer of shewing him her face on
+condition he would pluck off his mask at the same time: but this he
+would by no means agree to, because still hoping to get rid of her, and
+have some discourse with mademoiselle Charlotta, he did not think proper
+he should be known by any other, who might perhaps make remarks on his
+behaviour; and therefore excused himself from complying with her desires
+in terms as obliging as the circumstance would admit.
+
+As she had displayed all her talents of wit and eloquence to engage him,
+she looked on the little curiosity she had been able to inspire in him
+as an affront, and vexed she had thrown away so much time on an
+insensible, as she called him, flung hastily away, and joining with some
+other company, left him at liberty to pursue his inclinations.
+
+This lady had been a royal mistress, but not having the good fortune to
+be made a mother, was not honoured with any title; her being forsaken by
+the king, who indeed had few amours of any long continuance, did not in
+the least abate the good opinion she had of her beauty; and to fee
+herself followed by a train of lovers being the supreme pleasure of her
+life, she spared nothing to attract and engage: whenever she failed in
+this expectation it was a severe mortification; but her vanity and the
+gaity of her humour would not suffer it to prey upon her spirits for
+above a minute, and she diverted the shock of a rebuff in one place by
+new attempts to conquer in another; therefore it is probable thought no
+more of Horatio after she had turned from him.
+
+He now carefully avoided all that might interrupt his wishes, and seeing
+Charlotta had just broke off some conversation she had been entertained
+with, made what haste he could to prevent her from being
+re-engaged:--She immediately knew him; and as their mutual innocence
+made them perfectly free in expressing themselves to each other, she
+told him she was glad he was come; that they would keep together the
+whole masquerade, provided he did not think it a confinement, to prevent
+her being persecuted with the impertinencies of some people there, who
+she found thought a masque a kind of sanction for saying any thing.
+
+It is not to be doubted but Horatio gave her all the assurances that
+words could form, of feeling the most perfect pleasure in her society,
+and that he should not; without the extremest reluctance, find himself
+obliged to abandon the happiness she offered him to any other person in
+the company: to recompence this complaisance, as she called it, she gave
+him a brief detail of the characters of as many as she knew thro' their
+habits; and in doing this discovered a sweet impartiality and love of
+truth, which was no small addition to her other charms. She blamed the
+baroness de Guiche for not being able to return the affection of a
+husband who had married her with an inconsiderable fortune, and had
+since she had been his wife pardoned a thousand miscarriages in her
+conduct:--she praised the virtue of mademoiselle de Mareau, who being at
+fifteen the bride of a man of seventy, behaved to him with a tenderness,
+and exact conformity to his will, which, if owing alone to duty, was not
+to be distinguished from inclination:--she expressed a concern that the
+gaity of the dutchess of Vendome gave the world any room for censure,
+and highly condemned the duke for being guilty of actions which had made
+her sometimes give into parties of pleasure by way of retaliation:--but
+she was more severe on the indecorum of mademoiselle de Renville, who
+being known for the mistress of the duke of Chartres, and that she was
+supported by him, was fond of appearing in all public places. She could
+not help testifying a good deal of surprize, that any woman who
+pretended to virtue would admit her into their assemblies: not but she
+said the case of that lady was greatly to be pitied, who being high-born
+and bred had been reduced to the lowest exigencies of life, and from
+which to be relieved she had only consented to assist the looser
+pleasures of the amorous duke; but, added she, I would not methinks have
+her seem to glory in her shame, and in a manner of life which her
+misfortunes alone can render excusable; nor can I approve of the
+indulgence her mistaken triumph meets with, because it may not only
+destroy all notions of regret in herself for what her necessities oblige
+her to, but also make others, who have not the same pretence, find a
+kind of sanction for their own errors:--vice, said she, ought at lead to
+blush, and hide itself as much as possible from view, left by being
+tolerated in public it should become a fashion.
+
+Horatio was so much taken up with admiring the justness of her
+sentiments, that awed by them, as it were, he could not yet, tho'
+mask'd, make any discovery of his own: she was about entering into a
+discourse with him concerning the first motives which had rendered some
+persons she pointed out to him unhappy in the marriage-state, which
+perhaps might have given him an opportunity for explaining himself, when
+a lady richly dress'd came up to them, and giving Horatio a sudden pluck
+by the arm; villain! cried she. Madam, returned he, strongly amazed. Is
+the trifling conversation of Sanserre, resumed she, or this little
+creature to be preferred to a woman of that quality you have dared to
+abuse?--but this night has convinced her of your perfidy:--she sends you
+this, continued she, giving him a slap over the face as hard as she
+could, and be assured it is the last present you will ever receive
+from her.
+
+She had no sooner uttered these words than she flew quick as lightning
+out of the room, leaving Horatio in such a consternation both at what
+she said and did, as deprived him even of the thought of following her,
+or using any means to solve this riddle.--He was in a deep musing when
+mademoiselle Charlotta, possessed that moment with a passion she till
+then was ignorant of, said to him; I find, Horatio, you have wonderfully
+improved the little time you have been in France, to gain you a
+multiplicity of mistresses; but I am sorry my inadvertency in talking to
+a man so doubly pre-engaged, should cause me to be reckoned among the
+number. In speaking this she turned away with a confusion which was
+visible in her air, and the scarlet colour with which her neck was dyed.
+By heaven! cried he, in the utmost agitation, I know so little the
+meaning of what I have just now heard, that it seems rather a dream than
+a reality. O the deceiver! returned she, a little slackening her pace,
+will you pretend to have given no occasion for the reproach you have
+received:--great must have been your professions to draw on you a
+resentment such as I have been witness of;--but I shall take care to
+give the lady, whoever she is, no farther room for jealousy on my
+account; and as for mademoiselle Sanserre, I believe the stock of
+reputation she has will not suffer much from the addition of one more
+favourite to the number the world has already given her.
+
+The oddness of this adventure, and the vexation he was in to find
+Charlotta seemed incensed against him for a crime of which he knew
+himself so perfectly innocent, destroyed at once all the considerations
+his timidity had inspired, and aiming only to be cleared in her
+opinion;--if there be faith in man, cried he, I know nothing of what I
+am accused: no woman but your charming self ever had the power to give
+me an uneasy moment;--it is you alone have taught me what it is to love,
+and as I never felt, I never pretended to that passion for any other.
+
+Me! replied Charlotta, extremely confused; If it were so, you take a
+strange time and method to declare it in;--but I know of no concern I
+have in your amours, your gratitude, or your perfidy; and you had better
+follow and endeavour to appease your enraged mistress, than lose your
+time on me in vain excuses.
+
+Ah mademoiselle! cried he, how unjust and cruel are you, and how severe
+my fate, which not content with the despair my real unworthiness of
+adoring you has plunged me in, but also adds to it an imputation of
+crimes my soul most detests:--I never heard even the name of the lady
+you mentioned till your lips pronounced it; and if it be she I danced
+with, I protest I never saw her face: and as for the meaning of the
+other lady's treatment of me, it must certainly be occasioned by some
+mistake, having offered nothing to any of the sex that could justify
+such a proceeding.
+
+All the time he was speaking Charlotta was endeavouring to compose
+herself.--The hurry of spirits she had been in at the apprehensions of
+Horatio's having any amorous engagements, shewing her how much interest
+she took in him, made her blush at having discovered herself to him so
+far; and tho' she could not be any more tranquil, yet she thought she
+would for the future be more prudent; to this end she now affected to
+laugh at the dilemma into which she told him he had brought himself, by
+making addresses in two places at the same time, and advised him in a
+gay manner to be more circumspect.
+
+Thus was this beautiful lady, by her jealousy, convinced of her
+sensibility; and as difficult as Horatio found it to remove the one, he
+found his consolation in the discovery of the other.
+
+From the time he had been disengaged from mademoiselle Sanferre, he had
+retired with Charlotta to one corner of the room; and the greatest part
+of the company being in a grand dance, the others were taken up in
+looking on them, so that our young lovers had the opportunity of talking
+to each other without being taken much notice of; but several of the
+masquers now drawing nearer that way, prevented Horatio from saying any
+thing farther at that time, either to clear his innocence or prosecute
+his passion; and Charlotta, glad to avoid all discourse on a subject she
+thought herself but ill prepared to answer, joined some ladies, with
+whom she stayed till the ball was near concluded.
+
+Horatio after this withdrew to a window, and flickered behind a large
+damask curtain, threw himself on a sopha he found there, and ruminated
+at full on the adventure had happened to him, in which he found a
+mixture of joy and discontent: the behaviour of Charlotta assured him he
+was not indifferent to her; but then the thoughts that he appeared in
+her eyes as ungrateful, inconstant and perfidious, made him tremble,
+left the idea of what he seemed to be should utterly erase that
+favourable one she had entertained of what he truly was. By what means
+he should prove his sincerity he knew not; and as he was utterly
+unpracticed in the affairs of love, lamented the absence of his good
+friend the baron de la Valiere, who he thought might have been, able to
+give him same advice, how to proceed.
+
+He remained buried, as it were, in these cogitations, when a lady
+plucked back the curtain which screen'd him, and without seeing any one
+was there, threw herself on the sopha almost in his lap.--Oh heaven!
+cried she, perceiving what she had done, and immediately rose; but
+Horatio starting up, would not suffer her to quit the place, telling
+her, that since she chose it, it was his business to retire, and leave
+her to indulge whatever meditations had brought her thither. She thank'd
+him in a voice which, by its trembling, testified her mind was in some
+very great disorder; and added, if your good nature, said she, be equal
+to your complaisance, you will do me the favour to desire a lady,
+dressed in pink and silver, with a white sattin scarf cross her
+shoulder, to come here directly:--you cannot, continued she, be mistaken
+in the person, because there is no other in the same habit. Tho' Horatio
+was very loth to engage himself in the lady's affairs, fearing to give a
+second umbrage to mademoiselle Charlotta, yet he knew not how to excuse
+granting so small a request, and therefore assured her of his
+compliance.
+
+Accordingly he sent his eyes in quest, which soon pointed out to him the
+person whom she had described: having delivered his message to her;
+Horatio! cried she, somewhat astonished, how came you employed in this
+errand? he knew her voice, and that it was mademoiselle de Coigney, the
+mistress of his friend the baron, on which he immediately told her how
+the lady had surprized him: she laughed heartily, and said no more but
+left him, and went to the window he had directed.
+
+For a long time he sought in vain for an opportunity of speaking to the
+object of his affections: she was still engaged either in dancing or in
+different parties; and as his eyes continually followed her, he easily
+perceived she purposely avoided him. A magnificent collation being
+prepared in a great drawing-room next to that in which the company were,
+they all went in to partake of it. The entertainment was served up on
+two large tables; but as every one was mask'd, and the vizards so
+contriv'd, that those who wore them could eat without plucking them off,
+they sat down promiscuously without ceremony or any distinction of
+degrees, none being obliged to know another in these disguises; only the
+attendants of the Chevalier St. George, and the princess Louisa, took
+care not to place themselves at the same they were, so by this means sat
+together; but a great number of others being mingled with them, no
+particular conversation could be expected.
+
+Supper being over, they all returned to the ballroom; and Horatio having
+contrived it so as to get next Charlotta, she could not refuse the offer
+he made her of his hand to lead her in; but as he was about saying
+something to her in a low voice, a man came hastily to him, and taking
+him a little on one side, presented him with a letter, and then retired
+with so much precipitation, that Horatio could neither ask from whom it
+came, nor well discern what sort of person it was that gave it him. He
+put it however in his pocket, designing to read it at more leisure, his
+curiosity for the contents not equalling his desire of entertaining
+mademoiselle Charlotta; but that young lady, whose jealousy received new
+fewel from this object, had slipt away before he could turn from the
+man, and had already mixed with a cluster of both sexes who had got into
+the room before them.
+
+Horatio finding all attempts to speak to her that night would be
+ineffectual, went back into the drawing-room where they supped, and
+where but few people remaining he might examine the letter with more
+freedom. He saw it had no superscription; but supposing the inside would
+give him some satisfaction, he broke it open hastily and found in it
+these lines.
+
+
+'Whether false or faithful still are you dear to
+me; and if I am in the least so to you,
+the treatment you received will be pardoned for
+the sake of the occasion:--I own that at a
+place where you might have been as particular as
+you pleased with me without suspicion, it enraged
+me to see you waste those precious moments
+with others which I flattered myself to have solely
+engrossed;--besides, the character of mademoiselle
+Sanserre is so well known, that I thought
+you would have avoided her of all others; yet
+had she forced herself upon you, sure you might
+afterwards have come to me, when I had given
+you so particular a description of the habit I
+should wear; but instead of making any excuse
+for a first transgression, you hurry to a second,
+and pay all your devoirs to another, whom indeed
+I knew not at that time, but am since informed
+she is one of the maids of honour to princess
+Louisa.--I must confess I had not resolution
+enough to suffer so cruel an injustice, and being
+too much overcome by my passion to resent it as
+I ought, I left the place, and desired our friend to
+do it for me.--I find she somewhat exceeded
+her commission, but you must forgive her, since
+it was her love for me:--I am now at her
+house, where I impatiently expect you--The
+baron is secure for some hours;--those we may
+pass together, if you still think there is any thing
+worth quitting the masquerade for, to be found
+in the arms of
+
+_Yours_, &c,
+
+_P.S._ If you now fail, no excuse hereafter shall
+ever plead your pardon.'
+
+
+This letter confirmed Horatio in the belief he had before, that he had
+been mistaken by the lady for some favorite person; but who the lady
+was, he was as much in the dark as ever; nor would he have given himself
+any trouble concerning it, if he had not hoped by that means to have
+retrieved the good opinion of Charlotta. He was however impatient to
+shew her the letter, as he doubted not but she had seen it delivered to
+him; but with all his assiduity he could not obtain one word in private
+during the masquerade; and when it was broke up, which was not till near
+morning, and they returned to St. Germains, it was impossible, because
+he knew she must be in the princess's chamber, as he in that of the
+Chevalier St. George: he was therefore obliged to content himself with
+the hope that the next day would be more favourable.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VII.
+
+_An explanation of the foregoing adventure, with a continuation of the
+intrigues of some French ladies, and the policy of mademoiselle Coigney
+in regard of her brother_.
+
+It cannot be supposed that either of our young lovers enjoyed much true
+repose that night, tho' the fatigue of the dance might naturally require
+it: the one did but just know herself a lover before she felt the worst
+torments of that passion in her jealousy; and the other having been
+compelled, as it were, to lay open his heart in order to convince his
+charmer it had no object but herself in view, knew not but his temerity
+in doing so might be imputed to him as no less a crime than that from
+which he attempted to be cleared: each had their different anxieties;
+but those of Horatio were the least severe, because thro' all the
+indignation of his mistress he saw marks of an affection, which he could
+not have flattered himself with if they had not been evident; and
+conscious of his innocence, doubted not but time would both explain that
+and reconcile the offended fair:--whereas Charlotta was far from being
+able to assure herself of her lover's fidelity: she could not conceive
+how, in the compass of one night, such a plurality of mistakes should
+happen to the same man, and trembled at the reflection that this man,
+who possibly was the falsest of his sex, should not only have made an
+impression on her heart, but also, by the concern she had so unwarily
+expressed, have reason to triumph in his conquest:--ashamed therefore of
+what she felt, and determined to make use of her utmost efforts to
+conceal it for the future, if not to conquer it, she thought to shun all
+occasions of seeing or speaking to this dangerous invader of her peace
+was the first step she ought to take; but how little is a heart,
+possessed of the passion her's was, capable of judging for itself, or
+maintaining any resolutions in prejudice of the darling object!--she had
+no sooner set it down as a rule to avoid him, than she began to wish for
+his presence, and contented herself with thinking she desired it only
+out of curiosity to hear what he would say, and to have an opportunity,
+by a rallying manner of behaviour, to destroy whatever conjectures he
+might have form'd in favour of his passion; but all this time she
+deceived herself, and in reality only longed for an interview with him,
+in hopes he would find means to justify himself. Horatio, who was
+impatient to attempt it, seeing her at a distance walking on the terrass
+with no other company than mademoiselle de Coigney, went immediately to
+join them, thinking that if the presence of this lady might be a bar to
+many things he wanted to say to Charlotta, it would be of service to him
+another way, by preventing her from making him any reproaches.
+
+As soon as he came near, I owe you little thanks, Horatio, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney laughing, for the interruption you gave me last
+night. In the multiplicity of those reflections which his own affairs
+had occasioned him, he had entirely forgot the lady in the window; and
+imagining some other accident had happened which should make him appear
+yet more guilty in the eyes of Charlotta, ask'd her, with some
+impatience, what she meant? don't you remember, answered she, that you
+brought me a message from a certain lady? Yes, madam, said he, and in
+that, thought I did no more than my duty obliged me to, as she seemed
+under some perplexity, which I supposed she was impatient to
+acquaint you with.
+
+You judged rightly, indeed, resumed de Coigney; but had you known how
+gladly I would have dispensed with the honour of her confidence, I dare
+answer you would have spared it me:--I'll tell you, my dear, pursued she
+turning to Charlotta, for the secrets of this lady are pretty universal;
+and I am certain that I have heard from no less than fifty different
+persons, that very affair she was in such a hurry to inform me of last
+night: you must needs have heard of the amour between madam la Boissy
+and the chevalier de Mourenbeau? frequently, replied Charlotta; her
+ridiculous jealousies of him have long been the jest of the whole court;
+and I never go to Marli or Versailles, but I am told of some new
+instance of it. And yet to relate a long story of her passion, and his
+ingratitude, said mademoiselle de Coigney, was I last night dragged into
+a dark corner, and deprived for an hour together of all the pleasures of
+the masquerade: it seems she had over-heard some gallant things between
+him and the daughter of the count de Granpree, and that gave her the
+occasion of running into a recapitulation of all the professions of
+constancy he had made to herself, the proofs she had given him of a too
+easy belief, and the little regard he now paid to her peace of mind.--I
+was obliged to affect a pity for her misfortunes, and gratitude for the
+trust she reposed in me, tho' neither the one or the other merited in
+reality any thing but contempt.
+
+One often suffers a good deal from one's complaisance this way, said
+Charlotta; and for my part there is nothing I would more carefully avoid
+than secrets of this nature; but you have not told me how far Horatio
+was accessary to bringing you into this trouble.
+
+He them said that he would save mademoiselle de Coigney the labour, and
+immediately related how the lady they were speaking of threw herself
+upon him, and afterwards enjoined him to deliver the message. But, added
+he, I think last night was one of the most unfortunate ones I have ever
+known, since, with all the care I could take, I was continually
+prevented by other people's concerns from prosecuting my own.--I was not
+only insulted and reproached for being mistaken for some other person,
+for it could happen no other way, but also soon after received a letter
+no less mysterious to me than the blow, which doubtless came from the
+same quarter: as there is no name subscribed, or if there were, I should
+look on myself as under no obligation of secrecy, I will beg leave to
+communicate it to you, ladies.
+
+With these words he took the letter out of his pocket and held it open
+between them: Charlotta conquered her impatience so far as not to take
+it out of his hand; but mademoiselle Coigney snatched it hastily,
+imagining she knew the hand; nor was she deceived in her conjecture: she
+had no sooner read it slightly over;--see here, mademoiselle Charlotta,
+said she, a new proof of madam de Olonne's folly, and my brother's
+continued attachment to that vile woman.
+
+Charlotta then looked over the letter with a satisfaction that was
+visible in her countenance; and as soon as she had done, then it is
+plain, said she, that Horatio was mistaken for monsieur de Coigney: but
+how it happened so is what I cannot conceive.
+
+I can easily solve the riddle, replied mademoiselle de Coigney: I heard
+my brother say he intended to wear a hunting dress at the masquerade;
+but being disappointed of going to it, by his most christian majesty
+sending for him to Marli, I suppose too suddenly for him to give notice
+of his enforced absence to madame d' Olonne, and Horatio by chance
+appearing in the same habit which he had doubtless told her he would be
+in, and their sizes being pretty much alike, she might very well be
+deceived, and also have a seeming reason for the jealousy and rage her
+letter testifies.
+
+Nothing could exceed the joy Horatio felt at this unexpected
+eclaircisement of his innocence, which was also doubled by the pleasure
+which, in spight of all her endeavours to restrain it, he saw sparkle in
+the eyes of his beloved Charlotta. Neither of them, however, had any
+opportunity of expressing their sentiments at this time, de Coigney
+continuing with them till dinner, when they all separated to go to their
+respective tables.
+
+The next day afforded what in this he had sought in vain:--he found her
+alone in her own apartment; and having broke the ice, was now grown bold
+enough to declare his passion, with all the embellishments necessary to
+render it successful: mademoiselle Charlotta knew very well what became
+the decorum of her sex, and was too nice an observer of it not to behave
+with all the reserve imaginable on this occasion. All the freedom she
+had been accustomed to treat him with, while ignorant of his or her own
+inclination, was now banished from her words and actions, and she
+gravely told him, that if he were in earnest, it was utterly improper
+for her to receive any professions of that kind without the approbation
+of monsieur de Palfoy her father; and as there was but very little
+probability of his granting it, on many considerations, she would wish
+him to quell in its infancy an affection which might otherwise be
+attended with misfortunes to them both.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that in this she spoke no more than what her
+reason suggested: she knew very well that her father had much higher
+expectations in view for her, and that on the least suspicion of her
+entertaining a foreigner, and one who seemed to have no other dependance
+than that of favour, she should be immediately removed from St.
+Germains; so that it behoved her to be very circumspect in any
+encouragement she gave him: but tho' she spoke to him in this manner, it
+was not, as her actions afterwards fully demonstrated, that she really
+designed what she said should make him desist his pretensions, but that
+he should be careful how he let any one into the secret of his heart.
+She foresaw little prospect of their love ever being crown'd with
+success, yet found too much pleasure in indulging it to be able to wish
+an extinction of it, either in him or herself; and in spight of all the
+distance she assumed, he easily perceived that whatever difficulties he
+should have to struggle with in the prosecution of his addresses, they
+would not be owing to her cruelty. They were both of them too young to
+attend much to consequences; and as securing the affections of each
+other was what each equally aimed at, neither of them reflected how
+terrible a separation would be, and how great the likelihood that it
+must happen they knew not how soon.
+
+As the remonstrances of mademoiselle Charlotta had all the effect she
+intended them for on Horatio, he so well commanding himself that no
+person in the world, except the baron de la Valiere, who was absent, had
+the least intimation of his passion, they might probably have lived a
+long time together in the contentment they now enjoyed, had not an
+accident, of which neither of them could have any notion, put a stop
+to it.
+
+Horatio thought no more on the affair of madame de Olonne and monsieur
+de Coigney, from the time he had been cleared of having any concern with
+that lady, yet was that night's adventure productive of what he looked
+upon as the greatest misfortune could befal him. But to make this matter
+conspicuous to the reader, it is necessary to give a brief detail of the
+circumstances that led to it.
+
+This lady, who was wife to the baron de Olonne, was one of the most
+beautiful, and most vicious women in the kingdom; she entertained a
+great number of lovers; but there was none more attached to her, or more
+loved by her than young monsieur de Coigney: he had for a long time
+maintained a criminal correspondence with her, to the great trouble of
+all his friends, who endeavoured all they could, but in vain, to wean
+him from her: he had lately a recounter with one of her former lovers,
+which had like to have cost him his life; and it was with great
+difficulty, and as much as the relations on both sides could do, by
+representing to the king that they were set upon by street-robbers, that
+they avoided the punishment the law inflicts on duelists. De Coigney was
+but just recovered of the hurts he had received, when, so far from
+resolving to quit the occasion of them, he made an appointment to meet
+her at the masquerade:--they had described to each other the habit they
+intended to wear, when, as he was preparing for the rendezvous, an
+express came from the king, commanding his immediate attendance at
+Marli, where the court then was: this was occasioned by old monsieur de
+Coigney, who having, by some spies he kept about his son, received
+intelligence of this assignation, had no other way to disappoint it than
+by the royal authority, which he easily procured, as he was very much in
+favour with his majesty; and had laid the matter before him.
+
+The person who came with the mandate had orders not to quit the presence
+of young Coigney, but bring him directly; by which means he was deprived
+of all opportunity of sending his excuses to madame de Olonne, who
+coming to the masquerade big with expectation of seeing her favourite
+lover, and finding him, as she imagined, engaged with others, and wholly
+regardless of herself, was seized with the most violent jealousy; and
+not able to continue in a place where she had received so manifest a
+slight, desired mademoiselle de Freville, her confidant and companion,
+to upbraid him with his inconstancy; which request she complied with in
+the manner already related, and which gave mademoiselle Charlotta such
+matter of disquiet.
+
+The amorous madame de Olonne, however, having given vent to the first
+transports of her fury, could not hinder those of a softer nature from
+returning with the same violence as ever; and for the gratification of
+them wrote that letter which Horatio received, and occasioned afterward
+the explanation of the whole affair, which explanation he then thought
+fortunate for him; but by a whimsical effect of chance it proved utterly
+the reverse.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney, who had the most tender affection for her
+brother, and passionately wished to make him break off all engagements
+with a woman of madame de Olonne's character, and who might possibly
+bring him under many inconveniencies, took the hint which mademoiselle
+Charlotta unthinkingly gave, by telling her how she had been affronted
+on his account by de Freville, of putting something into his head which
+might probably succeed better than all the attempts had hitherto been
+practised to make him quit his present criminal amour.
+
+The first time she saw mademoiselle de Freville, she told her as a great
+secret that her brother was fallen in love with mademoiselle Charlotta,
+and that she believed it would be a match, for he had already engaged
+friends to sollicit monsieur de Palfoy on that score. This she knew would
+be carried directly to madame de Olonne, and doubted not but it would so
+increase her jealous rage, that all he could say in his defence would
+pass for nothing: she also added, that he was in the masquerade that
+night, tho' for some private reasons best known to himself, said she, he
+had ordered his people to give out he was gone to Marli.
+
+De Freville, who was the creature of madame de Olonne, no sooner
+received this intelligence than she flew with it to her, as mademoiselle
+de Coigney had imagined: neither did it fail of the desired effect. When
+he came to visit her, as he did on the moment of his return from Marli,
+the violence of her temper made her break out into such reproaches and
+exclamations, as a man had need be very much in love to endure: he
+endeavoured to make her sensible of her error by a thousand
+protestations; but the more he talk'd of Marli and the king's command,
+the more she told him of Charlotta and the masquerade; and almost
+distracted to find he still persisted in denying he was there, or had
+ever made any tender professions to that lady, she proceeded to such
+extravagancies as he, who knew himself innocent, could not forbear
+replying to in terms which were far from being softening:--in fine, they
+quarrelled to a very high degree, and some company happening to come in
+at the same time, hindered either of them from saying any thing which
+might palliate the resentment of the other.
+
+Before they had an opportunity of meeting again, mademoiselle de Coigney
+saw her brother; and artfully introducing some discourse of mademoiselle
+Charlotta de Palfoy, began to run into the utmost encomiums on that
+lady's beauty, virtue, wit, and sweetness of disposition, and at last
+added, that she should think herself happy in having her for a sister.
+Young de Coigney listened attentively to what she said: he had often
+been in her company, but being prepossessed with his passion for madame
+de Olonne, her charms had not that effect on him as now that the
+behaviour of the other had very much lessened his esteem of her.
+
+He replied, that he knew no lady more deserving than the person she
+mentioned, and should be glad if, by her interest, he might have
+permission to visit her: this was all mademoiselle de Coigney wanted;
+she doubted not but if he were once engaged in an honourable passion, it
+would entirely cure him of all regard for madame de Olonne, and as she
+knew he had a good share of understanding, thought that when he should
+come to a more near acquaintance with the perfections of Charlotta, the
+loose airs of the other would appear in their true colours, and become
+as odious to him as once they had been infatuating.
+
+Finding him so well inclined to her purpose, she took upon herself the
+care of introducing him, as it was indeed easy to do, considering the
+intimacy there was between her and Charlotta. That young lady received
+him as the brother of a person she extremely loved; and little
+suspecting the design on which he came, treated him with a gaity which
+heightened her charms, and at the same time flattered his hopes, that
+there was something in his person not disagreeable to her.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney took care that every visit he made to Charlotta
+should be reported to de Olonne, which still heightening her resentment,
+together with his little assiduity to moderate it, made a total breach
+between them, to the great satisfaction of all his friends in general.
+Those of them whom mademoiselle had acquainted with the stratagem by
+which she brought it about, praised her wit and address; and as they
+knew the family and fortune of mademoiselle Charlotta, encouraged her to
+do every thing in her power for turning that into reality which she at
+first had made use of only as a feint for the reclaiming of her brother.
+
+The young gentleman himself stood in need of no remonstrances of the
+advantages he might propose by a marriage with Charlotta; her beauty and
+the charms of her conversation had made a conquest of his heart far more
+complete than any prospect of interest could have done: not only de
+Olonne, but the whole sex would now in vain have endeavoured to attract
+the least regard from him, and as he was naturally vain, he thought
+nothing but Charlotta de Palfoy worthy of him.
+
+The success he had been accustomed to meet in his love affairs,
+emboldened him to declare himself much sooner than he would have done
+had he followed the advice of his sister, and too soon to be received in
+a manner agreeable to his wishes by a lady of Charlotta's modesty and
+delicacy, even had she not been prepossessed in favour of another; for
+tho' she respected him as the brother of her friend, that consideration
+was too weak to hinder her from letting him know how displeasing his
+pretensions were to her, and that if he persisted in them she should be
+obliged to refuse seeing him any more. He was now sensible of his error,
+and endeavoured to excuse it by the violence of his passion, which he
+said would not suffer him to conceal what he felt; but as, when a heart
+is truly devoted to one object, the sound of love from any other mouth
+is harsh and disagreeable; the more he aimed to vindicate himself in
+this point the more guilty he became, and all he said served only to
+increase her dislike.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney after this took upon her to intercede for her
+brother's passion, but with as ill success as he had done; and being one
+day more importunate than usual, mademoiselle Charlotta grew in so ill a
+humour, that she told her she was determined to give no encouragement to
+the amorous addresses of any man, unless commanded to do so by those who
+had the power of disposing her; but, added she, I would not have
+monsieur de Coigney make any efforts that way; for were he to gain the
+consent of my father, which I am far from believing he would do, I have
+so little inclination to give him those returns of affection he may
+expect, that in such a case I should venture being guilty of
+disobedience.
+
+Is there any thing so odious then, madam, in the person of my brother?
+said de Coigney with a tone that shewed how much she was picqued. I
+never gave myself the trouble of examining into the merits either of his
+person or behaviour, replied she; but to deal sincerely with you, I have
+a perfect aversion to the thoughts of changing my condition, and if you
+desire the friendship between us should subsist, you will never mention
+any thing of it to me;--and as to your brother, when I am convinced I
+shall receive no farther persecutions from him of the nature I have
+lately had, he may depend on my treating him with my former regard; till
+then, you will do me a favour, and him a service, to desire he would
+refrain his visits.
+
+These expressions may be thought little conformable to the natural
+politeness of the French, or to that sweetness of disposition which
+mademoiselle Charlotta testified on other occasions; but she found
+herself so incessantly pressed both by the brother and the sister, and
+that all the denials she had given in a different manner had been
+without effect, therefore was obliged to assume a harshness, which was
+far from being natural to her, in order to prevent consequences which
+she had too much reason to apprehend.
+
+Horatio soon discovered he had a rival in monsieur de Coigney; and tho'
+he easily saw by Charlotta's behaviour that he had nothing to fear on
+this score, yet the interruptions he received from the addresses of this
+new lover, made him little able to endure his presence, and he sometimes
+could not refrain himself from saying such things as, had not the other
+been too much buoyed up with his vanity to take them as meant to
+himself, must have occasioned a quarrel.
+
+She made use of all the power she had over him in order to curb the
+impetuosity of his temper whenever he met this disturber of his wishes;
+but his jealousy would frequently get the better of the respect he paid
+her, and they never were together in her apartment without filling her
+with mortal fears. She therefore found it absolutely necessary to get
+rid of an adorer she hated, in order to hinder one she loved from doing
+any thing which might deprive her of him; and tho' she had a real
+friendship for mademoiselle de Coigney, yet she chose rather to break
+with her, than run the hazard she was continually exposed to by her
+brother's indefatigable pursuit.
+
+But all her precaution was of no effect, as well as, the enforced
+patience of Horatio: what most she trembled at now fell upon her, and by
+a means she had least thought of. Madame de Olonne, full of malice at
+being forsaken by her lover, and soon informed by whose charms her
+misfortune was occasioned, got a person to represent to the baron de
+Palfoy the conquest his daughter had made in such terms, as made him
+imagine she encouraged his passion. Neither the character, family, or
+fortune of de Coigney being equal to what he thought Charlotta might
+deserve, made him very uneasy at this report; and as he looked on her
+not having acquainted him with his pretensions as an indication of her
+having an affection for him; he resolved to put a stop to the progress
+of it at once, which could be done no way so effectually as by removing
+her from St. Germains.
+
+To this end the careful Father came himself to that court, and waited on
+the princess: he told her highness, that being in an ill state of health
+and obliged to keep much at home, Charlotta must exchange the honour she
+enjoyed in her service, for the observance of her duty to a parent, who
+was now incapable of any other pleasures than her society.
+
+The princess, to whom she was extremely dear, could not think of parting
+with her without an extreme concern, but after the reasons he had given
+for desiring it, would offer nothing for detaining her, on which she was
+immediately called in, and made acquainted with this sudden alteration
+in her affairs.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VIII.
+
+_The parting of Horatio and mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains._
+
+A peal of thunder bursting over her head, could not have been more
+alarming to mademoiselle Charlotta than the news she now heard; but her
+father commanded, the princess had consented, and there was no remedy to
+be hoped: she took leave of her royal mistress with a shower of
+unfeigned tears, after which she retired to her apartment to prepare for
+quitting it, while the baron went to pay his compliments to some of the
+gentlemen at that court.
+
+To be removed in this sudden manner she could impute to no other motive
+than that the love of Horatio had by some accident been betrayed to her
+father, (for she never so much as thought of monsieur de Coigney;) and
+the thoughts of being separated from him was so dreadful, that till this
+fatal moment she knew not how dear he was to her:--to add to the
+calamity of her condition, he was that morning gone a hunting with the
+Chevalier St. George, and she had not even the opportunity of giving him
+the consolation of knowing she bore at least an equal part in the grief
+this unexpected accident must occasion. Mademoiselle de Coigney came to
+take leave of her, as did all the ladies of the queen's train as well as
+the princess's, and expressed the utmost concern for losing so agreeable
+a companion; but these ceremonies were tedious to her, and as she could
+not see Horatio, she dispatched every thing with as much expedition as
+her secret discontent would permit her to do, and then sent to let her
+father know she was ready to attend him.
+
+When they were in the coach both observed a profound silence for some
+time; at last, I hope Charlotta, said the baron, you have no
+extraordinary reasons to be troubled at leaving St. Germains? none, my
+lord, answered she, of so much moment to me as the fears my sudden
+removal is owing to your being dissatisfied with my conduct. I flatter
+myself, resumed he, you are conscious of nothing which should authorize
+such an apprehension:--you have had an education which ought to inform
+you that persons of your sex and age are never to act in any material
+point of themselves:--but courts are places where this lesson is seldom
+practised; and tho' the virtues of the English queen and princess are a
+shining example to all about them, yet I am of opinion that innocence is
+safest in retirement.
+
+As she was fully convinced in her mind that it was only owing to some
+jealousy of her behaviour that she had been taken from St. Germains, and
+also that it was on the score of Horatio, she would not enquire too
+deeply for fear of giving her father an opportunity of entering into
+examinations, which she thought she could not answer without either
+injuring the truth, or avowing what would not only have incensed him to
+a very great degree, but also put him upon measures which would destroy
+even the most distant hope of ever seeing Horatio more. He, on his side,
+would not acquaint her with the sentiments which the above-mentioned
+suggestions had inspired him with, thinking he should discover more of
+the truth by keeping a watchful eye over her behaviour without
+seeming to do so.
+
+During the time of their little journey from the palace of St. Germains
+to Paris, where monsieur the baron de Palfoy ordinarily resided, nothing
+farther was discoursed on: but when they arrived, and mademoiselle
+Charlotta had opportunity of reflecting on this sudden turn, she gave a
+loose to all the anxieties it occasioned:--she was not only snatch'd
+from the presence of what was most dear to her on earth, but as she had
+no confidante, nor durst make any, was also without any means either of
+conveying a letter to him, or receiving the least intelligence from him.
+
+She had been in Paris but a very little time before she perceived the
+baron artfully kept her in the most severe restraint under a shew of
+liberty; pretending to her, as he had done to the princess, that he was
+not well enough to go abroad, he would stay at home whole days together,
+and oblige her to read, or play to him on the spinnet, which frequently
+she did with an aking heart; and when she went out, it was always in
+company with a relation whom he kept at his house on purpose, as he
+said, as a companion to divert her, but in reality to be a spy over all
+her actions; and had orders to dive, by all the insinuations she was
+mistress of, into her very thoughts. All this mademoiselle Charlotta had
+penetration enough to discover, and, spite of the discontent she
+laboured under, so well concealed what they endeavoured to find out,
+that all the traps laid for her were wholly ineffectual.
+
+But in what manner did the enamoured Horatio support so cruel an
+affliction! he was no sooner informed at his return from hunting of what
+had happened, than he was seized with agonies, which, in the force he
+did himself to conceal, threw him into a fever that confined him to his
+bed for several days: as his passion for mademoiselle Charlotta was not
+in the least suspected, every body imputed his disorder to be occasioned
+by having over-heated himself in the chace, and during his indisposition
+was visited by all the court:--the Chevalier St. George sent two or
+three times a day to enquire of the health of his countryman, as he was
+pleased to call him, and gave him many other tokens how greatly he was
+in his favour; but all the civilities he received were not capable of
+lessening the anguish of his mind, which kept his body so weak, that
+tho' youth and an excellent constitution threw off the fever in a short
+time, yet he was unable to quit his chamber in near three weeks, and
+when he did, appeared so wan and so dejected, that he seemed no more
+than the shadow of the once gay and sprightly Horatio.
+
+But while he was thus sinking under the burden of his griefs, and
+despairing ever to see his adorable Charlotta any more, fate was
+providing for him a relief as unexpected as the cause of his present
+unhappy situation had been, and to the very same persons also was he
+indebted both for the one and the other.
+
+Young monsieur de Coigney was not less alarmed than Horatio at the
+removal of Charlotta, tho' it had not the same effect on him; he was
+continually teizing his sister to make her a visit and repeat her
+intercessions in his behalf; but she had received such tart answers on
+that score, that she was very unwilling to undertake the embassy:
+however, she complied at last, and was received by mademoiselle
+Charlotta in the most obliging manner, but had not the least opportunity
+of executing her commission, that lady having a good deal of company
+with her, whom she purposely detained to avoid entering into any
+particular conversation with her, till the hour in which she knew her
+attendance on the queen would oblige her to take leave.
+
+The baron de Palfoy was at that time abroad; but when he was informed
+who had been there, was a little disturbed that the sister of de Coigney
+endeavoured still to keep up her intimacy with his daughter, not
+doubting but she had either brought some letter or message from him, as
+he was fully persuaded in his mind that there was a mutual affection
+between them; but he took no notice of it as yet, thinking that probably
+she might make a second visit, and that then he should be better able to
+judge of the motive.
+
+In the mean time the father of monsieur de Coigney being informed of
+these proceedings, thought it beneath his son to carry on a clandestine
+courtship; and the great share he possessed of the royal favour, he
+having been instrumental in gaining some point in the parliament of
+Paris, rendered him vain enough to imagine his alliance would not be
+refused, tho' there was a superiority both of birth and fortune on the
+side of monsieur the baron de Palfoy.
+
+In a perfect confidence of succeeding in his request, he went to his
+house, and, after some little preparation, proposed a match between his
+son and mademoiselle de Palfoy. The baron was not at all surprized at
+what he said, because he expected, if the young people were kept
+asunder, an offer would be made of this kind; and after hearing calmly
+all he had to say, in order to induce him to give his consent, he told
+him, that he was very sorry he had asked a thing which it was impossible
+to grant, because he had already determined to dispose otherwise of his
+daughter. Monsieur de Coigney then asked to whom. I know not as yet,
+replied the other, but when I said I had determined to dispose her
+otherways, I only meant to one who is of blood at least equal to her
+own, and who has never, by any public debaucheries, rendered himself
+contemptible to the discreet part of mankind.
+
+De Coigney knew not how either to put up or resent this affront; he knew
+very well that his son had behaved so as to give cause for it, yet
+thought he had other perfections which might over-balance what, by a
+partial indulgence, he looked upon only as the follies of youth; and as
+for the reflection on his family, he told the other, that whatever he
+was he owed to the merit of his ancestors, not his own, and that he
+doubted not but his son would one day raise his name equal to that of
+Palfoy. In fine, the pride of the one, and the vanity of the other,
+occasioned a contest between them, which might have furnished matter for
+a scene in a comedy had any poet been witness of it: the result of it
+was that they agreed in this to be mutually dissatisfied with each
+other, never to converse together any more, and to forbid all
+communication between their families.
+
+The baron went immediately to his daughter's chamber, and having ordered
+her maid, who was then doing something about her, to leave the room, I
+have wondered, Charlotta, said he, with a countenance that was far from
+betraying the secret vexation of his mind, that you have never, since
+your coming to Paris, expressed the least desire of making a visit at
+St. Germains, tho' the duty you owe a princess, who seems to have a very
+great affection for you, might well have excused any impatience you
+might have testified on that score; besides, you owe a visit to
+mademoiselle de Coigney.
+
+The princess merits doubtless all the respect I am able to pay her,
+answered she; but, my lord, as it was your pleasure to remove me from
+that palace, I waited till your command should licence my return; as for
+mademoiselle de Coigney, the intimacy between us will excuse those
+ceremonies which are of little weight where there is a real friendship.
+
+These words confirming all the baron's suspicions, he thought there was
+no need of farther dissimulation, and the long-conceived indignation
+burst out in looks more furious than the trembling Charlotta had ever
+seen in him before.--Yes, degenerate girl! said he, I have but too plain
+proofs of the friendship in which you have linked yourself with the
+family of the de Coigney's;--but tell me, continued he, how dare you
+engage yourself so far without my knowledge? could you ever hope I would
+consent to an alliance with de Coigney?
+
+De Coigney! cried she, much more assured than she had been before the
+mention of that name, heaven forbid you should have such a thought!
+
+The resolution and disdain with which she spoke these words a little
+surprized him: what, cried he, have you not encouraged the addresses of
+young de Coigney, and even proceeded so far as to make his father
+imagine there required no more than to ask my consent to a marriage
+between you!
+
+How much courage does innocence inspire? Charlotta, of late so timid and
+alarmed while she thought Horatio was in question, was now all calmness
+and composure, when she found de Coigney the person for whom she had
+been suspected. She confessed to her father, with the most settled brow,
+that he had indeed made some offers of an affection for her, but said,
+she had given him such answers, as nothing but the height of arrogance
+and folly could interpret to his advantage; and then, on the baron's
+commanding her, acquainted him with every particular that had passed
+between that young gentleman, his sister, and herself, touching the
+affair she was accused of.
+
+She was so minute in every circumstance, answered with such readiness to
+all the questions he asked of her, and seemed so perfectly at ease, as
+indeed she was, that the baron could no longer have any doubts of her
+sincerity, and was sorry he had taken her so abruptly from St. Germains:
+he now told her, that she was at liberty to visit there as frequently as
+she pleased, only, as he had been affronted by old monsieur de Coigney,
+as well as to silence all future reports concerning the young gentleman,
+he expected she would break off all acquaintance with mademoiselle. She
+assured him of her obedience in this point, and added, that she could do
+it without any difficulty; for tho' she was a lady who had many good
+qualities, and one for whom she once had a friendship, yet the taking
+upon her to forward her brother's designs had occasioned a strangeness
+between them, which had already more than half anticipated his commands.
+
+Monsieur the baron de Palfoy was now as well satisfied with his daughter
+as he had lately been the reverse, and she was allowed once more all
+those innocent liberties which the French ladies, above those of any
+other nation in the world, enjoy.
+
+It is not to be doubted but that the first use she made of liberty was
+to go to St. Germains: she had heard from mademoiselle de Coigney, when
+she came to visit her, that Horatio had been very much indisposed, and
+at that time was not quite recovered, and was impatient to give him all
+the consolation that the sight of her could afford; but fearing she
+should not have an opportunity of speaking to him in private, she wrote
+a letter, containing a full recital of the reason which had induced her
+father to take her from St. Germains, and the happy mistake he had been
+in concerning de Coigney; concluding with letting him know he might
+sometimes visit her at Paris as an indifferent acquaintance, not the
+least suspicion being entertained of him, and the baron now in so good a
+humour with her, that it would not be easy for any one to make him give
+credit to any informations to her prejudice. The whole was dictated by a
+spirit of tenderness, which, tho' it did not plainly confess an
+affection, implied every thing an honourable lover could either
+expect or hope.
+
+On her arrival at St. Germains, where there was an extreme full court to
+congratulate the princess Louisa, on the great victories lately gained
+by Charles XII. the brave king of Sweeden, to whom she had been some
+time contracted, she passed directly to her highness's apartment; and
+the Chevalier St. George being then with her, those of his Gentlemen who
+had attended him thither, were waiting in the antichamber: among them
+was Horatio: the alteration of his countenance on sight of her, after
+this absence, was too visible not to have been remarked, had not all
+present been too busy in paying their compliments to her, to take any
+notice of it. He was one of the last that approached, being willing to
+recover the confusion he felt himself in, lest it should have an effect
+on his voice in speaking to her. She, more prepared, received his salute
+with the same gay civility she did the others, but at the same instant
+slipped the letter she had brought with her into his hand.
+
+Any one who is in the least acquainted with the power of love, may guess
+the transports of Horatio at this condescension; but, impatient to know
+the dear contents, he went out of the room as soon as he found he could
+do it without being observed, and having perused this obliging billet,
+found in it a sufficient cordial to revive that long languishment his
+spirit had been in.
+
+At his return he found her engaged in conversation with several
+gentlemen and ladies: he mingled in the company, but could expect no
+other satisfaction from it than being near his dear Charlotta, and
+hearing her speak. The Chevalier St. George soon after came out, and he
+was obliged with the rest of his train to quit the place, which at
+present contained the object of his wishes. She went in immediately
+after to the princess, so he saw her no more that day at St. Germains.
+
+All that now employed his thoughts was a pretence to visit her at her
+father's house; for tho' she had told him in her letter that he might
+come as an ordinary acquaintance, yet knowing that the continuance of
+their conversation depended wholly on the secrecy of it, he was willing
+to avoid giving even the most distant occasions of suspicion.
+
+Fortune, hitherto favourable to his desires, now presented him with one
+more ample than any thing his own invention could have supplied him
+with: happening to be at Paris in the company of some friends, with whom
+he stayed later than ordinary, he was hurrying thro' the streets in
+order to go to the inn where his servant and horses waited for him, when
+he heard the clashing of swords at some distance from him: guided by his
+generosity, he flew to the place where the noise directed him, and saw
+by the lights, which hang out very thick in that city, one person
+defending himself against three who pressed very hard upon him, and had
+got him down just as Horatio arrived to his relief: he ran among the
+assaillants; and either the greatness of his courage, or the belief that
+others would come to his assistance, threw them into such a
+consternation, that they all sought their safety in their flight, while
+the person they had attacked got up again and thanked his deliverer,
+without whose timely aid, he said, he could have expected nothing but
+death: those who set upon him being robbers, and, as he perceived by
+their behaviour, desperate wretches, who were for securing themselves by
+taking the lives, as well as money, of those who were too weak to resist
+them: he pointed to a dead body on the ground, who he told Horatio was
+his servant, and had been killed in his defence.
+
+But how transported was our young lover when, he found that the person
+to whom he had done so signal a piece of service, was the father of his
+mistress. As he perceived he had some wounds, tho' they proved but
+slight, he compleated the obligation he had began to confer, by
+supporting him under the arm till he got home, where the baron made him
+enter with him, and would have prevailed with him to stay all night; but
+Horatio told him he could not well dispense with being absent from his
+post; that it was highly proper he should return to St. Germains that
+night late as it was, but would do himself the honour of waiting on him
+the next day to enquire after the state of the wounds he had received.
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta was gone to bed; but being rouzed by the
+accident, no sooner was informed by the surgeons, who were immediately
+sent for, that there was nothing dangerous in the hurts her father had
+received, than she blessed heaven for making Horatio the instrument of
+his preservation. The sense the baron seemed to have of this obligation,
+and the praises he bestowed on the gallant manner in which the young
+gentleman came to his relief, made her almost ready to flatter herself
+that fate interested itself in behalf of their love; and indeed monsieur
+the baron, notwithstanding the haughtiness of his nature, had the most
+just notions of gratitude; and to testify it to Horatio, would have
+refused him scarce any thing except his daughter. But however that
+should happen, she still found more and more excuses for indulging the
+inclinations she had for him; and tho' she yet had never given him any
+such assurances, yet she resolved in her own mind, to live only for him.
+
+The baron being obliged to keep his bed for several days, Horatio had a
+pretence for repeating his visits to him during this time of his
+confinement, and afterwards went often by invitation; the other, besides
+the obligation he had to him, finding something extremely pleasing in
+his conversation, to which (not to take from Horatio's merits) the
+obsequiousness he found no difficulty in himself to behave with towards
+a Man of his age, his quality, and above all, the father of Charlotta,
+not a little contributed.
+
+The lovers had now frequent opportunities of entertaining each other
+both at Paris and St. Germains: nor were any of those demonstrations
+which virtue and innocence permitted, wanting between them, to render
+them as perfectly easy as people can possibly be, who have yet something
+to desire, and much to fear. But as smooth as now their fortune seemed,
+they knew not how soon a storm might rise, and give a sudden
+interruption to that felicity they enjoyed.--The charms of Charlotta
+were every day making new conquests; and among the number of those who
+pretended to admire her, how probable was it that some one might be
+thought worthy by her father, and she be compelled to receive the
+addresses of a rival. These were reflections too natural not to occur to
+them both, and whenever they did, could not fail of embittering those
+sweets the certainty of a mutual affection had otherwise afforded.
+
+They had now no trouble from monsieur de Coigney; his father, in order
+to make him forget a hopeless passion, had found an employment for him
+which obliged him to go many leagues from Paris; and once the
+conversation already mentioned at the baron's, his sister and
+mademoiselle Charlotta, by command of their respective parents, as well
+as their own inclinations, broke off all correspondence, nor even spoke
+to each other, unless when happening to meet in a visit, there was no
+avoiding it; and then it was in such a distant manner, and with so much
+indifference, that none would have imagined they ever had been intimate
+friends and companions.
+
+
+
+CHAP. IX.
+
+_A second separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+occurrences_.
+
+The season of the year now having put an end to the campaign, and the
+French, as well as confederate armies, being retired into their winter
+quarters, the baron de la Valiere, who had always a special permission
+from the general, returned to Paris: Horatio promised himself much
+satisfaction in the renewed society of this friend, and no sooner heard
+he was on the road than he went to meet him. The baron, charm'd with
+this proof of his affection and respect, received him as a brother, and
+there was little less freedom used between them.
+
+After the mutual testimonies and good-will were over de la Valiere began
+to ask him concerning mademoiselle Charlotta; on which Horatio
+acquainted him with her being removed from St. Germains, and the
+occasion of it, not omitting the arrogance with which old monsieur de
+Coigney had behaved to her father, and the resentment now between
+the families.
+
+Well, said the baron, but I hope you have been more successful, at least
+with the young lady: I will never more trust the intelligence of eyes,
+if yours did not hold a very tender intercourse; and I protest to you,
+my dear Horatio, that amidst all the toils and dangers of war, my
+thoughts were often at St. Germains, not envying, but congratulating the
+pleasures you enjoyed in the conversation of that amiable lady.
+
+I doubt not, replied Horatio with a smile, but we had you with us at a
+place which contained mademoiselle de Coigney; and I am of opinion too
+she was no less frequently in the camp with you; for in spite of all the
+reserve she affected while you were present, she never heard the bare
+mention of your name without emotions, which were very visible in her
+countenance.
+
+I would not be vain, replied the baron, but I sometimes have flattered
+myself with the hope I was not altogether indifferent to her; tho' for
+two whole years that I have constantly made my addresses to her, I never
+could obtain one soft confession to assure my happiness:--but let me
+know how you have proceeded on the score of mademoiselle Charlotta?
+believe me, I am not so engrossed by my own affairs, as not to give
+attention to those of a friend.
+
+Horatio, who had been engaged by Charlotta to preserve an inviolable
+secrecy in every thing that had passed between them, without any
+exception of persons, would fain have turned the conversation on some
+other topic: he truly loved the baron, had the highest opinion of his
+discretion, and would have trusted him with the dearest secrets of his
+life, provided they related to himself alone; but he had given his word,
+his oath, his honour to Charlotta, and durst not violate them on any
+consideration; yet, loth to refuse or to deceive his friend, he found
+himself in the most perplexing dilemma. As often as the other spoke of
+Charlotta, he answered with something of de Coigney; but all his
+artifice was ineffectual, and the baron at last saw thro' it, and
+assuming a very grave countenance, I perceive, Horatio, said he, you do
+not think me worthy your confidence, and I was to blame to press you to
+reveal what you resolve to make a mystery of.
+
+These words made a very deep impression on the grateful soul of him they
+were addressed to; and equally distressed between the necessity of
+either disobliging a person whose generosity he had experienced, or
+falsifying the promise he had made to Charlotta, at last an expedient
+offered to his mind how to avoid both, and yet not be guilty of injuring
+the truth.
+
+Alas! my lord, answered he, you little know the heart of Horatio, if you
+imagine there be any thing there that would hide itself from you:--I
+freely confess, the charms of mademoiselle Charlotta had such an effect
+on me, that, had I been in circumstances which in the least could have
+flattered me with success, I should long ago have avowed myself her
+lover: but when I reflected on the disparity between us, the humour of
+her father, and a thousand other impediments, I endeavoured to banish so
+hopeless a passion from my breast, and was the more confirmed in my
+resolution to do so by the ill treatment monsieur de Coigney
+received:--besides, her removal from St. Germains, depriving me in a
+great measure of those opportunities I had before of entertaining her,
+might very well contribute to wean off a passion, not settled either by
+time or expectation, of ever being gratified; and I hope, continued he,
+I shall always have so much command over myself as not to become
+ridiculous by aiming at impossibilities.
+
+Whether the baron gave any credit to what he said on this account or
+not, he had too much politeness to press him any farther; and the
+discourse soon after taking another turn, Horatio was very well pleased
+to think he had got off so well.
+
+De la Valiere having related to him some particulars of the late
+campaign, which the public accounts had been deficient in, they passed
+from that to some talk of the brave young king of Sweden, a topic which
+filled all Europe with admiration: but the French being a people in whom
+the love of glory is the predominant passion, were more than any other
+nation charmed with the greatness of that prince's soul.
+
+What indeed has any hero of antiquity to boast of in competition with
+this northern monarch, who conquered and gave away kingdoms for the
+benefit of others, disdaining to receive any other reward for all his
+vast fatigues, than the pleasure of giving a people that person whom he
+judged most worthy to reign over them!
+
+The baron, who had attended the Count de Guiscard when he was
+residentiary ambassador from his most christian majesty at the Swedish
+court, had an opportunity of seeing more of this monarch than any other
+that Horatio was acquainted with; he therefore, on his requesting it,
+informed him how, at the age of eighteen, he threw off all magnificence,
+forsook the pomp and delicacies of a court he had been bred in, and
+undertook, and compleated the delivery of his brother-in-law, the duke
+of Holstein, from the cruel incursions of the Danes, who had well nigh
+either taken or ravaged the greatest part of his territories. He also
+set forth, in its proper colours, the base part which Peter Alexowitz,
+czar of Muscovy, and Augustus, king of Poland, acted against a prince
+who was then employing his arms in the cause of justice; the latter of
+these bringing a powerful army to take from him one part of his
+dominions; and the former, at the head of an 100,000 men, were
+plundering the other: but when he concluded his little narrative, by
+reciting how this young conqueror, with a handful of brave Swedes,
+animated by the example of their king, put entirely to route all that
+opposed him, Horatio felt his soul glow with an ardour superior even to
+that of love: he longed to behold a prince who seemed to have all the
+virtues comprized in him, and whose very thoughts, as well as actions,
+might be looked upon as super-natural.
+
+He is, however, greatly to be pitied, said the baron de la Valiere, that
+the wars he is engaged in, and which, in all probability will be of long
+continuance, hinders him from the possession of the most amiable
+princess in the world, and I dare answer, at least if I may credit those
+about her, she wishes he were of a less martial disposition.
+
+He will be the more worthy of her, cried Horatio interrupting him, and
+the immortal fame of his actions be a sufficient attonement for all the
+years of expectation that may be its purchase.
+
+From the time Horatio had this discourse with the baron, the king of
+Sweden was ever uppermost in his thoughts: he had always reflected that,
+in the station he then was, it would be impossible to obtain any more of
+mademoiselle Charlotta than her heart, at least while the baron de
+Palfoy lived, and that a thousand accidents might deprive him of all
+hopes of ever being more happy; but, said he to himself, were I among
+the number of those who attend this hero in his martial exploits, I
+might at least have an opportunity of proving how far fortune would
+befriend me;--who knows but I might be able to do something which might
+engage that just and generous monarch to raise me to a degree capable of
+avowing my pretensions even to her father, and the same blessed day that
+joined our principals, might also make me blessed in the possession of
+my dear Charlotta.
+
+With these ideas did he often flatter himself; but the manner in which
+he should accomplish his desires was yet doubtless to him. The chevalier
+St. George treated him with so much kindness, that he had no room to
+doubt his having a great share in his favour; and was fully perswaded,
+that if he communicated his intentions to him, he would vouchsafe to
+give him letters of recommendation to a prince who was to be his
+brother-in-law: but this he feared to ask, lest it should be looked upon
+as ingratitude in him to desire to leave a court where he had been so
+graciously received, and had many favours, besides the perquisites of
+his post, heaped upon him, not only by the chevalier himself, but also
+by the queen and princess, who, following the example of the late king,
+behaved with a kind of natural affection to all the English.
+
+He sometimes communicated his sentiments on this head to mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who was too discreet not to allow the justness of them; and
+well knew, that in the station her lover now was, they never could be on
+any terms with each other than those they were at present: her reason,
+therefore, and the advantage of her love, made her sometimes wish he
+would follow the dictates of so laudable an ambition; but then the
+dangers he must inevitably be exposed to in following a monarch who
+never set any bounds to his courage, and the thoughts how long it might
+possibly be before she saw him again, alarmed all her tenderness; and he
+had the satisfaction of seeing the tears stand in her eyes whenever they
+had any discourse of this nature; and tho' her words assured him that it
+was her opinion he could not take a more ready way to raise his own
+fortune, yet her looks at the same time made him plainly see how much
+she would suffer in his taking that step.
+
+Many reasons, both for and against following his inclination in this
+point, presented themselves to him; and he had no sooner, as he thought,
+determined for the one, than the other rose with double vehemence and
+overthrew the former. In this fluctuating situation of mind did he
+remain for some time, and perhaps had done so much longer, had not an
+accident happened which proved decisive, and indeed left him no other
+party to take than that he afterwards did.
+
+Charlotta, being now entirely mistress of herself, gave him frequent
+meetings in the Tuilleries, judging it safer to converse with him there
+than at the house of any person, whom, in such a case, must be the
+confidante of the whole affair; whereas, if they were seen together in
+the walks, it might be judged they met by accident, and not give any
+grounds of suspicion, which hitherto they had been so fortunate as
+to avoid.
+
+It was in one of those appointments, when entered into a very tender
+conversation, they forgot themselves so far as to suffer the moon to
+rise upon them: the stillness of the evening, and the little company
+which happened to be there that night, seemed to indulge their
+inclinations of continuing in so sweet a recess:--they were seated on a
+bench at the foot of a large tree, when Charlotta, in answer to some
+tender professions he had been making, said, depend on this, Horatio,
+that as you are the first who has ever been capable of making me
+sensible of love, so nothing shall have power to change my sentiments
+while you continue to deserve, or to desire I should think of you as I
+now do. He shall not long continue to desire it,--cried a voice behind
+them, and immediately rushed from the other side of the thicket a man
+with his sword drawn, and ran full upon Horatio, who not having time to
+be upon his guard, had certainly fallen a victim to his rival's fury,
+had not a gentleman seized his arm, and, by superior strength, forced
+him some paces back.--Are you mad, monsieur, said he; do you forget the
+place you are in, or the danger you so lately escaped for an enterprize
+of this nature?
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta, now a little recovered from her first, surprize,
+and knowing it was young monsieur de Coigney who had given her this
+alarm, had presence enough of mind to ask how he dared, after he knew
+her own and father's resolution, to disturb her, or any company she had
+with her? he made no reply, but reflecting that there were other ways
+than fighting, by which he might be revenged, went hastily away with
+that friend who had hindered him from executing his rash purpose; but
+they could hear that he muttered something which seemed a menace against
+them both.
+
+How impossible is it to express the consternation our lovers now were
+in: they found by the repetition monsieur de Coigney made of the words
+she spoke, that what they had so long and so successfully laboured to
+conceal, was now betrayed:--betrayed to one who would not fail to make
+the most malicious use of the discovery, and doubted not but the affair
+would become the general talk, perhaps to the prejudice of Charlotta's
+reputation; but the least thing either could expect, was to be
+separated for ever.
+
+Horatio, full of disturbed emotions, conducted his disconsolate mistress
+to the gate of the Tuilleries, and there took a farewel of her, which he
+had too much reason to fear would be his last, at least for a long time.
+He was tempted by his first emotions to seek de Coigney, and call him to
+account for the affront he had put upon him, and either lose his own
+life, or oblige the other to secrecy; but then he considered, that there
+was some probability he would not dare to own that he had given himself
+any concern about mademoiselle Charlotta, after the injunction laid on
+him by his father, much less as he had attempted a duel in her cause,
+having, as has been already mentioned, been before guilty of a like
+offence against the laws, which in that country are very strict, on
+account of madame de Olonne; and this prevailed with him to be passive
+as to what had happened, till he should hear how the other would behave,
+and find what turn the affair would take.
+
+Charlotta in the mean time was in the most terrible anxieties:--she
+could not imagine what had brought monsieur de Coigney, who she thought
+had been many miles distant, so suddenly to Paris: but on making some
+private enquiry, she was informed, that having met some difficulty in
+the execution of his office, he had taken post, in order to lay his
+complaints before the king, and had arrived that very day.--She now
+blamed her own inadvertency in holding any discourse with Horatio, of a
+nature not proper to be over-heard, in a place so public as the
+Tuilleries, where others, as well as he, might have possibly been
+witnesses of what was said.
+
+Young monsieur de Coigney suffered little less from the turbulence of
+his nature, and the mortification it gave his vanity, to find a person,
+whom he looked upon as every way his inferior, preferred to him. His
+thoughts were wholly bent on revenge; but in what manner he should
+accomplish it, he was for some time uncertain: when he acquainted his
+father with the discovery he had made, and the resentment he had
+testified against this unworthy rival, as he called him, the old
+gentleman blamed him for taking any notice of it. Let them love on, son,
+said he; let them marry;--we shall then have a fine opportunity of
+reproaching the haughty baron with his new alliance. This did not
+however satisfy monsieur de Coigney: all the love he once had for
+mademoiselle Charlotta was now turned into hate; and in spite of his
+father's commands not to meddle in the affair, he could not help
+throwing out some reflections among his companions, very much to the
+disadvantage of the young lady's reputation. But these might possibly
+have blown over, as he had but a small time to vent his malice. His
+father knowing the violence of his temper, in order to prevent any ill
+consequences, compelled him to return to his employment; taking upon
+himself the management of that business which had brought him so
+unluckily to Paris.
+
+But mademoiselle de Coigney had no sooner been informed by her brother
+of the discovery he had made, than she doubted not that it was on the
+score of Horatio that he had met with such ill success in his courtship;
+and also imagined, that it had been owing to some ill impressions
+mademoiselle Charlotta had given the baron de Palfoy, that her father
+had been treated by him in the manner already recited. She complained of
+it to the baron de la Valiere, and told him, her whole family had been
+affronted, and her brother rendered miserable, for the sake of a young
+man, who, said she, can neither have birth or fortune to boast of, since
+he has been so long a prisoner without any ransom paid, or interposition
+offered to redeem him.
+
+The baron was too generous not to vindicate the merits of Horatio, as
+much as was consistent with his love and complaisance for his mistress:
+he was notwithstanding very much picqued in his mind that a person, to
+whom he had given the greatest proofs of a sincere and disinterested
+friendship, should have concealed a secret of this nature from him, and
+the more so, as he had seemed to expect and desire his confidence. From
+this time forward he behaved to him with a coldness which was sufficient
+to convince the other of the motive, especially as he found mademoiselle
+de Coigney took all opportunities of throwing the most picquant
+reflections on him. It is certain that lady was so full of spight at the
+indignity she thought her family had received, that she could not help
+whispering the attachment of Horatio and Charlotta, not only at St.
+Germains, but at Paris also, with inunendo's little less cruel than
+those her brother had made use of to his companions; so that between
+them, the amour was talked of among all who were acquainted with
+either of them.
+
+At length the report reached the ears of the baron de Palfoy, who, tho'
+he did not immediately give an entire credit to it, thought it became
+him to do every thing in his power to silence it.
+
+Accordingly he called his daughter to him one day, and having told her
+the liberty which the world took in censuring her conduct on Horatio's
+account, commanded her to avoid all occasions of it for the future, by
+seeing him no more.
+
+The confusion she was in, and which she had not artifice wholly to
+conceal from the penetrating baron, more convinced him, than all he had
+been told, that there was in reality some tender intercourse between
+them; but resolving to be fully ascertained, he said no more to her at
+that time, but dispatched a messenger immediately to St. Germains,
+desiring Horatio to come to him the same day.
+
+The lover readily obeyed this summons, but not without some
+apprehensions of the motive: the hints daily given him, joined to the
+alteration, not only in the behaviour of mademoiselle de Coigney, but
+likewise of the baron de la Valiere, gave him but too just room to fear
+his passion was no longer a secret.
+
+The father of Charlotta received him with great courtesy, but nothing of
+that pleasantness with which he had looked on him ever since he had
+defended him from the robbers. Horatio, said he, I am indebted to you
+for my life, and would willingly make what recompence is in my power for
+the obligation I have to you:--think therefore what I can do for you;
+and if your demands exceed not what is fit for you to ask, or would
+become me to grant, you may be assured of my compliance.
+
+The astonishment Horatio was in at these words is impossible to be
+expressed; but having an admirable presence of mind, my lord, answered
+he, I should be unworthy of the favours you do me, could I be capable of
+presuming on them so far as to make any requests beyond the
+continuance of them.
+
+No, Horatio, resumed the baron, I acknowledge my gratitude has been too
+deficient, since it has extended only to those civilities which are due
+to your merit, exclusive of any obligation; the conversation we have had
+together has hitherto afforded a pleasure to myself, and it is with a
+good deal of mortification I now find a necessity to break it off:--I
+would therefore have the satisfaction of doing something that might
+convince you of my esteem, at the same time that I desire you to refrain
+your visits.
+
+Not all Horatio's courage could enable him to stand this shock, without
+testifying some part of what passed in his mind:--he was utterly
+incapable of making any reply, tho' the silence of the other shewed he
+expected it, but stood like one confounded, and conscious of deserving
+the banishment he heard pronounced against him.--At last recollecting
+himself a little,--my lord, said he, I see not how I can be happy enough
+to preserve any part of your esteem, since looked upon as unworthy an
+honour you were once pleased to confer upon me.
+
+You affect, said the baron, a slowness of apprehension, which is far
+from being natural to you, and perhaps imagine, that by not seeming to
+understand me, I should believe there were no grounds for me to forbid
+you my house; but, young man, I am not so easily deceived; and since you
+oblige me to speak plain, must tell you, I am sorry to find you have
+entertained any projects, which, if you had the least consulted your
+reason, you would have known could never be accomplished.--In fine,
+Horatio, what you make so great a mystery of, may be explained in three
+words:--I wish you well as a friend, but cannot think of making you my
+son:--I would recompence what you have done for me with any thing but my
+daughter, and as a proof of my concern for your happiness, I exclude you
+from all society with her, in order to prevent so unavailing a passion
+from taking too deep a root.
+
+Ah, my lord, cried Horatio, perceiving all dissimulation would be vain,
+the man who once adored mademoiselle de Palfoy can never cease to do so.
+He ought therefore, replied the baron, without being moved, to consider
+the consequences well before he begins to adore:--if I had been
+consulted in the matter I should have advised you better; but it is now
+too late, and all I can do is to prevent your ever meeting more:--this,
+Horatio, is all I have to say, and that if in any other affair I can be
+serviceable to you, communicate your request in writing, and depend on
+its being granted.
+
+In speaking these last words he withdrew, and left Horatio in a
+situation of mind not easy to be conceived.--He was once about to
+entreat him to turn back, but had nothing to offer which could make him
+hope would prevail on him to alter his resolution.--He never had been
+insensible of the vast disparity there was at present between him and
+the noble family of de Palfoy: he could expect no other, or rather worse
+treatment than what he had now received, if his passion was ever
+discovered, and had no excuse to make for what himself allowed so great
+a presumption.
+
+With a countenance dejected, and a heart oppressed with various
+agitations, did he quit the house which contained what was most valuable
+to him in the world, while poor Charlotta endured, if possible, a
+greater shock.
+
+The baron de Palfoy, now convinced that all he had been informed of was
+true, was more incensed against her than he had been on the mistaken
+supposition of her being influenced in favour of monsieur de Coigney: he
+had no sooner left Horatio than he flew to her apartment, and reproached
+her in terms the most severe that words could form.--It was in vain she
+protested that she never had any design of giving herself to Horatio
+without having first received his permission.--He looked on all she said
+as an augmentation of her crime, and soon came to a determination to put
+it past her power to give him more than she had already done.
+
+Early next morning he sent her, under the conduct of a person he could
+confide in, to a monastry about thirty miles from Paris, without even
+letting her know whither she was about being carried, or giving her the
+least notice of her departure till the coach was at the door, into which
+he put, her himself with these words,--adeiu Charlotta, expect not to
+see Paris, or me again, till you desire no more to see Horatio.
+
+
+
+CHAP. X.
+
+_The reasons that induced Horatio to leave France; with the chevalier
+St. George's behaviour on knowing his resolution. He receives an
+unexpected favour from the baron de Palfoy._
+
+While Charlotta, under the displeasure of her father, and divided, as
+she believed, for ever from her lover, was pursuing her melancholy
+journey, Horatio was giving way to a grief which knew no bounds, and
+which preyed with the greater feirceness on his soul, as he had no
+friend to whom he could disburden it. The baron's estrang'd behaviour
+was no small addition to his other discontents, and he lamented the
+cruel necessity which had enforced him to disoblige a person to whom he
+owed so many favours, and whose advice would now have been the greatest
+consolation.
+
+He could not now hope Charlotta would be permitted to come to St.
+Germains, and doubted not but her father would take effectual methods to
+prevent her visiting at any place where even accident might occasion a
+meeting between them: he knew the watch had been set over her on the
+account of monsieur de Coigney, and might be assured it would not now be
+less strict, and that it would be equally impossible for either to
+communicate their thoughts by writing as it was to see each other.
+
+He was in the midst of these reflections when he heard, by some people
+who were acquainted with the baron de Palfoy, that he had sent his
+daughter away, but none knew where: this, instead of lessening his
+despair, was a very great aggravation of it:--he imagined she was
+confined in some monastry, and was not insensible of the difficulties
+that attend seeing a young lady who is sent there purposely to avoid the
+world; yet, said he to himself, could I be happy enough to discover even
+to what province she was carried, I would go from convent to convent
+till I had found which of them contained her.
+
+It was in vain that he made all possible enquiry: every one he asked was
+in reality as ignorant as himself.--The baron de Palfoy had trusted
+none, so could not be deceived but by those persons who had the charge
+of conducting her, and of their fidelity he had many proofs. Yet how
+impossible is it for human prudence to resist the decrees of fate.--The
+secret was betrayed, without any one being guilty of accusing the
+confidence reposed in them, and by the strangest accident that perhaps
+ever was, Horatio learned all he wished to know when he had given over
+all his endeavours for that purpose, and was totally despairing of it.
+
+He came one day to Paris, in order to alleviate his melancholy, in the
+company of some young gentlemen, who had expressed a very great regard
+for him; but his mind being taken up with various and perplexed thoughts
+on his entrance into that city, he mistook his way, and turned into the
+rue St. Dennis instead of the rue St. Honore, where he had been
+accustomed to leave his horses and servant.--He found his error just as
+he was passing by a large inn, and it being a matter of indifference to
+him where he put up, would not turn back, but ordered his man to alight
+here.--I forgot where I was going, said he, but I suppose the horses
+will be taken as much care of at this house as where we used to go. I
+shall see to that, replied the fellow. Horatio stepped into a room to
+take some refreshment while his servant went to the stable, but had not
+been there above a minute before he heard very high words between some
+people in the yard; and as he turned towards the window, saw a man in
+the livery of the baron de Palfoy, and whom he presently knew to be the
+coachman of that nobleman. He was hot in dispute with the innkeeper
+concerning a horse which he had hired of him, and, as the other
+insisted, drove so hard that he had killed him. The coachman denied the
+accusation; but the innkeeper told him he had witnesses to prove the
+horse died two hours after he was brought home, and declared, that if he
+had not satisfaction for his beast, he would complain to the baron, and
+if he did not do him justice, have recourse to law.--There was a long
+argument between them concerning the number of miles, the hours they
+drove, and the weight of the carriage.--Among other things the innkeeper
+alledged, that he saw them as he passed his corner, and there were so
+many trunks, boxes, and other luggage behind and before the coach,
+besides the company that was in it, that it required eight horses
+instead of six to draw it. Why then, said the coachman, did it not kill
+our horses as well as yours; if they had been equally good, they would
+have held out equally.--I do not pretend mine was as good, replied the
+innkeeper, I cannot afford to feed my horses as my lord does; but yet he
+was a stout gelding, and if he had not been drove so very hard, and
+perhaps otherwise ill used into the bargain, he would have been
+alive now.
+
+All this was sufficient to make Horatio imagine it was for the journey
+which deprived him of his dear Charlotta, that this horse had been
+hired, so tarried in the place where he was till the debate was over,
+which ended not to the satisfaction of the innkeeper, who swore he would
+not be fooled out of his money. As soon as the coachman was gone,
+Horatio called him in, and asked what was the matter, and who it was
+that endeavoured to impose upon him? on which the innkeeper readily told
+him, that on such a day this coachman came to him and hired a horse in
+order to make up a set to go to Rheines in Champaigne, my lord-baron
+having three or four sick in the stable at that time.--Two days after,
+said he, my horse was brought home all in a foam, and fell down dead in
+less than three hours, and yet this rascally coachman refuses to pay
+me for him.
+
+Horatio humoured him in all he said, and let him go on his own way till
+he had vented his whole stock of railing, and then asked him what
+company were in the coach. The innkeeper replied, that there was one man
+and two women, but did not know who they were, for their faces were
+muffled up in their hoods. This was sufficient for him to be assured it
+was no other than Charlotta, with her woman, and some friend whom the
+baron had sent with them. The day mentioned, being the very same he had
+been informed she was carried away, was also another confirmation; and
+he had not only the happiness of knowing where his mistress was, but of
+knowing it by such means as could give the baron no suspicion of his
+being acquainted with it, and therefore make him think it necessary to
+remove her.
+
+Having gained this intelligence, which yet he was no better for than the
+hope of being able to get a sight of her thro' the grate, which he was
+resolved to accomplish some way or other, he resumed his design of going
+into the army of the king of Sweden. As a perfect knowledge of the many
+excellent qualities of the chevalier St. George, made him regard and
+love him with an affection beyond what is ordinarily to be met with from
+a servant to his master, he felt an extreme repugnance to quit him, and
+yet more in breaking a matter to him which, while it testified a
+confidence in the goodness of him whose assistance he must implore, he
+thought, at the same time, would be looked on as ingratitude in himself;
+and he was some time deliberating in what manner he should do it; and it
+would have been perhaps a great while before he could have found words
+which he would have thought proper for the purpose, if he had not taken
+an opportunity, which, without any design of his own, offered itself
+to him.
+
+The chevalier St. George took a particular pleasure in the game of
+Chess; and Horatio having learned it among the officers in Campaine,
+frequently played with him: they were one evening at this diversion,
+when the lover of Charlotta having his mind a little perplexed, placed
+his men so ill, that the chevalier beat him out at every motion. How is
+this, Horatio, cried he; you used to play better than I, butt now I have
+the advantage of you.--May you always have it, sir, replied he with the
+utmost respect, over all who pretend to oppose you.--Chess is a kind of
+emblem of war, where policy should go hand in hand with courage; and
+there is a great master in that art, whom if I were some time to serve
+under, I flatter myself that I should be able to know how to move my men
+with better success than I have done to night; but then my skill should
+be employed only against such as are your enemies.
+
+You mean my brother Charles of Sweden, said the chevalier smiling, but I
+believe he seldom plays. Never, but when kingdoms are at stake, resumed
+Horatio; and if a day should come when you, sir, shall attempt the
+prize, how fortunate would it be for me to have learned to serve you as
+I am obliged by much more than my duty, by the most natural and
+inviolable attachment of my heart, which would render it the greatest
+blessing I could receive from heaven. I believe, indeed, returned the
+chevalier St. George, you love me enough to fight in my cause whenever
+occasion offers. I would not only fight, but die, cried Horatio warmly;
+yet I would wish to have the skill to make a great number of your
+enemies die before me. Well, said the chevalier, we will talk of this
+to-morrow; in the mean time play as well as you can against me at St.
+Germains: in another place perhaps you may play for me. Horatio made no
+other reply to these words than a low bow, and then elating his hands
+and eyes to heaven, as internally praying for the opportunity his master
+seemed to hint at.
+
+The impression this little conversation made on the mind of the
+chevalier St. George, proved itself in its effects the very next day.
+Horatio being ordered to come into his chamber early in the morning,--I
+have been thinking on what passed last night between us, said he, and if
+you have a serious Intention of doing what you seemed to hint at, will
+contribute all I can to forward you.
+
+Ah sir! cried Horatio, falling at his feet, impute not, I beseech you,
+this desire in me to any thing but the extreme desire I have to render
+myself worthy of the favours you have been pleased to confer upon me,
+and to be able to serve you whenever any happy occasion shall
+present itself.
+
+No more, Horatio, replied the chevalier, with a sweetness and affability
+peculiar to himself; I am perfectly assured of your duty and affection
+to me, and am so far from taking it ill that you desire to quit my court
+on this score, that I think, your ambition highly laudable:--I will
+write letters of recommendation, with my own hand, to my brother
+Charles, and to some others in his camp, which I doubt not but will
+procure you a reception answerable to your wishes:--therefore, as it is
+a long journey you are to take, the sooner you provide for your
+departure the better:--I will order you out of my privy purse 2000
+crowns towards your expences.
+
+Horatio found it impossible to express how much this goodness touched
+his soul; nor could do it any otherwise than by prostrating himself a
+second time, embracing his knees, and uttering some incoherent
+acclamations, which more shewed to his master the sincerity of his
+gratitude, and the perfect love he bore him, than the most elegant
+speeches could have done.
+
+After all possible demonstrations of the most gracious benignity on the
+one side, and reverence on the other, Horatio quitted the presence, and
+went to sir Thomas Higgons, who at that time was privy purse, and one of
+the finest gentlemen that ever England bred, and acquainted him with the
+chevalier St. George's goodness to him, and the change that was going to
+be made in his fortune: he thanked him in the politest manner for being
+made the first that should congratulate him, and told him, he did not
+doubt but he should see him return covered with laurels, and enriched
+with honours, by the most glorious and grateful monarch the world had to
+boast of. The whole court, whose esteem the good qualities, handsome
+person, and agreeable behaviour of Horatio had entirely gained, seemed
+to partake in his satisfaction, and he was so engrossed with the
+preparations for his departure, and receiving the compliments made him,
+that tho' he was far from forgetting Charlotta, yet the languishment
+which her absence had occasioned was entirely banished, and he now
+appeared all life and spirit.--So true it is that idleness is the food
+of soft desires.
+
+It must be confessed, indeed, that love had a very great share in
+reviving in him those martial inclinations, which for a time had seemed
+lulled to rest, since it was to render himself in a condition which
+might give him hope of obtaining the object of his love that now pushed
+him on to war. He resolved also to make Rheines in his way to Poland,
+where the king of Sweden then was pursuing his conquests, and see, if
+possible, his dear Charlotta, before he left France; and as he was of a
+more than ordinary sanguine disposition, he was much sooner elated with
+the prospect of success in any undertaking he went about, than dejected
+at the disappointment of it.
+
+The baron de la Valiere, whose friendship over-balanced his resentment,
+now gave an instance of his generosity, which, as things had stood of
+late between them, Horatio was far from expecting. That nobleman came to
+his apartment one day with a letter in his hand, and accosting him with
+the familiarity he had been accustomed to treat him with before their
+estrangement,--Horatio, said he, I cannot suffer you to leave us without
+giving you what testimonies of good-will are in my power:--you are now
+going among strangers, and tho' after the recommendations I hear you are
+to carry with you from the chevalier St. George, nothing can be added to
+assure you of the king of Sweden's favour, yet as many brave actions are
+lost for want of a proper representation of them, and the eyes of kings
+cannot be every where, it may be of some service to you to have general
+Renchild your friend: I once had the honour of a particular acquaintance
+with that great man, and I believe this letter, which I beg the favour
+of you to deliver to him, will in part convince him of your merit,
+before you may have an opportunity of proving it to him by your actions.
+
+Horatio took the letter out of his hand, which he had presented to him
+at the conclusion of his speech; and charmed with this behaviour, the
+satisfaction I should take, said he, in this mark of your forgiving
+goodness, would be beyond all bounds, were I not conscious how far I
+have been unworthy of it; and that I fear the same goodness, always
+partial to me, may have in this paper (meaning the letter) endeavoured
+to give the general an idea of me which I may not be able to preserve.
+
+I look upon myself to be the best judge of that, replied the baron with
+a smile; and you may remember, that on a very different occasion I saw
+into your sentiments before you were well acquainted with the nature of
+them yourself.
+
+As Horatio knew these words referred to the discourse that had passed
+between them concerning his then infant passion for mademoiselle
+Charlotta, he could not help blushing; but de la Valiere perceiving he
+had given him some confusion, would have turned the discourse, had not
+the other thought fit to continue it, by letting him know the real
+motive which had constrained him to act with the reserve he had done on
+that score.
+
+The baron de la Valiere assured him that he should think no more of it;
+and tho' at first he had taken it a little amiss, yet when he came to
+reflect on the circumstance, he could not but confess he should have
+behaved in the same manner himself.
+
+The renewal of the former friendship between them, greatly added to the
+contentment Horatio at present enjoyed; but soon after he received such
+an augmentation of it, as he could never have imagined, much less have
+flattered himself with the hope of.
+
+Some few days before his departure, a servant of the baron de Palfoy
+came to him to let him know his lord sent his compliments, and desired
+to speak with him at his own house. The message seemed so improbable,
+that Horatio could scarce give credit to it, and imagined the man had
+been mistaken in the person to whom he delivered it, till he repeated
+over and over again that it was to no other he was sent.
+
+Had it been any other than the father of mademoiselle Charlotta, who had
+invited him to a house he had been once forbid, he scarce would have
+obeyed the summons; but as it was he, the awful person who gave being to
+that charmer of his soul, he sent the most respectful answer, and the
+same day took horse for Paris, and attended the explanation of an order
+which at present seemed so misterious to him.
+
+The baron was no sooner informed he was there, than he came into the
+parlour with a countenance, which had in it all the marks of good humour
+and satisfaction; Horatio, said he, after having made him seat himself,
+I doubt not but you think me your enemy, after the treatment I gave you
+the last time you were here; but I assure you, I suffered no less myself
+in forbidding you my house, than you could do in having what you might
+think an affront put upon you:--but, continued he after a pause, you
+ought to consider I am a father, that Charlotta is my only child, that
+my whole estate, and what is of infinite more consideration with me, the
+honour of my family, must all devolve on her, and that I am under
+obligations not to be dispensed with, to dispose of her in such a manner
+as shall not any way degrade the ancestry she is sprung from.--I own
+your merits:--I also am indebted to you for my life:--but you are a
+foreigner, your family unknown,--your fortune precarious:--I could wish
+it were otherwise;--believe, I find in myself an irresistable impulse to
+love you, and I know nothing would give me greater pleasure than to
+convince you of it.--In fine, there is nothing but Charlotta I would
+refuse you.
+
+The old lord uttered all this with so feeling an accent that Horatio was
+very much moved at it; but unable to guess what would be the consequence
+of this strange preparation, and not having any thing to ask of him but
+the only thing he had declared he would not grant, he only thanked him
+for the concern he was pleased to express, and said, that perhaps there
+might come a time in which the obscurity he was in at present would be
+enlightened; at least, cried he, I shall have the satisfaction of
+endeavouring to acquire by merit what I am denied by fortune.
+
+I admire this noble ambition in you, replied the baron de Palfoy; pursue
+these laudable views, and doubt not of success:--it would be an infinite
+pleasure to me to see you raised so high, that I should acknowledge an
+alliance with you the greatest honour I could hope: and to shew you with
+how much sincerity I speak,--here is a letter I have wrote to count
+Piper, the first minister and favourite of the king of Sweden; when you
+deliver this to him, I am certain you will be convinced by his reception
+of you, that you are one whose interest I take no inconsiderable
+part in.
+
+With these words he gave him a letter directed, as he had said, but not
+sealed, which Horatio, after he had manifested the sense he had of so
+unhoped an obligation, reminded him of. As it concerns only yourself,
+said the baron, it is proper you should read it first, and I will then
+put on my signet.
+
+Horatio on this unfolded it, and found it contained such high
+commendations of him, and such pressing entreaties to that minister to
+contribute all he could to his promotion, that it seemed rather dictated
+by the fondness of a parent, than by one who had taken so much pains to
+avoid being so. O, my lord! cried he, as soon as he had done perusing
+it, how much do you over-rate the little merit I am master of, yet how
+little regard a passion which is the sole inspirer of it! what will
+avail all the glory I can acquire, if unsuccessful in my love!
+
+Let us talk no more of that, said the baron de Palfoy, you ought to be
+satisfied I do all for you in my power to do at present:--other
+opportunities may hereafter arrive in which you may find the continuance
+of my friendship, and a grateful remembrance of the good office you did
+me; but to engage me to fulfil my obligations without any reluctance on
+my part, you must speak to me no more on a theme which I cannot hear
+without emotions, such as I would by no means give way to.
+
+Horatio gave a deep sigh, but presumed not to reply; the other, to
+prevent him, turned the conversation on the wonderful actions of that
+young king into whose service he was going to enter; but the lover had
+contemplations of a different nature which he was impatient to indulge,
+therefore made his visit as short as decency and the favour he had just
+received would permit. The baron at parting gave him a very affectionate
+embrace, and told him, he should rejoice to hear of his success by
+letters from him as often as the places and employments he should be in
+would allow him to write.
+
+Let any one form, if they can, an idea suitable to the present situation
+of Horatio's mind at so astonishing an incident: impossible it was for
+him to form any certain conjecture on the baron de Palfoy's behaviour;
+some of his expressions seemed to flatter him with the highest
+expectations of future happiness, while others, he thought, gave him
+reason to despair:--sometimes he imagined that it was to his pride and
+the greatness of his spirit, which would not suffer him to let any
+obligation go unrequited, that he owed what had been just now done for
+him.--But when he reflected on the contents of the letter to count
+Piper, he could not help thinking they were dictated by something more
+than an enforced gratitude:--he remembered too that he promised him the
+continuation of his friendship, and had given some hints during the
+conversation, as if time and some accidents, which might possibly
+happen, might give a turn to his affairs even on Charlotta's
+account.--On the whole it appeared most reasonable to conclude, that if
+he could by any means raise his fortune in the world to the pitch the
+baron had determined for his daughter, he would not disapprove their
+loves; and in this belief he could not but think himself as fortunate as
+he could expect to be, since he never had been vain enough to imagine,
+that in his present circumstances he might hope either the consent of
+the father, or the ratification of the daughter's affection.
+
+Every thing being now ready for his departure, he took leave of the
+chevalier St. George, who seemed to be under a concern for losing him,
+which only the knowledge how great an advantage this young gentleman
+would receive by it, could console: the queen also gave him a letter
+from herself to her intended son-in-law; and the charming princess
+Louisa, with blushes, bid him tell the king of Sweden, he had her prayers
+and wishes for success in all his glorious enterprizes.
+
+Thus laden with credentials which might assure him of a reception equal
+to the most ambitious aim of his aspiring soul, he set out from Paris,
+not without some tender regret at quitting a place where he had been
+treated with such uncommon and distinguished marks of kindness and
+respect. But these emotions soon gave way to others more
+transporting:--he was on his journey towards Rheines, the place which
+contained his beloved Charlotta; and the thoughts that every moment
+brought him still nearer to her filled him with extacies, which none but
+those who truly love can have any just conception of.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XI.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds means to see mademoiselle Charlotta
+and afterwards pursues his journey to Poland_.
+
+The impatience Horatio had to be at Rheines made him travel very hard
+till he reached that city; nor did he allow himself much time for repose
+after his fatigue, till having made a strict enquiry at all the
+monasteries, he at length discovered where mademoiselle Charlotta
+was placed.
+
+Hitherto he had been successful beyond his hopes; but the greatest
+difficulty was not yet surmounted: he doubted not but as such secrecy
+had been used in the carrying her from Paris, and of the place to which
+she had been conveyed, that the same circumspection would be preserved
+in concealing her from the sight of any stranger that should come to the
+monastry:--he invented many pretences, but none seemed satisfactory to
+himself, therefore could not expect they would pass upon
+others.--Sometimes he thought of disguising himself in the habit of a
+woman, his youth, and the delicacy of his complexion making him imagine
+he might impose on the abbess and the nuns for such; but then he feared
+being betrayed, by not being able to answer the questions which would in
+all probability be asked him.--He endeavoured to find out some person
+that was acquainted there; but tho' he asked all the gentlemen, which
+were a great many, that dined at the same Hotel with him, he was at as
+great a loss as ever. He went to the chapel every hour that mass was
+said, but could flatter himself with no other satisfaction from that than
+the empty one of knowing he was under the same roof with her; for the
+gallery in which the ladies sit, pensioners, as well as those who have
+taken the veil, are so closely grated, that it is impossible for those
+below to distinguish any object.
+
+He was almost distracted when he had been there three or four days
+without being able to find any expedient which he could think likely to
+succeed:--he knew not what to resolve on;--time pressed him to pursue
+his journey;--every day, every hour that he lost from prosecuting the
+glorious hopes he had in view, struck ten thousand daggers to his
+soul:--but then to go without informing the dear object of his wishes
+how great a part she had in inspiring his ambition,--without assuring
+her of his eternal constancy and faith, and receiving some soft
+condescensions from her to enable him to support so long an absence as
+he in all probability must endure.--All this, I say, was a shock to
+thought, which, had he not been relieved from, would have perhaps abated
+great part of that spirit which it was necessary for him to preserve, in
+order to agree with the recommendatory letters he carried with him.
+
+He was just going out of the chapel full of unquiet meditations, when
+passing by the confessional, a magdalen curiously painted which hung
+near it attracted his eyes: as he was admiring the piece, something fell
+from above and hit against his arm; he stooped to take it up, and found
+it a small ivory tablet: he looked up, but could see the shadow of
+nothing behind the grate: imagining it only an accident, and not knowing
+to whom to return it, he put it in his pocket, but was no sooner out of
+the chapel than curiosity excited him to see what it contained, which he
+had no sooner done than in the first leaf he found these words:
+
+
+"As I imagine you did not come this long journey
+without a desire to see me, it would be too ungrateful
+not to assist your endeavours:--come a little before
+vespers, and enquire of the portress for mademoiselle
+du Pont;--say you are her brother, and leave the rest to me."
+
+
+There was no name subscribed; but the dear characters, tho' evidently
+wrote in haste and with a pencil, which made some alteration in the
+fineness of the strokes, convinced him it came from no other than
+Charlotta; and never were any hours so tedious to him as those which
+past between the receiving this appointment, and that of the
+fulfilling it.
+
+At length the wish'd-for time arrived, and he repaired to the gate,
+where telling the portress, as he was ordered, that he was the brother
+of mademoiselle du Pont, he was immediately brought into the parlour,
+where he had not waited long before a young lady appeared behind the
+grate: as he found it was not her he expected, he was a little at a
+loss, and not without some apprehensions that his imagination had
+deceived him: I know not, madame, said he, if chance has not made me
+mistaken for some happier person:--I thought to find a sister here.--No,
+replied she laughing, Horatio shall find me a sister in my good
+offices;--mademoiselle Charlotta will be here immediately;--she has
+counterfeited an indisposition to avoid going to vespers, and obtained
+permission for me to stay with her;--so that every thing is right, and
+as soon as the choir is gone into chapel you will see her. It would be
+needless to repeat the transports Horatio uttered on this occasion, so I
+shall only say they were such as convinced mademoiselle du Pont, that
+her fair friend had not made this condescension to a man ungrateful for,
+or insensible of the obligation. He was indeed so lost in them, that he
+scarce remembered to pay those compliments to the lady for her generous
+assistance which it merited from him; but she easily forgave any
+unpoliteness he might be guilty of on that score; and he so well attoned
+for it after he had given vent to the sudden emotions of his joy, that
+she looked, upon him as the most accomplished, as well as the most
+faithful of his sex. They had entered into some discourse of the rules
+of the monastry, and how impossible it would have been for him to have
+gained an interview with mademoiselle Charlotta, but by the means she
+had contrived;--she told him that young lady had seen him for several
+days, and not doubling but it was for her sake he came, had resolved to
+run any risque rather than he should depart without obtaining so small a
+consolation as the sight of her was capable of affording. Horatio, by
+the most passionate expressions, testified how dearly he prized what she
+had seemed to think of so little value, when the expected charmer of his
+soul drew near the grate.--All that can be conceived of tender and
+endearing past between them; but when he related to her the occasion of
+his coming, and that change of life he now was entering upon, she
+listened to him with a mixture of pleasure and anxiety:--she rejoiced
+with him on the great prospects he had in view; but the terror of the
+dangers he was plunging in was all her own. She was far, however, from
+discouraging him in his designs, and concealed not her admiration of the
+greatness of his spirit, and that love of glory which seemed to render
+him capable of undertaking any thing.
+
+But when she heard in what manner her father had treated him, she was
+all astonishment: as she knew his temper perfectly well, she was certain
+he would not have acted in the manner he did without being influenced to
+it by a very strong liking for Horatio; for tho' gratitude for the good
+office he had received at his hands might have engaged him to make some
+requital, yet there were several expressions which Horatio, who
+remembered all he said, with the utmost exactness repeated to her, that
+convinced her he would not have made use of, if he had not meant the
+person better than he at present would have him think he did; and that
+there was in reality nothing restrained him from making them as happy as
+their mutual affection could desire, but the pride of blood and the talk
+of the world, which the disparity of their present circumstances would
+occasion. As she doubted not but the courage and virtue of Horatio would
+remove that impediment, by acquiring a promotion sufficient to
+countenance his pretensions, she had now no other disquiet than what
+arose from her fears for his safety, which she over and over repeated,
+conjuring him, in the most tender terms, not to hazard himself beyond
+what the duties of his post obliged him to:--this, said she, shall be
+the test of my affection to you; for whenever I hear you run yourself
+into unnecessary dangers, I will conclude from that moment you have
+ceased to remember, or pay any regard to my injunctions or repose.
+
+Horatio kissed her hand thro' the grate, and told her, he would always
+set too great a value on a life she was so good to with the continuance
+of, not to take all the care of it that honour would admit; but she
+would not give him leave to add any asseverations to this promise,
+which, said she, you will every day be tempted to break;--the
+enterprizing disposition of the prince you are going to serve, added to
+your own sense of glory, will make it very difficult for you not to be
+the foremost in following wherever his royal example leads the way:--nor
+would I wish you to purchase security by the price of infamy; but as you
+go in a manner such as will in all probability place you near his
+person, methinks it would be easy for you, by now and then mentioning
+the princess Louisa, to rouse in him these soft emotions which might
+prevent him from too rashly exposing a life she had so great an
+interest in.
+
+How great a pity was it this tender conversation between two persons who
+had so pure a passion for each other, who had been absent for some time,
+and who knew not when, or whether ever they should meet again, could not
+be indulged with no longer continuance! but now mademoiselle du Pont,
+who had been so good as to stand at some little distance, while they
+entertained each other, as a watch to give them notice of any
+interruption, now warned them that they must part:--divine service was
+over, and the abbess and nuns were returning from chapel.
+
+Short was the farewel the lovers took; mademoiselle Charlotta had told
+him it would be highly improper he should run the hazard of a discovery
+by coming there a second time, which would probably incense her father
+so much, as to convert all the favourable intentions he now might have
+towards them into the reverse, and he was therefore oblig'd to content
+himself with printing with his lips the seal of his affection on her
+hand, which he had scarce done before, on a second motion by
+mademoiselle du Pont, she shot suddenly from the place and went to her
+chamber, that no suspicions might arise on her being found so well as to
+have been able to quit it.
+
+As he had passed for the brother of mademoiselle du Pont, she stayed
+some little time with him: this lady, whom Charlotta in this exigence
+had made her confidant, had a great deal of good nature, and seeing the
+agony Horatio was in, endeavoured to console him by all the arguments
+she thought might have force;--she told him, that in the short time she
+had been made partaker of mademoiselle Charlotta's secrets, she had
+expressed herself with a tenderness for him, with which he ought to be
+satisfied, and that she was convinced nothing would ever be capable of
+making the least alteration in her sentiments.
+
+While she was speaking in this manner, Horatio remembered that he had
+not given Charlotta her tablet, which he now took out of his pocket, and
+with the same pencil she had made use of, and which was fastened to it,
+wrote in the next leaf to that she had employed these words;
+
+
+"I go, most dear, and most adorable Charlotta;
+whether to live or die I know not, but which
+ever is my portion, the passion I have for you is
+rooted in my soul, and will be equally immortal:
+life can give no joy but in the hope of being
+yours, nor death any terrors but being separated
+from you:--O! let nothing ever prevail on
+you to forget so perfect an attachment; but in
+the midst of all the temptations you may be
+surrounded with, think that you have vouch-safed
+to encourage my hopes, presuming as they
+are, and if once lost to them, what must be the
+destiny of
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+Having thus poured out some part of the over-flowings of his heart, he
+entreated mademoiselle du Pont to give it her, which she assured him she
+would not only do, but also be a faithful monitor for him during the
+whole time she should be happy enough to enjoy the company of that lady.
+Horatio having now fulfilled all his passion required of him, quitted
+Rheines the next day, no less impatient to pursue his other
+mistress, glory!
+
+But let us now see in what manner his beautiful sister Louisa, whom we
+left at Vienna, was all this while engaged.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XII.
+
+_Continuation of the adventures of Louisa: her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some accidents that there
+befel them_.
+
+Not all the gaieties of the court of Vienna had power to attach the
+heart of Melanthe, after she heard that a great number of young
+officers, just returned from the campaign in Italy, and other persons of
+condition, were going to Venice, in order to partake the diversions of
+the near approaching carnival: she was for following pleasure every
+where, and having seen all that was worth observing in Germany, was
+impatient to be gone where new company and new delights excited her
+curiosity.
+
+Having therefore obtained proper passports, they set out in company with
+several others who were taking the same rout, and by easy journeys thro'
+Tyrol, at length arrived at that republic, so famous over all Europe for
+its situation, antiquity, and the excellence of its constitution.
+
+Here seemed to be at this time an assemblage of all that was to be found
+of grand and polite in the whole christian world; but none appeared with
+that splendor and magnificence as did Lewis de Bourbon, prince of Conti:
+he had in his train above fifty noblemen and gentlemen of the best
+families in France, who had commissions under him in the army, and
+seemed proud to be of his retinue, less for his being of the blood
+royal, than for the many great and amiable qualities which adorned his
+person. This great hero had been a candidate with Augustus, elector of
+Saxony, for the crown of Poland; but the ill genius of that kingdom
+would not suffer it to be governed by a prince whose virtues would
+doubtless have rendered it as flourishing and happy as it has since that
+unfortunate rejection been impoverished and miserable. Bigotted to a
+family whose designs are plainly to render the crown hereditary, they
+not only set aside that great prince, under the vain and common-place
+pretence, that on electing him they might be too much under the
+influence of France; but also afterward, as resolved to push all good
+fortune from them with both hands, refused Stanislaus, a native of
+Poland, a strict observer of its laws, and a man to whose courage,
+virtue, and every eminent qualification even envy itself could make no
+objection, and thereby rendered their country the seat of war and
+theatre of the most terrible devastations of all kinds. But of this
+infatuation of the Poles I shall have occasion hereafter to speak more
+at large, and should not now have made any mention of it, had not the
+presence of that hero, whom they first rejected, rendered it the general
+subject of discourse at Venice. Numberless were the instances he gave of
+a magnanimity and greatness of mind worthy of a more exalted throne than
+that of Poland; but I shall only mention one, which, like the thumb of
+Hercules, may serve to give a picture of him in miniature.
+
+Having the good fortune one night to win a very great sum at a public
+gaming, just as he sweep'd the stakes, a noble Venetian, who by some
+casualties in life was reduced in his circumstances, could not help
+crying out, heavens! how happy would such a chance have made me! these
+words, which the extreme difficulties he was under forced from him,
+without being sensible himself of what he said, were over-heard by the
+prince, who turning hastily about, instead of putting the money into his
+own pocket, presented it to him, saying, I am doubly indebted to chance,
+sir, which has made me master of this; since it may be of service to
+you, I beseech you therefore to accept it with the respects of a prince,
+whose greatest pleasure in life is to oblige a worthy person.
+
+It would take up too much time to expatiate on the grateful
+acknowledgments made by the Venetian, or the admiration which the report
+of this action being immediately spread, occasioned; but, added to
+others of a little less conspicuous nature, it greatly served to
+convince those who before were ignorant of it, how blind the Polanders
+had been to their own interest.
+
+Among the concourse of nobility and gentry, whom merely the love of
+pleasure had drawn hither, and for that end were continually forming
+parties, Melanthe never failed of making one either in one company or
+other: Louisa, whom that lady still treated with her former kindness, or
+rather with an increase of it, was also seldom absent, and when she was
+so, the fault was wholly her own inclination: but in truth, that hurry
+of incessant diversion, which at first had seemed so ravishing to her
+young and unexperienced mind, began, by a more perfect acquaintance with
+it, to grow tiresome to her, and she rather chose sometimes to retire
+with a favourite book into her closet, than to go to the most elegant
+entertainment.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that her disposition was rather inclined to
+serious than the contrary, and that, joined with the reflections which
+her good understanding was perpetually presenting her with, on the
+uncertainty of her birth, the precariousness of her dependance, and her
+enforced quitting the only person from whom she could expect the means
+of any solid establishment in the world, had rendered her sometimes
+extremely thoughtful, even in the midst of those pleasures that are
+ordinarily most enchanting to one of her sex and age. But as she never
+was elated with the respect paid to her supposed condition, so she never
+was mortified with the consciousness of her real one, to a behaviour
+such as might have degraded the highest birth; neither appearing to
+expect it, or be covetous of honours, nor meanly ashamed of accepting
+them when offered. And while by this prudent management she secured
+herself from any danger of being insulted whenever it should be known
+who she was, she also gave no occasion for any one to make too deep an
+enquiry into her descent or fortune.
+
+But now the time was arrived when those deficiencies gave her more
+anxiety than hitherto they had done; and love in one moment filled her
+with those repinings at her fate, which neither vanity or ambition would
+ever have had power to do.
+
+Melanthe here, as at Vienna, received the visits of all whose birth,
+fortune, or accomplishments, gave them a pretence; but there was none
+who paid them so frequently, or which she encouraged with so much
+pleasure as those of the count de Bellfleur, a French nobleman belonging
+to the above-mentioned prince of Conti: she often told Louisa, when they
+were alone, that there was something in the air and manner of behaviour
+of this count, which had so perfect a resemblance with that of Henricus,
+that tho' it reminded her of that once dear and perfidious man, she
+could not help admiring and wishing a frequent sight of him. This was
+spoke at her first acquaintance with him; but after some little time she
+informed her, that he had declared a passion for her. He is not only
+like Henricus in his person, said she, but appears to have the same
+inclinations also:--he pretends to adore me, continued she with a sigh,
+and spares no vows nor presents to assure me of it:--something within
+tempts me to believe him, and yet I fear to be a second time betrayed.
+
+Ah! madam, cried Louisa, in the sincerity of her heart, I beseech you to
+be cautious how you too readily give credit to the protestations of a
+sex, who, by the little observations I have made, take a pride in
+deceiving ours;--besides, the count de Bellfleur is of a nation where
+faith, I have heard, is little to be depended on.
+
+Those who give them that character, replied Melanthe, do them an
+infinite injustice:--in politics, I allow, they have their artifices,
+their subterfuges, as well as in war; but then they put them in practice
+only against their enemies, or such as are likely to become
+so:--wherever they love, or have a friendship, their generosity is
+beyond all bounds.--
+
+She pursued this discourse with a long detail of all she had ever read
+or heard in the praise of the French, and did not forget to speak of the
+prince of Conti as an instance of the gallant spirit with which that
+people are animated.
+
+Louisa knew her temper, and that it would be in vain to urge any thing
+in contradiction to an inclination she found she was resolved to
+indulge; but she secretly trembled for the consequence, the count having
+said many amorous things to herself before he pretended any passion for
+Melanthe; and tho' he had of late desisted on finding how little she was
+pleased with them, yet that he had done so was sufficient to convince
+her he was of a wavering disposition. Melanthe was not, however, to be
+trusted with this secret; she loved him, and jealousy, added to a good
+share of vanity, would, instead of engaging any grateful return for a
+discovery of that nature, have made her hate the person he had once
+thought of as worthy of coming in any competition with herself. She
+therefore indeed thought it best not to interfere in the matter, but
+leave the event wholly to chance.
+
+The evening on the day in which this discourse had past between them,
+they went to a ball, to which they had been invited by one of the
+Magnifico's. The honour of the prince's company had been requested; but
+he excused himself on account, as it was imagined, of his being engaged
+with a certain German lady, who also being absent, gave room for this
+conjecture: most of the gentlemen who had followed his highness from
+France were there, among whom was the count de Bellfleur, and a young
+gentleman called monsieur du Plessis, who, by a fall from his horse, had
+been prevented from appearing in public since his arrival. The
+gracefulness of his person, the gallant manner in which he introduced
+himself, and the brilliant things he said to the ladies, on having been
+so long deprived of the happiness he now enjoyed, very much attracted
+the admiration of the company; but Louisa in particular thought she had
+never seen any thing so perfectly agreeable: a sympathy of sentiment,
+more than accident, made him chuse her for his partner in a grand dance
+then leading up; and the distinction now paid her by him gave her a
+secret satisfaction, which she had never known before on such an
+occasion, tho' often singled out by persons in more eminent stations.
+
+The mind which, whenever agitated by any degree of pain or pleasure,
+never fails to discover itself in the eyes, now sparkled in those of
+Louisa with an uncommon lustre, nor had less influence over all her
+air:--her motions always perfectly easy, gentle and graceful, especially
+in dancing, were now more spirituous, more alert than usual; and she so
+much excelled herself, that several, who had before praised her skill in
+this exercise, seemed ravished, as if they had seen something new and
+unexpected:--her partner was lavish in the testimonies of his
+admiration, and said, she as much excelled the ladies of his country, as
+they had been allowed to excel all others.
+
+The encomiums bestowed on her, and more particularly those she received
+from him, still added fresh radiance to her eyes, and at the same time
+diffused a modest blush in her checks which heightened all her
+charms.--Never had she appeared so lovely as at this time; and the count
+de Bellfleur, in spight of his attachment to Melanthe, felt in himself a
+strong propensity to renew those addresses which her reserved behaviour
+alone had made him withdraw and carry to another; but the lady to whom
+for some days past he had made a shew of devoting himself was present,
+and he was ashamed to give so glaring an instance of his infidelity,
+which must in all probability render him the contempt of both.
+
+This night, however, lost Melanthe the heart she had thought herself so
+secure of; but little suspecting her misfortune, she treated the
+inconstant count with a tenderness he was far from deserving; and having
+transplanted all the affection she once had for Henricus on this new
+object, told him, at a time that such discovery was least welcome to
+him, that she was not insensible of his merit, nor could be ungrateful
+to his passion, provided she could be convinced of the sincerity of it.
+He had gone too far with her now to be able to draw back, therefore
+could not avoid repeating the vows he before had made, tho' his heart
+was far from giving any asient to what his tongue was obliged to utter;
+but blinded by her own desires, she perceived not the change in his, and
+appointed him to come the next day to her lodgings, promising to be
+denied to all other company, that she might devote herself entirely
+to him.
+
+It is possible he was so lost in his passion for Louisa, as not to be
+sensible of the condescension made him by Melanthe; but it is certain,
+by the sequel of his behaviour, that he was much less so than he
+pretended.
+
+The ball being ended, these ladies carried with them very different
+emotions, tho' neither communicated to the other what she felt. Melanthe
+had a kind of awe for those virtuous principles she observed in Louisa,
+tho' so much her inferior and dependant, and was ashamed to confess her
+liking of the count should have brought her to such lengths; not that
+she intended to keep it always a secret from her, but chose she should
+find it out by degrees; and these thoughts so much engrossed her, that
+she said little to her that night. Louisa, for her part, having lost the
+presence of her agreeable partner, was busy in supplying that deficiency
+with the idea of him; so that each having meditations of her own of the
+most interesting nature, had not leisure to observe the thoughtfulness
+of the other, much less to enquire the motive of it.
+
+One of the great reasons that we find love so irresistable, is, that it
+enters into the heart with so much subtilty, that it is not to be
+perceived till it has gathered too much strength to be repulsed. If
+Louisa had imagined herself in any danger from the merits of monsieur du
+Plessis, she would at least have been less easily overcome by them:--she
+had been accustomed to be pleased with the conversation of many who had
+entertained her as he had done, but thought no more of them, or any
+thing they said, when out of their company; but it was otherways with
+her now: not a word he had spoke, not a glance he had given, but was
+imprinted in her mind:--her memory ran over every little action a
+thousand and a thousand times, and represented all as augmented with
+some grace peculiar to himself, and infinitely superior to any thing she
+had ever seen:--not even sleep could shut him out;--thro' her closed
+eyes she saw the pleasing vision; and fancy, active in the cause of
+love, formed new and various scenes, which to her waking thoughts were
+wholly strangers.
+
+Melanthe also past the night in ideas which, tho' experienced in, were
+not less ravishing: she was not of a temper to put any constraint on her
+inclinations; and having entertained the most amorous ones for the count
+de Bellfleur, easily overcame all scruples that might have hindered the
+gratification of them:--her head ran on the appointment she had made
+him:--the means she would take to engage his constancy,--resolved to
+sell the reversion of her jointure and accompany him to France, and
+flattered herself with the most pleasing images of a long series of
+continued happiness in the arms of him, who was now all to her that
+Henricus ever had been.
+
+Full of these meditations she rose, and soon after received from the
+subject of them a billet, containing these words:
+
+_To the charming_ MELANTHE.
+
+MADAM,
+
+"Tho' the transporting promise you made
+me of refusing admittance to all company
+but mine, is a new instance of your goodness,
+yet I cannot but think we should be still more
+secure from interruption at a place I have taken
+care to provide. Might I therefore hope you
+would vouchsafe to meet me about five in the
+evening at the dome of St. Mark, I shall be
+ready with a Gondula to conduct you to a recess,
+which seems formed by the god of love himself
+for the temple of his purest offerings, than which
+which none can be offered with greater passion
+and sincerity than those of the adorable Melanthe's
+
+_Most devoted, and
+Everlasting Slave_,
+DE BELLFLEUR.
+
+_P.S._. To prevent your fair friend Louisa from
+any suspicion on account of being left at
+home, I have engaged a gentleman to make
+her a visit in form, just before the time of
+your coming out:--favour me, I beseech
+you, with knowing if my contrivances in
+both these points have the sanction of your
+approbation."
+
+
+Tho' Melanthe, as may have been already observed in the foregoing part
+of her character, was no slave to reputation in England, and thought
+herself much less obliged to be so in a place where she was a stranger,
+and among people who, when she once quitted, she might probably never
+see again, yet she looked on this caution in her lover as a new proof of
+his sincerity and regard for her. She was also fond of every thing that
+had an air of luxury, and doubted not to find the elegance of the French
+taste in the entertainment he would cause to be prepared for her
+reception, therefore hesitated not a moment to send him the
+following answer:
+
+_To the engaging count_ DE BELLFLEUR.
+
+"Sensible, as you are, of the ascendant your
+merits have gained over me, you cannot
+doubt of my compliance with every thing that seems
+reasonable to you:--I will not fail to be
+at the place you mention; but oh! my dear
+count, I hope you will never give me cause to
+repent this step;--if you should, I must be
+the most miserable of all created beings; but I
+am resolved to believe you are all that man ought
+to be, or that fond tenacious woman can desire;
+and in that confidence attend with impatience
+the hour in which there shall be no more reserve
+between us, and I be wholly yours.
+
+MELANTHE."
+
+
+Thus every thing being fixed for her undoing, she spent the best part of
+the day in preparing for the rendezvous: nothing was omitted in the
+article of dress, which might heighten her charms and secure her
+conquest:--the glass was consulted every moment, and every look and
+various kind of languishment essayed, in order to continue in that which
+she thought would most become the occasion. As she ordinarily past a
+great deal of time in this employment, Louisa was not surprized that she
+now wasted somewhat more than usual; and the discourse they had together
+while she was dressing, and all the time of dinner, being very much on
+the ball and the company who were at it, her thoughts were so much taken
+up with the remembrance of du Plessis, that she perceived not the hurry
+of spirits which would else have been visible enough to her in all the
+words and motions of the other, and which increased in proportion as the
+hour of her appointment drew nearer.
+
+At length it arrived, and a servant came into the room and acquainted
+Louisa a gentleman desired to speak with her; she was a little
+surprized, it being usual for all those who visited there to expect
+their reception from Melanthe; but that lady, who doubted not but it was
+the same person the count had mentioned in his letter, prevented her
+from saying any thing, by immediately giving orders for the gentleman to
+be admitted.
+
+But with what strange emotions was the heart of Louisa agitated, when
+she saw monsieur du Plessis come into the room! and after paying his
+respects to Melanthe in the most submissive manner, accosted her, with
+saying he took the liberty of enquiring of her health after the fatigue
+of the last night; but, added he, the question, now I have the happiness
+of seeing you, is altogether needless; those fine eyes, and that
+sprightly air, declare you formed for everlasting gaiety, and that what
+is apt to throw the spirits of others into a languor, serves but to
+render yours more sparkling.
+
+Louisa, in spite of the confusion she felt within, answered this
+compliment with her accustomed ease; and being all seated, they began to
+enter into some conversation concerning the state with which the
+Magnifico's of Venice are served, the elegance with which they entertain
+strangers, and some other topics relating to the customs of that
+republic, when all on a sudden Melanthe starting up, cried, bless me! I
+had forgot a little visit was in my head to make to a monastery hard
+by:--you will excuse me, monsieur, continued she, I leave your partner
+to entertain you, and fancy you two may find sufficient matter of
+conversation without a third person. She had no sooner spoke this than
+she went out of the room, and left Louisa at a loss how to account for
+this behaviour, as she had not before mentioned any thing of going
+abroad. She would have imagined her vanity had been picqued that
+monsieur du Plessis had particularized her in this visit; but as she
+seemed in perfect good humour at going away, and knew she thought it
+beneath her to put any disguise on her sentiments, she was certain this
+sudden motion must have proceeded from some other cause, which as yet
+she could form no conjecture of.
+
+This deceived lady, however, was no sooner out of the room, than
+monsieur du Plessis drawing nearer to Louisa, how hard is my fate,
+madame, said he, in a low voice, that I am compelled to tell you any
+other motive than my own inclination has occasioned my waiting on
+you:--heaven knows it is an honour I should have sought by the lowest
+submissions, and all the ways that would not have rendered me unworthy
+of it; but I now come, madame, not as myself, but as the ambassador of
+another, and am engaged by my word and honour to plead a cause which, if
+I succeed in, must be my own destruction.
+
+Louisa was in the utmost consternation at the mystery which seemed
+contained in these words: she looked earnestly upon him while he was
+uttering the latter part, and saw all the tokens of a serious perplexity
+in his countenance, as well as in the accents with which he delivered
+them; but not being willing to be the dupe of his diversion, thought it
+best to answer as to a piece of railery, and told him, laughing, she
+imagined this was some new invention of the frolics of the season, but
+that she was a downright English-woman, understood nothing beyond plain
+speaking, and could no ways solve the riddle he proposed.
+
+What I say, may doubtless appear so, madame; replied she, and I could
+wish it had not been my part to give the explanation; but I cannot
+dispense with the promise I have made, and must therefore acquaint you
+with the history of it.
+
+After the ball, continued he, monsieur the count de Bellfleur desired me
+to accompany him to his lodgings, and, as soon as we were alone, told
+me, he had a little secret to acquaint me with, but that, before he
+revealed it, he must have the promise of my assistance. As he spoke this
+with a gay and negligent air, I imagined it a thing of no great
+consequence, or if it were, he was a man of too much honour, and also
+knew me too well to desire or expect I would engage in any thing
+unbecoming that character: indeed I could think of nothing but an amour
+or a duel, tho' I was far from being able to guess of what service I
+could be to him in the former. I was, however, unwarily drawn in to give
+my word, and he then made me the confident of a passion, which, he said,
+had received its birth from the first moment he beheld the Belle
+Angloise, for by that term, pursued he, bowing, he distinguished the
+adorable Louisa: that he had made some discovery of his flame, but that
+finding; himself rejected, as he thought, in too severe a manner, and
+without affording him opportunity to attest his sincerity, he had
+converted his addresses, tho' not his passion, to a lady who, he
+perceived, had the care of her, acting in this manner, partly thro'
+picque at your disdain, and partly to gratify his eyes with the sight of
+you, which he has reason to fear you had totally deprived him of but for
+this stratagem. He confessed to me that he found the object of his
+pretended ardours infinitely more kind than she who inspires the real
+ones: but this gratification of his vanity is of little consequence to
+his peace;--he engaged me to attend you this day, to conjure you to
+believe his heart is incapable of being influenced by any other charms,
+and whatever he makes shew of to Melanthe, his heart is devoted wholly
+to you,--begs you to permit him to entertain you without the presence of
+that lady, the means of which he will take care to contrive; and charged
+me to assure you, that there is no sacrifice so great, but he will
+readily offer it to convince you of the sincerity of his attachment.
+
+This, madame, added he, is the unpleasing task my promise bound me to
+perform, and which I have acquitted myself of with the same pain that
+man would do who, by some strange caprice of fate, was constrained to
+throw into the sea the sum of all his hopes.
+
+The indignation which filled the virtuous foul of Louisa, while he was
+giving her this detail of the count's presumption, falsehood, and
+ingratitude, prevented her from giving much attention to the apology
+with which he concluded. Never, since the behaviour of mr. B----n at
+mrs. C--g--'s, had she met with any thing that she thought so much
+merited her resentment:--so great was her disdain she had not words to
+express it, but by some tears, which the rising passion forced from her
+eyes:--Heaven! cried she, which of my actions has drawn on me this
+unworthy treatment?--This was all she was able to utter, while she
+walked backward and forward in the room endeavouring to compose herself,
+and form some answer befitting of the message.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis looked on her all this while with admiration: all
+that seemed lovely in her, when he knew no more of her than that she was
+young and beautiful, was now heightened in his eyes almost to divine, by
+that virtuous pride which shewed him some part of her more charming
+mind. What he extremely liked before, he now almost adored; and having,
+by the loose manner in which the count had mentioned these two English
+ladies, imagined them women of not over-rigid principles, now finding
+his mistake, at least as concerning one of them, was so much ashamed and
+angry with himself for having been the cause of that disorder he was
+witness of, that he for some moments was equally at a loss to appease,
+as she who felt was to express it.
+
+But being the first that recovered presence of mind; madame, I beseech
+you, said he, involve not the innocent with the guilty:--I acknowledge
+you have reason to resent the boldness of the count; but I am no
+otherwise a sharer in his crime than in reporting it; and if you knew
+the pain it gave my heart while I complied with the promise I was
+unhappily betrayed into, I am sure you would forgive the misdemeanor of
+my tongue.
+
+Sir, answered she, I can easily forgive the slight opinion one so much a
+stranger to me as yourself may have of me; but monsieur the count has
+been a constant visitor to the lady I am with, ever since our arrival at
+Venice; and am very certain he never found any thing in my behaviour to
+him or any other person, which could justly encourage him to send me
+such a message:--a message, indeed, equally affrontive to himself, since
+it shews him a composition of arrogance, vanity, perfidy, and every
+thing that is contemptible in man.--This, sir, is the reply I send him,
+and desire you to tell him withal, that if he persists in giving me any
+farther trouble of this nature, I shall let him know my sense of it in
+the presence of Melanthe.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis then assured her he would be no less exact in
+delivering what she said, than he had been in the observance of his
+promise to the other, and conjured her to believe he should do it with
+infinite more satisfaction. He then made use of so many arguments to
+prove, that a man of honour ought not to falsify his word, tho' given to
+an unworthy person, that she was at last won to forgive his having
+undertaken to mention any thing to her of the nature he had done.
+
+Indeed, the agitations she had been in were more owing to the vexation
+that monsieur du Plessis was the person employed, than that the count
+had the boldness to apply to her in this manner; but the submission she
+found herself treated with by the former, convincing her that he had
+sentiments very different from those the other had entertained of her,
+rendered her more easy, and she not only forgave his share in the
+business which had brought him there, but also permitted him to repeat
+his visits, on condition he never gave her any cause to suspect the mean
+opinion the count had of her conduct had any influence on him.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIII.
+
+_Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable passion for her:
+her sentiments and way of acting on that occasion_.
+
+After the departure of monsieur du Plessis, Louisa fell into a serious
+consideration of what had passed between them: not all the regard, which
+she could not hinder herself from feeling for that young gentleman, nor
+the pleasure she took in reflecting on the respect he paid her, made her
+unmindful of what she owed Melanthe: the many obligations she had
+received from her, and the friendship she had for her in return, made
+her think she ought to acquaint her with the baseness of the count de
+Bellfleur, in order to prevent an affection which she found she had
+already too much indulged from influencing her to grant him any farther
+favours; but this she knew was a very critical point to manage, and was
+not without some apprehensions, which afterward she experienced were but
+too well grounded; that when that lady found herself obliged to hate the
+man she took pleasure in loving, she would also hate the woman who was
+the innocent occasion of it. Few in the circumstances Louisa was, but
+would have been swayed by this consideration, and chose rather to see
+another become the prey of perfidy and deceit, than fall the victim of
+jealousy herself; but the generosity of her nature would not suffer it
+to have any weight with her, and she thought she could be more easy
+under any misfortunes the discovery might involve her in, than in the
+consciousness of not having discharged the obligations of duty and
+gratitude in revealing what seemed so necessary to be known.
+
+With this resolution, finding Melanthe was not come home, she went into
+her chamber in order to wait her return, and relate the whole history to
+her as she should undress for bed. But hour after hour elapsing without
+any appearance of the person she expected, she thought to beguile the
+tedious time by reading; and remembering that Melanthe had a very
+agreeable book in her hand that morning, she opened a drawer, where she
+knew that lady was accustomed to throw any thing in, which she had no
+occasion to conceal; but how great was her surprise when, instead of
+what she sought, she found the letter from count de Bellfleur which
+Melanthe, in the hurry of spirits, had forgot to lock up. As it lay open
+and was from him, she thought it no breach of honour to examine the
+contents, but in doing so was ready to faint away between grief and
+astonishment.
+
+She was not insensible that Melanthe was charmed with this new lover,
+and had always feared her liking him would sway her to some
+imprudencies, but could not have imagined it would have carried her, at
+least so soon, to such a guilty length as she now found it did.
+
+Convinced by the hour in which she went out, and alone, that she had
+complied with the appointment, and that all she would have endeavoured
+to prevent was already come to pass, she now considered that the
+discovery she had to make would only render this indiscreet lady more
+unhappy, and therefore no longer thought herself obliged to run any
+risque of incuring her ill-will on the occasion; but in her soul
+extremely lamented this second fall from virtue, which it was impossible
+should not bring on consequences equally, if not more shameful than
+the first.
+
+Good God! cried she, how is it possible for a woman of any share of
+sense, and who has been blessed with a suitable education, to run thus
+counter to all the principles of religion, honour, virtue, modesty, and
+all that is valuable in our sex? and yet that many do, I have been a
+melancholy witness:--and then again, what is there in this love, resumed
+she, that so infatuates the understanding, that we doat on our
+dishonour, and think ruin pleasing?--Can any personal perfections in a
+man attone for the contempt he treats us with in courting us to
+infamy!--the mean opinion he testifies to have of us sure ought rather
+to excite hate than love; our very pride, methinks, should be a
+sufficient guard, and turn whatever favourable thoughts we might have of
+such a one, unknowing his design, into aversion, when once convinced he
+presumed upon our weakness.
+
+In these kind of reasonings did she continue some time; but reflecting
+that the trouble she was in might put Melanthe on asking the cause, it
+seemed best to her to avoid seeing her that night, so retired to her own
+room and went to bed, ordering the servants to tell their lady, in case
+she enquired for her, that she was a little indisposed.
+
+While Louisa was thus deploring a misfortune she wanted power to remedy,
+the person for whom she was concerned past her time in a far different
+manner: the count omitted nothing that might convince her of his
+gallantry, and give her a pretence for flattering herself with his
+sincerity:--he swore ten thousand oaths of constancy, and she easily
+gave credit to what she wished and had vanity enough to think she
+merited:--he had prepared every thing that could delight the senses for
+her reception at the house to which he carried her; and she found in
+herself so little inclination to quit the pleasures she enjoyed, that it
+was as much as the little remains of decency and care of reputation
+could do, to make her tear herself away before midnight.
+
+In the fullness of her heart she had doubtless concealed no part of this
+adventure from Louisa, but on hearing she was gone to rest, and not very
+well, would not disturb her. The first thing she did in the morning was
+to run into the chamber and enquire after her health, which she did in
+so affectionate and tender a manner, that it very much heightened the
+other's trouble for her.
+
+It is certain that, setting aside too loose a way of thinking of virtue
+and religion, and adhering to that false maxim, that a woman of rank is
+above censure, Melanthe had many amiable qualities, and as she truly
+loved Louisa, was alarmed at her supposed indisposition, which, to
+conceal the perplexity her mind was in, she still continued to
+counterfeit, as well as to avoid going to a masquerade, to which they
+had some days before been invited, and which the present situation of
+her thoughts left her no relish for.
+
+Melanthe would fain have perswaded her that this diversion would
+contribute to restoring her; but she entreated to be excused, and the
+other went without her.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis in the mean time having informed the count de
+Bellfleur, how much it was in vain for him to flatter himself with any
+hopes of Louisa, that proud and inconstant nobleman was extremely
+mortified, and said, that since she was so haughty, he was resolved to
+contrive some way or other to get her into his power, as well out of
+revenge as inclination. This, the other represented to him, would be a
+very ungenerous way of proceeding; and said, that as she refused his
+addresses merely out of a principle of virtue, and not for the sake of a
+more favoured rival, he ought to content himself; but these arguments
+were lost on a man whom pride of blood, and an affluence of fortune, had
+rendered too insolent and head-strong to think any thing reason which
+opposed his will; and they parted not well satisfied with each other,
+tho' du Plessis concealed part of the dislike he had of his principles
+and manner of behaviour, on account of a long friendship between their
+families, and also as the count was his superior in birth, in years, and
+in the post he held in the army.
+
+He had no sooner left him than he came to Louisa, thinking it his duty
+to give her warning of the count's design, and that it would be a proper
+prelude to something else he had to say. As the servants knew she was
+not perfectly well, they told him, they believed she would see no
+company; but on his entreating it, and saying he had something of moment
+to impart, one of them went in and repeated what he had said, on which
+she gave leave for his admission.
+
+He rejoiced to find her alone, as he came prepared to reveal to her more
+secrets than that of the count's menace; but the pleasure he took in
+having so favourable an opportunity was very much damped, by seeing her
+look more pale than usual, and that she was in a night-dress. Fearful
+that this change proceeded from what had passed between them the day
+before, he asked with a hastiness, that shewed the most kind concern, if
+she were well. No otherways disordered, answered she, than in my mind,
+and that not sufficiently to have any effect over my health; but to
+confess the truth, monsieur, said she, the continual round of diversion
+this carnival affords, has made what the world calls pleasure, cease to
+be so with me; and I find more solid satisfaction in retirement, where I
+am in no danger of being too much flattered or affronted.
+
+Ah! madam, cried he, I see the audacity of the count dwells too much
+upon your thoughts, and tremble to relate the business on which I came,
+and which it is yet necessary you should know. You mistake me, monsieur,
+replied she; a common foe of virtue, such as the count, is incapable of
+taking up my thoughts one moment; it is only those I love can give me
+real pain.
+
+I understand you, madam, resumed he, and am too much interested in your
+concern not to simpathize on the occasion: the misfortunes, such as I
+fear will attend the too great sensibility of Melanthe, may give you so
+terrible an idea of love in general, that it will be difficult to
+persuade you there can be any lasting happiness to be found in that
+passion:--but, charming Louisa, continued he, if you will make the least
+use of your penetration, and examine with a desire of being convinced,
+you will easily distinguish the real passion from the counterfeit: that
+love, whose supremest pleasure is in being capable to give felicity to
+the beloved object; and that wild desire, which aims at no more than a
+self-gratification:--the one has the authority of heaven for its
+sanction;--the other no excuse but nature in its depravity. From all
+attempts of the one, I am confident, your virtue and good sense will
+always defend you; but to fly with too great obstinacy the other, is not
+to answer the end of your creation; and deny yourself a blessing, which
+you seem formed to enjoy in the most extensive degree.
+
+Both the voice and manner in which monsieur du Plessis spoke, gave
+Louisa some suspicion of what he aimed at in this definition, and filled
+her at the same time with emotions of various kinds; but dissembling
+them as well as she could, and endeavouring to turn what he said into
+raillery, you argue very learnedly on this subject, it must be
+confessed, answered she smiling; but all you can urge on that head, nor
+the compliment you make me, can win me to believe that love of any kind
+is not attended with more mischief than good:--where it is accompanied
+with the strictest honour, constancy, purity, and all the requisites
+that constitute what is called a perfect passion, there are ordinarily
+so many difficulties in the way to the completion of its wishes, that
+the breast which harbours it must endure a continual agitation, which
+surely none would chuse to be involved in.
+
+Ah! madam, how little are you capable of judging of this passion, said
+he; there is a delicacy in love which renders even its pains pleasing,
+and how much soever a lover suffers, the thoughts of for whom he suffers
+is more than a compensation; I am myself an instance of this truth:--I
+am a lover:--conscious unworthiness of a suitable return of affection,
+and a thousand other impediments lie between me and hope, yet would I
+not change this dear anxiety for that insipid case I lived in before I
+saw the only object capable of making me a convert to love.--It is
+certain my passion is yet young; but a few days has given it root which
+no time, no absence, no misfortune ever can dislodge.--The charming maid
+is ignorant of her conquest:--the carnival draws near to a
+conclusion.--I must return to the army, and these cruel circumstances
+oblige me either to make a declaration which she may possibly condemn as
+too abrupt, or go and leave her unknowing of my heart, and thereby
+deprive myself even of her pity:--Which party, madam, shall I
+take?--Will the severe extreme, to which I am driven, be sufficient to
+attone for a presumption which else would merit her disdain?
+
+Louisa must have been as dull as she was really the contrary, not to
+have known all this was meant to herself; and the pleasing confusion
+which this discovery infused thro' all her veins, made her at the same
+time sensible of the difference she put between him and all those who
+before had entertained her on that subject; but not knowing presently
+whether she ought to attribute it to her good or ill fortune, she was
+wholly at a loss how to behave, and, to avoid giving any direct answer,
+still affected an air of pleasantry.
+
+See, cried she, the little reason you, have to speak in the praise of
+love; for if pity be all you have to hope for from your, mistress, I am
+afraid the consolation will be no way adequate to the misfortune.
+
+Yet if you vouchsafe me that, replied he, kissing her hard, I never
+shall complain. Me! interrupted she, pretending the utmost astonishment,
+and drawing her chair somewhat farther from him. Yes, beautiful Louisa,
+resumed he; it is you alone who have been capable of teaching me what
+love truly is:--your eyes, at first sight, subdued my heart; but your
+virtue has since made a conquest of my soul:--if I dare hope to make you
+mine, it is only by such ways as heaven, and those who have the power of
+disposing you, shall approve:--in the mean time I implore no more than
+your permission to admire you, and to convince you, by all the
+honourable services in my power to do you while you continue here, how
+much my words are deficient to denote my meaning.
+
+Louisa, now finding herself under a necessity of answering seriously,
+told him, that if it were true that he had sentiments for her of the
+nature he pretended, they would not only merit, but receive the most
+grateful acknowledgments on her part; but at the same time she should be
+sorry he had entertained them, and would wish him not to indulge a
+prospect which could last no longer than while both remained in Venice,
+and must infallibly vanish on their separation.
+
+No, madam, replied he, when the next campaign is over, I shall return to
+France; and sure the distance between that kingdom and England is not so
+great, but a less motive than yourself would easily carry me thither;
+and such credentials also of who, and what I am, as, I flatter myself,
+would not appear contemptible in the eyes of your friends:--the prospect
+therefore is not so visionary as you seem to think, provided I have
+your consent.
+
+The mention he made of her friends reminding her of her destitute
+condition, gave her the utmost shock; which not being able to overcome,
+she remained silent some moments; but at last perceiving he waited her
+reply, monsieur, said she, there may be a thousand indissoluble bars
+between us which you do not think of.
+
+None, interrupted he eagerly, but what such love as mine will easily
+surmount:--it is true, I am ignorant of your condition in the world; but
+if it be superior to mine, the passion I am possessed of will inspire me
+with means to raise me to an equality; and if inferior, which heaven
+grant may be the case, it will only give the opportunity of proving that
+I love Louisa for Louisa's self, and look upon every thing she brings
+beside as nothing.
+
+The emphasis he gave these words manifesting their sincerity, could not
+but give new charms to the person who spoke them: Louisa thought she
+might, without a blush, testify the sense she had of his generosity; but
+tho' what she said was perfectly obliging to him, yet she concluded with
+letting him know, there still was something that rendered the
+accomplishment of what he seemed to wish impossible.
+
+Then your heart already is engaged, cried he, or you are predestined by
+your parents to some happier man? Without either of these, answered she,
+there may be reasons to prevent our ever meeting more;--therefore I owe
+so much to the honourable offers you are pleased to make me, as to wish
+you to overcome whatever inclinations you may have for one who I once
+more assure you never can be yours.
+
+It would be impossible to express the distraction monsieur du Plessis
+testified at this expression:--a thousand times over did he repeat that
+dreadful word NEVER;--then added, neither engaged by love or promise,
+yet never can be mine! does my ill fate come wrap'd to me in
+riddles!--yet many things have seemed impossible that are not so in
+themselves:--O Louisa! continued he, if there be any thing beside my
+want of merit that impedes my wishes, and you delight not in my torment,
+speak it I conjure you.
+
+There is a necessity of denying you in this also, said Louisa; but to
+shew you how little I am inclined to be ungrateful, be certain that I
+have the highest idea of your merits, and prize them as much as I
+ought to do.
+
+These last words, obliging as they were, could not console monsieur du
+Plessis for the cruelty, as he termed it, of refusing to let him know
+what this invincible obstacle was which put a stop to any further
+correspondence between them: he spared neither prayers nor tears to draw
+the secret from her, but all were ineffectual; and she at last told him,
+that if he pressed her any farther on that head, she must for the future
+avoid his presence.
+
+This was a menace which he had not courage to dare the execution of, and
+he promised to conform to her will, tho' with such agonies, as shewed
+her how much he valued even the little she was pleased to grant; but it
+was not in the power of her perswasions to prevail on him to resolve to
+make any efforts for the vanquishing his passion; he still protested
+that he neither could cease to love her, and her alone, nor even to wish
+an alteration in his sentiments.
+
+By what has been already said of the extreme liking which the first
+fight of this young gentleman inspired Louisa with, it may easily be
+supposed she could not hear his complaints, and be witness of the
+anxieties she was enforced to inflict on him, without feeling at least
+an equal share: she endeavoured not to conceal the pity she had for him;
+but he now found that was far from being all he wanted, because it
+forwarded not, as he at first imagined, the progress of his hopes, but
+rather shewed them at more distance than ever.
+
+The business of his love so engrossed his thoughts during this visit,
+that he almost forgot to mention any thing of the count's designs upon
+her, and she as little remembered to remind him of it, tho' he told her
+on his entrance, that he had something to acquaint her with on his
+subject, and it was not till he was going to take leave that it came
+into his head. When he had related it to her, she assured him that she
+took the caution he gave her as a new proof of his friendship, which,
+said she, I shall always prize. At parting, she permitted him to salute
+her, and gave her promise not to refuse seeing him while they continued
+in that city; but told him at the same time, that he must not expect any
+thing from his repeated visits more than she had already granted.
+
+He durst not at that time press her any farther, but fetched a deep sigh
+as he went out of the room, accompanied with a look more expressive than
+any words could be of the discontent he laboured under, while she,
+oppressed beneath the double weight of his and her own grief, remained
+in a condition he was little able to form any conjecture of.
+
+Pleased as she was with the presence of the only man who had ever had
+power of inspiring her with one tender thought, yet a thousand times she
+had wished him gone before he went, that she might be at liberty to give
+vent to the struggling passions which were more than once ready to throw
+her into a swoon. The perfections she saw in the person of her
+lover;--the respect he treated her with, notwithstanding the violence of
+the passion he was possessed of;--the sincerity that appeared in all his
+looks and words;--the generosity of his behaviour in regard to her
+fortune;--all the qualifications that would have made any other woman
+blessed in the offer of such a heart, served but to make her wretched,
+since she could not look on herself in a condition capable of
+accepting it.
+
+Alas! du Plessis, cried she, little do you think to whom you would ally
+yourself:--you would, you say, despise a portion, but would you marry a
+foundling, a child of charity, one that has neither name nor friends,
+and who, in her best circumstances, is but a poor dependant, a servant
+in effect, tho' not in shew, and owes her very cloaths to the bounty of
+another?--Oh! why did the mistaken goodness of Dorilaus give me any
+other education than such as befitted my wretched fortune! Better I had
+been bred an humble drudge, and never been taught how to distinguish
+merit:--What avail the accomplishments that cost him so much money, and
+me so much pains to acquire, but to attract a short-liv'd admiration,
+which, when I am truly known, will be succeeded with an adequate
+derision:--Could I but say I was descended from honest, tho' mean
+parents, I would not murmur at my fate, but I have none,--none to own
+me;--I am a nothing,--a kind of reptile in humanity, and have been shewn
+in a genteel way of life only to make my native misery more conspicuous.
+
+Thus did love represent her unhappy circumstances in their worst
+colours, and render her, which till now she had never been, thankless to
+heaven for all the good she had received, since it seemed to deny her
+the only good her passion coveted, that of being in a condition to
+reward the affection of her dear du Plessis.
+
+A torrent of tears at length somewhat mitigated the violence of her
+passion, and unwilling to be seen by Melanthe in the present confusion
+of her thoughts, she went to bed, leaving the same orders as she had
+done the night before.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIV.
+
+_The base designs of the count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy change
+in Louisa's way of life; the generous behaviour of monsieur du Plessis
+on that occasion._
+
+Had the agonies Louisa suffered been of very long continuance, she must
+have sunk under them; but grief is easily dissipated in a young heart,
+and she awoke more tranquil.--The principles of religion grew stronger
+as her passion weaker, and she reflected that she ought to submit in
+every thing to the will of heaven, which sometimes converts what seems
+the greatest evil into good.--The offer of such a match as monsieur du
+Plessis, a man she loved, and who was master of accomplishments which
+might excuse the most violent passion, appeared indeed a happiness she
+would have gloried in had she been really such as he took her for; but
+then she had known him but a very short time, had no experience of his
+principles or humour; and tho' he seemed all honour, could not assure
+herself that the generosity which so much engaged her might not be all
+artifice; at least she found to think so would most contribute to her
+ease, therefore indulged it as much as she was able. She condemned
+herself for having given monsieur du Plessis permission to continue his
+visits, after having assured him he had nothing to hope from them,
+because a further conversation might only serve to render both more
+unhappy. She resolved however to give him no opportunity of talking to
+her of his passion, and in order to avoid thinking of it herself as much
+as possible, to go, as usual, into all company that came to Melanthe,
+and partake of every diversion that offered itself.
+
+Accordingly she forced herself to a gaiety, she was far from feeling,
+vainly imagining that by counterfeiting a chearfulness, she should in
+time be able to resume it; but du Plessis hung too heavy at her heart,
+and when she affected the greatest shew of mirth, it was often
+interrupted with sighs, which she was not always sensible of herself. He
+visited her almost every day under one pretence or other; but she took
+such care never to be alone at the times that she could possibly expect
+him, that he had not the least opportunity to renew his addresses, any
+otherways than by his looks, which, notwithstanding, were perfectly
+intelligible to her, tho' she seemed not to observe them.
+
+Melanthe, no longer able to keep the secret of her amour, finding
+Louisa, as she thought, had entirely regained her former sprightliness,
+acquainted her with all had passed between herself and count de
+Bellfleur; which, tho' the other was no stranger to, she seemed
+astonished at, and could not help telling her, that she feared the
+consequence of an intrigue of that nature would one day be fatal to her
+peace. Yet, said Melanthe, where one loves, and is beloved, it is hard
+to deny oneself a certain happiness for the dread of an imaginary
+ill.--In fine, my dear Louisa, I found I could not live without him; and
+heaven will sure excuse the error of an inclination which is born with
+us, and which not all our reason is of force to conquer.--But, added
+she, you always seem to speak of the count, as of a man that wanted
+charms to excuse the tenderness I have for him; and, I have observed,
+deny him those praises which I have heard you bestow very freely on
+persons that have not half his merit.
+
+Louisa knowing how vain it was to contest with inclination, in persons
+who are resolved to indulge it, and also that all advice was now too
+late, began to repent of what she said. If, madam, replied she, after a
+little pause, I have seemed unjust to the count's perfections, it was
+only because I feared you were but too sensible of them; for otherwise,
+it must be owned, he has a person and behaviour extremely engaging; but
+as the carnival will put an end to all the acquaintance we have
+contracted here, it gives me pain to think how you will support a
+separation.
+
+Perhaps it may not happen so soon as you imagine, said Melanthe:--tho'
+the carnival, and with it all the pleasures of this place will soon be
+over, our loves may be continued elsewhere:--suppose, Louisa, we go to
+France, added she with a significant smile, that shewed it was her
+intention to do so.
+
+Some company coming in, prevented any farther discourse on this head for
+the present; but afterward she confirmed what she had now hinted at, and
+told Louisa, that she had resolved to pass some little time in seeing
+those places which were in her way to France, and afterwards meet the
+count at Paris, on his return from the campaign. Louisa, unable to
+determine within herself whether she ought to rejoice, or be sad at this
+intended journey, fell into a sudden thoughtfulness, which the other at
+that time took no notice of, but it served afterwards to corroborate the
+truth of something she was told, and proved of consequence little to
+be foreseen.
+
+The inconstant count, in the mean time, satieted with Melanthe, and as
+much in love with Louisa as a man of his temper could be, was contriving
+all the ways his inventive wit could furnish him with to get handsomely
+rid of the one, and attain the enjoyment of the other. As he had spent
+many years in a continual course of gallantry, and had made and broke a
+thousand engagements, he easily found expedients for throwing off his
+intercourse with Melanthe, but none that could give him the least
+prospect of success in his designs on Louisa while they lived together
+and continued friends: to part them therefore was his aim, and to
+accomplish it the following method came into his head.
+
+On his first acquaintance with these ladies his design was wholly on
+Louisa, but meeting a rebuff from her, his vanity rather than his
+inclinations had made him turn his devoirs to Melanthe, who too easily
+yielding to his suit, served but to heighten his desires for the other:
+the extravagant fondness of that unhappy woman rendering her visibly
+uneasy at even the ordinary civilities she saw him behave with to any
+other, discovered to him that jealousy was not the least reigning foible
+of her foul, and the surest means to make her hate that person whom it
+was not the interest of his passion she should continue to love. When
+they were alone together one day at the place of their usual rendezvous,
+in the midst of the most tender endearments, he asked suddenly if she
+had ever made Louisa the confident of his happiness. She was a little
+surprized at the question, but answered that she had not, and desired to
+know the reason of that demand; because, cried he, I am very certain she
+is no friend to our loves; and by the manner in which she behaves to me,
+whenever she has the least opportunity of shewing her ill humour, I
+imagined she either knew or suspected the affair between us.
+
+Melanthe, conscious she had hid nothing from her, and also sensible of
+the little approbation she gave to her intrigue, was very much picqued
+that she should have done any thing to make the count perceive
+it;--whatever she suspects, cried she, haughtily, she ought not to treat
+with any ill manners a person whom I avow a friendship for. Vanity,
+answered he, sometimes gets the better of discretion in ladies of her
+years:--she knows herself handsome, and cannot have a good opinion of
+the man who prefers any charms to her own.--I imagine this to be the
+cause why she looks on me with such disdain, and, whenever you are not
+witness of her words, is so keen in satyrical reflections.--On our first
+acquaintance she looked and spoke with greater softness, and I can
+impute it to no other motive than the pride of beauty, that this sudden
+change has happened.
+
+All the time he was speaking, the soul of Melanthe grew more and more
+fired with jealousy.--It is natural for every one to imagine whatever
+they like is agreeable to others. The distaste which Louisa had on many
+occasions testified for the count, seemed now to have been only
+affected:--the melancholy she had been in, and the deep resvery she
+remembered she had fallen into when first she informed her of their
+amour, joined to convince her, that the advice she gave proceeded from a
+motive very different from what she pretended.
+
+The wily count saw into the workings of her soul; and while he seemed as
+if he would not discover the whole of his sentiments for fear of
+disobliging her, threw out the plainest hints, that Louisa had made him
+advances which would have been very flattering to a heart not
+pre-engaged, till Melanthe, not able to contain her rage, broke out into
+the fevered invectives against the innocent Louisa.--The ungrateful
+wretch! cried she, how dare she presume to envy, much less to offer an
+interruption to my pleasures!--What, have I raised the little wretch to
+such a forgetfulness of herself, that she pretends to rival her mistress
+and benefactress! In the height of her resentment, she related to the
+count in what manner she had taken her into her service; but that
+finding her, as she imagined, a girl of prudence, she had made her a
+companion during her travels, and as such treated her with respect, and
+made others do so too;--but, said she, I will reduce her to what she
+was, and since she knows not how to prize the honour of my friendship,
+make her feel the severities of servitude.
+
+Nothing could be more astonishing, and at the same time more pleasing to
+count Bellfleur than this discovery: what he felt for Louisa could not
+be called love, he desired only to enjoy her; and the knowledge of her
+meanness, together with Melanthe's resentment, which he doubted not but
+he should be able to improve to the turning her out of doors, made him
+imagine she would then be humbled enough to accept of any, offers he
+might make her.
+
+Pursuant to this cruel aim, he told Melanthe, that now not thinking
+himself under any obligation to conceal the whole of the affair, he must
+confess Louisa had not only made him advances, but gone so far as to
+discover a very great passion for him.--As I had never, said he, given
+her the least room to hope I was ambitious of any favours from her of
+that nature, I could not help thinking she was guilty of some
+indecencies ill-becoming a woman of condition, as well as infidelity to
+her friendship for you, whom she might well see I adored:--but alas! I
+little suspected the obligations she had to you, and now I know what she
+is, am in the utmost consternation at her ingratitude, impudence and
+stupidity. Heavens! added he, could she have the vanity to imagine that
+the genteel garb you had put her in, could raise her to such an
+equality, as to make me hesitate one moment if I should give the balance
+of merit on her side, and quit the amiable Melanthe for the pert charms
+of her woman?
+
+Melanthe, believing every thing he said on this occasion, was ready to
+burst with indignation; which impatient to give vent to, parted from her
+lover much sooner than she was accustomed, in order to wreak on the poor
+Louisa all that rage and malice could suggest.
+
+That innocent maid, little suspecting the misfortune that was falling on
+her, was at ombre with some ladies who came to visit them, when the
+furious Melanthe came home, and taking this opportunity of heightening
+her intended revenge by making it more public,--so, minx, said she to
+her, after having made her compliments to the company, you ape the woman
+of fashion exceeding well, as you imagine; but hereafter know yourself,
+and keep the distance that becomes you. With these words she gave her a
+push from the table in so rough a manner, that the cards fell out of
+her hand.
+
+It is hard to say whether Louisa herself, or the ladies who were
+present, were most astonished at this behaviour; every one looked one
+upon another without speaking for some time: at last Louisa, who wanted
+not spirit, and on this occasion testified an uncommon presence of
+mind,--if I have seemed otherways than what I am, madam, said she, it
+was your commands obliged me to it:--I never yet forgot myself, and
+shall as readily resume what distance you are pleased to enjoin me.
+Insolent, ungrateful wretch, cried Melanthe, vexed to the soul to find
+her seem so little shocked at what she had done, if I permitted you any
+liberties, it was because I thought you merited them;--but get out of my
+sight, and dare not to come into it again till I send for you. I shall
+obey you, madam, replied Louisa, and perhaps be as well pleased to be
+your servant as companion.
+
+This resignation and seeming tranquility under an insult, she expected
+would have been so mortifying, was the greatest disappointment could be
+given to Melanthe, and increased her rage to such a degree, that she
+flew to her as she was going out of the room, and struck her several
+blows, using at the same time expressions not decent to repeat, but
+such, as in some unguarded moments, women of quality level themselves
+with the vulgar enough to be guilty of. This is a behaviour, madam,
+which demeans yourself much more than me, said Louisa, and when reason
+gets the better of your passion, I doubt not but you will be just enough
+to acknowledge you have injured me.
+
+She got out of the room with these words, but heard Melanthe still
+outrageous in her reproaches; but determined not to answer, made what
+haste she could into her own chamber, where having shut herself in, she
+gave a loose to the distraction so unexpected an event must
+naturally occasion.
+
+Pride is a passion so incident to human nature, that there is no breast
+whatever that has not some share of it; and it would be to describe
+Louisa such as no woman ever was, or ever can be, especially at her
+years, to say she was not sensibly touched at the indignity she had
+received from a person, but a few hours before, had treated her as
+pretty near an equality with herself.--Nor was her amazement inferior to
+her grief, when after examining, with the utmost care, all her words and
+actions, she could find nothing in either that could possibly give
+occasion for this sudden turn.
+
+From the present, she cast thoughts back on the past accidents of her
+life, and comparing them together, how cruelly capricious is my fate,
+said she, which never presents me with a good but to be productive of an
+adequate evil!--How great a blessing was the protection and tenderness I
+found from Dorilaus, yet how unhappy did the too great increase of that
+tenderness render, me!--What now avails all the friendship received from
+Melanthe, but to make me the less able to support her ill usage!--And
+what, of what advantage is it to me that I am beloved by a man the most
+worthy to be loved, since I am of a condition which forbids me to give
+any encouragement to his, or my own wishes!
+
+In this manner did she pour forth the troubles of her soul, till the
+hour of supper being arrived, Melanthe's woman knocked at the chamber,
+and Louisa having opened it, she told her that she was sorry to see such
+an alteration in the family, but it was her ladyship's pleasure that she
+should eat at the second table. It is very well, said Louisa, resolving,
+whatever she endured, not to let Melanthe see any thing she could do
+disturbed her too much, and in saying so, went with her into the hall
+and sat down to table, but with what appetite I leave the reader
+to guess.
+
+Melanthe, who now hated her to a greater degree than ever she had loved
+her, gave to the ladies who were with her the whole history of Louisa,
+as far as she knew of it, and rather aggravated, than any way softened
+the mean condition from which she had relieved her; but when they asked
+her what that unhappy creature had done to forfeit a continuance of her
+goodness, she only answered in general, that she had found her to be an
+ungrateful and perfidious wretch.
+
+As she mentioned no particular influence on which this accusation was
+grounded, every one was at liberty to judge of it as they pleased.--The
+accomplishments Louisa was mistress of, made every one convinced she had
+been educated in no mean way, tho' by some accidents she might have been
+reduced to the calamities Melanthe had so largely expatiated upon, and
+more there were who pitied her than approved the behaviour of her
+superior:--some indeed, who had envied the praises they had heard
+bestowed on her, were rejoiced at her fall, and made it a matter of
+mirth wherever they came;--and others again thought themselves affronted
+by having a person, who they now found was no more than a servant,
+introduced into their company, and would never visit Melanthe afterward
+the whole time she stayed in Venice.
+
+The affair, however, occasioned a great deal of discourse: monsieur du
+Plessis heard of it the next day related after different fashions. The
+concern he was in was conformable to the passion he had for the fair
+occasion, and both beyond what is ordinarily to be found in persons of
+his sex. Impatient to know the truth he went to Melanthe's, and she
+happening to be abroad, he desired to speak to Louisa, but was told she
+was indisposed, and could see no company. These orders had been given by
+Melanthe, but were very agreeable to Louisa herself, who desired to
+avoid the sight of every one she had conversed with in a different
+manner from what she could now expect; but of the whole world this
+gentleman she most wished to shun.
+
+He concealed the trouble he was in as well as he was able, and affecting
+a careless air, told the person who answered him, that he only came to
+ask if she had heard the last new song, and that he would send it
+to her.
+
+The moment he came home he sat down and wrote the following billet.
+
+_To the ever charming_ LOUISA.
+
+"That invincible bar you mentioned, yet
+made so great a secret of, is at last revealed,
+and I should be unworthy of the blessing I aspire
+to, if I were unable to surmount it.
+Cruel Louisa! you little know me, or the force
+of that passion you have inspired, to imagine
+that any difference which chance may have put
+between us, can make the least alteration in my
+sentiments!--It is to your own perfections I
+have devoted my heart, not to the merit or
+grandeur of your ancestors. What has my love
+to do with fortune, or with family!--Does a
+diamond lose any thing of its intrinsic value for
+being presented by an unknown, or an obscure
+hand?--My eyes convince me of the charms
+of my adored Louisa; my understanding shews
+me those of her mind; and if heaven vouchsafes
+to bless me with so rich a jewel, I never shall
+examine whence it came.--If therefore I am
+not so unhappy as to be hated by you, let not
+vain punctilloes divide us, and, as the first proof
+of my inviolable passion, permit me to remove
+you from a place where you have met with such
+unworthy treatment:--I hope you wrong me
+not so far as to suspect I any other designs
+on you than such as are consistent with the
+strictest honour; but to prevent all scruples of
+that nature from entering your gentle breast, I
+would wish to place you in a convent, the
+choice of which shall be your own, provided it
+may be where I sometimes may be allowed to
+pay my vows to you thro' the grate, till time
+shall have sufficiently proved my fidelity, and
+you shall prevail on yourself to recempence my
+flame, by bestowing on me your hand and heart:--the
+one I would not ask without the other;
+but both together would render the happiest of
+mankind.
+
+_Your eternally devoted_
+
+Du Plessis.
+
+_P.S._ As I perceive it will be next to an impossibility
+to gain a sight of you while you continue
+with that ungenerous woman, I entreat
+to know by a line how I stand in your opinion,
+and if the offers I make you, in the sincerity
+of my soul, may be thought worthy
+your acceptance."
+
+
+This epistle he ordered his valet de chambre to give to her own hand, if
+there were a possibility of it; and the fellow so well executed his
+commission, being acquainted with Melanthe's servants, that he was
+carried directly up to her chamber. She was a little surprized to see
+him, because she knew it was contrary to Melanthe's commands that any
+one should see her; and doubted not but to find she was treated with any
+kind of respect, would enhance her ill humour to her. But she said
+nothing that discovered her sentiments on this point, and with all the
+appearance of a perfect ease of mind, asked what he had to deliver to
+her. Only a song, mademoiselle, answered he, which my master ordered me
+to give you, and to desire you will let him know how you like it:--he
+says it might be turned into an admirable duetto, and begs you would
+employ your genius on that score and send it by me.
+
+Poor Louisa, who took his words literally, and thought her present
+circumstances too discordant for the fulfilling his request, opened the
+supposed piece of music with an aking heart; but when she had perused
+it, and found the artifice her lover had made use of to communicate his
+generous intentions to her, it is extremely fine, said she to the valet,
+and I will do what he requires to the best of my power, but fear I shall
+not be able to give it such a turn as he may expect. If you please,
+continued she, to wait a little, I shall not be long before I dispatch
+you. In speaking these words she went into her closet, and read over and
+over the offers he had made, in which, with the strictest examination,
+she could find nothing but what indicated the most perfect love, honour,
+and generosity. In the first transports of her soul she was tempted to
+comply; but her second thoughts were absolutely against it.--Those very
+reasons which would have prevailed with almost any other woman, made her
+obstinate to refuse:--the more she found him worthy, the less could she
+support the thoughts of giving him a beggar for a wife; and the more she
+loved him, the less could she content to be obliged to him; so she took
+but a small time for consideration, before she returned an answer in
+these terms:
+
+_To the most accomplished, and most generous monsieur_ DU PLESSIS.
+
+
+"As it was not owing to my pride or vanity,
+but merely compliance with the will of
+Melanthe, that my real meanness was made a
+secret, I find it revealed without any mortification;
+but, monsieur, the distance between us
+is not shortened by being known: as the consciousness
+of my unworthiness remains with
+me, and ever must do so, I again repeat the
+impossibility of accepting your too generous passion,
+and, after this, you will not wonder I
+should refuse those other obliging offers you are
+so good to make.--I left my native country
+with Melanthe, devoted myself to her service
+while she was pleased to continue me in it, and
+only wait her commands for my doing so, or to
+return to England.--I believe, by what her
+woman told me this day, the latter will be my
+fate.--Think not, however, most truly worthy
+of your whole sex, that I want eyes to distinguish
+your merits, or a heart capable of being
+influenced by them, perhaps too deeply for my
+own future peace:--this is a confession I would
+not have made, were I ever to see you more;
+but as I am determined to shut myself from all
+the world during my abode at Venice, I thought
+I owed this little recompence to the generous
+affection you express for me, and had rather you
+should think any thing of me, than that I am
+ungrateful.
+
+LOUISA.
+
+_P.S._ I beg, monsieur, after this, you will not
+attempt either to speak or write to me."
+
+
+When she had sent this away, she fell into fresh complainings at the
+severity of her fate, which constrained her to refuse what most she
+languished for:--the uncertainty how she should be disposed of was also
+a matter of grief:--she was at this time a prisoner in Melanthe's house:
+she had sent several messages to that lady, by her woman, entreating to
+know in what she had offended, but could receive no other answer than
+abuses, without one word which gave her the least light into the cause
+of this strange treatment; but that morning she was informed, by the
+same woman, that her Lady protested she should never more come into her
+presence, and that she would send her home: this, as she had wrote to
+monsieur du Plessis, seemed highly probable, as there was no appearance
+of a reconciliation; and the thoughts in what manner she should begin
+her life again, on her return, filled her with many anxieties, which,
+joined to others of a different nature, rendered her condition
+truly pitiable.
+
+It was in the midst of these perplexing meditations that word was
+brought her from Melanthe, that she must prepare for her departure on
+the ensuing day. It was in vain she again begged leave to see her, and
+to be made acquainted with the reason of her displeasure; but the other
+would not be prevailed upon, but sent her a purse sufficient to defray
+the expences of her journey to England, and bid her woman tell her she
+had no occasion to repine, for she turned her away in a much better
+condition than she had found her.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XV.
+
+_Louisa is in danger of being ravished by the count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+particulars_.
+
+Louisa packed up her things, as she had been commanded, tho' with what
+confusion of mind is not easy to be expressed; and, when she was ready
+to go, wrote a letter to Melanthe, thanking her for all the favours she
+had received from her, acknowledging them to be as unmerited as her late
+displeasure, which she conjured her to believe she had never, even in
+thought, done any thing justly to incur;--wished her prosperity, and
+that she might never find a person less faithful to her interests than
+she had been. Having desired her woman to deliver this to her, she took
+leave of the servants, who all loved her extremely, and saw her go with
+tears in their eyes.
+
+The rout she intended to take was to Padua by water, thence in a post
+chaise to Leghorn, where she was informed, it would be easy to find a
+ship bound for England; to what port was indifferent to her, being now
+once more to seek her fortune, tho' in her native country, and must
+trust wholly to that providence for her future support, which had
+hitherto protected her.
+
+Accordingly she took her passage to Padua in one of those boats, which
+are continually going between Venice and that city; and it being near
+the close of day when she landed, was obliged to go into an inn,
+designing to lye there that night, and early in the morning set out
+for Leghorn.
+
+She was no sooner in bed than, having never been alone in one of those
+places before, a thousand dreadful apprehensions came into her head: all
+the stories she had been told, when a child, of robberies and murders
+committed on travellers in inns, were now revived in her memory:--every
+little noise she heard made her fall into tremblings; and the very
+whistling of the wind, which at another time would have lulled her to
+sleep, now kept her waking: but these ideal terrors had not long
+possessed her, before she had an occasion of real ones, more shocking
+than her most timid fancy could have suggested.
+
+The wicked count de Bellfleur, who had taken care to prevent the passion
+he had excited in Melanthe against her from growing cool, learned, from
+that deceived lady, in what manner she intended to dispose of her; and
+no sooner heard which way she went than, attended by one servant, who
+was the confidant and tool of all his vices, he took boat for Padua, and
+presently finding out, by describing her, at what inn she was lodged,
+came directly thither; and, having called the man of the house, asked
+him if such a young woman were not lodged there, to which being answered
+in the affirmative, he told him that she was his wife;--that being but
+lately married to her, in compliance with her request, he had brought
+her to see the diversions of the carnival, and that she was eloped, he
+doubted not, but for the sake of a gallant, since he loved her too well
+to have given her any cause to take so imprudent a step.
+
+The concern he seemed to be under gained immediate credit to all he
+said; which he easily perceiving, I know, said he, that if I have
+recourse to a magistrate I shall have a grant, and proper officers to
+force her to return to her duty; but I would feign reclaim her by fair
+means:--it is death to me to expose her; and if my perswasions will be
+effectual, the world shall never know her fault.
+
+The innkeeper then told him she was gone to bed, but he would wait on
+him to her chamber, and he might call to her to bid her open the door.
+No, answered the count, if she hears my voice she may, perhaps, be
+frighted enough to commit some desperate action:--you shall therefore
+speak to her, and make some pretence for obliging her to rise.
+
+On this they both went up, and the man knocked softly at first, but on
+her not answering immediately, more loud.--She, who heard him before,
+but imagining something of what she had heard of others was now going to
+happen to herself, was endeavouring to assume all the courage she could
+for supporting her in whatever exigence heaven should reduce her to:--at
+last she asked who was there, and for what reason she was disturbed. The
+innkeeper then said he wanted something out of the room, and she must
+needs open the door. This she refused to do, but got out of bed and
+began to put on her cloaths, resolving to dye as decently as she could,
+verily believing they were come to rob and murder her.
+
+The man, who spoke all by the count's direction, then told her, that if
+she would not open the door, he must be obliged to break it, and
+presently beat so violently against it, that the poor terrified Louisa
+expected it to burst, so thought it would be better to unbolt it of her
+own accord, than, by a vain resistance, provoke worse usage than she
+might otherwise receive: but what was her astonishment when she beheld
+the count de Bellfleur! On the first moment the words monsieur du
+Plessis repeated to her, that _he would have her one way or another,_
+came into her mind, and made her give a great shriek; but then almost at
+the same time the thought that he might possibly be sent by Melanthe to
+bring her back, somewhat mitigated her fears.--Unable was she to speak,
+however; and the consternation she appeared to be in at his presence,
+joined with his taking her by the hand and bidding her be under no
+apprehensions, confirmed the truth of what he had told the innkeeper,
+who thinking he had no other business there, and they would be soonest
+reconciled when alone, left them, together and went down stairs.
+
+When the count saw he was gone,--I could not support the thoughts of
+seeing you no more, my dear Louisa, said he; I have heard Melanthe's
+cruel usage of you, and also that your condition is such, that you have
+no friends in England to receive you if you should prosecute your
+journey:--I come therefore to make you an offer, which, in your present
+circumstances, you will find it imprudent, I believe, to reject:--I long
+have loved you, and if you will be mine, will keep you concealed at a
+house where I can confide, till my return to the army; then will take
+the fame care of you, and place you somewhere near my own quarters; and,
+as I shall go to Paris as soon as the next campaign is over, will there
+provide for you in as handsome a manner as you can wish;--for be
+assured, dear lovely girl, that no woman upon earth will ever be capable
+of making me forsake you.
+
+That she had patience to hear him talk so long in this manner, was
+wholly owing to the fear and surprize she had been in, and perhaps had
+not yet recovered enough from, to make any reply to what he said, if he
+had contented himself only with words; but his actions rouzing a
+different passion in her soul, she broke from his arms, into which, he
+had snatched her at the conclusion of his speech, and looking on him
+with eyes sparkling with disdain and rage,--perfidious man! cried she,
+is this,--this the consequence of the vows you made Melanthe; and do you
+think, after this knowledge of your baseness, I can harbour any idea of
+you, but what is shocking and detestable!
+
+I never loved Melanthe, by heaven, resumed he; she made me advance, and
+not to have returned, them, would have called even my common civility in
+question;--but from the first moment I saw your beauties, I was
+determined to neglect nothing that might give me the enjoyment of
+them:--fortune has crowned my wishes, you are in my power, and it would
+be madness in you to lose the merit of yielding, and I compel me to be
+obliged to my own strength for a pleasure I would rather owe to your
+softness:--come, come, continued he, after having fastened the door, let
+us go to bed;--I will save your modesty, by pulling your cloaths off
+myself. In speaking this he catched hold of her again, and attempted to
+untye a knot which fastened her robe de chambre at the breast. On this
+she gave such shrieks, and stamped with her feet so forcibly on the
+ground, that the innkeeper fearing the incensed husband, as he supposed
+him to be, was going to kill her, ran hastily up stairs, and called to
+have the door opened, saying, he would have no murder in his house.
+
+The artful count immediately let him in, and told him, he need be under
+no apprehensions, his wife was too dear to him to suffer any thing from
+his resentment; and all the noise you heard, said he, was only because I
+insisted on her going to bed! By these words Louisa discovered how he
+had imposed upon the man, and cried out she was not his wife; but as she
+spoke very bad Italian, and the man understood no French, the count
+being very fluent in that language, had much the advantage, the
+innkeeper was fully satisfied, and they were again left alone, having a
+second opportunity to prosecute his villanous attempt.
+
+You see, said he, how much in vain it is for you to resist:--would it
+not be wiser in you, therefore, to meet my flames with equal warmth;--to
+feign a kindness even if you have none, and thereby oblige me to use you
+with a future tenderness:--believe I love you now with an extravagance
+of fondness:--it is in your power to preserve that affection for
+ever:--give me then willingly that charming mouth.
+
+He had all this time been kissing her with the utmost eagerness, so that
+with all her struggling she had not been able either to disengage
+herself from his embrace, or to utter one word; and he was very near
+forcing from her yet greater liberties, when all at once heaven gave her
+strength to spring suddenly from him, and running to a table where he
+had laid his sword, she drew it out of the scabbard with so much speed,
+that he could not prevent her, and making a push at him with one hand,
+kept him from closing with, or disarming her, till with the other she
+had plucked back the bolt of the door.
+
+In this posture she flew down stairs, and reached the hall before he
+overtook her, quite breathless and ready to faint. He was going to lay
+hold of her, when he found himself seized behind by two persons, whom,
+on turning to examine the reason, he found was monsieur du Plessis and
+the innkeeper. He started at the sight of that gentleman, and was going
+to say somewhat to him in French, when the innkeeper told him, the young
+woman should be molested no farther till he knew the truth of the
+affair; for, said he, there is a person, meaning monsieur du Plessis,
+who is just come in, and says she has no husband, and belongs to an
+English lady of quality now at Venice:--I will therefore take care of
+her this night, and if you have any real claim to her, you may make it
+out before the magistrate to-morrow.
+
+The count was so enraged to find it had been by monsieur du Plessis he
+had been disappointed, that he snatched his sword from Louisa, who had
+all this time held it in her hand, and made so furious a thrust at him,
+that, had he not been more than ordinary nimble in avoiding it, by
+stepping aside, it must have infallibly gone thro' his body.--He
+immediately drew and stood on his defence, but the innkeeper and several
+other people, whom Louisa's cries had by this time brought into the
+hall, prevented any mischief.
+
+The confusion of voices and uproar which this accident occasioned, would
+suffer nothing to be heard distinctly; but the guilt of count Bellfleur
+might easily be read in his looks, and not able to stand the test of any
+enquiry, he departed with his servant, casting the most malicious
+reflections as he went out, both on Louisa and her deliverer.
+
+Du Plessis less affected, because innocent, gave every one the
+satisfaction they desired: he said that the young lady being of English
+birth, came along with a lady of her own country, to visit several parts
+of Europe merely for pleasure; that the lady was still at Venice, and
+that on some little disgust between them, she who was there, meaning
+Louisa, had quitted her, and was now returning home by the way of
+Leghorn; of the truth of what he told them, he added, they might be
+informed, by sending to Venice the next day.
+
+He also said, that having a business to be negotiated in England, he had
+followed this young lady, in order to beg the favour of her to deliver
+letters to some friends he had there, not having the opportunity of
+making this request before, by reason of her departure having been so
+sudden, that he knew nothing of it before she was gone.
+
+The truth of all this Louisa confirmed, and on farther talk of the
+affair, acquainted them, that the gentleman who had occasioned this
+disturbance, for she forbore mentioning his name, had often sollicited
+her love on unlawful terms, and being rejected by her, had taken this
+dishonourable way of compassing his desires, at a place where he knew
+she was alone, and wholly a stranger.
+
+The fright and confusion she had been in, had rendered her so faint,
+that it was with infinite difficulty she brought out these words; but
+having something given her to refresh her spirits, and being conducted
+into another room out of the crowd, she began, by degrees, to
+recover herself.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis then informed her, that on coming to Melanthe's, and
+hearing she was gone, he immediately took boat, resolving to prevail on
+her to alter her resolution of going to England, or dye at her feet:
+that he easily found the inn she was at, and that the man of the house
+presently told him, such a person as he described was there; but that he
+understood she had eloped from her husband, who had pursued, and was now
+above with her.
+
+Never, said this faithful lover, did any horror equal what I felt at
+this intelligence!--The base count de Bellfleur came presently into my
+mind:--I thought it could be no other who had taken this abhored method
+of accomplishing the menaces you may remember I repeated to you:--I was
+going to fly up stairs that instant, but was withheld, and found it best
+to argue the man into reason, who, I found, was fully prepossessed you
+were his wife: as I was giving some part of your history, I saw the
+count's man passing thro' the hall; he saw me too, and would have
+avoided me, but I ran to him, seized him by the throat, and asked him
+what business had brought either him or his master to this place: the
+disorder he was in, and the hesitation with which he spoke, together
+with refusing to give any direct answer, very much staggered the
+innkeeper, who was just consenting to go up with me to your chamber, and
+examine into the truth of this affair, when we saw you come down, armed
+as your virtue prompted, and at the same time flying from the
+villain's pursuit.
+
+Louisa could not help confessing that she owed the preservation of her
+honour wholly to him; for, said she, the people were so fully persuaded
+not only that I was his wife, but also that I had fled from him on some
+unwarrantable intent, that all I did, or could have done, would only
+have served to render me more guilty in their opinion; and it must have
+been by death alone I could have escaped the monster's more
+detested lust.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis now made use of every argument that love and wit
+could inspire, to prevail with her to accept of the offer contained in
+the letter he had wrote to her; and concluded with reminding her, that
+if the charming confession her answer had made him was to be depended
+on, and that she had indeed a heart not wholly uninfluenced by his
+passion, she would not refuse agreeing to a proposal, which not the most
+rigid virtue and honour could disapprove.
+
+Louisa on this replied with blushes, that since, by the belief she
+should never see him more, she had been unwarily drawn in to declare
+herself so far, she neither could, nor would attempt to deny what she
+had said; but, added she, it is perhaps, by being too much influenced by
+your merits, that I find myself obliged to refuse what you require of
+me:--I cannot think, cried she, of rendering unhappy a person who so
+much deserves to be blessed:--and what but misery would attend a match
+so unequal as yours would be with me!--How would your kindred brook
+it!--How would the world confuse and ridicule the fondness of an
+affection so ill placed!--What would they say when they should hear the
+nobly born, the rich, and the accomplished monsieur du Plessis, had
+taken for his wife a maid obscurely defended, and with no other dowry
+than her virtue!--My very affection for you would, in the general
+opinion, lose all its merit, and pass for sordid interest:--I should be
+looked upon as the bane of your glory;--as one whose artifices had
+ensnared you into a forgetfulness of what you owed to yourself and
+family, and be despised and hated by all who have a regard for
+you.--This, monsieur, continued she, is what I cannot bear, neither for
+your sake nor my own, and entreat you will no farther urge a suit, which
+all manner of considerations forbid me to comply with.
+
+The firmness and resolution with which she uttered these words, threw
+him into the most violent despair; and here might be seen the difference
+between a sincere and counterfeited passion: the one is timid, fearful
+of offending, and modest even to its own loss;--the other presuming,
+bold, and regardless of the consequences, presses, in spight of
+opposition, to its desired point.
+
+Louisa had too much penetration not to make this distinction: she saw
+the truth of his affection in his grief, and that awe which deterred him
+from expressing what he felt:--she sympathized in all his pains, and for
+every sigh his oppressed heart sent forth, her own wept tears of blood;
+yet not receding from the resolution she had formed, nothing could be
+more truly moving than the scene between them.
+
+At length he ceased to mention marriage, but conjured her to consider
+the snares which would be continually laid, by wicked and designing men,
+for one so young and beautiful:--that she could go no where without
+finding other Bellfleurs; and she might judge, by the danger she had
+just now so narrowly escaped, of the probability of being involved again
+in the same:--he represented to her, in the most pathetic terms, that
+her innocence could have no sure protection but in the arms of a
+husband, or the walls of a convent; and on his knees beseeched her, for
+the sake of that virtue which she so justly prized, since she would not
+accept of him for the one, to permit him to place her in that other only
+asylum for a person in her circumstances.
+
+Difficult was it for her to resist an argument, the reason of which she
+was so well convinced of, and could offer nothing in contradiction to,
+but that she had a certain aversion in her nature to receive any
+obligations from a man who had declared himself her lover, and who might
+possibly hereafter presume upon the favours he had done her.
+
+It was in vain he complained of her unjust suspicion in this point,
+which, to remove, he protested to her that he would leave the choice of
+the monastry wholly to herself: that in whatever part she thought would
+be most agreeable, he would conduct her; and that, after she was
+entered, he would not even attempt to see her thro' the grate, without
+having first received her permission for his visit. Not all this was
+sufficient to assure her scrupulous delicacy: she remained constant in
+her determination; and all he could prevail on her, was leave to attend
+her as far as Leghorn, to secure her from any second attempt the
+injurious count might possibly make.
+
+After this they entered into some discourse of Melanthe, and whether it
+would be proper for Louisa to write her an account of this affair, and
+the count's perfidiousness. Monsieur du Plessis said, he thought that
+the late usage she had received from that lady, deserved not she should
+take any interest in her affairs; but it was not this that hindered
+Louisa from doing it:--the remembrance of the kindness she had once been
+treated with by her, more than balanced, in her way of thinking, all the
+insults that succeeded it; and when she reflected how much Melanthe
+loved the count, and that she had already granted him all the favours in
+her power, it seemed to her rather an act of cruelty than friendship, to
+acquaint her with this ingratitude, and thereby anticipate a misfortune,
+which, perhaps, by his artifices and continued dissimulation, might be
+for a long time concealed: therefore, for this reason, she exacted a
+promise from monsieur du Plessis not to make any noise of this affair
+at his return to Venice, unless the count, by some rash and precipitate
+behaviour, should enforce him to it.
+
+This injunction discovered so forgiving a sweetness of disposition in
+the person who made it, that monsieur du Plessis could not refrain
+testifying his admiration by the most passionate exclamations; in which
+perhaps he had continued longer, had not the eyes of the fair object
+discovered a certain languishment, which reminded him, he should be
+wanting in the respect he professed, to detain her any longer from that
+repose, which, seemed necessary, after the extraordinary hurry of
+spirits she had sustained; therefore having taken his leave of her for
+that night, retired to a chamber he had ordered to be got ready for him,
+as did she to that where she had been so lately disturbed: but all those
+who are in the least capable of any idea of those emotions, which
+agitated the minds of both these amiable persons, will believe neither
+of them slept much that night.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVI.
+
+_The Innkeepers scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: her
+behavior on the discovery of the count's falshood. Louisa changes her
+resolution and goes to Bolognia_.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis, having found it impossible to dissuade Louisa from
+going to England, now bent his whole thoughts to perform his promise of
+conducting her to Leghorn, in the most commodious manner he could;
+accordingly he rose very early, and calling for the man of the house,
+desired he would provide a handsome post chaise, and if he knew any
+fellows whose integrity might be relied on, he thought necessary to hire
+two such, who, furnished with fire-arms, might serve as a guard against
+any attack the count might take it into his head to make.
+
+But the innkeeper had now entertained notions that forbid him to
+correspond with the designs of monsieur: some of his neighbours, who had
+heard of last night's accident, whispered it in his ears, that it would
+not be safe for him to let these young people depart together; that he
+could not be assured the person, who pretended to be the husband, might
+not be so in reality; and if he should come again with proper officers
+and proofs to claim his wife, it might be of dangerous consequence to
+him to have favoured her escape; and that the only way he had to secure
+himself from being brought into trouble, was to lay the whole affair
+before the podestat. This advice seemed to him too reasonable not to be
+complied with: he went directly to that magistrate, and while the lover
+was speaking to him, officers came in to seize both him and Louisa, and
+carry them before the podestat.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was very much surprized and vexed at this
+interruption, and the more so, as he feared it would terrify Louisa to a
+greater degree than the nature of the thing required; but in this he did
+injury to her courage: when she was called up and informed of the
+business, she surrendered herself with all the dauntlessness of
+innocence to the officers, and suffered them to conduct her, with du
+Plessis, to the house of the podestat.
+
+Both of them flattered themselves with the belief, that when he should
+come to hear the story, they would be immediately discharged; but he
+happened to be one of those who are over wary in the execution of their
+office; and he only told them, that what they said might be true, but he
+was not to take things on the bare word of the parties themselves; and
+that therefore they must be confined till either the person who claimed
+the woman for his wife, should bring proofs she was so, or she should be
+able to make out he had no right over her.
+
+That is easy for me to do, said Louisa; I am only concerned that this
+gentleman, meaning du Plessis, should be detained on an account he has
+no manner of interest in. The podestat answered, it was unavoidable,
+because as the person, who said he was her husband, had accused her of
+an elopement, there was all the reason in the world to suppose that if
+it were so, it was in favour of this gentleman, by the rage he was
+informed he had testified at finding him in Padua.
+
+Louisa gave only a scornful smile, denoting how much she disdained a
+crime of the nature she was suspected of, and followed one of the
+officers, who conducted her to the place appointed for her confinement.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was touched to the soul at the indignity he thought
+offered to this sovereign of his affections; but he restrained himself
+when he considered that it had the sanction of law, which in all nations
+must be submitted to; and he only told the podestat, that the virtue of
+that lady would soon be cleared, to the confusion of those who had
+presumed to traduce it.
+
+As, after they were under confinement, they had no opportunity of
+advising each other what to do, monsieur du Plessis, uneasy at the
+injustice done him, wrote immediately to the prince of Conti, in
+these terms:
+
+_To his Royal Highness the Prince of_ CONTI.
+
+
+"It is with the extremest reluctance I give
+your royal highness this trouble, or find myself
+obliged to accuse the count de Bellfleur of
+an action so dishonourable to our nation; but
+as I am here under confinement for preventing
+him from committing a rape on a young English
+lady, who failing to seduce at Venice, he followed
+hither; and under the pretence of being
+her husband, gained the people of the house on
+his side, and had infallibly compassed his intent,
+had it not been for my seasonable interposition:
+I am too well convinced of the justice I presume
+to implore, to doubt if your highness will
+oblige him to clear up the affair to the podestat,
+on which she will be at liberty to prosecute her
+journey, and I to throw myself, with the utmost
+gratitude and submission, at your feet, who have
+the honour to be
+
+_Your royal highness's_
+
+_Most devoted_
+
+DU PLESSIS."
+
+_Padua._
+
+
+Louisa, who was ignorant what her lover had done, and knew no other way,
+than by writing to Melanthe, to extricate herself from this trouble,
+sent a letter to her, the contents whereof were as follows:
+
+
+MADAM,
+
+"On what imagined cause whatever you were
+pleased to banish me, I am certain you
+have too much goodness to suffer any one,
+much less a person you have once honoured
+with your friendship, to remain in prison for a
+crime it is impossible for me to be guilty of:--I
+am sorry I must accuse a person so dear to
+you;--but it is, madam, no other than the
+unworthy count de Bellfleur, who followed me
+hither, came into the inn where I was lodged,
+into the very chamber, and oh! I tremble
+while I relate it, had proceeded yet farther; and
+I had been inevitably lost, had not heaven sent
+me a deliverer in the unexpected arrival of monsieur
+du Plessis, who is also a prisoner as well
+as myself, for the timely rescue he gave me.
+You will wonder, doubtless, by what law either
+I should be confined for endeavouring to defend
+my chastity, or he, for generously assisting me;
+but the detested artful count had pretended himself
+my husband; and under the sanction of
+that name it was, that he met no opposition to
+his wicked will from the people of the house,
+and rendered them regardless of my shrieks and
+cries.--The magistrates are yet dubious of the
+truth; and till it can be proved what I really am,
+both myself and monsieur du Plessis must continue
+where we are:--have pity on me, therefore,
+I conjure you, madam, and write to the podestat:
+I have already told him I had the honour to
+belong to you;--a line from you will confirm
+it, and once more set at liberty a maid, who
+will ever remember all your favours with the
+greatest gratitude, and your withdrawing them
+as the worst misfortune could have befallen.
+
+MADAM,
+
+_From the prison
+at Padua.
+
+Your most faithful, and
+Most humble servant_,
+
+LOUISA."
+
+
+These letters were sent away by special messengers, who had orders to be
+as expeditious as possible in the delivery of them.
+
+But while these accidents happened at Padua, Melanthe was not without
+her share of inquietudes at Venice: she had not seen her beloved count
+in two whole days, and, tho' she sent several times to his lodgings,
+could hear nothing but that he was not yet come home. As her vanity
+would not suffer her to think herself neglected, without having received
+some glaring proofs of it, she feared some misfortune had befallen him,
+and exposed herself not a little in the enquiries she made after him,
+among all those who she could imagine were able to inform her any thing
+concerning him.
+
+At length some person, who happened to see him take boat, told her he
+was gone to Padua, which being the rout she knew Louisa had taken, and
+she had also informed him, a sudden thought darted into her head that he
+was gone in pursuit of her.--It now seemed not impossible, but that all
+he had said concerning his dislike of her might be artifice; and that
+the love of variety might prevail on him at last to comply with the
+advances he pretended she had made him.--The privacy with which he went,
+none of his acquaintance knowing any thing of his journey, seemed to
+favour this opinion; and never was a heart more racked with jealousy and
+suspence, than that of this unhappy, and too easily deceived lady.
+
+She had sometimes an inclination to go to Padua in person, and endeavour
+to find out what business had carried him thither; and her impatience
+had doubtless got the better of her prudence in this particular, if,
+sending once more to his lodgings, she had not heard he was
+returned.--On this she expected to see him in the evening, and flattered
+herself with his being able to make some reasonable excuse for his
+absence; but finding he came not, she was all distraction, and sent a
+billet to him next morning, requiring him to come to her immediately on
+the receipt of it; but as he was at that time in too ill a humour to
+think of entertaining her, sent her an answer by word of mouth, that he
+was indisposed, and would wait on her on his recovery.--This message
+seemed so cold, and so unlike the passion he had hitherto professed for
+her, that it threw her into almost convulsive agonies.--A masquerade
+was to be that night at the house of a person of quality: she sent again
+to know if he intended to be there, and, if he did, what habit he would
+wear, it being customary with them, ever since their amour, to acquaint
+each other with their dresses, that they might not mistake, by
+addressing to wrong persons. His reply was, that he would go if health
+permitted, but as to what he should wear he had not as yet thought
+of it.
+
+What, if he hat not thought of it! cried she haughtily, when she heard
+these words;--the knowledge that I shall be there, ought now to make him
+think of it.--Pride, love, and the astonishment at this sudden change in
+his behaviour, rendered her wholly forgetful of what she owed her sex
+and rank; and she was just going to his lodgings, in order to upbraid
+him with his indifference, and prove what it was she now had to depend
+on from him, when the messenger from Louisa arrived and delivered her
+the letter, which contained a sad eclaircisement of all she wanted to be
+informed of.
+
+At first reading it, she seemed like one transfixed with a sudden clap
+of thunder:--she had indeed been jealous, suspicious, fearful of her
+fate; but so glaring, so impudent a treachery had never entered her
+head, that any man could be guilty of, much less one whom her too fond
+passion had figured to her imagination, as possessed of all the virtues
+of his sex. It seemed too monstrous to be true; and she had accused the
+innocent Louisa as the inventor of this falshood, merely in revenge for
+her late treatment, had there been the least shadow of a pretence for
+doing so:--gladly would she have encouraged such a hope, but common
+sense forbid it;--all circumstances seemed to concur, in proving that he
+was indeed that villain which the letter represented him; and that
+surprize, which had in a manner stupified her on the discovery, was
+succeeded by a storm of mingled grief and rage, which no words can
+sufficiently describe:--she exclaimed against fate, cursed all mankind,
+and accused every thing as accessory to her misfortune, but that to
+which alone she owed it, her own imprudence.
+
+The disorders of her mind had such an effect on her body, that she fell
+into fits, and a physician was sent for, who, tho' esteemed the most
+skilful in that country, found it required all his art to prevent a
+fever: she continued, however, for five days in a condition, such as
+permitted her not to do any thing either for the satisfaction of her own
+impatient curiosity, or to comply with the just request Louisa had made;
+and had not monsieur du Plessis's letter to the prince been mere
+successful, they must both have continued where they were, perhaps for a
+considerable time.
+
+That, however, had all the effect could be expected from a prince of so
+much honour: he immediately sent for the count de Bellfleur; and easily
+finding, by the confusion with which he replied to his examination, and
+the little low evasions he was obliged to have recourse to, that the
+affair was as monsieur du Plessis had represented, gave him a severe
+check, and ordered him to depart immediately from Venice, where he told
+him, he had given such occasion to call the honour of the French nation
+in general in question; and to repair with all expedition to his winter
+quarters. Which command he instantly obeyed, without taking any leave of
+Melanthe, or perhaps even thinking on her.
+
+At the same time the prince dispatched his gentleman of horse to Padua,
+with necessary instructions for clearing up the affair; on which the
+prisoners were discharged, and their pardon asked by the podestat for
+doing what, he said, the duties of his post had alone obliged him to;
+tho' it is certain he had exercised his authority with greater
+strictness than the necessity of the thing required; since, if the count
+had been in reality the husband of Louisa, it would have been more easy
+for him to bring proofs of it, than for those under confinement to
+invalidate his claim.
+
+After the proper compliments to the gentleman who had taken this
+trouble, monsieur du Plessis entreated he would excuse him to the
+prince, that he retarded the thanks he had to pay his royal highness,
+till his return from conducting Louisa some part of her journey, which
+being a piece of gallantry the lady herself seemed well pleased with,
+was easily complied with by the other.
+
+This faithful lover had now a full opportunity to entertain his mistress
+with his passion, and represented it to her with so much force and
+eloquence, together with the dangers she would continually be exposed
+to, that she had at length no words to form denials, and gave him leave
+to conduct her to some monastry in Italy, the choice of which she left
+to him, till the campaign was over. This was indeed all he presumed to
+request of her at present. It may happen, said he, that your lover may
+fall a victim to the fate of war, among many other more brave and worthy
+men, who doubtless will not survive the next battle, and you will then
+be at liberty to pursue your inclinations either to England or
+elsewhere; and be assured of this, that I shall take care, before the
+hour of danger, to leave you mistress of a fortune, sufficient to protect
+you from any future insults of the nature you received from Melanthe.
+
+The tender soul of Louisa was so much dissolved at these words, that she
+burst into a flood of tears, and cried out, Oh! too generous du Plessis,
+think not I will survive the cruel hour which informs me all that is
+valuable in man has ceased to be!--Take,--oh! take no care for me; when
+you are no more, nothing this world affords can enable me to drag on a
+wretched life!
+
+What must be the transport of a man, who loved like him, to hear a mouth
+accustomed to the greatest reserve, utter exclamations so soft, so
+engaging, so convincing to him that he was no less dear to her than he
+could even wish to be!--He threw himself at her feet, and even thought
+that posture not humble enough to testify, as it deserved, his gratitude
+and joy. But she not suffering him to continue in it, he took the hand
+that raised him, kissed off the tears which had fallen from her eyes
+upon it, with speechless extacies, and seemed almost beside himself at
+the concern she could not yet overcome, on the bare imagination of
+losing him in the way he mentioned. If you love me, said she tenderly,
+you will endeavour to preserve yourself:--I have now put myself under
+your protection, by consenting to do as you would have me, and have no
+other from whom I would receive those favours I expect from you:--think
+not, therefore, that I will perform my promise, unless you give me
+yours, not to be so covetous of fame as to court dangers, nor, in too
+eager a pursuit of glory, to lose the remembrance of what you owe
+to love.
+
+Oh thou divinest softness! cried he, be assured I will put nothing to
+the venture that might take me from Louisa!--Your kindness, my angel,
+has shewed me the value of life, and almost made a coward of your
+lover:--no farther will I go than the duties of my post oblige me, and
+that honour, which to forfeit, would render me unworthy of your care.
+
+Louisa now found herself so much at ease, in having discovered a secret
+she had so long laboured with, and suffered an infinity of pain in the
+concealing of, that nothing could be more chearful than her looks and
+behaviour. He, on the other hand, was all rapture, yet did it not make
+him in the least forgetful of the rules he had prescribed himself, or
+give her modesty any room to repent the confession she had made in
+favour of his passion:--the conversation between them was all made up of
+innocence and love; and every hour they passed together, rendered them
+still dearer to each other.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis having thus gained the point his soul was let on,
+began to consider in what part of Italy it would be best to place his
+dear Louisa: as Bolognia was a free country, under the jurisdiction of
+the Pope, he thought she would there be the least subject to alarms, on
+account of the army's continual marches and countermarches thro' most
+other parts of Italy. He therefore got a post-chaise, and by easy
+journeys conducted her thither; and having made an agreement with the
+lady abbess of the Augustines, she was welcomed into the convent by the
+holy sisterhood with all imaginable good-nature and politeness.
+
+It would be endless to recite the farewels of these equally sincere, and
+passionate lovers; so I shall only say that never any parting was more
+truly touching; and the grief, which both of them endured, was only
+alleviated by the confidence they had in each other's affection, and the
+mutual promises of communicating the assurances of persevering in it, by
+letters as often as opportunity would permit.
+
+Melanthe being recovered of the indisposition of her body, tho' not of
+her mind, was informed of every particular of her perfidious lover's
+conduct as he had quitted Venice before she did her chamber, was obliged
+to bear the load of discontent her too easy belief had brought upon her,
+without even the poor ease of venting it in reproaches on him. The
+carnival soon after ending, and finding that change of place was no
+defence from misfortunes of the kind she had sustained, without she
+could also change her way of thinking, took the first convenience that
+offered, and returned to England, rather in worse humour than she
+had left it.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVII.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Warsaw, sees the coronation of Stanislaus and his
+queen: his reception from the king of Sweden: his promotion: follows
+that prince in all his conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The
+story of count Patkul and madame de Eusilden._
+
+While these things were transacting in Italy, Horatio, animated by love
+and glory, was pursuing his journey to Poland. His impatience was so
+great, that he travelled almost night and day, already imitating the
+example of the master he was going to serve; no wood, no river was
+impassable to him that shortened the distance to the place he so much
+longed to approach: and thus by inuring himself to hardship, became
+fitly qualified to bear his part in all the vast fatigues to which that
+prince incessantly exposed his royal person.
+
+Not a city, town, or even village he puffed thro', but echoed with the
+wonders performed by the young king of Sweden:--new victories, new
+acquisitions met him wherever he came:--all tongues were full of his
+praises; and even those who had been ruined by his conquests, could not
+help speaking of him with admiration.--Horatio heard all this with
+pleasure, but mixed with a kind of pain that he was not present at these
+great actions.--How glorious is it, cried he to himself, to fight under
+the banners of this invincible monarch!--What immortal honour has not
+every private man acquired, who contributed the least part to successes
+that astonish the whole world!
+
+But notwithstanding his eagerness which carried him thro' marshes, over
+mountains, and ways, which to an ordinary traveller would have seemed
+impassable, he met with several delays in his journey, especially when
+he got into Germany, where they were extremely scrupulous; and he was
+obliged to wait at some towns two or three days before he could obtain
+passports: he also met several parties of flying horse and dragoons, who
+were scouting about the country, as he drew nearer Saxony; but his
+policy furnished him with stratagems to get over these difficulties, and
+he got safe to Punitz, in the Palatinate of Posnania, where a great part
+of the king of Sweden's army was encamped.--He immediately demanded to
+be brought to the presence of the grand marshal Renchild, to whom he
+delivered the letter of the baron de la Valiere, and found the good
+effects of it by the civilities with which that great general vouchsafed
+to treat him. He would have had him stay with him; but Horatio, knowing
+the king was at Warsaw, was too impatient of seeing that monarch to be
+prevailed upon, on which he sent a party of horse to escort him to
+that city.
+
+He had the good fortune to arrive on the very day that Stanislaus and
+his queen were crowned, and was witness of part of the ceremony. The
+king of Sweden was there incognito, and being shewn to Horatio, he could
+not forbear testifying his surprize to see so great a prince, and one
+who, in every action of his life, discovered a magnamity even above his
+rank, habited in a manner not to be distinguished from a private man;
+but it was not in the power of any garb to take from him a look of
+majesty, which shewed him born to command not only his own subjects, but
+kings themselves, when they presumed to become his enemies. There was a
+fierceness in his eyes, but tempered with so much sweetness, that it was
+impossible for those who most trembled at his frowns to avoid loving him
+at the same time.
+
+Stanislaus had in him all that could attract respect and good wishes;
+beside the most graceful person that can be imagined, he had a certain
+air of grandeur, joined with an openness of behaviour, that shewed him
+equally incapable of doing a mean or dishonourable action: his queen was
+one of the greatest beauties of her time; and every one present at their
+coronation, confessed, that never any two persons more became a throne,
+or were more worthy of the dignity conferred upon them.
+
+The whole court was too much taken up that day, for Horatio to think of
+presenting himself before the king of Sweden; but the officer, who
+commanded the party that general Renchild had sent with him, introduced
+him in the evening to count Hoorn, governor of Warsaw, who provided him
+an appartment, and the next morning introduced him to count Piper. That
+minister no sooner read the baron de Palfoy's letter, and heard he had
+others to deliver to the king from the chevalier St. George, and the
+queen dowager of England, than he treated him with the utmost marks of
+esteem; and assured him that, since he had an inclination to serve his
+majesty, he would contribute every thing in his power to make him not
+repent the long fatigues he had undergone for that purpose; but, said he
+with a smile, you will have no need of me; you bring, I perceive,
+recommendations more effectual, and have besides, in yourself,
+sufficient to engage all you have to wish from a monarch so just and
+generous as ours.
+
+Horatio replied to this compliment with all humility; and as the count
+perceived by his accents that he was not a Frenchman, tho' he spoke the
+language perfectly well, he asked him of what country he was; to which
+Horatio replied, that he was of England, but made him no farther
+acquainted with his affairs, nor that the motive of his having remained
+so long in France, was because he was not ransomed by his friends: not
+that he concealed this out of pride, but he knew the character of most
+first ministers, and thought it not prudence to unbosom himself to one
+of those, whose first study, when they come into that employment, is to
+discover as much as they can of others, without revealing any thing of
+themselves. For this reason he was also very sparing of entering into
+any discourse of the chevalier's court, or of that of the king of
+France, and answered all the questions put to him by the count, that his
+youth, and being of foreign extraction, hindered him from being let into
+any secrets of state.
+
+After a pretty long conversation, the count led him to the king of
+Sweden's apartment, where, just as they were about to enter, he asked
+him if he could speak Latin; for, said he, tho' his majesty understands
+French, he never could be brought to speak it, nor is pleased to be
+addressed in that language. Horatio thanked him for this information,
+and told him, that tho' he could not boast of being able to deliver
+himself with an affluence becoming the presence of so great a prince,
+yet he would chuse rather to shew his bad learning, than his want of
+ambition to do every thing that might render himself acceptable.
+
+As he spoke these words, he found himself in his presence.--The king was
+encompassed by the officers of the army, to whom he was giving some
+directions; but seeing count Piper, and a stranger with him, he left off
+what he was saying, and, without giving him time to speak, cried, Count,
+who have you brought me here? One, may it please your majesty, replied
+he, who brings his credentials with him, and has no need of my
+intercession to engage his welcome. While the count Was making this
+reply, the king, who had an uncommon quickness in his eyes, measured
+Horatio from head to foot; and our young soldier of fortune, without
+being daunted, put one knee to the ground, and delivered his packet with
+these words:--The princes, by whom I have the honour to be sent,
+commanded me to assure your majesty, that they participate in all your
+dangers, rejoice in all your glories, and pray, that as you only conquer
+for the good of others, the sword you draw, in the cause of justice, may
+at last be sheathed in a lasting and universal peace.
+
+I am afraid it will be long before all that is necessary for that
+purpose is accomplished, said the king; wrong, when established, not
+easily gives place to right;--but we are yet young enough to hope it.
+
+He broke open his letters as he spoke this; and while he was examining
+them, took his eye off the paper several times to look on Horatio, and
+then read again.
+
+When he had done, I am much obliged, said he, to the zeal these letters
+tell me you have expressed for my service, and shall not be
+ungrateful:--we are here idle at present but shall not long be so; and
+you will have occasions enough to prove your courage, and gratify that
+love of arms which, my brother informs me, is the predominant passion of
+your soul.
+
+After this he asked him several questions concerning the chevalier St.
+George, the queen, and princess Louisa; to which Horatio answered with
+great propriety, but mingled with such encomiums of the royal persons,
+as testified his gratitude for the favours he received from them. But
+when he mentioned the princess, and delivered the message she sent by
+him, a more lively colour flushed into the king's cheeks, and he
+replied, well, we shall do all we can to comply with her commands; then
+turned quick about, and resumed the discourse he was in, before
+Horatio's entrance, with his officers, as much as to say, the business
+of his love must not interrupt that of the war; and Horatio had
+afterwards the opportunity of observing, that tho' he often looked upon
+the picture of that amiable princess, which he always wore in his bosom,
+yet he would on a sudden snatch his eyes away, as fearing to be too
+much softened.
+
+Horatio was ordered to be lodged in the castle where the garrison was
+kept; but he was every day at the king's levee, and received the most
+extraordinary marks of his favour and affection; for which, as he looked
+upon himself entirely indebted to the recommendations of his friends in
+France, he wrote letters of thanks, and an account of all that
+happened to him.
+
+Poland being now entirely subdued by the valour and fortune of Charles
+XII. and having received a king of his nomination, submitted cheerfully,
+glad to see an end of devastation, as they then flattered themselves;
+but the troubles of that unfortunate kingdom were yet to endure much
+longer.--Augustus, impatient of recovering what he had lost, and the
+czar of Muscovy jealous and envious of the king of Sweden's glory, came
+pouring with mighty armies from Saxony and Russia. Shullenburgh, the
+general of the former, had passed the Oder; and the other, at the head
+of a numerous body, was plundering all that came in his way, and putting
+to the sword every one whom he even suspected of adhering to king
+Stanislaus: so that nothing now was talked of but war, and the means
+concerted how to put a stop to the miseries these two ambitious princes
+made, not only in that country, but all the adjacent parts.
+
+It was agreed that general Renchild should go to meet Shullenburgh, and
+the two kings drive out the Muscovites; who being divided into several
+parties, Stanislaus went at the head of one army, and the king of Sweden
+led another; and taking different routs, had every day what he called
+skirmishes, but what the vanquished looked upon as terrible battles.
+
+The king of Sweden, before their departure from Warsaw, told Horatio
+that all his officers were gallant men, and it was not his custom to
+displace any one for meer favour to another; he must therefore wait till
+the fate of war, or some other accident, made a vacancy, before he could
+give him a commission, in the mean time, said he, with a great deal of
+sweetness, you must be content to be only my aid-de-camp. On this
+Horatio replied to his majesty, with as much politeness as sincerity,
+that it was the post he wished, tho' dare not presume to ask; for he
+looked upon the honour of being near, and receiving the commands of so
+excellent a monarch, preferable to the highest commission in the army.
+
+Thus, highly contented with his lot, did he attend the king, thro'
+rivers, lakes, marines, and all the obstacles nature had thrown in the
+way of this conqueror; and whenever they came to any battle, was so
+swift in bearing his commands to the general, and in returning to him in
+which line soever he was, that Poniatosky gave him the name of the
+Mercury to their Jove; nor did he less signalize his valour; he fought
+by the side of the king like one who valued not life, in competition
+with the praises of his master. In an engagement where they took the
+baggage of Augustus, he did extraordinary service; and a colonel then
+being killed on the spot, the king presently cried out, Now here is a
+regiment for my Horatio. Our young warrior thanked him on his knees, but
+beseeched he might not be removed from him, again protesting that he
+could no were deserve so well, as where he was animated by his royal
+presence. This Charles XII. took very kindly, and told him, he should
+have his desire; but, said he, I must also have mine:--I will continue
+you my aid-de-camp, but you shall accept the commission, and the
+lieutenant colonel shall command the regiment in your absence.
+
+He also allotted him so large a share in the prize taken in this battle,
+that Horatio was already become rich enough to avow his pretensions to
+the daughter of the baron de Palfoy; but, dear as she was to him, his
+love and admiration of the king of Sweden, joined to the ambition of
+desiring still more than he had received, kept him from entertaining the
+least desire of quitting the service he was in.
+
+In eight or nine weeks did the two kings clear the country round, and
+drove their enemies into the heart of Lithuania. As they were about to
+return, they were met by the welcome news that general Renchild had been
+no less successful, and entirely routed the whole army of Shullenburgh,
+and also that the diet of Ratisbon, fearing the king of Sweden would
+enter Germany, had come to a resolution to declare him an enemy to the
+empire, in case he offered to pass the Oder with his army.
+
+They could not have taken a more effectual step to bring on what
+they dreaded, than by daring him to it by this menace. He took but
+little time for consideration, before he determined to carry the war
+into Saxony, and drive Augustus from his electorate, as he had done from
+his kingdom.
+
+He had no sooner made known his resolution, than the troops began to
+march, and with a chearfulness and alacrity, which shewed they had no
+will but that of their king:--indeed he seemed the soul of this mighty
+body, of which every single man was a member, and actuated only by him.
+
+It is certain his heart was set on establishing Stanislaus on the
+throne, and he knew no better way of preventing Augustus from molesting
+him, than by calling off all communication between his electorate and
+Poland:--accordingly he bent his course to Saxony, marched thro' Silesia
+and Lusatia, plundered the open country, laid the rich city of Leipsic,
+and other towns, under contribution, and at length encamped at
+Alranstadt, near the plains of Lutsen, whence he sent to the estates of
+Saxony, to give him an estimate of what they could supply, and obliged
+them to levy whatever sums he had occasion for: not that he had the
+least spark of avarice in his nature, but his hatred to Augustus, who
+had by his injustice made him become his enemy, was so great, that it
+extended to all those of his country, so far, as to humble and
+impoverish the once opulent inhabitants, making them not only support
+his numerous army, but laid on them besides many unnecessary imposts,
+which he divided among his soldiers, so that they were all cloathed in
+gold and silver, and every private man had the appearance of a general,
+the king himself still preferring his usual plainness; but he loved, he
+said, to see the Saxon riches upon Swedish backs.
+
+Horatio had now a second opportunity of writing to France, which he did
+not fail to do, and, as there was no talk of the army decamping for some
+time, let his friends know he hoped to hear from them at Alranstadt.
+
+Augustus, in the mean time deprived of every thing, and a wanderer in
+that kingdom where he had lately reigned, sent a mean submission to him,
+entreating peace, and that he might have leave to return to his
+electorate. This was granted by the conqueror, on condition he would
+renounce, for ever, all thoughts of re-entering Poland, or giving any
+disturbance to Stanislaus. But as the treaty was going to be signed, the
+czar sent an army of 20,000 men to his relief, who defeated general
+Mayerfield, whom the king had left to guard that kingdom; and the
+dethroned monarch once more entered Warsaw, the capital of Poland,
+in triumph.
+
+Charles XII. was so exasperated when he received this intelligence, that
+he gave immediate orders to decamp, resolving he should not long enjoy
+the benefit of his breach of faith; but the pusillanimity of Augustus
+prevented him: that prince was afraid the czar should discover the peace
+he had been secretly negotiating, and withdraw his troups; and as he had
+neither any of his own, nor money to assist him, he sent the articles
+demanded of him by the king of Sweden, signed with his own hand, and set
+out to Alranstadt, hoping, by his presence and persuasions, to mollify
+his indignation, and be permitted to enjoy his own Saxony in peace.
+
+What more could the utmost ambition of man require than the king of
+Sweden now received, to see a prince, so lately his equal and inveterate
+enemy, come to solicite favour of him in his camp, almost at his feet;
+but whatever were his sentiments on this occasion he concealed them, and
+tho' he could not but despise such an act of meanness, he treated him
+with the utmost politeness, tho' without making any abatement of the
+demands he had exacted from him. On the contrary, he insisted on his
+delivering up to him general Patkul, ambassador from the czar, who at
+that time was a prisoner in Saxony, being determined to put him to death
+as a traitor, having been born his subject, and now entered into the
+service of his sworn enemy.
+
+Augustus beseeched him in the most abject manner to relinquish this one
+point, and remonstrated to him that the czar, his present master, would
+look on it as the utmost indignity offered to himself in the person of
+his ambassador: he assured him he hated Patkul, but feared the giving
+him up would be resented by all the princes of Europe. All he could urge
+on this head was to no effect; the king of Sweden was not to be moved
+from any resolution he had once made; and the unfortunate Patkul was
+sent to Alranstadt and chained to a stake for three whole months, and
+afterwards conducted to Casimir, where he was to receive his sentence.
+
+Horatio, who was an entire stranger to the motive of this behaviour in
+the king, and had never seen any thing before in him that looked like a
+cruel disposition, was one day mentioning his surprize at it to a young
+officer with whom he had contracted a great intimacy, on which he gave
+him the following account:
+
+This Patkul, said he, is a Livonian born, which, tho' a free country, is
+part of the dominions annexed to the crown of Sweden: Charles XI. began
+to introduce a more absolute form of government than was consistent with
+the humour of that people; his son has been far from receding in that
+point, and Patkul being a person of great consideration among them,
+stood up for their liberties in a manner which our king could not
+forgive:--he ordered him to be seized, but he made his escape, and was
+proscribed in Sweden; on which he entered into the service of king
+Augustus, and was made his general; but on some misunderstanding;
+between him and the chancellor, he quitted Poland and went to Russia,
+where he got into great favour with the czar, was highly promoted, and
+sent his residentiary ambassador in Saxony. Augustus, whose fate it has
+been to disoblige every body, on some pretence clapp'd into prison the
+representative of his only friend, and now, we see, has given him up to
+death, to satiate the demands of his greatest enemy.
+
+Horatio could not keep himself from falling into a deep musing at the
+recital of this adventure: he thought Patkul worthy of compassion, yet
+found reasons to justify the king's resentment; and as this officer had
+often disburthened himself to him with the greatest freedom, he had no
+reserve toward him, and this led them into a discourse on arbitrary
+power.--Horatio said, that he could not help believing that nature never
+intended millions to be subjected to the despotic will of one person,
+and that a limited government was the most conformable to reason. The
+officer agreed with him in that; except the person who ruled had really
+more perfections than all those he ruled over and if so, said he, and
+his commands are always calculated for the happiness of the subject,
+they cannot be more happy than in an implicite obedience. True, replied
+Horatio, I am confident that such a prince as ours knows how to chuse
+for his people much better than they do for themselves; but how can they
+be certain that his descendants will have the same virtues; and when
+once an absolute power is granted to a good prince, it will be in vain
+that the people will endeavour to wrest it from the hands of a bad
+one.--Never can any point be redeemed from the crown without a vast
+effusion of blood, and the endangering such calamities on the country,
+that the relief would be as bad as the disease. Upon the whole,
+therefore, I cannot think Patkul in the wrong for attempting to maintain
+the liberty of his country, tho' I do for entering into the service of
+the avowed enemy of his master.
+
+It is that, I believe, resumed the other, that the king chiefly resents:
+his majesty is too just to condemn a man for maintaining the principles
+he was bred in, however they may disagree with his own; but to become
+his enemy, to enlist himself in the service of those who aim at the
+destruction of his lawful prince, is certainly a treason of the
+blackest dye.
+
+As they were in this discourse, colonel Poniatosky came in, and hearing
+they were speaking of Patkul,--I have just now, said he, received a
+letter from one of my friends in Saxony concerning that general, which
+deeply affects me, not for his own, but for the sake of a lady, to whom,
+after a long series of disappointments, he was just going to be married,
+when Augustus, against the law of nations, made him a prisoner. I will
+relate the whole adventure to you, continued he; on which the others
+assuring him they should think themselves obliged to him, he went on.
+
+When he first entered into the service of Augustus, he became
+passionately in love with madam d' Ensilden, a young lady, whose beauty,
+birth, and fortune rendered her worthy the affections of a man of more
+honour than he had testified in his public capacity: her friends at
+least thought so; and chancellor Flemming making his addresses to her at
+the same time, had the advantage in every thing but in her heart: there
+Patkul triumphed in spight of all objections: and tho' king Augustus
+vouchsafed himself to sollicite in behalf of his favourite, her
+constancy remained unshaken as a rock; which so incensed a monarch
+haughty and imperious in his nature, before humbled by our glorious
+Charles, that he made use of his authority, and forbid her to think of
+marrying any other: to which she resolutely answered, that she knew no
+right princes had to interfere with the marriages of private persons;
+but since his majesty commanded it, she would endeavour to obey and live
+single. This not satisfying the king, he hated Patkul from that moment;
+and the rivals soon after meeting in madam d' Ensilden's apartment, some
+hot words arose between them, which being by Flemming reported to his
+master, he sent, in the moment of his passion, to require Patkul to
+resign his office of general: he did so, but with a murmur that was far
+from abating the royal resentments; and he had then ordered him into
+confinement, but that private intelligence being given him, he made his
+escape before the officers, commissioned for that purpose, reached his
+house. He then went to the czar, who knowing him an experienced general,
+of which at that time he stood greatly in need, gladly received him; and
+it was there he first merited the hate of all good men, by countenancing
+and abetting those ambitious projects his new master was then forming
+against the king of Sweden: but see the fate of treason, he persuaded
+him to enter into an alliance with, Poland and Saxony against Sweden,
+which laid the foundation of this unjust war, and for which Augustus has
+so dearly paid; and being sent Ambassador, in order to negotiate these
+affairs, again renewed those of his love. Augustus, now obliged to the
+czar for the preservation of his dominions, durst not openly espouse
+chancellor Flemming, but no sooner heard that the marriage was near
+being compleated, than he ventured every thing to prevent it; and, under
+a pretence of his own forging, confined Patkul in the castle of
+Konisting, where he lay a considerable time; the czar being too much
+taken up with combating the fortune of our victorious king, to examine
+into this affair, and besides, unwilling to break with Augustus, as
+things then stood. Madam d' Ensilden did all this time whatever could be
+expected from a sincere affection, in order to procure his enlargement;
+but the interest of her friends, at least of those who would be employed
+in this intercession, were infinitely too weak to oppose that of
+Flemming and the king's own inclination, so that he remained a prisoner,
+without being permitted either to write to madam d' Ensilden or see her,
+till the time of his being delivered into our hands. But on hearing he
+was so, my friend informs me her great spirit, which till now had made
+her support her misfortune without discovering to the world any part of
+the agonies she sustained, in an instant quite forsook her: she
+abandoned herself to despair and grief, equally exclaiming against the
+Czar, Augustus, and Charles XII; has ever since shut herself up in her
+apartment, which she has caused to be hung with black, the windows
+closed, and no light but what a small lamp affords, and only adds more
+horror to the melancholy scene: she weeps incessantly, and, as she
+expects her lover will obtain no mercy, declares, she only waits till
+she hears the sentence of his fate is given, to dye, if possible, at the
+same moment of his execution.
+
+I must confess, continued Poniatosky, the history of this lady's
+sufferings touch me very much; and tho' I think her lover well worthy of
+the death he will undoubtedly receive, could wish some unexpected chance
+might once more set him free, and in a condition to recompence so tender
+a passion, which Augustus has now no longer any power to oppose.
+
+Horatio had a heart too tender, and too sensible of the woes of love,
+not to be greatly affected with this passage; and as they all were
+young, and probably had each of them a lady to whom their affections
+were given, could not help sympathizing in the misfortunes of two
+persons who seemed to have fallen into them merely by the sincere
+attachment they had for each other.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVIII.
+
+_King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the troubles in Poland:
+Charles XII. gives laws to the empire: a courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives letters which give him great surprize_.
+
+Augustus being able to obtain no better conditions from the king of
+Sweden, than leave to return to his almost ruined electorate, took leave
+of his conqueror with an almost broken heart.--Intelligence soon after
+arriving that Poland was half demolished by the violence of different
+factions, who, in the absence of both their kings, contended with equal
+fury for the sovereign power, Stanislaus took an affectionate farewell
+of his dear friend and patron, and went to appease the troubles of that
+kingdom, and make himself peaceably acknowledged for what he was, their
+lawful king, not only by election, but by the gift of the conqueror,
+Charles XII. of Sweden. He was attended by 10,000 Swedish horse, and
+twice the number of foot, in order to make good his claim against any of
+his rebellious subjects.
+
+Charles having now accomplished all he could desire in relation to the
+Polish affairs, began to grow weary of the idle life he led at
+Alranstadt, and was thinking which way he should turn his arms; he had
+been used ill by the czar, who, as has been before observed, plotted his
+destruction while a minor, and began hostilities when he thought him not
+in a condition to defend himself, much less to make any reprisals: his
+resentment therefore against him was no less implacable than it had been
+against Augustus,--But the emperor had also disobliged him. Count Zobor,
+the chamberlain, had taken very indecent and unbecoming liberties with
+his character, in the presence of his own Ambassador at Vienna; and that
+court had given shelter to 1500 Muscovites, who having escaped his arms,
+fled thither for protection. As he was now so near, he therefore thought
+best to call the emperor first to account, and then proceed to
+attack the czar.
+
+To this end he sent to demand count Zobor, and the 1500 Muscovites
+should be given into his hands: the timid emperor complied with the
+first and sent his chamberlain to be punished as the king thought fit;
+but it was not in his power to acquiesce with the other; the Roman envoy,
+then at Vienna, having intelligence of it, provided for their escape by
+different routs. The king of Sweden then sent a second mandate,
+requiring protection for all the Lutherans throughout Germany,
+particularly in Silesia, and that they should be restored to all the
+liberties and privileges established by the treaty of Westphalia. The
+emperor, who would have yielded any thing to get the king of Sweden out
+of his neighbourhood, granted even this, disobliging as it was to the
+pope and his own catholic subjects: and having ratified these
+concessions, the king vouchsafed to let his chamberlain return, without
+any other punishment than imprisonment, so long as these affairs
+remained in agitation.
+
+Having thus given laws to Germany and terror to the emperor, he resolved
+to turn where he might expect more opposition; and accordingly he
+ordered count Piper to acquaint the officers, that they must now begin
+to think of preparing for a march.
+
+In the mean time ambassadors from all the courts of Europe were sent to
+his camp, most of them being apprehensive that they should be the next
+who felt the terror of his arms: but those who had nothing of this kind
+to dread, and more really his friends, made use of all the arguments in
+their power to prevail on him to return to Stockholm. France in
+particular sent courier after courier, remonstrating to him that his
+glory was complete; that he had already exceeded Alexander, and should
+now return covered, as he was, with lawrels, and let his subjects enjoy
+the blessing of his presence. The court of St. Germains added their
+entreaties to that of Versailles, but each were equally ineffectual; nor
+could even the thoughts of the beautiful princess Louisa, his betrothed
+spouse, and whom he was to marry at the end of this war, put a stop to
+the vehemence of his impatience to revenge the many injuries he had
+received from the czar of Muscovy.
+
+These were the sentiments by which this conquering monarch were
+agitated; but Horatio, tho' no less fond of glory, had a softness in his
+nature, which made him languish for the sight of his dear Charlotta,
+whom he had been absent from near two years; and being now blessed with
+a fortune from the plunder of Saxony, which might countenance his
+pretensions to her, passionately longed for an opportunity of returning
+without incurring the censure of cowardice or ingratitude. By these
+couriers he received letters from the baron de la Valiere, and several
+others of his friends, but none from the father of Charlotta; nor did
+any of them make any mention of that lady, tho' he knew the passion he
+had for her was now no secret to any of them.
+
+He was very much surprized that the baron de Palfoy had not wrote,
+because as he had in a manner promised to correspond with him by
+desiring him to write, he had a right to expect that favour when they
+came to Alranstadt; for till then it was scarce possible, by reason of
+the army's continual and uncertain motions; but he was much more so,
+that the baron de la Valiere had not been so good as to give him some
+information of an affair, of which he could not be insensible his peace
+so much depended: that he did not do it, he therefore presently
+concluded, was owing to the having nothing pleasing to acquaint
+him with.
+
+As love is always apprehensive of the worst that can possibly befal, he
+thought now of nothing but her being obliged to give her hand to some
+rival approved by her father:--what avails it, cried he, that fortune
+has raised me to an equality with her, if, by other means, I am
+deprived of her!
+
+He was beginning to give way to a despair little befitting a soldier,
+when another courier arriving from Versailles with dispatches to the
+king, he also received a packet, in which were three letters. The first
+he cast his eye upon had on it the characters of Charlotta: amazed and
+transported he hastily broke the seal, and found it contained
+these lines:
+
+_To Colonel_ HORATIO.
+
+
+SIR,
+
+"I have the permission of my father to pursue
+my inclinations, in giving you this testimony
+how sincerely I congratulate your good fortune;
+tho' I ought not to call it by that name, since I
+find every-body allows your rewards have not
+exceeded your merits; but as neither has been
+found deficient either for your ambition or the
+satisfaction of your friends, all who are truly such
+think you ought to be content, and run no future
+hazards.--Be assured you have many well-wishers
+here, among the number of whom you
+will be guilty of great injustice not to place
+
+CHARLOTTA DE PALFOY."
+
+
+How well were all the late anxieties he had endured attoned for by this
+billet; it was short indeed, and wrote with a more distant air than he
+might have expected, had the dear authoress been at liberty to pursue
+the dictates of her heart; but as it informed him it was permitted by
+her father, and was doubtless under his inspection, the knowledge that
+he had authorized her to write at all, was more flattering to his hopes
+of happiness than all she could have said without that Sanction. After
+having indulged the raptures this condescention excited, he proceeded to
+the rest, and found the next he opened was from the baron de Palfoy, who
+expressed himself to him in these terms:
+
+_To Colonel_ HORATIO.
+
+
+"I think myself obliged to you for so much
+exceeding the character I gave you; but I
+value myself on knowing mankind, and am glad
+to find I was not deceived in you, when I expected
+you to do more than I durst venture on
+my own opinion to assure the count. He tells me,
+in a letter I received from him the last courier,
+that the victorious Charles XII. himself cannot
+behave with greater bravery in the time of action,
+nor more moderation after it is over.--This
+is a great praise, indeed, from such a man
+as he; and I acquaint you with it not to make
+you vain, for that would blemish the lustre of
+your other good qualities, but that you may
+know how to make proper acknowledgments to
+that minister."
+
+"Our court, I know, makes pressing influences
+to the king of Sweden not to carry on the way
+any farther: I wish they may succeed, or if they
+should not, that you might be able to find some
+opportunity of quitting the service for reasons
+which you will see in a letter that accompanies
+this, and to which nothing can be added to convince
+you what part you ought to take.--I
+shall therefore say no more than that I am, with
+a very tender regard,
+
+_Yours_,
+
+PALFOY"
+
+
+Rejoiced as he was at receiving a letter from the father of his
+mistress, wrote in a manner which he might look upon as a kind of
+confirmation he no longer would be refractory to his wishes, the latter
+part of it contained an enigma he could by no means comprehend.--It
+seemed impossible to him there could be any reasons prevalent enough to
+make him quit, with honour, a prince who had so liberally rewarded his
+service; but hoping a further explanation, he lost not any time in
+conjectures; and tearing open the other letter without giving himself
+time to examine the hand in which it was directed, found, to his
+inexpressible astonishment, the name of Dorilaus subscribed. It was
+indeed wrote by that gentleman, and contained at follows:
+
+_Dear Horatio_,
+
+
+"Accidents, which at our parting neither of
+us could foresee, have doubtless long since
+made you cease to hope any continuance of that
+kindness my former behaviour seemed to promise;
+but never, perhaps did heaven deal its
+blessings with a more mysterious hand than it
+has done to you.--That seeming neglect in
+me, at a time when you were a prisoner among
+strangers, and had most need of my assistance,
+had the appearance of the greatest misfortune
+could befall you; yet has it been productive of
+the greatest good, and laid the foundation of a
+happiness which cannot be but lasting.--I reserve
+the explanation of this riddle till you arrive
+at Paris, where I now am, and intend to
+continue my whole life.--That I impatiently
+desire to see you, ought to be a sufficient inducement
+for you to return with as much expedition
+as possible:--I will therefore make this
+experiment of that affection, I might add duty,
+you owe me, and only give you leave to guess
+what recompence this proof of your obedience
+will entitle you to.--If therefore the king of
+Sweden is resolute to extend his conquests, entreat
+his permission to resign: I know the obligations
+you have to that excellent prince; but I
+know also you have others to me which cannot
+be dispensed with:--besides, his majesty's affairs
+cannot suffer by the loss of one man: yours
+will be in danger, if not totally ruined, by your
+continuance with him, and myself deprived at
+the same time of the only remaining comfort of
+my days.--Your sister left me soon after you
+did:--she went to Aix la Chapelle, since
+which I have never been able to hear any thing
+of her.--Let me not lose you both; if you
+have any regard for your own interest, or the
+peace of him whom you have ever found a father
+in his care and affection, and whom you will
+now find so more than you can possibly expect.
+
+DORILAUS."
+
+
+Impossible is it to conceive, without being in the very circumstances
+Horatio was, what a strange variety of mingled passions agitated his
+breast on having to read, and considered these letters:--to find such
+unhoped condescension from the baron de Palfoy and that Dorilaus was
+still living, and had the same, if not more tender inclinations for him
+than ever, the latter of which he had long since ceased to hope, was
+sufficient to have overwhelmed even the most phlegmatic person with an
+excess of joy:--but then the dark expressions in both these letters put
+his brain on the rack.--The baron had seemed to refer to an explanation
+of what he darkly hinted at in the letter of Dorilaus, but that he found
+rather more obsolete: he could imagine nothing farther than that
+Dorilaus having resolved to make him his heir, as he remembered some
+people said before he left England, on the knowledge of that
+intelligence the baron de Palfoy had consented to his marriage with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, and this, her being permitted to write to him
+confirmed.--This indeed was the supreme aim of his desires; and this it
+was that made him quit St. Germains, in hope of raising himself to a
+condition which might enable her to own her affection to him without a
+blush: but transporting as this idea was, it was mingled with disquiet,
+to reflect on the terms which both the Baron and Dorilaus seemed to
+insist on for the accomplishment of his wishes, tho' he impatiently
+longed to see Dorilaus after so long an absence.--Tho' in the possession
+of Charlotta all his hopes were centered, yet to leave a prince who had
+so highly favoured him, and under whose banners he had gained so much
+consideration, was a piece of ingratitude, which it was worse than death
+for him to be guilty of.--No! said he, it would be to render me unworthy
+of all the blessings they make me hope, should I purchase them on such
+conditions!--How can they demand them of me!--The Baron, Charlotta, and
+Dorilaus, have all of them the highest notions of honour, generosity and
+gratitude, and can they approve that in me, which I am certain they
+would not be guilty of themselves!--Sure it is but to try me, they seem
+to exact what they are sensible I cannot yield to, without the breach of
+every thing that can entitle me to esteem or love!
+
+Thus did he argue within himself for one moment; the next, other
+reasons, directly opposite to these, presented themselves.--Dorilaus,
+cried he, demands all my obedience;--all my gratitude:--without
+protection I had been an outcast in the world!--Whatever honours,
+whatever happiness I enjoy, is it not to him I owe them! Can I refuse
+then to comply with commands, which, he says, are necessary to his
+peace!--Besides, was it not Charlotta that inspired this ardor in me for
+great actions! Was not the possession of that charming maid, the sole
+end I proposed to myself in all I have undertaken! and shall I, by
+refusing her request, madly run the risque of losing her for ever!--Does
+not she wish, her father persuade, and Dorilaus enjoin me to
+return!--Does not love, friendship, duty call me to partake the joys
+that each affords!--And shall I refuse the tender invitation!--No! the
+world cannot condemn me for following motives such as these; and even
+the royal Charles himself is too generous not to acquit me of
+ingratitude or cowardice.
+
+It must indeed be confessed he had potent inducements for his return to
+Paris, to combat against those of continuing in the king of Sweden's
+service; and both by turns appeared so prevalent, that it is uncertain
+which would have got the better, had not an accident happened, which
+unhappily determined him in favour of the latter.
+
+Colonel Poniatosky, who had attended Stanislaus into Poland, now the
+disturbances of that kingdom were quieted, on hearing the king of Sweden
+was on some new expedition, obtained leave of Stanislaus to return to
+the camp, and implored his majesty's permission to be one of those who
+should partake the glorious toils he was now re-entering into. To which
+he replied, that he should be glad to have him near his person, but
+feared he would be wanted in Poland. No, may it please your majesty,
+resumed Poniatosky, there seems to be no longer any business in that
+kingdom for a soldier:--all seem ready to obey the royal Stanislaus out
+of affection to his person, and admiration of those virtues they are now
+perfectly convinced of; nor is Augustus in a condition to violate the
+treaty of resignation:--refuse me not therefore I beseech your majesty,
+continued he, falling upon both his knees, what I look on as my greatest
+happiness, as it is my greatest glory.
+
+The king seemed very well pleased at the emphasis with which he
+expressed himself; and having raised him from the posture he was in, be
+it so, cried he, henceforward we will be inseparable.
+
+Horatio was charmed with this testimony of love and zeal in a person,
+who had doubtless friends and kindred who would have been glad he had
+less attachment to a service so full of dangers as that of the king of
+Sweden, and somewhat ashamed he had ever entertained a thought of
+quitting it, resolved, as he had been more obliged, not to shew less
+gratitude than Poniatosky. Therefore, without any further deliberation,
+retired to his quarters, and prepared the following answers to the
+letters had been brought him. As all things in a lover's heart yields to
+the darling object, the first he wrote was to his mistress.
+
+_To mademoiseile_ DE PALFOY.
+
+
+"With what transports I received yours,
+adorable Charlotta, I am little able to
+express!--To find I am not forgotten!--That
+what I have done is approved by her for
+whom alone I live, and whose praise alone can
+make me vain, so swallowed up all other considerations,
+that it had almost made me quit
+Alranstadt that moment, and fly to pour beneath
+your feet my gratitude and joy!--But
+glory, tyrannic glory, would not suffer me to
+obey the soft impulse, nor re-enjoy that blessing
+till conscious I deserved it better!--My friends
+over-rate my services; and tho' that partial indulgence
+is the ultimate of my ambition, I would
+dare not abuse what they are so good to offer."
+
+"To feast my long, long famished sight with
+gazing once more on your charms, I would
+forgo every thing but the hope of rendering myself
+one day more worthy of it!--Too dear I
+prize the good wishes you vouchsafe to have for
+me, not to attempt every thing in my power to
+prevent the disappointment of them: the little
+I have yet done, alas! serves but to prove how
+much the man, who has in view rendering himself
+acceptable to the divine Charlotta, dares
+to do, when dangers worthy of his courage
+present themselves.--A small time may, perhaps,
+afford me an opportunity:--yet did you
+know how dear this self-denial costs me, you
+would confess it the greatest proof of affection
+ever man gave:--permit me therefore to gratify
+an ambition which has no other aim than a
+justification of the favours I receive:--continue
+to look with a favourable eye on my endeavours,
+and they cannot then fail of such success,
+as may give me a claim to the glorious.
+title of my most adored and loved Charlotta's.
+
+_Everlasting Slave_,
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+To her father he wrote in the following manner:
+
+_To the baron_ DE PALFOY,
+
+_My Lord_;
+
+
+"The favours your goodness confers upon
+me are such as can be equalled by but one
+thing in the world, and that is my just and
+grateful sense of them.--Charming would be
+the toils of war, did all employed in them meet
+a recompence like mine!--Is there a man, so
+mean, so poor in spirit, that praises such as I receive
+might not animate to actions worthy of
+them!--What acknowledgments can I make
+the count suitable to the immense obligations I
+owe him, for inspiring your lordship with sentiments,
+which, tho' the supreme wish of my
+aspiring soul, I never durst allow myself to
+hope; and which afford a prospect of future
+accumulated blessings, such as I could scarce
+flatter myself with being real, were not the transporting
+idea in some measure confirmed to me,
+by your having given a sanction to a correspondence
+I so lately despaired of ever obtaining!--Blessed
+change!--Extatic condescensions!--Fortune
+has done all she can for me, and anticipated
+all the good that, after a long train of
+services and approved fidelity, I scarce should
+have presumed to hope!--Oh my lord! I have
+no words to thank you as I ought! It is deeds
+alone, and rendering myself worthy of your
+indulgence, that must preserve your good opinion,
+and keep you from repenting having overwhelmed
+me with this profusion of happiness!--Yet
+how joyfully could I now pursue the
+rout to Paris, and content myself with owing
+every thing merely to your goodness, were I
+not with-held by all the considerations that
+ought to have weight with a man of honour!--My
+royal general is inflexible to the persuasions
+of almost all the courts in Christendom,
+and hurried by his thirst of fame, or some other
+more latent motive, has given orders to prepare
+for a march, where, or against whom, is yet a
+secret to the army; but by the preparations for
+it, we believe they are not short journeys we
+are to take.--Should I now quit a service
+where I have been promoted so much beyond
+my merit, what, my lord, but cowardice or ingratitude
+could be imputed to me as the motive!
+--Not all my reasons, powerful as they are,
+would have any weight with a prince, who is
+deaf to every thing but the calls of glory; and
+I must return loaden with his displeasure, and
+the reproaches of all I leave behind!--Now
+to return is certain infamy!--To go, is in pursuit
+of honour!--Your lordship will not therefore
+be surprized I make choice of the latter,
+since no hazard can be equal to that of forfeiting
+the little reputation I have acquired, and
+which alone can render me worthy any part of
+the favours I have received.
+
+_I am_,
+
+_With the extremest respect and submission_,
+
+_Your lordship's
+
+Eternally devoted servant,_
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+The last and most difficult task he had to go thro', was the refusal he
+must give to Dorilaus, who had laid his commands on him in such express
+terms; and it was not without a good deal of blotting, altering, and
+realtering, he at length formed an epistle to him in these terms:
+
+_To my more than father, my only patron,
+protector and benefactor, the most worthy
+DORILAUS._
+
+_Most dear and ever honoured Sir,_
+
+"To hear you are living, and still remember
+me with kindness, affords too great a
+transport to suffer me to throw away any thought
+either on the motives of your long silence,
+or that happiness, which you tell me, I may
+expect has been the produce of it:--it is
+sufficient for me to know I am still blessed in
+the favor of the most excellent person that
+ever lived, and am not in the least anxious for
+an explanation of any farther good.
+
+To tell you with how much ardency I long
+to throw myself at your feet, to relate to you
+all the various accidents that have befallen me
+since first you condescended to put me in the
+paths of glory, and to pour out my soul before
+you with thanksgiving, would be as impossible
+as it is for me at present to enjoy that blessing!--The
+king's affairs, it is true, would suffer
+nothing by my absence; but, sir, what would
+the world say of me, if, after a whole year of
+inactivity and idleness, I flew, on the first appearance
+of danger, and forsook a prince, by
+whom I have been so highly favoured?--Instead
+of the character I have always been ambitious
+of attaining, should I not be branded with
+everlasting infamy!--Put not therefore, I beseech
+you, to so severe a test that love and duty,
+to which you cannot have a greater claim than
+I a readiness to pay?--Did you command my
+life, it is yours:--I owe it to you, and with it
+all that can render it agreeable; but, sir, my
+honour, my reputation, must survive when I am
+no more; it was the first, and will be the last
+bent of my desires. No perils can come in any
+degree of competition with those of being deprived
+of that, nor any indulgencies of fortune
+compensate for the loss of it:--pardon then
+this enforced disobedience, and believe it is the
+only thing in which I could be guilty of it.--
+I very much lament my sister's absence, as I
+find by yours she went without your permission:
+time and reflection will doubtless bring her to a
+more just sense of what she, as well as myself,
+ought to have of your goodness to us, and make
+her return full of sincere contrition for having
+offended you. I should implore your favourable
+opinion of her actions in the mean time,
+were not all the interest I have in you too little
+to apologize for my own behaviour.--All, sir,
+I dare to implore is pardon for myself, and that
+you will be assured no son, no dependant whatever,
+would more rejoice in an opportunity of
+testifying his duty, affection, gratitude and submission,
+than him who is now constrained by
+ties, which I flatter myself you will not hereafter
+disapprove, to swerve in some measure
+from them, and whose soul and all the faculties
+of it are
+
+_Entirely devoted to you_.
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+These dispatches being sent away, he became more composed, and set his
+whole mind on his departure, and taking leave of those friends and
+acquaintance he had contracted at Leipsic and Alranstadt; the time of
+the army marching being fixed in a few days, tho' what rout they were to
+take none, except count Piper, general Renchild, count Hoorn, and some
+few others of the cabinet council, were made privy to.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIX.
+
+_The king of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with an
+instance of Russian brutality, drives the czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken prisoner
+by the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where they suffer the
+extremest miseries_.
+
+The word at length being given, the tents were struck, the trumpets
+sounded, and the whole army was immediately in motion. Never was a more
+gay and glorious fight; the splendor of their arms, and the richness of
+their habits blazed against the sun; but what was yet more pleasing, and
+spread greater terror among their enemies, was the chearfulness that sat
+on every face, and shewed they followed with the utmost alacrity their
+beloved and victorious monarch.
+
+It was in the latter end of September, a season extremely cold in those
+parts, that they began their march but hardships were natural to the
+king of Sweden's troops; and as they perceived they were going into
+Lithuania, a place where their valour had been so well proved against
+the invading Muscovites, their cheeks glowed with a fresher red on the
+remembrance of their former victories. They passed near Dresden, the
+capital of the electorate of Saxony, and made Augustus tremble in his
+palace, tho' the word of the king, which ever was inviolable, had been
+given that he should enjoy those dominions in peace.
+
+During the course of this, the czar had fallen upon the frontiers of
+Poland above twenty times, not like a general, desiring to come to a
+decisive battle, but like a robber, plundering, ravaging, and destroying
+the defenceless country people, and immediately flying on the approach
+of any troops either of Charles XII or king Stanislaus. The Swedes in
+their march met several parties sent on these expeditions, but who
+retired on sight of the army into woods, and were most of them either
+killed or taken prisoners by detachments sent in pursuit of them by the
+king of Sweden.
+
+In their march towards Grodno they found the remains of an encampment,
+several pieces of cannon and ammunition of all forts, but not one
+creature to guard it, the troops to whom it belonged having all
+dispersed and hid themselves. On examining the tents, they were
+surprized with the sight of a very beautiful woman, who was lying on the
+ground in one of them, with three others, who seemed endeavouring to
+comfort her, and, by the respect they paid her, that they were her
+dependents; but had all of them their garments torn and bloody, their
+hair hanging in strange disorder about their ears, their flesh
+discoloured with bruises and other marks of violence, and, as well as
+their disconsolate superior, were spectacles of the utmost distress.
+
+The king of Sweden himself, followed by general Hoorn, Poniatolky,
+Horatio, and several others, who hardly ever lost sight of him, came
+into this tent, and, being touched with so moving a scene, demanded the
+Occasion; on which the prostrate lady being told who it was that spoke,
+started suddenly up, and throwing herself at his feet:--Oh king! cried
+she in the German language, as famous for justice as for being
+invincible in war, revenge the cause of helpless innocence and
+virtue!--Oh let the murderous brutal Russians find heaven's vindictive
+arm in you its great vicegerent.--She was able to utter no more: the
+inward agonies she sustained, on being about to relate the story of her
+wrongs, became too violent for speech, and she sunk motionless on the
+earth. Two of the women, assisted by some Swedes, carried her out of the
+tent, as thinking the open air most proper to revive her; and she who
+remained, satisfied the king's curiosity in these words:
+
+May it please your majesty, said she, my mistress, that afflicted lady
+who just now implored your royal pity, is of the noble family of the
+Casselburgh, in Saxony, only daughter to the present count: her person,
+before these heavy misfortunes fell upon her, was deservedly reputed one
+of the most beautiful that graced the court of Dresden: her birth, her
+youth, her charms, and the great fortune it was expected she would be
+mistress of, attracted a great number of persons who addressed her for
+marriage: her own inclinations, as well as the count her father's
+commands, disposed of her to Emmermusky, a Polish nobleman; and she had
+been scarce one month a bride, before they unhappily took this journey to
+visit my lord's mother who lives at Travenstadt.--In our way we met a
+party of straggling Muscovites, who, notwithstanding the strict league
+between our elector and the czar, and the knowledge they had by our
+passports that we were Saxons, stripped us of every thing, killed all
+our men-servants and having given my lord several wounds, left him for
+dead upon the place, then dragged us miserable women to the camp.--My
+lady, in the midst of faintings, and when she was incapable even of
+flying to death for refuse, was brutally ravished, and we her wretched
+attendants suffered the same abuse.--Shame will not let me, continued
+she, blushing and weeping, acquaint your majesty with the shocking and
+repeated violations we were compelled to bear!--the wretches casting
+lots who first should gratify his monstrous desires!--We were all bound
+to trees, and without any means of opposition but our shrieks and cries
+to unrelenting heaven!--My lord having a little recovered himself, had
+crawled, as well as his wounds would give him leave, after us, and
+arrived even while the horrid scene was acting: rage giving him new
+strength and spirits; he snatched a sword that lay upon the earth, and
+sent to perdition the villain who was about to add to the dishonour
+which had been, alas! but too much completed by others. The death of
+their companion incensing the accursed Muscovites, they turned upon him,
+and in a moment laid him dead just at the feet of his ruined and almost
+expiring wife! After having satiated their wicked will, they left us,
+bound as we were, where we continued the remainder of the day and whole
+night, and had doubtless perished thro' hunger and extreme cold, if a
+second party had not passed that way, who having been out on a maroding,
+were then returning to the camp.--Being actuated by somewhat more
+compassion than the former, one of the officers made us be untied, and
+having heard our story, blamed the cruelty with which we had been
+treated, and brought us to his tent, the same we now are in, and ordered
+something should be given for our refreshment; but my lady has continued
+obstinate to dye, and to that end has refused all subsistence. This, oh
+invincible monarch! is the sad history of our misfortunes:--misfortunes,
+which, alas! can never be retrieved, nor admit any consolation but in
+the hope of vengeance!
+
+Here a torrent of tears closed the sad narration; and the king cried
+out, turning as he spoke to us that followed him,--It is the cause of
+heaven and earth, my friends, said he, to punish these barbarians, and
+shew them that there is a God; for sure at present they are ignorant
+of it!
+
+The generous monarch after this gave orders that these afflicted and
+abused woman should be escorted to a place of safety, and for that
+purpose halted for the space of two days, then proceeded towards Grodno
+with such expedition, that after-ages will look upon it as incredible
+that so large an army, and also encumbered with a great quantity of
+baggage, could have marched in the time they did.
+
+But the king of Sweden was on fire to encounter in person the czar of
+Muscovy, who, with about 2000 men, was then in that city: so great was
+his impatience, that he galloped before his troops, not above 600 of
+those best mounted being able to keep pace with him, till he came in
+sight of the south gate, which gave him entrance without any opposition,
+while the czar and his forces made their escape out at the north gate,
+not doubting but the king of Sweden's whole army were come up with him.
+
+He was afterward so much vexed and ashamed to think he had quitted the
+town to no more than 600 of the enemy, that, to retrieve a mistake which
+he feared might be looked upon as cowardice, being informed the body, of
+the army was near five leagues off, he sent a party of 1500 horse in
+order to surprize the king and his few guards. The Muscovites entered by
+night; but the alarm being given, the fortune which still had waited on
+the Swedish armies, immediately put them all to the rout; and the army
+soon after arriving, the conqueror lost no time, but pursued those that
+remained alive into the forest of Mensky, on the other side of which the
+czar had then entrenched himself, and had made the general rendezvous of
+the Russian army, which was continually divided into parties; and
+sometimes falling on the Swedes in the rear, and sometimes in the flank,
+very much annoyed them in their march: these brave men had also other
+difficulties to encounter with; the forest was so extremely thick, that
+the infantry were obliged to fell down trees every moment, during the
+whole time of their passage, to make way for the baggage and troops.
+
+Their industry and vigour surmounting all these obstacles, they once
+more found themselves in an open country, but on the banks of a river,
+on the opposite side of which were 20,000 Muscovites placed to oppose
+their crossing. The king made no delay, but quitting his horse, threw
+himself into the river, and was instantly followed by all the foot,
+while the troops under the command of general Renchild and Hoorn,
+galloped round thro' the morrass in which that river ended, and both
+together charged the enemy, who, after some faint shew of resistance,
+fled with the utmost precipitation. The whole army being now joined
+marched on toward the Boristhenes, but with fatigues which are
+impossible to be described: Horatio kept still close to the king, and
+whether he fought or marched, was on foot or on horsback, was always in
+his fight ready to bear his commands to the generals, or assist him in
+the time of danger. More than once had the conqueror been indebted to
+this young warrior, for turning the point of the destructive sword from
+giving him the same death he was dealing about to others; yet in all the
+dangers he had been in never had he received one wound, and this often
+made the king say, who was a firm believer in predestination, that
+heaven designed him for a soldier: his fortune, his valour, his
+activity, added to his obliging and modest behaviour, indeed rendered
+him so dear to his royal master, that there were very few, if any, to
+whom he gave greater marks of his favour. And had Dorilaus, or even
+Charlotta herself, all tender as she was, and trembling for the hazards
+she knew he had been exposed to, seen him thus caressed and honoured by
+the most glorious prince and greatest hero in the world, they could
+scarce have wished him to quit the post he was in, much less persuaded
+him to do it.
+
+He hitherto indeed had experienced only the happiness of a martial life,
+for the fatigues, hardships, and dangers of it he as little regarded as
+the intrepid and indefatigable prince he served; but now arrived the
+time which was to inflict on him the worst miseries of it, and make him
+almost curse a vocation he had been in his soul so much attached to.
+
+The king of Sweden, with his usual success having passed the
+Boristhenes, encountered a party of 10,000 Muscovites and 6000 Calmuck
+Tartars; but they gave way on the first onset and fled into a wood,
+where the king, following the dictates of his great courage more than
+prudence, pursuing them, fell into an ambuscade, which, throwing
+themselves between him and three regiments of horse that were with him,
+hem'd him in, and now began a very unequal fight.--Many of the gallant
+Swedes were cut to pieces, and the Muscovites made quite up to his
+majesty:--two aid-de-camps were killed within his presence, his own
+horse was shot under him, and as an equerry was presenting him with
+another, both horse and man was struck dead in the same moment.--Horatio
+immediately alighted in order to mount the king, who now on foot behaved
+with incredible valour, in that action was surrounded and taken
+prisoner, as were several others that had fought near his person. He had
+the satisfaction, however, while they were disarming and tying his
+hands, to see colonel Dardoff with his regiment force thro' the
+Calmucks, and arrive timely enough to disengage the king, after which
+the army recovering its rank, and pouring in upon the enemy, he was not
+without hopes of regaining his liberty; but he was sat upon a horse and
+bound fast to the saddle, and compelled, with the others that were taken
+with him, to accompany the Muscovites in their flight, so was ignorant
+in what manner this re-encounter ended. Soon after repairing to the
+czar's quarters, these unfortunate officers of the king of Sweden were,
+with some others who had before become their prize, sent under a strong
+guard to Petersburgh, and thrown altogether into a miserable dungeon.
+
+It would be impossible to describe the horrors of this place:--light
+there was, but it was only so much as just served to shew to each of
+these unhappy sufferers the common calamity of them all.--The roof was
+arched indeed, but so low, that the shortest among them could scarce
+stand upright:--no kind of furniture, not even straw to cover the damp
+earthen floor, which served them for a seat by day and bed at night.
+Inured as they had been to hardships, the noisomeness of this dreadful
+vault killed many of them, and among the rest a young Swedish officer
+named Gullinstern, one with whom Horatio had contracted a very intimate
+friendship, and who, for his many excellent qualities, had been so dear
+to the king, that seeing him one day greatly wounded, and in danger of
+being taker, prisoner, that generous prince obliged him to mount on his
+own horse, and fought on foot himself till another could be brought.
+
+The light of this gentleman expiring in his arms, filled Horatio with so
+poignant an anguish, that he wanted but little of following him; and,
+indeed, had it not been for the sanguine hopes that the king would in a
+short time complete the ruin of the czar, and not only restore them
+liberty, but also add vengeance to it for the ill treatment they had
+found in his dominions, few, if any of them, had been able to support
+the miseries inflicted on them by these inhuman wretches, who, not
+content with burying them in a manner alive, for the dungeon they were
+in was deep underground, and allowing them no other food than bread and
+water once in four and twenty hours, made savage sport at their
+condition, ridiculed the conquests of their king, and spoke in the most
+opprobrious terms of his royal person, which, when some of them were
+unable to restrain themselves from answering in a manner befitting their
+duty and love of justice, they were silenced by the most cruel stripes.
+
+Thus were the officers of the king of Sweden, the meanest of whom were
+fit to be generals in any other army, subjected to the servile taunts,
+and insolent behaviour of wretches undeserving to be ranked among the
+human species.
+
+A very little time had doubtless made them all find graves among these
+barbarians; scarce a day passed over without their company decreasing by
+two or three, who were no sooner dead than dragged out by the heels, and
+thrown like dogs into a pit without the least funeral rites. But
+providence at length thought fit to send them a relief by means they
+least expected.
+
+In one of the incursions made by the Muscovites into Poland, a very
+beautiful lady, whose father had been killed in asserting the cause of
+Stanislaus, was made prisoner: prince Menzikoff, who commanded these
+batallions, saw her, and became enamoured of her charms: she was
+destitute of all friends, and in the conqueror's power, so thought it
+best to yield what otherwise she found him determined to seize: in fine,
+she was his mistress; and her ready compliance with his desires,
+together with the love she either had or feigned to have for him,
+afterward gained her an absolute ascendant over him. Every one knows the
+interest he had with the czar; and he so far exerted it, as to get this
+fair favourite lodged in the palace, where she was served with the same
+state and respect as if she had been his wife.
+
+This lady, whose name was Edella, happened to be walking with some of
+her attendants near where these unfortunate gentlemen were buried, at a
+time when three of them were dragged to their wretched sepulchre, was
+touched with compassion to see any thing that had a human shape thus
+coarsely treated, tho' after death, and had the curiosity to order one
+of her people to enquire who those persons were, and what they had done,
+which hindered them from being allowed a christian burial.
+
+She was no sooner informed that they were Swedish prisoners, than her
+soul shuddered at the thoughts of the Russian barbarity; and not
+doubting but their usage during life had been of a piece with that after
+their death, she resolved, if possible, to procure some abatement of the
+miseries of those who yet survived.
+
+To this end she made it her business to examine what number of prisoners
+had been brought, of what condition they were, and where lodged; and
+being well acquainted with all she wanted to know, went to the governor
+of Petersburg, and so well represented how dishonourable it was to the
+czar, and how opposite to the law of nations, to treat prisoners of war
+in a worse manner than they would do condemned felons, that he knowing
+the power of prince Menzikoff, and fearing to disoblige one so dear to
+him by a refusal, consented they should be removed into an upper part of
+the prison where they would have more air, and also that they should
+have an allowance of meat every day.
+
+As the governor was a true Muscovite in his nature and had an implacable
+hatred to the king of Sweden and all that belonged to him, this was
+gaining a great deal; but it was not enough to satisfy the charitable
+disposition of Edella; after their removal, she went in person to visit
+those of them whom she heard were gentlemen, and finding them covered
+only with rags, which some of the soldiers had put on them after having
+stripped them of their own rich habits, she ordered others lined with
+furs to be made for them, to defend them from the coldness of the
+season; and not content to retrench a great part of her own table, sold
+several fine jewels, and other trinkets the prince had bestowed on her,
+to supply them with wine, and whatever necessaries she supposed them to
+be accustomed to. That she might be certain those entrusted by her did
+not abuse her good intentions, she went often to the prison herself to
+see how they were served, and would sometimes enter into discourse with
+them concerning the battles they had been in, the settlement of
+Stanislaus, and many other things relating to the Polish affairs. The
+gallant and courtly manner in which Horatio expressed himself on every
+occasion, made her take a particular pleasure in hearing him speak: that
+rough blunt behaviour to which she had been accustomed since her being
+brought a captive into Muscovy, gave double charms to the politeness
+with which she found herself entertained by our young warrior; his
+blooming years, and the gracefulness of his person, contributed not a
+little also towards rendering every thing he said more agreeable. Her
+liking of him grew by degrees into a friendship, no less tender than
+that one feels for very near relations, and who have never done any
+thing to disoblige us, are more endeared by being under undeserved
+calamity: but as the inclination she had for him was perfectly innocent,
+and no ways prejudicial to the prince who was in possession of her
+person, she made no secret of it either to himself or those she
+conversed with, and was always talking of the wit, delicacy, and
+handsomeness of one of those prisoners, whom it was well known were
+pensioners to her bounty. But how dangerous is it to be too open before
+persons who, void of all true generosity, or the lead principle of
+honour themselves, never fail to put the worst construction on the
+actions of others. Edella was very near being undone by her sincerity in
+acknowledging the distinction she paid to merit, or the compassion she
+felt for misfortunes, in a country where humanity to enemies is looked
+upon as a crime, friendship to those of the same party altogether
+unknown, and even common civility never practised but for the
+gratification of self-interest, or some favourite passion.
+
+This beautiful Polander however being treated by the Muscovites, on
+account of the influence she had over the prince Menzikoff, with as much
+complaisance as it was in their power to shew, imagined their
+disposition less savage than it was in reality; and when she testified
+the pity she had for those unhappy gentlemen, it was with design to
+excite it in others, and engage them to join with her in petitioning the
+czar, at his return, for their enlargement, there being no cartel or
+exchange of prisoners subsisting between him and the king of Sweden.
+
+Among the number she hoped to gain to her party was Mattakesa, the
+relique of a general who had been in great favour with his prince. This
+lady, who could speak French, having learned it of a recusant that took
+shelter in Russia, consented to go with her one day to the prison, and
+no sooner saw Horatio, than, unfortunately for him, Edella, and herself,
+she became charmed with him: as she was of the number of those who think
+nothing a crime that suits their own inclination, she took not the least
+pains to subdue the growing passion, but rather indulged it, in order to
+receive the highest degree of pleasure in the gratification. She doubted
+not but Edella was her rival, and that it was for his sake alone she had
+been so beneficent to his fellow-sufferers: to supplant her, therefore,
+was the first step she had to take, and she resolved to omit nothing for
+that purpose.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XX.
+
+_The treachery of a Russian lady to her friend: her passion for Horatio:
+the method he took to avoid making any return, and some other
+entertaining occurrences._
+
+It is easy to believe that Horatio, tho' relieved from that extremity of
+misery he suffered while in the dungeon, was far from being able to
+content himself with his present condition:--a thousand times he
+reproached himself for pursuing the dictates of a glory which now seemed
+so tyrannic:--Have I, cried he, hazarded the eternal displeasure of the
+best of men,--refused the invitation of the adorable
+Charlotta,--slighted the condescentions of her father,--been deaf both
+to interest and love, to become a prisoner to the worst of
+barbarians!--Who now will pity me!--Or if they yet would be so good, how
+shall I acquaint them with my wretched fate!--Nay, were there even a
+possibility of that, what would the compassion of the whole world avail,
+since a slave to those, who, contrary to the law of nations, and even
+common humanity, refuse, on any terms, to release the wretches fallen
+into their savage power!
+
+In this manner did he bewail himself night and day, and indeed had but
+too just reasons for doing so:--he had heard that the last time the czar
+had been at Petersburg, he had sent all the prisoners he had then taken
+to Siberia, and other province of the greater Tartary, where they were
+compelled, without any distinction, to do the work of horses rather than
+men, and doubted not but at his next return all those now in his power
+would meet the same fate, tho' the generous king of Sweden had sent back
+the Muscovites he had taken, by 1500 and 2000 at a time.--This, however,
+may be said in favour of the czar, that by the many attempts he made to
+civilize his barbarous subjects, it must be supposed he would have been
+glad to have imitated this generosity, had it been confident with his
+safety; but the case had this difference, Charles XII. feared not the
+number of the Muscovites, but the czar feared the courage of the Swedes.
+
+What also increased the affliction of these gentlemen, was, that being
+debarred from all intelligence, they could hear nothing of their king,
+whom each of them loved with a kind of filial affection and
+duty.--Horatio and two others had been witnesses of the extreme danger
+in which they left him; and tho' at the time they were seized he had
+killed thirteen or fourteen Muscovites with his own hand, and they
+perceived general Dardoff had come up to his relief, yet they could not
+be certain of his safety; till at length the sweet-conditioned Edella
+perceiving the despair they were in on this account, informed them that
+his majesty was not only well, but as successful as ever; that he had
+passed far into Ukrania, had defeated the Muscovites in five battles,
+and so far reduced the czar, that he had condescended to make some
+overtures of peace; which having been rejected, it was the common
+opinion, that in a very short time the Swedes would enter Moscow, and
+become arbiters of Russia as they had been of Poland.
+
+Adequate to their late grief was their satisfaction at this joyful
+news:--Horatio was transported above his companions, and threw himself
+at the feet of the fair intelligencer; but she desired they would all of
+them moderate their contentment so far as to hinder the guards, who had
+the care of them, from perceiving it, because, said she, it might not
+only draw on yourselves worse treatment, but also render me suspected of
+being against the interest of a court, on which my fate has reduced me
+to become a dependant.
+
+Horatio, as well as the others, assured her he would take care to manage
+the felicity she had bestowed upon them, so as not to be any way
+prejudicial to her; and she took her leave, promising to be with them
+again in a few days, and bring them farther information, a courier from
+the camp, she said, being expected every hour.
+
+But while this compassionate lady was pleasing herself, by giving all
+the ease in her power to the distressed, the cruel Mattakesa was
+plotting her destruction.--She had several of her kindred, and a great
+many acquaintance in the army, who were in considerable posts, to all of
+whom she exclaimed against the loose behaviour, as she termed it, of
+Edelia, and represented her charities to the prisoners as the effects of
+a wanton inclination:--this she doubted not but would come to prince
+Menzikoff's ears, and perhaps incense him enough to cause her to be
+privately made away with; for as she imagined nothing less than the most
+amorous intercourse between her and Horatio, she thought it unadvisable
+to declare the passion she had for him, till a rival so formidable, by
+the advantages she had over her in youth and beauty, should be removed.
+
+This base woman therefore impatiently waited the arrival of the next
+courier, to find how far her stratagem had succeeded; and the moment she
+heard he had delivered his dispatches, flew to the apartment of Edella,
+in hopes of being informed of what she so much desired to know.
+
+She was not altogether deceived in her expectations: she found that lady
+drowned in tears, with a letter lying open before her; and on her
+enquiring, with a shew of the utmost concern, the motives of her grief,
+the other, who looked on her as her real friend, replied, alas!
+Mattakesa, I have cruel enemies; I cannot guess for what cause, for
+willingly I never gave offence to any one;--but see, continued she, how
+barbarously they have abused my innocence, and represented actions
+which, heaven knows, were influenced only by charity and compassion as
+the worst of crimes! with these words she gave her the letter which she
+had just received from the prince,
+
+Mattakesa took it with a greedy pleasure, and found it contained these
+lines:
+
+_To_ EDELLA.
+
+Madam,
+
+
+"I left you in a place, furnished, as I thought,
+with every thing necessary for your satisfaction;
+but I find I was mistaken in your constitution,
+and that there was something wanting,
+which, rather than not possess, you must have
+recourse to a prison to procure:--ungrateful
+as you are to the affection I have treated you
+with, I am sorry for your ill conduct, and could
+with you had been, at least, more private in
+your amours: few men but would have sent an
+order for removing you and the persons, for
+whose sake you have made these false steps,
+into a place where you would have cause to
+curse the fatal inclination that seduced you:
+think therefore how much you owe a prince,
+who, instead of punishing your faults, contents
+himself with letting you know he is not ignorant
+of them.--If you make a right use of
+the lenity I shew on this occasion, you may
+perhaps retrieve some part of the influence you
+once had over me; but see the Swedish prisoners
+no more, if you hope or desire ever to see
+
+MENZIKOFF."
+
+
+Mattakesa affected the greatest astonishment on having read this letter;
+and after having cursed the persons that put such vile suspicions into
+the prince's head, asked her what she intended to do.
+
+What can I do! answered the sorrowful Edella, but write to my lord all
+the assurances that words, can give him, which heaven knows I can truly
+do, that I never wronged him even in wish or thought; and that since
+there are people so cruel to misinterpret to my dishonour, what was
+nothing but mere charity, to obey his commands with the utmost
+punctuality, and never set my foot into that prison more?
+
+Her false friend could not but applaud her resolution, yet told her it
+was pity that ill tongues should deprive those unfortunate gentlemen of
+the relief she had hitherto afforded them, or herself of the pleasure
+she took in their conversation.
+
+As for the first, said Edella, heaven may perhaps raise the mother
+friends more capable of lifting them; and as to the other, were it
+infinitely greater, it would be my inclination, as it is my duty, to
+sacrifice every thing to the will of a prince whom I love, and to whom I
+am so much obliged.
+
+Mattakesa having thus compared her design, so far as to be under no
+apprehensions of being interrupted by her imagined rival, tho' she had
+rather she had been poisoned or strangled, went directly to the prison
+and told the gentlemen, it was with the utmost concern she must acquaint
+them that Edella would never visit them any more, nor continue the
+weekly pension she had hitherto allowed them.
+
+Those among them who understood her, and the others to whom Horatio
+interpreted what she said, looked one upon another with a great deal of
+consternation, as imagining one of them had done something to offend
+her, and thereby the rest were thought unworthy of her
+favours.--Everyone endeavoured to clear himself of what he easily saw
+his companions suspected him guilty of; till Mattakesa, with a scornful
+smile, told them, that it was not owing to the behaviour of any of them,
+but to Edella's own inconstant disposition, that they owed the
+withdrawing of her bounty; but to console them for the loss of it, she
+promised to speak to some of her friends in their behalf, and also to
+contribute something herself towards alleviating their misfortunes; but,
+added she, I am not the mistress of a prince and first favourite, so
+have it not in my power to act as the generosity of my nature
+inclines me to do.
+
+She stayed with them a considerable time, and entertained them with
+little else than railing on Edella; and to make her appear as odious and
+contemptible as she could to Horatio, insinuated that it was for the
+sake of a young needy favourite she had been obliged to withdraw the
+allowance they had from her.
+
+On taking leave she found means to slip a little billet into Horatio's
+hands, unperceived by any of the company, which, as soon as he had a
+convenient opportunity, he opened, and found these words in French:
+
+_To the agreeable_ HORATIO.
+
+SIR,
+
+
+"Tho' I have not perhaps so much beauty
+as Edella, I have twice her sincerity, and
+not many years older: such as I am, however,
+I fancy you will think a correspondence with
+me of too much advantage to be refused:--if
+you will counterfeit an indisposition, to-morrow
+I will out of excessive charity visit you, and
+bring you a refreshment, I flatter myself, will
+not be disagreeable to a man in your circumstances:--farewell;--be
+secret,--and love as well as you can,
+
+_Yours_,
+
+MATTAKESA."
+
+
+Of all the accidents that had befallen Horatio since his leaving
+England, none ever so much surprized him as the prodigious impudence of
+this lady: he had heard talk of such adventures, but never till now
+believed there could be any such thing in nature, as a woman that
+offered herself in this manner, without the least sollicitation from the
+person on whom she wished to lavish what ought only to be the reward of
+an approved, or at least a shew of the most violent passion.
+
+The dilemma he was in how to behave, was also equal to his
+astonishment:--had she been the most lovely of her sex, as she was very
+much the reverse, the ever present idea of his dear Charlotta would have
+defended his heart from the invasions of any other charms; but he needed
+not that pre-engagement to make him look with detestation on a woman of
+Mattakesa's principles:--when he reflected on what she had said
+concerning Edella, he found her base, censorious, and unjust:--and when
+he considered the manner in which she proceeded in regard to himself, he
+saw a lewdness and audacity which rendered her doubly odious, to
+him:--he doubted not but she was wicked and subtle enough to contrive
+some means of revenging herself, in case she met with a disappointment
+in her wishes, yet had too great an abhorrence to be able to entertain
+one thought of gratifying them.
+
+As he was young and unexperienced in the world, he would have been glad
+of some advice how to act so as not to incur her resentment, yet avoid
+her love; but the strict notions he had of honour remonstrated to him
+that he ought not to betray a secret of that nature, tho' confided in
+him by an ill woman.--Her baseness, cried he to himself, would be no
+excuse for mine; and it is better for me to risque whatever her malice
+may inflict, than forfeit my character, by exposing a woman who pretends
+to love me.
+
+These thoughts kept him waking the whole night; and his restlessness
+being observed by an old Swedish officer who by with him, he was very
+much importuned by him to discover to him the occasion.--Horatio
+defended himself for a good while by the considerations before recited;
+but at length reflecting; that the person who was so desirous of being
+let into the secret, had a great deal of discretion, he at length
+suffered himself to be prevailed upon, and told him what Mattakesa had
+wrote to him, for he did not understand a word of French, so could not
+read the letter.
+
+This officer no sooner heard the story, than he laughed heartily at the
+scruples of Horatio, in thinking himself bound to conceal an affair of
+this nature with a woman of the character Mattakesa must needs be:--he
+also rallied his delicacy, as he termed it, in hesitating one moment
+whether he should gratify the lady's inclinations.--One would imagine,
+said he, that so long a fall from love as we have had, should render our
+appetites more keen:--what, tho' Mattakesa be neither handsome nor very
+young, she is a woman, and amorous, and methinks there should need no
+other excitements to a young man like you.
+
+Horatio, tho' naturally gay, was not at present in a disposition to
+continue this raillery, and told his friend, he looked on this
+inclination of Mattakesa to be as great a misfortune as could happen to
+them; for, said he, as it is wholly out of my power to make her any
+returns, that violence of temper which has transported her to forget the
+modesty of her sex, will probably, when she finds herself rejected, make
+her as easily throw off all the softness of it; and you may all feel the
+effects of that revenge she will endeavour to take on me.
+
+The other was entirely of his opinion; and they both agreed that, some
+way ought to thought on to avert the storm, her resentment might in all
+probability occasion.
+
+After many fruitless inventions, they at last hit upon one which had a
+prospect of success: they had in their company a gentleman called
+Mullern, nephew to chancellor Mullern, who had attended the king in all
+his wars: he was handsome, well made, and his age, tho' much superior to
+that of Horatio, yet was not so far advanced as to render him
+disagreeable to the fair sex: he was of a more than ordinary sanguine
+disposition, and had often said, of all the hardships their captivity
+had inflicted on them, he felt none so severely as being deprived of a
+free conversation with women.--In the ravages the king of Sweden's arms
+had made in Lithuania, Saxony and Poland, he was sure to secure to
+himself three or four of the finest women; and tho' he had been often
+checked by his uncle, and even by the king himself, for giving too great
+a loose to his amorous inclinations, yet all their admonitions were too
+weak to restrain the impetuosity of his desires this way. To him,
+therefore, they resolved to communicate the affair; and as he was in
+other respects the most proper object among them to succeed in
+supplanting Horatio, so he was also by being perfectly well versed in
+the French language, which the rest were ignorant of.
+
+Accordingly they told him what had happened, shewed him the letter, and
+how willing Horatio would be to transfer all the interest he had in this
+lady to him, if he could by any means ingratiate himself into her
+favour. Mullern was transported at the idea; and the stratagem contrived
+among them for this purpose was executed in the following manner:
+
+Mattakesa was punctual to the promise she had made in her letter; and
+when she came into the room, where she usually found the gentlemen
+altogether, it being that where they dined, and saw not Horatio, she
+doubted not but he had observed her directions, and pretended himself
+indisposed, so asked for him, expecting to be told that he was ill; but
+when they answered that he was gone with one of the keepers to the top
+of the round tower, in order to satisfy his curiosity in taking a view
+of the town, she was confounded beyond expression, and could not imagine
+what had occasioned him to slight an assignation, she had flattered
+herself he would receive with extacy.
+
+As she was in a little resvery, endeavouring to comprehend, if possible,
+the motive of so manifest a neglect, Mullern drew near to her, and
+beginning to speak of the beauties of that fine city which the czar had
+erected in the midst of war, he told her, that having a little skill in
+drawing, he had ventured to make a little sketch of it in chalk on the
+walls of the room where he lay, and entreated her in the most gallant
+manner to look upon it, and give him her opinion how far he had done
+justice to an edifice so much admired.
+
+It cannot be supposed that Mattakesa had in her soul any curiosity to
+see a work of this nature, yet, to hide as much as she could the
+disorder she was in at her disappointment, gave him her hand, in order
+to be concluded to the place where he pretended to have been exercising
+his genius.
+
+As soon as they were entered he threw the door, as if by incident, which
+having a spring lock, immediately was made fast--She either did not, or
+seemed not to regard what he had done; but casting her eyes round the
+room, and seeing nothing of what he had mentioned,--Where is this
+drawing? cried she. In my heart, adorable Mattakesa, answered he, falling
+at her feet at the same time:--it is not the city of Petersburg, but the
+charming image of its brightest ornament, that the god of love has
+engraven on my heart in characters too indelible ever to be
+erased:--from the first moment I beheld those eyes my soul has been on
+fire, and I must have consumed with inward burnings had I not revealed
+my flame:--pardon, continued he, the boldness of a passion which knows
+no bounds; and tho' I may not be so worthy of your love as the too happy
+Horatio, I am certainly not less deserving of your pity.
+
+Surprize, and perhaps a mixture of secret satisfaction prevented her
+from interrupting him during the first part of his discourse; but rage,
+at the mention of Horatio, forced from her this exclamation:--has the
+villain then betrayed me! cried she.--No, madam, replied he, justice
+obliges me to acquit him, tho' my rival.--He had the misfortune, in
+putting your billet into his pocket, to let it fall; I took it up unseen
+by him,--opened it, read it, and must confess, that all my generosity to
+my friend was wholly swallowed up in my passion for you.--I returned not
+to him that kind declaration you were pleased to make him, and he is
+ignorant of the blessing you intended for him:--if the crime I have been
+guilty of seem unpardonable in your eyes, command my death, I will
+instantly obey you, for life would be a torment under your displeasure;
+and if, in my last moments, you vouchsafe some part of that softness to
+the occasion of my fate, that you so lavishly bestowed on the fortunate
+Horatio, I will bless the lovely mouth that dooms me to destruction!
+
+He pronounced all this with an emphasis, which made her not doubt the
+power of her charms; and surveying him while he was speaking, found
+enough in his person to compensate for the disappointment she had met
+with from Horatio: besides, she reflected, that if what he had told her
+concerning the dropping her letter, was a fiction, it was however an
+ingenious one, and shewed his wit, as well as love, in bringing both
+himself and friend off in so handsome a manner. She was infatuated with
+the praises he gave her;--the pathetic expressions he made use of,
+assured her of the ardency of his desires, and as she could not be
+certain of being able to inspire Horatio with the same, she wisely chose
+to accept the present offer, rather than wait for what might perhaps at
+last deceive her expectations. She made, however, no immediate answer;
+but her eyes told him she was far from being displeased with what he had
+said, and gave him courage to take up one of her hands and kiss it, with
+an eagerness which confirmed his protestations.
+
+At last,--Well, Mullern, said she, looking languishingly on him, since
+chance has made you acquainted with my foible, I think I must bribe you
+to secrecy, by forgiving the liberties you take with me:--and if I were
+convinced you really love me as well as you pretend, might indulge you
+yet farther.--An unaccountable caprice indeed swayed me in favour of
+Horatio, but I am now half inclinable to believe you are more deserving
+my regard;--but rise, continued she, I will hear nothing from you while
+in that posture.
+
+Mullern, who was no less bold in love than war, immediately obeyed her,
+and testified his gratitude for her condescention, by giving a sudden
+spring and snatching her to his breast, pressed her in so arduous a
+manner, that she would have been incapable of resisting, even tho' she
+had an inclination to do so: but she, no less transported than himself,
+returned endearment for endearment, and not only permitted, but assisted
+all his raptures,--absolutely forgot Horatio, as well as all sense of
+her own shame, and yielded him a full enjoyment without even an
+affectation of repugnance.
+
+Both parties, in fine, were perfectly satisfied with each other, and
+having mutually sworn a thousand oaths of fidelity which neither of
+them, it is probable, had any intention to keep, Mullern took upon
+himself the care of continuing to entertain her in private as often as
+she came to the prison, and in return she made him a present of a purse
+of gold, after which they passed into the outer room to prevent censures
+on their staying too long together.
+
+On their return they found Horatio with the other gentlemen. Abandoned
+as Mattakesa was, she could not keep herself from blushing a little at
+sight of him; but soon recovering herself by the help of her natural
+audacity,--Well, Horatio, said she, what do you think of the little
+French epigram I put into your hands yesterday;--has it not a very
+agreeable point?
+
+Horatio had such an aversion to all kind of deceit, that even here,
+where it was so necessary, he could not, without some hesitation, answer
+to what she said in these words.--Some accident or other, cried he,
+deprived me of the pleasure you were so good to intend me; for when I
+put my hand in my pocket thinking to read it, I perceived I was so
+unhappy as to have lost, it:--I looked for it in vain:--it was
+irrecoverably gone, and I am an utter stranger to the contents.
+
+And ever shall be so, replied she tartly, only to punish your
+carelessness of a lady's favour; know, that it was a piece of wit which
+would have been highly agreeable to you:--but don't expect I shall take
+the pains to write it over again, or even tell you the subject on which
+it turned.
+
+Horatio cooly said, he could not but confess he had been to blame, and
+must therefore allow the justice of her proceeding. As none present
+besides himself, his bedfellow, and Mullern, knew the truth of this
+affair, what passed between them was taken by the others as literally
+spoken, and little suspected to couch the mystery it really did.
+
+Mullern, after this, by the assistance of Horatio and the old officer,
+had frequent opportunities of gratifying his own and the amorous
+Mattakesa's desires.--The testimonies she gave him how well she was
+pleased with his conversation, were for the common good of his
+companions.--Horatio was easy in finding himself out of all danger of
+any solicitations he was determined never to acquiesce in; and those
+three who were in the secret passed their time pleasantly enough,
+whenever they had an opportunity of talking on this adventure, without
+any of the others being witnesses of what they said.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXI.
+
+_The prisoners expectations raised: a terrible disappointment: some of
+the chief carried to prince Menzikoff's palace: their usage there.
+Horatio set at liberty, and the occasion_.
+
+Our captives had soon after a new matter of rejoicing: a Polander in the
+service of Muscovy, who had been taken prisoner by the Swedes, and was
+discharged and sent home, with a great number of others, by the
+unparallell'd generosity of Charles XII. was one of the guards who now
+did duty in the prison. It was often his turn to bring them their poor
+allowance of provision; and having some pity for their condition, as
+well as gratitude for a people who had used him and his companions in a
+different manner, told them, that they might be of good heart, for, said
+he, you will soon be set at liberty:--our emperor has enough to do to
+keep his ground in Ukraina: Charles is as victorious as ever:--the
+prince of the Cosaques, one of the bravest men on earth, next to
+himself, has entered into an alliance with him:--king Stanislaus is
+sending him succours from Poland:--a powerful reinforcement is coming to
+him from Lithuania; and when these armies are joined, as I believe they
+already are, nothing can withstand them:--you will hear the Swedish
+march beat from this prison walls,--and perhaps see your present
+conquerors change places with you; and, to confirm the truth of what I
+say, continued he, I can further assure you that the czar, before I left
+the camp, was in the utmost confusion:--his council, as well as army,
+were at a stand, and he had twice made overtures of peace, and
+been refused.
+
+This was an intelligence which might well be transporting to the king of
+Sweden's officers:--the thought; of seeing him enter Petersburgh a
+conqueror,--of once more embracing their old friends and companions, and
+of triumphing over those who had so cruelly abused the power the chance
+of war had put into their hands, made them all, in their turns, hug and
+bless the kind informer:--they also asked him several questions
+concerning the generals; and each being more particular concerning those
+they had the greatest interest in, received from this honest soldier all
+the satisfaction they could desire.
+
+As couriers were continually arriving from the army, there passed few
+days without hearing some farther confirmation of their most sanguine
+expectations; but at length the guard being again changed, they lost all
+further intelligence, and were for several months without being able to
+hear any thing of what passed. They doubted not, however, but as things
+were in so good a disposition, every day brought them nearer to the
+completion of their wishes; and it was this pleasing prospect which
+addressed their misfortunes, and enabled them to sustain cheerfully
+those hardships which, almost ever since the withdrawing of Edella's
+bounty, they had laboured under.--Mattakesa, in the beginning of her
+amours with Mullern, had indeed made him some presents, which he shared
+with his companions; but either the natural inconstancy of her temper
+making her grow weary of this intrigue for the sake of another, or her
+circumstances not allowing her to continue such Donations, she soon grew
+sparing of them, and at length totally desisted her visits at
+the prison.
+
+As, ever since the compassionate Edella had procured them to be
+removed from the dungeon, they had enjoyed the privilege of walking on
+the leads, and going up to the round tower, which being of a very great
+height, not only overlooked the town, but the country round for a
+considerable distance, they frequently made use of this indulgence, at
+first for no other purpose than to have the benefit of the open air, but
+now in hope of seeing their beloved prince at the head of a victorious
+army approaching to give them liberty and relief.--But, alas! how
+terrible a reverse of their high-raised expectations had inconstant
+fortune in store for them.--One day as they were sitting together,
+discoursing on the usual topics with which they entertained each other,
+and endeavoured to beguile the tedious time, they heard a confused noise
+as of some sudden tumult.--Tho' they had now been above a year in
+Russia, none of them could speak the language well enough to be
+understood, so could receive no information from the guard, even should
+they have proved good-natured enough to be willing to satisfy their
+curiosity, so they all run hastily up to the round tower, whence they
+easily perceived the town in great confusion, and the people running in
+such crowds, that in the hurry many were trampled to death in
+endeavouring to pass the gates:--at a distance they perceived standards
+waving in the air, but could not yet distinguish what arms they bore.--A
+certain shivering and palpitation, the natural consequence of suspence,
+ran thro' all their nerves, divided as they were at this sight, between
+hope and fear; but when it drew more near,--when, instead of Swedish
+colours they beheld those of Russia;--when, in the place where they
+expected to see their gallant king coming to restore them once more to
+freedom, they saw the implacable czar enter in triumph, followed by
+those heroes, the least of whom had lately made him tremble, now in
+chains, and exposed to the ribald mirth and derision of the gaping
+crowd, they lost at once their fortitude, and even all sense of
+expressing their grief at this misfortune:--the shock of it was so
+violent, it even took away the power of feeling it, and they remained
+for some moments rather like statues carv'd out by mortal art, than real
+men created by God, and animated with living souls. A general groan was
+the first mark they gave of any sensibility of this dreadful stroke of
+fate; but when recruited spirits once more gave utterance to words, how
+terrible were their exclamations! Some of them, in the extravagance of
+despair, said things relating to fate and destiny, which, on a less
+occasion, could have little merited forgiveness.
+
+Unable either to remove from the place, or view distinctly what their
+eyes were fixed upon, they stayed till the whole cavalcade was passed,
+then went down and threw themselves upon the floor, where their ears
+were deafen'd by the noise of guns, loud huzza's, and other testimonies
+of popular rejoicings, both within and without the prison walls.--What
+have we now to expect? cried one,--endless slavery:--chains, infamy,
+lasting as our lives, replied another. Then let us dye, added a third.
+Right, said his companion feircely;--the glory of Sweden is lost!--Let
+us disappoint these barbarians, these Russian monsters, of the pleasure
+of insulting us on our country's fall.
+
+In this romantic and distracted manner did they in vain endeavour to
+discharge their breasts of the load of anguish each sustained.--Their
+misfortune was not of a nature to be alleviated by words;--it was too
+mighty for expression; and the more they spoke, the more they had yet to
+say.--For three whole days they refused the wretched sustenance brought
+to them; neither did the least slumber ever close their eyelids by
+night: on the fourth the keeper of the prison came, and told them they
+must depart.---They endeavoured not to inform themselves how or where
+they were to be disposed of; in their present condition all places were
+alike to them, so followed him, without speaking, down stairs, at the
+bottom of which they found a strong guard of thirty soldiers, who having
+chained them in a link, like slaves going to be sold at the market,
+conducted them to a very stately palace adjoining to that belonging
+to the czar.
+
+They were but eight in number, out of fifty-five who had been taken
+prisoners at the time Horatio was, and were thrown altogether in the
+dungeon, the others having perished thro' cold and the noysomeness of
+the place, before Edella had procured them a more easy situation; but
+these eight that survived were all officers, and most of them men of
+distinguished birth as well as valour, tho' their long imprisonment,
+scanty food, and more than all, the grief they at present laboured under
+made them look rather like ghosts, than men chose out of thousands to
+fight always near the king of Sweden's person in every
+hazardous attempt.
+
+They were placed in a stately gallery, and there left, while the
+officer, who commanded the party that came with them, went into an inner
+room, but soon after returned, and another person with him; on which,
+the first of this unhappy string was loosed from his companions, and a
+signal made to him to enter a door, which was opened for him, and
+immediately closed again.
+
+For about half an hour there was a profound silence: our prisoners kept
+it thro' astonishment; and the others, it is to be supposed, had orders
+for doing so.--At the end of that time the door was again opened, and
+the chain which fastened the second Swede to the others, was untied, and
+he, in like manner as the former, bid to go in.--In some time after, the
+same ceremony was observed to a third;--then to a fourth, fifth, sixth,
+and seventh:--Horatio chanced to be the last, who, tho' alarmed to a
+very great degree at the thoughts of what fate might have been inflicted
+on his companions, went fearless in, more curious to know the meaning of
+this mysterious proceeding, than anxious for what might befal him.
+
+He had no sooner passed the door, than he found himself in a spacious
+chamber richly adorned, at the upper end of which sat a man, leaning his
+head upon his arm in a thoughtful posture.--Horatio immediately knew him
+to be prince Menzikoff, whom he had seen during a short truce between
+the czar and king Charles of Sweden, when both their armies were in
+Lithuania. There were no other persons present than one who had the
+aspect of a jew, and as it proved was so, that stood near the prince's
+chair, and a soldier who kept the door.
+
+Horatio was bid to approach, and when he did so,--you are called hither,
+said the jew in the Swedish language, to answer to such questions as
+shall be asked you, concerning a conspiracy carried on between you and
+your fellow-prisoners with the enemies of Russia. Horatio understood the
+language perfectly well, having conversed so long with Swedes, but never
+could attain to a perfect pronounciation of it, so replied in French,
+that he knew the prince could speak French, and he would therefore
+answer to any interrogatories his highness should be pleased to make
+without the help of an interpreter.
+
+Are you not then a Swede? said the prince. Horatio then told him that he
+was not, but came from France into the service of the king of Sweden
+merely thro' his love of arms.
+
+On these words Menzikoff dismissed the jew, and looked earnestly on him;
+wan and pale as he was grown thro' his long confinement, and the many
+hardships he had sustained, this prince found something in him that
+attracted his admiration.--Methinks, said he, since glory was your aim,
+you might as well have hoped to acquire it under the banners of our
+invincible emperor.
+
+Alas! my lord, replied Horatio with a sigh, that title, till very
+lately, was given to the king of Sweden, and, I believe, whatever fate
+has attended that truly great prince, those who had the honour to be
+distinguished by him, will never be suspected either of cowardice or
+baseness.--It was by brave and open means our king taught his soldiers
+the way to victory, not by mean subterfuges and little plots:--I cannot
+therefore conceive for what reason I am brought hither to be examined on
+any score that has the appearance of a conspiracy.
+
+Yes, replied the prince feircely, you and your fellow-prisoners have
+endeavoured to insinuate yourselves into the favour of persons whom you
+imagined entrusted with the secrets of the government:--being prisoners
+of war, you formed contrivances for your escape, and attempted to
+inveigle others to accompany your flight.
+
+That every tittle of this accusation is false, my lord, cried Horatio,
+there needs no more than the improbability of it to prove.--Indeed the
+cruel usage we sustained, might have justified an attempt to free
+ourselves, yet did such a design never enter our heads:--we were so far
+from making use of any stratagems for that purpose, that we never made
+the least overture to any of the guards, who were the only persons we
+were allowed to converse with.
+
+How! said the prince interrupting him, were not your privileges enlarged
+by the interposition of a lady?--Did she not make you considerable
+allowances out of her own purse, and frequently visit you to receive
+your thanks?--And were you not emboldened by these favours to urge her
+to reveal what secrets were in her knowledge, and even to assist you in
+your escape?--You doubtless imagined you could prevail on her also to go
+with you:--part of this, continued he, she has herself confessed:--it
+will therefore be in vain for you to deny it:--if you ingenuously reveal
+these particulars she has omitted, you may hope to find favour; but it
+you obstinately persist, as your companions have done, in attempting to
+impose upon me, you must expect to share the same fate immediately.
+
+In speaking these words he made a sign to the soldier, who throwing open
+a large folding door, discovered a rack on which one of the Swedish
+officers was tied, and the others stood near bound, and in the hands of
+the executioner.
+
+This sight so amazed Horatio, that he had not the power of speaking one
+word;--till Mullern, who happened to be the person that was fastened
+upon the rack, cried out to him,--Be not lost in consideration, Horatio,
+said he; are we not in the hands of Muscovites, from whom nothing that
+is human can be expected?--rather prepare yourself to disappoint their
+cruelty, by bravely suffering all they dare inflict.
+
+Hold then, said Horatio, even Muscovites would chuse to have some
+pretence for what they do; and sure the first favourite and
+generalissimo of a prince, who boasts an inclination to civilize his
+barbarous subjects, will not, without any cause, torture them whom
+chance alone has put into his power, and who have never done him any
+personal injury.--By heaven, pursued he, turning to the prince, we all
+are innocent of any part of those crimes laid to our charge:--time,
+perhaps, if our declarations are ineffectual, will convince your
+highness we are so, and you will then regret the injustice you have
+done us.
+
+You all are in one story, cried the prince, but I am well assured of the
+main point:--the particulars is all I want to be informed of:--but since
+I am compelled to speak more plain, which of you is it for whose sake
+you all received such instances of Edella's bounty?--Whoever tells me
+that, even tho' it be the person himself, shall have both pardon
+and liberty.
+
+Impossible it is to express the astonishment every one was in at this
+demand: five of them had not the least notion what it meant; but
+Mullern, Horatio, and that friend to whom he had shewn the letter of
+Mattakesa, had some conjecture of the truth, and presently imagined that
+lady had been the incendiary to kindle the flame of jealousy in the
+prince's breast. The affair, however, was of so nice a nature, that they
+knew not how to vindicate Edella without making her seem more guilty, so
+contented themselves with joining with the others, in protesting they
+knew of no one among them who could boast of receiving any greater
+favours from her than his fellows, but that what she did was instigated
+merely by compassion, since she had never seen, or knew who any of them
+were, till after she had moved the governor in their behalf:--they
+acknowledged she had been so good as to come sometimes to the prison, in
+order to see if those she entrusted with her bounty had been faithful in
+the delivery of it; but that she never made the least difference between
+them, and never had conversation with any one of them that was not in
+the presence of them all. Mullern could not forbear adding to this, that
+he doubted not but the persons who had incensed his highness into
+groundless surmises, were also the same who had hindered her, by some
+false insinuations or other, from continuing the allowance her charity
+allowed them, and for the want of which they had since been near
+perishing.
+
+Prince Menzikoff listened attentively to what each said, and with no
+less earnestness fixed his eyes on the face of every one as they
+spoke.--Finding they had done, he was about giving some orders on their
+account, when the keeper of the prison came hastily into the room, and
+having entreated pardon for the interruption, presented a letter to the
+prince, directed for brigadier Mullern, and brought, he said, just after
+the prisoners were carried out.
+
+Menzikoff commended his zeal in receiving and bringing it to him, as it
+might possibly serve to give some light to the affair he was examining.
+
+Having perused it, he demanded which of them was named Mullern? I am,
+replied the brave Swede; and neither fear, nor am ashamed of any thing
+under that name.
+
+Hear then what is wrote to you by a lady, resumed the prince, with a
+countenance more serene than he had worn since their being brought
+before him, and presently read with a very audible voice these words:
+
+
+"That you have been so long without
+seeing me, my dear Mullern, or hearing
+from me, is not owing to any decrease in my
+affection, but to the necessity of my affairs:--if
+you have any regard for me remaining, I
+conjure you, if ever you are asked any questions
+concerning the frequent visits I have made
+you, to say I was sent by Edella, and that I was
+no more than her emissary in the assistance you
+received from me:--add also, that you have
+reason to believe her charity was excited by
+her liking one of your company:--mention
+who you think fit; but I believe Horatio, as
+the youngest and most handsome, will be the
+most likely to gain credit to what you say.--
+Depend upon it, that if you execute this commission
+artfully, I will recompence it by procuring
+your liberty:--nor need you have any
+scruples concerning it, for no person will be
+prejudiced by it, and the reputation preserved
+of
+
+_Yours,_
+
+MATTAKESA."
+
+
+I suppose, said the prince, as soon as he had done reading, turning to
+Horatio, you are the person mentioned in the letter? Tho' I neither
+desire nor deserve the epithets given me there my lord, replied he, yet
+I will not deny but I am called Horatio.
+
+Well, resumed the prince with a half smile, I am so well pleased with
+the conviction this letter has given me, that I shall retain no
+resentment against the malicious author of it.
+
+He then ordered Mullern to be taken from the rack, which had never been
+strained; nor had he any intention, as he now assured him, to put him to
+the torture, but only to intimidate him, being resolved to make use of
+every method he could think of for the full discovery of every thing
+relating to the behaviour of his beloved Edella.--The other gentlemen
+had also their fetters taken off, and the prince asked pardon of them
+severally for the injury he had done them; then made them sit down and
+partake of a handsome collation at that table, before which they had so
+lately stood as delinquents at a bar.
+
+The Russians are excessive in their carouses, and prince Menzikoff being
+now in an admirable good humour, made them drink very freely:--to be the
+more obliging to his guests, he began the king of Sweden's health in a
+bumper of brandy, protesting at the same time, that tho' an enemy to his
+master, he loved and venerated the hero: Horatio on this ventured to
+enquire in what condition his majesty was; to which the prince replied,
+that being greatly wounded, he was obliged to leave the field, and, it
+was believed, had took the load toward the dominions of the grand
+signior, some of the Russian troops having pursued him as far as the
+Borysthenes where, by the incredible valour of a few that attended him,
+they had been beat back.
+
+The Swedish officers knew it must be bad indeed when their king was
+compelled to fly; and this renewed in them a melancholy, which it was
+not in the power of liquor, or the present civilities of the prince to
+dissipate: they also learned that the generals Renchild, Slipenbock,
+Hamilton, Hoorn, Leuenhaup, and Stackelburg, with the prince of
+Wirtemburg, count Piper, and the flower of the whole army, were
+prisoners at Muscow.
+
+The misfortune of these great men would have been very afflicting to
+those who heard it, could any thing have given addition to what they
+knew before.--Prince Menzikoff was sensible of what they felt, and to
+alleviate their grief, assured them that he would take upon him to give
+them all their liberty, without even exacting a promise from them never
+more to draw their swords against the czar, in case the king of Sweden
+should ever be able to take the field again.
+
+So generous a proceeding both merited and received their utmost
+acknowledgments: but he put an end to the serious demonstrations they
+were about to make him of their gratitude, by saying,--I pay you no more
+than I owe you:--I have wronged you:--this is but part of the
+retaliation I ought to make:--besides, added he laughing, Mattakesa
+promised Mullern his freedom; and as she has done me the good office,
+tho' undesignedly, of revealing to me her own treachery, I can do no
+less than assist her in fulfilling, her covenant.
+
+To prove how much he was in earnest, he called his secretary, and
+ordered him to make out their passports with all expedition, that they
+might be ready to depart next morning; after which he made them repose
+themselves in his palace the remainder of the night; which being in a
+manner vastly different from what they had been accustomed to of a long
+time, indeed ever since their quitting Alranstadt, they did not fail to
+do, notwithstanding the discontent of their minds.
+
+Prince Menzikoff, being now convinced of the fidelity of Edella, passed
+into her apartment, where the reconciliation between them took up so
+much time, that it was near noon next day before he appeared: his new
+guests had not quitted their chambers much sooner; but after reproaching
+themselves for having been so tardy, went altogether to take leave of
+the prince, and accept the passports he had been so good to order. As
+they were got ready, he gave them immediately into their hands, and told
+them, they were at liberty to quit Petersburg that moment, if they
+pleased; or if they had any curiosity to take a view of that city, they
+might gratify it, and begin their journey next morning. As it was now so
+late in the day, they accepted his highness's offer, and walked out to
+see a place which had excited so much admiration in the world, since
+from a wild waste, in ten years time, a spacious and most beautiful city
+had arose in the midst of war, and proved the genius of the founder
+greater in civil than in military arts, tho' it must be owned he was
+indefatigable in the study of both.
+
+The officers of the king of Sweden were entertained with the same
+elegance and good humour they had been the night before; and as they
+were now resolved to quit the city extremely early, the prince took
+leave of them that night, and in doing so put a purse of gold into the
+hands of every one to defray the expenses of their travelling. This
+behaviour obliged them to own there was a possibility of sowing the
+seeds of humanity in Muscovy, and that the czar had made some progress
+in influencing those about him with the manners he had himself learned
+in the politer courts.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXII.
+
+_What befel Louisa in the monastery: the stratagem she put in practice
+to get out of it: her travels thro' Italy, and arrival in Paris_.
+
+But while Horatio was thus experiencing the vicissitudes of fortune, his
+beautiful sister suffered little less from the caprice of that fickle
+goddess. Placed as she was, one would have thought she had been secure
+from all the temptations, hurries, and dangers of the world, and that
+nothing but the death or inconstancy of monsieur du Plessis could have
+again involved her in them. These, indeed, were the sole evils she
+trembled at, and which she chiefly prayed might not befal her. Yet as it
+often happens that those disasters which seem most remote are nearest to
+us, so did the disappointments she was ordained to suffer, rise from a
+quarter she had the least reason to apprehend.
+
+The abbess and nuns, with whom she was, being all Italians, she set
+herself to attain to the knowledge of their language, in which she soon
+became a very great proficient, and capable of entertaining them, and
+being entertained by them in the most agreeable manner.--The sweetness
+of her temper, as well as her good sense, rendering her always ambitious
+of acquiring the affection of those she converted with, she had the
+secret to ingratiate herself not only to the youngest nuns, but also to
+the elder and most austere, that the one were never pleased but when in
+her company, and the others propose her as an example of piety and
+sweetness to the rest.
+
+She had a very pretty genius to poetry, and great skill in music, both
+which talents she now exercised in such works as suited the place and
+company she was in.--The hymns and anthems she composed were not only
+the admiration of that convent, but also of several others to whom they
+were shown, and she was spoke of as a prodigy of wit and devotion.
+
+In fine, her behavior rendered her extremely dear to the superior; and
+that affection joined to a spiritual pride, which those sanctified
+devotees are seldom wholly free from, made her very desirous of
+retaining her always in the convent:--she was therefore continually
+preaching up to her the uncertainty of those felicities which are to be
+found in the world, and magnifying that happy serenity which a total
+renunciation from it afforded;--nay, sometimes went so far, as to
+insinuate there was scarce a possibility for any one encumbered with the
+cares, and surrounded with the temptations of a public life, to have
+those dispositions which are requisite to enjoy the blessings of
+futurity.--Ah my dear daughter, would she say frequently to her, how
+much should I rejoice to find in you a desire to forgo all the
+transitory fleeting pleasures of the world, and devote yourself entirely
+to heaven!--what raptures would not your innocent soul partake, when
+wholly devoid of all thought of sensual objects! you would be, even
+while on earth, a companion for angels and blessed spirits, and borne on
+the wings of heavenly contemplation, have your dwelling above, and be
+worshipped as a saint below.
+
+All the old nuns, and some of the young ones, assisted their abbess in
+endeavouring to prevail on Louisa to take the veil; but all that they
+said made no impression on her mind, not but she had more real piety
+than perhaps some of those who made so great a shew of it, but she was
+of a different way of thinking; and tho' she knew the world had its
+temptation, having experienced them in a very great degree, yet she
+was-convinced within herself, that a person of virtuous principles might
+be no less innocent out of a cloyster than in one.--She saw also among
+this sisterhood a great deal of envy to each other, and perceived early
+that the flaming zeal professed among them was in some hypocrisy, and
+enthusiasm in others; so that had she had no prepossession in favour of
+du Plessis, or any engagement with him, the life of a nun was what she
+never should have made choice of.
+
+She kept her sentiments on this occasion entirely to herself however,
+and made no shew of any repugnance to do as they would have her; but
+whenever they became strenuous in their pressures, told them, she
+doubted not but such a life as they described must be very angelic, but
+having already disposed of her vows, it was not in her power to withdraw
+them, nor would heaven accept so violated an offering. This, they told
+her, was only a suggestion of some evil spirit, and that all engagements
+to an earthly object, both might and ought to be dispensed with for a
+divine vocation. The arguments they made use of for this purpose were
+artful enough to have imposed on some minds, but Louisa had too much
+penetration not to see thro' them; and being unwilling to disoblige them
+by shewing that she did so, made use, in her turn, of evasions which the
+circumstances of the case rendered very excusable. But fully persuaded
+in their minds that it was solely her engagements with du Plessis that
+rendered her so refractory to their desires, they resolved to break it
+off, if possible, and to that end now intercepted his letters; two of
+which giving an account that he was very much wounded and unable to
+travel, they renewed their pressures, in order to prevail on her to take
+the habit before he should be in a condition to come to Bolognia.
+
+These sollicitations, however, had no other effect than to embitter the
+satisfaction she would otherwise have enjoyed during her stay among
+them;--the time of which began now to seem tedious, and she impatiently
+longed for the end of the campaign, which she expected would return her
+dear du Plessis to her, and she should be removed from a place where
+dissimulation, a vice she detested, was in a manner necessary. She had
+received several letters from him before the abbess took it in her head
+to stop them, each more endearing than the former; and last had
+flattered her with the hope of seeing him in a very short time.
+
+Days, weeks, and months passed over, after an assurance so pleasing to
+her wishes, without any confirmation of the repeated vows he had made;
+and receiving from him no account of the reasons that delayed him, she
+began to reproach herself for having placed too much confidence in
+him;--the more time elapsed, the more cause she had to doubt his
+sincerity, and believe her misfortune real:--in fine, it was near half a
+year that she languished under a vain expectation of seeing, or at least
+hearing from him.--Sometimes she imagined a new object had deprived her
+of his heart; but when she called to mind the many proofs he had given
+her of the most unparallell'd generosity that ever was she could not
+think that if he even ceased to love her, he could be capable of leaving
+her in so cruel a suspence:--no, said she to herself, he would have let
+me know I had no more to depend on from him:--paper cannot blush, and as
+he is out of the reach of my upbraidings, he would certainly have
+acquainted me with my fate, confessed the inconstancy of his sex, and
+exerted that wit, of which he has sufficient, to have excused his
+change:--I will not therefore injure a man whom I have found so truly
+noble:--death, perhaps, his deprived me of him; the unrelenting sword
+makes no distinction between the worthy and unworthy;--and the brave,
+the virtuous du Plessis, may have fallen a victim in common with the
+most vulgar.
+
+These apprehensions had no sooner gained ground in her imagination, than
+she became the most disconsolate creature in the world. The abbess took
+advantage of her melancholy, as knowing the occasion of it, and began to
+represent, in the strongest terms, the instability of all human
+expectations:--you may easily see, my dear child, said she, that
+monsieur either no longer lives, or ceases to live for you:--young men
+are wavering, every new object attracts their wishes;--they are
+impatient for a time, but soon grow cool;--absence renders them
+forgetful of their vows and promises;--there is no real dependance on
+them;--fly therefore to that divine love which never can deceive
+you;--give yourself up to heaven, and you will soon be enabled to
+despise the fickle hopes of earth.
+
+Instead of saying any thing to comfort her, in this manner was she
+continually persecuted; and tho' it is impossible for any one to have
+less inclination to a monastic life than she had, yet the depression of
+her spirits, the firm belief she now should never see du Plessis more,
+the misfortune of her circumstances, joined to the artifices they made
+use of, and the repeated offers of accepting her without the usual sum
+paid on such occasions, might possibly at last have prevailed on
+her.--She was half convinced in her mind that it was the only asylum
+left to shield her from the wants and insults of the world; and the more
+she reflected on the changes, the perplexities, and vexation, of
+different kinds, the few years she yet had lived had presented her with,
+the more reason she found to acquiesce with the persuasions of the
+abbess. But heaven would not suffer the deceit practised on her to be
+crowned with success, and discovered it to her timely enough to prevent
+her from giving too much way to that despair, which alone could have
+prevailed with her to yield to their importunities.
+
+There was among the sisterhood a young lady called donna Leonora, who
+being one of many daughters of a family, more eminent for birth than
+riches, was compelled, as too many are, to become a nun, in order to
+prevent her marrying beneath her father's dignity. She had taken a great
+liking to Louisa from the moment she came into the convent, and a
+farther acquaintance ripened it into a sincere friendship. Tho' secluded
+from the world, the austere air of a monastery had no effect upon her,
+she still retained her former vivacity; and it was only in the
+conversations these two had toge whenever they could separate from the
+others, that Louisa found any cordial to revive her now almost
+sinking spirits.
+
+One day as she was ruminating on her melancholy affairs, this young nun
+came hastily into her chamber, and with a countenance that, before she
+spoke, denoted she had something very extraordinary to acquaint her
+with,--dear sister, cried she, I bring you the most surprising news, but
+such as will be my ruin if you take the least notice of receiving it
+from me; and perhaps your own, if you seem to be acquainted with it
+at all.
+
+It is not to be doubted but Louisa gave her all the assurances she could
+desire of an inviolable secrecy; after which, know then, resumed this
+sweet-condition'd lady, that your lover, monsieur du Plessis, is not
+only living, but as faithful as your soul can wish, or as you once
+believed:--the cruelty of the abbess, and some of the sisterhood in the
+plot with her, have concealed the letters he has sent to you, in order
+to persuade you to become a nun:--I tremble to think of their hypocrisy
+and deceit:--but what, continued she, is not to be expected from bigotry
+and enthusiasm!--To increase the number of devotees they scruple
+nothing, and vainly imagine the means is sanctified by the end.
+
+Little is it in the power of words to express the astonishment Louisa
+was in to hear her speak in this manner; but as she had no room to doubt
+her sincerity, only asked by what means she had attained the knowledge
+of what the persons concerned, no doubt, intended to keep as much a
+secret as possible; on which the other satisfied her curiosity in
+these terms:
+
+To confess the truth to you, said she, I stole this afternoon into the
+chapel, in order to read a little book brought me the other day by one
+of my friends; as it treated on a subject not allowable in a convent, I
+thought that the most proper place to entertain myself with it; and was
+sitting down in one of the confessionals, when hearing the little door
+open from the gallery, I saw the abbess and sister Clara, who, you know,
+is her favourite and confidant, come in together, and as soon as they
+were entered, shut the door after them. I cannot say I had any curiosity
+to hear their discourse; but fearing to be suspected by them in my
+amusement, and not knowing what excuse to make for being there, if I
+were seen, I slid down, and lay close at the bottom of the confessional.
+They happened to place themselves very near me; and the abbess taking a
+letter out of her pocket, bad Clara read it, and tell her the substance
+of it as well as she could. I found it was in French, by some words
+which she was obliged to repeat over and over, before, not perfectly
+understanding the language, she could be able to find a proper
+interpretation of. The abbess, who has a little smattering of it
+herself, sometimes helped her out, and between them both I soon found it
+came from monsieur du Plessis, and contained the most tender and
+compassionate complaint of your unkindness in not answering his
+letter;--that the symptoms he had of approaching death were not half so
+severe to him as your refusing him a consolation he stood for much in
+need of;--that if you found him unworthy of your love, he was certainly
+so of your compassion; and concluded with the most earnest entreaty, you
+would suffer him to continue no longer in a suspence more cruel than a
+thousand deaths could be.
+
+Oh heaven! cried Louisa, bursting into tears, how ungrateful must he
+think me, and how can I return, as it deserves, so unexampled a
+constancy, after such seeming proofs of my infidelity!--. Cruel, cruel,
+treacherous abbess! pursued she; Is this the fruits of all your boasted
+sanctity!--This the return to the confidence the generous du Plessis
+reposed in you!--This your love and friendship to me!--Does heaven, to
+increase the number of its votaries, require you to be false,
+perfidious, and injurious to the world!
+
+She was proceeding in giving vent to the anguish of her soul in
+exclamations such as these; but Leonora begged she would moderate her
+grief, and for her sake, as much as possible, conceal the reasons she
+had for resentment. Louisa again promised she would do her utmost to
+keep them from thinking she even suspected they had played her
+false;--then cried, But tell me, my dear Leonora, were they not a little
+moved at the tender melancholy which, I perceive, ran thro' this
+epistle? Alas! my dear, replied the other, they have long since forgot
+those soft emotions which make us simpathize in the woes of
+love:--inflexible by the rigid rules of this place, and more by their
+own age, they rather looked with horror than pity on a tender
+inclination:--they had a long conversation together, the result of which
+was to spare nothing that might either persuade, or if that failed,
+compel you to take the order.
+
+It is not in their power to do the latter, interrupted Louisa; and this
+discovery of their baseness, more than ever, confirms me in the
+resolution never to consent.
+
+You know not what is in their power, said Leonora; they may make
+pretences for confining you here, which, as they are under no
+jurisdiction but the church, the church will allow justifiable:--indeed,
+Louisa, continued she, I should be loth to see you have recourse to
+force to get out of their hands which would only occasion you ill
+treatment:--to whom, alas, can you complain!--you are a stranger in this
+country, without any one friend to espouse your cause:--were even Du
+Plessis here in person, I know not, as they have taken it into their
+heads to keep you here, if all he could urge, either to the pope or
+confessory, would have any weight to oblige them to relinquish you. A
+convent is the securest prison in the world; and whenever any one comes
+into it, who by any particular endowment promises to be an ornament to
+the order, cannot, without great difficulty, disentangle themselves from
+the snares laid for them.--It is for this reason I have feared for you
+ever since your entrance; for tho' I should rejoice in so agreeable a
+companion, I know too well the miseries of an enforced attachment to
+wish you to be partaker of it.
+
+Louisa found too much reason in what she said, to doubt the misery of
+her condition;--she knew the great power of the church in all these
+countries where the roman-catholic religion is established, more
+especially in those places under the papal jurisdiction, and saw no way
+to avoid what was now more terrible to her than ever. Those reflections
+threw her into such agonies, that Leonora had much ado to keep her from
+falling into fits:--she conjured her again and again, never to betray
+what she had entrusted her with; assuring her, that if it were so much
+as guessed at, she should be exposed to the worst treatment, and
+punished as an enemy to the order of which she was a member. Louisa as
+often assured her that nothing should either tempt or provoke her to
+abuse that generous friendship she had testified for her; but as she was
+not able to command her countenance, tho' she could her words, she
+resolved to pretend herself indisposed and keep her bed, that she might
+be the less observed, or the change in her should seem rather the
+effects of ill health than any secret discontent.
+
+It was no sooner mentioned in the convent that she was out of order,
+than the abbess herself, as well as the whole sisterhood, came to her
+chamber, and shewed the greatest concern: the tender care they took of
+her would have made her think herself infinitely obliged to them, and
+perhaps gone a great way in engaging her continuance among them, had she
+not been apprized of their falshood in a point so little to be forgiven.
+
+So great an enemy was she to all deceit herself, that it was difficult
+for her to return the civilities they treated her with, as they might
+seem to deserve; but whatever omissions she was guilty of in this
+particular, were imputed to her disposition; and the whole convent
+continued to be extremely assiduous to recover her.
+
+During the time of her feigned illness, her thoughts were always
+employed on the means of getting away. Whenever Leonora and she were
+together, a hundred contrivances were formed, which seemed equally alike
+impracticable; but at length they hit upon one which had a promising
+aspect and Louisa, after some scruples, resolved to make trial of.
+It was this:
+
+As hypocrisy was made use of to detain her, hypocrisy was the only
+method by which she could hope to get her liberty:--pretending,
+therefore, to be all at once restored to her former health, she sent to
+entreat the abbess, and some other of the most zealous of the sisterhood
+to come into her chamber, where, as soon as they entered, they found her
+on her knees before the picture of the virgin, and seeming in an extacy
+of devotion: Yes, holy virgin, cried she, as if too much taken up to see
+who entered, I will obey your commands;--I will devote myself entirely
+to thee;--I will follow where thou callest me: thou, who hast restored
+me, shalt have the first fruits of my strength:--and oh that Lorretto
+were at a greater distance,--to the utmost extent of land and sea would
+I go to seek thee!--In uttering these ejaculations she prostrated
+herself on the floor;--then rising again, as transported in a manner out
+of herself,--I come,--I come, cried she;--still do I hear thy
+heavenly voice!
+
+In this fit of enthusiasm did she remain for above half an hour, and so
+well acted her part, that the abbess, who would not offer to interrupt
+her, believed it real, and was in little less agitation of spirit than
+Louisa pretended to be.
+
+At length seeming; to come to herself, she turned towards the company,
+as tho' she but just then discovered they were in the room; Oh, madam,
+said she to the abbess, how highly favoured have I been this blessed
+night!--The virgin has herself appeared to me, whether in a vision, or
+to my waking eyes, I cannot well determine; but sure I have been in such
+extacies, have felt such divine raptures, as no words can express!
+
+Oh my dear daughter! cried the abbess, how my soul kindles to behold
+this change in thee!--but tell me what said the holy virgin!
+
+She bad me wait on her at Lorretto, answered she, and gave me hopes of
+doing something wonderful in my favour:--I will therefore, with your
+permission, undertake a pilgrimage and at her shrine expiate the
+offences of my past life in tears of true contrition, and then return a
+pure and fearless partaker of the happiness you enjoy in an
+uninterrupted course of devotion:--oh! exclaimed she, exalting her
+voice, how do I detest and despise the vanities and follies of the
+world!--how hate myself for having been too much attached to them, and
+so long been cold and negligent of my only happiness!
+
+The abbess, and, after her, all the nuns that were present, embraced
+Louisa,--praised to the skies this miraculous conversion, as they termed
+it, and spared nothing to confirm the pious resolution she had taken.
+
+In fine, they consented to her pilgrimage with a satisfaction equal to
+what she felt in undertaking it,--they not in the least doubting but she
+would return to them as soon as she had fulfilled her devotions, and
+flattering themselves that the report of this miracle would do the
+greatest honour to their convent that it could possibly receive; and
+she, delighted with the thoughts of being at liberty to enquire after
+her dear du Plessis, and being freed from a dissimulation so irksome to
+her nature.
+
+Her pilgrim's habit, and a great crucifix to carry between her hands,
+with another at her girdle, and all the formalities of that garb being
+prepared, she set forward with the prayers and benedictions of the whole
+sisterhood, who told her, that they should be impatient till they saw
+her again, and expected great things from her at her return, which, in
+reality, they all did, except Leonora, who laughed heartily at the
+deception she had put upon them, and whispered in her ear as she gave
+her the last embrace, that she wished her a happy meeting with that
+saint she went in search of.
+
+To prevent all suspicion of her intention she left her cloaths, and
+every thing she had brought into the convent, under the care of the
+abbess, saying, that, at her return, she would have them disposed of,
+and the money given to the poor: but, unknown to any one except Leonora,
+she quilted some pieces of gold and valuable trinkets into her
+undergarment, as not doubting but she should have occasion for much more
+than, in effect, she was mistress of.
+
+When on her journey, the pleasure she felt at seeing herself out of the
+walls of the monastery, was very much abated by the uncertainty how she
+should proceed, or where direct her way: and indeed, let any one figure
+to themselves the condition she was in, and they will rather wonder she
+had courage to go on, than that she was sometimes daunted even to
+despair.--A young creature of little more than eighteen years
+old,--wholly unacquainted with fatigue,--delicate in her
+frame,--wandering alone on foot in the midst of a strange
+country,--ignorant of the road, or had she been acquainted with it, at a
+loss where to go to get any intelligence of what she sought, and even
+doubtful if the person she ran such risques to hear of, yet were in the
+world or not. The letter Leonora had informed her of, gave no account,
+at least that she could learn, either where he was, or whether there
+were any hopes of his recovery from that illness it mentioned; she had
+therefore every thing to dread, and little, very little to hope: yet did
+she not repent her having quitted the convent; and the desire of getting
+still farther from it, made her prosecute her journey with greater
+strength and vigour than could have been expected: her pilgrim's habit
+was not only a defence against any insults from persons she met on the
+road, but also attracted the respect, and engaged the civilities of
+every one.--As that country abounds with religious houses, she was not
+only lodged and fed without any expence, but received a piece of money
+at each of them she went to, so that her little stock, instead of being
+diminished, was considerably increased when she came to Lorretto, for
+thither, not to be false in every thing, she went; and being truly sorry
+for the hypocrisy which a sad necessity alone could have made her guilty
+of, paid her devotion with a sincere heart, tho' free from that
+enthusiasm and bigotry which is too much practised in convents.
+
+From Lorretto she crossed the country to Florence, every one being ready
+to direct a holy pilgrim on her way, and assist her with all things
+necessary. As she went very easy journeys, never exceeding four or five
+miles a day, she easily supported the fatigue; and had she been certain
+at last of seeing du Plessis, it would have been rather a pleasure to
+her; but her mind suffered much more than her body during this
+pilgrimage, which she continued in the same manner she had begun till
+she reached Leghorn, where a ship lying at anchor, and expecting to sail
+in a few days for Marseilles, she agreed to give a small matter for her
+passage, the sea-faring-men not paying altogether so much regard to her
+habit, as the land ones had done.
+
+No ill accident intervening, the vessel came safely into her desired
+port, and Louisa now found herself in the native country of the only
+person who engrossed her thoughts: as she had heard him say he was of
+Paris, she supposed that the most likely place to hear news of him, but
+was in some debate within herself whether she should continue to wear
+her pilgrim's habit, or provide herself with other cloaths at
+Marseilles. She was weary of this mendicant way of travelling, and could
+have been glad to have exchanged it for one more agreeable to the manner
+in which she had been accustomed; but then, when she considered how
+great a protection the appearance she made, had been from all those
+insults, to which a person of her sex and age must otherwise infallibly
+have been exposed in travelling alone, she resolved not to throw it off
+till she came to the place where she intended to take up her abode, at
+least for some time. Young as she was, she had well weighed what course
+to take in case du Plessis should either be dead, or, by some accident,
+removed where she could hear nothing more of him; and all countries and
+parts being now equal to her, as she must then be reduced once more to
+get her bread by her labour, she doubted not but to find encouragement
+for her industry as well in Paris as elsewhere.
+
+With this resolution, therefore, after laying one night at Marseilles,
+she proceeded on her way in the same fashion as she had done ever since
+she left Bolognia, and in about six weeks got safely to that great and
+opulent city, where she took up her lodging at a hotel, extremely
+fatigued, as it is easy to believe, having never even for one day ceased
+walking, but while she was on board the ship which brought her to
+Marseilles, for the space of eight months; a thing almost incredible,
+and what perhaps no woman, but herself, would have had courage to
+undertake, or resolution to perform, but was, in her circumstances,
+infinitely the most safe and expedient that prudence could suggest.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXIII.
+
+_Shews by what means Louisa came to the knowledge of her parents, with
+other occurrences_.
+
+The first thing she did on her arrival, was to send for proper persons
+to equip her in a manner that she might once more appear herself,
+resolving that till she could do so, not to be seen in the streets.
+
+While these things were preparing, she sent a person, whom the people of
+the house recommended to her, to the palace of the prince of Conti, not
+doubting but that some of the gentlemen belonging to his highness might
+give some intelligence where monsieur du Plessis was to be found; but
+the messenger returned without any other information, than that they
+knew him very well, but could give no directions in what part he was at
+present, he not having been seen in Paris for a long time.
+
+It is hard to say whether she most rejoiced or grieved at this account:
+she imagined that had he been dead they would not have been ignorant of
+it, therefore concluded him living to her infinite satisfaction; but
+then his absenting himself from the capital of the kingdom, and from the
+presence of a prince who had so much loved him, filled her with an
+adequate disquiet, as believing some very ill accident must have been
+the occasion:--she dispatched the same person afterwards to all the
+public places that she heard gentlemen frequented, but met not with the
+least success in her enquiries. It would prolong this narrative to a
+tedious length, should I attempt any description of what she felt in
+this situation, or the reflections she made on the odd circumstances of
+her life:--the greatness of her spirit, and the most perfect resignation
+to the divine will, however, made her support even this last and
+severest trial with fortitude and patience; and as soon as she had put
+herself into a convenient neat garb, but plain, befitting her condition,
+she went out with a design to take a private lodging, where she might
+live more cheaply than she could at the hotel, till providence should
+throw some person in the way that might recommend her either to work, or
+to teach young ladies music.
+
+She was wandering thro' several of the streets of Paris, without being
+able, as yet, to find such a chamber as she wanted, when a great shower
+of rain happening to fall, she stood up under the porch of a large house
+for shelter till it should be over, which it was not for a considerable
+time; and the street being very dirty, she returned to the hotel,
+intending to renew her search the next day: she had not been come in
+above half an hour, before the man of the house told her that a servant,
+in a very rich livery, who, he perceived, had followed her, and had
+asked many questions concerning her, was now returned, and desired to
+speak with her.
+
+As du Plessis was ever in her thoughts, a sudden rush of joy overflowed
+her heart, which seemed to her the presage of seeing him, tho' how he
+should imagine she was in Paris was a mystery:--but she gave herself not
+much time for reflection, before she ordered the man to be admitted.
+
+The manner of his approaching her was very respectful; but the message
+he had to deliver seemed of a contrary nature.--After having asked if
+her name was Louisa, and she answering that it was, I come, madam, said
+he, from a gentleman who saw you stand just now at the gate of a house
+in the Fauxbourg St. Germains, he commands me to tell you, that he has
+something of moment to acquaint you with, and desires you will permit me
+to call a chair, and attend you to his house, where he is impatient to
+receive you.
+
+What, indeed, could Louisa think of a person who should send for her in
+this manner?--all the late transport she was in, was immediately
+converted into disdain and vexation at being taken, as she had all the
+reason in the world to suppose, for one of those common creatures who
+prostitute their charms for bread.--
+
+Tell your master, said she, that by whatever accident he has learned my
+name, he is wholly ignorant of the character of the person he has sent
+you to:--that I am an entire stranger at Paris, and he must have
+mistaken me for some other, who, perhaps, I may have the misfortune to
+resemble, and may be also called as I am;--at least I am willing to
+think so, as the only excuse can be made for his offering this
+insult:--but go, continued she, with that pride which is natural to
+affronted virtue;--go, and convince him of his error;--and let me hear
+no more of it.
+
+It was in vain he assured her that his master was a person of the
+highest honour, and that he was not unknown to her. All he could say had
+not the least effect unless to enflame her more; when, after asking his
+name, the fellow told her he was forbid to reveal it, but that he was
+confident she would not deny having been acquainted with him when once
+she saw him.
+
+I shall neither own the one, cried she, nor consent to the other; then
+bid him a second time be gone, with an air which shewed she was not to
+be prevailed upon to listen to his arguments.
+
+This man had no sooner left her than she fell into a deep study, from
+which a sudden thought made her immediately start:--the count de
+Bellfleur came into her head; and she was certain it could be no other
+than that cruel persecutor of her virtue, that her ill fate had once
+more thrown in her way.--As she knew very well, by what he had done,
+that he was of a disposition to scruple nothing for the attainment of
+his wishes, she trembled for the consequences of his discovering where
+she was.--The only way she could think on to avoid the dangers she might
+be exposed to on his account, was to draw up a petition to the prince of
+Conti, acquainting him that she was the person who was near suffering so
+much from the ill designs he had on her at Padua, when so generously
+referred by monsieur du Plessis, and to entreat his highness's
+protection against any attempts he might be safe enough to make.
+
+She was just sitting down, in order to form a remonstrance of this kind,
+when a chariot and six stopping at the door, she was informed the
+gentleman who had sent to her was come in person, and that they knew it
+was the same by the livery.--Louisa run hastily to the window and saw a
+person alight, whom, by the bulk and stature, she knew could not be the
+count she so much dreaded, this having much the advantage of the other
+in both. Somewhat reassured by this sight, she ordered the master of the
+hotel to desire him to walk into a parlour, and let him know she would
+attend him there.
+
+As she saw not the face of this visitor, she could not be certain
+whether it were not some of those she had been acquainted with at
+Venice, who having, by accident, seen her at Paris, might, according to
+the freedom of the French nation, take the liberty of visiting her;--but
+whoever it were, or on what score soever brought, she thought it best to
+receive him in a place where, in case of any ill usage, she might
+readily have assistance.
+
+The master of the hotel perceiving her scruples, readily did as he was
+ordered, and Louisa having desired that he, or some of his people, would
+be within call, went down to receive this unknown gent, tho' not without
+emotions, which at that moment she knew not how to account for.
+
+But soon after she was seized with infinitely greater, when, entering
+the parlour, she found it was no other than Dorilaus who had given her
+this anxiety.--Surprize at the sight of a person whom, of all the world,
+she could least have expected in that place, made her at first start
+back; and conscious shame for having, as she thought, so ill rewarded
+his goodness, mixed with a certain awe which she had for no other person
+but himself, occasioned such a trembling, as rendered her unable either
+to retire or move forward to salute him, as she otherwise would
+have done.
+
+He saw the confusion she was in, and willing to give it an immediate
+relief, ran to her, and taking her in his arms,--my dear, dear child,
+said he, am I so happy to see thee once more!--Oh! sir, returned she
+disengaging herself from his embrace, and falling at his feet!--How can
+I look upon you after having flown from your protection, and given you
+such cause to think me the most ungrateful creature in the world!
+
+It was heaven, answered he, that inspired you with that abhorrence of my
+offers, which, had you accepted, we must both have been eternally
+undone!--You are my daughter, Louisa! pursued he, my own natural
+daughter!--Rise then, and take a father's blessing.
+
+All that can be said of astonishment would be far short of what she felt
+at these words:--the happiness seemed so great she could not think it
+real, tho' uttered from mouth she knew unaccustomed to deceit:--a
+hundred times, without giving him leave to satisfy her doubts, did she
+cry out, My father!--my father!--my real father!--How can it be!--Is
+there a possibility that Louisa owes her being to Dorilaus!
+
+Yes, my Louisa, answered he, and flatter myself, by what I have observed
+of your disposition, you have done nothing, since our parting, that
+might prevent my glorying in being the parent of such a child.
+
+The hurry of spirit she was in, prevented her from taking notice of
+these last words, or at least from making any answer to them, and she
+still continued crying out,--Dorilaus, my father!--Good heaven! may I
+believe I am so blessed?--Who then is my mother!--Wherefore have I been
+so long ignorant of what I was!--And how is the joyful secret at
+last revealed!
+
+All these things you shall be fully informed of, answered he; in the
+mean time be satisfied I do not deceive you, and am indeed your father:
+transported to find my long lost child, whom I myself knew not was so
+till I believed her gone for ever;--a thousand times I have wished both
+you and Horatio were my children, but little suspected you were so, till
+after his too eager ambition deprived me of him, and my mistaken love
+drove you to seek a refuge among strangers.
+
+Tears of joy and tenderness now bedewed the faces of both father and
+daughter:--silence for some moments succeeded the late acclamations; but
+Dorilaus at length finding her fully convinced she was as happy as he
+said she was, and entirely freed from all those apprehensions which had
+occasioned her flying from him, told her he was settled in Paris; that
+he lived just opposite to the house where she had stood up on account of
+the shower, and happening to be at one of his windows immediately knew
+her; that he sent a servant after her, who had enquired how long she had
+been arrived, and in what manner she came; that he had sent for her with
+no other intent then to make trial how she would resent it, and was
+transported to find her answer such as he hoped and had expected from
+her:--he added, that he had all the anxiety of a father to hear by what
+means she had been supported, and the motive which induced her to travel
+in the habit of a pilgrim, as the matter of the hotel had informed his
+servant; but that he would defer his satisfaction till she should be in
+a place more becoming his daughter.
+
+On concluding these words he called for the master of the hotel, and
+having defrayed what little expences she had been at since her coming
+there, took her by the hand and led her to his chariot, which soon
+brought them to a magnificent, house, and furnished in a manner
+answerable to the birth and fortune of the owner.
+
+Louisa had all this time seemed like one in a dream:--she had ever loved
+Dorilaus with a filial affection; and to find herself really his
+daughter, to be snatched at once from all those cares which attend
+penury, when accompanied with virtue, and an abhorrence of entering into
+measures inconsistent with the strictest honour, to be relieved from
+every want, and in a station which commanded respect and homage, was
+such a surcharge of felicity, that she was less able to support than all
+the fatigues she had gone thro'--Surprize and joy made her appear more
+dull and stupid than she had ever been in her whole life before; and
+Dorilaus was obliged to repeat all he had said over and over again, to
+bring her into her usual composedness, and enable her to give him the
+satisfaction he required.
+
+But as soon as she had, by degrees, recollected herself, she modestly
+related all that had happened to her from the time she left him;--the
+methods by which she endeavoured to earn her bread,--the insults she was
+exposed to at mrs. C--l--ge's;--the way she came acquainted with
+Melanthe;--the kindness shown her by that lady;--their travels
+together;--the base stratagem made use of by count de Bellfleur to ruin
+her with that lady--the honourable position monsieur du Plessis had
+professed for her;--the seasonable assistance he had given her, in that
+iminent danger she was in from the count's unlawful designs upon
+her;--his placing her afterwards in the monastry,--the treachery of the
+abbess;--the artifice she had been obliged to make use of to get out of
+the nunnery;--her pilgrimage;--in fine, concealed no part of her
+adventures, only that which related to the passion she had for du
+Plessis, which she endeavoured, as much as she could, to disguise, under
+the names of gratitude for the obligations he had conferred upon her,
+and admiration of his virtue, so different from what she had found in
+others who had addressed her.
+
+Dorilaus, however, easily perceived the tenderness with which she was
+agitated on the account of that young gentleman, but he would not excite
+her blushes by taking any notice of it, especially as he found nothing
+to condemn in it, and had observed, throughout the course of her whole
+narrative, she had behaved on other occasions with a discretion far
+above her years, he was far from wronging her, by suspecting she had
+swerved from it in this.
+
+But when he heard the vast journey she had come on foot, he was in the
+utmost amazement at her fortitude, and told her he was resolved to keep
+her pilgrim's habit as a relique, to preserve to after-ages the memory
+of an adventure, which had really something more marvellous in it than
+many set down as miracles.
+
+And now having fully gratified his own curiosity in all he wanted to be
+informed of, he thought proper to case the impatience she was in to know
+the history of her birth, and on what occasion it had been so long
+concealed, which he did in these or the like words:
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXIV.
+
+_The history of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other circumstances very
+important to Louisa_.
+
+You know, said he, that I am descended of one of the most illustrious
+families in England, tho', by some imprudencies on the one side, and
+injustice on the other, my claim was set aside, and I deprived of that
+title which my ancestors for a long succession of years had enjoyed, so
+that the estate I am in possession of, was derived to me in right of my
+mother, who was an heiress. It is indeed sufficient to have given me a
+pretence to any lady I should have made choice on, and to provide for
+what children I might have had by her: but the pride of blood being not
+abated in me by being cut off from my birthright, inspired me with an
+unconquerable aversion to marriage, since I could not bequeath to my
+posterity that dignity I ought to have enjoyed myself:--I resolved
+therefore to live single, and that the misfortune of my family should
+dye with myself.
+
+In my younger years I went to travel, as well for improvement, as to
+alleviate that discontent which was occasioned by the sight of another
+in possession of what I thought was my due.--Having made the tour of
+Europe, I took France again in my way home:--the gallantry and good
+breeding of these people very much attached me to them; but what chiefly
+engaged my continuance here much longer than I had done in any other
+part, was an acquaintance I had made with a lady called Matilda: she was
+of a very good family in England, was sent to a monastry merely for the
+sake of well-grounding her in a religion, the free exercise of which is
+not allowed at home, and to seclude her from settling her affections on
+any other than the person she was destined to by the will of her
+parents, and to whom she had been contracted in her infancy:--she was
+extremely young, and beautiful as an angel; and the knowledge she was
+pre-engaged, could not hinder me from loving her, any more than the
+declarations I made in her hearing against marriage, could the grateful
+returns she was pleased to make me:--in fine, the mutual inclination we
+had for each other, as it rendered us deaf to all suggestions but that
+of gratifying it, so it also inspired us with ingenuity to surmount all
+the difficulties that were between our wishes and the end of them.--Tho'
+a pensioner in a monastry, and very closely observed, by the help of a
+confidant she frequently got out, and many nights we passed
+together;--till some business relating to my estate at length calling me
+away, we were obliged to part, which we could not do without testifying
+a great deal of concern on both sides:--mine was truly sincere at that
+time, and I have reason to believe her's was no less so; but absence
+easily wears out the impressions of youth: as I never expected to see
+her any more, I endeavoured not to preserve a remembrance which would
+only have given me disquiet, and, to confess the truth, soon forgot both
+the pleasure and the pain I had experienced in this, as well as some
+other little sallies of my unthinking youth.
+
+Many years passed over without my ever hearing any thing of her; and it
+was some months after I received your letter from Aix-la-Chappelle, that
+the post brought me one from Ireland: having no correspondence in that
+country, I was a little surprized, but much more when I opened it and
+found it contained these words:
+
+_To_ DORILAUS.
+
+SIR,
+
+
+"This comes to make a request, which I
+know not if the acquaintance we had
+together in the early part of both our lives,
+would be sufficient to apologize for the trouble
+you must take in complying with it:--permit
+me therefore to acquaint you, that I have long
+laboured under an indisposition which my physicians
+assure me is incurable, and under which
+I must inevitably sink in a short time; but
+whatever they say, I know it is impossible
+for me to leave the world without imparting
+to you a secret wholly improper to be entrusted
+in a letter, but is of the utmost importance
+to those concerned in it, of whom yourself
+is the principal:--be assured it regards
+your honour, your conscience, your justice, as
+well as the eternal peace of her who conjures
+you, with the utmost earnestness, to come immediately
+on the receipt of this to the castle of
+M----e, in the north of Ireland, where, if
+you arrive time enough, you will be surprized,
+tho' I flatter myself not disagreeably so, with
+the unravelling a most mysterious Event.
+
+_Yours, once known by the name of_ MATILDA,
+
+_now_
+
+M----E."
+
+
+I will not repeat to you, my dear Louisa, continued Dorilaus, the
+strange perplexity of ideas that run thro' my mind after having read
+this letter:--I was very far from guessing at the real motive of this
+invitation; which, however, as I once had a regard for that lady, I soon
+determined to obey; and having left the care of my house to a relation
+of mine by the mother's side, I went directly for Ireland; but when I
+came there, was a little embarrassed in my mind what excuse I should
+make to her husband for my visit.--Before I ventured to the castle, I
+made a thorough enquiry after the character of this young lady, and in
+what manner she lived with her lord. Never did I hear a person more
+universally spoke well of:--the poor adored her charity, affability, and
+condescending sweetness of disposition:--the rich admired her wit, her
+virtue, and good breeding:--her beauty, tho' allowed inferior to few of
+her sex, was the least qualification that seemed deserving praise:--to
+add to all this, they told me she was a pattern of conjugal affection,
+and the best of mothers to a numerous race of Children;--that her lord
+had all the value he ought to have for so amiable a wife, and that no
+wedded pair ever lived together in greater harmony; and it was with the
+utmost concern, whoever I spoke to on this affair concluded what they
+related of her with saying, that so excellent an example of all that was
+valuable in womankind would shortly be taken from them;--that she had
+long, with an unexampled patience, lingered under a severe illness which
+every day threatened dissolution.
+
+These accounts made me hesitate no farther:--I went boldly to the
+castle, asked to speak with the lord M----e, who received me with a
+politeness befitting his quality: I told him that my curiosity of seeing
+foreign countries had brought me to Ireland, and being in my tour thro'
+those parts, I took the liberty of calling at his seat, having formerly
+had the honour of being known to his lady when at her father's house,
+and whom I now heard, to my great concern, was indisposed, otherwise
+have been glad to pay my respects to her. The nobleman answered, with
+tears in his eyes, that she was indeed in a condition such as give no
+hope of her recovery, but that she sometimes saw company, tho' obliged
+to receive them in bed, having lost the use of her limbs, and would
+perhaps be glad of the visit of a person she had known so long.
+
+On this I told him my name, which he immediately sent in; and her woman
+not long after came from her to let me know she would admit me. My lord
+went in with me; and to countenance what I said, I accosted her with the
+freedom of a person who had been acquainted when children, spoke of her
+father as of a gentleman who had favoured me with his good-will, tho',
+in reality, I had never seen him in my life, but remembered well enough
+what she had mentioned to me concerning him, and some others of her
+family, to talk as if I had been intimate among them. I could perceive
+she was very well pleased with the method I had taken of introducing
+myself; and, to prevent any suspicion that I had any other business with
+her than to pay my compliments, made my visit very short that day, not
+doubting but she would of herself contrive some means of entertaining me
+without witnesses, as she easily found her lord had desired I would make
+the castle my home while I stayed in that part of the country.
+
+I was not deceived; the next morning having been told her lord was
+engaged with his steward, she sent for me, and making some pretence for
+getting rid of her woman, she plucked a paper from under her pillow, and
+putting it into my hand,--in that, said, you will find the secret I
+mentioned in my letter;--suspect not the veracity of it, I conjure you,
+nor love the unfortunate Horatio and Louisa less for their being mine.
+
+I cannot express the confusion I was in, continued Dorilaus, at her
+mentioning you and your brother, but I had no opportunity of asking any
+questions:--her woman that instant returned, after which I stayed but a
+short time, being impatient to examine the contents, which, as near as I
+can remember, were to this purpose:
+
+
+"You were scarce out of France before I
+discovered our amour had produced such
+consequences as, had my too fond passion given
+me leave to think of, I never should have hazarded:--I
+will not repeat the distraction I
+was in;--you may easily judge of it:--I
+communicated the misfortune to my nurse,
+who you know I told you went from England
+with me, and has often brought you messages
+from the convent:--the faithful creature did
+her utmost to console me for an evil which was
+without a remedy:--to complete my confusion,
+my father commanded me home; my lord
+M----e was returned from his travels:--we
+were both of an age to marry; and it
+was resolved, by our parents, no longer to
+defer the completion of an affair long before
+agreed upon.--I was ready to lay violent hands
+on myself, since there seemed no way to conceal
+my shame; but my good nurse having set
+all her wits to work for me, found out an expedient
+which served me, when I could think
+of nothing for myself.--She bid me be of
+comfort; that she thought being sent for home
+was the luckiest thing that could have happened,
+since nothing could be so bad as to have my
+pregnancy discovered in the convent, as it
+infallibly must have been had I stayed a very little
+time longer: she also assured me she would
+contrive it so, as to keep the thing a secret
+from all the world.--I found afterwards she
+did not deceive me by vain promises.--We
+left Paris, according to my father's order, and
+came by easy journeys, befitting my condition,
+to Calais, and embarked on board the packet for
+Dover; but then, instead of taking coach for London,
+hired a chariot, and went cross the country
+to a little village, where a kinswoman of my
+nurse's lived.--With these people I remained
+till Horatio and Louisa came into the world:--I
+could have had them nursed at that place, but
+I feared some discovery thro' the miscarriage of
+letters, which often happens, and which could
+not have been avoided being sent on such occasions;--so
+we contrived together that my
+good confident and adviser should carry them
+to your house, and commit the care of them
+to you, who, equal with myself, had a right to
+it:--she found means, by bribing a man that
+worked under your gardener, to convey them
+where I afterwards heard you found and received
+them as I could wish, and becoming the
+generosity of your nature.--I then took coach
+for London, pretending, at my arrival, that I
+had been delayed by sickness, and to excuse my
+nurse's absence, said she had caught the fever
+of me;--so no farther enquiry was made, and
+I soon after was married to a man whose worth
+is well deserving of a better wife, tho' I have
+endeavoured to attone for my unknown transgression
+by every act of duty in my power:--nurse
+stayed long enough in your part of the
+world to be able to bring me an account how
+the children were disposed of.--That I never
+gave you an account they were your own, was
+occasioned by two reasons, first, the danger of
+entrusting such a thing by the post, my nurse
+soon after dying; and secondly, because, as I
+was a wife, I thought it unbecoming of me to
+remind you of a passage I was willing to forget
+myself.--A long sickness has put other thoughts
+into my head, and inspired me with a tenderness
+for those unhappy babes, which the shame
+of being their mother hitherto deprived them
+of.--I hear, with pleasure, that you are not
+married, and are therefore at full liberty to
+make some provision for them, if they are yet
+living, that may alleviate the misfortune of
+their birth. Farewell; if I obtain this first and
+last request, I shall dye well satisfied."
+
+"_P.S._ Burn this paper, I conjure you, the moment
+you have read it; but lay the contents
+of it up in your heart never to be forgotten."
+
+
+I now no longer wondered, pursued Dorilaus, at that impulse I had to
+love you;--I found it the simpathy of nature, and adored the divine
+power.--After having well fixed in my mind all the particulars of this
+amazing secret, I performed her injunction, and committed it to the
+flames: I had opportunity enough to inform her in what manner Horatio
+had disposed of himself, and let her know you were gone with a lady on
+her travels: I concealed indeed the motive, fearing to give her any
+occasion of reproaching herself for having so long concealed what my
+ignorance of might have involved us all in guilt and ruin.
+
+I stayed some few days at the castle, and then took my leave: she said
+many tender things at parting concerning you, and seemed well satisfied
+with the assurances I gave her of making the same provision for you, as
+I must have done had the ceremony of the church obliged me to it. This
+seemed indeed the only thing for which she lived, and, I was informed,
+died in a few days after.
+
+At my return to England I renewed my endeavours to discover where you
+were, but could hear nothing since you wrote from Aix-la-Chappelle, and
+was equally troubled that I had received no letters from your
+brother.--I doubted not but he had fallen in the battle, and mourned him
+as lost;--till an old servant perceiving the melancholy I was in,
+acquainted me that several letters had been left at my house by the post
+during my absence, but that the kinsman I had left to take care of my
+affairs had secreted them, jealous, no doubt, of the fondness I have
+expressed for him.--This so enraged me, when on examination I had too
+much reason to be assured of this treachery, that I turned my whole
+estate into ready money, and resolved to quit England for ever, and pass
+my life here, this being a country I always loved, and had many reasons
+to dislike my own.
+
+Here I soon heard news of my Horatio, and such as filled me with a
+pleasure, which wanted nothing of being complete but the presence of my
+dear Louisa to partake of it.
+
+Dorilaus then went on, and acquainted her with the particulars of
+Horatio's story, as he had learned it from the baron de Palfoy, with
+whom he now was very intimate; but as the reader is sufficiently
+informed of those transactions, it would be needless to repeat them; so
+I shall only say that Dorilaus arrived in France in a short time after
+Horatio had left it to enter into the service of the king of Sweden, and
+had wrote that letter, inserted in the eighteenth chapter, in order to
+engage that young warrior to return, some little time before his meeting
+with Louisa.
+
+Nothing now was wanting to the contentment of this tender father but the
+presence of Horatio, which he was every day expecting, when, instead of
+himself, those letters from him arrived which contained his resolution
+of remaining with Charles XII. till the conquests he was in pursuit of
+should be accomplished.
+
+This was some matter of affliction to Dorilaus, tho' in his heart he
+could not but approve those principles of honour which detained
+him.--Neither the baron de Palfoy, nor Charlotta herself, could say he
+could well have acted otherwise, and used their utmost endeavours to
+comfort a father in his anxieties for the safety of so valuable a son.
+
+Louisa was also very much troubled at being disappointed in her hope of
+embracing a brother, whom she had ever dearly loved, and was now more
+precious to her than ever, by the proofs she had heard he had given of
+his courage and his virtue; but she had another secret and more poignant
+grief that preyed upon her soul, and could scarce receive any addition
+from ought beside:--she had been now near two months in Paris, yet could
+hear nothing of monsieur du Plessis, but that, by the death of his
+father, a large estate had devolved upon him, which he had never come to
+claim, or had been at Paris for about eighteen months, so that she had
+all the reason in the world to believe he was no more. This threw her
+into a melancholy, which was so much the more severe as she endeavoured
+to conceal it:--she made use of all her efforts to support the loss of a
+person she so much loved, and who proved himself so deserving of that
+love:--she represented to herself that being relieved from all the
+snares and miseries of an indigent life, raised from an obscurity which
+had given her many bitter pangs, to a station equal to her wishes, and
+under the care of the most indulgent and best of fathers, she ought not
+to repine, but bless the bounty of heaven, who had bestowed on her so
+many blessings, and with-held only one she could have asked.--These, I
+say, were the dictates of reason and religion; but the tender passion
+was not always to be silenced by them, and whenever she was alone, the
+tears, in spight of herself, would flow, and she, without even knowing
+she did so, cry out, Oh du Plessis, wherefore do I live since thou
+art dead!
+
+Among the many acquaintance she soon contracted at Paris, there was none
+she so much esteemed, both on the account of her own merit, and the
+regard she had for Horatio, as mademoiselle de Palfoy. In this young
+lady's society did she find more charms for her grief than in that of
+any other; and the other truly loving her, not only because she found
+nothing more worthy of being loved, but because she was the sister of
+Horatio, they were very seldom asunder.
+
+Louisa was one day at the baron's, enjoying that satisfaction which the
+conversation of his beautiful daughter never failed to afford, when word
+was brought that madam, the countess d'Espargnes, was come to visit
+her.--Mademoiselle Charlotta ran to receive her with a great deal of
+joy, she being a lady she very much regarded, and who she had not seen
+of a long time.
+
+She immediately returned, leading a lady in deep mourning, who seemed
+not to be above five-and-twenty, was extremely handsome, and had beside
+something in her air that attached Louisa at first sight. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta presented her to the countess, saying at the same time, see,
+madam, the only rival you have in my esteem.
+
+You do well to give me one, replied the countess, who looks as if she
+would make me love her as well as you, and so I should be even with you.
+With these words she opened her arms to embrace Louisa, who returned the
+compliment with equal politeness.
+
+When they were seated, mademoiselle Charlotta began to express the
+pleasure she had in seeing her in Paris; on which the countess told her,
+that the affair she came upon was so disagreeable, that nothing but the
+happiness of enjoying her company, while she stayed, could attone for
+it. You know, my dear, continued madam d'Espargnes, I was always an
+enemy to any thing that had the face of business, yet am I now, against
+my will, involved in it by as odd an adventure as perhaps you
+ever heard.
+
+Charlotta testifying some desire to be informed of what nature, the
+other immediately satisfied her curiosity in this manner:
+
+You know, said she, that on the late death of my father, his estate
+devolved on my brother, an officer in those troops in Italy commanded by
+the prince of Conti:--some wounds, which were looked upon as extremely
+dangerous, obliged him, when the campaign was over, to continue in his
+winter quarters;--on which he sent to monsieur the count to take
+possession in his name; this was done; but an intricate affair relating
+to certain sums lodged in a person's hand, and to be brought before the
+parliament of Paris, could not be decided without the presence either of
+him or myself who had been witness of the transaction.--I was extremely
+loth to take so long a journey, being then in very ill health; and
+hearing he was recovered, delayed it, as we then expected him in
+person:--I sent a special messenger, however, in order to hasten his
+return;--but instead of complying with my desires, I received a letter
+from him, acquainting me that a business of more moment to him than any
+thing in my power to guess at, required his presence in another place,
+and insisted, by all the tenderness which had ever been between us, that
+I would take on myself the management of this affair:--to enable me the
+better to do it, he sent me a deed of trust to act as I should find it
+most expedient.
+
+As he did not let me into the secret of what motives detained him at so
+critical a juncture, I was at first very much surprized; but on asking
+some questions of the messenger I had sent to him, I soon discovered
+what it was. He told me that on his arrival, he found my brother had
+left his quarters and was gone to Bolognia, on which he followed and
+overtook him there;--that he appeared in the utmost discontent, and was
+just preparing to proceed to Leghorn, but did not mention to him any
+more than he did in his letter to me, what inducement he had to this
+journey:--his servant, however, told him privately, that the mystery was
+this:--That being passionately in love with a young English lady, whom
+he had placed in a monastery at Bolognia, and expected to find there at
+his return, she had in his absence departed, without having acquainted
+him with her design; and that supposing she was gone for England, and
+unable to live without her, his intention was to take shipping for that
+country, and make use of his utmost efforts to find her out.
+
+I must confess, pursued the beautiful countess, this piece of quixotism
+very much veved me:--I thought his friends in France deserved more from
+him than to be neglected for one who fled from him, and who, as the man
+said, he knew not whether he should be able ever to see again. I
+resolved, however, to comply with his desires, and came immediately to
+Paris; but heaven has shewed him how little it approves his giving me
+this unnecessary trouble, for this morning I received a letter from him,
+that meeting with robbers in his way, they had taken from him all his
+money and bills of exchange, besides wounding him in several places, so
+that he cannot proceed on his journey till his hurts, which it seems are
+not dangerous, are cured, and he has fresh remittances from hence.
+
+With what emotions the heart of Louisa was agitated during the latter
+part of this little narrative, a sensible reader may easily conceive:
+from the first mention of Bolognia, where there was no other English
+pensioner than herself, she knew it must be no other than her dear du
+Plessis who was in search for her abroad, while she was vainly hoping to
+find him at home:--every circumstance rendered this belief more certain;
+and surprize and joy worked so strongly in her, that fearing the effects
+would be visible, she rose up and withdrew to a window. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who knew she could not be capable of such an act of
+unpoliteness, without being compelled to it, asked if she were not
+well:--on which Louisa entreated pardon, but owned a sudden faintness
+had come over her spirits, so that she was obliged to be rude in order
+to prevent being troublesome.
+
+As mademoiselle Charlotta knew nothing of her story, she had no farther
+thought about it than of some little qualm, which frequently happens
+when young ladies are too closely laced, and she seeming perfectly
+recovered from, the conversation was renewed on the same subject it had
+turned upon before this interruption; and the name of monsieur du
+Plessis being often mentioned, confirmed Louisa, if before she could
+have had the least remains of doubt, that it was her lover who,
+neglectful of his own affairs, and the remonstrances of his expecting
+friends, was about to range in search of one who, he imagined, was
+ungrateful both to his love and friendship.
+
+After having listened, with the utmost attention, to all the countess
+said of him, and other matters becoming the topic of discourse, she took
+her leave, in order to reflect alone what she ought to do in
+this affair.
+
+She debated not long within herself before she resolved to write to him,
+and prevent the unprofitable journey he was about to take; and having
+heard, by madam d' Espargnes, the name of the village where he was
+obliged to wait, both for the recovery of his wounds and for remittances
+for his expences, she wrote to him in the following terms:
+
+_To monsieur_ DU PLESSIS.
+
+
+"I should ill return the proofs I have received
+of your generous disinterested friendship,
+to delay one moment that I had it in my power,
+in endeavouring to convince you that it was a
+quite contrary motive than ingratitude to you,
+that carried me from Bolognia:--but the story
+is too long for the compass of a letter; when
+you know it, you will, perhaps, own this action,
+whatever you may now think of it, merits
+more, than any thing I could have done, your
+approbation:--this seeming riddle will be easily
+expounded, if, on the recovery of your
+wounds, you repair immediately to Paris, where
+you will find
+
+_Your much obliged_,
+
+LOUISA."
+
+
+Having finished this little billet, a scruple rose in her head, that
+being now under the care of a father, she ought not to do any thing of
+this nature without his permission:--she had already told him how
+greatly she had been indebted to du Plessis for his honourable passion,
+but had not mentioned the least tittle of the tender impressions it had
+made on her; and she so lately knew him to be her father, that she was
+ashamed to make him the confidant of an affair of this nature, but then,
+when she considered the quality of du Plessis, which she was now
+confirmed of, and the sense Dorilaus testified he had of his behaviour
+to her while he believed her so infinitely his inferior, made her
+resolve to drain her modesty so far as to inform him all.
+
+She began by relating her accidental meeting with madam, the countess
+d'Espargnes and the conversation that passed at mademoiselle de
+Palfoy's, and then, tho' not without immoderate blushes, shewed him what
+she had wrote, and beseeched him to let her know whether it would be
+consistent with a virgin's modesty, and also agreeable to his pleasure,
+that she gave this demonstration of her gratitude for the favours she
+had received from this young gentleman.
+
+Dorilaus was charmed with this proof of her duty and respect, and told
+her, that he was so far from disapproving what she had wrote, that had
+she omitted it, or said less than she did, he should have looked upon
+her as unworthy of so perfect a passion as that which monsieur du
+Plessis on all occasions, testified for her:--that, in his opinion, she
+owed him more than she could ever pay; and that it should be his
+endeavour to shew he had not placed his affections on the daughter of
+one who knew not how to set a just value on merit such as his:--he made
+her also add a postscript to the letter, to give a direction in what
+part of Paris he might find her on his arrival; but Louisa would by no
+means give the least hint of the alteration in her circumstances, not
+that she wanted any farther proofs of his sincerity, but that she
+reserved the pleasure of so agreeable a surprize to their meeting. This
+letter was dispatched immediately, to the end he might receive it, at
+least, as soon as that from his sister with the expected remittances.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXV.
+
+_Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: his reception from Dorilaus and
+Louisa: the marriage of these lovers agreed upon_.
+
+The innocent pleasure Louisa felt in picturing to herself the extacy
+which du Plessis would be in at the receipt of her letter, was not a
+flattering idea:--to know she was in Paris, where, in all probability,
+she had come to seek him, and to have the intelligence of it from
+herself, had all the effect on him that the most raptured fancy
+can invent.
+
+His orders to madam d' Espargnes being punctually complied with, his
+bills of exchange also came soon after to hand; and the little hurts he
+had received from the robbers, as well as those of his mind, being
+perfectly healed, he set out with a lover's expedition, and arrived in
+Paris to the pleasing surprize of a sister who tenderly loved him, and
+expected not this satisfaction of a long time.
+
+He took but one night's repose before he enquired concerning Dorilaus,
+and was told that he was a person of quality in England; but, on some
+disgust he had received in his native country, was come to settle in
+France. As Louisa was extremely admired, they told him also that he had
+a very beautiful daughter, of whom he was extremely fond. This last
+information gave not a little ease to the mind of him who heard it, and
+dissipated those apprehensions which the high character they gave of
+Dorilaus had, in spite of himself, excited in him: he now imagined that
+as they were English, his Louisa might possibly have been acquainted
+with the daughter of this gentleman in their own country, and meeting
+her at Paris, might have put herself under her protection.
+
+Full of those impatiencies which are inseparable from a sincere passion,
+he borrowed his sister's chariot, and went to the Fauxbourg St.
+Germains; and being told one of the best houses in the place was that of
+Dorilaus, he asked for mademoiselle Louisa, on which he was desired to
+alight, and shewed into a handsome parlour while a servant went in to
+inform her: after this, he was ushered up stairs into a room, the
+furniture of which shewed the elegance of the owner's taste; but
+accustomed to every thing that was great and magnificent, the gilded
+scenes, the rich tapestry, the pictures, had no effect on him, till
+casting his eyes on one that hung over the chimney, he found the exact
+resemblance of the dear object never absent from his heart.--It was
+indeed the picture of Louisa, which her father, soon after her arrival,
+had caused to be drawn by one of the best painters at that time in
+Paris. This sight gave him a double pleasure, because it, in some
+measure, anticipated that of the original, and also convinced him that
+she was not indifferent to the person she was with.
+
+He was fixed in contemplation on this delightful copy, when the original
+appeared in all the advantages that jewels and rich dress could give
+her.--Tho' he loved her only for herself, and nothing could add to the
+sincere respect his heart had always paid her, yet to see her so
+different from what he expected, filled him with a surprize and a kind
+of enforced awe, which hindered him from giving that loose to his
+transports, which, after so long an absence, might have been very
+excusable;--and he could only say--my dear adorable Louisa, am I so
+blessed to see you once more!--She met his embrace half way, and
+replied, monsieur du Plessis, heaven has given me all I had to wish in
+restoring to me so faithful a friend;--but come, continued she, permit
+me to lead you to a father, who longs to embrace the protector of his
+daughter's innocence. Your father, madam! cried he; yes, answered she;
+in seeking a lover at Paris I found a father; Dorilaus is my father:--I
+have acquainted him with all the particulars of our story, and, I
+believe, the sincere affection I have for you will not be less pleasing
+for receiving his sanction to it.
+
+With these words she took his hand and led him, all astonishment, into
+an inner room where Dorilaus was sitting, who rose to meet him with the
+greatest politeness, and which shewed that to be master of, it was not
+necessary to be born in France; and on Louisa's acquainting him with the
+name of the person she presented, embraced him with the tenderness of a
+father, and made him such obliging and affectionate compliments, as
+confirmed to the transported du Plessis the character had been given
+of him.
+
+After the utmost testimonies of respect on both side, Dorilaus told his
+daughter she ought to make her excuses to monsieur for having eloped
+from the monastry where he had been so good to place her, which, said
+he, I think you can do in no better a manner than by telling the truth,
+and as I am already sufficiently acquainted with the whole, will leave
+you to relate it, while I dispatch a little business that at present
+calls me hence. He went out of the room in speaking this, and Louisa had
+a more full opportunity of informing her lover of all she had suffered
+since their parting, till this happy change in her fortune, than she
+could have had in the presence of her father, tho' no stranger to her
+most inmost thoughts on this occasion.
+
+The pleasing story of her pilgrimage rehearsed, how did the charmed du
+Plessis pity and applaud, by turns, her sufferings and fortitude!--How
+exclaim against the treachery of the abbess, and those of the nuns who
+were in confederacy with her! But his curiosity satisfied in this point,
+another rose instantly in his mind, that being the daughter of such a
+person as Dorilaus, wherefore she had made so great a secret of it, and
+what reason had occasioned her being on the terms she was with Melanthe.
+He no sooner expressed his wonder on these heads, than, having before
+her father's permission to do so, she resolved to leave him in no
+suspence on any score relating to her affairs.
+
+Tho', said she blushing, I cannot reveal the history of my birth without
+laying open the errors of those to whom I owe my being, yet I shall not
+think the sacrifice too great to recompence the obligations you have
+laid upon me; and then proceeded to acquaint him with every thing
+relating to her parents, as well as to herself, from the first moment
+she was found in the garden of Dorilaus.
+
+It is not to be doubted but that he listened to the story with the
+utmost attention, in which he found such matters of admiration, that he
+could not forbear frequently interrupting her, by crying, Oh heaven! oh
+providence! how mysterious are thy ways!--How, in thy disposal of
+things, dost thou force us to acknowledge thy divine power and wisdom!
+
+He was also extremely pleased to find she was the sister of Horatio,
+whom he had often been in company with both at the baron de la Valeire's
+and at St. Germains, and had admired for the many extraordinary
+qualities he discovered in him: this led them into a conversation
+concerning that young gentleman, and the misfortunes which some late
+news-paper gave an account were beginning to fall upon the king of
+Sweden; after that, renewing the subject of their mutual affection, and
+du Plessis running over the particulars of their acquaintance in Italy,
+Louisa asked whether the count de Bellfleur had ever testified any
+remorse for the injury he would have offered her, and in what manner
+they had lived together in the army? To which monsieur du Plessis
+replied, that the authority of the prince had prevented him from
+attempting any open acts of violence; but that by his manner of
+behaviour it was easy to see he had not forgiven the disappointment; and
+he verily believed wanted only a convenient opportunity to revenge it:
+but, continued he, whatever his designs were, heaven put a stop to the
+execution of them; for, in the first skirmish that happened between us
+and the forces of prince Eugene, this once gay, gallant courtier, had
+his head taken off by a cannon ball.
+
+The gentle Louisa could not forbear expressing some concern for the
+sudden fate of this bad man, greatly as she had been affronted by him;
+but when she reflected that the same accident might have befallen her
+dear du Plessis, she was all dissolved in tears.
+
+They were in this tender communication when Dorilaus returned leading
+the countess d'Espargnes in one hand, and mademoiselle de Palfoy in the
+other. Monsieur du Plessis was surprized to meet his sister in a place
+where he knew not she was acquainted, and she no less to find him there.
+The occasion of it was this:
+
+Dorilaus, when he left the lovers together, went directly to the baron
+de Palfoy's, and related to him and to mademoiselle the whole history of
+monsieur du Plessis and Louisa; on which they contriv'd to make a
+pleasant scene, by engaging the countess d'Espargnes to go with them to
+Dorilaus's, without letting her know on what account.--The event
+answered their wishes; madam d' Espargnes rallied her brother on finding
+him alone with so beautiful a young lady; and mademoiselle Charlotta,
+for his inconstancy to his mistress at Bolognia: but when the riddle was
+solved, and the countess came to know that the lady left in the
+monastery and Louisa were the same, she no longer condemned an
+attachment which before had given her so much pain.
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta chid her for the reserve she had maintained to
+her in this affair, especially, said she, as you were obliged to the
+conversation you had with madam d'Espargnes in my apartment, that you
+received any intelligence of monsieur du Plessis, or knew how to direct
+your commands to him to return.
+
+That, madam, is an obligation lies wholly on me, said monsieur du
+Plessis; and I believe I shall find it very difficult to requite it, any
+more than I shall to deserve my sister's pardon, for so industriously
+endeavouring to conceal from her the secret of my passion and
+its object.
+
+Louisa told the ladies that she now hoped they would excuse the disorder
+she had been in at the countess's discourse, since they knew the
+motive:--a good deal of pleasantry passed between this agreeable
+company; and as they were in the midst of it, the baron de Palfoy, who
+had been hindered from accompanying Dorilaus, when he conducted the
+ladies, now joined them; and tho' he was considerably older than any
+there, was no less entertaining and good-humoured than the youngest.
+
+Dorilaus had privately ordered a very magnificent collation, which being
+served up, Louisa did the honours of the table with so good a grace,
+that madam d' Espargnes was charmed with her, and took an opportunity of
+asking Dorilaus when she might hope the happiness of calling so amiable
+a lady by the name of sister. Du Plessis thanked her for the interest
+she took in his affairs; and the baron de Palfoy added, that as the
+lovers wanted no farther proofs how worthy they were of each other, he
+would join in solliciting for a completion of their happiness. To which
+Dorilaus replied, that he was too well satisfied with his daughter's
+conduct, not to leave her entirely at her own disposal; and as to what
+related to fortune and settlement, he should be ready to enter into such
+articles as, he believed, monsieur du Plessis would have no reason to
+complain of.
+
+The passionate lover at these words cried out, that it was Louisa's self
+alone he was ambitious of possessing; nor had either that lady or her
+father any room to look on what he said as a mere compliment, because
+his love had long since waved all the seeming disproportion
+between them.
+
+In fine, not only at this time, but every day, almost every hour, was
+Louisa, as it now depended wholly on herself, importuned by her lover
+and the countess d'Espargnes to render his happiness complete; but she
+still delayed it, desiring to hear some news of Horatio, the baron de
+Palfoy having settled every thing with Dorilaus concerning his marriage
+with mademoiselle Charlotta, she was willing, she said, that as they
+were born on the same day, their nuptials should be also celebrated at
+the same time.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was obliged to content himself with this since he
+could obtain no more; and for a time every thing passed smoothly and
+agreeably on; but news after news continually arriving of the king of
+Sweden's ill success in Ukrania, rendered all the noble friends of
+Horatio extremely dissatisfied:--the public accounts were too deficient
+for their information of any particular officer, and as there were very
+few French in the Swedish army, they could hope for no intelligence of
+him but from himself; which, as he omitted giving, they at last
+concluded he was either killed or taken prisoner; which last misfortune
+they looked upon as equal with the former:--the Russian barbarity, and
+their manner of treating those whom the chance of war threw into their
+hands, was no secret thro' all Europe; and whichever of these accidents
+had happened, must be very grievous to a gentleman of Dorilaus's
+disposition, who, when unknowing he was his son, loved him with more
+tenderness than many fathers do their offspring, but now convinced not
+only that he was so, but also that he was possessed of such amiable
+qualities as might do honour to the most illustrious race, had fixed an
+idea in his mind of such a lasting happiness in having him near him,
+that the thoughts of being deprived of him for ever threw him into a
+melancholy, which not all the friends he had acquired in Paris, not all
+the gaieties of that place, nor the sweet society of the engaging and
+dutiful Louisa, had the power to console. So deep was his affliction,
+that monsieur du Plessis, amorous and impatient as he was, had not
+courage to urge a grant of his own happiness, while those who were to
+bestow it, were incapable of sharing any part of it.
+
+Soon after there arrived a thunder-clap indeed:--certain intelligence
+that the once victorious Charles was totally overthrown, his whole army
+either cut to pieces or taken prisoners, and himself a fugitive in the
+grand seignior's dominions.--Dorilaus, now not doubting but the worst he
+feared had come to pass, shut himself from all company, and refused the
+unavailing comfort of those who came to offer it.--The fair eyes of
+Louisa were continually drowned in tears, and the generous du Plessis
+sympathized in all her griefs. But what became of mademoiselle Charlotta
+de Palfoy! her tender soul, so long accustomed to love Horatio, had not
+courage to support the shock of losing him;--losing him at a time when
+she thought herself secure of being united to him for ever;--when his
+discovered birth had rendered her father's wishes conformable to her
+own, and there wanted nothing but his presence to render both their
+families completely blessed:--all that excess of love which modesty had
+hitherto restrained her from giving any public marks of, now shewed
+itself in the violence of her grief and her despair.--She made no secret
+of her softest inclinations, and gave a loose to all the impatience of a
+ruined love. Even the haughty baron was melted into tears of compassion,
+and so far from condemning, that, he attempted all in his power to
+alleviate her sorrows.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXVI.
+
+_The Catastrophe of the whole_.
+
+Poor Horatio, released, as I have already said, from his worse than
+Turkish bondage, had now, with the companions of his misfortunes, left a
+country where they had suffered so much and had so little to hope, that
+their enlargement seemed even to themselves a miracle.--As they parted,
+miserable and forlorn, thro' those provinces where, about a year before,
+they had marched with so much pomp and force, as, together with the king
+of Sweden's name, inspired admiration and terror over all those parts of
+the world, it filled them with the most poignant anguish, and drew tears
+from those among them least sensible of any tender emotions.
+
+All this disconsolate company, except Horatio, being Swedes', they made
+the best of their way, some to Stockholm, and others to Straelsund.--Now
+left alone, a long journey before him, and altogether uncertain what
+reception he should find at Paris, either from Dorilaus or mademoiselle
+Charlotta, his condition was extremely pityable, and he stood in need of
+more fortitude than could be expected from his years, to enable him to
+go thro' it.
+
+The nearer he approached Paris, the greater was his shock at the
+necessity of appearing there in the despicable figure he now made; but
+his courage still got the better, and surmounted all difficulties. If
+Dorilaus thinks my disobedience to his commands a crime too great to
+merit his forgiveness, would he say to himself, or Charlotta disdains,
+in his misfortunes, the faithful Horatio, I have no more to do than to
+return to Poland and seek an honourable death in the service of
+Stanislaus.
+
+He made his entrance into that opulent city through the most bye-ways he
+could, and concealed himself till towards night in a little cabaret,
+where having soon been informed where Dorilaus lived, he went when it
+was quite dark to his house, though how divided between hope and fear it
+is easy to imagine. He knocked at the gate, which being opened by the
+porter, and he desiring to speak with his master, was answered with many
+impertinent questions, as--who he came from, what his business was, and
+such like interrogatories which the sawciness of servants generally put
+to persons such as this fellow took Horatio to be by his appearance. But
+he had no sooner desired he would tell Dorilaus that he came from
+Russia, and brought intelligence of Horatio, than his tone of voice and
+behaviour was quite changed.--Our traveller was now carried into a
+parlour and entreated to sit down, and the late surly porter called
+hastily for one of the servants, bidding him, with the utmost joy, run
+in and inform his master that here was a person come from Russia that
+could give him news of colonel Horatio.
+
+This a little raised the lately depressed spirits of Horatio, as it
+assured him his name was not unknown in that family, nor had been
+mentioned with indifference.
+
+He attended but a very little time before he was shewed up into
+Dorilaus's apartment, who was just opening his mouth to enquire if
+Horatio were yet living, and in what condition, when he saw it was
+himself. Surprize and joy rendered him incapable either of speaking to
+him, or hearing the apologies he was beginning to make for having
+disobeyed his commands:--but he fell upon his neck and gave him an
+embrace, which dissipated all Horatio's fears, and left him no room to
+doubt if his peace was made.
+
+No words were exchanged between them for a considerable time, but--oh my
+dear son, my ever loved Horatio, on the one side, my more than father,
+patron, on the other:--at length the tumultuous rapture of so unexpected
+a meeting and reception, giving way to a more peaceful calm,--Dorilaus
+made Horatio relate all the particulars had happened to him; and when he
+had ended, now, said he, I will reward the sincerity I easily perceive
+you have made use of in this narrative, by acquainting you, in my turn,
+with secrets you are far from having any notion of, and which, I
+believe, will compensate for all your sufferings, and make you own,
+that while you seemed to groan under the utmost severities of fortune,
+she was preparing for you all the blessings in her power to give, and
+even more than your ambition aimed at. But I have first a message to
+dispatch, continued he; at my return you shall know all.
+
+With these words he went out of the room, but came back in a moment,
+and, after renewing his embraces to Horatio, revealed to him the whole
+secret of his birth, with all had happened to Louisa till the time of
+their happy meeting in Paris.
+
+With what pleasing wonder the soul of Horatio was filled at this
+discovery, is much more easy to conceive than describe, so I shall leave
+it to the reader's imagination to guess what it was he felt and spoke on
+so extraordinary an occasion. While he was pouring out the transports it
+occasioned in the most grateful thanks to heaven, and his new found
+father, Louisa entered, Dorilaus having sent to the baron de Palfoy's,
+where he knew she was, to let her know a messenger from Russia was
+arrived with news of her brother:--they instantly knew each other,
+though it was upwards of four years since they were separated, and in
+that time the stature of both considerably increased:--nothing could
+exceed the joy of these amiable twins:--never was felicity more perfect,
+which yet received addition on Horatio's part, when Louisa told him,
+that it was as much as Charlotta could do to restrain herself from
+coming with her to hear what account the supposed messenger had brought.
+
+Dorilaus on this immediately sent to let her know his son was well, and
+expected in Paris the next day, for he would not suffer him to appear
+before her, or the baron, till a habit was made for him more agreeable
+to his condition than that he arrived in. It is certain that the
+impatience of a lover would have made Horatio gladly wave this ceremony,
+but he would not a second time dispute the commands of such a father.
+
+But wherefore should I delay the attention of my reader, who, I doubt
+not, but easily perceives by this time how things will end: so I shall
+only say that the meeting of Horatio and Charlotta was such, as might be
+expected from so arduous and constant an affection: that every thing
+having been settled between the two fathers at the time they sent their
+joint mandates to call him home, there now remained nothing but to
+celebrate the long desired nuptials, which was deferred no longer than
+was requisite for preparations to render the ceremony magnificent.
+
+The generous du Plessis and his beloved Louisa were also united the same
+day; and it would be hard to say which of these weddings afforded most
+satisfaction to the friends on both sides, or were attended with the
+most happy consequences to the persons concerned in them.
+
+By these examples we may learn, that to sustain with fortitude and
+patience whatever ills we are preordained to suffer, entitles us to
+relief, while by impatient struggling we should but augment the score,
+and provoke fate to shew us the vanity of all attempts to frustrate
+its decrees.
+
+_FINIS_.
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***
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+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***</div>
+
+<h2>THE</h2>
+<h2><i>FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS</i>:</h2>
+<h2>BEING THE</h2>
+<h2>GENUINE HISTORY</h2>
+<h2>OF</h2>
+<h2><i>Colonel</i> M——RS, <i>and his Sister,</i><br/>
+<i>Madam</i> DU P——Y, <i>the Issue of the<br/>
+Hon</i>. CH——ES M——RS, <i>Son of the<br/>
+late Duke of</i>&nbsp; R—— L——D</h2>
+<h3>CONTAINING</h3>
+<h3>Many wonderful ACCIDENTS that befel<br/>
+them in their TRAVELS, and interspersed with<br/>
+the CHARACTERS and ADVENTURES of<br/>
+SEVERAL PERSONS of <i>Condition</i>, in the<br/>
+most polite Courts of <i>Europe</i>.</h3>
+<p><i>The Whole calculated for the Entertainment and Improvement of the
+Youth of both Sexes</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>LONDON</i>:</p>
+<p>M,DCC,XLIV.</p>
+<p><br/>
+<br/>
+</p>
+<h3>THE</h3>
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+<p><i>The many Fictions which have been lately imposed upon the World,
+under the specious Titles of</i> Secret Histories, Memoirs,
+&amp;c. &amp;c. <i>have given but too much room to question the Veracity
+of every Thing that has the least Tendency that way: We therefore think it
+highly necessary to assure the Reader, that he will find nothing in the
+following Sheets, but what has been collected from</i> Original Letters,
+Private Memorandums, <i>and the</i> Accounts <i>we have been favoured with
+from the Mouths of Persons too deeply concerned in many of the</i> chief
+Transactions <i>not to be perfectly acquainted with the Truth, and of too
+much Honour and Integrity to put any false Colours upon it</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Adventures are not so long passed as to be wholly forgotten by
+many</i> Living Witnesses, <i>nor yet so recent as to give any Reason to
+suspect us of Flattery in the Relation given of them, the Motive of their
+Publication being only to</i> encourage Virtue <i>in both Sexes, by
+showing the Amiableness of it in</i> real Characters. <i>And if it be true
+(as certainly it is) that</i> Example has more Efficacy than Precept,
+<i>we may be bold to say there are few fairer, or more worthy
+Imitation.—The Sons and Daughters of the greatest Families may give
+additional Lustre to their Nobility, by forming themselves by the Model
+here presented to them; and those of lower Extraction, attain Qualities
+to attone for what they want in Birth:—So that we flatter ourselves this
+Undertaking will not fail of receiving the Approbation of all who wish
+well to a Reformation of Manners, and more especially those who have Youth
+under their Care.—As for such who may take it up merely as an Amusement,
+it is possible they will find something, which, by interesting their
+Affections, may make them better without designing to be so.—Either way
+will fully recompense the Pains taken in the compiling by<br/><br/>
+The</i> EDITORS.</p>
+<h3>THE</h3>
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+<p><br/>
+</p>
+<p>CHAP. I.</p>
+<p><i>Contains the Manner in which a Gentleman found two Children: His
+Benevolence towards them, and what kind of Affection he bore to them as
+they grew up; with the Departure of one of them to the Army</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. II.</p>
+<p><i>Relates the Offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the Manner of her
+receiving them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. III.</p>
+<p><i>Dorilaus continues his Importunities, with some unexpected
+Consequences that attended them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. IV.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa becomes acquainted with a Lady of Quality, Part of whose
+Adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. V.</p>
+<p><i>Horatio's Reception by the Officers of the Army: His Behaviour in
+the Battle: His being taken Prisoner by the French: His Treatment among
+them, and many other Particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VI.</p>
+<p><i>Describes the Masquerade at the Dutchess of Maine's: The Characters
+and Intrigues of several Persons of Quality who were there: The odd
+Behaviour of a Lady in regard to Horatio; and Charlotta's Sentiments
+upon it</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VII.</p>
+<p><i>An Explanation of the foregoing Adventure, with a Continuation of
+the Intrigues of some French Ladies, and the Policy of Mademoiselle
+Coigney in regard of her Brother</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VIII.</p>
+<p><i>The parting of Horatio and Mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. IX.</p>
+<p><i>A second Separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+Occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP X.</p>
+<p><i>The Reasons that induced Horatio to leave France: with the Chevalier
+St. George's Behaviour on knowing his Resolution. He receives an
+unexpected Favour from the Baron de Palfoy</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP XI.</p>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds Means to see Mademoiselle
+Charlotta, and afterwards pursues his Journey to Poland</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XII.</p>
+<p><i>Continuation of the Adventures of Louisa: Her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some Accidents that there befel them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XIII.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+Behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable Passion for her: Her
+Sentiments and Way of acting on this Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XIV.</p>
+<p><i>The base Designs of the Count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy
+Change in Louisa's Way of Life: The generous Behaviour of Monsieur du
+Plessis on that Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XV.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa is in Danger of being ravished by the Count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by Monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+Particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XVI</p>
+<p><i>The Innkeeper's Scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: Her
+Behaviour on the Discovery of the Count's Falshood. Louisa changes her
+Resolution, and goes to Bolognia.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XVII.</p>
+
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Warsaw; sees the Coronation of Stanislaus and his
+Queen: His Reception from the King of Sweden: His Promotion: Follows that
+Prince in all his Conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The Story
+of Count Patkull and Madame de Eusilden.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XVIII</p>
+
+<p><i>King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the Troubles In Poland:
+Charles XII. gives Laws to the Empire: A Courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives Letters, which give him great Surprize.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAP. XIX.</p>
+
+<p><i>The King of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with
+an Instance of Russian Brutality, drives the Czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken Prisoner by
+the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where he suffers the extremest
+Miseries.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAP. XX.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Treachery of a Russian Lady to her Friend: Her Passion for
+Horatio: The Method he took to avoid making any Return, and some other
+entertaining Occurrences.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XXI.</p>
+<p><i>The Prisoners Expectations raised: A terrible Disappointment: Some
+of the chief carried to Prince Menzikoff's Palace: Their Usage there:
+Horatio set at Liberty, and the Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXII.</p>
+<p><i>What befel Louisa in the Monastery: The Stratagem she put in
+Practice to get out of it: Her Travels cross Italy, and Arrival at
+Paris</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXIII.</p>
+<p><i>Shews by what Means Louisa came to the Knowledge of her Parents,
+with other Occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXIV.</p>
+<p><i>The History of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other Circumstances very
+important to Louisa</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXV.</p>
+<p><i>Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: His Reception from Dorilaus
+and Louisa: The Marriage agreed upon</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXVI.</p>
+<p><i>The Catastrophe of the Whole</i>.</p>
+<br/><br/><br/>
+
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>THE FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. I.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Contains the manner in which a gentleman found children: his
+benevolence towards them, and what kind of affection he bore to them as
+they grew up. With the departure of one of them to the army</i>.</p>
+<p>It was in the ever memorable year 1688, that a gentleman, whose real
+name we think proper to conceal under that of Dorilaus, returned from
+visiting most of the polite courts of Europe, in which he had passed some
+time divided between pleasure and improvement. The important question if
+the throne were vacated or not, by the sudden departure of the unfortunate
+king James, was then upon the tapis; on which, to avoid interesting
+himself on either side, he forbore coming to London, and crossed the
+country to a fine feat he had about some forty miles distant, where he
+resolved to stay as privately as he could, till the great decision should
+be made, and the public affairs settled in such a manner as not to lay him
+under a necessity of declaring his sentiments upon them.</p>
+<p>He was young and gay, loved magnificence and the pomp of courts, and
+was far from being insensible of those joys which the conversation of the
+fair sex affords; but had never so much enslaved his reason to any one
+pleasure, as not to be able to refrain it. Hunting and reading were very
+favourite amusements with him, so that the solitude he now was in was not
+at all disagreeable or tedious to him, tho' he continued in it some
+months.</p>
+<p>A little time before his departure an accident happened, which gave him
+an opportunity of exercising the benevolence of his disposition; and, tho'
+it then seemed trivial to him, proved of the utmost consequence to his
+future life, as well as furnished matter for the following pages.</p>
+<p>As he was walking pretty early one morning in his garden, very intent
+on a book he had in his hand, his meditations were interrupted by an
+unusual cry, which seemed at some distance; but as he approached a little
+arbour, where he was sometimes accustomed to sit, he heard more plain and
+distinct, and on his entrance was soon convinced whence it proceeded.</p>
+<p>Just at the foot of a large tree, the extensive boughs of which greatly
+contributed to form the arbour, was placed a basket closely covered on the
+one side, and partly open on the other to let in the air. Tho' the sounds
+which still continued to issue from it left Dorilaus no room to doubt what
+it contained; he stooped down to look, and saw two beautiful babes neatly
+dressed in swadling cloaths: between them and the pillow they were laid
+upon was pinned a paper, which he hastily taking off, found in it these
+words.</p>
+<p><i>To the generous</i> DORISLAUS:<br/>
+'Irresistible destiny abandons these helpless infants<br/>
+to your care.—They are twins, begot<br/>
+by the same father, and born of the same mother,<br/>
+and of a blood not unworthy the protection<br/>
+they stand in need of; which if you vouchsafe to<br/>
+afford, they will have no cause to regret the misfortune<br/>
+of their birth, or accuse the authors of<br/>
+their being.—Why they seek it of you in particular,<br/>
+you may possibly be hereafter made sensible.—In<br/>
+the mean time content yourself with<br/>
+knowing they are already baptized by the names<br/>
+of Horatio and Louisa.'</p>
+<p>The astonishment he was in at so unexpected a present being made him,
+may more easily be imagined than expressed; but he had then no time to
+form any conjectures by whom or by what means it was left there: the
+children wanted immediate succour, and he hesitated not a moment whether
+it would become him to bestow it: he took the basket up himself, and
+running as fast as he could with it into the house, called his
+maid-servants about him, and commanded them to give these little strangers
+what assistance was in their power, while a man was sent among the tenants
+in search of nurses proper to attend them. To what person soever, said he,
+I am indebted for this confidence, it must not be abused.—Besides,
+whatever stands in need of protection, merits protection from those who
+have the power to give it.</p>
+<p>This was his way of thinking, and in pursuance of these generous
+sentiments he always acted. The report of what happened in his house being
+soon spread thro' the country, there were not wanting several who came to
+offer their service to the children, out of which he selected two of whom
+he heard the best character, and were most likely to be faithful to the
+trust reposed in them, giving as great a charge, and as handsome an
+allowance with them, as could have been expected from a father. Indeed he
+doubtless had passed for being so in the opinion of every body, had he
+arrived sooner in the kingdom; but the shortness of the time not
+permitting any such suggestion, he was looked upon as a prodigy of charity
+and goodness.</p>
+<p>Having in this handsome manner disposed of his new guests, he began to
+examine all his servants, thinking it impossible they should be brought
+there without the privity of some one of them; but all his endeavours
+could get him no satisfaction in this point. He read the letter over and
+over, yet still his curiosity was as far to seek as ever.—The hand he was
+entirely unacquainted with, but thought there was something in the style
+that showed it wrote by no mean person: the hint contained in it, that
+there was some latent reason for addressing him in particular on this
+account, was very puzzling to him: he could not conceive why he, any more
+than any other gentleman of the county, should have an interest in the
+welfare of these children: he had no near relations, and those distant
+ones who claimed an almost forgotten kindred were not in a condition to
+abandon their progeny.—The thing appeared strange to him; but all his
+endeavours to give him any farther light into it being unsuccessful; he
+began to imagine the parents of the children had been compelled by
+necessity to expose them, and had had only wrote in this mysterious manner
+to engage a better reception: he also accounted in his mind for their
+being left with him, as, he being a batchelor, and having a large estate,
+it might naturally be supposed there would be fewer impediments to their
+being taken care of, than either where a wife was in the case, or a narrow
+fortune obliged the owner to preserve a greater oeconomy in expences.</p>
+<p>Being at last convinced within himself that he had now explained this
+seeming riddle, he took no farther trouble about whose, or what these
+children were, but resolved to take care of them during their infancy,
+and afterwards to put them into such a way as he should find their
+genius's rendered them most fit for, in order to provide for themselves.</p>
+<p>On his leaving the county, he ordered his housekeeper to furnish every
+thing needful for them as often as they wanted it, and to take care they
+were well used by the women with whom he had placed them; and delivered
+these commands not in a cursory or negligent manner, but in such terms as
+terrified any failure of obedience in this point would highly incur his
+displeasure.</p>
+<p>Nothing material happening during their infancy, I shall pass over
+those years in silence, only saying that as often as Dorilaus went down to
+his estate (which was generally two or three times a year) he always sent
+for them, and expressed a very great satisfaction in finding in their
+looks the charge he had given concerning them so well executed: but when
+they arrived at an age capable of entertaining him with their innocent
+prattle, what before was charity, improved into affection; and he began to
+regard them with a tenderness little inferior to paternal; but which still
+increased with their increase of years.</p>
+<p>Having given them the first rudiments of education in the best schools
+those parts afforded, he placed Louisa with a gentlewoman, who deservedly
+had the reputation of being an excellent governess of youth, and brought
+Horatio in his own chariot up to London, where he put him to Westminster
+School, under the care of doctor Busby, and agreed for his board in a
+family that lived near it, and had several other young gentlemen on the
+same terms.</p>
+<p>What more could have been expected from the best of fathers! what more
+could children, born to the highest fortunes, have enjoyed! nor was their
+happiness like to be fleeting: Dorilaus was a man steady in his
+resolutions, had always declared an aversion to marriage, and by
+rejecting every overture made him on that score, had made his friends
+cease any farther importunities; he had besides (as has already been
+observed) no near relations, so that it was the opinion of most people
+that he would make the young Horatio heir to the greatest part of his
+estate, and give Louisa a portion answerable to her way of bringing up.
+What he intended for them, however, is uncertain, he never having declared
+his sentiments so far concerning them; and the strange revolutions
+happening afterwards in both their fortunes, preventing him from acting as
+it is possible he might design.</p>
+<p>The education he allowed them indeed gave very good grounds for the
+above-mentioned conjecture.—Louisa being taught all the accomplishments
+that became a maid of quality to be mistress of; and Horatio having gone
+thro' all the learning of the school, was taken home to his own house,
+from whence he was to go to Oxford, in order to finish his studies in the
+character of a gentleman-commoner.</p>
+<p>But when every thing was preparing for this purpose, he came one
+morning into the chamber of his patron, and throwing himself on his
+knees—Think me not, sir, said he, too presuming in the request I am
+about to make you.—I know all that I am is yours.—That I am the creature
+of your bounty, and that, without being a father, you have done more for
+me than many of those, who are so, do for their most favourite sons.—I
+know also that you are the best judge of what is fit for me, and have not
+the least apprehensions that you will not always continue the same
+goodness to me, provided I continue, as I have hitherto done, the ambition
+of meriting it.—Yet, sir, pardon me if I now discover a desire with which
+I long have laboured, of doing something of myself which may repair the
+obscurity of my birth, and prove to the world that heaven has endued this
+foundling with a courage and resolution capable of undertaking the
+greatest actions.</p>
+<p>In speaking these last words a fire seemed to sparkle from his eyes,
+which sufficiently denoted the vehemence of his inward agitations.
+Dorilaus was extremely surprized, but after a little pause, what is it you
+request of me? said that noble gentleman, (at the same time raising him
+from the posture he was in) or by what means than such as I have already
+taken, can I oblige you to think that, in being my foundling, fortune
+dealt not too severely with you?</p>
+<p>Ah! sir, mistake me not, I beseech you, replied the young Horatio, or
+think me wanting in my gratitude either to heaven or you.—But, sir, it is
+to your generous care in cultivating the talents I received from nature,
+that I owe this emulation, this ardor for doing something that might give
+me a name, which is the only thing your bounty cannot bestow.—My genius
+inclines me to the army.—Of all the accomplishments you have caused me to
+be instructed in, geography, fortification, and fencing, have been my
+darling studies.—Of what use, sir, will they be to me in an idle life?
+permit me then the opportunity of showing the expense you have been at has
+not been thrown away.—I know they will say I am too young to bear a
+commission, but if I had the means of going a volunteer, I cannot help
+thinking but I should soon give proofs the extreme desire I have to serve
+my country that way would well attone for my want of years.</p>
+<p>The more he spoke, the more the astonishment of his patron increased:
+he admired the greatness of his spirit, but was troubled it led him to a
+desire of running into so dangerous a way of life.—He represented to him
+all the hardships of a soldier, the little regard that was sometimes paid
+to merit, and gave him several instances of gentlemen who had passed their
+youth in the service, and behaved with extreme bravery, yet had no other
+reward than their fears, and a consciousness of having done more than was
+their duty: in war, said he, the superior officers carry away all the glory
+as well as profits of the victory; whereas in civil employments it is quite
+otherwise: in physic, in law, in divinity, or in the state, your merits
+will be immediately conspicuous to those who have the power to reward you;
+and if you are desirous of acquiring a name, by which I suppose you mean
+to become the head of a family, any of these afford you a much greater
+prospect of success, and it lies much more in my power of assisting your
+promotion.</p>
+<p>To these he added many other arguments, but they were not of the least
+weight with the impatient Horatio. He was obstinate in his entreaties,
+which he even with tears enforced, and Dorilaus, considering so strong a
+propensity as something supernatural, at last consented.—Never was joy
+more sincere and fervent than what this grant occasioned, and he told his
+benefactor that he doubted not but that hereafter he should hear such an
+account of his behaviour, as would make him not repent his having complied
+with his request.</p>
+<p>The preparations for his going to Oxford were now converted into others
+of a different nature.—Several of our troops were already sent to
+Flanders, and others about to embark, in order to open the campaign; so
+that there was but a small space between the time of Horatio's asking
+leave to go, and that of his departure, which Dorilaus resolved should be
+in a manner befitting a youth whom he had bred up as his own. He provided
+him a handsome field-equipage, rich cloaths, horses, and a servant to
+attend him; and while these things were getting ready, had masters to
+perfect him in riding; and those other exercises proper for the vocation
+he was now entering into, all which he performed with so good a grace,
+that not only Dorilaus himself, who might be suspected to look on him with
+partial eyes, but all who saw him were perfectly charmed.</p>
+<p>He was more than ordinarily tall for his years, admirably well
+proportioned, and had something of a grave fierceness in his air and
+deportment, that tho' he was not yet sixteen, he might very well have
+passed for twenty: he was also extremely fair, had regular features, and
+eyes the most penetrating, mixed with a certain sweetness; so that it was
+difficult to say whether he seemed most formed for love or war.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus thinking it highly proper he should take his leave of Louisa,
+sent for her from the boarding-school, that she might pass the short time
+he had to stay with her brother at his house, not without some hopes that
+the great tenderness there was between them might put Horatio out of his
+resolution of going to the army, who being grown now extremely dear to
+him, he could not think of parting with, tho' he had yielded to it,
+without a great deal of reluctance.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that when she first heard the motive which had
+occasioned her being sent for, her gentle breast was filled with the most
+terrible alarms for her dear brother's danger; but the little regard he
+seemed to have of it, and the high ideas he had of future greatness, soon
+brought her to think as he did; and instead of dissuading him from
+prosecuting his design, she rather encouraged him in it: and in this gave
+the first testimony of a greatness of soul, no less to be admired than the
+courage and laudable ambition which actuated that of her brother.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus beheld with an infinity of satisfaction the success of his
+endeavours, in favour of these amiable twins, and said within himself, how
+great a pity would it have been, if capacities such as theirs had been
+denied the means of improvement!</p>
+<p>After the departure of Horatio, he kept Louisa some time with him,
+under pretence of showing her the town, which before she had never seen;
+but in reality to alleviate that melancholy which parting from her
+brother had caused in him. He could not have taken a more effectual way;
+for there was such an engaging and sweet cheerfulness in her conversation,
+added to many personal perfections, that it was scarce possible to think
+of any thing else while she was present. She had also an excellent voice,
+and played well on the bass viol and harpsicord, so that it is hard to say
+whether he found most satisfaction in hearing her or discoursing with
+her.</p>
+<p>But how dangerous is it to depend on one's own strength, against the
+force of such united charms! Dorilaus, who, in the midst of a thousand
+temptations, had maintained the entire liberty of his heart, and tho'
+never insensible of beauty, had never been enslaved by it, was now by
+charms he least suspected, and at an age when he believed himself proof
+against all the attacks of love, subdued without knowing that he was
+so.—The tender passion stole into his soul by imperceptible degrees, and
+under the shape of friendship and paternal affection, met with no
+opposition from his reason, till it became too violent to be restrained;
+then showed itself in the whole power of restless wishes, fears, hopes,
+and impatiences, which he had often heard others complain of, but not till
+now experienced in himself: all that he before had felt of love was
+languid, at best aimed only at enjoyment, and in the gratification of that
+desire was extinguished; but the passion he was possessed of for Louisa
+was of a different nature, and accompanied with a respect which would not
+suffer him to entertain a thought in prejudice of her innocence.</p>
+<p>Many reasons, besides his natural aversion to marriage, concurred to
+hinder him from making her his wife; and as there were yet more to deter
+him from being the instrument of her dishonour, the situation of his mind
+was very perplexing.—He blushed within himself at the inclinations he had
+for a girl whom he had always behaved to as a child of his own, and who
+looked upon him as a father: not only the disparity of their years made
+him consider the passion he was possessed of as ridiculous, there was one
+circumstance, which, if at any time a thought of marrying her entered into
+his head, immediately extirpated it, which was, that there was a
+possibility of her being born not only of the meanest, but the vilest
+parents, who, on hearing her establishment, might appear and claim the
+right they had in her; and lo, said he, I shall ally myself to, perhaps, a
+numerous family of vagabonds; at least, whether it be so or not, the
+manner in which these children were exposed, being publicly known, may
+furnish a pretence for any wretch to boast a kindred.</p>
+<p>He was therefore determined to suppress a passion, which, as he had too
+much honour to seek the gratification of by one way, his prudence and
+character in the world would not allow him to think of by the other: and
+as absence seemed to him the best remedy, he sent her down into the
+country again with a precipitation, which made her (wholly ignorant of the
+real motive) fear she had done something to offend him. At parting, she
+entreated him to let her know if he had been dissatisfied with any thing
+in her behaviour.—Wherefore do you ask? said he, with some emotion, which
+the poor innocent still mistook for displeasure; because, answered she,
+dropping some tears at the same time, that you banish me from your
+presence. Why would you be glad to continue with me always? again demanded
+he. Yes indeed, said she; and if you loved me as well as you do my
+brother, you would never part with me; for I saw with what regret you let
+him go.</p>
+<p>This tender simplicity added such fewel to the fire with which Dorilaus
+was enflamed, that it almost consumed his resolution: he walked about the
+room some time without being able to speak, much less to quiet the
+agitation he was in. At last, Louisa, said he, I was only concerned your
+brother made choice of an avocation so full of dangers;—but I never
+intended to keep him at home with me:—he should have gone to Oxford to
+finish his studies; and the reason I send you again to the boarding-school
+is that you may perfect yourself in such things as you may not yet be
+mistress of:—as for any apprehensions of my being offended with you, I
+would have you banish them entirely, for I assure you, I can find nothing
+in you but what both merits and receives my approbation.</p>
+<p>She seemed extremely comforted with these words; and the coach being at
+the door, went into it with her accustomed chearfulness, leaving him in a
+state which none but those who have experienced the severe struggles
+between a violent inclination and a firm resolution to oppose it, can
+possibly conceive.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. II.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Relates the offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the manner of her
+receiving them</i>.</p>
+<p>Louisa was no sooner gone, than he wished her with him again, and was a
+thousand times about to send and have her brought back; but was as often
+prevented by the apprehensions of her discovering the motive.—He was now
+convinced that love does not always stand in need of being indulged to
+enforce its votaries to be guilty of extravagancies.</p>
+<p>—He had banished the object of his affections from his presence; he
+had painted all the inconveniences of pursuing his desires in the worst
+colours they would bear; yet all was insufficient!—Louisa was absent in
+reality, but her image was ever present to him.—Whatever company he
+engaged himself in, whatever amusement he endeavoured to entertain himself
+with, he could think only of her.</p>
+<p>—The Town without her seemed a desart, and every thing in it rather
+seemed irksome than agreeable; for several months did he endure this cruel
+conflict; but love and nature at last got the victory, and all those
+considerations which had occasioned the opposition subsided: he found it
+impossible to recover any tranquility of mind while he continued in this
+dilemma, and therefore yielded to the strongest side. All the arguments he
+had used with himself in the beginning of his passion seemed now weak and
+trifling: the difference of age, which he had thought so formidable an
+objection, appeared none in the light with which he at present considered
+it: he was now but in his fortieth year, and the temperance he had always
+observed had hindered any decay either in his looks or constitution.—What
+censures the world might pass on his marrying one of her age and obscure
+birth, he thought were of little weight when balanced with his internal
+peace.—Thus was he enabled to answer to himself all that could be offered
+against making her his wife; and having thus settled every thing, as he
+imagined, to the satisfaction of his passion, became no less resolute in
+following the dictates of it than he had been in combating it while there
+was a possibility of doing so.</p>
+<p>To this end he went down to his country seat, and as soon as he arrived
+sent to let Louisa know he would have her come and pass some time with him.
+She readily obeyed the summons, and found by his manner of receiving her
+that she was no less dear to him than her brother. As she had always
+considered him as a father, tho' she knew all her claim in him was
+compassion, she was far from suspecting the motive which made him treat
+her with so much tenderness; but he suffered her not long to remain in
+this happy ignorance. As he was walking with her one day in the garden, he
+purposely led her on that side where he had found Horatio and herself in
+the manner already related; and as they came towards the arbour, It was
+here, said he, that heaven put into my power the opportunity of affording
+my protection to two persons whom I think will not be ungrateful for what
+I have done.—I hope, Louisa, continued he, you will not at least deceive
+my good opinion of you; but as you have always found in me a real friend,
+you will testify the sense you have of my good wishes, by readily
+following my advice in any material point.</p>
+<p>I should be else unworthy, sir, answered she, of the life you have
+preserved; and I flatter myself with being guilty of nothing which should
+give you cause to call in question either my gratitude or duty.</p>
+<p>I insist but on the former, resumed he; nor can pretend to any claim to
+the latter;—look on me therefore only as your friend, and let me know
+your sentiments plainly and sincerely on what I think proper to ask you.
+This she having assured him she would do, he pursued his discourse in
+these or the like terms:</p>
+<p>You are now, said he, arrived at an age when persons of your sex
+ordinarily begin to think of marriage.—I need not ask you if you have
+ever received any addresses for that purpose; the manner in which you have
+lived convinces me you are yet a stranger to them; but I would know of you
+whether an overture of that kind, in favour of a man of honour, and who
+can abundantly endow you with the goods of fortune, would be disagreeable
+to you.</p>
+<p>Alas! sir, replied she, blushing, you commanded me to answer with
+sincerity, but how can I resolve a question which as yet I have never
+asked myself?—All that I can say is, that I now am happy by your bounty,
+and have never entertained one wish but for the continuance of it.</p>
+<p>On that you may depend, said he, while you continue to stand in need of
+it. But would it not be more pleasing to find yourself the mistress of an
+ample fortune, and in a condition to do the same good offices by others as
+you have found from me?—In fine, Louisa, the care I have taken of you
+would not be complete unless I saw you well settled in the world.—I have
+therefore provided a husband for you, and such a one as I think you can
+have no reasonable objection to.</p>
+<p>Sir, it would ill-become me to dispute your will, answered she,
+modestly, but as I yet am very young, and have never had a thought of
+marriage, nor even conversed with any who have experienced that fate, I
+should be too much at a loss how to behave in it, without being allowed
+some time to consider on its respective duties.—I hope therefore, sir,
+continued she, you will not oblige me to act with too much precipitation
+in an affair on which the happiness or misery of my whole future life
+depends.</p>
+<p>Your very thinking it of consequence, said he, is enough to make you
+behave so, as to allure your happiness with a man of honour; and indeed
+Louisa, I love you too well to propose one to you whose principles and
+humour I could not answer for as well as my own.</p>
+<p>Yet, sir, replied she, I have read that a union of hearts as well as
+hands is necessary for the felicity of that state;—that there ought to be
+a simpathy of soul between them, and a perfect confidence in each other,
+before the indissoluble knot is tied:—and this, according to my notion,
+can only be the result of a long acquaintance and accompanied with many
+proofs of affection on both sides.</p>
+<p>Were all young women to think as you do, said he with a smile, we would
+have much fewer marriages; they would indeed be happier; therefore I am
+far from condemning your precaution, nor would wish you should give
+yourself to one till well assured he was incapable of treating you with
+less regard after marriage than before:—no, no, Louisa, I will never
+press you to become a wife, till you shall yourself acknowledge the man I
+offer to you as a husband is not unworthy of that title, thro' a want of
+honour, fortune, or affection.</p>
+<p>As Louisa thought this must be the work of time, the chagrin she felt
+at the first mention of marriage was greatly dissipated; and she told him,
+that when she was once convinced such a person as he described honoured
+her so far as to think she merited his affection, she would do all in her
+power to return it.</p>
+<p>The enamoured Dorilaus having now brought her to the point he aimed at,
+thought it best to throw off the mark at once, and leave her no longer in
+suspence.—Behold then in me, said he, the person I have mentioned: nor
+think me vain in ascribing those merits to myself which I would wish to be
+the loadstone of your affection.—My honour, I believe, you will not call
+in question:—my humour you have never found capricious, or difficult to
+please; and as for my love, you cannot but allow the conquering that
+aversion, which myself, as well as all the world, believed unalterable for
+a marriage state; besides a thousand other scruples opposed my entering
+into it with you, is a proof greater than almost any other man could give
+you.—There requires, therefore, my dear Louisa, no time to convince you
+of what I am, or assure you of what I may be; and I hope the affection you
+bore me, as a faithful friend, and the protector of your innocence, will
+not be diminished on my making this declaration.</p>
+<p>The confusion in which this speech involved her is even impossible to
+be conceived, much less can any words come up to its description: she
+blushed;—she trembled;—she was ready to die between surprize, grief and
+shame:—fain she would have spoke, but feared, lest what she should say
+would either lose his friendship or encourage his passion.—Each seemed
+equally dreadful to her:—no words presented themselves to her distracted
+mind that she could think proper to utter, till he pressing her several
+times to reply, and seeming a little to resent her silence—Oh! sir, cried
+she, how is it possible for me to make any answer to so strange a
+proposition!—you were not used to rally my simplicity; nor can I think
+you mean what you now mention. If there wanted no more, said he, than to
+prove the sincerity of my wishes in this point to gain your approbation of
+them, my chaplain should this moment put it past a doubt, and confirm my
+proposal:—but, pursued he, I will not put your modesty to any farther
+shock at present;—all I intreat is, that you will consider on what I
+have said, and what the passion I am possessed of merits from you. In
+concluding these words he kissed her with the utmost tenderness, and
+quitted her to speak to some men who were at work in another part of the
+garden, leaving her to meditate at liberty on this surprizing turn in her
+affairs.</p>
+<p>It was indeed necessary he should do so, for the various agitations she
+laboured under were so violent, as to be near throwing her into a
+swoon.—She no sooner found herself alone, than she flew to her chamber,
+and locked herself in, to prevent being interrupted by any of the
+servants; and as in all emotions of the mind, especially in that of a
+surprize, tears are a very great relief, her's found some ease from the
+sources of her eyes.—Never had the most dutiful child loved the tenderest
+of fathers more than she did Dorilaus; but then it was only a filial
+affection, and the very thoughts of his regarding her with that sort of
+passion she now found he did, had somewhat in them terribly alarming.—All
+she could do to reconcile herself to what seemed to be her fate was in
+vain.—This generous man who offers me his heart, said she, is not my
+father, or any way of my blood:—he has all the accomplishments of his
+whole sex centered in him.—I could wish to be for ever near him.—All
+that I am is owing to his goodness.—How wretched must I have been but for
+his bounty!—What unaccountable prejudice is this then that strikes me
+with such horror at his love!—what maid of birth and fortune equal to his
+own but would be proud of his addresses; and shall I, a poor foundling,
+the creature of his charity, not receive the honour he does me with the
+utmost gratitude!—shall I reject a happiness so far beyond my
+expectation!—so infinitely above any merit I can pretend to!—what must
+he think of me if I refuse him!—how madly stupid, how blind to my own
+interest, how thankless to him must I appear!—how will he despise my
+folly!—how hate my ingratitude!</p>
+<p>Thus did her reason combat with her prejudice, and she suffered much
+the same agonies in endeavouring to love him in the manner he desired, as
+he had done to conquer the inclination he had for her, and both alike were
+fruitless. Yet was her condition much more to be commiserated: he had only
+to debate within himself whether he should yield or not to the suggestions
+of his own passion: she to subdue an aversion for what a thousand reasons
+concurred to convince her she ought rather to be ambitious of, and which
+in refusing she run the risque of being cast off, and abandoned to beggary
+and ruin; and what was still more hateful to her, being hated by that
+person who, next to her brother, she loved above the world, tho' in a
+different way from that which could alone content him.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, who had taken the disorder he perceived in her for no other
+than the effects of a surprize, which a declaration, such as he had made,
+might very well occasion, was perfectly contented in his mind, and passed
+that night with much more tranquility than he had done many preceding
+ones, while he suffered his cruel reason to war against the dictates of
+his heart; but having now wholly given himself up to the latter, the sweet
+delusion filled him with a thousand pleasing ideas, and he thought of
+nothing but the happiness he should enjoy in the possession of the amiable
+Louisa. But how confounded was he, when the next day accosting her with
+all the tender transports of a lover, she turned from him, and burst into
+a flood of tears. How is this, Louisa, said he; do the offers I make you
+merit to be treated with disdain? has my submitting to be your lover
+forfeited that respect you were wont to pay me as a guardian? O do not,
+sir, accuse me of such black ingratitude, replied she; heaven knows with
+what sincere and humble duty I regard you, and that I would sooner die
+than wilfully offend you; but if I am so unfortunate as not to be able to
+obey you in this last command, impute it, I beseech you, to my ill fate,
+and rather pity than condemn me.</p>
+<p>You cannot love me then? cried he, somewhat feircely. No otherwise than
+I have ever done, answered she. My heart is filled with duty, reverence
+and gratitude, of which your goodness is the only source: as for any other
+sort of love I know not what it is; were it a voluntary emotion, believe
+me, sir, I gladly would give it entrance into my soul, but I well see it
+is of a far different nature.</p>
+<p>Yet is your person at your own disposal, resumed he; and when possessed
+of that, the flame which burns so fiercely in my breast, in time may
+kindle one in yours. In speaking these words he took her in his arms, and
+kissed her with a vehemence which the prodigious respect she bore to him,
+as the patron and benefactor of herself and brother, could alone have made
+her suffer.—Her eyes however sparkled with indignation, tho' her tongue
+was silent, and at last bursting from his embrace, this, sir, cried she,
+is not the way to make me think as you would have me. As in this action he
+had no way transgressed the rules of decency, he could ill brook the
+finding her so much alarmed at it; and would have testified his
+resentment, had not the excess of his love, which is ever accompanied with
+an adequate share of respect, obliged him to stifle it. Well, Louisa, said
+he, looking earnestly upon her, ungenerously do you requite what I have
+done for you; but I, perhaps, may bring myself to other sentiments.—None,
+interrupted she, emboldened by the too great freedom she thought he had
+taken with her, can be so dreadful to me as those you now seem to
+entertain.</p>
+<p>The look he gave her on hearing her speak in this manner, made her
+immediately repent having been so open; and in the same breath, because;
+pursued she, I look on it as the worst evil could befal me that I am
+compelled to oppose them.</p>
+<p>Come, said he, again softened by these last words, you will not always
+oppose them: the fervor and constancy of my passion, joined with a little
+yielding on your side, will by degrees excite a tender impulse in you; and
+whatever is disagreeable at present, either in my person or behaviour,
+will wear of.—Permit me at least to flatter myself so far, and refuse me
+not those innocent endearments I have been accustomed to treat you with;
+before you knew me as a lover, or I indeed suspected I should be so.</p>
+<p>He then kissed her again; but tho' he constrained himself within more
+bounds than before, those caresses which she received with pleasure, when
+thinking them only demonstrations of friendship, were now irksome, as
+knowing them the effects of love: she suffered him however to embrace her
+several times, and hold one of her hands close pressed between his, while
+he endeavoured to influence her mind by all the tender arguments his
+passion, backed with an infinity of wit, inspired; to all which she made
+as few replies as possible; but he contented himself, as love is always
+flattering, with imagining she was less refractory to his suit than when
+he first declared it.</p>
+<p>Every day, and almost the whole day, did he entertain her on no other
+subject, but gained not the least ground on her inclinations; and all he
+could get from her was the wish of being less insensible, without the
+least indication of ever being so.</p>
+<p>In this manner did they live together near three weeks; and how much
+longer be would have been able to restrain his impatience, or she to
+conceal the extreme regret in being compelled to listen to him, is
+uncertain: a law-suit required his presence to town, and Louisa was in
+hopes of being relieved for some time; but his passion was arrived at such
+a height that he could not support the least absence from her, and
+therefore brought her to London with him, so that her persecution ceased
+not, he never stirring from her but when the most urgent business obliged
+him to it.</p>
+<p>One night happening to have stayed pretty late abroad, and in company,
+which occasioned his drinking more plentifully than he was accustomed,
+Louisa was retired to her chamber in order to go to bed: his love, ever
+uppermost in his head, would not permit him to think of sleeping without
+seeing her; accordingly he ran up into her room, and finding she was not
+undressed, told her he had something to acquaint her with, on which the
+maid that waited on her withdrew. Tho' the passion he was inspired with
+could not be heightened, his behaviour now proved it might at least be
+rendered more ungovernable by being enflamed with wine: He no sooner was
+alone with her, than he threw himself upon her as she was sitting in a
+chair, crying, O when my angel, my dear adored Louisa, will you consent to
+make me blest.—By heaven, I can no longer wait the tedious formalities
+your modesty demands.—I cannot think you hate me, and must this night
+ensure you mine. While he spoke these words his lips were so closely
+cemented to her's, that had there been no other hindrance, it would have
+been impossible for her to have reply'd.—But terrified beyond measure at
+the wild disorder of his looks, the expressions he made use of, and the
+actions that accompanied them, she wanted even the power of repulsing,
+till seeing her almost breathless, he withdrew his arms which he had
+thrown round her neck, and contenting himself with holding one of her
+hands,—Tell me, pursued he, when may I hope a recompence for all I have
+suffered?—I must, I will have an end of all these fears of
+offending;—this cruel constaint;—this distance between us.—Few men,
+Louisa, in the circumstances we both are, would, like me, so long attend a
+happiness in my power to seize.—Trifle not therefore with a passion, the
+consequences of which there is no answering for.</p>
+<p>O, sir! said she, with a trembling voice, you cannot, from the most
+generous, virtuous and honourable man living, degenerate into a brutal
+ravisher.—You will not destroy the innocence you have cherished, and
+which is all that is valuable in the poor Louisa. She ended these words
+with a flood of tears, which, together with the sight of the confusion he
+had occasioned, made him a little recollect himself; and to prevent the
+wildness of his desires from getting the better of those rules he had
+resolved to observe, he let go her hand, and having told her that he would
+press her no farther that night, but expected a more satisfactory answer
+the next day, went out of her chamber, and left her to enjoy what repose
+she could after the alarm he had given her.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. III.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Dorilaus continues his importunities, with some unexpected
+consequences that attended them</i>.</p>
+<p>Poor Louisa concealed the distraction she was in as much as possible
+she could from the maid, who immediately came into the room on Dorilaus
+having quitted it, and suffered her to undress, and put her to bed as
+usual; but was no sooner there, than instead of composing herself to
+sleep, she began to reflect on what he had said:—the words, <i>that there
+was no answering for the consequences of a passion such as his</i>, gave
+her the most terrible idea.—His actions too, this night, seem'd to
+threaten her with all a virgin had to fear.—She knew him a man of honour,
+but thought she had too much reason to suspect that if she persisted in
+refusing to be his wife, that passion which had influenced him, contrary
+to his character, to make her such an offer, would also be too potent for
+any consideration of her to restrain him from proceeding to extremities.
+Having debated every thing within her own mind, she thought she ought not
+to continue a day longer in the power of a man who loved her to this
+extravagant degree: where to go indeed she knew not;—she had no friend,
+or even acquaintance, to whom she might repair, or hope to be
+received.—How should she support herself then?—which way procure even
+the most common necessaries of life?—This was a dreadful prospect! yet
+appeared less so than that she would avoid: even starving lost its horrors
+when compared either to being compelled to wed a man whom she could not
+affect as a husband, or, by refusing him, run the risque of forfeiting her
+honour.—She therefore hesitated but a small time, and having once formed
+the resolution of quitting Dorilaus's house, immediately set about putting
+it into execution.</p>
+<p>In the first place, not to be ungrateful to him as a benefactor, she
+sat down and wrote the following letter to be left for him on her table:</p>
+<p>SIR,<br/>
+'Heaven having rendered me of a disposition<br/>
+utterly incapable of receiving the honour<br/>
+you would do me, it would be an ill return for<br/>
+all the unmerited favours you have heaped upon<br/>
+me to prolong the disquiets I have unhappily occasioned<br/>
+by continuing in your presence;—besides,<br/>
+sir, the education you have vouchsafed to<br/>
+give me has been such, as informs me a person<br/>
+of my sex makes but an odd figure while in the<br/>
+power of one of yours possessed of the sentiments<br/>
+you are.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'These, sir, are the reasons which oblige me to<br/>
+withdraw; and I hope, when well considered,<br/>
+will enough apologize for my doing so, to keep<br/>
+you from hating what you have but too much<br/>
+loved; for I beseech you to believe a great truth,<br/>
+which is, that the most terrible idea I carry with<br/>
+me is, lest while I fly the one, I should incur the<br/>
+other; and that, wheresoever my good or ill stars<br/>
+shall conduct me, my first and last prayers shall<br/>
+be for the peace, health, and prosperity of my<br/>
+most generous and ever honoured patron and benefactor.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'Judge favourably, therefore, of this action,<br/>
+and rather pity than condemn the unfortunate<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.'</p>
+<p>Having sealed and directed this, she dressed herself in one of the
+least remarkable and plainest suits she had, taking nothing with her but a
+little linnen which she crammed into her pockets, and so sat waiting till
+she heard some of the family were stirring; then went down stairs, and
+being; seen by one of the footmen, she told him she was not very well, and
+was going to take a little walk in hopes the fresh air might relieve her;
+he offered to wait upon her, but she refused, saying, she chose to go
+alone.</p>
+<p>Thus had she made her escape; but, when in the street, was seized with
+very alarming apprehensions.—She was little acquainted with the town, and
+knew not which way to turn in search of a retreat.—Resolving, however, to
+go far enough, at least, from the house she had quitted, she wandered on,
+almost tired to death, without stopping any where, till chance directed
+her to a retired nook, where she saw a bill for lodgings on one of the
+doors.—Here she went in, and finding the place convenient for her present
+circumstances, hired a small, but neat chamber, telling the people of the
+house that she was come to town in order to get a service, and till she
+heard of one to her liking, would be glad to do any needle-work she should
+be employed in.</p>
+<p>The landlady, who happened to be a good motherly sort of woman,
+replied, that she was pleased with her countenance, or she would not have
+taken her in without enquiring into her character; and as she seemed not
+to be desirous of an idle life, she would recommend her to those that
+should find her work if she stayed with her never so long.</p>
+<p>This was joyful news to our fair fugitive; and she blessed heaven for
+so favourable a beginning of her adventures. The woman was punctual to her
+promise; and being acquainted with a very great milliner, soon brought her
+more work than she could do, without encroaching into those hours nature
+requires for repose: but she seemed not to regret any fatigue to oblige
+the person who employed her, and sent home all she did so neat, so curious,
+and well wrought, that the milliner easily saw she had not been accustomed
+to do it for bread, and was very desirous of having her into the house,
+and securing her to herself. Louisa thinking it would be living with less
+care, agreed to go, on this condition, that she should be free to quit her
+in case any offer happened of waiting upon a lady. This was consented to
+by the other, who told her, that since she had that design, she could no
+where be so likely to succeed as at her house, which was very much
+frequented by the greatest ladies in the kingdom, she having the most
+Curiosities of any woman of her trade, which they came there to raffle
+for.</p>
+<p>On this Louisa took leave of her kind landlady, who having taken a
+great fancy to her, and believing it would be for her advantage, was not
+sorry to part with her. A quite new scene of life now presented itself to
+her:—she found indeed the milliner had not made a vain boast; for her
+house was a kind of rendezvous, where all the young and gay of both sexes
+daily resorted.—It was here the marquis of W——r lost his heart, for a
+time, to the fine mrs. S——ge:—here, that the duke of G——n first
+declared his amorous inclinations for mrs. C——r:—here, that the
+seemingly virtuous lady B——n received the addresses of that agreeable
+rover mr. D——n:—here, that the beautiful dutchess of M—— gave that
+encouragement, which all the world had sighed for, to the more fortunate
+than constant mr. C——: in fine, it might properly enough be called the
+theatre of gallantry, where love and wit joined to display their several
+talents either in real or pretended passions.</p>
+<p>Louisa usually sat at work in a back parlor behind that where the
+company were; but into which some of them often retired to talk to each
+other with more freedom.</p>
+<p>This gave her an opportunity of seeing in what manner too many of the
+great world passed their time, and how small regard some of them pay to
+the marriage vow: everyday presented her with examples of husbands, who
+behaved with no more than a cold civility to their own wives, and carried
+the fervor of their addresses to those of other men; and of wives who
+seemed rather to glory in, than be ashamed of a train of admirers. How
+senseless would these people think me, said she to herself, did they know
+I chose rather to work for my bread in mean obscurity, than yield to marry
+where I could not love.—Tenderness, mutual affection, and constancy. I
+find, are things not thought requisite to the happiness of a wedded state;
+and interest and convenience alone consulted. Yet was she far from
+repenting having rejected Dorilaus, or being in the lead influenced by the
+example of others.—The adventures she was witness of made her, indeed,
+more knowing of the world, but were far from corrupting those excellent
+morals she had received from nature, and had been so well improved by a
+strict education, that she not only loved virtue for its own sake, but
+despised and hated vice, tho' disguised under the most specious
+pretences.</p>
+<p>Her youth, beauty, and a certain sprightliness in her air, was too
+engaging to be in the house of such a woman as mrs. C——ge, (for so this
+court-milliner was called) without being very much taken notice of; and
+tho' most of the gentlemen who came there had some particular object in
+view, yet that did not hinder them from saying soft things to the pretty
+Louisa as often as they had opportunity. Among the number of those who
+pretended to admire her was mr. B——n, afterwards lord F——h; but his
+addresses were so far from making any impression on her in favour of his
+person or suit, that the one was wholly indifferent to her, and the other
+so distasteful, that to avoid being persecuted with it, she entreated mrs.
+C——ge to permit her to work above stairs, that she might be out of the
+way of all such solicitations for the future, either from him or any
+other. This request was easily complied with, and the rather because she,
+who knew not the strength of her journey-woman's resolution, nor the
+principles she had been bred in, was sometimes in fear of losing so great
+a help to her business, by the temptations that might be offered in a
+place so much exposed to sight. Mr. B——n no sooner missed her, than he
+enquired with a good deal of earnestness for her; and on mrs. C——ge's
+telling him she was gone away from her house, became so impatient to know
+where, and on what account she had left her, that this woman thinking it
+would be of advantage to her to own the truth, (for she did nothing
+without that view) turned off the imposition with a smile, and said, that
+perceiving the inclinations he had for her, she had sent her upstairs that
+no other addresses might be a hindrance to his designs.—This pleased him
+very well, and he ran directly to the room where he was informed she was,
+and after some little discourse, which he thought was becoming enough from
+a person of his condition to one of her's, began to treat her with
+freedoms which she could not help resisting with more fierceness than he
+had been accustomed to from women of a much higher rank; but as he had no
+great notion of virtue, especially among people of her sphere, he mistook
+all she said or did for artifice; and imagining she enhanced the merit of
+the gift only to enhance the recompence, he told her he would make her a
+handsome settlement, and offered, as an earnest of his future gratitude, a
+purse of money. The generous maid fired with a noble disdain at a
+proposal, which she looked on only as an additional insult, struck down
+the purse with the utmost indignation and cried, she was not of the number
+of those who thought gold an equivalent for infamy; and that mean as she
+appeared, not all his wealth should bribe her to a dishonourable action.
+At first he endeavoured to laugh her out of such idle notions as he called
+them, and was so far from being rebuffed at any thing she said, that he
+began to kiss and toy with her more freely than before, telling her he
+would bring her into a better humour; but he was wholly deceived in his
+expectations, if he had any of the nature he pretended, for she became so
+irritated at being treated in this manner, that she called out to the
+servants to come to her assistance, and protected she would not stay an
+hour longer in the house if she could not be secured from such
+impertinencies; on which he said she was a silly romantic fool, and flung
+out of the room.</p>
+<p>Mrs. C——ge hearing there had been some bustle, came up soon after and
+found Louisa in tears: she immediately complained, of mr. B——n's
+behaviour to her, and said, tho' she acknowledged herself under many
+obligations to her for the favours she had conferred on her, she could not
+think of remaining in a place where, tho' she could not say her virtue had
+any severe trials, because she had a natural detestation to crimes of the
+kind that gentleman and some others had mentioned, yet her person was
+liable to be affronted. The milliner, who was surprized to hear her talk
+in this manner, but who understood her trade perfectly well, answered,
+that he was the best conditioned civil gentleman in the world;—that she
+did not know how it happened;—that she was certain indeed he loved her;
+and that it was in his power to make her a very happy woman if she were
+inclined to accept his offers;—but she would perswade her to nothing.</p>
+<p>These kind of discourses created a kind of abhorrence in Louisa, as
+they plainly shewed her, what before she had some reason to believe, that
+she was in the house of one who would think nothing a crime that she found
+it her own interest to promote. However, she thought it would be imprudent
+to break too abruptly with her, and contented herself for the present with
+encasing her promise that neither mr. B——n, nor any other person should
+for the future give her the least interruption of the like sort.</p>
+<p>From this day, however, she was continually ruminating how she should
+quit her house, without running the risque of disobliging her so far as
+not to be employed by her; for tho' she found herself at present free from
+any of those importunities to which both by nature and principles she was
+so averse, yet she could not answer to herself the continuing in a place
+where virtue was treated as a thing of little or no consequence, and where
+she knew not how soon she might again be subjected to affronts.</p>
+<p>Amidst these meditations the thoughts of Dorilaus frequently
+intervened: she reflected on the obligations she had to him, and the
+mighty difference between the morals of that truly noble and generous man,
+and most of those she had seen at mrs. C——ge's: she wondered at herself
+at the antipathy she had to him as a husband, whom she so dearly loved and
+honoured as a friend; yet nothing could make her wish to be again on the
+same terms with him she had lately been. It also greatly added to her
+affliction that she knew not how to direct to her brother; for at the time
+of his departure, little suspicious of having any occasion to change the
+place of her abode, she had left the care of that entirely to Dorilaus.
+She was one morning very much lost in thought on the odd circumstances of
+her fortune, when a Gazette happening to lye upon the table, she cast her
+eye, without design, upon the following advertisement.<br/>
+<br/>
+'Whereas a young gentlewoman has lately<br/>
+thought fit to abscond from her best friends,<br/>
+and with the most diligent search that could possibly<br/>
+be made after her has not yet been heard of,<br/>
+this is to acquaint her that if she pleases to return,<br/>
+she shall hereafter have no disturbance of that<br/>
+nature which it is supposed occasioned her withdrawing<br/>
+herself, but live entirely according to<br/>
+her own inclinations; and this the advertiser<br/>
+hereof gives his word and honour (neither of<br/>
+which she has any cause to doubt) faithfully to<br/>
+adhere to.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'It shall also be at her choice to live either at<br/>
+the house she quitted, or to be again under the<br/>
+care of that gentlewoman who was entrusted<br/>
+with her education: she is therefore requested to<br/>
+conceal herself no longer, lest her youth, beauty,<br/>
+and inexperience of the town should betray her<br/>
+innocence into those very snares she fears to fall<br/>
+into.'</p>
+<p>The very beginning of this paragraph gave her a conjecture it was meant
+for no other than herself; and the more she read, the more she grew
+convinced, of it.—It must be so, cryed she; every word,—every
+circumstance confirms it.—How unhappy am I that I cannot return so
+perfect an affection!—Instead of detesting my ingratitude, he only fears
+I should receive the punishment of it.—What man but Dorilaus would behave
+thus to the creature of his benevolence?—If I have any merits, do not I
+owe them to his goodness?—My brother and myself, two poor exposed and
+wretched foundlings, what but his bounty rear'd us to what we are?—Hard
+fate!—unlucky passion that drives me from his presence and protection.</p>
+<p>Yet, would she say again, if he has indeed subdued that passion;—if he
+resolves to think of me as before he entertained it; if I were certain he
+would receive me as a child, how great would be, the blessing!</p>
+<p>This confederation had so much effect on her, that she was half
+determined to comply with the advertisement; but when she remembered to
+have read that where love is sincere and violent, it requires a length of
+time to be erased, and that those possessed of it are incapable of knowing
+even their own strength, and, as he had said to her himself, <i>that there
+was no answering for the consequences,</i> she grew instantly of another
+mind, and thought that putting herself again into the power of such a
+passion was running too great a hazard.</p>
+<p>The continual agitations of her mind, joined to want of air, a quite
+different way of life, and perhaps fitting more closely to work than she
+had been accustomed, threw her at length into a kind of languishing
+indisposition, which, tho' it did not confine her to her bed, occasioned a
+loss of appetite, and frequent faintings, which were very alarming to her.
+Mrs. C——ge was extremely concerned to observe this change in her, and
+would have the opinion of her own physician, who said that she had
+symptoms of an approaching consumption, and that it was absolutely
+necessary she should be removed into the country for some time.</p>
+<p>Louisa readily complied with this advice, not only because she imagined
+it might be of service for the recovery of her health, but also as it
+furnished her with a pretence for leaving mrs. C——ge's house, to which
+she was determined to return no more as a boarder. The good woman with
+whom she had lodged at first recommended her to a friend of her's at
+Windsor, where she immediately went, and was very kindly received.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. IV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa becomes acquainted with a lady of quality, part of whose
+adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her</i>.</p>
+<p>Change of place affords but small relief to those whose distempers are
+in the mind: Louisa carried with her too many perplexing thoughts to be
+easily shook off; tho' the queen and court being then at Windsor, she had
+the opportunity of seeing a great many of the gay world pass daily by her
+window.—There also lodged in the same house with her a young widow of
+quality, who was visited by persons of the first rank; but as she was not
+of a condition to make one in any of these conversations, she reaped no
+other satisfaction from them than what the eye afforded.</p>
+<p>As she was not, however, of a temper to indulge melancholy, she made it
+her endeavour to banish, as much as possible, all ideas which were
+displeasing from her mind: to this end, a fine harpsicord happening to
+stand in the dining-room, whenever the lady was abroad, she went in and
+diverted herself with playing. She was one day entertaining the woman of
+the house with a tune, which she accompanied with her voice, when the lady
+returning sooner than was expected, and hearing the instrument before she
+came up stairs, would needs know who it was had been making use of it; for
+Louisa hurried out of the room before she came in: the landlady, as there
+was no occasion to disguise the truth, told her that it was a young woman,
+who not being very well, had come down into the country for air.</p>
+<p>She has had an excellent education, I am certain, said the lady, (who
+henceforward we shall call Melanthe) for in my life I never heard any body
+play or sing better:—I must be acquainted with her; on which the other
+said she would let her know the honour she intended her.</p>
+<p>That very evening, as great ladies no sooner think of any thing but
+they must have it performed, was Louisa sent for into her apartment; and
+her countenance and behaviour so well seconded the good impression her
+skill in music had begun, that Melanthe became charm'd with her, and from
+that time obliged her to come to her every morning; and whenever she was
+without company, made her dine and sup with her. Being curious to know her
+circumstances, Louisa made no scruple of acquainting her with the truth,
+only instead of relating how she had been exposed in her infancy, said,
+that having the misfortune to be deprived of her parents, it was her
+intention to wait on a lady, and till she heard of one who would accept
+her service, she had work'd at her needle.</p>
+<p>Melanthe then asked if she would live with her; to which the other
+gladly answering, she should think herself happy in such a lady; but you
+must go abroad then, said she, for I am weary of England, and am preparing
+to travel: as it is a route of pleasure only, I shall stay just as long as
+I find any thing new and entertaining in one place, then go to another
+till I am tired of that, and so on, I know not how long; for unless my
+mind alters very much, I shall not come back in some years.</p>
+<p>Louisa was perfectly transported to hear her say this; she had a great
+desire to see foreign parts, and thought she never could have a better
+opportunity: she expressed the pleasure she should take in attending her
+wherever she went with so much politeness and sincerity, that Melanthe
+told her, it should be her own fault if she ever quitted her, and withal
+assured her, she never would treat her in any other manner than a
+companion, and that tho' she would make her a yearly allowance for cloaths
+and card-money, yet she would expect no other service from her than
+fidelity to her secrets, and affection to her person.</p>
+<p>From the moment this agreement was made, the young Louisa regained her
+complection and her appetite; and being now initiated into the family of
+this lady, had no longer any care to take than to oblige her, a thing not
+difficult, Melanthe being good-natured, and strongly prepossessed in
+favour of her new friend, for so she vouchsafed to call her, and to use
+her accordingly.</p>
+<p>As a proof of it, she made her in a very short time the confident of
+her dearest secrets: they were one day sitting together, when accidentally
+some mention was made of the power of love. You are too young, Louisa,
+said Melanthe, to have experienced the wonderful effects of that passion
+in yourself, and therefore cannot be expected to have much compassion for
+what it can inflict on others.</p>
+<p>Indeed, madam, answered she, tho' I never have yet seen a man who gave
+me a moment's pain on that score, yet I believe there are no emotions
+whatever so strong as those of love, and that it is capable of influencing
+people of the best sense to things which in their nature they are most
+averse to.</p>
+<p>Well, my dear, resumed the other, since I find you have so just a
+notion of it, I will confide in your discretion so far as to let you know,
+that but for an ungrateful man, I had not looked on my native country as a
+desart, and resolved to seek a cure for my ill-treated and abused
+tenderness in foreign parts.</p>
+<p>My quality, continued she, I need not inform you of; you have doubtless
+heard that my family yields to few in antiquity, and that there is an
+estate belonging to it sufficient to support the dignity of its title;
+but my father having many children, could not give very great portions to
+the daughters: I was therefore disposed of, much against my inclinations,
+to a nobleman, whom my unlucky charms had so much captivated as to make
+him not only take me with no other dowry than my cloaths and jewels, but
+also to settle a large jointure upon me, which, he being dead, I at
+present enjoy. I cannot say that all the obligations he laid upon me could
+engage a reciprocal regard:—I behaved with indifference to him while
+living, and little lamented him when dead: not that I was prepossessed in
+favour of any other man;—my heart, entirely free, was reserved to be the
+conquest of the too charming perfidious Henricus, who arriving soon after
+my lord's decease, and bringing with him all the accomplishments which
+every different court he had visited could afford, join'd to the most
+enchanting person nature ever formed, soon made me know I was not that
+insensible creature I had thought myself.</p>
+<p>I happened to be at court when he came to kiss her majesty's hand on
+his return; and whether it was that my eyes testified too much the
+admiration this first sight of him struck me with, or that he really
+discovered something more attractive in me than any lady in the presence I
+know not, but he seemed to distinguish me in a particular manner, and I
+heard him say to my lord G——n in a whisper, that I was the finest woman
+he had ever seen; but what gave me more pleasure than even this praise,
+was an agreement I heard made between him and the same lord to go that
+evening to a raffle at mrs. C—rt-s—r's. I was one of those who had put
+in, tho' if I had not, I should certainly, have gone for a second sight of
+him, who when he went out of the drawing-room seemed to have left me but
+half myself.</p>
+<p>In fine, I went, and had there wanted any thing to have entirely
+vanquished me, my conqueror's manner of address had done it with a form
+less agreeable.—O Louisa, pursued she with a sigh, if you have never
+seen or heard the charming Henricus, you can have no notion of what is
+excellent in man; such flowing wit;—such softness in his voice and
+air;—but there is no describing what he is. He seemed all transport at
+meeting me there; among a number of ladies I alone engrossed him: he
+scarce spoke to any other; and being so fortunate to win the raffle,
+which was a fine inlaid India cabinet, instead of sending it to his own
+house, he privately ordered his servant to leave it at mine, lord G——n
+having, as he afterwards told me, informed him where I lived, and also all
+the particulars he wanted to know concerning me.</p>
+<p>I was prodigiously surprized when I came home and found the Cabinet,
+which my woman imagined I had won by its being brought thither. It was
+indeed a piece of gallantry I had no reason to expect from one so perfect
+a stranger to me; and this, joined with the many complaisant things he
+said to me at mrs. C—rt-f—r's, flattered my vanity enough to make me
+think he was no less charmed with me than I too plainly found I was with
+him. I slept little that night, and pretty early the next morning received
+a billet from him to this effect: <br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+'I thought the cabinet we raffled for was more<br/>
+properly the furniture of a lady's closet than<br/>
+mine, especially one who must daily receive a<br/>
+great number of such epistles as it was doubtless<br/>
+intended by the maker to contain: happy should<br/>
+I think myself if any thing of mine might find<br/>
+room among those which, for their wit and elegance,<br/>
+may be more worthy of preferring, tho'<br/>
+none can be for their sincerity more so than those<br/>
+which are dictated by the eternally devoted heart of<br/>
+<br/>
+HENRICUS.'</p>
+<p>You cannot imagine, my dear Louisa, how delighted I was with these few
+lines; I enclosed them indeed in the cabinet given me by the author of
+them, but laid up their meaning in my heart:—I was quite alert the whole
+day, but infinitely more so, when in the evening my admired Henricus made
+me a visit introduced by lord H——, who had been one of my late husband's
+particular friends, and had ever kept a good correspondence with me.</p>
+<p>Henricus took, not the least notice either of the cabinet or letter
+before him; and as I imagined he had his reasons for it, I too was silent
+on that head; he took the opportunity, however, while lord H—— was
+speaking to a young lady who happened to be with me, to ask permission to
+wait on me with the hope of being received on his own score as he was now
+on that of his friend. I told him that merit, such as his, was sufficient
+to recommend him any where; and, besides, I had an obligation to him which
+I ought to acknowledge. This was all either of us had time to say; but it
+was enough to make me convinced he desired a more particular conversation,
+and him, that it would not be unwelcome to me.</p>
+<p>Thus began an acquaintance equally fatal to my peace of mind and
+reputation; and having said that, it would be needless to repeat the
+circumstances of it, therefore shall only tell you I was so infatuated
+with my passion, that I never gave myself the trouble to examine into the
+nature of his pretensions, and lull'd with the vows he made of everlasting
+love, resented not that he forbore pressing to that ceremony which could
+alone ensure it:—yes, my Louisa, I will not wrong him so far as to say
+he deceived me in this point; for tho' he protested with the most solemn
+imprecations that he would never address any either woman than myself, yet
+he never once mentioned marriage to me.—Alass! he too well saw into my
+heart, and that all my faculties were too much his to be able to refuse
+him any thing:—even so it proved;—he triumphed over all in my power to
+yield;—nay, was so far subdued, that I neither regretted my loss, nor
+used any endeavours to conceal it;—vain of being his at any rate, I
+thought his love more glory to me than either fame or virtue; and while I
+was known to enjoy the one, despised whatever censures I incurred for
+parting with the other:—in the mall, the play-house, the ring, at Bath or
+Tunbridge, he was always with me; nor would any thing indeed have been a
+diversion to me had he been absent.</p>
+<p>For upwards of a year I had no reason to complain of his want of
+assiduity to me, tho' I have since heard even in that time he had other
+amours with women who carried them on with more prudence than I was
+mistress of; but I had afterwards a stabbing proof of his insincerity and
+inconstancy.</p>
+<p>Perceiving a great alteration in his behaviour, that he visited me less
+frequently, and when he came, the ardours he was accustomed to treat me
+with still more and more languid and enforced, I upbraided him in terms
+which, tho' they shewed more love than resentment, and had he retained any
+tolerable remains of tenderness for me, must have been rather obliging
+than the contrary, he affected to take extremely ill, and told me plainly,
+that nothing was so dear to him as his peace,—that he was not of a temper
+to endure reproaches, and that, if I desired the continuance of our amour,
+I must be satisfied with him as he was. These cool, and indeed insolent
+replies made me almost distracted; and beginning to suspect he had some
+new engagement, I talked to him in a manner as if I had been assured of
+it:—he, perhaps, imagining it was so, made no efforts to cure my
+jealousy, but behaved with so cruel an indifference as confirmed my
+apprehensions.</p>
+<p>Resolving to be convinced whether I really had any rival or not, I
+employed spies to observe where-ever he went, and to whom; but alass,
+there required little pains to acquire the intelligence I fought.—I was
+soon informed that he was every day with the daughter of a little
+mechanic;—that he made her very rich presents, procured a commission in
+the army for one of her brothers, and in fine, that he was as much devoted
+to her as a man of his inconstant temper could be to any woman.</p>
+<p>How severe a mortification was this to my pride! but it had this good
+attending it, that it very much abated my love:—to be abandoned for so
+mean a creature, and who had nothing but youth and a tolerable face to
+recommend her, shewed such a want of taste as well as gratitude, as
+rendered despicable in my eyes what had lately engrossed all my love and
+admiration.—The moment I received the information I sent for him;—and
+forcing my countenance to a serenity my heart was a stranger to, told him
+it was only to take a last leave of a person whom I had been so far
+mistaken in as to think deserving my affection: that I desired to see him
+once more, but having now seen my error, desired he would desist his
+visits for the future. He asked me with the same calmness he had lately
+behaved with, what whim I had got in my head now, I, who had before
+determined not to feed my rival's pride by shewing any jealousy of her,
+only replied, that as amours, such as ours had been, must have an end some
+time or other,—I thought none could be more proper than the present,
+because I believed both of us could do it without pain.</p>
+<p>Answer for yourself, madam, cried he with some emotion, for I could
+perceive my behaviour had a little flung his vanity; and resolute to give
+him in my turn all the mortification in my power, nay, said I with a
+disdainful toss of my head, I do not enquire into your sentiments,—it is
+sufficient mine are to break entirely off with you;—neither is it any
+concern to me how you may resent this alteration in my conduct, or dispose
+of yourself hereafter; but I once more assure you, with my usual
+frankness, that I now can see none of those perfections my foolish fancy
+formerly found in you, and cannot be complaisant enough to counterfeit a
+tenderness I neither feel nor think you worthy of.</p>
+<p>The surprize he was in kept him silent for some moments; but recovering
+himself as well as he could, he told me, that if the levity of my nature
+had made me cease to love him, he could not have expected endearments
+should be converted into affronts; that if I was determined to see him no
+more he must submit, and should endeavour to make himself as easy as he
+could under the misfortune.</p>
+<p>These last words were uttered with a kind of sneer, which was very
+provoking, however, I restrained my passion during the little time he
+stayed; but as soon as I found myself alone gave it vent in tears and
+exclamations,—since which I have been mere at peace within myself; for
+tho' I cannot say I hate him, I am now far from loving him, and hope
+that time and absence may bring me to a perfect indifference.</p>
+<p>Thus, Louisa, continued she, you see the beginning and end of an
+adventure which has made some noise in town, to be out of which I have
+taken a resolution to travel till the whole shall be forgotten, and I
+have entirely rooted out of my heart all manner of consideration for this
+ungrateful man.</p>
+<p>Louisa thanked her for the condescension me had made her in entrusting
+her with so important a secret, and said every thing she could in praise
+of the resolution she had taken to leave England for a time, not only
+because it was exactly conformable to her own desires, but also that she
+thought it so laudable in itself. Melanthe then assured her that she was
+not capable of changing her mind in this particular, and that her equipage
+was getting ready at London for that purpose, so that she believed they
+should embark in a few days. Louisa, on hearing this, said, that she must
+then provide herself with some things it would be necessary for her to
+have in order to appear in the station her ladyship was pleased to place
+her; but the other, who, as may be seen by her history, never preserved a
+medium in any thing, would not suffer her to be at the least expence on
+that account, but took the care of furnishing her with every thing on
+herself; and accordingly sent a man and horse to town directly to her
+mercer's, draper's, milliner's, and other tradesmen, with orders to send
+down silks, laces, hollands, and whatever else was requisite; which being
+brought, were put to be made fit for wearing by workwomen at Windsor; so
+that now our Louisa made as good a figure, and had as great a variety of
+habits as when under the guardianship of Dorilaus, and, to complete her
+happiness, this new benefactress grew every day more, and more delighted
+with her company.</p>
+<p>All being now prepared, they came to London, where they lay but one
+night before they took shipping for Helvoetsluys in Holland, where, being
+safely landed, they proceeded to Utrecht, and so to Aix-la-chappelle;
+there they stayed some weeks for the sake of the waters, air, and good
+company; and Louisa thought it so pleasant, that she would have been glad
+not to have removed for some time longer; but Melanthe was yet restless in
+her mind, and required frequent change of place. Here it was, however,
+that Louisa thought she might venture to write to Dorilaus, to ease him of
+that kind concern she doubted not but he was in for her welfare, by the
+advertisement already mentioned in the Gazette. The purport of her letter
+was as follows: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Ever Honoured Sir</i>,<br/>
+'Child of your bounty as I am, I flatter myself<br/>
+that, in spight of my enforc'd disobedience,<br/>
+it would be a trouble to you to hear I should<br/>
+do any thing unworthy of that education you were<br/>
+pleased to bestow on me: I therefore take the liberty<br/>
+of acquainting you, that heaven has raised<br/>
+me a protectress in a lady of quality with whom<br/>
+I now am, as you will see by the date of this, at<br/>
+Aix-la-chappelle. As all the favours I receive<br/>
+from her, or all the good that shall happen during<br/>
+my whole life is, and will be entirely owing<br/>
+to you as the fountain-head, it will be always my<br/>
+inclination, as well as duty, to pay you the tribute<br/>
+of grateful thanks.—Poor recompence,<br/>
+alas, for all you have done for me! yet those,<br/>
+with my incessant prayers to heaven, are all in<br/>
+the power of<br/>
+<i>Your most dutiful</i><br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.' </p>
+<p>She took no notice of the advertisement, not only as she could not be
+positive it related to herself, as also because she thought, if he were
+certain she had read it, he might resent her not answering it, as
+discovering a too great diffidence of his honour. She added, however, a
+postscript, entreating him to let her brother know, that whatever
+happened, he should have no reason to find fault with her conduct.</p>
+<p>After they left Aix-la-chappelle, they took bye roads to avoid the
+armies; yet notwithstanding all their care, they now and then met parties
+who were out on foraging, but as it happened, they were always under the
+conduct of officers who prevented any ill accident, so that our travellers
+met with no manner of interruption, but arrived safely at the magnificent
+city of Vienna, where was at that time an extreme gay court, affording
+every thing capable of diverting a much more settled melancholy than
+either Melanthe or her fair companion were possessed of.</p>
+<p>The arch-dutchesses, Mary Elizabeth, and Mary Anna Josepha, afterward
+queen of Portugal, had frequent balls and entertainments in their
+different drawing-rooms; to all which Melanthe, being a stranger and a
+woman of quality, was invited: she kept her promise with Louisa; and
+treating her as a young lady, whose friendship for her, and a desire of
+seeing the world had engaged to accompany her, she was received and
+respected as such; and by this means had an opportunity of shewing the
+skill she had in dancing, singing, music, and indeed all the
+accomplishments that a woman born and educated to the best expectations,
+is usually instructed in. As neither her lady nor herself understood the
+German language, and she spoke infinitely the best French, her
+conversation was the most agreeable, which, joined with a most engaging
+manner, and a peculiar sweetness in her voice, attracted all those
+civilities which the rank of the other demanded.</p>
+<p>Possessed of so many charms, it would have been strange if, in a city
+throng'd like Vienna with young noblemen, who were continually coming from
+all parts of the empire, she had lived without some who pretended to
+somewhat more than mere admiration; but her heart had not refused the
+worthy Dorilaus to become the conquest of a German; nor was it here she
+was ordained to experience those anxieties in herself, she could but
+imperfectly conceive by the description she had from others.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, however, whose sole aim was to drive all perplexing thoughts
+from her mind, encouraged a great number of visitors, so that her lodgings
+seemed a perfect theatre of gallantry; and Louisa having her share in all
+the amusements this lady prepared for the reception of those that came to
+see her, or were contrived for her entertainment by others, past her time
+in the most gay and agreeable manner imaginable, and by this means
+acquired the knowledge of almost the only thing she before was ignorant
+in, how to receive a multiplicity of company, yet to behave so is each
+should imagine themselves most welcome;—to seem perfectly open, without
+discovering any thing improper to be revealed;—to use all decent freedoms
+with the men, yet not encourage the least from them, and to seem to make a
+friend of every woman she conversed with, without putting truth in
+any;—and in fine, all the little policies which make up the art of what
+is called a polite address, and which is not to be attained without an
+acquaintance with the court and great world.</p>
+<p>This, I say, our amiable foundling was now well vers'd in, and
+practised among those who she found made a practice of it; but yet
+retained the same sincerity of mind, love of virtue, and detestation of
+vice, she brought with her from the house of Dorilaus:—neither was her
+youth too much dazled with the exterior splendor she beheld; and tho' she
+was well enough pleased with it, yet it did not in the least take her off
+from the duties of religion, or inspire her with any ambitious or aspiring
+wishes to become what the remembrance of what she was forbid any probable
+expectation of. She knew the present fashion of her life was not an
+assured settlement, and therefore set not her heart upon it. Few at her
+years would have had the like prudence, or in time armed themselves, as
+she did, against any change that might befal her.</p>
+<p>In this happy situation let us leave her for a while: the young Horatio
+claims his share of attention; and it is time to see what encouragement
+and success his martial ardor met with on the banks of the Danube.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. V.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio's reception by the officers of the army; his behaviour in
+the battle; his being taken prisoner by the French; his treatment among
+them, and many other particulars.</i></p>
+<p>The extreme graceful person of Horatio, his youth, handsome
+equipage, and the letters sent by Dorilaus to several of the principal
+officers in his favour, engaged him a reception answerable to his wishes:
+but none was of greater service than the recommendation he had to colonel
+Brindfield, who being in great favour with the duke of Marlborough, was
+highly respected by the whole army. This gentleman made him dine
+frequently with him, and testified the regard he had for Dorilaus, by
+doing all the good offices he could to a youth whom he perceived by his
+letter he had a great concern for. He not only introduced him to the
+acquaintance of many officers of condition, but took an opportunity of
+presenting him to the duke himself, giving at the same time his grace
+an account that he was a gentleman whose inclinations to arms, and the
+honour of serving under his grace, had made him renounce all other
+advantages for the hope of doing something worthy of his favour. The duke
+looked all the time he was speaking very attentively on the young Horatio,
+and finding something in his air that corroborated the colonel's
+description, was pleased to say, that he was charm'd with his early thirst
+after same; and then turning toward him, you will soon, pursued he, have
+an opportunity of seeing how the face of war looks, near at hand:—I can
+tell you, that you must not always expect smiles. No, my lord, replied he,
+without being at all daunted at the presence of so great a man; but where
+we love all countenances are agreeable.</p>
+<p>He arrived indeed opportunely to be a witness of the dangers of that
+glorious campaign which brought such shame to the French, such honour to
+the English, and such real advantages to the empire. Prince Eugene of
+Savoy, and prince Lewis of Baden were come to the duke's quarters, which
+were then at Mondesheim, to consult on proper operations; the result was,
+that the duke and prince Lewis should join armies, and command each day
+alternately, and that prince Eugene should head a separate army and repair
+towards Philipsburg, to defend the passage of the Rhine, the lines of
+Stolhoffen, and the country of Wirtenberg.</p>
+<p>The two armies joined at Westerstretton, thence proceeded by easy
+marches towards Donawert, between which and Scellenberg the enemy was
+encamped. Fatigued as they were, the duke made them pass over a little
+river and endeavour to force the intrenchments; which enterprize
+succeeded, notwithstanding all the disadvantages the confederate armies
+were in, and the others were obliged to retire with great precipitation,
+many of whom were drowned in endeavouring to pass the Danube.</p>
+<p>In this action was our young soldier unlisted, and had the glory to be
+signalized by two remarkable accidents; one was, that pressing among the
+foremost in this hazardous attempt, he had his hat taken off by a cannon
+ball; and the other was, that seeing a standard about to be taken by the
+enemy, the person who carried it happening to be kill'd, he ran among
+those who were carrying it away, and being seconded by some others,
+retrieved that badge of English honour; and as this was done in sight of
+the duke, he rode up to him directly and presented it to him. Take it for
+your pains, cried he, you have ventured hard, and well deserve the prize.
+There was no time for thanks; the duke, who was almost every where at
+once, was immediately gone where he found his presence necessary, and
+Horatio returned to take the place of the dead cornet, doubly animated by
+the encouragement he had received.</p>
+<p>This victory opening a way into the elector of Bavaria's dominions,
+that poor country was terribly ravaged, no less than 300 towns, villages
+and castles being utterly consumed by a detachment of horse and dragoons
+the duke sent for that purpose. Some old officers told Horatio that now
+would be the time to make his fortune if he went with these squadrons,
+there being many rich things which would fall to the share of the
+plunderers; to which he answered, that he came to fight for the honour of
+his country, and not to rob for its disgrace. This they laughed at, and
+endeavoured to make him sensible, that the taking away an enemy's treasure
+was to take away their strength; but all they could say was ineffectual;
+he was not to be perswaded out of what he thought reason and justice: and
+this conversation being afterward repeated to the duke, he smil'd and
+said, he was yet too young to know the value of money.</p>
+<p>After this, prince Lewis of Baden dividing from the duke, in order to
+undertake the siege of Ingoldstadt, our young cornet attended his grace to
+the relief of prince Eugene, who expected to be attacked by the united
+army of Bavarians and French, then encamped near Hockstadt.</p>
+<p>It would be needless to give any description of this famous battle, few
+of my readers but must be acquainted with it, so I shall only say, that
+among the number of those few prisoners the French had to boast of in
+attonement for so great a defeat, was the young brave Horatio, who fell to
+the lot of the baron de la Valiere, nephew to the marquis of Sille. This
+nobleman being extremely taken with his person and behaviour, treated him
+in the politest manner; and tho' he carried him with him into France,
+assured him, that it was more for the pleasure of entertaining him there
+than any other consideration. Horatio was not much afflicted at this
+misfortune, because it gave him an opportunity of seeing a country he had
+heard so much commended, and also to make himself master of a language,
+which, tho' he understood, he spoke but imperfectly.</p>
+<p>The baron was not only one of the most gallant, but also one of the
+best humoured men in the world; he spared nothing during the whole time
+they tarried in his quarters, nor in their journey to Paris, which might
+contribute to make his prisoner easy under his present circumstances; and
+among other things, often said to him, if you and some others have fallen
+under the common chance of war, you have yet the happiness of knowing your
+army in general has been victorious, and that, there are infinitely a
+greater number of ours who, against their will, must see England, than,
+there are of yours conducted into France.</p>
+<p>On their arrival, Horatio wrote an account to Dorilaus of all had
+happened to him, not doubting but he would use his interest to have him
+either mentioned when there should come an exchange of prisoners, or that
+he would randsom him himself; but receiving no answer, he concluded his
+letter, by some accident, had miscarried, and sent another, but that
+meeting the same fate as the former, he wrote a third, accompanied with
+one to his sister directed to the boarding-school, where he imagined she
+still was: to this last, after some time, he had the following return from
+the governess:<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+'A letter directed for miss Louisa coming to<br/>
+my house, I was in debate with myself<br/>
+what to do with it, that young lady having been<br/>
+gone from me last September, since which time<br/>
+I have never heard any thing of her:—at last I<br/>
+sent it to Dorilaus's country seat by a messenger,<br/>
+who brought it to me again, with intelligence<br/>
+that he was gone with some friends into the north<br/>
+of Ireland, and that it was probable they had<br/>
+taken miss with them:—I then thought proper<br/>
+to open it, believing she had no secrets I might<br/>
+not be entrusted with, and finding it came from<br/>
+you, could do no less than give you this information<br/>
+to prevent your being under any surprize<br/>
+for not receiving answers to your letters. I am<br/>
+sorry to find by yours that you have had such ill<br/>
+success in your first campaign; but would not<br/>
+have you be cast down, since you need not doubt<br/>
+but on the return of Dorilaus you will have remittances<br/>
+for your ransom, or whatever else you<br/>
+may have occasion for.'<br/>
+<i>I am</i>, SIR, <i>Your most humble and obedient Servant,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+A. TRAINWELL. </p>
+<p>This letter made him perfectly contented; he had no reason to question
+the continuance of Dorilaus's goodness to him, nor that he should attend
+this new proof of it any longer than the return of that gentleman to
+England should make him know the occasion he now had for it. He therefore
+had no anxious thoughts to interrupt the pleasures the place he was in
+afforded in such variety; he was every evening with the baron, either at
+court, the opera, the comedy, or some other gay scene of entertainment;
+was introduced to the best company; and his young heart, charm'd with the
+politeness and gallantry of that nation, and the little vanity to which a
+person of such early years is incident, being flattered with the
+complaisance he was treated with, gave him in a short time a very strong
+affection for them; but there was yet another and more powerful motive
+which rendered his captivity not only pleasing, but almost destroyed in
+him an inclination ever to see his native country again.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere had long been passionately in love with a young
+lady, who was one of the maids of honour to king James's queen: he went
+almost every day to St. Germains, in order to prosecute his addresses,
+and frequently took Horatio with him. The motive of his first introducing
+him to that court was, perhaps, the vanity of shewing him that no reverse
+of fate could make the French regardless of what was due to royalty, since
+the Chevalier St. George seem'd to want no requisite of majesty but the
+power; but he afterwards found the pleasure he took in those visits
+infinitely surpassed what he could have expected, and that his heart had
+an attachment, which made him no sooner quit that palace than he would ask
+with impatience when they should go thither again. The baron had a great
+deal of penetration; and as those who feel the power of love in themselves
+can easily perceive the progress it makes in others, a very few visits
+confirmed him that Horatio had found something there more attractive than
+all he could behold elsewhere: nor was he long at a loss to discover,
+among the number or beauties which composed the trains of the queen and
+princess, which of them it was that had laid his prisoner under a more
+lasting captivity than war had done.</p>
+<p>Princess Louisa Maria Teresa, daughter of the late king James, was then
+but in her thirteenth year; the ladies who attended her were all of them
+much of the same age; and to shew the respect the French had for this
+royal family, tho' in misfortunes, were also the daughters of persons
+whose birth and fortune might have done honour to the service of the
+greatest empress in the world; nor were any of them wanting in those
+perfections which attract the heart beyond the pomp of blood or titles;
+but she who had influenced that of our Horatio, was likewise in the
+opinion of those, who felt not her charms in the same degree he did,
+allowed to excel her fair companions in every captivating grace, and to
+yield in beauty to none but the princess herself, who was esteemed a
+Prodigy. This amiable lady was called Charlotta de Palfoy, only daughter
+to the baron of that name; and having from her most early years discovered
+a genius above what is ordinarily found in her sex, had been educated by
+her indulgent parents in such a manner, as nature left nothing for want of
+the improvements of art; yet did not all the accomplishments, she was
+mistress of give her the least air of haughtiness; on the contrary, there
+was a certain sweetness of temper in her which gave a double charm to
+every thing she said or did: she was all affability, courtesy and
+chearfulness; she could not therefore avoid treating so agreeable a
+stranger as Horatio with all imaginable marks of civility; but she had
+been a very small time acquainted with him before her liking ripened into
+a kind of tenderness little inferior to what he was possessed of for her;
+and tho' both were then too young to be able to judge of the nature of
+this growing inclination, yet they found they loved without knowing to
+what end.</p>
+<p>As both the Chevalier St. George and the princess his sister were
+instructed in the English language, and besides many of their court were
+natives of Great Britain, whose loyalty had made them follow the exil'd
+monarch, the French belonging to them had also an ambition to speak in the
+same dialect: mademoiselle Charlotta being but lately come among them had
+not yet attained the proper accent, any more than Horatio had that of the
+French; so they agreed that to improve each other in the different
+languages, he should always speak to her in French, and she should answer
+him in English. This succeeded not only for the purpose it was intended,
+but likewise drew on a greater intimacy between them than might otherwise
+have happened, at least in so short a time.</p>
+<p>The baron having a real friendship for Horatio, rejoiced to find he had
+so powerful an attachment to continue among them, and without taking any
+notice how far he saw into his sentiments, encouraged his visits at St.
+Germains all he could. Thus indulged in every thing he wished, he began
+insensibly to lose all desires of returning to England, and receiving no
+letters either from Dorilaus or his sister, was as it were weaned from
+that affection he had formerly bore to them, and in the room of that the
+new friendships he was every day contracting took up his mind.</p>
+<p>He was indeed used with so much love and respect by people in the most
+eminent stations, to whom the baron had introduced him, that it would have
+been ungrateful in him not to have returned it with the greatest
+good-will. Expressing one day some surprize at being so far forgotten by
+his friends in England, de la Valiere told him that he would not have him
+look on himself as any other than a guest in France, and that if he chose
+to quit that country, he should not only be at his liberty to return to
+England whenever he pleased, but also should be furnished with a sum
+sufficient for the expences of his journey; but added, that the offer he
+now made of depriving himself of so agreeable a companion was a piece of
+self-denial, than which there could not be a greater proof of a
+disinterested regard.</p>
+<p>Horatio replied in the manner this generosity demanded, and said, that
+if there was any thing irksome to him in France, it was only his inability
+of returning the favours he had received: believe me, sir, pursued he,
+were I master of a fortune sufficient to put me above the necessity of
+receiving the obligations I now do, it would not be in the power of all I
+left in England to prevail on me to return;—it is here, and in the
+society of that company I at present, thro' your means, enjoy, that I
+would wish to pass my whole life.</p>
+<p>The baron then told him he would find a way to make all things easy to
+him, and accordingly went the same day to monsieur the prince of Conti, to
+whom he gave such an advantageous description of the courage and
+accomplishments of the English cornet, and the inclination he had to stay
+among them, that his highness told the baron, that he might acquaint him
+from him, that if he were willing to serve under him he should have a
+commission; or, if he rather chose a civil employment, he would use his
+interest to procure him such a one as might afford both honour and
+profit.</p>
+<p>This the baron did not fail to communicate immediately to Horatio, who,
+charm'd with the generosity both of the one and the other, broke out into
+the utmost encomiums of that nation:—sure, said he, the French are a
+people born to inspire and instruct virtue and benevolence to all the
+kingdoms in the world! After the first raptures of his gratitude were
+over, being pressed by the baron to let him know which of the prince's
+offers he would chuse to accept; alas! replied he, this is a kind of an
+unfortunate dilemma I am in;—my inclinations are for the army, and it
+would be the height of my ambition to serve under such generals as the
+French; but it would be unnatural in me to draw my sword against the land
+which gave me being: O would to God! continued he, there were an
+opportunity for me to do it in any other cause! how gladly would I leave
+the best part of my blood to shew the sense I have of the generosity I
+have experienced.</p>
+<p>The baron had nothing to offer in opposition to a sentiment which he
+found had so much of honour in it, and therefore acquainted the prince
+that he chose to accept of his highness's favour in a civil employment; on
+which he was ordered to attend his levee the next day.</p>
+<p>His good friend accompanied him, and having presented him with the
+forms usual on such occasions, the prince received him very graciously,
+and was pleased to ask him several questions concerning the government of
+England at that time, the battle in which he had been taken, and many
+other things, to all which the young Horatio answered with so much
+discretion and politeness, as made the prince say to the baron, you have
+not flattered this gentleman in your description of him; for tho' I
+believe your friendship ready enough to give a just idea of him, yet, I
+allure you, his own behaviour is his best recommendation, and well
+entitles him to more than I find it in my power to do for him at present.
+I have been thinking for you, sir, continued he, turning to Horatio, and
+imagine that the employment I have found you will not be disagreeable to
+you:—one of the gentlemen of the bed-chamber to the Chevalier St. George
+being dead, there is a vacancy, which I will make interest shall be filled
+by no other than yourself;—you seem to be much of the same age with him,
+and I dare say he will be extremely pleased in the choice I make of you to
+be near him:—it is not indeed, added he, a place of so much advantage as
+I could wish, but there is a handsome pension annexed to it, which, with
+the honour, will, I believe, content you till something better presents
+itself.</p>
+<p>From the first mention the prince made of the post he had found for
+him, the heart of Horatio leap'd in his breast with an agitation he had
+never felt before: the thoughts of living at St. Germains in the same
+palace with mademoiselle Charlotta so transported him, that he scarce knew
+what he said; and the thanks he gave the prince were expressed with such
+hyperboles of gratitude, as made his highness think he had a higher idea
+of the employment than it indeed deserved; but the baron who knew the
+motive, and could not help smiling within himself, to prevent any other
+from suspecting it, however, told the prince, that it was not to be
+wondered at that he testified so high a satisfaction, since he was now to
+serve a family he had by nature a strong attachment to, and at the same
+time continue in a country he liked much better than his own.</p>
+<p>Horatio by this time having a little recovered himself, and sensible he
+had gone rather too far, seconded what the baron had said, and no more
+observations were made on it.</p>
+<p>That same evening, the prince having made it his request, was Horatio
+permitted to kiss the hand of the Chevalier St. George, and the ensuing
+day took possession of the apartment appropriated to the office bestowed
+on him.</p>
+<p>After having received the congratulations of a whole court, who
+testified a great deal of satisfaction in having him among them, and paid
+his compliments in a particular manner to mademoiselle Charlotta, he took
+abundance of pleasure in viewing all the apartments of a palace famous for
+the birth of one of the greatest monarchs of the age, and for being the
+asylum of the distrest royal family of England: when his attendance on his
+master gave him leisure, he frequently passed many hours together in a
+closet, where he was told the late king James used to retire every day to
+pray for the prosperity of that people who had abjur'd him. Young as
+Horatio was, and gay by nature, he sometimes loved to indulge the most
+serious meditations; and this place, as well as the condition of those he
+served, remonstrating to him the instability of all human greatness, he
+made this general reflection, that there was nothing truly valuable but
+virtue, because the owner could be deprived of that only by himself, and
+not by either the fraud or force of others.</p>
+<p>Indeed the behaviour of all the persons who composed this court could
+not but inspire those who saw it with sentiments of the nature I have
+described: the queen herself, tho' of too great a soul to shew any marks
+of repining at her fate, was never seen to smile: even the Chevalier St.
+George and princess had both of them a very serious air, which denoted
+they had reflections more befitting their condition than their years; and
+those about them being most of them persons who had left the greatest part
+of their fortunes as well as kindred either in England, Scotland or
+Ireland, had their own misfortunes as well as that of the royal cause to
+lament, and therefore could not but wear a dejection in their
+countenances: in fine, every thing he saw seem'd an emblem of fallen
+majesty, except on drawing-room nights, and then indeed the splendor of
+Marli and Versailles shone forth at St. Germains in the persons of those
+who came to pay their compliments, among whom were not only the Dauphine
+and all the princes of the blood, but even the grand monarch himself
+thought it not beneath his dignity to give this proof of his respect once
+or twice every week.</p>
+<p>This way of living, and the company he was now associated with, gave
+Horatio a manly way of thinking much sooner than otherwise perhaps he
+might have had, yet did not rob him of his vivacity: some of the queen's
+women, and the young ladies about the princess, particularly mademoiselle
+Charlotta, had a thousand sprightly entertainments among themselves, into
+which he, the baron de la Valiere, and some others who had attachments at
+that court, were always admitted.</p>
+<p>But now the time arrived in which he was to lose the society of that
+valuable friend; the campaign was ready to open, and he was obliged to
+head his troops and follow the marshals de Villars and Marsin into
+Flanders.</p>
+<p>All the conversation turning now on war, those martial inclinations,
+which love and the season of the year had occasioned to lye dormant for a
+while in the bosom of Horatio, now revived in him: he embraced the baron
+at taking leave of him with tears of affection and regret: how cruel is my
+fate, said he, to make me of a nation at enmity with yours, and that I can
+neither fight for you nor against you!</p>
+<p>Well, my dear Horatio, replied the other, France may hereafter have
+occasion to employ your arm where there are no ties of duty to restrain
+you:—in the mean time, continued he with a smile, softer engagements may
+employ your thoughts;—mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy is a conquest
+worth pursuing.</p>
+<p>This was the first hint the baron had ever given him of the discovery
+he had made of his sentiments, and it so much the more surprized him that
+he was told by another what he was not certain of himself:—he knew indeed
+the society of that young lady gave him infinite satisfaction, and that he
+was restless when absent from her; but these words, and the air with which
+they were spoke, shewed him more of his own heart than he had before
+examined into;—he blush'd excessively, and made no answer; on which, you
+have no cause, resumed the baron, to be asham'd of the passion you are
+inspired with, nor troubled at my discovery of it:—I assure you I have
+seen it a long time; and tho' you never honoured me with your confidence
+in that point, have taken all opportunities of doing justice to your merit
+in the conversations I have had with mademoiselle, who I had the
+satisfaction to find was not displeased with what I said upon that head;
+and I flatter myself with having a good account of the progress you have
+made at my return.</p>
+<p>I have too much experience of your friendship and goodness to me,
+replied Horatio, not to assure myself of your doing me all manner of kind
+offices;—I have indeed so great a regard for that lady you mention, that
+I know none of her sex who I so much wish should think well of me, yet is
+she utterly ignorant of the sentiments I have for her; and if I am
+possessed of that passion which they call love, which I protest I am not
+certain of myself, I have never made the least declaration that can give
+her room to imagine any such thing.</p>
+<p>The baron laughed heartily to hear him speak in this manner, and then
+told him there was no need of words to make known an inclination of that
+kind;—it was to be seen in every look and motion of the person inspired
+with it.—Mademoiselle de Palfoy, continued he, young as she is, I dare
+answer has penetration enough to see the conquest she has made, but has
+not yet learned artifice enough to conceal that she is at the same time
+subdued herself;—and if you would take the advice of a person who has
+some experience in these affairs, you will endeavour to engage her to a
+confession before too much observation on the behaviour of others to their
+lovers, shall teach her those imperious airs by which women frequently
+torment the heart that adores them, tho' their own perhaps in doing so
+feels an equal share.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who had seen something like this between the baron and his
+mistress, found a great deal of reason in what he said, and promised to be
+guided by him, especially as he had encouragement enough to hope, by all
+the treatment he had found from Charlotta, that a declaration of love from
+him would not offend her beyond forgiveness.</p>
+<p>From that time forward he therefore began to think in what manner he
+should first disclose the tender secret to the dear object of his
+affections: when absent from her he easily found words, but when present,
+that awe which is inseparable from a real passion struck him entirely
+dumb; and whenever he was about to open his mouth to utter what he
+intended, he had neither words nor voice; and tho' he saw her every day,
+was often alone with her, and had opportunity enough to have revealed
+himself, yet could he not get the better of his timidity for a great
+while, and perhaps should have been much longer under this cruel
+constraint, had not an accident favoured his wishes beyond what he could
+have hoped, or even imagined, and by shewing him part of what passed in
+her soul, emboldened him to unfold what his own laboured with on her
+account.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Describes the masquerade at the dutchess of Main's; the characters
+and intrigues of several persons of quality who were there; the odd
+behaviour of a lady in regard to Horatio, and Charlotta's sentiments upon
+it</i>.</p>
+<p>The dutchess of Main was one of the gayest and most gallant ladies at
+the court of Lewis XIV. she was for ever entertaining the nobility with
+balls, masquerades, or concerts; and as she was of the blood royal, and
+highly respected not only on that score, but by the distinguish'd favour
+of the king, the Chevalier St. George, and the princess his sister,
+frequently honoured her assemblies with their presence.</p>
+<p>To divert those ladies whose husbands were gone to Flanders, as she
+said, she now proposed a masquerade; and the day being fixed, it was the
+sole business of the young and gay to prepare habits such as were most
+suitable to their inclinations, or, as they thought, would be most
+advantageous to their persons.</p>
+<p>The Chevalier St. George was dressed in a rich Grecian habit of
+sky-coloured velvet embroidered with large silver stars: the top of his
+cap was encompassed with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, saphirs, amythists,
+and other precious stones of various colours, set in rows in the exact
+form of a rainbow: a light robe of crimson taffaty, fringed with silver,
+was fastened by a knot of jewels on his left shoulder, and crossed his
+back to the right side, where it was tucked into a belt of the finest
+oriental pearls, and thence hung down and trail'd a little on the ground:
+in fine, there was nothing that exceeded the magnificence and eloquence
+of his appearance, or was in any measure equal to it in the whole
+assembly, except that of the princess Louisa his sister.</p>
+<p>She would needs go as a Diana, and obliged all her ladies to be habited
+like nymphs: no idea of this goddess, inspired either by the painter or
+the poet's art, can in any degree come up to that which the fight of this
+amiable princess gave every beholder. Conformable to the character she
+assumed, she had a large crescent of diamonds on her head, which had no
+other covering than a great quantity of the finest hair in the world,
+partly braided with pearls and emeralds, and partly flowing in ringlets
+down on her alabaster neck: her garments were silver tissue, white and
+shining as the moon on a clear frosty night; and being buttoned up a
+little at the bottom as for the conveniency of the chace, shewed great
+part of her fine proportioned ankle. In her hand she held an ivory bow,
+and an arrow of the same headed with gold; and on her shoulder was fixed a
+quiver curiously wrought and beset with jewels: her attendants, which were
+six in number, had their habits green, but made in the same fashion of the
+princess's, with bows and arrows in their hands, and quivers at their
+backs: all of them had their hair turned up under a caul of silver net,
+from which hung little tossels of pearl intermixed with diamonds.</p>
+<p>Next to this fair troop the duchess of Main herself attracted the
+attention of the assembly: she was habited like an Indian queen, with
+robes composed of feathers so artfully placed, that they represented a
+thousand different kind of birds and beasts, which, as she moved, seemed
+to have motion in themselves: on her head she had a lofty plume supported
+by a cap, and richly ornamented with precious stones; as were all her
+garments wherever the propriety of the fashion of them would give leave.</p>
+<p>The young mademoiselle de Bourbon, in the habit of a sea-nymph, and
+mademoiselle de Blois, in that of a Minerva, ornamented and decorated
+according to their several characters, had also their share of admiration.</p>
+<p>Nor did the marchionesses of Vallois and Lucerne, both in the garb of
+shepherdesses, serve as mere foils to those I have mentioned: there was
+something; even in this plainness that shewed the elegance of the wearer's
+taste.</p>
+<p>The prince of Conde, the dukes of Berry, Vendosine and Chartres, the
+young marquis de Montbausine, the counts de Chenille, de Ranbeau, and the
+baron de Roche, had all of them habits extremely rich and well fancied, as
+were many others of whom it would be too tedious to make particular
+mention, and be likewise digressive to the matter I take upon me to
+relate; I shall therefore only say, that there was not one person of
+either sex, who did not endeavour to set themselves forth to all possible
+advantage.</p>
+<p>Those gentlemen who attended the Chevalier St. George were at their
+liberty to appear in what habit they pleased: Horatio knowing his charming
+Charlotta was a nymph of the forest, chose to be a hunter, and was
+accordingly dressed in green, with a little cap on his head and a javelin
+in his hand, as Acteon is generally portrayed; and indeed had he studied
+what garb would have become him best, he could not have fixed on one more
+proper for that purpose.</p>
+<p>Fine madamoiselle de Sanserre at least thought him more worthy her
+regard than any of those, the richness of whose habits made her know were
+of a higher rank:—she took particular notice of him, made him dance with
+her, and said a thousand gallant things to him; but he could very well
+have dispensed with hearing them, and found little satisfaction in any
+thing that deprived him of entertaining his dear Charlotta, who he easily
+knew by her air and shape from all those who were habited in the same
+manner. As he doubted not, however, but the person who had thus singled
+him out was a lady of condition, he returned her civilities with a
+politeness which was natural to him, but which had received great
+improvements since his arrival in France. She was no less charm'd with his
+conversation than she had been with his person, and impatient to know who
+he was, made an offer of shewing him her face on condition he would pluck
+off his mask at the same time: but this he would by no means agree to,
+because still hoping to get rid of her, and have some discourse with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, he did not think proper he should be known by any
+other, who might perhaps make remarks on his behaviour; and therefore
+excused himself from complying with her desires in terms as obliging as
+the circumstance would admit.</p>
+<p>As she had displayed all her talents of wit and eloquence to engage
+him, she looked on the little curiosity she had been able to inspire in
+him as an affront, and vexed she had thrown away so much time on an
+insensible, as she called him, flung hastily away, and joining with some
+other company, left him at liberty to pursue his inclinations.</p>
+<p>This lady had been a royal mistress, but not having the good fortune to
+be made a mother, was not honoured with any title; her being forsaken by
+the king, who indeed had few amours of any long continuance, did not in
+the least abate the good opinion she had of her beauty; and to fee herself
+followed by a train of lovers being the supreme pleasure of her life, she
+spared nothing to attract and engage: whenever she failed in this
+expectation it was a severe mortification; but her vanity and the gaity of
+her humour would not suffer it to prey upon her spirits for above a
+minute, and she diverted the shock of a rebuff in one place by new
+attempts to conquer in another; therefore it is probable thought no more
+of Horatio after she had turned from him.</p>
+<p>He now carefully avoided all that might interrupt his wishes, and
+seeing Charlotta had just broke off some conversation she had been
+entertained with, made what haste he could to prevent her from being
+re-engaged:—She immediately knew him; and as their mutual innocence made
+them perfectly free in expressing themselves to each other, she told him
+she was glad he was come; that they would keep together the whole
+masquerade, provided he did not think it a confinement, to prevent her
+being persecuted with the impertinencies of some people there, who she
+found thought a masque a kind of sanction for saying any thing.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but Horatio gave her all the assurances that
+words could form, of feeling the most perfect pleasure in her society, and
+that he should not; without the extremest reluctance, find himself obliged
+to abandon the happiness she offered him to any other person in the
+company: to recompence this complaisance, as she called it, she gave him a
+brief detail of the characters of as many as she knew thro' their habits;
+and in doing this discovered a sweet impartiality and love of truth, which
+was no small addition to her other charms. She blamed the baroness de
+Guiche for not being able to return the affection of a husband who had
+married her with an inconsiderable fortune, and had since she had been his
+wife pardoned a thousand miscarriages in her conduct:—she praised the
+virtue of mademoiselle de Mareau, who being at fifteen the bride of a man
+of seventy, behaved to him with a tenderness, and exact conformity to his
+will, which, if owing alone to duty, was not to be distinguished from
+inclination:—she expressed a concern that the gaity of the dutchess of
+Vendome gave the world any room for censure, and highly condemned the duke
+for being guilty of actions which had made her sometimes give into parties
+of pleasure by way of retaliation:—but she was more severe on the
+indecorum of mademoiselle de Renville, who being known for the mistress of
+the duke of Chartres, and that she was supported by him, was fond of
+appearing in all public places. She could not help testifying a good deal
+of surprize, that any woman who pretended to virtue would admit her into
+their assemblies: not but she said the case of that lady was greatly to be
+pitied, who being high-born and bred had been reduced to the lowest
+exigencies of life, and from which to be relieved she had only consented
+to assist the looser pleasures of the amorous duke; but, added she, I
+would not methinks have her seem to glory in her shame, and in a manner of
+life which her misfortunes alone can render excusable; nor can I approve
+of the indulgence her mistaken triumph meets with, because it may not only
+destroy all notions of regret in herself for what her necessities oblige
+her to, but also make others, who have not the same pretence, find a kind
+of sanction for their own errors:—vice, said she, ought at lead to blush,
+and hide itself as much as possible from view, left by being tolerated in
+public it should become a fashion.</p>
+<p>Horatio was so much taken up with admiring the justness of her
+sentiments, that awed by them, as it were, he could not yet, tho' mask'd,
+make any discovery of his own: she was about entering into a discourse
+with him concerning the first motives which had rendered some persons she
+pointed out to him unhappy in the marriage-state, which perhaps might have
+given him an opportunity for explaining himself, when a lady richly
+dress'd came up to them, and giving Horatio a sudden pluck by the arm;
+villain! cried she. Madam, returned he, strongly amazed. Is the trifling
+conversation of Sanserre, resumed she, or this little creature to be
+preferred to a woman of that quality you have dared to abuse?—but this
+night has convinced her of your perfidy:—she sends you this, continued
+she, giving him a slap over the face as hard as she could, and be assured
+it is the last present you will ever receive from her.</p>
+<p>She had no sooner uttered these words than she flew quick as lightning
+out of the room, leaving Horatio in such a consternation both at what she
+said and did, as deprived him even of the thought of following her, or
+using any means to solve this riddle.—He was in a deep musing when
+mademoiselle Charlotta, possessed that moment with a passion she till then
+was ignorant of, said to him; I find, Horatio, you have wonderfully
+improved the little time you have been in France, to gain you a
+multiplicity of mistresses; but I am sorry my inadvertency in talking to a
+man so doubly pre-engaged, should cause me to be reckoned among the
+number. In speaking this she turned away with a confusion which was
+visible in her air, and the scarlet colour with which her neck was dyed.
+By heaven! cried he, in the utmost agitation, I know so little the meaning
+of what I have just now heard, that it seems rather a dream than a
+reality. O the deceiver! returned she, a little slackening her pace, will
+you pretend to have given no occasion for the reproach you have
+received:—great must have been your professions to draw on you a
+resentment such as I have been witness of;—but I shall take care to give
+the lady, whoever she is, no farther room for jealousy on my account; and
+as for mademoiselle Sanserre, I believe the stock of reputation she has
+will not suffer much from the addition of one more favourite to the number
+the world has already given her.</p>
+<p>The oddness of this adventure, and the vexation he was in to find
+Charlotta seemed incensed against him for a crime of which he knew himself
+so perfectly innocent, destroyed at once all the considerations his
+timidity had inspired, and aiming only to be cleared in her opinion;—if
+there be faith in man, cried he, I know nothing of what I am accused: no
+woman but your charming self ever had the power to give me an uneasy
+moment;—it is you alone have taught me what it is to love, and as I never
+felt, I never pretended to that passion for any other.</p>
+<p>Me! replied Charlotta, extremely confused; If it were so, you take a
+strange time and method to declare it in;—but I know of no concern I have
+in your amours, your gratitude, or your perfidy; and you had better follow
+and endeavour to appease your enraged mistress, than lose your time on me
+in vain excuses.</p>
+<p>Ah mademoiselle! cried he, how unjust and cruel are you, and how severe
+my fate, which not content with the despair my real unworthiness of
+adoring you has plunged me in, but also adds to it an imputation of crimes
+my soul most detests:—I never heard even the name of the lady you
+mentioned till your lips pronounced it; and if it be she I danced with, I
+protest I never saw her face: and as for the meaning of the other lady's
+treatment of me, it must certainly be occasioned by some mistake, having
+offered nothing to any of the sex that could justify such a proceeding.</p>
+<p>All the time he was speaking Charlotta was endeavouring to compose
+herself.—The hurry of spirits she had been in at the apprehensions of
+Horatio's having any amorous engagements, shewing her how much interest
+she took in him, made her blush at having discovered herself to him so
+far; and tho' she could not be any more tranquil, yet she thought she
+would for the future be more prudent; to this end she now affected to
+laugh at the dilemma into which she told him he had brought himself, by
+making addresses in two places at the same time, and advised him in a gay
+manner to be more circumspect.</p>
+<p>Thus was this beautiful lady, by her jealousy, convinced of her
+sensibility; and as difficult as Horatio found it to remove the one, he
+found his consolation in the discovery of the other.</p>
+<p>From the time he had been disengaged from mademoiselle Sanferre, he had
+retired with Charlotta to one corner of the room; and the greatest part of
+the company being in a grand dance, the others were taken up in looking on
+them, so that our young lovers had the opportunity of talking to each
+other without being taken much notice of; but several of the masquers now
+drawing nearer that way, prevented Horatio from saying any thing farther
+at that time, either to clear his innocence or prosecute his passion; and
+Charlotta, glad to avoid all discourse on a subject she thought herself
+but ill prepared to answer, joined some ladies, with whom she stayed till
+the ball was near concluded.</p>
+<p>Horatio after this withdrew to a window, and flickered behind a large
+damask curtain, threw himself on a sopha he found there, and ruminated at
+full on the adventure had happened to him, in which he found a mixture of
+joy and discontent: the behaviour of Charlotta assured him he was not
+indifferent to her; but then the thoughts that he appeared in her eyes as
+ungrateful, inconstant and perfidious, made him tremble, left the idea of
+what he seemed to be should utterly erase that favourable one she had
+entertained of what he truly was. By what means he should prove his
+sincerity he knew not; and as he was utterly unpracticed in the affairs of
+love, lamented the absence of his good friend the baron de la Valiere, who
+he thought might have been, able to give him same advice, how to proceed.</p>
+<p>He remained buried, as it were, in these cogitations, when a lady
+plucked back the curtain which screen'd him, and without seeing any one
+was there, threw herself on the sopha almost in his lap.—Oh heaven!
+cried she, perceiving what she had done, and immediately rose; but Horatio
+starting up, would not suffer her to quit the place, telling her, that
+since she chose it, it was his business to retire, and leave her to
+indulge whatever meditations had brought her thither. She thank'd him in a
+voice which, by its trembling, testified her mind was in some very great
+disorder; and added, if your good nature, said she, be equal to your
+complaisance, you will do me the favour to desire a lady, dressed in pink
+and silver, with a white sattin scarf cross her shoulder, to come here
+directly:—you cannot, continued she, be mistaken in the person, because
+there is no other in the same habit. Tho' Horatio was very loth to engage
+himself in the lady's affairs, fearing to give a second umbrage to
+mademoiselle Charlotta, yet he knew not how to excuse granting so small a
+request, and therefore assured her of his compliance.</p>
+<p>Accordingly he sent his eyes in quest, which soon pointed out to him
+the person whom she had described: having delivered his message to her;
+Horatio! cried she, somewhat astonished, how came you employed in this
+errand? he knew her voice, and that it was mademoiselle de Coigney, the
+mistress of his friend the baron, on which he immediately told her how the
+lady had surprized him: she laughed heartily, and said no more but left
+him, and went to the window he had directed.</p>
+<p>For a long time he sought in vain for an opportunity of speaking to the
+object of his affections: she was still engaged either in dancing or in
+different parties; and as his eyes continually followed her, he easily
+perceived she purposely avoided him. A magnificent collation being
+prepared in a great drawing-room next to that in which the company were,
+they all went in to partake of it. The entertainment was served up on two
+large tables; but as every one was mask'd, and the vizards so contriv'd,
+that those who wore them could eat without plucking them off, they sat
+down promiscuously without ceremony or any distinction of degrees, none
+being obliged to know another in these disguises; only the attendants of
+the Chevalier St. George, and the princess Louisa, took care not to place
+themselves at the same they were, so by this means sat together; but a
+great number of others being mingled with them, no particular conversation
+could be expected.</p>
+<p>Supper being over, they all returned to the ballroom; and Horatio
+having contrived it so as to get next Charlotta, she could not refuse the
+offer he made her of his hand to lead her in; but as he was about saying
+something to her in a low voice, a man came hastily to him, and taking him
+a little on one side, presented him with a letter, and then retired with
+so much precipitation, that Horatio could neither ask from whom it came,
+nor well discern what sort of person it was that gave it him. He put it
+however in his pocket, designing to read it at more leisure, his curiosity
+for the contents not equalling his desire of entertaining mademoiselle
+Charlotta; but that young lady, whose jealousy received new fewel from
+this object, had slipt away before he could turn from the man, and had
+already mixed with a cluster of both sexes who had got into the room
+before them.</p>
+<p>Horatio finding all attempts to speak to her that night would be
+ineffectual, went back into the drawing-room where they supped, and where
+but few people remaining he might examine the letter with more freedom. He
+saw it had no superscription; but supposing the inside would give him some
+satisfaction, he broke it open hastily and found in it these lines.<br/>
+<br/>
+'Whether false or faithful still are you dear to<br/>
+me; and if I am in the least so to you,<br/>
+the treatment you received will be pardoned for<br/>
+the sake of the occasion:—I own that at a<br/>
+place where you might have been as particular as<br/>
+you pleased with me without suspicion, it enraged<br/>
+me to see you waste those precious moments<br/>
+with others which I flattered myself to have solely<br/>
+engrossed;—besides, the character of mademoiselle<br/>
+Sanserre is so well known, that I thought<br/>
+you would have avoided her of all others; yet<br/>
+had she forced herself upon you, sure you might<br/>
+afterwards have come to me, when I had given<br/>
+you so particular a description of the habit I<br/>
+should wear; but instead of making any excuse<br/>
+for a first transgression, you hurry to a second,<br/>
+and pay all your devoirs to another, whom indeed<br/>
+I knew not at that time, but am since informed<br/>
+she is one of the maids of honour to princess<br/>
+Louisa.—I must confess I had not resolution<br/>
+enough to suffer so cruel an injustice, and being<br/>
+too much overcome by my passion to resent it as<br/>
+I ought, I left the place, and desired our friend to<br/>
+do it for me.—I find she somewhat exceeded<br/>
+her commission, but you must forgive her, since<br/>
+it was her love for me:—I am now at her<br/>
+house, where I impatiently expect you—The<br/>
+baron is secure for some hours;—those we may<br/>
+pass together, if you still think there is any thing<br/>
+worth quitting the masquerade for, to be found<br/>
+in the arms of<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>, &amp;c,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> If you now fail, no excuse hereafter shall<br/>
+ever plead your pardon.'</p>
+<p>This letter confirmed Horatio in the belief he had before, that he had
+been mistaken by the lady for some favorite person; but who the lady was,
+he was as much in the dark as ever; nor would he have given himself any
+trouble concerning it, if he had not hoped by that means to have retrieved
+the good opinion of Charlotta. He was however impatient to shew her the
+letter, as he doubted not but she had seen it delivered to him; but with
+all his assiduity he could not obtain one word in private during the
+masquerade; and when it was broke up, which was not till near morning, and
+they returned to St. Germains, it was impossible, because he knew she must
+be in the princess's chamber, as he in that of the Chevalier St. George:
+he was therefore obliged to content himself with the hope that the next
+day would be more favourable.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>An explanation of the foregoing adventure, with a continuation of
+the intrigues of some French ladies, and the policy of mademoiselle
+Coigney in regard of her brother</i>.</p>
+<p>It cannot be supposed that either of our young lovers enjoyed much true
+repose that night, tho' the fatigue of the dance might naturally require
+it: the one did but just know herself a lover before she felt the worst
+torments of that passion in her jealousy; and the other having been
+compelled, as it were, to lay open his heart in order to convince his
+charmer it had no object but herself in view, knew not but his temerity in
+doing so might be imputed to him as no less a crime than that from which
+he attempted to be cleared: each had their different anxieties; but those
+of Horatio were the least severe, because thro' all the indignation of his
+mistress he saw marks of an affection, which he could not have flattered
+himself with if they had not been evident; and conscious of his innocence,
+doubted not but time would both explain that and reconcile the offended
+fair:—whereas Charlotta was far from being able to assure herself of her
+lover's fidelity: she could not conceive how, in the compass of one night,
+such a plurality of mistakes should happen to the same man, and trembled
+at the reflection that this man, who possibly was the falsest of his sex,
+should not only have made an impression on her heart, but also, by the
+concern she had so unwarily expressed, have reason to triumph in his
+conquest:—ashamed therefore of what she felt, and determined to make use
+of her utmost efforts to conceal it for the future, if not to conquer it,
+she thought to shun all occasions of seeing or speaking to this dangerous
+invader of her peace was the first step she ought to take; but how little
+is a heart, possessed of the passion her's was, capable of judging for
+itself, or maintaining any resolutions in prejudice of the darling
+object!—she had no sooner set it down as a rule to avoid him, than she
+began to wish for his presence, and contented herself with thinking she
+desired it only out of curiosity to hear what he would say, and to have an
+opportunity, by a rallying manner of behaviour, to destroy whatever
+conjectures he might have form'd in favour of his passion; but all this
+time she deceived herself, and in reality only longed for an interview
+with him, in hopes he would find means to justify himself. Horatio, who
+was impatient to attempt it, seeing her at a distance walking on the
+terrass with no other company than mademoiselle de Coigney, went
+immediately to join them, thinking that if the presence of this lady might
+be a bar to many things he wanted to say to Charlotta, it would be of
+service to him another way, by preventing her from making him any
+reproaches.</p>
+<p>As soon as he came near, I owe you little thanks, Horatio, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney laughing, for the interruption you gave me last
+night. In the multiplicity of those reflections which his own affairs had
+occasioned him, he had entirely forgot the lady in the window; and
+imagining some other accident had happened which should make him appear
+yet more guilty in the eyes of Charlotta, ask'd her, with some impatience,
+what she meant? don't you remember, answered she, that you brought me a
+message from a certain lady? Yes, madam, said he, and in that, thought I
+did no more than my duty obliged me to, as she seemed under some
+perplexity, which I supposed she was impatient to acquaint you with.</p>
+<p>You judged rightly, indeed, resumed de Coigney; but had you known how
+gladly I would have dispensed with the honour of her confidence, I dare
+answer you would have spared it me:—I'll tell you, my dear, pursued she
+turning to Charlotta, for the secrets of this lady are pretty universal;
+and I am certain that I have heard from no less than fifty different
+persons, that very affair she was in such a hurry to inform me of last
+night: you must needs have heard of the amour between madam la Boissy and
+the chevalier de Mourenbeau? frequently, replied Charlotta; her ridiculous
+jealousies of him have long been the jest of the whole court; and I never
+go to Marli or Versailles, but I am told of some new instance of it. And
+yet to relate a long story of her passion, and his ingratitude, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney, was I last night dragged into a dark corner, and
+deprived for an hour together of all the pleasures of the masquerade: it
+seems she had over-heard some gallant things between him and the daughter
+of the count de Granpree, and that gave her the occasion of running into a
+recapitulation of all the professions of constancy he had made to herself,
+the proofs she had given him of a too easy belief, and the little regard
+he now paid to her peace of mind.—I was obliged to affect a pity for her
+misfortunes, and gratitude for the trust she reposed in me, tho' neither
+the one or the other merited in reality any thing but contempt.</p>
+<p>One often suffers a good deal from one's complaisance this way, said
+Charlotta; and for my part there is nothing I would more carefully avoid
+than secrets of this nature; but you have not told me how far Horatio was
+accessary to bringing you into this trouble.</p>
+<p>He them said that he would save mademoiselle de Coigney the labour, and
+immediately related how the lady they were speaking of threw herself upon
+him, and afterwards enjoined him to deliver the message. But, added he, I
+think last night was one of the most unfortunate ones I have ever known,
+since, with all the care I could take, I was continually prevented by
+other people's concerns from prosecuting my own.—I was not only insulted
+and reproached for being mistaken for some other person, for it could
+happen no other way, but also soon after received a letter no less
+mysterious to me than the blow, which doubtless came from the same
+quarter: as there is no name subscribed, or if there were, I should look
+on myself as under no obligation of secrecy, I will beg leave to
+communicate it to you, ladies.</p>
+<p>With these words he took the letter out of his pocket and held it open
+between them: Charlotta conquered her impatience so far as not to take it
+out of his hand; but mademoiselle Coigney snatched it hastily, imagining
+she knew the hand; nor was she deceived in her conjecture: she had no
+sooner read it slightly over;—see here, mademoiselle Charlotta, said she,
+a new proof of madam de Olonne's folly, and my brother's continued
+attachment to that vile woman.</p>
+<p>Charlotta then looked over the letter with a satisfaction that was
+visible in her countenance; and as soon as she had done, then it is plain,
+said she, that Horatio was mistaken for monsieur de Coigney: but how it
+happened so is what I cannot conceive.</p>
+<p>I can easily solve the riddle, replied mademoiselle de Coigney: I heard
+my brother say he intended to wear a hunting dress at the masquerade; but
+being disappointed of going to it, by his most christian majesty sending
+for him to Marli, I suppose too suddenly for him to give notice of his
+enforced absence to madame d'Olonne, and Horatio by chance appearing in
+the same habit which he had doubtless told her he would be in, and their
+sizes being pretty much alike, she might very well be deceived, and also
+have a seeming reason for the jealousy and rage her letter testifies.</p>
+<p>Nothing could exceed the joy Horatio felt at this unexpected
+eclaircisement of his innocence, which was also doubled by the pleasure
+which, in spight of all her endeavours to restrain it, he saw sparkle in
+the eyes of his beloved Charlotta. Neither of them, however, had any
+opportunity of expressing their sentiments at this time, de Coigney
+continuing with them till dinner, when they all separated to go to their
+respective tables.</p>
+<p>The next day afforded what in this he had sought in vain:—he found her
+alone in her own apartment; and having broke the ice, was now grown bold
+enough to declare his passion, with all the embellishments necessary to
+render it successful: mademoiselle Charlotta knew very well what became
+the decorum of her sex, and was too nice an observer of it not to behave
+with all the reserve imaginable on this occasion. All the freedom she had
+been accustomed to treat him with, while ignorant of his or her own
+inclination, was now banished from her words and actions, and she gravely
+told him, that if he were in earnest, it was utterly improper for her to
+receive any professions of that kind without the approbation of monsieur
+de Palfoy her father; and as there was but very little probability of his
+granting it, on many considerations, she would wish him to quell in its
+infancy an affection which might otherwise be attended with misfortunes to
+them both.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that in this she spoke no more than what her
+reason suggested: she knew very well that her father had much higher
+expectations in view for her, and that on the least suspicion of her
+entertaining a foreigner, and one who seemed to have no other dependance
+than that of favour, she should be immediately removed from St. Germains;
+so that it behoved her to be very circumspect in any encouragement she
+gave him: but tho' she spoke to him in this manner, it was not, as her
+actions afterwards fully demonstrated, that she really designed what she
+said should make him desist his pretensions, but that he should be careful
+how he let any one into the secret of his heart. She foresaw little
+prospect of their love ever being crown'd with success, yet found too much
+pleasure in indulging it to be able to wish an extinction of it, either in
+him or herself; and in spight of all the distance she assumed, he easily
+perceived that whatever difficulties he should have to struggle with in
+the prosecution of his addresses, they would not be owing to her cruelty.
+They were both of them too young to attend much to consequences; and as
+securing the affections of each other was what each equally aimed at,
+neither of them reflected how terrible a separation would be, and how
+great the likelihood that it must happen they knew not how soon.</p>
+<p>As the remonstrances of mademoiselle Charlotta had all the effect she
+intended them for on Horatio, he so well commanding himself that no person
+in the world, except the baron de la Valiere, who was absent, had the
+least intimation of his passion, they might probably have lived a long
+time together in the contentment they now enjoyed, had not an accident, of
+which neither of them could have any notion, put a stop to it.</p>
+<p>Horatio thought no more on the affair of madame de Olonne and monsieur
+de Coigney, from the time he had been cleared of having any concern with
+that lady, yet was that night's adventure productive of what he looked
+upon as the greatest misfortune could befal him. But to make this matter
+conspicuous to the reader, it is necessary to give a brief detail of the
+circumstances that led to it.</p>
+<p>This lady, who was wife to the baron de Olonne, was one of the most
+beautiful, and most vicious women in the kingdom; she entertained a great
+number of lovers; but there was none more attached to her, or more loved
+by her than young monsieur de Coigney: he had for a long time maintained a
+criminal correspondence with her, to the great trouble of all his friends,
+who endeavoured all they could, but in vain, to wean him from her: he had
+lately a recounter with one of her former lovers, which had like to have
+cost him his life; and it was with great difficulty, and as much as the
+relations on both sides could do, by representing to the king that they
+were set upon by street-robbers, that they avoided the punishment the law
+inflicts on duelists. De Coigney was but just recovered of the hurts he
+had received, when, so far from resolving to quit the occasion of them, he
+made an appointment to meet her at the masquerade:—they had described to
+each other the habit they intended to wear, when, as he was preparing for
+the rendezvous, an express came from the king, commanding his immediate
+attendance at Marli, where the court then was: this was occasioned by old
+monsieur de Coigney, who having, by some spies he kept about his son,
+received intelligence of this assignation, had no other way to disappoint
+it than by the royal authority, which he easily procured, as he was very
+much in favour with his majesty; and had laid the matter before him.</p>
+<p>The person who came with the mandate had orders not to quit the
+presence of young Coigney, but bring him directly; by which means he was
+deprived of all opportunity of sending his excuses to madame de Olonne,
+who coming to the masquerade big with expectation of seeing her favourite
+lover, and finding him, as she imagined, engaged with others, and wholly
+regardless of herself, was seized with the most violent jealousy; and not
+able to continue in a place where she had received so manifest a slight,
+desired mademoiselle de Freville, her confidant and companion, to upbraid
+him with his inconstancy; which request she complied with in the manner
+already related, and which gave mademoiselle Charlotta such matter of
+disquiet.</p>
+<p>The amorous madame de Olonne, however, having given vent to the first
+transports of her fury, could not hinder those of a softer nature from
+returning with the same violence as ever; and for the gratification of
+them wrote that letter which Horatio received, and occasioned afterward
+the explanation of the whole affair, which explanation he then thought
+fortunate for him; but by a whimsical effect of chance it proved utterly
+the reverse.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney, who had the most tender affection for her
+brother, and passionately wished to make him break off all engagements
+with a woman of madame de Olonne's character, and who might possibly bring
+him under many inconveniencies, took the hint which mademoiselle Charlotta
+unthinkingly gave, by telling her how she had been affronted on his
+account by de Freville, of putting something into his head which might
+probably succeed better than all the attempts had hitherto been practised
+to make him quit his present criminal amour.</p>
+<p>The first time she saw mademoiselle de Freville, she told her as a
+great secret that her brother was fallen in love with mademoiselle
+Charlotta, and that she believed it would be a match, for he had already
+engaged friends to sollicit monsieur de Palfoy on that score. This she knew
+would be carried directly to madame de Olonne, and doubted not but it
+would so increase her jealous rage, that all he could say in his defence
+would pass for nothing: she also added, that he was in the masquerade that
+night, tho' for some private reasons best known to himself, said she, he
+had ordered his people to give out he was gone to Marli.</p>
+<p>De Freville, who was the creature of madame de Olonne, no sooner
+received this intelligence than she flew with it to her, as mademoiselle
+de Coigney had imagined: neither did it fail of the desired effect. When
+he came to visit her, as he did on the moment of his return from Marli,
+the violence of her temper made her break out into such reproaches and
+exclamations, as a man had need be very much in love to endure: he
+endeavoured to make her sensible of her error by a thousand protestations;
+but the more he talk'd of Marli and the king's command, the more she told
+him of Charlotta and the masquerade; and almost distracted to find he
+still persisted in denying he was there, or had ever made any tender
+professions to that lady, she proceeded to such extravagancies as he, who
+knew himself innocent, could not forbear replying to in terms which were
+far from being softening:—in fine, they quarrelled to a very high degree,
+and some company happening to come in at the same time, hindered either of
+them from saying any thing which might palliate the resentment of the
+other.</p>
+<p>Before they had an opportunity of meeting again, mademoiselle de
+Coigney saw her brother; and artfully introducing some discourse of
+mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy, began to run into the utmost encomiums on
+that lady's beauty, virtue, wit, and sweetness of disposition, and at last
+added, that she should think herself happy in having her for a sister.
+Young de Coigney listened attentively to what she said: he had often been
+in her company, but being prepossessed with his passion for madame de
+Olonne, her charms had not that effect on him as now that the behaviour of
+the other had very much lessened his esteem of her.</p>
+<p>He replied, that he knew no lady more deserving than the person she
+mentioned, and should be glad if, by her interest, he might have
+permission to visit her: this was all mademoiselle de Coigney wanted; she
+doubted not but if he were once engaged in an honourable passion, it would
+entirely cure him of all regard for madame de Olonne, and as she knew he
+had a good share of understanding, thought that when he should come to a
+more near acquaintance with the perfections of Charlotta, the loose airs
+of the other would appear in their true colours, and become as odious to
+him as once they had been infatuating.</p>
+<p>Finding him so well inclined to her purpose, she took upon herself the
+care of introducing him, as it was indeed easy to do, considering the
+intimacy there was between her and Charlotta. That young lady received him
+as the brother of a person she extremely loved; and little suspecting the
+design on which he came, treated him with a gaity which heightened her
+charms, and at the same time flattered his hopes, that there was something
+in his person not disagreeable to her.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney took care that every visit he made to Charlotta
+should be reported to de Olonne, which still heightening her resentment,
+together with his little assiduity to moderate it, made a total breach
+between them, to the great satisfaction of all his friends in general.
+Those of them whom mademoiselle had acquainted with the stratagem by which
+she brought it about, praised her wit and address; and as they knew the
+family and fortune of mademoiselle Charlotta, encouraged her to do every
+thing in her power for turning that into reality which she at first had
+made use of only as a feint for the reclaiming of her brother.</p>
+<p>The young gentleman himself stood in need of no remonstrances of the
+advantages he might propose by a marriage with Charlotta; her beauty and
+the charms of her conversation had made a conquest of his heart far more
+complete than any prospect of interest could have done: not only de
+Olonne, but the whole sex would now in vain have endeavoured to attract
+the least regard from him, and as he was naturally vain, he thought
+nothing but Charlotta de Palfoy worthy of him.</p>
+<p>The success he had been accustomed to meet in his love affairs,
+emboldened him to declare himself much sooner than he would have done had
+he followed the advice of his sister, and too soon to be received in a
+manner agreeable to his wishes by a lady of Charlotta's modesty and
+delicacy, even had she not been prepossessed in favour of another; for
+tho' she respected him as the brother of her friend, that consideration
+was too weak to hinder her from letting him know how displeasing his
+pretensions were to her, and that if he persisted in them she should be
+obliged to refuse seeing him any more. He was now sensible of his error,
+and endeavoured to excuse it by the violence of his passion, which he said
+would not suffer him to conceal what he felt; but as, when a heart is
+truly devoted to one object, the sound of love from any other mouth is
+harsh and disagreeable; the more he aimed to vindicate himself in this
+point the more guilty he became, and all he said served only to increase
+her dislike.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney after this took upon her to intercede for her
+brother's passion, but with as ill success as he had done; and being one
+day more importunate than usual, mademoiselle Charlotta grew in so ill a
+humour, that she told her she was determined to give no encouragement to
+the amorous addresses of any man, unless commanded to do so by those who
+had the power of disposing her; but, added she, I would not have monsieur
+de Coigney make any efforts that way; for were he to gain the consent of
+my father, which I am far from believing he would do, I have so little
+inclination to give him those returns of affection he may expect, that in
+such a case I should venture being guilty of disobedience.</p>
+<p>Is there any thing so odious then, madam, in the person of my brother?
+said de Coigney with a tone that shewed how much she was picqued. I never
+gave myself the trouble of examining into the merits either of his person
+or behaviour, replied she; but to deal sincerely with you, I have a
+perfect aversion to the thoughts of changing my condition, and if you
+desire the friendship between us should subsist, you will never mention
+any thing of it to me;—and as to your brother, when I am convinced I
+shall receive no farther persecutions from him of the nature I have lately
+had, he may depend on my treating him with my former regard; till then,
+you will do me a favour, and him a service, to desire he would refrain his
+visits.</p>
+<p>These expressions may be thought little conformable to the natural
+politeness of the French, or to that sweetness of disposition which
+mademoiselle Charlotta testified on other occasions; but she found herself
+so incessantly pressed both by the brother and the sister, and that all
+the denials she had given in a different manner had been without effect,
+therefore was obliged to assume a harshness, which was far from being
+natural to her, in order to prevent consequences which she had too much
+reason to apprehend.</p>
+<p>Horatio soon discovered he had a rival in monsieur de Coigney; and tho'
+he easily saw by Charlotta's behaviour that he had nothing to fear on this
+score, yet the interruptions he received from the addresses of this new
+lover, made him little able to endure his presence, and he sometimes could
+not refrain himself from saying such things as, had not the other been too
+much buoyed up with his vanity to take them as meant to himself, must have
+occasioned a quarrel.</p>
+<p>She made use of all the power she had over him in order to curb the
+impetuosity of his temper whenever he met this disturber of his wishes;
+but his jealousy would frequently get the better of the respect he paid
+her, and they never were together in her apartment without filling her
+with mortal fears. She therefore found it absolutely necessary to get rid
+of an adorer she hated, in order to hinder one she loved from doing any
+thing which might deprive her of him; and tho' she had a real friendship
+for mademoiselle de Coigney, yet she chose rather to break with her, than
+run the hazard she was continually exposed to by her brother's
+indefatigable pursuit.</p>
+<p>But all her precaution was of no effect, as well as, the enforced
+patience of Horatio: what most she trembled at now fell upon her, and by a
+means she had least thought of. Madame de Olonne, full of malice at being
+forsaken by her lover, and soon informed by whose charms her misfortune
+was occasioned, got a person to represent to the baron de Palfoy the
+conquest his daughter had made in such terms, as made him imagine she
+encouraged his passion. Neither the character, family, or fortune of de
+Coigney being equal to what he thought Charlotta might deserve, made him
+very uneasy at this report; and as he looked on her not having acquainted
+him with his pretensions as an indication of her having an affection for
+him; he resolved to put a stop to the progress of it at once, which could
+be done no way so effectually as by removing her from St. Germains.</p>
+<p>To this end the careful Father came himself to that court, and waited
+on the princess: he told her highness, that being in an ill state of
+health and obliged to keep much at home, Charlotta must exchange the
+honour she enjoyed in her service, for the observance of her duty to a
+parent, who was now incapable of any other pleasures than her society.</p>
+<p>The princess, to whom she was extremely dear, could not think of
+parting with her without an extreme concern, but after the reasons he had
+given for desiring it, would offer nothing for detaining her, on which she
+was immediately called in, and made acquainted with this sudden alteration
+in her affairs.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The parting of Horatio and mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains.</i></p>
+<p>A peal of thunder bursting over her head, could not have been more
+alarming to mademoiselle Charlotta than the news she now heard; but her
+father commanded, the princess had consented, and there was no remedy to
+be hoped: she took leave of her royal mistress with a shower of unfeigned
+tears, after which she retired to her apartment to prepare for quitting
+it, while the baron went to pay his compliments to some of the gentlemen
+at that court.</p>
+<p>To be removed in this sudden manner she could impute to no other motive
+than that the love of Horatio had by some accident been betrayed to her
+father, (for she never so much as thought of monsieur de Coigney;) and the
+thoughts of being separated from him was so dreadful, that till this fatal
+moment she knew not how dear he was to her:—to add to the calamity of
+her condition, he was that morning gone a hunting with the Chevalier St.
+George, and she had not even the opportunity of giving him the consolation
+of knowing she bore at least an equal part in the grief this unexpected
+accident must occasion. Mademoiselle de Coigney came to take leave of her,
+as did all the ladies of the queen's train as well as the princess's, and
+expressed the utmost concern for losing so agreeable a companion; but
+these ceremonies were tedious to her, and as she could not see Horatio,
+she dispatched every thing with as much expedition as her secret
+discontent would permit her to do, and then sent to let her father know
+she was ready to attend him.</p>
+<p>When they were in the coach both observed a profound silence for some
+time; at last, I hope Charlotta, said the baron, you have no extraordinary
+reasons to be troubled at leaving St. Germains? none, my lord, answered
+she, of so much moment to me as the fears my sudden removal is owing to
+your being dissatisfied with my conduct. I flatter myself, resumed he, you
+are conscious of nothing which should authorize such an apprehension:—you
+have had an education which ought to inform you that persons of your sex
+and age are never to act in any material point of themselves:—but courts
+are places where this lesson is seldom practised; and tho' the virtues of
+the English queen and princess are a shining example to all about them,
+yet I am of opinion that innocence is safest in retirement.</p>
+<p>As she was fully convinced in her mind that it was only owing to some
+jealousy of her behaviour that she had been taken from St. Germains, and
+also that it was on the score of Horatio, she would not enquire too deeply
+for fear of giving her father an opportunity of entering into
+examinations, which she thought she could not answer without either
+injuring the truth, or avowing what would not only have incensed him to a
+very great degree, but also put him upon measures which would destroy even
+the most distant hope of ever seeing Horatio more. He, on his side, would
+not acquaint her with the sentiments which the above-mentioned suggestions
+had inspired him with, thinking he should discover more of the truth by
+keeping a watchful eye over her behaviour without seeming to do so.</p>
+<p>During the time of their little journey from the palace of St. Germains
+to Paris, where monsieur the baron de Palfoy ordinarily resided, nothing
+farther was discoursed on: but when they arrived, and mademoiselle
+Charlotta had opportunity of reflecting on this sudden turn, she gave a
+loose to all the anxieties it occasioned:—she was not only snatch'd from
+the presence of what was most dear to her on earth, but as she had no
+confidante, nor durst make any, was also without any means either of
+conveying a letter to him, or receiving the least intelligence from him.</p>
+<p>She had been in Paris but a very little time before she perceived the
+baron artfully kept her in the most severe restraint under a shew of
+liberty; pretending to her, as he had done to the princess, that he was
+not well enough to go abroad, he would stay at home whole days together,
+and oblige her to read, or play to him on the spinnet, which frequently
+she did with an aking heart; and when she went out, it was always in
+company with a relation whom he kept at his house on purpose, as he said,
+as a companion to divert her, but in reality to be a spy over all her
+actions; and had orders to dive, by all the insinuations she was mistress
+of, into her very thoughts. All this mademoiselle Charlotta had
+penetration enough to discover, and, spite of the discontent she laboured
+under, so well concealed what they endeavoured to find out, that all the
+traps laid for her were wholly ineffectual.</p>
+<p>But in what manner did the enamoured Horatio support so cruel an
+affliction! he was no sooner informed at his return from hunting of what
+had happened, than he was seized with agonies, which, in the force he did
+himself to conceal, threw him into a fever that confined him to his bed
+for several days: as his passion for mademoiselle Charlotta was not in the
+least suspected, every body imputed his disorder to be occasioned by
+having over-heated himself in the chace, and during his indisposition was
+visited by all the court:—the Chevalier St. George sent two or three
+times a day to enquire of the health of his countryman, as he was pleased
+to call him, and gave him many other tokens how greatly he was in his
+favour; but all the civilities he received were not capable of lessening
+the anguish of his mind, which kept his body so weak, that tho' youth and
+an excellent constitution threw off the fever in a short time, yet he was
+unable to quit his chamber in near three weeks, and when he did, appeared
+so wan and so dejected, that he seemed no more than the shadow of the once
+gay and sprightly Horatio.</p>
+<p>But while he was thus sinking under the burden of his griefs, and
+despairing ever to see his adorable Charlotta any more, fate was providing
+for him a relief as unexpected as the cause of his present unhappy
+situation had been, and to the very same persons also was he indebted both
+for the one and the other.</p>
+<p>Young monsieur de Coigney was not less alarmed than Horatio at the
+removal of Charlotta, tho' it had not the same effect on him; he was
+continually teizing his sister to make her a visit and repeat her
+intercessions in his behalf; but she had received such tart answers on
+that score, that she was very unwilling to undertake the embassy: however,
+she complied at last, and was received by mademoiselle Charlotta in the
+most obliging manner, but had not the least opportunity of executing her
+commission, that lady having a good deal of company with her, whom she
+purposely detained to avoid entering into any particular conversation with
+her, till the hour in which she knew her attendance on the queen would
+oblige her to take leave.</p>
+<p>The baron de Palfoy was at that time abroad; but when he was informed
+who had been there, was a little disturbed that the sister of de Coigney
+endeavoured still to keep up her intimacy with his daughter, not doubting
+but she had either brought some letter or message from him, as he was
+fully persuaded in his mind that there was a mutual affection between
+them; but he took no notice of it as yet, thinking that probably she might
+make a second visit, and that then he should be better able to judge of
+the motive.</p>
+<p>In the mean time the father of monsieur de Coigney being informed of
+these proceedings, thought it beneath his son to carry on a clandestine
+courtship; and the great share he possessed of the royal favour, he having
+been instrumental in gaining some point in the parliament of Paris,
+rendered him vain enough to imagine his alliance would not be refused,
+tho' there was a superiority both of birth and fortune on the side of
+monsieur the baron de Palfoy.</p>
+<p>In a perfect confidence of succeeding in his request, he went to his
+house, and, after some little preparation, proposed a match between his
+son and mademoiselle de Palfoy. The baron was not at all surprized at what
+he said, because he expected, if the young people were kept asunder, an
+offer would be made of this kind; and after hearing calmly all he had to
+say, in order to induce him to give his consent, he told him, that he was
+very sorry he had asked a thing which it was impossible to grant, because
+he had already determined to dispose otherwise of his daughter. Monsieur
+de Coigney then asked to whom. I know not as yet, replied the other, but
+when I said I had determined to dispose her otherways, I only meant to one
+who is of blood at least equal to her own, and who has never, by any
+public debaucheries, rendered himself contemptible to the discreet part of
+mankind.</p>
+<p>De Coigney knew not how either to put up or resent this affront; he
+knew very well that his son had behaved so as to give cause for it, yet
+thought he had other perfections which might over-balance what, by a
+partial indulgence, he looked upon only as the follies of youth; and as
+for the reflection on his family, he told the other, that whatever he was
+he owed to the merit of his ancestors, not his own, and that he doubted
+not but his son would one day raise his name equal to that of Palfoy. In
+fine, the pride of the one, and the vanity of the other, occasioned a
+contest between them, which might have furnished matter for a scene in a
+comedy had any poet been witness of it: the result of it was that they
+agreed in this to be mutually dissatisfied with each other, never to
+converse together any more, and to forbid all communication between their
+families.</p>
+<p>The baron went immediately to his daughter's chamber, and having
+ordered her maid, who was then doing something about her, to leave the
+room, I have wondered, Charlotta, said he, with a countenance that was far
+from betraying the secret vexation of his mind, that you have never, since
+your coming to Paris, expressed the least desire of making a visit at St.
+Germains, tho' the duty you owe a princess, who seems to have a very great
+affection for you, might well have excused any impatience you might have
+testified on that score; besides, you owe a visit to mademoiselle de
+Coigney.</p>
+<p>The princess merits doubtless all the respect I am able to pay her,
+answered she; but, my lord, as it was your pleasure to remove me from that
+palace, I waited till your command should licence my return; as for
+mademoiselle de Coigney, the intimacy between us will excuse those
+ceremonies which are of little weight where there is a real friendship.</p>
+<p>These words confirming all the baron's suspicions, he thought there was
+no need of farther dissimulation, and the long-conceived indignation burst
+out in looks more furious than the trembling Charlotta had ever seen in
+him before.—Yes, degenerate girl! said he, I have but too plain proofs of
+the friendship in which you have linked yourself with the family of the de
+Coigney's;—but tell me, continued he, how dare you engage yourself so far
+without my knowledge? could you ever hope I would consent to an alliance
+with de Coigney?</p>
+<p>De Coigney! cried she, much more assured than she had been before the
+mention of that name, heaven forbid you should have such a thought!</p>
+<p>The resolution and disdain with which she spoke these words a little
+surprized him: what, cried he, have you not encouraged the addresses of
+young de Coigney, and even proceeded so far as to make his father imagine
+there required no more than to ask my consent to a marriage between you!</p>
+<p>How much courage does innocence inspire? Charlotta, of late so timid
+and alarmed while she thought Horatio was in question, was now all
+calmness and composure, when she found de Coigney the person for whom she
+had been suspected. She confessed to her father, with the most settled
+brow, that he had indeed made some offers of an affection for her, but
+said, she had given him such answers, as nothing but the height of
+arrogance and folly could interpret to his advantage; and then, on the
+baron's commanding her, acquainted him with every particular that had
+passed between that young gentleman, his sister, and herself, touching the
+affair she was accused of.</p>
+<p>She was so minute in every circumstance, answered with such readiness
+to all the questions he asked of her, and seemed so perfectly at ease, as
+indeed she was, that the baron could no longer have any doubts of her
+sincerity, and was sorry he had taken her so abruptly from St. Germains:
+he now told her, that she was at liberty to visit there as frequently as
+she pleased, only, as he had been affronted by old monsieur de Coigney, as
+well as to silence all future reports concerning the young gentleman, he
+expected she would break off all acquaintance with mademoiselle. She
+assured him of her obedience in this point, and added, that she could do
+it without any difficulty; for tho' she was a lady who had many good
+qualities, and one for whom she once had a friendship, yet the taking upon
+her to forward her brother's designs had occasioned a strangeness between
+them, which had already more than half anticipated his commands.</p>
+<p>Monsieur the baron de Palfoy was now as well satisfied with his
+daughter as he had lately been the reverse, and she was allowed once more
+all those innocent liberties which the French ladies, above those of any
+other nation in the world, enjoy.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but that the first use she made of liberty was
+to go to St. Germains: she had heard from mademoiselle de Coigney, when
+she came to visit her, that Horatio had been very much indisposed, and at
+that time was not quite recovered, and was impatient to give him all the
+consolation that the sight of her could afford; but fearing she should not
+have an opportunity of speaking to him in private, she wrote a letter,
+containing a full recital of the reason which had induced her father to
+take her from St. Germains, and the happy mistake he had been in
+concerning de Coigney; concluding with letting him know he might sometimes
+visit her at Paris as an indifferent acquaintance, not the least suspicion
+being entertained of him, and the baron now in so good a humour with her,
+that it would not be easy for any one to make him give credit to any
+informations to her prejudice. The whole was dictated by a spirit of
+tenderness, which, tho' it did not plainly confess an affection, implied
+every thing an honourable lover could either expect or hope.</p>
+<p>On her arrival at St. Germains, where there was an extreme full court
+to congratulate the princess Louisa, on the great victories lately gained
+by Charles XII. the brave king of Sweeden, to whom she had been some time
+contracted, she passed directly to her highness's apartment; and the
+Chevalier St. George being then with her, those of his Gentlemen who had
+attended him thither, were waiting in the antichamber: among them was
+Horatio: the alteration of his countenance on sight of her, after this
+absence, was too visible not to have been remarked, had not all present
+been too busy in paying their compliments to her, to take any notice of
+it. He was one of the last that approached, being willing to recover the
+confusion he felt himself in, lest it should have an effect on his voice
+in speaking to her. She, more prepared, received his salute with the same
+gay civility she did the others, but at the same instant slipped the
+letter she had brought with her into his hand.</p>
+<p>Any one who is in the least acquainted with the power of love, may
+guess the transports of Horatio at this condescension; but, impatient to
+know the dear contents, he went out of the room as soon as he found he
+could do it without being observed, and having perused this obliging
+billet, found in it a sufficient cordial to revive that long languishment
+his spirit had been in.</p>
+<p>At his return he found her engaged in conversation with several
+gentlemen and ladies: he mingled in the company, but could expect no other
+satisfaction from it than being near his dear Charlotta, and hearing her
+speak. The Chevalier St. George soon after came out, and he was obliged
+with the rest of his train to quit the place, which at present contained
+the object of his wishes. She went in immediately after to the princess,
+so he saw her no more that day at St. Germains.</p>
+<p>All that now employed his thoughts was a pretence to visit her at her
+father's house; for tho' she had told him in her letter that he might come
+as an ordinary acquaintance, yet knowing that the continuance of their
+conversation depended wholly on the secrecy of it, he was willing to avoid
+giving even the most distant occasions of suspicion.</p>
+<p>Fortune, hitherto favourable to his desires, now presented him with one
+more ample than any thing his own invention could have supplied him with:
+happening to be at Paris in the company of some friends, with whom he
+stayed later than ordinary, he was hurrying thro' the streets in order to
+go to the inn where his servant and horses waited for him, when he heard
+the clashing of swords at some distance from him: guided by his
+generosity, he flew to the place where the noise directed him, and saw by
+the lights, which hang out very thick in that city, one person defending
+himself against three who pressed very hard upon him, and had got him down
+just as Horatio arrived to his relief: he ran among the assaillants; and
+either the greatness of his courage, or the belief that others would come
+to his assistance, threw them into such a consternation, that they all
+sought their safety in their flight, while the person they had attacked
+got up again and thanked his deliverer, without whose timely aid, he said,
+he could have expected nothing but death: those who set upon him being
+robbers, and, as he perceived by their behaviour, desperate wretches, who
+were for securing themselves by taking the lives, as well as money, of
+those who were too weak to resist them: he pointed to a dead body on the
+ground, who he told Horatio was his servant, and had been killed in his
+defence.</p>
+<p>But how transported was our young lover when, he found that the person
+to whom he had done so signal a piece of service, was the father of his
+mistress. As he perceived he had some wounds, tho' they proved but slight,
+he compleated the obligation he had began to confer, by supporting him
+under the arm till he got home, where the baron made him enter with him,
+and would have prevailed with him to stay all night; but Horatio told him
+he could not well dispense with being absent from his post; that it was
+highly proper he should return to St. Germains that night late as it was,
+but would do himself the honour of waiting on him the next day to enquire
+after the state of the wounds he had received.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta was gone to bed; but being rouzed by the
+accident, no sooner was informed by the surgeons, who were immediately
+sent for, that there was nothing dangerous in the hurts her father had
+received, than she blessed heaven for making Horatio the instrument of his
+preservation. The sense the baron seemed to have of this obligation, and
+the praises he bestowed on the gallant manner in which the young gentleman
+came to his relief, made her almost ready to flatter herself that fate
+interested itself in behalf of their love; and indeed monsieur the baron,
+notwithstanding the haughtiness of his nature, had the most just notions
+of gratitude; and to testify it to Horatio, would have refused him scarce
+any thing except his daughter. But however that should happen, she still
+found more and more excuses for indulging the inclinations she had for
+him; and tho' she yet had never given him any such assurances, yet she
+resolved in her own mind, to live only for him.</p>
+<p>The baron being obliged to keep his bed for several days, Horatio had a
+pretence for repeating his visits to him during this time of his
+confinement, and afterwards went often by invitation; the other, besides
+the obligation he had to him, finding something extremely pleasing in his
+conversation, to which (not to take from Horatio's merits) the
+obsequiousness he found no difficulty in himself to behave with towards a
+Man of his age, his quality, and above all, the father of Charlotta, not a
+little contributed.</p>
+<p>The lovers had now frequent opportunities of entertaining each other
+both at Paris and St. Germains: nor were any of those demonstrations which
+virtue and innocence permitted, wanting between them, to render them as
+perfectly easy as people can possibly be, who have yet something to desire,
+and much to fear. But as smooth as now their fortune seemed, they knew not
+how soon a storm might rise, and give a sudden interruption to that
+felicity they enjoyed.—The charms of Charlotta were every day making new
+conquests; and among the number of those who pretended to admire her, how
+probable was it that some one might be thought worthy by her father, and
+she be compelled to receive the addresses of a rival. These were
+reflections too natural not to occur to them both, and whenever they did,
+could not fail of embittering those sweets the certainty of a mutual
+affection had otherwise afforded.</p>
+<p>They had now no trouble from monsieur de Coigney; his father, in order
+to make him forget a hopeless passion, had found an employment for him
+which obliged him to go many leagues from Paris; and once the conversation
+already mentioned at the baron's, his sister and mademoiselle Charlotta,
+by command of their respective parents, as well as their own inclinations,
+broke off all correspondence, nor even spoke to each other, unless when
+happening to meet in a visit, there was no avoiding it; and then it was in
+such a distant manner, and with so much indifference, that none would have
+imagined they ever had been intimate friends and companions.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. IX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>A second separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>The season of the year now having put an end to the campaign, and the
+French, as well as confederate armies, being retired into their winter
+quarters, the baron de la Valiere, who had always a special permission
+from the general, returned to Paris: Horatio promised himself much
+satisfaction in the renewed society of this friend, and no sooner heard he
+was on the road than he went to meet him. The baron, charm'd with this
+proof of his affection and respect, received him as a brother, and there
+was little less freedom used between them.</p>
+<p>After the mutual testimonies and good-will were over de la Valiere
+began to ask him concerning mademoiselle Charlotta; on which Horatio
+acquainted him with her being removed from St. Germains, and the occasion
+of it, not omitting the arrogance with which old monsieur de Coigney had
+behaved to her father, and the resentment now between the families.</p>
+<p>Well, said the baron, but I hope you have been more successful, at
+least with the young lady: I will never more trust the intelligence of
+eyes, if yours did not hold a very tender intercourse; and I protest to
+you, my dear Horatio, that amidst all the toils and dangers of war, my
+thoughts were often at St. Germains, not envying, but congratulating the
+pleasures you enjoyed in the conversation of that amiable lady.</p>
+<p>I doubt not, replied Horatio with a smile, but we had you with us at a
+place which contained mademoiselle de Coigney; and I am of opinion too she
+was no less frequently in the camp with you; for in spite of all the
+reserve she affected while you were present, she never heard the bare
+mention of your name without emotions, which were very visible in her
+countenance.</p>
+<p>I would not be vain, replied the baron, but I sometimes have flattered
+myself with the hope I was not altogether indifferent to her; tho' for two
+whole years that I have constantly made my addresses to her, I never could
+obtain one soft confession to assure my happiness:—but let me know how
+you have proceeded on the score of mademoiselle Charlotta? believe me, I
+am not so engrossed by my own affairs, as not to give attention to those
+of a friend.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who had been engaged by Charlotta to preserve an inviolable
+secrecy in every thing that had passed between them, without any exception
+of persons, would fain have turned the conversation on some other topic:
+he truly loved the baron, had the highest opinion of his discretion, and
+would have trusted him with the dearest secrets of his life, provided they
+related to himself alone; but he had given his word, his oath, his honour
+to Charlotta, and durst not violate them on any consideration; yet, loth
+to refuse or to deceive his friend, he found himself in the most
+perplexing dilemma. As often as the other spoke of Charlotta, he answered
+with something of de Coigney; but all his artifice was ineffectual, and
+the baron at last saw thro' it, and assuming a very grave countenance, I
+perceive, Horatio, said he, you do not think me worthy your confidence,
+and I was to blame to press you to reveal what you resolve to make a
+mystery of.</p>
+<p>These words made a very deep impression on the grateful soul of him
+they were addressed to; and equally distressed between the necessity of
+either disobliging a person whose generosity he had experienced, or
+falsifying the promise he had made to Charlotta, at last an expedient
+offered to his mind how to avoid both, and yet not be guilty of injuring
+the truth.</p>
+<p>Alas! my lord, answered he, you little know the heart of Horatio, if
+you imagine there be any thing there that would hide itself from you:—I
+freely confess, the charms of mademoiselle Charlotta had such an effect on
+me, that, had I been in circumstances which in the least could have
+flattered me with success, I should long ago have avowed myself her lover:
+but when I reflected on the disparity between us, the humour of her
+father, and a thousand other impediments, I endeavoured to banish so
+hopeless a passion from my breast, and was the more confirmed in my
+resolution to do so by the ill treatment monsieur de Coigney
+received:—besides, her removal from St. Germains, depriving me in a great
+measure of those opportunities I had before of entertaining her, might
+very well contribute to wean off a passion, not settled either by time or
+expectation, of ever being gratified; and I hope, continued he, I shall
+always have so much command over myself as not to become ridiculous by
+aiming at impossibilities.</p>
+<p>Whether the baron gave any credit to what he said on this account or
+not, he had too much politeness to press him any farther; and the
+discourse soon after taking another turn, Horatio was very well pleased to
+think he had got off so well.</p>
+<p>De la Valiere having related to him some particulars of the late
+campaign, which the public accounts had been deficient in, they passed
+from that to some talk of the brave young king of Sweden, a topic which
+filled all Europe with admiration: but the French being a people in whom
+the love of glory is the predominant passion, were more than any other
+nation charmed with the greatness of that prince's soul.</p>
+<p>What indeed has any hero of antiquity to boast of in competition with
+this northern monarch, who conquered and gave away kingdoms for the
+benefit of others, disdaining to receive any other reward for all his vast
+fatigues, than the pleasure of giving a people that person whom he judged
+most worthy to reign over them!</p>
+<p>The baron, who had attended the Count de Guiscard when he was
+residentiary ambassador from his most christian majesty at the Swedish
+court, had an opportunity of seeing more of this monarch than any other
+that Horatio was acquainted with; he therefore, on his requesting it,
+informed him how, at the age of eighteen, he threw off all magnificence,
+forsook the pomp and delicacies of a court he had been bred in, and
+undertook, and compleated the delivery of his brother-in-law, the duke of
+Holstein, from the cruel incursions of the Danes, who had well nigh either
+taken or ravaged the greatest part of his territories. He also set forth,
+in its proper colours, the base part which Peter Alexowitz, czar of
+Muscovy, and Augustus, king of Poland, acted against a prince who was then
+employing his arms in the cause of justice; the latter of these bringing a
+powerful army to take from him one part of his dominions; and the former,
+at the head of an 100,000 men, were plundering the other: but when he
+concluded his little narrative, by reciting how this young conqueror, with
+a handful of brave Swedes, animated by the example of their king, put
+entirely to route all that opposed him, Horatio felt his soul glow with an
+ardour superior even to that of love: he longed to behold a prince who
+seemed to have all the virtues comprized in him, and whose very thoughts,
+as well as actions, might be looked upon as super-natural.</p>
+<p>He is, however, greatly to be pitied, said the baron de la Valiere,
+that the wars he is engaged in, and which, in all probability will be of
+long continuance, hinders him from the possession of the most amiable
+princess in the world, and I dare answer, at least if I may credit those
+about her, she wishes he were of a less martial disposition.</p>
+<p>He will be the more worthy of her, cried Horatio interrupting him, and
+the immortal fame of his actions be a sufficient attonement for all the
+years of expectation that may be its purchase.</p>
+<p>From the time Horatio had this discourse with the baron, the king of
+Sweden was ever uppermost in his thoughts: he had always reflected that,
+in the station he then was, it would be impossible to obtain any more of
+mademoiselle Charlotta than her heart, at least while the baron de Palfoy
+lived, and that a thousand accidents might deprive him of all hopes of
+ever being more happy; but, said he to himself, were I among the number of
+those who attend this hero in his martial exploits, I might at least have
+an opportunity of proving how far fortune would befriend me;—who knows
+but I might be able to do something which might engage that just and
+generous monarch to raise me to a degree capable of avowing my pretensions
+even to her father, and the same blessed day that joined our principals,
+might also make me blessed in the possession of my dear Charlotta.</p>
+<p>With these ideas did he often flatter himself; but the manner in which
+he should accomplish his desires was yet doubtless to him. The chevalier
+St. George treated him with so much kindness, that he had no room to doubt
+his having a great share in his favour; and was fully perswaded, that if
+he communicated his intentions to him, he would vouchsafe to give him
+letters of recommendation to a prince who was to be his brother-in-law:
+but this he feared to ask, lest it should be looked upon as ingratitude
+in him to desire to leave a court where he had been so graciously
+received, and had many favours, besides the perquisites of his post,
+heaped upon him, not only by the chevalier himself, but also by the queen
+and princess, who, following the example of the late king, behaved with a
+kind of natural affection to all the English.</p>
+<p>He sometimes communicated his sentiments on this head to mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who was too discreet not to allow the justness of them; and
+well knew, that in the station her lover now was, they never could be on
+any terms with each other than those they were at present: her reason,
+therefore, and the advantage of her love, made her sometimes wish he would
+follow the dictates of so laudable an ambition; but then the dangers he
+must inevitably be exposed to in following a monarch who never set any
+bounds to his courage, and the thoughts how long it might possibly be
+before she saw him again, alarmed all her tenderness; and he had the
+satisfaction of seeing the tears stand in her eyes whenever they had any
+discourse of this nature; and tho' her words assured him that it was her
+opinion he could not take a more ready way to raise his own fortune, yet
+her looks at the same time made him plainly see how much she would suffer
+in his taking that step.</p>
+<p>Many reasons, both for and against following his inclination in this
+point, presented themselves to him; and he had no sooner, as he thought,
+determined for the one, than the other rose with double vehemence and
+overthrew the former. In this fluctuating situation of mind did he remain
+for some time, and perhaps had done so much longer, had not an accident
+happened which proved decisive, and indeed left him no other party to take
+than that he afterwards did.</p>
+<p>Charlotta, being now entirely mistress of herself, gave him frequent
+meetings in the Tuilleries, judging it safer to converse with him there
+than at the house of any person, whom, in such a case, must be the
+confidante of the whole affair; whereas, if they were seen together in the
+walks, it might be judged they met by accident, and not give any grounds
+of suspicion, which hitherto they had been so fortunate as to avoid.</p>
+<p>It was in one of those appointments, when entered into a very tender
+conversation, they forgot themselves so far as to suffer the moon to rise
+upon them: the stillness of the evening, and the little company which
+happened to be there that night, seemed to indulge their inclinations of
+continuing in so sweet a recess:—they were seated on a bench at the foot
+of a large tree, when Charlotta, in answer to some tender professions he
+had been making, said, depend on this, Horatio, that as you are the first
+who has ever been capable of making me sensible of love, so nothing shall
+have power to change my sentiments while you continue to deserve, or to
+desire I should think of you as I now do. He shall not long continue to
+desire it,—cried a voice behind them, and immediately rushed from the
+other side of the thicket a man with his sword drawn, and ran full upon
+Horatio, who not having time to be upon his guard, had certainly fallen a
+victim to his rival's fury, had not a gentleman seized his arm, and, by
+superior strength, forced him some paces back.—Are you mad, monsieur,
+said he; do you forget the place you are in, or the danger you so lately
+escaped for an enterprize of this nature?</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta, now a little recovered from her first,
+surprize, and knowing it was young monsieur de Coigney who had given her
+this alarm, had presence enough of mind to ask how he dared, after he knew
+her own and father's resolution, to disturb her, or any company she had
+with her? he made no reply, but reflecting that there were other ways than
+fighting, by which he might be revenged, went hastily away with that
+friend who had hindered him from executing his rash purpose; but they
+could hear that he muttered something which seemed a menace against them
+both.</p>
+<p>How impossible is it to express the consternation our lovers now were
+in: they found by the repetition monsieur de Coigney made of the words she
+spoke, that what they had so long and so successfully laboured to conceal,
+was now betrayed:—betrayed to one who would not fail to make the most
+malicious use of the discovery, and doubted not but the affair would
+become the general talk, perhaps to the prejudice of Charlotta's
+reputation; but the least thing either could expect, was to be separated
+for ever.</p>
+<p>Horatio, full of disturbed emotions, conducted his disconsolate
+mistress to the gate of the Tuilleries, and there took a farewel of her,
+which he had too much reason to fear would be his last, at least for a
+long time. He was tempted by his first emotions to seek de Coigney, and
+call him to account for the affront he had put upon him, and either lose
+his own life, or oblige the other to secrecy; but then he considered, that
+there was some probability he would not dare to own that he had given
+himself any concern about mademoiselle Charlotta, after the injunction
+laid on him by his father, much less as he had attempted a duel in her
+cause, having, as has been already mentioned, been before guilty of a like
+offence against the laws, which in that country are very strict, on
+account of madame de Olonne; and this prevailed with him to be passive as
+to what had happened, till he should hear how the other would behave, and
+find what turn the affair would take.</p>
+<p>Charlotta in the mean time was in the most terrible anxieties:—she
+could not imagine what had brought monsieur de Coigney, who she thought
+had been many miles distant, so suddenly to Paris: but on making some
+private enquiry, she was informed, that having met some difficulty in the
+execution of his office, he had taken post, in order to lay his complaints
+before the king, and had arrived that very day.—She now blamed her own
+inadvertency in holding any discourse with Horatio, of a nature not proper
+to be over-heard, in a place so public as the Tuilleries, where others, as
+well as he, might have possibly been witnesses of what was said.</p>
+<p>Young monsieur de Coigney suffered little less from the turbulence of
+his nature, and the mortification it gave his vanity, to find a person,
+whom he looked upon as every way his inferior, preferred to him. His
+thoughts were wholly bent on revenge; but in what manner he should
+accomplish it, he was for some time uncertain: when he acquainted his
+father with the discovery he had made, and the resentment he had testified
+against this unworthy rival, as he called him, the old gentleman blamed
+him for taking any notice of it. Let them love on, son, said he; let them
+marry;—we shall then have a fine opportunity of reproaching the haughty
+baron with his new alliance. This did not however satisfy monsieur de
+Coigney: all the love he once had for mademoiselle Charlotta was now
+turned into hate; and in spite of his father's commands not to meddle in
+the affair, he could not help throwing out some reflections among his
+companions, very much to the disadvantage of the young lady's reputation.
+But these might possibly have blown over, as he had but a small time to
+vent his malice. His father knowing the violence of his temper, in order
+to prevent any ill consequences, compelled him to return to his
+employment; taking upon himself the management of that business which had
+brought him so unluckily to Paris.</p>
+<p>But mademoiselle de Coigney had no sooner been informed by her brother
+of the discovery he had made, than she doubted not that it was on the
+score of Horatio that he had met with such ill success in his courtship;
+and also imagined, that it had been owing to some ill impressions
+mademoiselle Charlotta had given the baron de Palfoy, that her father had
+been treated by him in the manner already recited. She complained of it to
+the baron de la Valiere, and told him, her whole family had been
+affronted, and her brother rendered miserable, for the sake of a young
+man, who, said she, can neither have birth or fortune to boast of, since
+he has been so long a prisoner without any ransom paid, or interposition
+offered to redeem him.</p>
+<p>The baron was too generous not to vindicate the merits of Horatio, as
+much as was consistent with his love and complaisance for his mistress: he
+was notwithstanding very much picqued in his mind that a person, to whom
+he had given the greatest proofs of a sincere and disinterested
+friendship, should have concealed a secret of this nature from him, and
+the more so, as he had seemed to expect and desire his confidence. From
+this time forward he behaved to him with a coldness which was sufficient
+to convince the other of the motive, especially as he found mademoiselle
+de Coigney took all opportunities of throwing the most picquant
+reflections on him. It is certain that lady was so full of spight at the
+indignity she thought her family had received, that she could not help
+whispering the attachment of Horatio and Charlotta, not only at St.
+Germains, but at Paris also, with inunendo's little less cruel than those
+her brother had made use of to his companions; so that between them, the
+amour was talked of among all who were acquainted with either of them.</p>
+<p>At length the report reached the ears of the baron de Palfoy, who, tho'
+he did not immediately give an entire credit to it, thought it became him
+to do every thing in his power to silence it.</p>
+<p>Accordingly he called his daughter to him one day, and having told her
+the liberty which the world took in censuring her conduct on Horatio's
+account, commanded her to avoid all occasions of it for the future, by
+seeing him no more.</p>
+<p>The confusion she was in, and which she had not artifice wholly to
+conceal from the penetrating baron, more convinced him, than all he had
+been told, that there was in reality some tender intercourse between them;
+but resolving to be fully ascertained, he said no more to her at that
+time, but dispatched a messenger immediately to St. Germains, desiring
+Horatio to come to him the same day.</p>
+<p>The lover readily obeyed this summons, but not without some
+apprehensions of the motive: the hints daily given him, joined to the
+alteration, not only in the behaviour of mademoiselle de Coigney, but
+likewise of the baron de la Valiere, gave him but too just room to fear
+his passion was no longer a secret.</p>
+<p>The father of Charlotta received him with great courtesy, but nothing
+of that pleasantness with which he had looked on him ever since he had
+defended him from the robbers. Horatio, said he, I am indebted to you for
+my life, and would willingly make what recompence is in my power for the
+obligation I have to you:—think therefore what I can do for you; and if
+your demands exceed not what is fit for you to ask, or would become me to
+grant, you may be assured of my compliance.</p>
+<p>The astonishment Horatio was in at these words is impossible to be
+expressed; but having an admirable presence of mind, my lord, answered he,
+I should be unworthy of the favours you do me, could I be capable of
+presuming on them so far as to make any requests beyond the continuance of
+them.</p>
+<p>No, Horatio, resumed the baron, I acknowledge my gratitude has been too
+deficient, since it has extended only to those civilities which are due to
+your merit, exclusive of any obligation; the conversation we have had
+together has hitherto afforded a pleasure to myself, and it is with a good
+deal of mortification I now find a necessity to break it off:—I would
+therefore have the satisfaction of doing something that might convince you
+of my esteem, at the same time that I desire you to refrain your visits.</p>
+<p>Not all Horatio's courage could enable him to stand this shock, without
+testifying some part of what passed in his mind:—he was utterly incapable
+of making any reply, tho' the silence of the other shewed he expected it,
+but stood like one confounded, and conscious of deserving the banishment
+he heard pronounced against him.—At last recollecting himself a
+little,—my lord, said he, I see not how I can be happy enough to preserve
+any part of your esteem, since looked upon as unworthy an honour you were
+once pleased to confer upon me.</p>
+<p>You affect, said the baron, a slowness of apprehension, which is far
+from being natural to you, and perhaps imagine, that by not seeming to
+understand me, I should believe there were no grounds for me to forbid
+you my house; but, young man, I am not so easily deceived; and since you
+oblige me to speak plain, must tell you, I am sorry to find you have
+entertained any projects, which, if you had the least consulted your
+reason, you would have known could never be accomplished.—In fine,
+Horatio, what you make so great a mystery of, may be explained in three
+words:—I wish you well as a friend, but cannot think of making you my
+son:—I would recompence what you have done for me with any thing but my
+daughter, and as a proof of my concern for your happiness, I exclude you
+from all society with her, in order to prevent so unavailing a passion
+from taking too deep a root.</p>
+<p>Ah, my lord, cried Horatio, perceiving all dissimulation would be vain,
+the man who once adored mademoiselle de Palfoy can never cease to do so.
+He ought therefore, replied the baron, without being moved, to consider
+the consequences well before he begins to adore:—if I had been consulted
+in the matter I should have advised you better; but it is now too late,
+and all I can do is to prevent your ever meeting more:—this, Horatio, is
+all I have to say, and that if in any other affair I can be serviceable to
+you, communicate your request in writing, and depend on its being granted.</p>
+<p>In speaking these last words he withdrew, and left Horatio in a
+situation of mind not easy to be conceived.—He was once about to entreat
+him to turn back, but had nothing to offer which could make him hope would
+prevail on him to alter his resolution.—He never had been insensible of
+the vast disparity there was at present between him and the noble family
+of de Palfoy: he could expect no other, or rather worse treatment than
+what he had now received, if his passion was ever discovered, and had no
+excuse to make for what himself allowed so great a presumption.</p>
+<p>With a countenance dejected, and a heart oppressed with various
+agitations, did he quit the house which contained what was most valuable
+to him in the world, while poor Charlotta endured, if possible, a greater
+shock.</p>
+<p>The baron de Palfoy, now convinced that all he had been informed of was
+ true, was more incensed against her than he had been on the mistaken
+ supposition of her being influenced in favour of monsieur de Coigney: he
+ had no sooner left Horatio than he flew to her apartment, and reproached
+ her in terms the most severe that words could form.—It was in vain she
+ protested that she never had any design of giving herself to Horatio
+ without having first received his permission.—He looked on all she said
+ as an augmentation of her crime, and soon came to a determination to put
+ it past her power to give him more than she had already done.</p>
+<p>Early next morning he sent her, under the conduct of a person he could
+confide in, to a monastry about thirty miles from Paris, without even
+letting her know whither she was about being carried, or giving her the
+least notice of her departure till the coach was at the door, into which
+he put, her himself with these words,—adeiu Charlotta, expect not to see
+Paris, or me again, till you desire no more to see Horatio.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. X.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The reasons that induced Horatio to leave France; with the chevalier
+St. George's behaviour on knowing his resolution. He receives an
+unexpected favour from the baron de Palfoy.</i></p>
+<p>While Charlotta, under the displeasure of her father, and divided,
+as she believed, for ever from her lover, was pursuing her melancholy
+journey, Horatio was giving way to a grief which knew no bounds, and which
+preyed with the greater feirceness on his soul, as he had no friend to
+whom he could disburden it. The baron's estrang'd behaviour was no small
+addition to his other discontents, and he lamented the cruel necessity
+which had enforced him to disoblige a person to whom he owed so many
+favours, and whose advice would now have been the greatest consolation.</p>
+<p>He could not now hope Charlotta would be permitted to come to St.
+Germains, and doubted not but her father would take effectual methods to
+prevent her visiting at any place where even accident might occasion a
+meeting between them: he knew the watch had been set over her on the
+account of monsieur de Coigney, and might be assured it would not now be
+less strict, and that it would be equally impossible for either to
+communicate their thoughts by writing as it was to see each other.</p>
+<p>He was in the midst of these reflections when he heard, by some people
+who were acquainted with the baron de Palfoy, that he had sent his
+daughter away, but none knew where: this, instead of lessening his
+despair, was a very great aggravation of it:—he imagined she was confined
+in some monastry, and was not insensible of the difficulties that attend
+seeing a young lady who is sent there purposely to avoid the world; yet,
+said he to himself, could I be happy enough to discover even to what
+province she was carried, I would go from convent to convent till I had
+found which of them contained her.</p>
+<p>It was in vain that he made all possible enquiry: every one he asked
+was in reality as ignorant as himself.—The baron de Palfoy had trusted
+none, so could not be deceived but by those persons who had the charge of
+conducting her, and of their fidelity he had many proofs. Yet how
+impossible is it for human prudence to resist the decrees of fate.—The
+secret was betrayed, without any one being guilty of accusing the
+confidence reposed in them, and by the strangest accident that perhaps
+ever was, Horatio learned all he wished to know when he had given over all
+his endeavours for that purpose, and was totally despairing of it.</p>
+<p>He came one day to Paris, in order to alleviate his melancholy, in the
+company of some young gentlemen, who had expressed a very great regard for
+him; but his mind being taken up with various and perplexed thoughts on
+his entrance into that city, he mistook his way, and turned into the rue
+St. Dennis instead of the rue St. Honore, where he had been accustomed to
+leave his horses and servant.—He found his error just as he was passing
+by a large inn, and it being a matter of indifference to him where he put
+up, would not turn back, but ordered his man to alight here.—I forgot
+where I was going, said he, but I suppose the horses will be taken as much
+care of at this house as where we used to go. I shall see to that, replied
+the fellow. Horatio stepped into a room to take some refreshment while his
+servant went to the stable, but had not been there above a minute before
+he heard very high words between some people in the yard; and as he turned
+towards the window, saw a man in the livery of the baron de Palfoy, and
+whom he presently knew to be the coachman of that nobleman. He was hot in
+dispute with the innkeeper concerning a horse which he had hired of him,
+and, as the other insisted, drove so hard that he had killed him. The
+coachman denied the accusation; but the innkeeper told him he had
+witnesses to prove the horse died two hours after he was brought home,
+and declared, that if he had not satisfaction for his beast, he would
+complain to the baron, and if he did not do him justice, have recourse to
+law.—There was a long argument between them concerning the number of
+miles, the hours they drove, and the weight of the carriage.—Among other
+things the innkeeper alledged, that he saw them as he passed his corner,
+and there were so many trunks, boxes, and other luggage behind and before
+the coach, besides the company that was in it, that it required eight
+horses instead of six to draw it. Why then, said the coachman, did it not
+kill our horses as well as yours; if they had been equally good, they
+would have held out equally.—I do not pretend mine was as good, replied
+the innkeeper, I cannot afford to feed my horses as my lord does; but yet
+he was a stout gelding, and if he had not been drove so very hard, and
+perhaps otherwise ill used into the bargain, he would have been alive now.</p>
+<p>All this was sufficient to make Horatio imagine it was for the journey
+which deprived him of his dear Charlotta, that this horse had been hired,
+so tarried in the place where he was till the debate was over, which ended
+not to the satisfaction of the innkeeper, who swore he would not be fooled
+out of his money. As soon as the coachman was gone, Horatio called him in,
+and asked what was the matter, and who it was that endeavoured to impose
+upon him? on which the innkeeper readily told him, that on such a day this
+coachman came to him and hired a horse in order to make up a set to go to
+Rheines in Champaigne, my lord-baron having three or four sick in the
+stable at that time.—Two days after, said he, my horse was brought home
+all in a foam, and fell down dead in less than three hours, and yet this
+rascally coachman refuses to pay me for him.</p>
+<p>Horatio humoured him in all he said, and let him go on his own way till
+he had vented his whole stock of railing, and then asked him what company
+were in the coach. The innkeeper replied, that there was one man and two
+women, but did not know who they were, for their faces were muffled up in
+their hoods. This was sufficient for him to be assured it was no other
+than Charlotta, with her woman, and some friend whom the baron had sent
+with them. The day mentioned, being the very same he had been informed she
+was carried away, was also another confirmation; and he had not only the
+happiness of knowing where his mistress was, but of knowing it by such
+means as could give the baron no suspicion of his being acquainted with
+it, and therefore make him think it necessary to remove her.</p>
+<p>Having gained this intelligence, which yet he was no better for than
+the hope of being able to get a sight of her thro' the grate, which he was
+resolved to accomplish some way or other, he resumed his design of going
+into the army of the king of Sweden. As a perfect knowledge of the many
+excellent qualities of the chevalier St. George, made him regard and love
+him with an affection beyond what is ordinarily to be met with from a
+servant to his master, he felt an extreme repugnance to quit him, and yet
+more in breaking a matter to him which, while it testified a confidence in
+the goodness of him whose assistance he must implore, he thought, at the
+same time, would be looked on as ingratitude in himself; and he was some
+time deliberating in what manner he should do it; and it would have been
+perhaps a great while before he could have found words which he would have
+thought proper for the purpose, if he had not taken an opportunity, which,
+without any design of his own, offered itself to him.</p>
+<p>The chevalier St. George took a particular pleasure in the game of
+Chess; and Horatio having learned it among the officers in Campaine,
+frequently played with him: they were one evening at this diversion, when
+the lover of Charlotta having his mind a little perplexed, placed his men
+so ill, that the chevalier beat him out at every motion. How is this,
+Horatio, cried he; you used to play better than I, butt now I have the
+advantage of you.—May you always have it, sir, replied he with the utmost
+respect, over all who pretend to oppose you.—Chess is a kind of emblem of
+war, where policy should go hand in hand with courage; and there is a
+great master in that art, whom if I were some time to serve under, I
+flatter myself that I should be able to know how to move my men with
+better success than I have done to night; but then my skill should be
+employed only against such as are your enemies.</p>
+<p>You mean my brother Charles of Sweden, said the chevalier smiling, but
+I believe he seldom plays. Never, but when kingdoms are at stake, resumed
+Horatio; and if a day should come when you, sir, shall attempt the prize,
+how fortunate would it be for me to have learned to serve you as I am
+obliged by much more than my duty, by the most natural and inviolable
+attachment of my heart, which would render it the greatest blessing I
+could receive from heaven. I believe, indeed, returned the chevalier St.
+George, you love me enough to fight in my cause whenever occasion offers.
+I would not only fight, but die, cried Horatio warmly; yet I would wish to
+have the skill to make a great number of your enemies die before me. Well,
+said the chevalier, we will talk of this to-morrow; in the mean time play
+as well as you can against me at St. Germains: in another place perhaps
+you may play for me. Horatio made no other reply to these words than a low
+bow, and then elating his hands and eyes to heaven, as internally praying
+for the opportunity his master seemed to hint at.</p>
+<p>The impression this little conversation made on the mind of the
+chevalier St. George, proved itself in its effects the very next day.
+Horatio being ordered to come into his chamber early in the morning,—I
+have been thinking on what passed last night between us, said he, and if
+you have a serious Intention of doing what you seemed to hint at, will
+contribute all I can to forward you.</p>
+<p>Ah sir! cried Horatio, falling at his feet, impute not, I beseech you,
+this desire in me to any thing but the extreme desire I have to render
+myself worthy of the favours you have been pleased to confer upon me, and
+to be able to serve you whenever any happy occasion shall present itself.</p>
+<p>No more, Horatio, replied the chevalier, with a sweetness and
+affability peculiar to himself; I am perfectly assured of your duty and
+affection to me, and am so far from taking it ill that you desire to quit
+my court on this score, that I think, your ambition highly laudable:—I
+will write letters of recommendation, with my own hand, to my brother
+Charles, and to some others in his camp, which I doubt not but will
+procure you a reception answerable to your wishes:—therefore, as it is a
+long journey you are to take, the sooner you provide for your departure
+the better:—I will order you out of my privy purse 2000 crowns towards
+your expences.</p>
+<p>Horatio found it impossible to express how much this goodness touched
+his soul; nor could do it any otherwise than by prostrating himself a
+second time, embracing his knees, and uttering some incoherent
+acclamations, which more shewed to his master the sincerity of his
+gratitude, and the perfect love he bore him, than the most elegant
+speeches could have done.</p>
+<p>After all possible demonstrations of the most gracious benignity on the
+one side, and reverence on the other, Horatio quitted the presence, and
+went to sir Thomas Higgons, who at that time was privy purse, and one of
+the finest gentlemen that ever England bred, and acquainted him with the
+chevalier St. George's goodness to him, and the change that was going to
+be made in his fortune: he thanked him in the politest manner for being
+made the first that should congratulate him, and told him, he did not
+doubt but he should see him return covered with laurels, and enriched with
+honours, by the most glorious and grateful monarch the world had to boast
+of. The whole court, whose esteem the good qualities, handsome person, and
+agreeable behaviour of Horatio had entirely gained, seemed to partake in
+his satisfaction, and he was so engrossed with the preparations for his
+departure, and receiving the compliments made him, that tho' he was far
+from forgetting Charlotta, yet the languishment which her absence had
+occasioned was entirely banished, and he now appeared all life and
+spirit.—So true it is that idleness is the food of soft desires.</p>
+<p>It must be confessed, indeed, that love had a very great share in
+reviving in him those martial inclinations, which for a time had seemed
+lulled to rest, since it was to render himself in a condition which might
+give him hope of obtaining the object of his love that now pushed him on
+to war. He resolved also to make Rheines in his way to Poland, where the
+king of Sweden then was pursuing his conquests, and see, if possible, his
+dear Charlotta, before he left France; and as he was of a more than
+ordinary sanguine disposition, he was much sooner elated with the prospect
+of success in any undertaking he went about, than dejected at the
+disappointment of it.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere, whose friendship over-balanced his resentment,
+now gave an instance of his generosity, which, as things had stood of late
+between them, Horatio was far from expecting. That nobleman came to his
+apartment one day with a letter in his hand, and accosting him with the
+familiarity he had been accustomed to treat him with before their
+estrangement,—Horatio, said he, I cannot suffer you to leave us without
+giving you what testimonies of good-will are in my power:—you are now
+going among strangers, and tho' after the recommendations I hear you are
+to carry with you from the chevalier St. George, nothing can be added to
+assure you of the king of Sweden's favour, yet as many brave actions are
+lost for want of a proper representation of them, and the eyes of kings
+cannot be every where, it may be of some service to you to have general
+Renchild your friend: I once had the honour of a particular acquaintance
+with that great man, and I believe this letter, which I beg the favour of
+you to deliver to him, will in part convince him of your merit, before you
+may have an opportunity of proving it to him by your actions.</p>
+<p>Horatio took the letter out of his hand, which he had presented to him
+at the conclusion of his speech; and charmed with this behaviour, the
+satisfaction I should take, said he, in this mark of your forgiving
+goodness, would be beyond all bounds, were I not conscious how far I
+have been unworthy of it; and that I fear the same goodness, always
+partial to me, may have in this paper (meaning the letter) endeavoured to
+give the general an idea of me which I may not be able to preserve.</p>
+
+<p>I look upon myself to be the best judge of that, replied the baron with
+a smile; and you may remember, that on a very different occasion I saw
+into your sentiments before you were well acquainted with the nature of
+them yourself.</p>
+<p>As Horatio knew these words referred to the discourse that had passed
+between them concerning his then infant passion for mademoiselle
+Charlotta, he could not help blushing; but de la Valiere perceiving he had
+given him some confusion, would have turned the discourse, had not the
+other thought fit to continue it, by letting him know the real motive
+which had constrained him to act with the reserve he had done on that
+score.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere assured him that he should think no more of it;
+and tho' at first he had taken it a little amiss, yet when he came to
+reflect on the circumstance, he could not but confess he should have
+behaved in the same manner himself.</p>
+<p>The renewal of the former friendship between them, greatly added to the
+contentment Horatio at present enjoyed; but soon after he received such an
+augmentation of it, as he could never have imagined, much less have
+flattered himself with the hope of.</p>
+<p>Some few days before his departure, a servant of the baron de Palfoy
+came to him to let him know his lord sent his compliments, and desired to
+speak with him at his own house. The message seemed so improbable, that
+Horatio could scarce give credit to it, and imagined the man had been
+mistaken in the person to whom he delivered it, till he repeated over and
+over again that it was to no other he was sent.</p>
+<p>Had it been any other than the father of mademoiselle Charlotta, who
+had invited him to a house he had been once forbid, he scarce would have
+obeyed the summons; but as it was he, the awful person who gave being to
+that charmer of his soul, he sent the most respectful answer, and the same
+day took horse for Paris, and attended the explanation of an order which
+at present seemed so misterious to him.</p>
+<p>The baron was no sooner informed he was there, than he came into the
+parlour with a countenance, which had in it all the marks of good humour
+and satisfaction; Horatio, said he, after having made him seat himself, I
+doubt not but you think me your enemy, after the treatment I gave you the
+last time you were here; but I assure you, I suffered no less myself in
+forbidding you my house, than you could do in having what you might think
+an affront put upon you:—but, continued he after a pause, you ought to
+consider I am a father, that Charlotta is my only child, that my whole
+estate, and what is of infinite more consideration with me, the honour of
+my family, must all devolve on her, and that I am under obligations not to
+be dispensed with, to dispose of her in such a manner as shall not any way
+degrade the ancestry she is sprung from.—I own your merits:—I also am
+indebted to you for my life:—but you are a foreigner, your family
+unknown,—your fortune precarious:—I could wish it were
+otherwise;—believe, I find in myself an irresistable impulse to love you,
+and I know nothing would give me greater pleasure than to convince you of
+it.—In fine, there is nothing but Charlotta I would refuse you.</p>
+<p>The old lord uttered all this with so feeling an accent that Horatio
+was very much moved at it; but unable to guess what would be the
+consequence of this strange preparation, and not having any thing to ask
+of him but the only thing he had declared he would not grant, he only
+thanked him for the concern he was pleased to express, and said, that
+perhaps there might come a time in which the obscurity he was in at
+present would be enlightened; at least, cried he, I shall have the
+satisfaction of endeavouring to acquire by merit what I am denied by
+fortune.</p>
+<p>I admire this noble ambition in you, replied the baron de Palfoy;
+pursue these laudable views, and doubt not of success:—it would be an
+infinite pleasure to me to see you raised so high, that I should
+acknowledge an alliance with you the greatest honour I could hope: and to
+shew you with how much sincerity I speak,—here is a letter I have wrote
+to count Piper, the first minister and favourite of the king of Sweden;
+when you deliver this to him, I am certain you will be convinced by his
+reception of you, that you are one whose interest I take no inconsiderable
+part in.</p>
+<p>With these words he gave him a letter directed, as he had said, but not
+sealed, which Horatio, after he had manifested the sense he had of so
+unhoped an obligation, reminded him of. As it concerns only yourself, said
+the baron, it is proper you should read it first, and I will then put on
+my signet.</p>
+<p>Horatio on this unfolded it, and found it contained such high
+commendations of him, and such pressing entreaties to that minister to
+contribute all he could to his promotion, that it seemed rather dictated
+by the fondness of a parent, than by one who had taken so much pains to
+avoid being so. O, my lord! cried he, as soon as he had done perusing it,
+how much do you over-rate the little merit I am master of, yet how little
+regard a passion which is the sole inspirer of it! what will avail all the
+glory I can acquire, if unsuccessful in my love!</p>
+<p>Let us talk no more of that, said the baron de Palfoy, you ought to be
+satisfied I do all for you in my power to do at present:—other
+opportunities may hereafter arrive in which you may find the continuance
+of my friendship, and a grateful remembrance of the good office you did
+me; but to engage me to fulfil my obligations without any reluctance on my
+part, you must speak to me no more on a theme which I cannot hear without
+emotions, such as I would by no means give way to.</p>
+<p>Horatio gave a deep sigh, but presumed not to reply; the other, to
+prevent him, turned the conversation on the wonderful actions of that
+young king into whose service he was going to enter; but the lover had
+contemplations of a different nature which he was impatient to indulge,
+therefore made his visit as short as decency and the favour he had just
+received would permit. The baron at parting gave him a very affectionate
+embrace, and told him, he should rejoice to hear of his success by letters
+from him as often as the places and employments he should be in would
+allow him to write.</p>
+<p>Let any one form, if they can, an idea suitable to the present
+situation of Horatio's mind at so astonishing an incident: impossible it
+was for him to form any certain conjecture on the baron de Palfoy's
+behaviour; some of his expressions seemed to flatter him with the highest
+expectations of future happiness, while others, he thought, gave him
+reason to despair:—sometimes he imagined that it was to his pride and the
+greatness of his spirit, which would not suffer him to let any obligation
+go unrequited, that he owed what had been just now done for him.—But when
+he reflected on the contents of the letter to count Piper, he could not
+help thinking they were dictated by something more than an enforced
+gratitude:—he remembered too that he promised him the continuation of his
+friendship, and had given some hints during the conversation, as if time
+and some accidents, which might possibly happen, might give a turn to his
+affairs even on Charlotta's account.—On the whole it appeared most
+reasonable to conclude, that if he could by any means raise his fortune in
+the world to the pitch the baron had determined for his daughter, he would
+not disapprove their loves; and in this belief he could not but think
+himself as fortunate as he could expect to be, since he never had been
+vain enough to imagine, that in his present circumstances he might hope
+either the consent of the father, or the ratification of the daughter's
+affection.</p>
+<p>Every thing being now ready for his departure, he took leave of the
+chevalier St. George, who seemed to be under a concern for losing him,
+which only the knowledge how great an advantage this young gentleman would
+receive by it, could console: the queen also gave him a letter from
+herself to her intended son-in-law; and the charming princess Louisa, with
+blushes, bid him tell the king of Sweden, he had her prayers and wishes
+for success in all his glorious enterprizes.</p>
+<p>Thus laden with credentials which might assure him of a reception equal
+to the most ambitious aim of his aspiring soul, he set out from Paris, not
+without some tender regret at quitting a place where he had been treated
+with such uncommon and distinguished marks of kindness and respect. But
+these emotions soon gave way to others more transporting:—he was on his
+journey towards Rheines, the place which contained his beloved Charlotta;
+and the thoughts that every moment brought him still nearer to her filled
+him with extacies, which none but those who truly love can have any just
+conception of.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds means to see mademoiselle
+Charlotta and afterwards pursues his journey to Poland</i>.</p>
+<p>The impatience Horatio had to be at Rheines made him travel very hard
+till he reached that city; nor did he allow himself much time for repose
+after his fatigue, till having made a strict enquiry at all the
+monasteries, he at length discovered where mademoiselle Charlotta was
+placed.</p>
+<p>Hitherto he had been successful beyond his hopes; but the greatest
+difficulty was not yet surmounted: he doubted not but as such secrecy had
+been used in the carrying her from Paris, and of the place to which she
+had been conveyed, that the same circumspection would be preserved in
+concealing her from the sight of any stranger that should come to the
+monastry:—he invented many pretences, but none seemed satisfactory to
+himself, therefore could not expect they would pass upon
+others.—Sometimes he thought of disguising himself in the habit of a
+woman, his youth, and the delicacy of his complexion making him imagine he
+might impose on the abbess and the nuns for such; but then he feared being
+betrayed, by not being able to answer the questions which would in all
+probability be asked him.—He endeavoured to find out some person that was
+acquainted there; but tho' he asked all the gentlemen, which were a great
+many, that dined at the same Hotel with him, he was at as great a loss as
+ever. He went to the chapel every hour that mass was said, but could
+flatter himself with no other satisfaction from that than the empty one of
+knowing he was under the same roof with her; for the gallery in which the
+ladies sit, pensioners, as well as those who have taken the veil, are so
+closely grated, that it is impossible for those below to distinguish any
+object.</p>
+<p>He was almost distracted when he had been there three or four days
+without being able to find any expedient which he could think likely to
+succeed:—he knew not what to resolve on;—time pressed him to pursue his
+journey;—every day, every hour that he lost from prosecuting the glorious
+hopes he had in view, struck ten thousand daggers to his soul:—but then
+to go without informing the dear object of his wishes how great a part she
+had in inspiring his ambition,—without assuring her of his eternal
+constancy and faith, and receiving some soft condescensions from her to
+enable him to support so long an absence as he in all probability must
+endure.—All this, I say, was a shock to thought, which, had he not been
+relieved from, would have perhaps abated great part of that spirit which
+it was necessary for him to preserve, in order to agree with the
+recommendatory letters he carried with him.</p>
+<p>He was just going out of the chapel full of unquiet meditations, when
+passing by the confessional, a magdalen curiously painted which hung near
+it attracted his eyes: as he was admiring the piece, something fell from
+above and hit against his arm; he stooped to take it up, and found it a
+small ivory tablet: he looked up, but could see the shadow of nothing
+behind the grate: imagining it only an accident, and not knowing to whom
+to return it, he put it in his pocket, but was no sooner out of the chapel
+than curiosity excited him to see what it contained, which he had no
+sooner done than in the first leaf he found these words: <br/>
+<br/>
+"As I imagine you did not come this long journey<br/>
+without a desire to see me, it would be too ungrateful<br/>
+not to assist your endeavours:—come a little before<br/>
+vespers, and enquire of the portress for mademoiselle<br/>
+du Pont;—say you are her brother, and leave the rest to me."</p>
+<p>There was no name subscribed; but the dear characters, tho' evidently
+wrote in haste and with a pencil, which made some alteration in the
+fineness of the strokes, convinced him it came from no other than
+Charlotta; and never were any hours so tedious to him as those which past
+between the receiving this appointment, and that of the fulfilling it.</p>
+<p>At length the wish'd-for time arrived, and he repaired to the gate,
+where telling the portress, as he was ordered, that he was the brother of
+mademoiselle du Pont, he was immediately brought into the parlour, where
+he had not waited long before a young lady appeared behind the grate: as
+he found it was not her he expected, he was a little at a loss, and not
+without some apprehensions that his imagination had deceived him: I know
+not, madame, said he, if chance has not made me mistaken for some happier
+person:—I thought to find a sister here.—No, replied she laughing,
+Horatio shall find me a sister in my good offices;—mademoiselle Charlotta
+will be here immediately;—she has counterfeited an indisposition to avoid
+going to vespers, and obtained permission for me to stay with her;—so
+that every thing is right, and as soon as the choir is gone into chapel
+you will see her. It would be needless to repeat the transports Horatio
+uttered on this occasion, so I shall only say they were such as convinced
+mademoiselle du Pont, that her fair friend had not made this condescension
+to a man ungrateful for, or insensible of the obligation. He was indeed so
+lost in them, that he scarce remembered to pay those compliments to the
+lady for her generous assistance which it merited from him; but she easily
+forgave any unpoliteness he might be guilty of on that score; and he so
+well attoned for it after he had given vent to the sudden emotions of his
+joy, that she looked, upon him as the most accomplished, as well as the
+most faithful of his sex. They had entered into some discourse of the
+rules of the monastry, and how impossible it would have been for him to
+have gained an interview with mademoiselle Charlotta, but by the means she
+had contrived;—she told him that young lady had seen him for several
+days, and not doubling but it was for her sake he came, had resolved to
+run any risque rather than he should depart without obtaining so small a
+consolation as the sight of her was capable of affording. Horatio, by the
+most passionate expressions, testified how dearly he prized what she had
+seemed to think of so little value, when the expected charmer of his soul
+drew near the grate.—All that can be conceived of tender and endearing
+past between them; but when he related to her the occasion of his coming,
+and that change of life he now was entering upon, she listened to him with
+a mixture of pleasure and anxiety:—she rejoiced with him on the great
+prospects he had in view; but the terror of the dangers he was plunging in
+was all her own. She was far, however, from discouraging him in his
+designs, and concealed not her admiration of the greatness of his spirit,
+and that love of glory which seemed to render him capable of undertaking
+any thing.</p>
+<p>But when she heard in what manner her father had treated him, she was
+all astonishment: as she knew his temper perfectly well, she was certain
+he would not have acted in the manner he did without being influenced to
+it by a very strong liking for Horatio; for tho' gratitude for the good
+office he had received at his hands might have engaged him to make some
+requital, yet there were several expressions which Horatio, who remembered
+all he said, with the utmost exactness repeated to her, that convinced her
+he would not have made use of, if he had not meant the person better than
+he at present would have him think he did; and that there was in reality
+nothing restrained him from making them as happy as their mutual affection
+could desire, but the pride of blood and the talk of the world, which the
+disparity of their present circumstances would occasion. As she doubted
+not but the courage and virtue of Horatio would remove that impediment,
+by acquiring a promotion sufficient to countenance his pretensions, she
+had now no other disquiet than what arose from her fears for his safety,
+which she over and over repeated, conjuring him, in the most tender terms,
+not to hazard himself beyond what the duties of his post obliged him
+to:—this, said she, shall be the test of my affection to you; for
+whenever I hear you run yourself into unnecessary dangers, I will conclude
+from that moment you have ceased to remember, or pay any regard to my
+injunctions or repose.</p>
+<p>Horatio kissed her hand thro' the grate, and told her, he would always
+set too great a value on a life she was so good to with the continuance
+of, not to take all the care of it that honour would admit; but she would
+not give him leave to add any asseverations to this promise, which, said
+she, you will every day be tempted to break;—the enterprizing disposition
+of the prince you are going to serve, added to your own sense of glory,
+will make it very difficult for you not to be the foremost in following
+wherever his royal example leads the way:—nor would I wish you to
+purchase security by the price of infamy; but as you go in a manner such
+as will in all probability place you near his person, methinks it would be
+easy for you, by now and then mentioning the princess Louisa, to rouse in
+him these soft emotions which might prevent him from too rashly exposing a
+life she had so great an interest in.</p>
+<p>How great a pity was it this tender conversation between two persons
+who had so pure a passion for each other, who had been absent for some
+time, and who knew not when, or whether ever they should meet again, could
+not be indulged with no longer continuance! but now mademoiselle du Pont,
+who had been so good as to stand at some little distance, while they
+entertained each other, as a watch to give them notice of any
+interruption, now warned them that they must part:—divine service was
+over, and the abbess and nuns were returning from chapel.</p>
+<p>Short was the farewel the lovers took; mademoiselle Charlotta had told
+him it would be highly improper he should run the hazard of a discovery by
+coming there a second time, which would probably incense her father so
+much, as to convert all the favourable intentions he now might have
+towards them into the reverse, and he was therefore oblig'd to content
+himself with printing with his lips the seal of his affection on her hand,
+which he had scarce done before, on a second motion by mademoiselle du
+Pont, she shot suddenly from the place and went to her chamber, that no
+suspicions might arise on her being found so well as to have been able to
+quit it.</p>
+<p>As he had passed for the brother of mademoiselle du Pont, she stayed
+some little time with him: this lady, whom Charlotta in this exigence had
+made her confidant, had a great deal of good nature, and seeing the agony
+Horatio was in, endeavoured to console him by all the arguments she
+thought might have force;—she told him, that in the short time she had
+been made partaker of mademoiselle Charlotta's secrets, she had expressed
+herself with a tenderness for him, with which he ought to be satisfied,
+and that she was convinced nothing would ever be capable of making the
+least alteration in her sentiments.</p>
+<p>While she was speaking in this manner, Horatio remembered that he had
+not given Charlotta her tablet, which he now took out of his pocket, and
+with the same pencil she had made use of, and which was fastened to it,
+wrote in the next leaf to that she had employed these words; <br/>
+<br/>
+"I go, most dear, and most adorable Charlotta;<br/>
+whether to live or die I know not, but which<br/>
+ever is my portion, the passion I have for you is<br/>
+rooted in my soul, and will be equally immortal:<br/>
+life can give no joy but in the hope of being<br/>
+yours, nor death any terrors but being separated<br/>
+from you:—O! let nothing ever prevail on<br/>
+you to forget so perfect an attachment; but in<br/>
+the midst of all the temptations you may be<br/>
+surrounded with, think that you have vouch-safed<br/>
+to encourage my hopes, presuming as they<br/>
+are, and if once lost to them, what must be the<br/>
+destiny of<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>Having thus poured out some part of the over-flowings of his heart, he
+entreated mademoiselle du Pont to give it her, which she assured him she
+would not only do, but also be a faithful monitor for him during the whole
+time she should be happy enough to enjoy the company of that lady. Horatio
+having now fulfilled all his passion required of him, quitted Rheines the
+next day, no less impatient to pursue his other mistress, glory!</p>
+<p>But let us now see in what manner his beautiful sister Louisa, whom we
+left at Vienna, was all this while engaged.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Continuation of the adventures of Louisa: her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some accidents that there befel them</i>.</p>
+<p>Not all the gaieties of the court of Vienna had power to attach the
+heart of Melanthe, after she heard that a great number of young officers,
+just returned from the campaign in Italy, and other persons of condition,
+were going to Venice, in order to partake the diversions of the near
+approaching carnival: she was for following pleasure every where, and
+having seen all that was worth observing in Germany, was impatient to be
+gone where new company and new delights excited her curiosity.</p>
+<p>Having therefore obtained proper passports, they set out in company
+with several others who were taking the same rout, and by easy journeys
+thro' Tyrol, at length arrived at that republic, so famous over all Europe
+for its situation, antiquity, and the excellence of its constitution.</p>
+<p>Here seemed to be at this time an assemblage of all that was to be
+found of grand and polite in the whole christian world; but none appeared
+with that splendor and magnificence as did Lewis de Bourbon, prince of
+Conti: he had in his train above fifty noblemen and gentlemen of the best
+families in France, who had commissions under him in the army, and seemed
+proud to be of his retinue, less for his being of the blood royal, than
+for the many great and amiable qualities which adorned his person. This
+great hero had been a candidate with Augustus, elector of Saxony, for the
+crown of Poland; but the ill genius of that kingdom would not suffer it to
+be governed by a prince whose virtues would doubtless have rendered it as
+flourishing and happy as it has since that unfortunate rejection been
+impoverished and miserable. Bigotted to a family whose designs are plainly
+to render the crown hereditary, they not only set aside that great prince,
+under the vain and common-place pretence, that on electing him they might
+be too much under the influence of France; but also afterward, as resolved
+to push all good fortune from them with both hands, refused Stanislaus, a
+native of Poland, a strict observer of its laws, and a man to whose
+courage, virtue, and every eminent qualification even envy itself could
+make no objection, and thereby rendered their country the seat of war and
+theatre of the most terrible devastations of all kinds. But of this
+infatuation of the Poles I shall have occasion hereafter to speak more at
+large, and should not now have made any mention of it, had not the
+presence of that hero, whom they first rejected, rendered it the general
+subject of discourse at Venice. Numberless were the instances he gave of a
+magnanimity and greatness of mind worthy of a more exalted throne than
+that of Poland; but I shall only mention one, which, like the thumb of
+Hercules, may serve to give a picture of him in miniature.</p>
+<p>Having the good fortune one night to win a very great sum at a public
+gaming, just as he sweep'd the stakes, a noble Venetian, who by some
+casualties in life was reduced in his circumstances, could not help crying
+out, heavens! how happy would such a chance have made me! these words,
+which the extreme difficulties he was under forced from him, without being
+sensible himself of what he said, were over-heard by the prince, who
+turning hastily about, instead of putting the money into his own pocket,
+presented it to him, saying, I am doubly indebted to chance, sir, which
+has made me master of this; since it may be of service to you, I beseech
+you therefore to accept it with the respects of a prince, whose greatest
+pleasure in life is to oblige a worthy person.</p>
+<p>It would take up too much time to expatiate on the grateful
+acknowledgments made by the Venetian, or the admiration which the report
+of this action being immediately spread, occasioned; but, added to others
+of a little less conspicuous nature, it greatly served to convince those
+who before were ignorant of it, how blind the Polanders had been to their
+own interest.</p>
+<p>Among the concourse of nobility and gentry, whom merely the love of
+pleasure had drawn hither, and for that end were continually forming
+parties, Melanthe never failed of making one either in one company or
+other: Louisa, whom that lady still treated with her former kindness, or
+rather with an increase of it, was also seldom absent, and when she was
+so, the fault was wholly her own inclination: but in truth, that hurry of
+incessant diversion, which at first had seemed so ravishing to her young
+and unexperienced mind, began, by a more perfect acquaintance with it, to
+grow tiresome to her, and she rather chose sometimes to retire with a
+favourite book into her closet, than to go to the most elegant
+entertainment.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that her disposition was rather inclined to
+serious than the contrary, and that, joined with the reflections which her
+good understanding was perpetually presenting her with, on the uncertainty
+of her birth, the precariousness of her dependance, and her enforced
+quitting the only person from whom she could expect the means of any solid
+establishment in the world, had rendered her sometimes extremely
+thoughtful, even in the midst of those pleasures that are ordinarily most
+enchanting to one of her sex and age. But as she never was elated with the
+respect paid to her supposed condition, so she never was mortified with
+the consciousness of her real one, to a behaviour such as might have
+degraded the highest birth; neither appearing to expect it, or be covetous
+of honours, nor meanly ashamed of accepting them when offered. And while
+by this prudent management she secured herself from any danger of being
+insulted whenever it should be known who she was, she also gave no
+occasion for any one to make too deep an enquiry into her descent or
+fortune.</p>
+<p>But now the time was arrived when those deficiencies gave her more
+anxiety than hitherto they had done; and love in one moment filled her
+with those repinings at her fate, which neither vanity or ambition would
+ever have had power to do.</p>
+<p>Melanthe here, as at Vienna, received the visits of all whose birth,
+fortune, or accomplishments, gave them a pretence; but there was none who
+paid them so frequently, or which she encouraged with so much pleasure as
+those of the count de Bellfleur, a French nobleman belonging to the
+above-mentioned prince of Conti: she often told Louisa, when they were
+alone, that there was something in the air and manner of behaviour of this
+count, which had so perfect a resemblance with that of Henricus, that tho'
+it reminded her of that once dear and perfidious man, she could not help
+admiring and wishing a frequent sight of him. This was spoke at her first
+acquaintance with him; but after some little time she informed her, that
+he had declared a passion for her. He is not only like Henricus in his
+person, said she, but appears to have the same inclinations also:—he
+pretends to adore me, continued she with a sigh, and spares no vows nor
+presents to assure me of it:—something within tempts me to believe him,
+and yet I fear to be a second time betrayed.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, cried Louisa, in the sincerity of her heart, I beseech you
+to be cautious how you too readily give credit to the protestations of a
+sex, who, by the little observations I have made, take a pride in
+deceiving ours;—besides, the count de Bellfleur is of a nation where
+faith, I have heard, is little to be depended on.</p>
+<p>Those who give them that character, replied Melanthe, do them an
+infinite injustice:—in politics, I allow, they have their artifices,
+their subterfuges, as well as in war; but then they put them in practice
+only against their enemies, or such as are likely to become so:—wherever
+they love, or have a friendship, their generosity is beyond all bounds.—</p>
+<p>She pursued this discourse with a long detail of all she had ever read
+or heard in the praise of the French, and did not forget to speak of the
+prince of Conti as an instance of the gallant spirit with which that
+people are animated.</p>
+<p>Louisa knew her temper, and that it would be in vain to urge any thing
+in contradiction to an inclination she found she was resolved to indulge;
+but she secretly trembled for the consequence, the count having said many
+amorous things to herself before he pretended any passion for Melanthe;
+and tho' he had of late desisted on finding how little she was pleased
+with them, yet that he had done so was sufficient to convince her he was
+of a wavering disposition. Melanthe was not, however, to be trusted with
+this secret; she loved him, and jealousy, added to a good share of vanity,
+would, instead of engaging any grateful return for a discovery of that
+nature, have made her hate the person he had once thought of as worthy of
+coming in any competition with herself. She therefore indeed thought it
+best not to interfere in the matter, but leave the event wholly to chance.</p>
+<p>The evening on the day in which this discourse had past between them,
+they went to a ball, to which they had been invited by one of the
+Magnifico's. The honour of the prince's company had been requested; but he
+excused himself on account, as it was imagined, of his being engaged with
+a certain German lady, who also being absent, gave room for this
+conjecture: most of the gentlemen who had followed his highness from
+France were there, among whom was the count de Bellfleur, and a young
+gentleman called monsieur du Plessis, who, by a fall from his horse, had
+been prevented from appearing in public since his arrival. The
+gracefulness of his person, the gallant manner in which he introduced
+himself, and the brilliant things he said to the ladies, on having been so
+long deprived of the happiness he now enjoyed, very much attracted the
+admiration of the company; but Louisa in particular thought she had never
+seen any thing so perfectly agreeable: a sympathy of sentiment, more than
+accident, made him chuse her for his partner in a grand dance then leading
+up; and the distinction now paid her by him gave her a secret
+satisfaction, which she had never known before on such an occasion, tho'
+often singled out by persons in more eminent stations.</p>
+<p>The mind which, whenever agitated by any degree of pain or pleasure,
+never fails to discover itself in the eyes, now sparkled in those of
+Louisa with an uncommon lustre, nor had less influence over all her
+air:—her motions always perfectly easy, gentle and graceful, especially
+in dancing, were now more spirituous, more alert than usual; and she so
+much excelled herself, that several, who had before praised her skill in
+this exercise, seemed ravished, as if they had seen something new and
+unexpected:—her partner was lavish in the testimonies of his admiration,
+and said, she as much excelled the ladies of his country, as they had been
+allowed to excel all others.</p>
+<p>The encomiums bestowed on her, and more particularly those she received
+from him, still added fresh radiance to her eyes, and at the same time
+diffused a modest blush in her checks which heightened all her
+charms.—Never had she appeared so lovely as at this time; and the count
+de Bellfleur, in spight of his attachment to Melanthe, felt in himself a
+strong propensity to renew those addresses which her reserved behaviour
+alone had made him withdraw and carry to another; but the lady to whom for
+some days past he had made a shew of devoting himself was present, and he
+was ashamed to give so glaring an instance of his infidelity, which must
+in all probability render him the contempt of both.</p>
+<p>This night, however, lost Melanthe the heart she had thought herself so
+secure of; but little suspecting her misfortune, she treated the
+inconstant count with a tenderness he was far from deserving; and having
+transplanted all the affection she once had for Henricus on this new
+object, told him, at a time that such discovery was least welcome to him,
+that she was not insensible of his merit, nor could be ungrateful to his
+passion, provided she could be convinced of the sincerity of it. He had
+gone too far with her now to be able to draw back, therefore could not
+avoid repeating the vows he before had made, tho' his heart was far from
+giving any asient to what his tongue was obliged to utter; but blinded by
+her own desires, she perceived not the change in his, and appointed him to
+come the next day to her lodgings, promising to be denied to all other
+company, that she might devote herself entirely to him.</p>
+<p>It is possible he was so lost in his passion for Louisa, as not to be
+sensible of the condescension made him by Melanthe; but it is certain, by
+the sequel of his behaviour, that he was much less so than he pretended.</p>
+<p>The ball being ended, these ladies carried with them very different
+emotions, tho' neither communicated to the other what she felt. Melanthe
+had a kind of awe for those virtuous principles she observed in Louisa,
+tho' so much her inferior and dependant, and was ashamed to confess her
+liking of the count should have brought her to such lengths; not that she
+intended to keep it always a secret from her, but chose she should find it
+out by degrees; and these thoughts so much engrossed her, that she said
+little to her that night. Louisa, for her part, having lost the presence
+of her agreeable partner, was busy in supplying that deficiency with the
+idea of him; so that each having meditations of her own of the most
+interesting nature, had not leisure to observe the thoughtfulness of the
+other, much less to enquire the motive of it.</p>
+<p>One of the great reasons that we find love so irresistable, is, that it
+enters into the heart with so much subtilty, that it is not to be
+perceived till it has gathered too much strength to be repulsed. If Louisa
+had imagined herself in any danger from the merits of monsieur du Plessis,
+she would at least have been less easily overcome by them:—she had been
+accustomed to be pleased with the conversation of many who had entertained
+her as he had done, but thought no more of them, or any thing they said,
+when out of their company; but it was otherways with her now: not a word
+he had spoke, not a glance he had given, but was imprinted in her
+mind:—her memory ran over every little action a thousand and a thousand
+times, and represented all as augmented with some grace peculiar to
+himself, and infinitely superior to any thing she had ever seen:—not even
+sleep could shut him out;—thro' her closed eyes she saw the pleasing
+vision; and fancy, active in the cause of love, formed new and various
+scenes, which to her waking thoughts were wholly strangers.</p>
+<p>Melanthe also past the night in ideas which, tho' experienced in, were
+not less ravishing: she was not of a temper to put any constraint on her
+inclinations; and having entertained the most amorous ones for the count
+de Bellfleur, easily overcame all scruples that might have hindered the
+gratification of them:—her head ran on the appointment she had made
+him:—the means she would take to engage his constancy,—resolved to sell
+the reversion of her jointure and accompany him to France, and flattered
+herself with the most pleasing images of a long series of continued
+happiness in the arms of him, who was now all to her that Henricus ever
+had been.</p>
+<p>Full of these meditations she rose, and soon after received from the
+subject of them a billet, containing these words: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the charming</i> MELANTHE. <br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+"Tho' the transporting promise you made<br/>
+me of refusing admittance to all company<br/>
+but mine, is a new instance of your goodness,<br/>
+yet I cannot but think we should be still more<br/>
+secure from interruption at a place I have taken<br/>
+care to provide. Might I therefore hope you<br/>
+would vouchsafe to meet me about five in the<br/>
+evening at the dome of St. Mark, I shall be<br/>
+ready with a Gondula to conduct you to a recess,<br/>
+which seems formed by the god of love himself<br/>
+for the temple of his purest offerings, than which<br/>
+which none can be offered with greater passion<br/>
+and sincerity than those of the adorable Melanthe's<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most devoted, and<br/>
+Everlasting Slave</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+DE BELLFLEUR.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i>. To prevent your fair friend Louisa from<br/>
+any suspicion on account of being left at<br/>
+home, I have engaged a gentleman to make<br/>
+her a visit in form, just before the time of<br/>
+your coming out:—favour me, I beseech<br/>
+you, with knowing if my contrivances in<br/>
+both these points have the sanction of your<br/>
+approbation."</p>
+<p>Tho' Melanthe, as may have been already observed in the foregoing part
+of her character, was no slave to reputation in England, and thought
+herself much less obliged to be so in a place where she was a stranger,
+and among people who, when she once quitted, she might probably never see
+again, yet she looked on this caution in her lover as a new proof of his
+sincerity and regard for her. She was also fond of every thing that had an
+air of luxury, and doubted not to find the elegance of the French taste in
+the entertainment he would cause to be prepared for her reception,
+therefore hesitated not a moment to send him the following answer: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the engaging count</i> DE BELLFLEUR.<br/>
+<br/>
+"Sensible, as you are, of the ascendant your<br/>
+merits have gained over me, you cannot<br/>
+doubt of my compliance with every thing that seems<br/>
+reasonable to you:—I will not fail to be<br/>
+at the place you mention; but oh! my dear<br/>
+count, I hope you will never give me cause to<br/>
+repent this step;—if you should, I must be<br/>
+the most miserable of all created beings; but I<br/>
+am resolved to believe you are all that man ought<br/>
+to be, or that fond tenacious woman can desire;<br/>
+and in that confidence attend with impatience<br/>
+the hour in which there shall be no more reserve<br/>
+between us, and I be wholly yours.<br/>
+<br/>
+MELANTHE."</p>
+<p>Thus every thing being fixed for her undoing, she spent the best part
+of the day in preparing for the rendezvous: nothing was omitted in the
+article of dress, which might heighten her charms and secure her
+conquest:—the glass was consulted every moment, and every look and
+various kind of languishment essayed, in order to continue in that which
+she thought would most become the occasion. As she ordinarily past a great
+deal of time in this employment, Louisa was not surprized that she now
+wasted somewhat more than usual; and the discourse they had together while
+she was dressing, and all the time of dinner, being very much on the ball
+and the company who were at it, her thoughts were so much taken up with
+the remembrance of du Plessis, that she perceived not the hurry of spirits
+which would else have been visible enough to her in all the words and
+motions of the other, and which increased in proportion as the hour of her
+appointment drew nearer.</p>
+<p>At length it arrived, and a servant came into the room and acquainted
+Louisa a gentleman desired to speak with her; she was a little surprized,
+it being usual for all those who visited there to expect their reception
+from Melanthe; but that lady, who doubted not but it was the same person
+the count had mentioned in his letter, prevented her from saying any
+thing, by immediately giving orders for the gentleman to be admitted.</p>
+<p>But with what strange emotions was the heart of Louisa agitated, when
+she saw monsieur du Plessis come into the room! and after paying his
+respects to Melanthe in the most submissive manner, accosted her, with
+saying he took the liberty of enquiring of her health after the fatigue of
+the last night; but, added he, the question, now I have the happiness of
+seeing you, is altogether needless; those fine eyes, and that sprightly
+air, declare you formed for everlasting gaiety, and that what is apt to
+throw the spirits of others into a languor, serves but to render yours
+more sparkling.</p>
+<p>Louisa, in spite of the confusion she felt within, answered this
+compliment with her accustomed ease; and being all seated, they began to
+enter into some conversation concerning the state with which the
+Magnifico's of Venice are served, the elegance with which they entertain
+strangers, and some other topics relating to the customs of that republic,
+when all on a sudden Melanthe starting up, cried, bless me! I had forgot a
+little visit was in my head to make to a monastery hard by:—you will
+excuse me, monsieur, continued she, I leave your partner to entertain you,
+and fancy you two may find sufficient matter of conversation without a
+third person. She had no sooner spoke this than she went out of the room,
+and left Louisa at a loss how to account for this behaviour, as she had
+not before mentioned any thing of going abroad. She would have imagined
+her vanity had been picqued that monsieur du Plessis had particularized
+her in this visit; but as she seemed in perfect good humour at going away,
+and knew she thought it beneath her to put any disguise on her sentiments,
+she was certain this sudden motion must have proceeded from some other
+cause, which as yet she could form no conjecture of.</p>
+<p>This deceived lady, however, was no sooner out of the room, than
+monsieur du Plessis drawing nearer to Louisa, how hard is my fate, madame,
+said he, in a low voice, that I am compelled to tell you any other motive
+than my own inclination has occasioned my waiting on you:—heaven knows it
+is an honour I should have sought by the lowest submissions, and all the
+ways that would not have rendered me unworthy of it; but I now come,
+madame, not as myself, but as the ambassador of another, and am engaged by
+my word and honour to plead a cause which, if I succeed in, must be my own
+destruction.</p>
+<p>Louisa was in the utmost consternation at the mystery which seemed
+contained in these words: she looked earnestly upon him while he was
+uttering the latter part, and saw all the tokens of a serious perplexity
+in his countenance, as well as in the accents with which he delivered
+them; but not being willing to be the dupe of his diversion, thought it
+best to answer as to a piece of railery, and told him, laughing, she
+imagined this was some new invention of the frolics of the season, but
+that she was a downright English-woman, understood nothing beyond plain
+speaking, and could no ways solve the riddle he proposed.</p>
+<p>What I say, may doubtless appear so, madame; replied she, and I could
+wish it had not been my part to give the explanation; but I cannot
+dispense with the promise I have made, and must therefore acquaint you
+with the history of it.</p>
+<p>After the ball, continued he, monsieur the count de Bellfleur desired
+me to accompany him to his lodgings, and, as soon as we were alone, told
+me, he had a little secret to acquaint me with, but that, before he
+revealed it, he must have the promise of my assistance. As he spoke this
+with a gay and negligent air, I imagined it a thing of no great
+consequence, or if it were, he was a man of too much honour, and also knew
+me too well to desire or expect I would engage in any thing unbecoming
+that character: indeed I could think of nothing but an amour or a duel,
+tho' I was far from being able to guess of what service I could be to him
+in the former. I was, however, unwarily drawn in to give my word, and he
+then made me the confident of a passion, which, he said, had received its
+birth from the first moment he beheld the Belle Angloise, for by that
+term, pursued he, bowing, he distinguished the adorable Louisa: that he
+had made some discovery of his flame, but that finding; himself rejected,
+as he thought, in too severe a manner, and without affording him
+opportunity to attest his sincerity, he had converted his addresses, tho'
+not his passion, to a lady who, he perceived, had the care of her, acting
+in this manner, partly thro' picque at your disdain, and partly to gratify
+his eyes with the sight of you, which he has reason to fear you had
+totally deprived him of but for this stratagem. He confessed to me that he
+found the object of his pretended ardours infinitely more kind than she
+who inspires the real ones: but this gratification of his vanity is of
+little consequence to his peace;—he engaged me to attend you this day, to
+conjure you to believe his heart is incapable of being influenced by any
+other charms, and whatever he makes shew of to Melanthe, his heart is
+devoted wholly to you,—begs you to permit him to entertain you without
+the presence of that lady, the means of which he will take care to
+contrive; and charged me to assure you, that there is no sacrifice so
+great, but he will readily offer it to convince you of the sincerity of
+his attachment.</p>
+<p>This, madame, added he, is the unpleasing task my promise bound me to
+perform, and which I have acquitted myself of with the same pain that man
+would do who, by some strange caprice of fate, was constrained to throw
+into the sea the sum of all his hopes.</p>
+<p>The indignation which filled the virtuous foul of Louisa, while he was
+giving her this detail of the count's presumption, falsehood, and
+ingratitude, prevented her from giving much attention to the apology with
+which he concluded. Never, since the behaviour of mr. B——n at mrs.
+C—g—'s, had she met with any thing that she thought so much merited her
+resentment:—so great was her disdain she had not words to express it, but
+by some tears, which the rising passion forced from her eyes:—Heaven!
+cried she, which of my actions has drawn on me this unworthy
+treatment?—This was all she was able to utter, while she walked backward
+and forward in the room endeavouring to compose herself, and form some
+answer befitting of the message.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis looked on her all this while with admiration: all
+that seemed lovely in her, when he knew no more of her than that she was
+young and beautiful, was now heightened in his eyes almost to divine, by
+that virtuous pride which shewed him some part of her more charming mind.
+What he extremely liked before, he now almost adored; and having, by the
+loose manner in which the count had mentioned these two English ladies,
+imagined them women of not over-rigid principles, now finding his mistake,
+at least as concerning one of them, was so much ashamed and angry with
+himself for having been the cause of that disorder he was witness of, that
+he for some moments was equally at a loss to appease, as she who felt was
+to express it.</p>
+<p>But being the first that recovered presence of mind; madame, I beseech
+you, said he, involve not the innocent with the guilty:—I acknowledge you
+have reason to resent the boldness of the count; but I am no otherwise a
+sharer in his crime than in reporting it; and if you knew the pain it gave
+my heart while I complied with the promise I was unhappily betrayed into,
+I am sure you would forgive the misdemeanor of my tongue.</p>
+<p>Sir, answered she, I can easily forgive the slight opinion one so much
+a stranger to me as yourself may have of me; but monsieur the count has
+been a constant visitor to the lady I am with, ever since our arrival at
+Venice; and am very certain he never found any thing in my behaviour to
+him or any other person, which could justly encourage him to send me such
+a message:—a message, indeed, equally affrontive to himself, since it
+shews him a composition of arrogance, vanity, perfidy, and every thing
+that is contemptible in man.—This, sir, is the reply I send him, and
+desire you to tell him withal, that if he persists in giving me any
+farther trouble of this nature, I shall let him know my sense of it in the
+presence of Melanthe.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis then assured her he would be no less exact in
+delivering what she said, than he had been in the observance of his
+promise to the other, and conjured her to believe he should do it with
+infinite more satisfaction. He then made use of so many arguments to
+prove, that a man of honour ought not to falsify his word, tho' given to
+an unworthy person, that she was at last won to forgive his having
+undertaken to mention any thing to her of the nature he had done.</p>
+<p>Indeed, the agitations she had been in were more owing to the vexation
+that monsieur du Plessis was the person employed, than that the count had
+the boldness to apply to her in this manner; but the submission she found
+herself treated with by the former, convincing her that he had sentiments
+very different from those the other had entertained of her, rendered her
+more easy, and she not only forgave his share in the business which had
+brought him there, but also permitted him to repeat his visits, on
+condition he never gave her any cause to suspect the mean opinion the
+count had of her conduct had any influence on him.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable passion for her: her
+sentiments and way of acting on that occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>After the departure of monsieur du Plessis, Louisa fell into a serious
+consideration of what had passed between them: not all the regard, which
+she could not hinder herself from feeling for that young gentleman, nor
+the pleasure she took in reflecting on the respect he paid her, made her
+unmindful of what she owed Melanthe: the many obligations she had received
+from her, and the friendship she had for her in return, made her think she
+ought to acquaint her with the baseness of the count de Bellfleur, in
+order to prevent an affection which she found she had already too much
+indulged from influencing her to grant him any farther favours; but this
+she knew was a very critical point to manage, and was not without some
+apprehensions, which afterward she experienced were but too well grounded;
+that when that lady found herself obliged to hate the man she took
+pleasure in loving, she would also hate the woman who was the innocent
+occasion of it. Few in the circumstances Louisa was, but would have been
+swayed by this consideration, and chose rather to see another become the
+prey of perfidy and deceit, than fall the victim of jealousy herself; but
+the generosity of her nature would not suffer it to have any weight with
+her, and she thought she could be more easy under any misfortunes the
+discovery might involve her in, than in the consciousness of not having
+discharged the obligations of duty and gratitude in revealing what seemed
+so necessary to be known.</p>
+<p>With this resolution, finding Melanthe was not come home, she went into
+her chamber in order to wait her return, and relate the whole history to
+her as she should undress for bed. But hour after hour elapsing without
+any appearance of the person she expected, she thought to beguile the
+tedious time by reading; and remembering that Melanthe had a very
+agreeable book in her hand that morning, she opened a drawer, where she
+knew that lady was accustomed to throw any thing in, which she had no
+occasion to conceal; but how great was her surprise when, instead of what
+she sought, she found the letter from count de Bellfleur which Melanthe,
+in the hurry of spirits, had forgot to lock up. As it lay open and was
+from him, she thought it no breach of honour to examine the contents, but
+in doing so was ready to faint away between grief and astonishment.</p>
+<p>She was not insensible that Melanthe was charmed with this new lover,
+and had always feared her liking him would sway her to some imprudencies,
+but could not have imagined it would have carried her, at least so soon,
+to such a guilty length as she now found it did.</p>
+<p>Convinced by the hour in which she went out, and alone, that she had
+complied with the appointment, and that all she would have endeavoured to
+prevent was already come to pass, she now considered that the discovery
+she had to make would only render this indiscreet lady more unhappy, and
+therefore no longer thought herself obliged to run any risque of incuring
+her ill-will on the occasion; but in her soul extremely lamented this
+second fall from virtue, which it was impossible should not bring on
+consequences equally, if not more shameful than the first.</p>
+<p>Good God! cried she, how is it possible for a woman of any share of
+sense, and who has been blessed with a suitable education, to run thus
+counter to all the principles of religion, honour, virtue, modesty, and
+all that is valuable in our sex? and yet that many do, I have been a
+melancholy witness:—and then again, what is there in this love, resumed
+she, that so infatuates the understanding, that we doat on our dishonour,
+and think ruin pleasing?—Can any personal perfections in a man attone for
+the contempt he treats us with in courting us to infamy!—the mean opinion
+he testifies to have of us sure ought rather to excite hate than love; our
+very pride, methinks, should be a sufficient guard, and turn whatever
+favourable thoughts we might have of such a one, unknowing his design,
+into aversion, when once convinced he presumed upon our weakness.</p>
+<p>In these kind of reasonings did she continue some time; but reflecting
+that the trouble she was in might put Melanthe on asking the cause, it
+seemed best to her to avoid seeing her that night, so retired to her own
+room and went to bed, ordering the servants to tell their lady, in case
+she enquired for her, that she was a little indisposed.</p>
+<p>While Louisa was thus deploring a misfortune she wanted power to
+remedy, the person for whom she was concerned past her time in a far
+different manner: the count omitted nothing that might convince her of his
+gallantry, and give her a pretence for flattering herself with his
+sincerity:—he swore ten thousand oaths of constancy, and she easily gave
+credit to what she wished and had vanity enough to think she merited:—he
+had prepared every thing that could delight the senses for her reception
+at the house to which he carried her; and she found in herself so little
+inclination to quit the pleasures she enjoyed, that it was as much as the
+little remains of decency and care of reputation could do, to make her
+tear herself away before midnight.</p>
+<p>In the fullness of her heart she had doubtless concealed no part of
+this adventure from Louisa, but on hearing she was gone to rest, and not
+very well, would not disturb her. The first thing she did in the morning
+was to run into the chamber and enquire after her health, which she did
+in so affectionate and tender a manner, that it very much heightened the
+other's trouble for her.</p>
+<p>It is certain that, setting aside too loose a way of thinking of virtue
+and religion, and adhering to that false maxim, that a woman of rank is
+above censure, Melanthe had many amiable qualities, and as she truly loved
+Louisa, was alarmed at her supposed indisposition, which, to conceal the
+perplexity her mind was in, she still continued to counterfeit, as well as
+to avoid going to a masquerade, to which they had some days before been
+invited, and which the present situation of her thoughts left her no
+relish for.</p>
+<p>Melanthe would fain have perswaded her that this diversion would
+contribute to restoring her; but she entreated to be excused, and the
+other went without her.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis in the mean time having informed the count de
+Bellfleur, how much it was in vain for him to flatter himself with any
+hopes of Louisa, that proud and inconstant nobleman was extremely
+mortified, and said, that since she was so haughty, he was resolved to
+contrive some way or other to get her into his power, as well out of
+revenge as inclination. This, the other represented to him, would be a
+very ungenerous way of proceeding; and said, that as she refused his
+addresses merely out of a principle of virtue, and not for the sake of a
+more favoured rival, he ought to content himself; but these arguments were
+lost on a man whom pride of blood, and an affluence of fortune, had
+rendered too insolent and head-strong to think any thing reason which
+opposed his will; and they parted not well satisfied with each other,
+tho' du Plessis concealed part of the dislike he had of his principles and
+manner of behaviour, on account of a long friendship between their
+families, and also as the count was his superior in birth, in years, and
+in the post he held in the army.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner left him than he came to Louisa, thinking it his duty
+to give her warning of the count's design, and that it would be a proper
+prelude to something else he had to say. As the servants knew she was not
+perfectly well, they told him, they believed she would see no company; but
+on his entreating it, and saying he had something of moment to impart, one
+of them went in and repeated what he had said, on which she gave leave for
+his admission.</p>
+<p>He rejoiced to find her alone, as he came prepared to reveal to her
+more secrets than that of the count's menace; but the pleasure he took in
+having so favourable an opportunity was very much damped, by seeing her
+look more pale than usual, and that she was in a night-dress. Fearful that
+this change proceeded from what had passed between them the day before, he
+asked with a hastiness, that shewed the most kind concern, if she were
+well. No otherways disordered, answered she, than in my mind, and that not
+sufficiently to have any effect over my health; but to confess the truth,
+monsieur, said she, the continual round of diversion this carnival
+affords, has made what the world calls pleasure, cease to be so with me;
+and I find more solid satisfaction in retirement, where I am in no danger
+of being too much flattered or affronted.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, cried he, I see the audacity of the count dwells too much
+upon your thoughts, and tremble to relate the business on which I came,
+and which it is yet necessary you should know. You mistake me, monsieur,
+replied she; a common foe of virtue, such as the count, is incapable of
+taking up my thoughts one moment; it is only those I love can give me real
+pain.</p>
+<p>I understand you, madam, resumed he, and am too much interested in your
+concern not to simpathize on the occasion: the misfortunes, such as I fear
+will attend the too great sensibility of Melanthe, may give you so
+terrible an idea of love in general, that it will be difficult to persuade
+you there can be any lasting happiness to be found in that passion:—but,
+charming Louisa, continued he, if you will make the least use of your
+penetration, and examine with a desire of being convinced, you will easily
+distinguish the real passion from the counterfeit: that love, whose
+supremest pleasure is in being capable to give felicity to the beloved
+object; and that wild desire, which aims at no more than a
+self-gratification:—the one has the authority of heaven for its
+sanction;—the other no excuse but nature in its depravity. From all
+attempts of the one, I am confident, your virtue and good sense will
+always defend you; but to fly with too great obstinacy the other, is not
+to answer the end of your creation; and deny yourself a blessing, which
+you seem formed to enjoy in the most extensive degree.</p>
+<p>Both the voice and manner in which monsieur du Plessis spoke, gave
+Louisa some suspicion of what he aimed at in this definition, and filled
+her at the same time with emotions of various kinds; but dissembling them
+as well as she could, and endeavouring to turn what he said into raillery,
+you argue very learnedly on this subject, it must be confessed, answered
+she smiling; but all you can urge on that head, nor the compliment you
+make me, can win me to believe that love of any kind is not attended with
+more mischief than good:—where it is accompanied with the strictest
+honour, constancy, purity, and all the requisites that constitute what is
+called a perfect passion, there are ordinarily so many difficulties in the
+way to the completion of its wishes, that the breast which harbours it
+must endure a continual agitation, which surely none would chuse to be
+involved in.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, how little are you capable of judging of this passion, said
+he; there is a delicacy in love which renders even its pains pleasing, and
+how much soever a lover suffers, the thoughts of for whom he suffers is
+more than a compensation; I am myself an instance of this truth:—I am a
+lover:—conscious unworthiness of a suitable return of affection, and a
+thousand other impediments lie between me and hope, yet would I not change
+this dear anxiety for that insipid case I lived in before I saw the only
+object capable of making me a convert to love.—It is certain my passion
+is yet young; but a few days has given it root which no time, no absence,
+no misfortune ever can dislodge.—The charming maid is ignorant of her
+conquest:—the carnival draws near to a conclusion.—I must return to the
+army, and these cruel circumstances oblige me either to make a declaration
+which she may possibly condemn as too abrupt, or go and leave her
+unknowing of my heart, and thereby deprive myself even of her pity:—Which
+party, madam, shall I take?—Will the severe extreme, to which I am
+driven, be sufficient to attone for a presumption which else would merit
+her disdain?</p>
+<p>Louisa must have been as dull as she was really the contrary, not to
+have known all this was meant to herself; and the pleasing confusion which
+this discovery infused thro' all her veins, made her at the same time
+sensible of the difference she put between him and all those who before
+had entertained her on that subject; but not knowing presently whether she
+ought to attribute it to her good or ill fortune, she was wholly at a loss
+how to behave, and, to avoid giving any direct answer, still affected an
+air of pleasantry.</p>
+<p>See, cried she, the little reason you, have to speak in the praise of
+love; for if pity be all you have to hope for from your, mistress, I am
+afraid the consolation will be no way adequate to the misfortune.</p>
+<p>Yet if you vouchsafe me that, replied he, kissing her hard, I never
+shall complain. Me! interrupted she, pretending the utmost astonishment,
+and drawing her chair somewhat farther from him. Yes, beautiful Louisa,
+resumed he; it is you alone who have been capable of teaching me what love
+truly is:—your eyes, at first sight, subdued my heart; but your virtue
+has since made a conquest of my soul:—if I dare hope to make you mine, it
+is only by such ways as heaven, and those who have the power of disposing
+you, shall approve:—in the mean time I implore no more than your
+permission to admire you, and to convince you, by all the honourable
+services in my power to do you while you continue here, how much my words
+are deficient to denote my meaning.</p>
+<p>Louisa, now finding herself under a necessity of answering seriously,
+told him, that if it were true that he had sentiments for her of the
+nature he pretended, they would not only merit, but receive the most
+grateful acknowledgments on her part; but at the same time she should be
+sorry he had entertained them, and would wish him not to indulge a
+prospect which could last no longer than while both remained in Venice,
+and must infallibly vanish on their separation.</p>
+<p>No, madam, replied he, when the next campaign is over, I shall return
+to France; and sure the distance between that kingdom and England is not
+so great, but a less motive than yourself would easily carry me thither;
+and such credentials also of who, and what I am, as, I flatter myself,
+would not appear contemptible in the eyes of your friends:—the prospect
+therefore is not so visionary as you seem to think, provided I have your
+consent.</p>
+<p>The mention he made of her friends reminding her of her destitute
+condition, gave her the utmost shock; which not being able to overcome,
+she remained silent some moments; but at last perceiving he waited her
+reply, monsieur, said she, there may be a thousand indissoluble bars
+between us which you do not think of.</p>
+<p>None, interrupted he eagerly, but what such love as mine will easily
+surmount:—it is true, I am ignorant of your condition in the world; but
+if it be superior to mine, the passion I am possessed of will inspire me
+with means to raise me to an equality; and if inferior, which heaven grant
+may be the case, it will only give the opportunity of proving that I love
+Louisa for Louisa's self, and look upon every thing she brings beside as
+nothing.</p>
+<p>The emphasis he gave these words manifesting their sincerity, could not
+but give new charms to the person who spoke them: Louisa thought she
+might, without a blush, testify the sense she had of his generosity; but
+tho' what she said was perfectly obliging to him, yet she concluded with
+letting him know, there still was something that rendered the
+accomplishment of what he seemed to wish impossible.</p>
+<p>Then your heart already is engaged, cried he, or you are predestined by
+your parents to some happier man? Without either of these, answered she,
+there may be reasons to prevent our ever meeting more;—therefore I owe so
+much to the honourable offers you are pleased to make me, as to wish you
+to overcome whatever inclinations you may have for one who I once more
+assure you never can be yours.</p>
+<p>It would be impossible to express the distraction monsieur du Plessis
+testified at this expression:—a thousand times over did he repeat that
+dreadful word NEVER;—then added, neither engaged by love or promise, yet
+never can be mine! does my ill fate come wrap'd to me in riddles!—yet
+many things have seemed impossible that are not so in themselves:—O
+Louisa! continued he, if there be any thing beside my want of merit that
+impedes my wishes, and you delight not in my torment, speak it I conjure
+you.</p>
+<p>There is a necessity of denying you in this also, said Louisa; but to
+shew you how little I am inclined to be ungrateful, be certain that I have
+the highest idea of your merits, and prize them as much as I ought to do.</p>
+<p>These last words, obliging as they were, could not console monsieur du
+Plessis for the cruelty, as he termed it, of refusing to let him know what
+this invincible obstacle was which put a stop to any further
+correspondence between them: he spared neither prayers nor tears to draw
+the secret from her, but all were ineffectual; and she at last told him,
+that if he pressed her any farther on that head, she must for the future
+avoid his presence.</p>
+<p>This was a menace which he had not courage to dare the execution of,
+and he promised to conform to her will, tho' with such agonies, as shewed
+her how much he valued even the little she was pleased to grant; but it
+was not in the power of her perswasions to prevail on him to resolve to
+make any efforts for the vanquishing his passion; he still protested that
+he neither could cease to love her, and her alone, nor even to wish an
+alteration in his sentiments.</p>
+<p>By what has been already said of the extreme liking which the first
+fight of this young gentleman inspired Louisa with, it may easily be
+supposed she could not hear his complaints, and be witness of the
+anxieties she was enforced to inflict on him, without feeling at least an
+equal share: she endeavoured not to conceal the pity she had for him; but
+he now found that was far from being all he wanted, because it forwarded
+not, as he at first imagined, the progress of his hopes, but rather shewed
+them at more distance than ever.</p>
+<p>The business of his love so engrossed his thoughts during this visit,
+that he almost forgot to mention any thing of the count's designs upon
+her, and she as little remembered to remind him of it, tho' he told her on
+his entrance, that he had something to acquaint her with on his subject,
+and it was not till he was going to take leave that it came into his head.
+When he had related it to her, she assured him that she took the caution
+he gave her as a new proof of his friendship, which, said she, I shall
+always prize. At parting, she permitted him to salute her, and gave her
+promise not to refuse seeing him while they continued in that city; but
+told him at the same time, that he must not expect any thing from his
+repeated visits more than she had already granted.</p>
+<p>He durst not at that time press her any farther, but fetched a deep
+sigh as he went out of the room, accompanied with a look more expressive
+than any words could be of the discontent he laboured under, while she,
+oppressed beneath the double weight of his and her own grief, remained in
+a condition he was little able to form any conjecture of.</p>
+<p>Pleased as she was with the presence of the only man who had ever had
+power of inspiring her with one tender thought, yet a thousand times she
+had wished him gone before he went, that she might be at liberty to give
+vent to the struggling passions which were more than once ready to throw
+her into a swoon. The perfections she saw in the person of her lover;—the
+respect he treated her with, notwithstanding the violence of the passion
+he was possessed of;—the sincerity that appeared in all his looks and
+words;—the generosity of his behaviour in regard to her fortune;—all the
+qualifications that would have made any other woman blessed in the offer
+of such a heart, served but to make her wretched, since she could not look
+on herself in a condition capable of accepting it.</p>
+<p>Alas! du Plessis, cried she, little do you think to whom you would ally
+yourself:—you would, you say, despise a portion, but would you marry a
+foundling, a child of charity, one that has neither name nor friends, and
+who, in her best circumstances, is but a poor dependant, a servant in
+effect, tho' not in shew, and owes her very cloaths to the bounty of
+another?—Oh! why did the mistaken goodness of Dorilaus give me any other
+education than such as befitted my wretched fortune! Better I had been
+bred an humble drudge, and never been taught how to distinguish
+merit:—What avail the accomplishments that cost him so much money, and me
+so much pains to acquire, but to attract a short-liv'd admiration, which,
+when I am truly known, will be succeeded with an adequate derision:—Could
+I but say I was descended from honest, tho' mean parents, I would not
+murmur at my fate, but I have none,—none to own me;—I am a nothing,—a
+kind of reptile in humanity, and have been shewn in a genteel way of life
+only to make my native misery more conspicuous.</p>
+<p>Thus did love represent her unhappy circumstances in their worst
+colours, and render her, which till now she had never been, thankless to
+heaven for all the good she had received, since it seemed to deny her the
+only good her passion coveted, that of being in a condition to reward the
+affection of her dear du Plessis.</p>
+<p>A torrent of tears at length somewhat mitigated the violence of her
+passion, and unwilling to be seen by Melanthe in the present confusion of
+her thoughts, she went to bed, leaving the same orders as she had done the
+night before.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The base designs of the count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy
+change in Louisa's way of life; the generous behaviour of monsieur du
+Plessis on that occasion.</i></p>
+<p>Had the agonies Louisa suffered been of very long continuance, she
+must have sunk under them; but grief is easily dissipated in a young
+heart, and she awoke more tranquil.—The principles of religion grew
+stronger as her passion weaker, and she reflected that she ought to submit
+in every thing to the will of heaven, which sometimes converts what seems
+the greatest evil into good.—The offer of such a match as monsieur du
+Plessis, a man she loved, and who was master of accomplishments which
+might excuse the most violent passion, appeared indeed a happiness she
+would have gloried in had she been really such as he took her for; but
+then she had known him but a very short time, had no experience of his
+principles or humour; and tho' he seemed all honour, could not assure
+herself that the generosity which so much engaged her might not be all
+artifice; at least she found to think so would most contribute to her
+ease, therefore indulged it as much as she was able. She condemned herself
+for having given monsieur du Plessis permission to continue his visits,
+after having assured him he had nothing to hope from them, because a
+further conversation might only serve to render both more unhappy. She
+resolved however to give him no opportunity of talking to her of his
+passion, and in order to avoid thinking of it herself as much as possible,
+to go, as usual, into all company that came to Melanthe, and partake of
+every diversion that offered itself.</p>
+<p>Accordingly she forced herself to a gaiety, she was far from feeling,
+vainly imagining that by counterfeiting a chearfulness, she should in time
+be able to resume it; but du Plessis hung too heavy at her heart, and when
+she affected the greatest shew of mirth, it was often interrupted with
+sighs, which she was not always sensible of herself. He visited her almost
+every day under one pretence or other; but she took such care never to be
+alone at the times that she could possibly expect him, that he had not the
+least opportunity to renew his addresses, any otherways than by his looks,
+which, notwithstanding, were perfectly intelligible to her, tho' she
+seemed not to observe them.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, no longer able to keep the secret of her amour, finding
+Louisa, as she thought, had entirely regained her former sprightliness,
+acquainted her with all had passed between herself and count de Bellfleur;
+which, tho' the other was no stranger to, she seemed astonished at, and
+could not help telling her, that she feared the consequence of an intrigue
+of that nature would one day be fatal to her peace. Yet, said Melanthe,
+where one loves, and is beloved, it is hard to deny oneself a certain
+happiness for the dread of an imaginary ill.—In fine, my dear Louisa, I
+found I could not live without him; and heaven will sure excuse the error
+of an inclination which is born with us, and which not all our reason is
+of force to conquer.—But, added she, you always seem to speak of the
+count, as of a man that wanted charms to excuse the tenderness I have for
+him; and, I have observed, deny him those praises which I have heard you
+bestow very freely on persons that have not half his merit.</p>
+<p>Louisa knowing how vain it was to contest with inclination, in persons
+who are resolved to indulge it, and also that all advice was now too late,
+began to repent of what she said. If, madam, replied she, after a little
+pause, I have seemed unjust to the count's perfections, it was only
+because I feared you were but too sensible of them; for otherwise, it must
+be owned, he has a person and behaviour extremely engaging; but as the
+carnival will put an end to all the acquaintance we have contracted here,
+it gives me pain to think how you will support a separation.</p>
+<p>Perhaps it may not happen so soon as you imagine, said Melanthe:—tho'
+the carnival, and with it all the pleasures of this place will soon be
+over, our loves may be continued elsewhere:—suppose, Louisa, we go to
+France, added she with a significant smile, that shewed it was her
+intention to do so.</p>
+<p>Some company coming in, prevented any farther discourse on this head
+for the present; but afterward she confirmed what she had now hinted at,
+and told Louisa, that she had resolved to pass some little time in seeing
+those places which were in her way to France, and afterwards meet the
+count at Paris, on his return from the campaign. Louisa, unable to
+determine within herself whether she ought to rejoice, or be sad at this
+intended journey, fell into a sudden thoughtfulness, which the other at
+that time took no notice of, but it served afterwards to corroborate the
+truth of something she was told, and proved of consequence little to be
+foreseen.</p>
+<p>The inconstant count, in the mean time, satieted with Melanthe, and as
+much in love with Louisa as a man of his temper could be, was contriving
+all the ways his inventive wit could furnish him with to get handsomely
+rid of the one, and attain the enjoyment of the other. As he had spent
+many years in a continual course of gallantry, and had made and broke a
+thousand engagements, he easily found expedients for throwing off his
+intercourse with Melanthe, but none that could give him the least prospect
+of success in his designs on Louisa while they lived together and
+continued friends: to part them therefore was his aim, and to accomplish
+it the following method came into his head.</p>
+<p>On his first acquaintance with these ladies his design was wholly on
+Louisa, but meeting a rebuff from her, his vanity rather than his
+inclinations had made him turn his devoirs to Melanthe, who too easily
+yielding to his suit, served but to heighten his desires for the other:
+the extravagant fondness of that unhappy woman rendering her visibly
+uneasy at even the ordinary civilities she saw him behave with to any
+other, discovered to him that jealousy was not the least reigning foible
+of her foul, and the surest means to make her hate that person whom it
+was not the interest of his passion she should continue to love. When they
+were alone together one day at the place of their usual rendezvous, in the
+midst of the most tender endearments, he asked suddenly if she had ever
+made Louisa the confident of his happiness. She was a little surprized at
+the question, but answered that she had not, and desired to know the
+reason of that demand; because, cried he, I am very certain she is no
+friend to our loves; and by the manner in which she behaves to me,
+whenever she has the least opportunity of shewing her ill humour, I
+imagined she either knew or suspected the affair between us.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, conscious she had hid nothing from her, and also sensible of
+the little approbation she gave to her intrigue, was very much picqued
+that she should have done any thing to make the count perceive
+it;—whatever she suspects, cried she, haughtily, she ought not to treat
+with any ill manners a person whom I avow a friendship for. Vanity,
+answered he, sometimes gets the better of discretion in ladies of her
+years:—she knows herself handsome, and cannot have a good opinion of the
+man who prefers any charms to her own.—I imagine this to be the cause why
+she looks on me with such disdain, and, whenever you are not witness of
+her words, is so keen in satyrical reflections.—On our first acquaintance
+she looked and spoke with greater softness, and I can impute it to no
+other motive than the pride of beauty, that this sudden change has
+happened.</p>
+<p>All the time he was speaking, the soul of Melanthe grew more and more
+fired with jealousy.—It is natural for every one to imagine whatever they
+like is agreeable to others. The distaste which Louisa had on many
+occasions testified for the count, seemed now to have been only
+affected:—the melancholy she had been in, and the deep resvery she
+remembered she had fallen into when first she informed her of their amour,
+joined to convince her, that the advice she gave proceeded from a motive
+very different from what she pretended.</p>
+<p>The wily count saw into the workings of her soul; and while he seemed
+as if he would not discover the whole of his sentiments for fear of
+disobliging her, threw out the plainest hints, that Louisa had made him
+advances which would have been very flattering to a heart not pre-engaged,
+till Melanthe, not able to contain her rage, broke out into the fevered
+invectives against the innocent Louisa.—The ungrateful wretch! cried she,
+how dare she presume to envy, much less to offer an interruption to my
+pleasures!—What, have I raised the little wretch to such a forgetfulness
+of herself, that she pretends to rival her mistress and benefactress! In
+the height of her resentment, she related to the count in what manner she
+had taken her into her service; but that finding her, as she imagined, a
+girl of prudence, she had made her a companion during her travels, and as
+such treated her with respect, and made others do so too;—but, said she,
+I will reduce her to what she was, and since she knows not how to prize
+the honour of my friendship, make her feel the severities of servitude.</p>
+<p>Nothing could be more astonishing, and at the same time more pleasing
+to count Bellfleur than this discovery: what he felt for Louisa could not
+be called love, he desired only to enjoy her; and the knowledge of her
+meanness, together with Melanthe's resentment, which he doubted not but he
+should be able to improve to the turning her out of doors, made him
+imagine she would then be humbled enough to accept of any, offers he might
+make her.</p>
+<p>Pursuant to this cruel aim, he told Melanthe, that now not thinking
+himself under any obligation to conceal the whole of the affair, he must
+confess Louisa had not only made him advances, but gone so far as to
+discover a very great passion for him.—As I had never, said he, given her
+the least room to hope I was ambitious of any favours from her of that
+nature, I could not help thinking she was guilty of some indecencies
+ill-becoming a woman of condition, as well as infidelity to her friendship
+for you, whom she might well see I adored:—but alas! I little suspected
+the obligations she had to you, and now I know what she is, am in the
+utmost consternation at her ingratitude, impudence and stupidity. Heavens!
+added he, could she have the vanity to imagine that the genteel garb you
+had put her in, could raise her to such an equality, as to make me
+hesitate one moment if I should give the balance of merit on her side, and
+quit the amiable Melanthe for the pert charms of her woman?</p>
+<p>Melanthe, believing every thing he said on this occasion, was ready to
+burst with indignation; which impatient to give vent to, parted from her
+lover much sooner than she was accustomed, in order to wreak on the poor
+Louisa all that rage and malice could suggest.</p>
+<p>That innocent maid, little suspecting the misfortune that was falling
+on her, was at ombre with some ladies who came to visit them, when the
+furious Melanthe came home, and taking this opportunity of heightening her
+intended revenge by making it more public,—so, minx, said she to her,
+after having made her compliments to the company, you ape the woman of
+fashion exceeding well, as you imagine; but hereafter know yourself, and
+keep the distance that becomes you. With these words she gave her a push
+from the table in so rough a manner, that the cards fell out of her hand.</p>
+<p>It is hard to say whether Louisa herself, or the ladies who were
+present, were most astonished at this behaviour; every one looked one upon
+another without speaking for some time: at last Louisa, who wanted not
+spirit, and on this occasion testified an uncommon presence of mind,—if I
+have seemed otherways than what I am, madam, said she, it was your
+commands obliged me to it:—I never yet forgot myself, and shall as
+readily resume what distance you are pleased to enjoin me. Insolent,
+ungrateful wretch, cried Melanthe, vexed to the soul to find her seem so
+little shocked at what she had done, if I permitted you any liberties, it
+was because I thought you merited them;—but get out of my sight, and dare
+not to come into it again till I send for you. I shall obey you, madam,
+replied Louisa, and perhaps be as well pleased to be your servant as
+companion.</p>
+<p>This resignation and seeming tranquility under an insult, she expected
+would have been so mortifying, was the greatest disappointment could be
+given to Melanthe, and increased her rage to such a degree, that she flew
+to her as she was going out of the room, and struck her several blows,
+using at the same time expressions not decent to repeat, but such, as in
+some unguarded moments, women of quality level themselves with the vulgar
+enough to be guilty of. This is a behaviour, madam, which demeans yourself
+much more than me, said Louisa, and when reason gets the better of your
+passion, I doubt not but you will be just enough to acknowledge you have
+injured me.</p>
+<p>She got out of the room with these words, but heard Melanthe still
+outrageous in her reproaches; but determined not to answer, made what
+haste she could into her own chamber, where having shut herself in, she
+gave a loose to the distraction so unexpected an event must naturally
+occasion.</p>
+<p>Pride is a passion so incident to human nature, that there is no breast
+whatever that has not some share of it; and it would be to describe Louisa
+such as no woman ever was, or ever can be, especially at her years, to say
+she was not sensibly touched at the indignity she had received from a
+person, but a few hours before, had treated her as pretty near an equality
+with herself.—Nor was her amazement inferior to her grief, when after
+examining, with the utmost care, all her words and actions, she could find
+nothing in either that could possibly give occasion for this sudden turn.</p>
+<p>From the present, she cast thoughts back on the past accidents of her
+life, and comparing them together, how cruelly capricious is my fate, said
+she, which never presents me with a good but to be productive of an
+adequate evil!—How great a blessing was the protection and tenderness I
+found from Dorilaus, yet how unhappy did the too great increase of that
+tenderness render, me!—What now avails all the friendship received from
+Melanthe, but to make me the less able to support her ill usage!—And
+what, of what advantage is it to me that I am beloved by a man the most
+worthy to be loved, since I am of a condition which forbids me to give any
+encouragement to his, or my own wishes!</p>
+<p>In this manner did she pour forth the troubles of her soul, till the
+hour of supper being arrived, Melanthe's woman knocked at the chamber, and
+Louisa having opened it, she told her that she was sorry to see such an
+alteration in the family, but it was her ladyship's pleasure that she
+should eat at the second table. It is very well, said Louisa, resolving,
+whatever she endured, not to let Melanthe see any thing she could do
+disturbed her too much, and in saying so, went with her into the hall and
+sat down to table, but with what appetite I leave the reader to guess.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, who now hated her to a greater degree than ever she had loved
+her, gave to the ladies who were with her the whole history of Louisa, as
+far as she knew of it, and rather aggravated, than any way softened the
+mean condition from which she had relieved her; but when they asked her
+what that unhappy creature had done to forfeit a continuance of her
+goodness, she only answered in general, that she had found her to be an
+ungrateful and perfidious wretch.</p>
+<p>As she mentioned no particular influence on which this accusation was
+grounded, every one was at liberty to judge of it as they pleased.—The
+accomplishments Louisa was mistress of, made every one convinced she had
+been educated in no mean way, tho' by some accidents she might have been
+reduced to the calamities Melanthe had so largely expatiated upon, and
+more there were who pitied her than approved the behaviour of her
+superior:—some indeed, who had envied the praises they had heard bestowed
+on her, were rejoiced at her fall, and made it a matter of mirth wherever
+they came;—and others again thought themselves affronted by having a
+person, who they now found was no more than a servant, introduced into
+their company, and would never visit Melanthe afterward the whole time she
+stayed in Venice.</p>
+<p>The affair, however, occasioned a great deal of discourse: monsieur du
+Plessis heard of it the next day related after different fashions. The
+concern he was in was conformable to the passion he had for the fair
+occasion, and both beyond what is ordinarily to be found in persons of his
+sex. Impatient to know the truth he went to Melanthe's, and she happening
+to be abroad, he desired to speak to Louisa, but was told she was
+indisposed, and could see no company. These orders had been given by
+Melanthe, but were very agreeable to Louisa herself, who desired to avoid
+the sight of every one she had conversed with in a different manner from
+what she could now expect; but of the whole world this gentleman she most
+wished to shun.</p>
+<p>He concealed the trouble he was in as well as he was able, and
+affecting a careless air, told the person who answered him, that he only
+came to ask if she had heard the last new song, and that he would send it
+to her.</p>
+<p>The moment he came home he sat down and wrote the following billet. <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the ever charming</i> LOUISA.<br/>
+"That invincible bar you mentioned, yet<br/>
+made so great a secret of, is at last revealed,<br/>
+and I should be unworthy of the blessing I aspire<br/>
+to, if I were unable to surmount it.<br/>
+Cruel Louisa! you little know me, or the force<br/>
+of that passion you have inspired, to imagine<br/>
+that any difference which chance may have put<br/>
+between us, can make the least alteration in my<br/>
+sentiments!—It is to your own perfections I<br/>
+have devoted my heart, not to the merit or<br/>
+grandeur of your ancestors. What has my love<br/>
+to do with fortune, or with family!—Does a<br/>
+diamond lose any thing of its intrinsic value for<br/>
+being presented by an unknown, or an obscure<br/>
+hand?—My eyes convince me of the charms<br/>
+of my adored Louisa; my understanding shews<br/>
+me those of her mind; and if heaven vouchsafes<br/>
+to bless me with so rich a jewel, I never shall<br/>
+examine whence it came.—If therefore I am<br/>
+not so unhappy as to be hated by you, let not<br/>
+vain punctilloes divide us, and, as the first proof<br/>
+of my inviolable passion, permit me to remove<br/>
+you from a place where you have met with such<br/>
+unworthy treatment:—I hope you wrong me<br/>
+not so far as to suspect I any other designs<br/>
+on you than such as are consistent with the<br/>
+strictest honour; but to prevent all scruples of<br/>
+that nature from entering your gentle breast, I<br/>
+would wish to place you in a convent, the<br/>
+choice of which shall be your own, provided it<br/>
+may be where I sometimes may be allowed to<br/>
+pay my vows to you thro' the grate, till time<br/>
+shall have sufficiently proved my fidelity, and<br/>
+you shall prevail on yourself to recempence my<br/>
+flame, by bestowing on me your hand and heart:—the<br/>
+one I would not ask without the other;<br/>
+but both together would render the happiest of<br/>
+mankind.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your eternally devoted</i><br/>
+<br/>
+Du Plessis.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> As I perceive it will be next to an impossibility<br/>
+to gain a sight of you while you continue<br/>
+with that ungenerous woman, I entreat<br/>
+to know by a line how I stand in your opinion,<br/>
+and if the offers I make you, in the sincerity<br/>
+of my soul, may be thought worthy<br/>
+your acceptance."</p>
+<p>This epistle he ordered his valet de chambre to give to her own hand,
+if there were a possibility of it; and the fellow so well executed his
+commission, being acquainted with Melanthe's servants, that he was carried
+directly up to her chamber. She was a little surprized to see him, because
+she knew it was contrary to Melanthe's commands that any one should see
+her; and doubted not but to find she was treated with any kind of respect,
+would enhance her ill humour to her. But she said nothing that discovered
+her sentiments on this point, and with all the appearance of a perfect
+ease of mind, asked what he had to deliver to her. Only a song,
+mademoiselle, answered he, which my master ordered me to give you, and to
+desire you will let him know how you like it:—he says it might be turned
+into an admirable duetto, and begs you would employ your genius on that
+score and send it by me.</p>
+<p>Poor Louisa, who took his words literally, and thought her present
+circumstances too discordant for the fulfilling his request, opened the
+supposed piece of music with an aking heart; but when she had perused it,
+and found the artifice her lover had made use of to communicate his
+generous intentions to her, it is extremely fine, said she to the valet,
+and I will do what he requires to the best of my power, but fear I shall
+not be able to give it such a turn as he may expect. If you please,
+continued she, to wait a little, I shall not be long before I dispatch
+you. In speaking these words she went into her closet, and read over and
+over the offers he had made, in which, with the strictest examination, she
+could find nothing but what indicated the most perfect love, honour, and
+generosity. In the first transports of her soul she was tempted to comply;
+but her second thoughts were absolutely against it.—Those very reasons
+which would have prevailed with almost any other woman, made her obstinate
+to refuse:—the more she found him worthy, the less could she support the
+thoughts of giving him a beggar for a wife; and the more she loved him,
+the less could she content to be obliged to him; so she took but a small
+time for consideration, before she returned an answer in these terms:</p>
+<p><i>To the most accomplished, and most generous monsieur</i> DU PLESSIS.<br/>
+<br/>
+"As it was not owing to my pride or vanity,<br/>
+but merely compliance with the will of<br/>
+Melanthe, that my real meanness was made a<br/>
+secret, I find it revealed without any mortification;<br/>
+but, monsieur, the distance between us<br/>
+is not shortened by being known: as the consciousness<br/>
+of my unworthiness remains with<br/>
+me, and ever must do so, I again repeat the<br/>
+impossibility of accepting your too generous passion,<br/>
+and, after this, you will not wonder I<br/>
+should refuse those other obliging offers you are<br/>
+so good to make.—I left my native country<br/>
+with Melanthe, devoted myself to her service<br/>
+while she was pleased to continue me in it, and<br/>
+only wait her commands for my doing so, or to<br/>
+return to England.—I believe, by what her<br/>
+woman told me this day, the latter will be my<br/>
+fate.—Think not, however, most truly worthy<br/>
+of your whole sex, that I want eyes to distinguish<br/>
+your merits, or a heart capable of being<br/>
+influenced by them, perhaps too deeply for my<br/>
+own future peace:—this is a confession I would<br/>
+not have made, were I ever to see you more;<br/>
+but as I am determined to shut myself from all<br/>
+the world during my abode at Venice, I thought<br/>
+I owed this little recompence to the generous<br/>
+affection you express for me, and had rather you<br/>
+should think any thing of me, than that I am<br/>
+ungrateful.<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> I beg, monsieur, after this, you will not<br/>
+attempt either to speak or write to me."</p>
+<p>When she had sent this away, she fell into fresh complainings at the
+severity of her fate, which constrained her to refuse what most she
+languished for:—the uncertainty how she should be disposed of was also a
+matter of grief:—she was at this time a prisoner in Melanthe's house: she
+had sent several messages to that lady, by her woman, entreating to know
+in what she had offended, but could receive no other answer than abuses,
+without one word which gave her the least light into the cause of this
+strange treatment; but that morning she was informed, by the same woman,
+that her Lady protested she should never more come into her presence, and
+that she would send her home: this, as she had wrote to monsieur du
+Plessis, seemed highly probable, as there was no appearance of a
+reconciliation; and the thoughts in what manner she should begin her life
+again, on her return, filled her with many anxieties, which, joined to
+others of a different nature, rendered her condition truly pitiable.</p>
+<p>It was in the midst of these perplexing meditations that word was
+brought her from Melanthe, that she must prepare for her departure on the
+ensuing day. It was in vain she again begged leave to see her, and to be
+made acquainted with the reason of her displeasure; but the other would
+not be prevailed upon, but sent her a purse sufficient to defray the
+expences of her journey to England, and bid her woman tell her she had no
+occasion to repine, for she turned her away in a much better condition
+than she had found her.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa is in danger of being ravished by the count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>Louisa packed up her things, as she had been commanded, tho' with what
+confusion of mind is not easy to be expressed; and, when she was ready to
+go, wrote a letter to Melanthe, thanking her for all the favours she had
+received from her, acknowledging them to be as unmerited as her late
+displeasure, which she conjured her to believe she had never, even in
+thought, done any thing justly to incur;—wished her prosperity, and that
+she might never find a person less faithful to her interests than she had
+been. Having desired her woman to deliver this to her, she took leave of
+the servants, who all loved her extremely, and saw her go with tears in
+their eyes.</p>
+<p>The rout she intended to take was to Padua by water, thence in a post
+chaise to Leghorn, where she was informed, it would be easy to find a ship
+bound for England; to what port was indifferent to her, being now once
+more to seek her fortune, tho' in her native country, and must trust
+wholly to that providence for her future support, which had hitherto
+protected her.</p>
+<p>Accordingly she took her passage to Padua in one of those boats, which
+are continually going between Venice and that city; and it being near the
+close of day when she landed, was obliged to go into an inn, designing to
+lye there that night, and early in the morning set out for Leghorn.</p>
+<p>She was no sooner in bed than, having never been alone in one of those
+places before, a thousand dreadful apprehensions came into her head: all
+the stories she had been told, when a child, of robberies and murders
+committed on travellers in inns, were now revived in her memory:—every
+little noise she heard made her fall into tremblings; and the very
+whistling of the wind, which at another time would have lulled her to
+sleep, now kept her waking: but these ideal terrors had not long possessed
+her, before she had an occasion of real ones, more shocking than her most
+timid fancy could have suggested.</p>
+<p>The wicked count de Bellfleur, who had taken care to prevent the
+passion he had excited in Melanthe against her from growing cool, learned,
+from that deceived lady, in what manner she intended to dispose of her;
+and no sooner heard which way she went than, attended by one servant, who
+was the confidant and tool of all his vices, he took boat for Padua, and
+presently finding out, by describing her, at what inn she was lodged, came
+directly thither; and, having called the man of the house, asked him if
+such a young woman were not lodged there, to which being answered in the
+affirmative, he told him that she was his wife;—that being but lately
+married to her, in compliance with her request, he had brought her to see
+the diversions of the carnival, and that she was eloped, he doubted not,
+but for the sake of a gallant, since he loved her too well to have given
+her any cause to take so imprudent a step.</p>
+<p>The concern he seemed to be under gained immediate credit to all he
+said; which he easily perceiving, I know, said he, that if I have recourse
+to a magistrate I shall have a grant, and proper officers to force her to
+return to her duty; but I would feign reclaim her by fair means:—it is
+death to me to expose her; and if my perswasions will be effectual, the
+world shall never know her fault.</p>
+<p>The innkeeper then told him she was gone to bed, but he would wait on
+him to her chamber, and he might call to her to bid her open the door. No,
+answered the count, if she hears my voice she may, perhaps, be frighted
+enough to commit some desperate action:—you shall therefore speak to her,
+and make some pretence for obliging her to rise.</p>
+<p>On this they both went up, and the man knocked softly at first, but on
+her not answering immediately, more loud.—She, who heard him before, but
+imagining something of what she had heard of others was now going to
+happen to herself, was endeavouring to assume all the courage she could
+for supporting her in whatever exigence heaven should reduce her to:—at
+last she asked who was there, and for what reason she was disturbed. The
+innkeeper then said he wanted something out of the room, and she must
+needs open the door. This she refused to do, but got out of bed and began
+to put on her cloaths, resolving to dye as decently as she could, verily
+believing they were come to rob and murder her.</p>
+<p>The man, who spoke all by the count's direction, then told her, that if
+she would not open the door, he must be obliged to break it, and presently
+beat so violently against it, that the poor terrified Louisa expected it
+to burst, so thought it would be better to unbolt it of her own accord,
+than, by a vain resistance, provoke worse usage than she might otherwise
+receive: but what was her astonishment when she beheld the count de
+Bellfleur! On the first moment the words monsieur du Plessis repeated to
+her, that <i>he would have her one way or another,</i> came into her mind,
+and made her give a great shriek; but then almost at the same time the
+thought that he might possibly be sent by Melanthe to bring her back,
+somewhat mitigated her fears.—Unable was she to speak, however; and the
+consternation she appeared to be in at his presence, joined with his
+taking her by the hand and bidding her be under no apprehensions,
+confirmed the truth of what he had told the innkeeper, who thinking he had
+no other business there, and they would be soonest reconciled when alone,
+left them, together and went down stairs.</p>
+<p>When the count saw he was gone,—I could not support the thoughts of
+seeing you no more, my dear Louisa, said he; I have heard Melanthe's cruel
+usage of you, and also that your condition is such, that you have no
+friends in England to receive you if you should prosecute your journey:—I
+come therefore to make you an offer, which, in your present circumstances,
+you will find it imprudent, I believe, to reject:—I long have loved you,
+and if you will be mine, will keep you concealed at a house where I can
+confide, till my return to the army; then will take the fame care of you,
+and place you somewhere near my own quarters; and, as I shall go to Paris
+as soon as the next campaign is over, will there provide for you in as
+handsome a manner as you can wish;—for be assured, dear lovely girl, that
+no woman upon earth will ever be capable of making me forsake you.</p>
+<p>That she had patience to hear him talk so long in this manner, was
+wholly owing to the fear and surprize she had been in, and perhaps had not
+yet recovered enough from, to make any reply to what he said, if he had
+contented himself only with words; but his actions rouzing a different
+passion in her soul, she broke from his arms, into which, he had snatched
+her at the conclusion of his speech, and looking on him with eyes
+sparkling with disdain and rage,—perfidious man! cried she, is
+this,—this the consequence of the vows you made Melanthe; and do you
+think, after this knowledge of your baseness, I can harbour any idea of
+you, but what is shocking and detestable!</p>
+<p>I never loved Melanthe, by heaven, resumed he; she made me advance, and
+not to have returned, them, would have called even my common civility in
+question;—but from the first moment I saw your beauties, I was determined
+to neglect nothing that might give me the enjoyment of them:—fortune has
+crowned my wishes, you are in my power, and it would be madness in you to
+lose the merit of yielding, and I compel me to be obliged to my own
+strength for a pleasure I would rather owe to your softness:—come, come,
+continued he, after having fastened the door, let us go to bed;—I will
+save your modesty, by pulling your cloaths off myself. In speaking this he
+catched hold of her again, and attempted to untye a knot which fastened
+her robe de chambre at the breast. On this she gave such shrieks, and
+stamped with her feet so forcibly on the ground, that the innkeeper
+fearing the incensed husband, as he supposed him to be, was going to kill
+her, ran hastily up stairs, and called to have the door opened, saying, he
+would have no murder in his house.</p>
+<p>The artful count immediately let him in, and told him, he need be under
+no apprehensions, his wife was too dear to him to suffer any thing from
+his resentment; and all the noise you heard, said he, was only because I
+insisted on her going to bed! By these words Louisa discovered how he had
+imposed upon the man, and cried out she was not his wife; but as she spoke
+very bad Italian, and the man understood no French, the count being very
+fluent in that language, had much the advantage, the innkeeper was fully
+satisfied, and they were again left alone, having a second opportunity to
+prosecute his villanous attempt.</p>
+<p>You see, said he, how much in vain it is for you to resist:—would it
+not be wiser in you, therefore, to meet my flames with equal warmth;—to
+feign a kindness even if you have none, and thereby oblige me to use you
+with a future tenderness:—believe I love you now with an extravagance of
+fondness:—it is in your power to preserve that affection for ever:—give
+me then willingly that charming mouth.</p>
+<p>He had all this time been kissing her with the utmost eagerness, so
+that with all her struggling she had not been able either to disengage
+herself from his embrace, or to utter one word; and he was very near
+forcing from her yet greater liberties, when all at once heaven gave her
+strength to spring suddenly from him, and running to a table where he had
+laid his sword, she drew it out of the scabbard with so much speed, that
+he could not prevent her, and making a push at him with one hand, kept him
+from closing with, or disarming her, till with the other she had plucked
+back the bolt of the door.</p>
+<p>In this posture she flew down stairs, and reached the hall before he
+overtook her, quite breathless and ready to faint. He was going to lay
+hold of her, when he found himself seized behind by two persons, whom, on
+turning to examine the reason, he found was monsieur du Plessis and the
+innkeeper. He started at the sight of that gentleman, and was going to say
+somewhat to him in French, when the innkeeper told him, the young woman
+should be molested no farther till he knew the truth of the affair; for,
+said he, there is a person, meaning monsieur du Plessis, who is just come
+in, and says she has no husband, and belongs to an English lady of quality
+now at Venice:—I will therefore take care of her this night, and if you
+have any real claim to her, you may make it out before the magistrate
+to-morrow.</p>
+<p>The count was so enraged to find it had been by monsieur du Plessis he
+had been disappointed, that he snatched his sword from Louisa, who had all
+this time held it in her hand, and made so furious a thrust at him, that,
+had he not been more than ordinary nimble in avoiding it, by stepping
+aside, it must have infallibly gone thro' his body.—He immediately drew
+and stood on his defence, but the innkeeper and several other people, whom
+Louisa's cries had by this time brought into the hall, prevented any
+mischief.</p>
+<p>The confusion of voices and uproar which this accident occasioned,
+would suffer nothing to be heard distinctly; but the guilt of count
+Bellfleur might easily be read in his looks, and not able to stand the
+test of any enquiry, he departed with his servant, casting the most
+malicious reflections as he went out, both on Louisa and her deliverer.</p>
+<p>Du Plessis less affected, because innocent, gave every one the
+satisfaction they desired: he said that the young lady being of English
+birth, came along with a lady of her own country, to visit several parts
+of Europe merely for pleasure; that the lady was still at Venice, and that
+on some little disgust between them, she who was there, meaning Louisa,
+had quitted her, and was now returning home by the way of Leghorn; of the
+truth of what he told them, he added, they might be informed, by sending
+to Venice the next day.</p>
+<p>He also said, that having a business to be negotiated in England, he
+had followed this young lady, in order to beg the favour of her to deliver
+letters to some friends he had there, not having the opportunity of making
+this request before, by reason of her departure having been so sudden,
+that he knew nothing of it before she was gone.</p>
+<p>The truth of all this Louisa confirmed, and on farther talk of the
+affair, acquainted them, that the gentleman who had occasioned this
+disturbance, for she forbore mentioning his name, had often sollicited her
+love on unlawful terms, and being rejected by her, had taken this
+dishonourable way of compassing his desires, at a place where he knew she
+was alone, and wholly a stranger.</p>
+<p>The fright and confusion she had been in, had rendered her so faint,
+that it was with infinite difficulty she brought out these words; but
+having something given her to refresh her spirits, and being conducted
+into another room out of the crowd, she began, by degrees, to recover
+herself.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis then informed her, that on coming to Melanthe's,
+and hearing she was gone, he immediately took boat, resolving to prevail
+on her to alter her resolution of going to England, or dye at her feet:
+that he easily found the inn she was at, and that the man of the house
+presently told him, such a person as he described was there; but that he
+understood she had eloped from her husband, who had pursued, and was now
+above with her.</p>
+<p>Never, said this faithful lover, did any horror equal what I felt at
+this intelligence!—The base count de Bellfleur came presently into my
+mind:—I thought it could be no other who had taken this abhored method of
+accomplishing the menaces you may remember I repeated to you:—I was going
+to fly up stairs that instant, but was withheld, and found it best to
+argue the man into reason, who, I found, was fully prepossessed you were
+his wife: as I was giving some part of your history, I saw the count's man
+passing thro' the hall; he saw me too, and would have avoided me, but I
+ran to him, seized him by the throat, and asked him what business had
+brought either him or his master to this place: the disorder he was in,
+and the hesitation with which he spoke, together with refusing to give any
+direct answer, very much staggered the innkeeper, who was just consenting
+to go up with me to your chamber, and examine into the truth of this
+affair, when we saw you come down, armed as your virtue prompted, and at
+the same time flying from the villain's pursuit.</p>
+<p>Louisa could not help confessing that she owed the preservation of her
+honour wholly to him; for, said she, the people were so fully persuaded
+not only that I was his wife, but also that I had fled from him on some
+unwarrantable intent, that all I did, or could have done, would only have
+served to render me more guilty in their opinion; and it must have been by
+death alone I could have escaped the monster's more detested lust.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis now made use of every argument that love and wit
+could inspire, to prevail with her to accept of the offer contained in the
+letter he had wrote to her; and concluded with reminding her, that if the
+charming confession her answer had made him was to be depended on, and
+that she had indeed a heart not wholly uninfluenced by his passion, she
+would not refuse agreeing to a proposal, which not the most rigid virtue
+and honour could disapprove.</p>
+<p>Louisa on this replied with blushes, that since, by the belief she
+should never see him more, she had been unwarily drawn in to declare
+herself so far, she neither could, nor would attempt to deny what she had
+said; but, added she, it is perhaps, by being too much influenced by your
+merits, that I find myself obliged to refuse what you require of me:—I
+cannot think, cried she, of rendering unhappy a person who so much
+deserves to be blessed:—and what but misery would attend a match so
+unequal as yours would be with me!—How would your kindred brook it!—How
+would the world confuse and ridicule the fondness of an affection so ill
+placed!—What would they say when they should hear the nobly born, the
+ rich, and the accomplished monsieur du Plessis, had taken for his wife a
+ maid obscurely defended, and with no other dowry than her virtue!—My
+ very affection for you would, in the general opinion, lose all its merit,
+ and pass for sordid interest:—I should be looked upon as the bane of
+ your glory;—as one whose artifices had ensnared you into a forgetfulness
+ of what you owed to yourself and family, and be despised and hated by all
+ who have a regard for you.—This, monsieur, continued she, is what I
+ cannot bear, neither for your sake nor my own, and entreat you will no
+ farther urge a suit, which all manner of considerations forbid me to
+ comply with.</p>
+<p>The firmness and resolution with which she uttered these words, threw
+him into the most violent despair; and here might be seen the difference
+between a sincere and counterfeited passion: the one is timid, fearful of
+offending, and modest even to its own loss;—the other presuming, bold,
+and regardless of the consequences, presses, in spight of opposition, to
+its desired point.</p>
+<p>Louisa had too much penetration not to make this distinction: she saw
+the truth of his affection in his grief, and that awe which deterred him
+from expressing what he felt:—she sympathized in all his pains, and for
+every sigh his oppressed heart sent forth, her own wept tears of blood;
+yet not receding from the resolution she had formed, nothing could be more
+truly moving than the scene between them.</p>
+<p>At length he ceased to mention marriage, but conjured her to consider
+the snares which would be continually laid, by wicked and designing men,
+for one so young and beautiful:—that she could go no where without
+finding other Bellfleurs; and she might judge, by the danger she had just
+now so narrowly escaped, of the probability of being involved again in the
+same:—he represented to her, in the most pathetic terms, that her
+innocence could have no sure protection but in the arms of a husband, or
+the walls of a convent; and on his knees beseeched her, for the sake of
+that virtue which she so justly prized, since she would not accept of him
+for the one, to permit him to place her in that other only asylum for a
+person in her circumstances.</p>
+<p>Difficult was it for her to resist an argument, the reason of which she
+was so well convinced of, and could offer nothing in contradiction to, but
+that she had a certain aversion in her nature to receive any obligations
+from a man who had declared himself her lover, and who might possibly
+hereafter presume upon the favours he had done her.</p>
+<p>It was in vain he complained of her unjust suspicion in this point,
+which, to remove, he protested to her that he would leave the choice of
+the monastry wholly to herself: that in whatever part she thought would be
+most agreeable, he would conduct her; and that, after she was entered, he
+would not even attempt to see her thro' the grate, without having first
+received her permission for his visit. Not all this was sufficient to
+assure her scrupulous delicacy: she remained constant in her
+determination; and all he could prevail on her, was leave to attend her as
+far as Leghorn, to secure her from any second attempt the injurious count
+might possibly make.</p>
+<p>After this they entered into some discourse of Melanthe, and whether it
+would be proper for Louisa to write her an account of this affair, and the
+count's perfidiousness. Monsieur du Plessis said, he thought that the late
+usage she had received from that lady, deserved not she should take any
+interest in her affairs; but it was not this that hindered Louisa from
+doing it:—the remembrance of the kindness she had once been treated with
+by her, more than balanced, in her way of thinking, all the insults that
+succeeded it; and when she reflected how much Melanthe loved the count,
+and that she had already granted him all the favours in her power, it
+seemed to her rather an act of cruelty than friendship, to acquaint her
+with this ingratitude, and thereby anticipate a misfortune, which,
+perhaps, by his artifices and continued dissimulation, might be for a long
+time concealed: therefore, for this reason, she exacted a promise from
+monsieur du Plessis not to make any noise of this affair at his return to
+Venice, unless the count, by some rash and precipitate behaviour, should
+enforce him to it.</p>
+<p>This injunction discovered so forgiving a sweetness of disposition in
+the person who made it, that monsieur du Plessis could not refrain
+testifying his admiration by the most passionate exclamations; in which
+perhaps he had continued longer, had not the eyes of the fair object
+discovered a certain languishment, which reminded him, he should be
+wanting in the respect he professed, to detain her any longer from that
+repose, which, seemed necessary, after the extraordinary hurry of spirits
+she had sustained; therefore having taken his leave of her for that night,
+retired to a chamber he had ordered to be got ready for him, as did she to
+that where she had been so lately disturbed: but all those who are in the
+least capable of any idea of those emotions, which agitated the minds of
+both these amiable persons, will believe neither of them slept much that
+night.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The Innkeepers scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: her
+behavior on the discovery of the count's falshood. Louisa changes her
+resolution and goes to Bolognia</i>.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis, having found it impossible to dissuade Louisa from
+going to England, now bent his whole thoughts to perform his promise of
+conducting her to Leghorn, in the most commodious manner he could;
+accordingly he rose very early, and calling for the man of the house,
+desired he would provide a handsome post chaise, and if he knew any
+fellows whose integrity might be relied on, he thought necessary to hire
+two such, who, furnished with fire-arms, might serve as a guard against
+any attack the count might take it into his head to make.</p>
+<p>But the innkeeper had now entertained notions that forbid him to
+correspond with the designs of monsieur: some of his neighbours, who had
+heard of last night's accident, whispered it in his ears, that it would
+not be safe for him to let these young people depart together; that he
+could not be assured the person, who pretended to be the husband, might not
+be so in reality; and if he should come again with proper officers and
+proofs to claim his wife, it might be of dangerous consequence to him to
+have favoured her escape; and that the only way he had to secure himself
+from being brought into trouble, was to lay the whole affair before the
+podestat. This advice seemed to him too reasonable not to be complied
+with: he went directly to that magistrate, and while the lover was
+speaking to him, officers came in to seize both him and Louisa, and carry
+them before the podestat.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was very much surprized and vexed at this
+interruption, and the more so, as he feared it would terrify Louisa to a
+greater degree than the nature of the thing required; but in this he did
+injury to her courage: when she was called up and informed of the
+business, she surrendered herself with all the dauntlessness of innocence
+to the officers, and suffered them to conduct her, with du Plessis, to the
+house of the podestat.</p>
+<p>Both of them flattered themselves with the belief, that when he should
+come to hear the story, they would be immediately discharged; but he
+happened to be one of those who are over wary in the execution of their
+office; and he only told them, that what they said might be true, but he
+was not to take things on the bare word of the parties themselves; and
+that therefore they must be confined till either the person who claimed
+the woman for his wife, should bring proofs she was so, or she should be
+able to make out he had no right over her.</p>
+<p>That is easy for me to do, said Louisa; I am only concerned that this
+gentleman, meaning du Plessis, should be detained on an account he has no
+manner of interest in. The podestat answered, it was unavoidable, because
+as the person, who said he was her husband, had accused her of an
+elopement, there was all the reason in the world to suppose that if it
+were so, it was in favour of this gentleman, by the rage he was informed
+he had testified at finding him in Padua.</p>
+<p>Louisa gave only a scornful smile, denoting how much she disdained a
+crime of the nature she was suspected of, and followed one of the
+officers, who conducted her to the place appointed for her confinement.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was touched to the soul at the indignity he thought
+offered to this sovereign of his affections; but he restrained himself
+when he considered that it had the sanction of law, which in all nations
+must be submitted to; and he only told the podestat, that the virtue of
+that lady would soon be cleared, to the confusion of those who had
+presumed to traduce it.</p>
+<p>As, after they were under confinement, they had no opportunity of
+advising each other what to do, monsieur du Plessis, uneasy at the
+injustice done him, wrote immediately to the prince of Conti, in these
+terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To his Royal Highness the Prince of</i> CONTI.<br/>
+<br/>
+"It is with the extremest reluctance I give<br/>
+your royal highness this trouble, or find myself<br/>
+obliged to accuse the count de Bellfleur of<br/>
+an action so dishonourable to our nation; but<br/>
+as I am here under confinement for preventing<br/>
+him from committing a rape on a young English<br/>
+lady, who failing to seduce at Venice, he followed<br/>
+hither; and under the pretence of being<br/>
+her husband, gained the people of the house on<br/>
+his side, and had infallibly compassed his intent,<br/>
+had it not been for my seasonable interposition:<br/>
+I am too well convinced of the justice I presume<br/>
+to implore, to doubt if your highness will<br/>
+oblige him to clear up the affair to the podestat,<br/>
+on which she will be at liberty to prosecute her<br/>
+journey, and I to throw myself, with the utmost<br/>
+gratitude and submission, at your feet, who have<br/>
+the honour to be<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your royal highness's</i><br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most devoted</i><br/>
+<br/>
+DU PLESSIS."<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Padua.</i></p>
+<p>Louisa, who was ignorant what her lover had done, and knew no other
+way, than by writing to Melanthe, to extricate herself from this trouble,
+sent a letter to her, the contents whereof were as follows:<br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+<br/>
+"On what imagined cause whatever you were<br/>
+pleased to banish me, I am certain you<br/>
+have too much goodness to suffer any one,<br/>
+much less a person you have once honoured<br/>
+with your friendship, to remain in prison for a<br/>
+crime it is impossible for me to be guilty of:—I<br/>
+am sorry I must accuse a person so dear to<br/>
+you;—but it is, madam, no other than the<br/>
+unworthy count de Bellfleur, who followed me<br/>
+hither, came into the inn where I was lodged,<br/>
+into the very chamber, and oh! I tremble<br/>
+while I relate it, had proceeded yet farther; and<br/>
+I had been inevitably lost, had not heaven sent<br/>
+me a deliverer in the unexpected arrival of monsieur<br/>
+du Plessis, who is also a prisoner as well<br/>
+as myself, for the timely rescue he gave me.<br/>
+You will wonder, doubtless, by what law either<br/>
+I should be confined for endeavouring to defend<br/>
+my chastity, or he, for generously assisting me;<br/>
+but the detested artful count had pretended himself<br/>
+my husband; and under the sanction of<br/>
+that name it was, that he met no opposition to<br/>
+his wicked will from the people of the house,<br/>
+and rendered them regardless of my shrieks and<br/>
+cries.—The magistrates are yet dubious of the<br/>
+truth; and till it can be proved what I really am,<br/>
+both myself and monsieur du Plessis must continue<br/>
+where we are:—have pity on me, therefore,<br/>
+I conjure you, madam, and write to the podestat:<br/>
+I have already told him I had the honour to<br/>
+belong to you;—a line from you will confirm<br/>
+it, and once more set at liberty a maid, who<br/>
+will ever remember all your favours with the<br/>
+greatest gratitude, and your withdrawing them<br/>
+as the worst misfortune could have befallen.<br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>From the prison<br/>
+at Padua.<br/>
+<br/>
+Your most faithful, and<br/>
+Most humble servant</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA."<br/>
+</p>
+<p>These letters were sent away by special messengers, who had orders to
+be as expeditious as possible in the delivery of them.</p>
+<p>But while these accidents happened at Padua, Melanthe was not without
+her share of inquietudes at Venice: she had not seen her beloved count in
+two whole days, and, tho' she sent several times to his lodgings, could
+hear nothing but that he was not yet come home. As her vanity would not
+suffer her to think herself neglected, without having received some
+glaring proofs of it, she feared some misfortune had befallen him, and
+exposed herself not a little in the enquiries she made after him, among
+all those who she could imagine were able to inform her any thing
+concerning him.</p>
+<p>At length some person, who happened to see him take boat, told her he
+was gone to Padua, which being the rout she knew Louisa had taken, and she
+had also informed him, a sudden thought darted into her head that he was
+gone in pursuit of her.—It now seemed not impossible, but that all he had
+said concerning his dislike of her might be artifice; and that the love of
+variety might prevail on him at last to comply with the advances he
+pretended she had made him.—The privacy with which he went, none of his
+acquaintance knowing any thing of his journey, seemed to favour this
+opinion; and never was a heart more racked with jealousy and suspence,
+than that of this unhappy, and too easily deceived lady.</p>
+<p>She had sometimes an inclination to go to Padua in person, and
+endeavour to find out what business had carried him thither; and her
+impatience had doubtless got the better of her prudence in this
+particular, if, sending once more to his lodgings, she had not heard he
+was returned.—On this she expected to see him in the evening, and
+flattered herself with his being able to make some reasonable excuse for
+his absence; but finding he came not, she was all distraction, and sent a
+billet to him next morning, requiring him to come to her immediately on
+the receipt of it; but as he was at that time in too ill a humour to think
+of entertaining her, sent her an answer by word of mouth, that he was
+indisposed, and would wait on her on his recovery.—This message seemed so
+cold, and so unlike the passion he had hitherto professed for her, that it
+threw her into almost convulsive agonies.—A masquerade was to be that
+night at the house of a person of quality: she sent again to know if he
+intended to be there, and, if he did, what habit he would wear, it being
+customary with them, ever since their amour, to acquaint each other with
+their dresses, that they might not mistake, by addressing to wrong
+persons. His reply was, that he would go if health permitted, but as to
+what he should wear he had not as yet thought of it.</p>
+<p>What, if he hat not thought of it! cried she haughtily, when she heard
+these words;—the knowledge that I shall be there, ought now to make him
+think of it.—Pride, love, and the astonishment at this sudden change in
+his behaviour, rendered her wholly forgetful of what she owed her sex and
+rank; and she was just going to his lodgings, in order to upbraid him with
+his indifference, and prove what it was she now had to depend on from him,
+when the messenger from Louisa arrived and delivered her the letter, which
+contained a sad eclaircisement of all she wanted to be informed of.</p>
+<p>At first reading it, she seemed like one transfixed with a sudden clap
+of thunder:—she had indeed been jealous, suspicious, fearful of her fate;
+but so glaring, so impudent a treachery had never entered her head, that
+any man could be guilty of, much less one whom her too fond passion had
+figured to her imagination, as possessed of all the virtues of his sex. It
+seemed too monstrous to be true; and she had accused the innocent Louisa
+as the inventor of this falshood, merely in revenge for her late
+treatment, had there been the least shadow of a pretence for doing
+so:—gladly would she have encouraged such a hope, but common sense forbid
+it;—all circumstances seemed to concur, in proving that he was indeed
+that villain which the letter represented him; and that surprize, which
+had in a manner stupified her on the discovery, was succeeded by a storm
+of mingled grief and rage, which no words can sufficiently describe:—she
+exclaimed against fate, cursed all mankind, and accused every thing as
+accessory to her misfortune, but that to which alone she owed it, her own
+imprudence.</p>
+<p>The disorders of her mind had such an effect on her body, that she fell
+into fits, and a physician was sent for, who, tho' esteemed the most
+skilful in that country, found it required all his art to prevent a fever:
+she continued, however, for five days in a condition, such as permitted
+her not to do any thing either for the satisfaction of her own impatient
+curiosity, or to comply with the just request Louisa had made; and had not
+monsieur du Plessis's letter to the prince been mere successful, they must
+both have continued where they were, perhaps for a considerable time.</p>
+<p>That, however, had all the effect could be expected from a prince of so
+much honour: he immediately sent for the count de Bellfleur; and easily
+finding, by the confusion with which he replied to his examination, and
+the little low evasions he was obliged to have recourse to, that the
+affair was as monsieur du Plessis had represented, gave him a severe
+check, and ordered him to depart immediately from Venice, where he told
+him, he had given such occasion to call the honour of the French nation in
+general in question; and to repair with all expedition to his winter
+quarters. Which command he instantly obeyed, without taking any leave of
+Melanthe, or perhaps even thinking on her.</p>
+<p>At the same time the prince dispatched his gentleman of horse to Padua,
+with necessary instructions for clearing up the affair; on which the
+prisoners were discharged, and their pardon asked by the podestat for
+doing what, he said, the duties of his post had alone obliged him to; tho'
+it is certain he had exercised his authority with greater strictness than
+the necessity of the thing required; since, if the count had been in
+reality the husband of Louisa, it would have been more easy for him to
+bring proofs of it, than for those under confinement to invalidate his
+claim.</p>
+<p>After the proper compliments to the gentleman who had taken this
+trouble, monsieur du Plessis entreated he would excuse him to the prince,
+that he retarded the thanks he had to pay his royal highness, till his
+return from conducting Louisa some part of her journey, which being a
+piece of gallantry the lady herself seemed well pleased with, was easily
+complied with by the other.</p>
+<p>This faithful lover had now a full opportunity to entertain his
+mistress with his passion, and represented it to her with so much force
+and eloquence, together with the dangers she would continually be exposed
+to, that she had at length no words to form denials, and gave him leave to
+conduct her to some monastry in Italy, the choice of which she left to
+him, till the campaign was over. This was indeed all he presumed to
+request of her at present. It may happen, said he, that your lover may
+fall a victim to the fate of war, among many other more brave and worthy
+men, who doubtless will not survive the next battle, and you will then be
+at liberty to pursue your inclinations either to England or elsewhere; and
+be assured of this, that I shall take care, before the hour of danger, to
+leave you mistress of a fortune, sufficient to protect you from any future
+insults of the nature you received from Melanthe.</p>
+<p>The tender soul of Louisa was so much dissolved at these words, that
+she burst into a flood of tears, and cried out, Oh! too generous du
+Plessis, think not I will survive the cruel hour which informs me all that
+is valuable in man has ceased to be!—Take,—oh! take no care for me; when
+you are no more, nothing this world affords can enable me to drag on a
+wretched life!</p>
+<p>What must be the transport of a man, who loved like him, to hear a
+mouth accustomed to the greatest reserve, utter exclamations so soft, so
+engaging, so convincing to him that he was no less dear to her than he
+could even wish to be!—He threw himself at her feet, and even thought
+that posture not humble enough to testify, as it deserved, his gratitude
+and joy. But she not suffering him to continue in it, he took the hand
+that raised him, kissed off the tears which had fallen from her eyes upon
+it, with speechless extacies, and seemed almost beside himself at the
+concern she could not yet overcome, on the bare imagination of losing him
+in the way he mentioned. If you love me, said she tenderly, you will
+endeavour to preserve yourself:—I have now put myself under your
+protection, by consenting to do as you would have me, and have no other
+from whom I would receive those favours I expect from you:—think not,
+therefore, that I will perform my promise, unless you give me yours, not
+to be so covetous of fame as to court dangers, nor, in too eager a pursuit
+of glory, to lose the remembrance of what you owe to love.</p>
+<p>Oh thou divinest softness! cried he, be assured I will put nothing to
+the venture that might take me from Louisa!—Your kindness, my angel, has
+shewed me the value of life, and almost made a coward of your lover:—no
+farther will I go than the duties of my post oblige me, and that honour,
+which to forfeit, would render me unworthy of your care.</p>
+<p>Louisa now found herself so much at ease, in having discovered a secret
+she had so long laboured with, and suffered an infinity of pain in the
+concealing of, that nothing could be more chearful than her looks and
+behaviour. He, on the other hand, was all rapture, yet did it not make him
+in the least forgetful of the rules he had prescribed himself, or give her
+modesty any room to repent the confession she had made in favour of his
+passion:—the conversation between them was all made up of innocence and
+love; and every hour they passed together, rendered them still dearer to
+each other.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis having thus gained the point his soul was let on,
+began to consider in what part of Italy it would be best to place his dear
+Louisa: as Bolognia was a free country, under the jurisdiction of the
+Pope, he thought she would there be the least subject to alarms, on
+account of the army's continual marches and countermarches thro' most
+other parts of Italy. He therefore got a post-chaise, and by easy journeys
+conducted her thither; and having made an agreement with the lady abbess
+of the Augustines, she was welcomed into the convent by the holy
+sisterhood with all imaginable good-nature and politeness.</p>
+<p>It would be endless to recite the farewels of these equally sincere,
+and passionate lovers; so I shall only say that never any parting was more
+truly touching; and the grief, which both of them endured, was only
+alleviated by the confidence they had in each other's affection, and the
+mutual promises of communicating the assurances of persevering in it, by
+letters as often as opportunity would permit.</p>
+<p>Melanthe being recovered of the indisposition of her body, tho' not of
+her mind, was informed of every particular of her perfidious lover's
+conduct as he had quitted Venice before she did her chamber, was obliged
+to bear the load of discontent her too easy belief had brought upon her,
+without even the poor ease of venting it in reproaches on him. The
+carnival soon after ending, and finding that change of place was no
+defence from misfortunes of the kind she had sustained, without she could
+also change her way of thinking, took the first convenience that offered,
+and returned to England, rather in worse humour than she had left it.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Warsaw, sees the coronation of Stanislaus and his
+queen: his reception from the king of Sweden: his promotion: follows that
+prince in all his conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The story
+of count Patkul and madame de Eusilden.</i></p>
+<p>While these things were transacting in Italy, Horatio, animated by
+love and glory, was pursuing his journey to Poland. His impatience was so
+great, that he travelled almost night and day, already imitating the
+example of the master he was going to serve; no wood, no river was
+impassable to him that shortened the distance to the place he so much
+longed to approach: and thus by inuring himself to hardship, became fitly
+qualified to bear his part in all the vast fatigues to which that prince
+incessantly exposed his royal person.</p>
+<p>Not a city, town, or even village he puffed thro', but echoed with the
+wonders performed by the young king of Sweden:—new victories, new
+acquisitions met him wherever he came:—all tongues were full of his
+praises; and even those who had been ruined by his conquests, could not
+help speaking of him with admiration.—Horatio heard all this with
+pleasure, but mixed with a kind of pain that he was not present at these
+great actions.—How glorious is it, cried he to himself, to fight under
+the banners of this invincible monarch!—What immortal honour has not
+every private man acquired, who contributed the least part to successes
+that astonish the whole world!</p>
+<p>But notwithstanding his eagerness which carried him thro' marshes, over
+mountains, and ways, which to an ordinary traveller would have seemed
+impassable, he met with several delays in his journey, especially when he
+got into Germany, where they were extremely scrupulous; and he was obliged
+to wait at some towns two or three days before he could obtain passports:
+he also met several parties of flying horse and dragoons, who were
+scouting about the country, as he drew nearer Saxony; but his policy
+furnished him with stratagems to get over these difficulties, and he got
+safe to Punitz, in the Palatinate of Posnania, where a great part of the
+king of Sweden's army was encamped.—He immediately demanded to be
+brought to the presence of the grand marshal Renchild, to whom he
+delivered the letter of the baron de la Valiere, and found the good
+effects of it by the civilities with which that great general vouchsafed
+to treat him. He would have had him stay with him; but Horatio, knowing
+the king was at Warsaw, was too impatient of seeing that monarch to be
+prevailed upon, on which he sent a party of horse to escort him to that
+city.</p>
+<p>He had the good fortune to arrive on the very day that Stanislaus and
+his queen were crowned, and was witness of part of the ceremony. The king
+of Sweden was there incognito, and being shewn to Horatio, he could not
+forbear testifying his surprize to see so great a prince, and one who, in
+every action of his life, discovered a magnamity even above his rank,
+habited in a manner not to be distinguished from a private man; but it was
+not in the power of any garb to take from him a look of majesty, which
+shewed him born to command not only his own subjects, but kings
+themselves, when they presumed to become his enemies. There was a
+fierceness in his eyes, but tempered with so much sweetness, that it was
+impossible for those who most trembled at his frowns to avoid loving him
+at the same time.</p>
+<p>Stanislaus had in him all that could attract respect and good wishes;
+beside the most graceful person that can be imagined, he had a certain air
+of grandeur, joined with an openness of behaviour, that shewed him equally
+incapable of doing a mean or dishonourable action: his queen was one of
+the greatest beauties of her time; and every one present at their
+coronation, confessed, that never any two persons more became a throne, or
+were more worthy of the dignity conferred upon them.</p>
+<p>The whole court was too much taken up that day, for Horatio to think of
+presenting himself before the king of Sweden; but the officer, who
+commanded the party that general Renchild had sent with him, introduced
+him in the evening to count Hoorn, governor of Warsaw, who provided him an
+appartment, and the next morning introduced him to count Piper. That
+minister no sooner read the baron de Palfoy's letter, and heard he had
+others to deliver to the king from the chevalier St. George, and the queen
+dowager of England, than he treated him with the utmost marks of esteem;
+and assured him that, since he had an inclination to serve his majesty, he
+would contribute every thing in his power to make him not repent the long
+fatigues he had undergone for that purpose; but, said he with a smile, you
+will have no need of me; you bring, I perceive, recommendations more
+effectual, and have besides, in yourself, sufficient to engage all you
+have to wish from a monarch so just and generous as ours.</p>
+<p>Horatio replied to this compliment with all humility; and as the count
+perceived by his accents that he was not a Frenchman, tho' he spoke the
+language perfectly well, he asked him of what country he was; to which
+Horatio replied, that he was of England, but made him no farther
+acquainted with his affairs, nor that the motive of his having remained so
+long in France, was because he was not ransomed by his friends: not that
+he concealed this out of pride, but he knew the character of most first
+ministers, and thought it not prudence to unbosom himself to one of those,
+whose first study, when they come into that employment, is to discover as
+much as they can of others, without revealing any thing of themselves. For
+this reason he was also very sparing of entering into any discourse of the
+chevalier's court, or of that of the king of France, and answered all the
+questions put to him by the count, that his youth, and being of foreign
+extraction, hindered him from being let into any secrets of state.</p>
+<p>After a pretty long conversation, the count led him to the king of
+Sweden's apartment, where, just as they were about to enter, he asked him
+if he could speak Latin; for, said he, tho' his majesty understands
+French, he never could be brought to speak it, nor is pleased to be
+addressed in that language. Horatio thanked him for this information, and
+told him, that tho' he could not boast of being able to deliver himself
+with an affluence becoming the presence of so great a prince, yet he would
+chuse rather to shew his bad learning, than his want of ambition to do
+every thing that might render himself acceptable.</p>
+<p>As he spoke these words, he found himself in his presence.—The king
+was encompassed by the officers of the army, to whom he was giving some
+directions; but seeing count Piper, and a stranger with him, he left off
+what he was saying, and, without giving him time to speak, cried, Count,
+who have you brought me here? One, may it please your majesty, replied he,
+who brings his credentials with him, and has no need of my intercession to
+engage his welcome. While the count Was making this reply, the king, who
+had an uncommon quickness in his eyes, measured Horatio from head to foot;
+and our young soldier of fortune, without being daunted, put one knee to
+the ground, and delivered his packet with these words:—The princes, by
+whom I have the honour to be sent, commanded me to assure your majesty,
+that they participate in all your dangers, rejoice in all your glories,
+and pray, that as you only conquer for the good of others, the sword you
+draw, in the cause of justice, may at last be sheathed in a lasting and
+universal peace.</p>
+<p>I am afraid it will be long before all that is necessary for that
+purpose is accomplished, said the king; wrong, when established, not
+easily gives place to right;—but we are yet young enough to hope it.</p>
+<p>He broke open his letters as he spoke this; and while he was examining
+them, took his eye off the paper several times to look on Horatio, and
+then read again.</p>
+<p>When he had done, I am much obliged, said he, to the zeal these letters
+tell me you have expressed for my service, and shall not be
+ungrateful:—we are here idle at present but shall not long be so; and you
+will have occasions enough to prove your courage, and gratify that love of
+arms which, my brother informs me, is the predominant passion of your soul.</p>
+<p>After this he asked him several questions concerning the chevalier St.
+George, the queen, and princess Louisa; to which Horatio answered with
+great propriety, but mingled with such encomiums of the royal persons, as
+testified his gratitude for the favours he received from them. But when he
+mentioned the princess, and delivered the message she sent by him, a more
+lively colour flushed into the king's cheeks, and he replied, well, we
+shall do all we can to comply with her commands; then turned quick about,
+and resumed the discourse he was in, before Horatio's entrance, with his
+officers, as much as to say, the business of his love must not interrupt
+that of the war; and Horatio had afterwards the opportunity of observing,
+that tho' he often looked upon the picture of that amiable princess, which
+he always wore in his bosom, yet he would on a sudden snatch his eyes
+away, as fearing to be too much softened.</p>
+<p>Horatio was ordered to be lodged in the castle where the garrison was
+kept; but he was every day at the king's levee, and received the most
+extraordinary marks of his favour and affection; for which, as he looked
+upon himself entirely indebted to the recommendations of his friends in
+France, he wrote letters of thanks, and an account of all that happened to
+him.</p>
+<p>Poland being now entirely subdued by the valour and fortune of Charles
+XII. and having received a king of his nomination, submitted cheerfully,
+glad to see an end of devastation, as they then flattered themselves; but
+the troubles of that unfortunate kingdom were yet to endure much
+longer.—Augustus, impatient of recovering what he had lost, and the czar
+of Muscovy jealous and envious of the king of Sweden's glory, came pouring
+with mighty armies from Saxony and Russia. Shullenburgh, the general of
+the former, had passed the Oder; and the other, at the head of a numerous
+body, was plundering all that came in his way, and putting to the sword
+every one whom he even suspected of adhering to king Stanislaus: so that
+nothing now was talked of but war, and the means concerted how to put a
+stop to the miseries these two ambitious princes made, not only in that
+country, but all the adjacent parts.</p>
+<p>It was agreed that general Renchild should go to meet Shullenburgh, and
+the two kings drive out the Muscovites; who being divided into several
+parties, Stanislaus went at the head of one army, and the king of Sweden
+led another; and taking different routs, had every day what he called
+skirmishes, but what the vanquished looked upon as terrible battles.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden, before their departure from Warsaw, told Horatio
+that all his officers were gallant men, and it was not his custom to
+displace any one for meer favour to another; he must therefore wait till
+the fate of war, or some other accident, made a vacancy, before he could
+give him a commission, in the mean time, said he, with a great deal of
+sweetness, you must be content to be only my aid-de-camp. On this Horatio
+replied to his majesty, with as much politeness as sincerity, that it was
+the post he wished, tho' dare not presume to ask; for he looked upon the
+honour of being near, and receiving the commands of so excellent a
+monarch, preferable to the highest commission in the army.</p>
+<p>Thus, highly contented with his lot, did he attend the king, thro'
+rivers, lakes, marines, and all the obstacles nature had thrown in the way
+of this conqueror; and whenever they came to any battle, was so swift in
+bearing his commands to the general, and in returning to him in which line
+soever he was, that Poniatosky gave him the name of the Mercury to their
+Jove; nor did he less signalize his valour; he fought by the side of the
+king like one who valued not life, in competition with the praises of his
+master. In an engagement where they took the baggage of Augustus, he did
+extraordinary service; and a colonel then being killed on the spot, the
+king presently cried out, Now here is a regiment for my Horatio. Our young
+warrior thanked him on his knees, but beseeched he might not be removed
+from him, again protesting that he could no were deserve so well, as where
+he was animated by his royal presence. This Charles XII. took very kindly,
+and told him, he should have his desire; but, said he, I must also have
+mine:—I will continue you my aid-de-camp, but you shall accept the
+commission, and the lieutenant colonel shall command the regiment in your
+absence.</p>
+<p>He also allotted him so large a share in the prize taken in this
+battle, that Horatio was already become rich enough to avow his
+pretensions to the daughter of the baron de Palfoy; but, dear as she was
+to him, his love and admiration of the king of Sweden, joined to the
+ambition of desiring still more than he had received, kept him from
+entertaining the least desire of quitting the service he was in.</p>
+<p>In eight or nine weeks did the two kings clear the country round, and
+drove their enemies into the heart of Lithuania. As they were about to
+return, they were met by the welcome news that general Renchild had been
+no less successful, and entirely routed the whole army of Shullenburgh,
+and also that the diet of Ratisbon, fearing the king of Sweden would enter
+Germany, had come to a resolution to declare him an enemy to the empire,
+in case he offered to pass the Oder with his army.</p>
+<p>They could not have taken a more effectual step to bring on what they
+dreaded, than by daring him to it by this menace. He took but little time
+for consideration, before he determined to carry the war into Saxony, and
+drive Augustus from his electorate, as he had done from his kingdom.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner made known his resolution, than the troops began to
+march, and with a chearfulness and alacrity, which shewed they had no will
+but that of their king:—indeed he seemed the soul of this mighty body, of
+which every single man was a member, and actuated only by him.</p>
+<p>It is certain his heart was set on establishing Stanislaus on the
+throne, and he knew no better way of preventing Augustus from molesting
+him, than by calling off all communication between his electorate and
+Poland:—accordingly he bent his course to Saxony, marched thro' Silesia
+and Lusatia, plundered the open country, laid the rich city of Leipsic,
+and other towns, under contribution, and at length encamped at Alranstadt,
+near the plains of Lutsen, whence he sent to the estates of Saxony, to
+give him an estimate of what they could supply, and obliged them to levy
+whatever sums he had occasion for: not that he had the least spark of
+avarice in his nature, but his hatred to Augustus, who had by his
+injustice made him become his enemy, was so great, that it extended to all
+those of his country, so far, as to humble and impoverish the once opulent
+inhabitants, making them not only support his numerous army, but laid on
+them besides many unnecessary imposts, which he divided among his
+soldiers, so that they were all cloathed in gold and silver, and every
+private man had the appearance of a general, the king himself still
+preferring his usual plainness; but he loved, he said, to see the Saxon
+riches upon Swedish backs.</p>
+<p>Horatio had now a second opportunity of writing to France, which he did
+not fail to do, and, as there was no talk of the army decamping for some
+time, let his friends know he hoped to hear from them at Alranstadt.</p>
+<p>Augustus, in the mean time deprived of every thing, and a wanderer in
+that kingdom where he had lately reigned, sent a mean submission to him,
+entreating peace, and that he might have leave to return to his
+electorate. This was granted by the conqueror, on condition he would
+renounce, for ever, all thoughts of re-entering Poland, or giving any
+disturbance to Stanislaus. But as the treaty was going to be signed, the
+czar sent an army of 20,000 men to his relief, who defeated general
+Mayerfield, whom the king had left to guard that kingdom; and the
+dethroned monarch once more entered Warsaw, the capital of Poland, in
+triumph.</p>
+<p>Charles XII. was so exasperated when he received this intelligence,
+that he gave immediate orders to decamp, resolving he should not long
+enjoy the benefit of his breach of faith; but the pusillanimity of
+Augustus prevented him: that prince was afraid the czar should discover
+the peace he had been secretly negotiating, and withdraw his troups; and
+as he had neither any of his own, nor money to assist him, he sent the
+articles demanded of him by the king of Sweden, signed with his own hand,
+and set out to Alranstadt, hoping, by his presence and persuasions, to
+mollify his indignation, and be permitted to enjoy his own Saxony in
+peace.</p>
+<p>What more could the utmost ambition of man require than the king of
+Sweden now received, to see a prince, so lately his equal and inveterate
+enemy, come to solicite favour of him in his camp, almost at his feet;
+but whatever were his sentiments on this occasion he concealed them, and
+tho' he could not but despise such an act of meanness, he treated him with
+the utmost politeness, tho' without making any abatement of the demands he
+had exacted from him. On the contrary, he insisted on his delivering up to
+him general Patkul, ambassador from the czar, who at that time was a
+prisoner in Saxony, being determined to put him to death as a traitor,
+having been born his subject, and now entered into the service of his
+sworn enemy.</p>
+<p>Augustus beseeched him in the most abject manner to relinquish this one
+point, and remonstrated to him that the czar, his present master, would
+look on it as the utmost indignity offered to himself in the person of his
+ambassador: he assured him he hated Patkul, but feared the giving him up
+would be resented by all the princes of Europe. All he could urge on this
+head was to no effect; the king of Sweden was not to be moved from any
+resolution he had once made; and the unfortunate Patkul was sent to
+Alranstadt and chained to a stake for three whole months, and afterwards
+conducted to Casimir, where he was to receive his sentence.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who was an entire stranger to the motive of this behaviour in
+the king, and had never seen any thing before in him that looked like a
+cruel disposition, was one day mentioning his surprize at it to a young
+officer with whom he had contracted a great intimacy, on which he gave him
+the following account:</p>
+<p>This Patkul, said he, is a Livonian born, which, tho' a free country,
+is part of the dominions annexed to the crown of Sweden: Charles XI. began
+to introduce a more absolute form of government than was consistent with
+the humour of that people; his son has been far from receding in that
+point, and Patkul being a person of great consideration among them, stood
+up for their liberties in a manner which our king could not forgive:—he
+ordered him to be seized, but he made his escape, and was proscribed in
+Sweden; on which he entered into the service of king Augustus, and was
+made his general; but on some misunderstanding; between him and the
+chancellor, he quitted Poland and went to Russia, where he got into great
+favour with the czar, was highly promoted, and sent his residentiary
+ambassador in Saxony. Augustus, whose fate it has been to disoblige every
+body, on some pretence clapp'd into prison the representative of his only
+friend, and now, we see, has given him up to death, to satiate the demands
+of his greatest enemy.</p>
+<p>Horatio could not keep himself from falling into a deep musing at the
+recital of this adventure: he thought Patkul worthy of compassion, yet
+found reasons to justify the king's resentment; and as this officer had
+often disburthened himself to him with the greatest freedom, he had no
+reserve toward him, and this led them into a discourse on arbitrary
+power.—Horatio said, that he could not help believing that nature never
+intended millions to be subjected to the despotic will of one person, and
+that a limited government was the most conformable to reason. The officer
+agreed with him in that; except the person who ruled had really more
+perfections than all those he ruled over and if so, said he, and his
+commands are always calculated for the happiness of the subject, they
+cannot be more happy than in an implicite obedience. True, replied
+Horatio, I am confident that such a prince as ours knows how to chuse for
+his people much better than they do for themselves; but how can they be
+certain that his descendants will have the same virtues; and when once an
+absolute power is granted to a good prince, it will be in vain that the
+people will endeavour to wrest it from the hands of a bad one.—Never can
+any point be redeemed from the crown without a vast effusion of blood, and
+the endangering such calamities on the country, that the relief would be
+as bad as the disease. Upon the whole, therefore, I cannot think Patkul in
+the wrong for attempting to maintain the liberty of his country, tho' I do
+for entering into the service of the avowed enemy of his master.</p>
+<p>It is that, I believe, resumed the other, that the king chiefly
+resents: his majesty is too just to condemn a man for maintaining the
+principles he was bred in, however they may disagree with his own; but to
+become his enemy, to enlist himself in the service of those who aim at the
+destruction of his lawful prince, is certainly a treason of the blackest
+dye.</p>
+<p>As they were in this discourse, colonel Poniatosky came in, and hearing
+they were speaking of Patkul,—I have just now, said he, received a letter
+from one of my friends in Saxony concerning that general, which deeply
+affects me, not for his own, but for the sake of a lady, to whom, after a
+long series of disappointments, he was just going to be married, when
+Augustus, against the law of nations, made him a prisoner. I will relate
+the whole adventure to you, continued he; on which the others assuring him
+they should think themselves obliged to him, he went on.</p>
+<p>When he first entered into the service of Augustus, he became
+passionately in love with madam d'Ensilden, a young lady, whose beauty,
+birth, and fortune rendered her worthy the affections of a man of more
+honour than he had testified in his public capacity: her friends at least
+thought so; and chancellor Flemming making his addresses to her at the
+same time, had the advantage in every thing but in her heart: there Patkul
+triumphed in spight of all objections: and tho' king Augustus vouchsafed
+himself to sollicite in behalf of his favourite, her constancy remained
+unshaken as a rock; which so incensed a monarch haughty and imperious in
+his nature, before humbled by our glorious Charles, that he made use of
+his authority, and forbid her to think of marrying any other: to which she
+resolutely answered, that she knew no right princes had to interfere with
+the marriages of private persons; but since his majesty commanded it, she
+would endeavour to obey and live single. This not satisfying the king, he
+hated Patkul from that moment; and the rivals soon after meeting in madam
+d'Ensilden's apartment, some hot words arose between them, which being by
+Flemming reported to his master, he sent, in the moment of his passion, to
+require Patkul to resign his office of general: he did so, but with a
+murmur that was far from abating the royal resentments; and he had then
+ordered him into confinement, but that private intelligence being given
+him, he made his escape before the officers, commissioned for that
+purpose, reached his house. He then went to the czar, who knowing him an
+experienced general, of which at that time he stood greatly in need,
+gladly received him; and it was there he first merited the hate of all
+good men, by countenancing and abetting those ambitious projects his new
+master was then forming against the king of Sweden: but see the fate of
+treason, he persuaded him to enter into an alliance with, Poland and
+Saxony against Sweden, which laid the foundation of this unjust war, and
+for which Augustus has so dearly paid; and being sent Ambassador, in order
+to negotiate these affairs, again renewed those of his love. Augustus, now
+obliged to the czar for the preservation of his dominions, durst not
+openly espouse chancellor Flemming, but no sooner heard that the marriage
+was near being compleated, than he ventured every thing to prevent it;
+and, under a pretence of his own forging, confined Patkul in the castle of
+Konisting, where he lay a considerable time; the czar being too much taken
+up with combating the fortune of our victorious king, to examine into this
+affair, and besides, unwilling to break with Augustus, as things then
+stood. Madam d'Ensilden did all this time whatever could be expected from
+a sincere affection, in order to procure his enlargement; but the interest
+of her friends, at least of those who would be employed in this
+intercession, were infinitely too weak to oppose that of Flemming and the
+king's own inclination, so that he remained a prisoner, without being
+permitted either to write to madam d'Ensilden or see her, till the time
+of his being delivered into our hands. But on hearing he was so, my friend
+informs me her great spirit, which till now had made her support her
+misfortune without discovering to the world any part of the agonies she
+sustained, in an instant quite forsook her: she abandoned herself to
+despair and grief, equally exclaiming against the Czar, Augustus, and
+Charles XII; has ever since shut herself up in her apartment, which she
+has caused to be hung with black, the windows closed, and no light but
+what a small lamp affords, and only adds more horror to the melancholy
+scene: she weeps incessantly, and, as she expects her lover will obtain no
+mercy, declares, she only waits till she hears the sentence of his fate is
+given, to dye, if possible, at the same moment of his execution.</p>
+<p>I must confess, continued Poniatosky, the history of this lady's
+sufferings touch me very much; and tho' I think her lover well worthy of
+the death he will undoubtedly receive, could wish some unexpected chance
+might once more set him free, and in a condition to recompence so tender a
+passion, which Augustus has now no longer any power to oppose.</p>
+<p>Horatio had a heart too tender, and too sensible of the woes of love,
+not to be greatly affected with this passage; and as they all were young,
+and probably had each of them a lady to whom their affections were given,
+could not help sympathizing in the misfortunes of two persons who seemed
+to have fallen into them merely by the sincere attachment they had for
+each other.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the troubles in Poland:
+Charles XII. gives laws to the empire: a courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives letters which give him great surprize</i>.</p>
+<p>Augustus being able to obtain no better conditions from the king of
+Sweden, than leave to return to his almost ruined electorate, took leave
+of his conqueror with an almost broken heart.—Intelligence soon after
+arriving that Poland was half demolished by the violence of different
+factions, who, in the absence of both their kings, contended with equal
+fury for the sovereign power, Stanislaus took an affectionate farewell of
+his dear friend and patron, and went to appease the troubles of that
+kingdom, and make himself peaceably acknowledged for what he was, their
+lawful king, not only by election, but by the gift of the conqueror,
+Charles XII. of Sweden. He was attended by 10,000 Swedish horse, and twice
+the number of foot, in order to make good his claim against any of his
+rebellious subjects.</p>
+<p>Charles having now accomplished all he could desire in relation to the
+Polish affairs, began to grow weary of the idle life he led at Alranstadt,
+and was thinking which way he should turn his arms; he had been used ill
+by the czar, who, as has been before observed, plotted his destruction
+while a minor, and began hostilities when he thought him not in a
+condition to defend himself, much less to make any reprisals: his
+resentment therefore against him was no less implacable than it had been
+against Augustus,—But the emperor had also disobliged him. Count Zobor,
+the chamberlain, had taken very indecent and unbecoming liberties with his
+character, in the presence of his own Ambassador at Vienna; and that court
+had given shelter to 1500 Muscovites, who having escaped his arms, fled
+thither for protection. As he was now so near, he therefore thought best
+to call the emperor first to account, and then proceed to attack the czar.</p>
+<p>To this end he sent to demand count Zobor, and the 1500 Muscovites
+should be given into his hands: the timid emperor complied with the first
+and sent his chamberlain to be punished as the king thought fit; but it
+was not in his power to acquiesce with the other; the Roman envoy, then at
+Vienna, having intelligence of it, provided for their escape by different
+routs. The king of Sweden then sent a second mandate, requiring protection
+for all the Lutherans throughout Germany, particularly in Silesia, and
+that they should be restored to all the liberties and privileges
+established by the treaty of Westphalia. The emperor, who would have
+yielded any thing to get the king of Sweden out of his neighbourhood,
+granted even this, disobliging as it was to the pope and his own catholic
+subjects: and having ratified these concessions, the king vouchsafed to
+let his chamberlain return, without any other punishment than
+imprisonment, so long as these affairs remained in agitation.</p>
+<p>Having thus given laws to Germany and terror to the emperor, he
+resolved to turn where he might expect more opposition; and accordingly he
+ordered count Piper to acquaint the officers, that they must now begin to
+think of preparing for a march.</p>
+<p>In the mean time ambassadors from all the courts of Europe were sent to
+his camp, most of them being apprehensive that they should be the next who
+felt the terror of his arms: but those who had nothing of this kind to
+dread, and more really his friends, made use of all the arguments in their
+power to prevail on him to return to Stockholm. France in particular sent
+courier after courier, remonstrating to him that his glory was complete;
+that he had already exceeded Alexander, and should now return covered, as
+he was, with lawrels, and let his subjects enjoy the blessing of his
+presence. The court of St. Germains added their entreaties to that of
+Versailles, but each were equally ineffectual; nor could even the thoughts
+of the beautiful princess Louisa, his betrothed spouse, and whom he was to
+marry at the end of this war, put a stop to the vehemence of his
+impatience to revenge the many injuries he had received from the czar of
+Muscovy.</p>
+<p>These were the sentiments by which this conquering monarch were
+agitated; but Horatio, tho' no less fond of glory, had a softness in his
+nature, which made him languish for the sight of his dear Charlotta, whom
+he had been absent from near two years; and being now blessed with a
+fortune from the plunder of Saxony, which might countenance his
+pretensions to her, passionately longed for an opportunity of returning
+without incurring the censure of cowardice or ingratitude. By these
+couriers he received letters from the baron de la Valiere, and several
+others of his friends, but none from the father of Charlotta; nor did any
+of them make any mention of that lady, tho' he knew the passion he had for
+her was now no secret to any of them.</p>
+<p>He was very much surprized that the baron de Palfoy had not wrote,
+because as he had in a manner promised to correspond with him by desiring
+him to write, he had a right to expect that favour when they came to
+Alranstadt; for till then it was scarce possible, by reason of the army's
+continual and uncertain motions; but he was much more so, that the baron
+de la Valiere had not been so good as to give him some information of an
+affair, of which he could not be insensible his peace so much depended:
+that he did not do it, he therefore presently concluded, was owing to the
+having nothing pleasing to acquaint him with.</p>
+<p>As love is always apprehensive of the worst that can possibly befal, he
+thought now of nothing but her being obliged to give her hand to some
+rival approved by her father:—what avails it, cried he, that fortune has
+raised me to an equality with her, if, by other means, I am deprived of
+her!</p>
+<p>He was beginning to give way to a despair little befitting a soldier,
+when another courier arriving from Versailles with dispatches to the king,
+he also received a packet, in which were three letters. The first he cast
+his eye upon had on it the characters of Charlotta: amazed and transported
+he hastily broke the seal, and found it contained these lines:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To Colonel</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"I have the permission of my father to pursue<br/>
+my inclinations, in giving you this testimony<br/>
+how sincerely I congratulate your good fortune;<br/>
+tho' I ought not to call it by that name, since I<br/>
+find every-body allows your rewards have not<br/>
+exceeded your merits; but as neither has been<br/>
+found deficient either for your ambition or the<br/>
+satisfaction of your friends, all who are truly such<br/>
+think you ought to be content, and run no future<br/>
+hazards.—Be assured you have many well-wishers<br/>
+here, among the number of whom you<br/>
+will be guilty of great injustice not to place<br/>
+<br/>
+CHARLOTTA DE PALFOY."</p>
+<p>How well were all the late anxieties he had endured attoned for by this
+billet; it was short indeed, and wrote with a more distant air than he
+might have expected, had the dear authoress been at liberty to pursue the
+dictates of her heart; but as it informed him it was permitted by her
+father, and was doubtless under his inspection, the knowledge that he had
+authorized her to write at all, was more flattering to his hopes of
+happiness than all she could have said without that Sanction. After having
+indulged the raptures this condescention excited, he proceeded to the
+rest, and found the next he opened was from the baron de Palfoy, who
+expressed himself to him in these terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To Colonel</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+"I think myself obliged to you for so much<br/>
+exceeding the character I gave you; but I<br/>
+value myself on knowing mankind, and am glad<br/>
+to find I was not deceived in you, when I expected<br/>
+you to do more than I durst venture on<br/>
+my own opinion to assure the count. He tells me,<br/>
+in a letter I received from him the last courier,<br/>
+that the victorious Charles XII. himself cannot<br/>
+behave with greater bravery in the time of action,<br/>
+nor more moderation after it is over.—This<br/>
+is a great praise, indeed, from such a man<br/>
+as he; and I acquaint you with it not to make<br/>
+you vain, for that would blemish the lustre of<br/>
+your other good qualities, but that you may<br/>
+know how to make proper acknowledgments to<br/>
+that minister."<br/>
+<br/>
+"Our court, I know, makes pressing influences<br/>
+to the king of Sweden not to carry on the way<br/>
+any farther: I wish they may succeed, or if they<br/>
+should not, that you might be able to find some<br/>
+opportunity of quitting the service for reasons<br/>
+which you will see in a letter that accompanies<br/>
+this, and to which nothing can be added to convince<br/>
+you what part you ought to take.—I<br/>
+shall therefore say no more than that I am, with<br/>
+a very tender regard,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+PALFOY"</p>
+<p>Rejoiced as he was at receiving a letter from the father of his
+mistress, wrote in a manner which he might look upon as a kind of
+confirmation he no longer would be refractory to his wishes, the latter
+part of it contained an enigma he could by no means comprehend.—It seemed
+impossible to him there could be any reasons prevalent enough to make him
+quit, with honour, a prince who had so liberally rewarded his service; but
+hoping a further explanation, he lost not any time in conjectures; and
+tearing open the other letter without giving himself time to examine the
+hand in which it was directed, found, to his inexpressible astonishment,
+the name of Dorilaus subscribed. It was indeed wrote by that gentleman,
+and contained at follows:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Dear Horatio</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+"Accidents, which at our parting neither of<br/>
+us could foresee, have doubtless long since<br/>
+made you cease to hope any continuance of that<br/>
+kindness my former behaviour seemed to promise;<br/>
+but never, perhaps did heaven deal its<br/>
+blessings with a more mysterious hand than it<br/>
+has done to you.—That seeming neglect in<br/>
+me, at a time when you were a prisoner among<br/>
+strangers, and had most need of my assistance,<br/>
+had the appearance of the greatest misfortune<br/>
+could befall you; yet has it been productive of<br/>
+the greatest good, and laid the foundation of a<br/>
+happiness which cannot be but lasting.—I reserve<br/>
+the explanation of this riddle till you arrive<br/>
+at Paris, where I now am, and intend to<br/>
+continue my whole life.—That I impatiently<br/>
+desire to see you, ought to be a sufficient inducement<br/>
+for you to return with as much expedition<br/>
+as possible:—I will therefore make this<br/>
+experiment of that affection, I might add duty,<br/>
+you owe me, and only give you leave to guess<br/>
+what recompence this proof of your obedience<br/>
+will entitle you to.—If therefore the king of<br/>
+Sweden is resolute to extend his conquests, entreat<br/>
+his permission to resign: I know the obligations<br/>
+you have to that excellent prince; but I<br/>
+know also you have others to me which cannot<br/>
+be dispensed with:—besides, his majesty's affairs<br/>
+cannot suffer by the loss of one man: yours<br/>
+will be in danger, if not totally ruined, by your<br/>
+continuance with him, and myself deprived at<br/>
+the same time of the only remaining comfort of<br/>
+my days.—Your sister left me soon after you<br/>
+did:—she went to Aix la Chapelle, since<br/>
+which I have never been able to hear any thing<br/>
+of her.—Let me not lose you both; if you<br/>
+have any regard for your own interest, or the<br/>
+peace of him whom you have ever found a father<br/>
+in his care and affection, and whom you will<br/>
+now find so more than you can possibly expect.<br/>
+<br/>
+DORILAUS."</p>
+<p>Impossible is it to conceive, without being in the very circumstances
+Horatio was, what a strange variety of mingled passions agitated his
+breast on having to read, and considered these letters:—to find such
+unhoped condescension from the baron de Palfoy and that Dorilaus was still
+living, and had the same, if not more tender inclinations for him than
+ever, the latter of which he had long since ceased to hope, was sufficient
+to have overwhelmed even the most phlegmatic person with an excess of
+joy:—but then the dark expressions in both these letters put his brain on
+the rack.—The baron had seemed to refer to an explanation of what he
+darkly hinted at in the letter of Dorilaus, but that he found rather more
+obsolete: he could imagine nothing farther than that Dorilaus having
+resolved to make him his heir, as he remembered some people said before he
+left England, on the knowledge of that intelligence the baron de Palfoy
+had consented to his marriage with mademoiselle Charlotta, and this, her
+being permitted to write to him confirmed.—This indeed was the supreme
+aim of his desires; and this it was that made him quit St. Germains, in
+hope of raising himself to a condition which might enable her to own her
+affection to him without a blush: but transporting as this idea was, it
+was mingled with disquiet, to reflect on the terms which both the Baron
+and Dorilaus seemed to insist on for the accomplishment of his wishes,
+tho' he impatiently longed to see Dorilaus after so long an absence.—Tho'
+in the possession of Charlotta all his hopes were centered, yet to leave a
+prince who had so highly favoured him, and under whose banners he had
+gained so much consideration, was a piece of ingratitude, which it was
+worse than death for him to be guilty of.—No! said he, it would be to
+render me unworthy of all the blessings they make me hope, should I
+purchase them on such conditions!—How can they demand them of me!—The
+Baron, Charlotta, and Dorilaus, have all of them the highest notions of
+honour, generosity and gratitude, and can they approve that in me, which I
+am certain they would not be guilty of themselves!—Sure it is but to try
+me, they seem to exact what they are sensible I cannot yield to, without
+the breach of every thing that can entitle me to esteem or love!</p>
+<p>Thus did he argue within himself for one moment; the next, other
+reasons, directly opposite to these, presented themselves.—Dorilaus,
+cried he, demands all my obedience;—all my gratitude:—without protection
+I had been an outcast in the world!—Whatever honours, whatever happiness
+I enjoy, is it not to him I owe them! Can I refuse then to comply with
+commands, which, he says, are necessary to his peace!—Besides, was it not
+Charlotta that inspired this ardor in me for great actions! Was not the
+possession of that charming maid, the sole end I proposed to myself in all
+I have undertaken! and shall I, by refusing her request, madly run the
+risque of losing her for ever!—Does not she wish, her father persuade,
+and Dorilaus enjoin me to return!—Does not love, friendship, duty call me
+to partake the joys that each affords!—And shall I refuse the tender
+invitation!—No! the world cannot condemn me for following motives such as
+these; and even the royal Charles himself is too generous not to acquit me
+of ingratitude or cowardice.</p>
+<p>It must indeed be confessed he had potent inducements for his return to
+Paris, to combat against those of continuing in the king of Sweden's
+service; and both by turns appeared so prevalent, that it is uncertain
+which would have got the better, had not an accident happened, which
+unhappily determined him in favour of the latter.</p>
+<p>Colonel Poniatosky, who had attended Stanislaus into Poland, now the
+disturbances of that kingdom were quieted, on hearing the king of Sweden
+was on some new expedition, obtained leave of Stanislaus to return to the
+camp, and implored his majesty's permission to be one of those who should
+partake the glorious toils he was now re-entering into. To which he
+replied, that he should be glad to have him near his person, but feared he
+would be wanted in Poland. No, may it please your majesty, resumed
+Poniatosky, there seems to be no longer any business in that kingdom for a
+soldier:—all seem ready to obey the royal Stanislaus out of affection to
+his person, and admiration of those virtues they are now perfectly
+convinced of; nor is Augustus in a condition to violate the treaty of
+resignation:—refuse me not therefore I beseech your majesty, continued
+he, falling upon both his knees, what I look on as my greatest happiness,
+as it is my greatest glory.</p>
+<p>The king seemed very well pleased at the emphasis with which he
+expressed himself; and having raised him from the posture he was in, be it
+so, cried he, henceforward we will be inseparable.</p>
+<p>Horatio was charmed with this testimony of love and zeal in a person,
+who had doubtless friends and kindred who would have been glad he had less
+attachment to a service so full of dangers as that of the king of Sweden,
+and somewhat ashamed he had ever entertained a thought of quitting it,
+resolved, as he had been more obliged, not to shew less gratitude than
+Poniatosky. Therefore, without any further deliberation, retired to his
+quarters, and prepared the following answers to the letters had been
+brought him. As all things in a lover's heart yields to the darling
+object, the first he wrote was to his mistress.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To mademoiseile</i> DE PALFOY.<br/>
+<br/>
+"With what transports I received yours,<br/>
+adorable Charlotta, I am little able to<br/>
+express!—To find I am not forgotten!—That<br/>
+what I have done is approved by her for<br/>
+whom alone I live, and whose praise alone can<br/>
+make me vain, so swallowed up all other considerations,<br/>
+that it had almost made me quit<br/>
+Alranstadt that moment, and fly to pour beneath<br/>
+your feet my gratitude and joy!—But<br/>
+glory, tyrannic glory, would not suffer me to<br/>
+obey the soft impulse, nor re-enjoy that blessing<br/>
+till conscious I deserved it better!—My friends<br/>
+over-rate my services; and tho' that partial indulgence<br/>
+is the ultimate of my ambition, I would<br/>
+dare not abuse what they are so good to offer."<br/>
+<br/>
+"To feast my long, long famished sight with<br/>
+gazing once more on your charms, I would<br/>
+forgo every thing but the hope of rendering myself<br/>
+one day more worthy of it!—Too dear I<br/>
+prize the good wishes you vouchsafe to have for<br/>
+me, not to attempt every thing in my power to<br/>
+prevent the disappointment of them: the little<br/>
+I have yet done, alas! serves but to prove how<br/>
+much the man, who has in view rendering himself<br/>
+acceptable to the divine Charlotta, dares<br/>
+to do, when dangers worthy of his courage<br/>
+present themselves.—A small time may, perhaps,<br/>
+afford me an opportunity:—yet did you<br/>
+know how dear this self-denial costs me, you<br/>
+would confess it the greatest proof of affection<br/>
+ever man gave:—permit me therefore to gratify<br/>
+an ambition which has no other aim than a<br/>
+justification of the favours I receive:—continue<br/>
+to look with a favourable eye on my endeavours,<br/>
+and they cannot then fail of such success,<br/>
+as may give me a claim to the glorious.<br/>
+title of my most adored and loved Charlotta's.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Everlasting Slave</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>To her father he wrote in the following manner:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the baron</i> DE PALFOY,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>My Lord</i>;<br/>
+<br/>
+"The favours your goodness confers upon<br/>
+me are such as can be equalled by but one<br/>
+thing in the world, and that is my just and<br/>
+grateful sense of them.—Charming would be<br/>
+the toils of war, did all employed in them meet<br/>
+a recompence like mine!—Is there a man, so<br/>
+mean, so poor in spirit, that praises such as I receive<br/>
+might not animate to actions worthy of<br/>
+them!—What acknowledgments can I make<br/>
+the count suitable to the immense obligations I<br/>
+owe him, for inspiring your lordship with sentiments,<br/>
+which, tho' the supreme wish of my<br/>
+aspiring soul, I never durst allow myself to<br/>
+hope; and which afford a prospect of future<br/>
+accumulated blessings, such as I could scarce<br/>
+flatter myself with being real, were not the transporting<br/>
+idea in some measure confirmed to me,<br/>
+by your having given a sanction to a correspondence<br/>
+I so lately despaired of ever obtaining!—Blessed<br/>
+change!—Extatic condescensions!—Fortune<br/>
+has done all she can for me, and anticipated<br/>
+all the good that, after a long train of<br/>
+services and approved fidelity, I scarce should<br/>
+have presumed to hope!—Oh my lord! I have<br/>
+no words to thank you as I ought! It is deeds<br/>
+alone, and rendering myself worthy of your<br/>
+indulgence, that must preserve your good opinion,<br/>
+and keep you from repenting having overwhelmed<br/>
+me with this profusion of happiness!—Yet<br/>
+how joyfully could I now pursue the<br/>
+rout to Paris, and content myself with owing<br/>
+every thing merely to your goodness, were I<br/>
+not with-held by all the considerations that<br/>
+ought to have weight with a man of honour!—My<br/>
+royal general is inflexible to the persuasions<br/>
+of almost all the courts in Christendom,<br/>
+and hurried by his thirst of fame, or some other<br/>
+more latent motive, has given orders to prepare<br/>
+for a march, where, or against whom, is yet a<br/>
+secret to the army; but by the preparations for<br/>
+it, we believe they are not short journeys we<br/>
+are to take.—Should I now quit a service<br/>
+where I have been promoted so much beyond<br/>
+my merit, what, my lord, but cowardice or ingratitude<br/>
+could be imputed to me as the motive!<br/>
+—Not all my reasons, powerful as they are,<br/>
+would have any weight with a prince, who is<br/>
+deaf to every thing but the calls of glory; and<br/>
+I must return loaden with his displeasure, and<br/>
+the reproaches of all I leave behind!—Now<br/>
+to return is certain infamy!—To go, is in pursuit<br/>
+of honour!—Your lordship will not therefore<br/>
+be surprized I make choice of the latter,<br/>
+since no hazard can be equal to that of forfeiting<br/>
+the little reputation I have acquired, and<br/>
+which alone can render me worthy any part of<br/>
+the favours I have received.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>I am</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>With the extremest respect and submission</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your lordship's<br/>
+<br/>
+Eternally devoted servant,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>The last and most difficult task he had to go thro', was the refusal he
+ must give to Dorilaus, who had laid his commands on him in such express
+ terms; and it was not without a good deal of blotting, altering, and
+ realtering, he at length formed an epistle to him in these terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To my more than father, my only patron,<br/>
+protector and benefactor, the most worthy<br/>
+DORILAUS.</i><br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most dear and ever honoured Sir,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+"To hear you are living, and still remember<br/>
+me with kindness, affords too great a<br/>
+transport to suffer me to throw away any thought<br/>
+either on the motives of your long silence,<br/>
+or that happiness, which you tell me, I may<br/>
+expect has been the produce of it:—it is<br/>
+sufficient for me to know I am still blessed in<br/>
+the favor of the most excellent person that<br/>
+ever lived, and am not in the least anxious for<br/>
+an explanation of any farther good.<br/>
+<br/>
+To tell you with how much ardency I long<br/>
+to throw myself at your feet, to relate to you<br/>
+all the various accidents that have befallen me<br/>
+since first you condescended to put me in the<br/>
+paths of glory, and to pour out my soul before<br/>
+you with thanksgiving, would be as impossible<br/>
+as it is for me at present to enjoy that blessing!—The<br/>
+king's affairs, it is true, would suffer<br/>
+nothing by my absence; but, sir, what would<br/>
+the world say of me, if, after a whole year of<br/>
+inactivity and idleness, I flew, on the first appearance<br/>
+of danger, and forsook a prince, by<br/>
+whom I have been so highly favoured?—Instead<br/>
+of the character I have always been ambitious<br/>
+of attaining, should I not be branded with<br/>
+everlasting infamy!—Put not therefore, I beseech<br/>
+you, to so severe a test that love and duty,<br/>
+to which you cannot have a greater claim than<br/>
+I a readiness to pay?—Did you command my<br/>
+life, it is yours:—I owe it to you, and with it<br/>
+all that can render it agreeable; but, sir, my<br/>
+honour, my reputation, must survive when I am<br/>
+no more; it was the first, and will be the last<br/>
+bent of my desires. No perils can come in any<br/>
+degree of competition with those of being deprived<br/>
+of that, nor any indulgencies of fortune<br/>
+compensate for the loss of it:—pardon then<br/>
+this enforced disobedience, and believe it is the<br/>
+only thing in which I could be guilty of it.—<br/>
+I very much lament my sister's absence, as I<br/>
+find by yours she went without your permission:<br/>
+time and reflection will doubtless bring her to a<br/>
+more just sense of what she, as well as myself,<br/>
+ought to have of your goodness to us, and make<br/>
+her return full of sincere contrition for having<br/>
+offended you. I should implore your favourable<br/>
+opinion of her actions in the mean time,<br/>
+were not all the interest I have in you too little<br/>
+to apologize for my own behaviour.—All, sir,<br/>
+I dare to implore is pardon for myself, and that<br/>
+you will be assured no son, no dependant whatever,<br/>
+would more rejoice in an opportunity of<br/>
+testifying his duty, affection, gratitude and submission,<br/>
+than him who is now constrained by<br/>
+ties, which I flatter myself you will not hereafter<br/>
+disapprove, to swerve in some measure<br/>
+from them, and whose soul and all the faculties<br/>
+of it are<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Entirely devoted to you</i>.<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>These dispatches being sent away, he became more composed, and set his
+whole mind on his departure, and taking leave of those friends and
+acquaintance he had contracted at Leipsic and Alranstadt; the time of the
+army marching being fixed in a few days, tho' what rout they were to take
+none, except count Piper, general Renchild, count Hoorn, and some few
+others of the cabinet council, were made privy to.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The king of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with
+an instance of Russian brutality, drives the czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken prisoner by
+the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where they suffer the extremest
+miseries</i>.</p>
+<p>The word at length being given, the tents were struck, the trumpets
+sounded, and the whole army was immediately in motion. Never was a more
+gay and glorious fight; the splendor of their arms, and the richness of
+their habits blazed against the sun; but what was yet more pleasing, and
+spread greater terror among their enemies, was the chearfulness that sat
+on every face, and shewed they followed with the utmost alacrity their
+beloved and victorious monarch.</p>
+<p>It was in the latter end of September, a season extremely cold in those
+parts, that they began their march but hardships were natural to the king
+of Sweden's troops; and as they perceived they were going into Lithuania,
+a place where their valour had been so well proved against the invading
+Muscovites, their cheeks glowed with a fresher red on the remembrance of
+their former victories. They passed near Dresden, the capital of the
+electorate of Saxony, and made Augustus tremble in his palace, tho' the
+word of the king, which ever was inviolable, had been given that he should
+enjoy those dominions in peace.</p>
+<p>During the course of this, the czar had fallen upon the frontiers of
+Poland above twenty times, not like a general, desiring to come to a
+decisive battle, but like a robber, plundering, ravaging, and destroying
+the defenceless country people, and immediately flying on the approach of
+any troops either of Charles XII or king Stanislaus. The Swedes in their
+march met several parties sent on these expeditions, but who retired on
+sight of the army into woods, and were most of them either killed or taken
+prisoners by detachments sent in pursuit of them by the king of Sweden.</p>
+<p>In their march towards Grodno they found the remains of an encampment,
+several pieces of cannon and ammunition of all forts, but not one creature
+to guard it, the troops to whom it belonged having all dispersed and hid
+themselves. On examining the tents, they were surprized with the sight of
+a very beautiful woman, who was lying on the ground in one of them, with
+three others, who seemed endeavouring to comfort her, and, by the respect
+they paid her, that they were her dependents; but had all of them their
+garments torn and bloody, their hair hanging in strange disorder about
+their ears, their flesh discoloured with bruises and other marks of
+violence, and, as well as their disconsolate superior, were spectacles of
+the utmost distress.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden himself, followed by general Hoorn, Poniatolky,
+Horatio, and several others, who hardly ever lost sight of him, came into
+this tent, and, being touched with so moving a scene, demanded the
+Occasion; on which the prostrate lady being told who it was that spoke,
+started suddenly up, and throwing herself at his feet:—Oh king! cried she
+in the German language, as famous for justice as for being invincible in
+war, revenge the cause of helpless innocence and virtue!—Oh let the
+murderous brutal Russians find heaven's vindictive arm in you its great
+vicegerent.—She was able to utter no more: the inward agonies she
+sustained, on being about to relate the story of her wrongs, became too
+violent for speech, and she sunk motionless on the earth. Two of the
+women, assisted by some Swedes, carried her out of the tent, as thinking
+the open air most proper to revive her; and she who remained, satisfied
+the king's curiosity in these words:</p>
+<p>May it please your majesty, said she, my mistress, that afflicted lady
+who just now implored your royal pity, is of the noble family of the
+Casselburgh, in Saxony, only daughter to the present count: her person,
+before these heavy misfortunes fell upon her, was deservedly reputed one
+of the most beautiful that graced the court of Dresden: her birth, her
+youth, her charms, and the great fortune it was expected she would be
+mistress of, attracted a great number of persons who addressed her for
+marriage: her own inclinations, as well as the count her father's
+commands, disposed of her to Emmermusky, a Polish nobleman; and she had
+been scarce one month a bride, before they unhappily took this journey to
+visit my lord's mother who lives at Travenstadt.—In our way we met a
+party of straggling Muscovites, who, notwithstanding the strict league
+between our elector and the czar, and the knowledge they had by our
+passports that we were Saxons, stripped us of every thing, killed all our
+men-servants and having given my lord several wounds, left him for dead
+upon the place, then dragged us miserable women to the camp.—My lady, in
+the midst of faintings, and when she was incapable even of flying to death
+for refuse, was brutally ravished, and we her wretched attendants suffered
+the same abuse.—Shame will not let me, continued she, blushing and
+weeping, acquaint your majesty with the shocking and repeated violations
+we were compelled to bear!—the wretches casting lots who first should
+gratify his monstrous desires!—We were all bound to trees, and without
+any means of opposition but our shrieks and cries to unrelenting
+heaven!—My lord having a little recovered himself, had crawled, as well
+as his wounds would give him leave, after us, and arrived even while the
+horrid scene was acting: rage giving him new strength and spirits; he
+snatched a sword that lay upon the earth, and sent to perdition the
+villain who was about to add to the dishonour which had been, alas! but
+too much completed by others. The death of their companion incensing the
+accursed Muscovites, they turned upon him, and in a moment laid him dead
+just at the feet of his ruined and almost expiring wife! After having
+satiated their wicked will, they left us, bound as we were, where we
+continued the remainder of the day and whole night, and had doubtless
+perished thro' hunger and extreme cold, if a second party had not passed
+that way, who having been out on a maroding, were then returning to the
+camp.—Being actuated by somewhat more compassion than the former, one of
+the officers made us be untied, and having heard our story, blamed the
+cruelty with which we had been treated, and brought us to his tent, the
+same we now are in, and ordered something should be given for our
+refreshment; but my lady has continued obstinate to dye, and to that end
+has refused all subsistence. This, oh invincible monarch! is the sad
+history of our misfortunes:—misfortunes, which, alas! can never be
+retrieved, nor admit any consolation but in the hope of vengeance!</p>
+<p>Here a torrent of tears closed the sad narration; and the king cried
+out, turning as he spoke to us that followed him,—It is the cause of
+heaven and earth, my friends, said he, to punish these barbarians, and
+shew them that there is a God; for sure at present they are ignorant of
+it!</p>
+<p>The generous monarch after this gave orders that these afflicted and
+abused woman should be escorted to a place of safety, and for that purpose
+halted for the space of two days, then proceeded towards Grodno with such
+expedition, that after-ages will look upon it as incredible that so large
+an army, and also encumbered with a great quantity of baggage, could have
+marched in the time they did.</p>
+<p>But the king of Sweden was on fire to encounter in person the czar of
+Muscovy, who, with about 2000 men, was then in that city: so great was his
+impatience, that he galloped before his troops, not above 600 of those
+best mounted being able to keep pace with him, till he came in sight of
+the south gate, which gave him entrance without any opposition, while the
+czar and his forces made their escape out at the north gate, not doubting
+but the king of Sweden's whole army were come up with him.</p>
+<p>He was afterward so much vexed and ashamed to think he had quitted the
+town to no more than 600 of the enemy, that, to retrieve a mistake which
+he feared might be looked upon as cowardice, being informed the body, of
+the army was near five leagues off, he sent a party of 1500 horse in order
+to surprize the king and his few guards. The Muscovites entered by night;
+but the alarm being given, the fortune which still had waited on the
+Swedish armies, immediately put them all to the rout; and the army soon
+after arriving, the conqueror lost no time, but pursued those that
+remained alive into the forest of Mensky, on the other side of which the
+czar had then entrenched himself, and had made the general rendezvous of
+the Russian army, which was continually divided into parties; and
+sometimes falling on the Swedes in the rear, and sometimes in the flank,
+very much annoyed them in their march: these brave men had also other
+difficulties to encounter with; the forest was so extremely thick, that
+the infantry were obliged to fell down trees every moment, during the
+whole time of their passage, to make way for the baggage and troops.</p>
+<p>Their industry and vigour surmounting all these obstacles, they once
+more found themselves in an open country, but on the banks of a river, on
+the opposite side of which were 20,000 Muscovites placed to oppose their
+crossing. The king made no delay, but quitting his horse, threw himself
+into the river, and was instantly followed by all the foot, while the
+troops under the command of general Renchild and Hoorn, galloped round
+thro' the morrass in which that river ended, and both together charged the
+enemy, who, after some faint shew of resistance, fled with the utmost
+precipitation. The whole army being now joined marched on toward the
+Boristhenes, but with fatigues which are impossible to be described:
+Horatio kept still close to the king, and whether he fought or marched,
+was on foot or on horsback, was always in his fight ready to bear his
+commands to the generals, or assist him in the time of danger. More than
+once had the conqueror been indebted to this young warrior, for turning
+the point of the destructive sword from giving him the same death he was
+dealing about to others; yet in all the dangers he had been in never had
+he received one wound, and this often made the king say, who was a firm
+believer in predestination, that heaven designed him for a soldier: his
+fortune, his valour, his activity, added to his obliging and modest
+behaviour, indeed rendered him so dear to his royal master, that there
+were very few, if any, to whom he gave greater marks of his favour. And
+had Dorilaus, or even Charlotta herself, all tender as she was, and
+trembling for the hazards she knew he had been exposed to, seen him thus
+caressed and honoured by the most glorious prince and greatest hero in the
+world, they could scarce have wished him to quit the post he was in, much
+less persuaded him to do it.</p>
+<p>He hitherto indeed had experienced only the happiness of a martial
+life, for the fatigues, hardships, and dangers of it he as little regarded
+as the intrepid and indefatigable prince he served; but now arrived the
+time which was to inflict on him the worst miseries of it, and make him
+almost curse a vocation he had been in his soul so much attached to.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden, with his usual success having passed the
+Boristhenes, encountered a party of 10,000 Muscovites and 6000 Calmuck
+Tartars; but they gave way on the first onset and fled into a wood, where
+the king, following the dictates of his great courage more than prudence,
+pursuing them, fell into an ambuscade, which, throwing themselves between
+him and three regiments of horse that were with him, hem'd him in, and now
+began a very unequal fight.—Many of the gallant Swedes were cut to
+pieces, and the Muscovites made quite up to his majesty:—two aid-de-camps
+were killed within his presence, his own horse was shot under him, and as
+an equerry was presenting him with another, both horse and man was struck
+dead in the same moment.—Horatio immediately alighted in order to mount
+the king, who now on foot behaved with incredible valour, in that action
+was surrounded and taken prisoner, as were several others that had fought
+near his person. He had the satisfaction, however, while they were
+disarming and tying his hands, to see colonel Dardoff with his regiment
+force thro' the Calmucks, and arrive timely enough to disengage the king,
+after which the army recovering its rank, and pouring in upon the enemy,
+he was not without hopes of regaining his liberty; but he was sat upon a
+horse and bound fast to the saddle, and compelled, with the others that
+were taken with him, to accompany the Muscovites in their flight, so was
+ignorant in what manner this re-encounter ended. Soon after repairing to
+the czar's quarters, these unfortunate officers of the king of Sweden
+were, with some others who had before become their prize, sent under a
+strong guard to Petersburgh, and thrown altogether into a miserable
+dungeon.</p>
+<p>It would be impossible to describe the horrors of this place:—light
+there was, but it was only so much as just served to shew to each of these
+unhappy sufferers the common calamity of them all.—The roof was arched
+indeed, but so low, that the shortest among them could scarce stand
+upright:—no kind of furniture, not even straw to cover the damp earthen
+floor, which served them for a seat by day and bed at night. Inured as
+they had been to hardships, the noisomeness of this dreadful vault killed
+many of them, and among the rest a young Swedish officer named
+Gullinstern, one with whom Horatio had contracted a very intimate
+friendship, and who, for his many excellent qualities, had been so dear to
+the king, that seeing him one day greatly wounded, and in danger of being
+taker, prisoner, that generous prince obliged him to mount on his own
+horse, and fought on foot himself till another could be brought.</p>
+<p>The light of this gentleman expiring in his arms, filled Horatio with
+so poignant an anguish, that he wanted but little of following him; and,
+indeed, had it not been for the sanguine hopes that the king would in a
+short time complete the ruin of the czar, and not only restore them
+liberty, but also add vengeance to it for the ill treatment they had found
+in his dominions, few, if any of them, had been able to support the
+miseries inflicted on them by these inhuman wretches, who, not content
+with burying them in a manner alive, for the dungeon they were in was deep
+underground, and allowing them no other food than bread and water once in
+four and twenty hours, made savage sport at their condition, ridiculed the
+conquests of their king, and spoke in the most opprobrious terms of his
+royal person, which, when some of them were unable to restrain themselves
+from answering in a manner befitting their duty and love of justice, they
+were silenced by the most cruel stripes.</p>
+<p>Thus were the officers of the king of Sweden, the meanest of whom were
+fit to be generals in any other army, subjected to the servile taunts, and
+insolent behaviour of wretches undeserving to be ranked among the human
+species.</p>
+<p>A very little time had doubtless made them all find graves among these
+barbarians; scarce a day passed over without their company decreasing by
+two or three, who were no sooner dead than dragged out by the heels, and
+thrown like dogs into a pit without the least funeral rites. But
+providence at length thought fit to send them a relief by means they least
+expected.</p>
+<p>In one of the incursions made by the Muscovites into Poland, a very
+beautiful lady, whose father had been killed in asserting the cause of
+Stanislaus, was made prisoner: prince Menzikoff, who commanded these
+batallions, saw her, and became enamoured of her charms: she was destitute
+of all friends, and in the conqueror's power, so thought it best to yield
+what otherwise she found him determined to seize: in fine, she was his
+mistress; and her ready compliance with his desires, together with the
+love she either had or feigned to have for him, afterward gained her an
+absolute ascendant over him. Every one knows the interest he had with the
+czar; and he so far exerted it, as to get this fair favourite lodged in
+the palace, where she was served with the same state and respect as if she
+had been his wife.</p>
+<p>This lady, whose name was Edella, happened to be walking with some of
+her attendants near where these unfortunate gentlemen were buried, at a
+time when three of them were dragged to their wretched sepulchre, was
+touched with compassion to see any thing that had a human shape thus
+coarsely treated, tho' after death, and had the curiosity to order one of
+her people to enquire who those persons were, and what they had done,
+which hindered them from being allowed a christian burial.</p>
+<p>She was no sooner informed that they were Swedish prisoners, than her
+soul shuddered at the thoughts of the Russian barbarity; and not doubting
+but their usage during life had been of a piece with that after their
+death, she resolved, if possible, to procure some abatement of the
+miseries of those who yet survived.</p>
+<p>To this end she made it her business to examine what number of
+prisoners had been brought, of what condition they were, and where lodged;
+and being well acquainted with all she wanted to know, went to the
+governor of Petersburg, and so well represented how dishonourable it was
+to the czar, and how opposite to the law of nations, to treat prisoners of
+war in a worse manner than they would do condemned felons, that he knowing
+the power of prince Menzikoff, and fearing to disoblige one so dear to him
+by a refusal, consented they should be removed into an upper part of the
+prison where they would have more air, and also that they should have an
+allowance of meat every day.</p>
+<p>As the governor was a true Muscovite in his nature and had an
+implacable hatred to the king of Sweden and all that belonged to him, this
+was gaining a great deal; but it was not enough to satisfy the charitable
+disposition of Edella; after their removal, she went in person to visit
+those of them whom she heard were gentlemen, and finding them covered only
+with rags, which some of the soldiers had put on them after having
+stripped them of their own rich habits, she ordered others lined with furs
+to be made for them, to defend them from the coldness of the season; and
+not content to retrench a great part of her own table, sold several fine
+jewels, and other trinkets the prince had bestowed on her, to supply them
+with wine, and whatever necessaries she supposed them to be accustomed to.
+That she might be certain those entrusted by her did not abuse her good
+intentions, she went often to the prison herself to see how they were
+served, and would sometimes enter into discourse with them concerning the
+battles they had been in, the settlement of Stanislaus, and many other
+things relating to the Polish affairs. The gallant and courtly manner in
+which Horatio expressed himself on every occasion, made her take a
+particular pleasure in hearing him speak: that rough blunt behaviour to
+which she had been accustomed since her being brought a captive into
+Muscovy, gave double charms to the politeness with which she found herself
+entertained by our young warrior; his blooming years, and the gracefulness
+of his person, contributed not a little also towards rendering every thing
+he said more agreeable. Her liking of him grew by degrees into a
+friendship, no less tender than that one feels for very near relations,
+and who have never done any thing to disoblige us, are more endeared by
+being under undeserved calamity: but as the inclination she had for him
+was perfectly innocent, and no ways prejudicial to the prince who was in
+possession of her person, she made no secret of it either to himself or
+those she conversed with, and was always talking of the wit, delicacy, and
+handsomeness of one of those prisoners, whom it was well known were
+pensioners to her bounty. But how dangerous is it to be too open before
+persons who, void of all true generosity, or the lead principle of honour
+themselves, never fail to put the worst construction on the actions of
+others. Edella was very near being undone by her sincerity in
+acknowledging the distinction she paid to merit, or the compassion she
+felt for misfortunes, in a country where humanity to enemies is looked
+upon as a crime, friendship to those of the same party altogether unknown,
+and even common civility never practised but for the gratification of
+self-interest, or some favourite passion.</p>
+<p>This beautiful Polander however being treated by the Muscovites, on
+account of the influence she had over the prince Menzikoff, with as much
+complaisance as it was in their power to shew, imagined their disposition
+less savage than it was in reality; and when she testified the pity she
+had for those unhappy gentlemen, it was with design to excite it in
+others, and engage them to join with her in petitioning the czar, at his
+return, for their enlargement, there being no cartel or exchange of
+prisoners subsisting between him and the king of Sweden.</p>
+<p>Among the number she hoped to gain to her party was Mattakesa, the
+relique of a general who had been in great favour with his prince. This
+lady, who could speak French, having learned it of a recusant that took
+shelter in Russia, consented to go with her one day to the prison, and no
+sooner saw Horatio, than, unfortunately for him, Edella, and herself, she
+became charmed with him: as she was of the number of those who think
+nothing a crime that suits their own inclination, she took not the least
+pains to subdue the growing passion, but rather indulged it, in order to
+receive the highest degree of pleasure in the gratification. She doubted
+not but Edella was her rival, and that it was for his sake alone she had
+been so beneficent to his fellow-sufferers: to supplant her, therefore,
+was the first step she had to take, and she resolved to omit nothing for
+that purpose.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The treachery of a Russian lady to her friend: her passion for
+Horatio: the method he took to avoid making any return, and some other
+entertaining occurrences.</i></p>
+<p>It is easy to believe that Horatio, tho' relieved from that
+extremity of misery he suffered while in the dungeon, was far from being
+able to content himself with his present condition:—a thousand times he
+reproached himself for pursuing the dictates of a glory which now seemed
+so tyrannic:—Have I, cried he, hazarded the eternal displeasure of the
+best of men,—refused the invitation of the adorable Charlotta,—slighted
+the condescentions of her father,—been deaf both to interest and love, to
+become a prisoner to the worst of barbarians!—Who now will pity me!—Or
+if they yet would be so good, how shall I acquaint them with my wretched
+fate!—Nay, were there even a possibility of that, what would the
+compassion of the whole world avail, since a slave to those, who,
+contrary to the law of nations, and even common humanity, refuse, on any
+terms, to release the wretches fallen into their savage power!</p>
+<p>In this manner did he bewail himself night and day, and indeed had but
+too just reasons for doing so:—he had heard that the last time the czar
+had been at Petersburg, he had sent all the prisoners he had then taken to
+Siberia, and other province of the greater Tartary, where they were
+compelled, without any distinction, to do the work of horses rather than
+men, and doubted not but at his next return all those now in his power
+would meet the same fate, tho' the generous king of Sweden had sent back
+the Muscovites he had taken, by 1500 and 2000 at a time.—This, however,
+may be said in favour of the czar, that by the many attempts he made to
+civilize his barbarous subjects, it must be supposed he would have been
+glad to have imitated this generosity, had it been confident with his
+safety; but the case had this difference, Charles XII. feared not the
+number of the Muscovites, but the czar feared the courage of the Swedes.</p>
+<p>What also increased the affliction of these gentlemen, was, that being
+debarred from all intelligence, they could hear nothing of their king,
+whom each of them loved with a kind of filial affection and duty.—Horatio
+and two others had been witnesses of the extreme danger in which they left
+him; and tho' at the time they were seized he had killed thirteen or
+fourteen Muscovites with his own hand, and they perceived general Dardoff
+had come up to his relief, yet they could not be certain of his safety;
+till at length the sweet-conditioned Edella perceiving the despair they
+were in on this account, informed them that his majesty was not only well,
+but as successful as ever; that he had passed far into Ukrania, had
+defeated the Muscovites in five battles, and so far reduced the czar, that
+he had condescended to make some overtures of peace; which having been
+rejected, it was the common opinion, that in a very short time the Swedes
+would enter Moscow, and become arbiters of Russia as they had been of
+Poland.</p>
+<p>Adequate to their late grief was their satisfaction at this joyful
+news:—Horatio was transported above his companions, and threw himself at
+the feet of the fair intelligencer; but she desired they would all of them
+moderate their contentment so far as to hinder the guards, who had the
+care of them, from perceiving it, because, said she, it might not only
+draw on yourselves worse treatment, but also render me suspected of being
+against the interest of a court, on which my fate has reduced me to become
+a dependant.</p>
+<p>Horatio, as well as the others, assured her he would take care to
+manage the felicity she had bestowed upon them, so as not to be any way
+prejudicial to her; and she took her leave, promising to be with them
+again in a few days, and bring them farther information, a courier from
+the camp, she said, being expected every hour.</p>
+<p>But while this compassionate lady was pleasing herself, by giving all
+the ease in her power to the distressed, the cruel Mattakesa was plotting
+her destruction.—She had several of her kindred, and a great many
+acquaintance in the army, who were in considerable posts, to all of whom
+she exclaimed against the loose behaviour, as she termed it, of Edelia,
+and represented her charities to the prisoners as the effects of a wanton
+inclination:—this she doubted not but would come to prince Menzikoff's
+ears, and perhaps incense him enough to cause her to be privately made
+away with; for as she imagined nothing less than the most amorous
+intercourse between her and Horatio, she thought it unadvisable to declare
+the passion she had for him, till a rival so formidable, by the advantages
+she had over her in youth and beauty, should be removed.</p>
+<p>This base woman therefore impatiently waited the arrival of the next
+courier, to find how far her stratagem had succeeded; and the moment she
+heard he had delivered his dispatches, flew to the apartment of Edella, in
+hopes of being informed of what she so much desired to know.</p>
+<p>She was not altogether deceived in her expectations: she found that
+lady drowned in tears, with a letter lying open before her; and on her
+enquiring, with a shew of the utmost concern, the motives of her grief,
+the other, who looked on her as her real friend, replied, alas! Mattakesa,
+I have cruel enemies; I cannot guess for what cause, for willingly I never
+gave offence to any one;—but see, continued she, how barbarously they
+have abused my innocence, and represented actions which, heaven knows,
+were influenced only by charity and compassion as the worst of crimes!
+with these words she gave her the letter which she had just received from
+the prince,</p>
+<p>Mattakesa took it with a greedy pleasure, and found it contained these
+lines:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To</i> EDELLA.<br/>
+<br/>
+Madam,<br/>
+<br/>
+"I left you in a place, furnished, as I thought,<br/>
+with every thing necessary for your satisfaction;<br/>
+but I find I was mistaken in your constitution,<br/>
+and that there was something wanting,<br/>
+which, rather than not possess, you must have<br/>
+recourse to a prison to procure:—ungrateful<br/>
+as you are to the affection I have treated you<br/>
+with, I am sorry for your ill conduct, and could<br/>
+with you had been, at least, more private in<br/>
+your amours: few men but would have sent an<br/>
+order for removing you and the persons, for<br/>
+whose sake you have made these false steps,<br/>
+into a place where you would have cause to<br/>
+curse the fatal inclination that seduced you:<br/>
+think therefore how much you owe a prince,<br/>
+who, instead of punishing your faults, contents<br/>
+himself with letting you know he is not ignorant<br/>
+of them.—If you make a right use of<br/>
+the lenity I shew on this occasion, you may<br/>
+perhaps retrieve some part of the influence you<br/>
+once had over me; but see the Swedish prisoners<br/>
+no more, if you hope or desire ever to see<br/>
+<br/>
+MENZIKOFF."</p>
+<p>Mattakesa affected the greatest astonishment on having read this
+letter; and after having cursed the persons that put such vile suspicions
+into the prince's head, asked her what she intended to do.</p>
+<p>What can I do! answered the sorrowful Edella, but write to my lord all
+the assurances that words, can give him, which heaven knows I can truly
+do, that I never wronged him even in wish or thought; and that since there
+are people so cruel to misinterpret to my dishonour, what was nothing but
+mere charity, to obey his commands with the utmost punctuality, and never
+set my foot into that prison more?</p>
+<p>Her false friend could not but applaud her resolution, yet told her it
+was pity that ill tongues should deprive those unfortunate gentlemen of
+the relief she had hitherto afforded them, or herself of the pleasure she
+took in their conversation.</p>
+<p>As for the first, said Edella, heaven may perhaps raise the mother
+friends more capable of lifting them; and as to the other, were it
+infinitely greater, it would be my inclination, as it is my duty, to
+sacrifice every thing to the will of a prince whom I love, and to whom I
+am so much obliged.</p>
+<p>Mattakesa having thus compared her design, so far as to be under no
+apprehensions of being interrupted by her imagined rival, tho' she had
+rather she had been poisoned or strangled, went directly to the prison and
+told the gentlemen, it was with the utmost concern she must acquaint them
+that Edella would never visit them any more, nor continue the weekly
+pension she had hitherto allowed them.</p>
+<p>Those among them who understood her, and the others to whom Horatio
+interpreted what she said, looked one upon another with a great deal of
+consternation, as imagining one of them had done something to offend her,
+and thereby the rest were thought unworthy of her favours.—Everyone
+endeavoured to clear himself of what he easily saw his companions
+suspected him guilty of; till Mattakesa, with a scornful smile, told them,
+that it was not owing to the behaviour of any of them, but to Edella's own
+inconstant disposition, that they owed the withdrawing of her bounty; but
+to console them for the loss of it, she promised to speak to some of her
+friends in their behalf, and also to contribute something herself towards
+alleviating their misfortunes; but, added she, I am not the mistress of a
+prince and first favourite, so have it not in my power to act as the
+generosity of my nature inclines me to do.</p>
+<p>She stayed with them a considerable time, and entertained them with
+little else than railing on Edella; and to make her appear as odious and
+contemptible as she could to Horatio, insinuated that it was for the sake
+of a young needy favourite she had been obliged to withdraw the allowance
+they had from her.</p>
+<p>On taking leave she found means to slip a little billet into Horatio's
+hands, unperceived by any of the company, which, as soon as he had a
+convenient opportunity, he opened, and found these words in French:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the agreeable</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"Tho' I have not perhaps so much beauty<br/>
+as Edella, I have twice her sincerity, and<br/>
+not many years older: such as I am, however,<br/>
+I fancy you will think a correspondence with<br/>
+me of too much advantage to be refused:—if<br/>
+you will counterfeit an indisposition, to-morrow<br/>
+I will out of excessive charity visit you, and<br/>
+bring you a refreshment, I flatter myself, will<br/>
+not be disagreeable to a man in your circumstances:—farewell;—be<br/>
+secret,—and love as well as you can,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+MATTAKESA."</p>
+<p>Of all the accidents that had befallen Horatio since his leaving
+England, none ever so much surprized him as the prodigious impudence of
+this lady: he had heard talk of such adventures, but never till now
+believed there could be any such thing in nature, as a woman that offered
+herself in this manner, without the least sollicitation from the person on
+whom she wished to lavish what ought only to be the reward of an approved,
+or at least a shew of the most violent passion.</p>
+<p>The dilemma he was in how to behave, was also equal to his
+astonishment:—had she been the most lovely of her sex, as she was very
+much the reverse, the ever present idea of his dear Charlotta would have
+defended his heart from the invasions of any other charms; but he needed
+not that pre-engagement to make him look with detestation on a woman of
+Mattakesa's principles:—when he reflected on what she had said concerning
+Edella, he found her base, censorious, and unjust:—and when he considered
+the manner in which she proceeded in regard to himself, he saw a lewdness
+and audacity which rendered her doubly odious, to him:—he doubted not but
+she was wicked and subtle enough to contrive some means of revenging
+herself, in case she met with a disappointment in her wishes, yet had too
+great an abhorrence to be able to entertain one thought of gratifying
+them.</p>
+<p>As he was young and unexperienced in the world, he would have been glad
+of some advice how to act so as not to incur her resentment, yet avoid her
+love; but the strict notions he had of honour remonstrated to him that he
+ought not to betray a secret of that nature, tho' confided in him by an
+ill woman.—Her baseness, cried he to himself, would be no excuse for
+mine; and it is better for me to risque whatever her malice may inflict,
+than forfeit my character, by exposing a woman who pretends to love me.</p>
+<p>These thoughts kept him waking the whole night; and his restlessness
+being observed by an old Swedish officer who by with him, he was very much
+importuned by him to discover to him the occasion.—Horatio defended
+himself for a good while by the considerations before recited; but at
+length reflecting; that the person who was so desirous of being let into
+the secret, had a great deal of discretion, he at length suffered himself
+to be prevailed upon, and told him what Mattakesa had wrote to him, for he
+did not understand a word of French, so could not read the letter.</p>
+<p>This officer no sooner heard the story, than he laughed heartily at the
+scruples of Horatio, in thinking himself bound to conceal an affair of
+this nature with a woman of the character Mattakesa must needs be:—he
+also rallied his delicacy, as he termed it, in hesitating one moment
+whether he should gratify the lady's inclinations.—One would imagine,
+said he, that so long a fall from love as we have had, should render our
+appetites more keen:—what, tho' Mattakesa be neither handsome nor very
+young, she is a woman, and amorous, and methinks there should need no
+other excitements to a young man like you.</p>
+<p>Horatio, tho' naturally gay, was not at present in a disposition to
+continue this raillery, and told his friend, he looked on this inclination
+of Mattakesa to be as great a misfortune as could happen to them; for,
+said he, as it is wholly out of my power to make her any returns, that
+violence of temper which has transported her to forget the modesty of her
+sex, will probably, when she finds herself rejected, make her as easily
+throw off all the softness of it; and you may all feel the effects of that
+revenge she will endeavour to take on me.</p>
+<p>The other was entirely of his opinion; and they both agreed that, some
+way ought to thought on to avert the storm, her resentment might in all
+probability occasion.</p>
+<p>After many fruitless inventions, they at last hit upon one which had a
+prospect of success: they had in their company a gentleman called Mullern,
+nephew to chancellor Mullern, who had attended the king in all his wars:
+he was handsome, well made, and his age, tho' much superior to that of
+Horatio, yet was not so far advanced as to render him disagreeable to the
+fair sex: he was of a more than ordinary sanguine disposition, and had
+often said, of all the hardships their captivity had inflicted on them, he
+felt none so severely as being deprived of a free conversation with
+women.—In the ravages the king of Sweden's arms had made in Lithuania,
+Saxony and Poland, he was sure to secure to himself three or four of the
+finest women; and tho' he had been often checked by his uncle, and even by
+the king himself, for giving too great a loose to his amorous
+inclinations, yet all their admonitions were too weak to restrain the
+impetuosity of his desires this way. To him, therefore, they resolved to
+communicate the affair; and as he was in other respects the most proper
+object among them to succeed in supplanting Horatio, so he was also by
+being perfectly well versed in the French language, which the rest were
+ignorant of.</p>
+<p>Accordingly they told him what had happened, shewed him the letter, and
+how willing Horatio would be to transfer all the interest he had in this
+lady to him, if he could by any means ingratiate himself into her favour.
+Mullern was transported at the idea; and the stratagem contrived among
+them for this purpose was executed in the following manner:</p>
+<p>Mattakesa was punctual to the promise she had made in her letter; and
+when she came into the room, where she usually found the gentlemen
+altogether, it being that where they dined, and saw not Horatio, she
+doubted not but he had observed her directions, and pretended himself
+indisposed, so asked for him, expecting to be told that he was ill; but
+when they answered that he was gone with one of the keepers to the top of
+the round tower, in order to satisfy his curiosity in taking a view of the
+town, she was confounded beyond expression, and could not imagine what had
+occasioned him to slight an assignation, she had flattered herself he
+would receive with extacy.</p>
+<p>As she was in a little resvery, endeavouring to comprehend, if
+possible, the motive of so manifest a neglect, Mullern drew near to her,
+and beginning to speak of the beauties of that fine city which the czar
+had erected in the midst of war, he told her, that having a little skill
+in drawing, he had ventured to make a little sketch of it in chalk on the
+walls of the room where he lay, and entreated her in the most gallant
+manner to look upon it, and give him her opinion how far he had done
+justice to an edifice so much admired.</p>
+<p>It cannot be supposed that Mattakesa had in her soul any curiosity to
+see a work of this nature, yet, to hide as much as she could the disorder
+she was in at her disappointment, gave him her hand, in order to be
+concluded to the place where he pretended to have been exercising his
+genius.</p>
+<p>As soon as they were entered he threw the door, as if by incident,
+which having a spring lock, immediately was made fast—She either did not,
+or seemed not to regard what he had done; but casting her eyes round the
+room, and seeing nothing of what he had mentioned,—Where is this drawing?
+cried she. In my heart, adorable Mattakesa, answered he, falling at her
+feet at the same time:—it is not the city of Petersburg, but the charming
+image of its brightest ornament, that the god of love has engraven on my
+heart in characters too indelible ever to be erased:—from the first
+moment I beheld those eyes my soul has been on fire, and I must have
+consumed with inward burnings had I not revealed my flame:—pardon,
+continued he, the boldness of a passion which knows no bounds; and tho' I
+may not be so worthy of your love as the too happy Horatio, I am certainly
+not less deserving of your pity.</p>
+<p>Surprize, and perhaps a mixture of secret satisfaction prevented her
+from interrupting him during the first part of his discourse; but rage, at
+the mention of Horatio, forced from her this exclamation:—has the villain
+then betrayed me! cried she.—No, madam, replied he, justice obliges me to
+acquit him, tho' my rival.—He had the misfortune, in putting your billet
+into his pocket, to let it fall; I took it up unseen by him,—opened it,
+read it, and must confess, that all my generosity to my friend was wholly
+swallowed up in my passion for you.—I returned not to him that kind
+declaration you were pleased to make him, and he is ignorant of the
+blessing you intended for him:—if the crime I have been guilty of seem
+unpardonable in your eyes, command my death, I will instantly obey you,
+for life would be a torment under your displeasure; and if, in my last
+moments, you vouchsafe some part of that softness to the occasion of my
+fate, that you so lavishly bestowed on the fortunate Horatio, I will bless
+the lovely mouth that dooms me to destruction!</p>
+<p>He pronounced all this with an emphasis, which made her not doubt the
+power of her charms; and surveying him while he was speaking, found enough
+in his person to compensate for the disappointment she had met with from
+Horatio: besides, she reflected, that if what he had told her concerning
+the dropping her letter, was a fiction, it was however an ingenious one,
+and shewed his wit, as well as love, in bringing both himself and friend
+off in so handsome a manner. She was infatuated with the praises he gave
+her;—the pathetic expressions he made use of, assured her of the ardency
+of his desires, and as she could not be certain of being able to inspire
+Horatio with the same, she wisely chose to accept the present offer,
+rather than wait for what might perhaps at last deceive her expectations.
+She made, however, no immediate answer; but her eyes told him she was far
+from being displeased with what he had said, and gave him courage to take
+up one of her hands and kiss it, with an eagerness which confirmed his
+protestations.</p>
+<p>At last,—Well, Mullern, said she, looking languishingly on him, since
+chance has made you acquainted with my foible, I think I must bribe you to
+secrecy, by forgiving the liberties you take with me:—and if I were
+convinced you really love me as well as you pretend, might indulge you yet
+farther.—An unaccountable caprice indeed swayed me in favour of Horatio,
+but I am now half inclinable to believe you are more deserving my
+regard;—but rise, continued she, I will hear nothing from you while in
+that posture.</p>
+<p>Mullern, who was no less bold in love than war, immediately obeyed her,
+and testified his gratitude for her condescention, by giving a sudden
+spring and snatching her to his breast, pressed her in so arduous a
+manner, that she would have been incapable of resisting, even tho' she had
+an inclination to do so: but she, no less transported than himself,
+returned endearment for endearment, and not only permitted, but assisted
+all his raptures,—absolutely forgot Horatio, as well as all sense of her
+own shame, and yielded him a full enjoyment without even an affectation of
+repugnance.</p>
+<p>Both parties, in fine, were perfectly satisfied with each other, and
+having mutually sworn a thousand oaths of fidelity which neither of them,
+it is probable, had any intention to keep, Mullern took upon himself the
+care of continuing to entertain her in private as often as she came to the
+prison, and in return she made him a present of a purse of gold, after
+which they passed into the outer room to prevent censures on their staying
+too long together.</p>
+<p>On their return they found Horatio with the other gentlemen. Abandoned
+as Mattakesa was, she could not keep herself from blushing a little at
+sight of him; but soon recovering herself by the help of her natural
+audacity,—Well, Horatio, said she, what do you think of the little French
+epigram I put into your hands yesterday;—has it not a very agreeable
+point?</p>
+<p>Horatio had such an aversion to all kind of deceit, that even here,
+where it was so necessary, he could not, without some hesitation, answer
+to what she said in these words.—Some accident or other, cried he,
+deprived me of the pleasure you were so good to intend me; for when I put
+my hand in my pocket thinking to read it, I perceived I was so unhappy as
+to have lost, it:—I looked for it in vain:—it was irrecoverably gone,
+and I am an utter stranger to the contents.</p>
+<p>And ever shall be so, replied she tartly, only to punish your
+carelessness of a lady's favour; know, that it was a piece of wit which
+would have been highly agreeable to you:—but don't expect I shall take
+the pains to write it over again, or even tell you the subject on which it
+turned.</p>
+<p>Horatio cooly said, he could not but confess he had been to blame, and
+must therefore allow the justice of her proceeding. As none present
+besides himself, his bedfellow, and Mullern, knew the truth of this
+affair, what passed between them was taken by the others as literally
+spoken, and little suspected to couch the mystery it really did.</p>
+<p>Mullern, after this, by the assistance of Horatio and the old officer,
+had frequent opportunities of gratifying his own and the amorous
+Mattakesa's desires.—The testimonies she gave him how well she was
+pleased with his conversation, were for the common good of his
+companions.—Horatio was easy in finding himself out of all danger of any
+solicitations he was determined never to acquiesce in; and those three who
+were in the secret passed their time pleasantly enough, whenever they had
+an opportunity of talking on this adventure, without any of the others
+being witnesses of what they said.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The prisoners expectations raised: a terrible disappointment: some
+of the chief carried to prince Menzikoff's palace: their usage there.
+Horatio set at liberty, and the occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>Our captives had soon after a new matter of rejoicing: a Polander in
+the service of Muscovy, who had been taken prisoner by the Swedes, and was
+discharged and sent home, with a great number of others, by the
+unparallell'd generosity of Charles XII. was one of the guards who now did
+duty in the prison. It was often his turn to bring them their poor
+allowance of provision; and having some pity for their condition, as well
+as gratitude for a people who had used him and his companions in a
+different manner, told them, that they might be of good heart, for, said
+he, you will soon be set at liberty:—our emperor has enough to do to keep
+his ground in Ukraina: Charles is as victorious as ever:—the prince of
+the Cosaques, one of the bravest men on earth, next to himself, has
+entered into an alliance with him:—king Stanislaus is sending him
+succours from Poland:—a powerful reinforcement is coming to him from
+Lithuania; and when these armies are joined, as I believe they already
+are, nothing can withstand them:—you will hear the Swedish march beat
+from this prison walls,—and perhaps see your present conquerors change
+places with you; and, to confirm the truth of what I say, continued he, I
+can further assure you that the czar, before I left the camp, was in the
+utmost confusion:—his council, as well as army, were at a stand, and he
+had twice made overtures of peace, and been refused.</p>
+<p>This was an intelligence which might well be transporting to the king
+of Sweden's officers:—the thought; of seeing him enter Petersburgh a
+conqueror,—of once more embracing their old friends and companions, and
+of triumphing over those who had so cruelly abused the power the chance of
+war had put into their hands, made them all, in their turns, hug and bless
+the kind informer:—they also asked him several questions concerning the
+generals; and each being more particular concerning those they had the
+greatest interest in, received from this honest soldier all the
+satisfaction they could desire.</p>
+<p>As couriers were continually arriving from the army, there passed few
+days without hearing some farther confirmation of their most sanguine
+expectations; but at length the guard being again changed, they lost all
+further intelligence, and were for several months without being able to
+hear any thing of what passed. They doubted not, however, but as things
+were in so good a disposition, every day brought them nearer to the
+completion of their wishes; and it was this pleasing prospect which
+addressed their misfortunes, and enabled them to sustain cheerfully those
+hardships which, almost ever since the withdrawing of Edella's bounty,
+they had laboured under.—Mattakesa, in the beginning of her amours with
+Mullern, had indeed made him some presents, which he shared with his
+companions; but either the natural inconstancy of her temper making her
+grow weary of this intrigue for the sake of another, or her circumstances
+not allowing her to continue such Donations, she soon grew sparing of
+them, and at length totally desisted her visits at the prison.</p>
+<p>As, ever since the compassionate Edella had procured them to be
+removed from the dungeon, they had enjoyed the privilege of walking on the
+leads, and going up to the round tower, which being of a very great
+height, not only overlooked the town, but the country round for a
+considerable distance, they frequently made use of this indulgence, at
+first for no other purpose than to have the benefit of the open air, but
+now in hope of seeing their beloved prince at the head of a victorious
+army approaching to give them liberty and relief.—But, alas! how terrible
+a reverse of their high-raised expectations had inconstant fortune in
+store for them.—One day as they were sitting together, discoursing on the
+usual topics with which they entertained each other, and endeavoured to
+beguile the tedious time, they heard a confused noise as of some sudden
+tumult.—Tho' they had now been above a year in Russia, none of them could
+speak the language well enough to be understood, so could receive no
+information from the guard, even should they have proved good-natured
+enough to be willing to satisfy their curiosity, so they all run hastily
+up to the round tower, whence they easily perceived the town in great
+confusion, and the people running in such crowds, that in the hurry many
+were trampled to death in endeavouring to pass the gates:—at a distance
+they perceived standards waving in the air, but could not yet distinguish
+what arms they bore.—A certain shivering and palpitation, the natural
+consequence of suspence, ran thro' all their nerves, divided as they were
+at this sight, between hope and fear; but when it drew more near,—when,
+instead of Swedish colours they beheld those of Russia;—when, in the
+place where they expected to see their gallant king coming to restore them
+once more to freedom, they saw the implacable czar enter in triumph,
+followed by those heroes, the least of whom had lately made him tremble,
+now in chains, and exposed to the ribald mirth and derision of the gaping
+crowd, they lost at once their fortitude, and even all sense of expressing
+their grief at this misfortune:—the shock of it was so violent, it even
+took away the power of feeling it, and they remained for some moments
+rather like statues carv'd out by mortal art, than real men created by
+God, and animated with living souls. A general groan was the first mark
+they gave of any sensibility of this dreadful stroke of fate; but when
+recruited spirits once more gave utterance to words, how terrible were
+their exclamations! Some of them, in the extravagance of despair, said
+things relating to fate and destiny, which, on a less occasion, could
+have little merited forgiveness.</p>
+<p>Unable either to remove from the place, or view distinctly what their
+eyes were fixed upon, they stayed till the whole cavalcade was passed,
+then went down and threw themselves upon the floor, where their ears were
+deafen'd by the noise of guns, loud huzza's, and other testimonies of
+popular rejoicings, both within and without the prison walls.—What have
+we now to expect? cried one,—endless slavery:—chains, infamy, lasting as
+our lives, replied another. Then let us dye, added a third. Right, said
+his companion feircely;—the glory of Sweden is lost!—Let us disappoint
+these barbarians, these Russian monsters, of the pleasure of insulting us
+on our country's fall.</p>
+<p>In this romantic and distracted manner did they in vain endeavour to
+discharge their breasts of the load of anguish each sustained.—Their
+misfortune was not of a nature to be alleviated by words;—it was too
+mighty for expression; and the more they spoke, the more they had yet to
+say.—For three whole days they refused the wretched sustenance brought to
+them; neither did the least slumber ever close their eyelids by night: on
+the fourth the keeper of the prison came, and told them they must
+depart.—They endeavoured not to inform themselves how or where they were
+to be disposed of; in their present condition all places were alike to
+them, so followed him, without speaking, down stairs, at the bottom of
+which they found a strong guard of thirty soldiers, who having chained
+them in a link, like slaves going to be sold at the market, conducted them
+to a very stately palace adjoining to that belonging to the czar.</p>
+<p>They were but eight in number, out of fifty-five who had been taken
+prisoners at the time Horatio was, and were thrown altogether in the
+dungeon, the others having perished thro' cold and the noysomeness of the
+place, before Edella had procured them a more easy situation; but these
+eight that survived were all officers, and most of them men of
+distinguished birth as well as valour, tho' their long imprisonment,
+scanty food, and more than all, the grief they at present laboured under
+made them look rather like ghosts, than men chose out of thousands to
+fight always near the king of Sweden's person in every hazardous attempt.</p>
+<p>They were placed in a stately gallery, and there left, while the
+officer, who commanded the party that came with them, went into an inner
+room, but soon after returned, and another person with him; on which, the
+first of this unhappy string was loosed from his companions, and a signal
+made to him to enter a door, which was opened for him, and immediately
+closed again.</p>
+<p>For about half an hour there was a profound silence: our prisoners kept
+it thro' astonishment; and the others, it is to be supposed, had orders
+for doing so.—At the end of that time the door was again opened, and the
+chain which fastened the second Swede to the others, was untied, and he,
+in like manner as the former, bid to go in.—In some time after, the same
+ceremony was observed to a third;—then to a fourth, fifth, sixth, and
+seventh:—Horatio chanced to be the last, who, tho' alarmed to a very
+great degree at the thoughts of what fate might have been inflicted on his
+companions, went fearless in, more curious to know the meaning of this
+mysterious proceeding, than anxious for what might befal him.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner passed the door, than he found himself in a spacious
+chamber richly adorned, at the upper end of which sat a man, leaning his
+head upon his arm in a thoughtful posture.—Horatio immediately knew him
+to be prince Menzikoff, whom he had seen during a short truce between the
+czar and king Charles of Sweden, when both their armies were in Lithuania.
+There were no other persons present than one who had the aspect of a jew,
+and as it proved was so, that stood near the prince's chair, and a soldier
+who kept the door.</p>
+<p>Horatio was bid to approach, and when he did so,—you are called
+hither, said the jew in the Swedish language, to answer to such questions
+as shall be asked you, concerning a conspiracy carried on between you and
+your fellow-prisoners with the enemies of Russia. Horatio understood the
+language perfectly well, having conversed so long with Swedes, but never
+could attain to a perfect pronounciation of it, so replied in French, that
+he knew the prince could speak French, and he would therefore answer to
+any interrogatories his highness should be pleased to make without the
+help of an interpreter.</p>
+<p>Are you not then a Swede? said the prince. Horatio then told him that
+he was not, but came from France into the service of the king of Sweden
+merely thro' his love of arms.</p>
+<p>On these words Menzikoff dismissed the jew, and looked earnestly on
+him; wan and pale as he was grown thro' his long confinement, and the many
+hardships he had sustained, this prince found something in him that
+attracted his admiration.—Methinks, said he, since glory was your aim,
+you might as well have hoped to acquire it under the banners of our
+invincible emperor.</p>
+<p>Alas! my lord, replied Horatio with a sigh, that title, till very
+lately, was given to the king of Sweden, and, I believe, whatever fate
+has attended that truly great prince, those who had the honour to be
+distinguished by him, will never be suspected either of cowardice or
+baseness.—It was by brave and open means our king taught his soldiers the
+way to victory, not by mean subterfuges and little plots:—I cannot
+therefore conceive for what reason I am brought hither to be examined on
+any score that has the appearance of a conspiracy.</p>
+<p>Yes, replied the prince feircely, you and your fellow-prisoners have
+endeavoured to insinuate yourselves into the favour of persons whom you
+imagined entrusted with the secrets of the government:—being prisoners of
+war, you formed contrivances for your escape, and attempted to inveigle
+others to accompany your flight.</p>
+<p>That every tittle of this accusation is false, my lord, cried Horatio,
+there needs no more than the improbability of it to prove.—Indeed the
+cruel usage we sustained, might have justified an attempt to free
+ourselves, yet did such a design never enter our heads:—we were so far
+from making use of any stratagems for that purpose, that we never made the
+least overture to any of the guards, who were the only persons we were
+allowed to converse with.</p>
+<p>How! said the prince interrupting him, were not your privileges
+enlarged by the interposition of a lady?—Did she not make you
+considerable allowances out of her own purse, and frequently visit you to
+receive your thanks?—And were you not emboldened by these favours to urge
+her to reveal what secrets were in her knowledge, and even to assist you
+in your escape?—You doubtless imagined you could prevail on her also to
+go with you:—part of this, continued he, she has herself confessed:—it
+will therefore be in vain for you to deny it:—if you ingenuously reveal
+these particulars she has omitted, you may hope to find favour; but it you
+obstinately persist, as your companions have done, in attempting to
+impose upon me, you must expect to share the same fate immediately.</p>
+<p>In speaking these words he made a sign to the soldier, who throwing
+open a large folding door, discovered a rack on which one of the Swedish
+officers was tied, and the others stood near bound, and in the hands of
+the executioner.</p>
+<p>This sight so amazed Horatio, that he had not the power of speaking one
+word;—till Mullern, who happened to be the person that was fastened upon
+the rack, cried out to him,—Be not lost in consideration, Horatio, said
+he; are we not in the hands of Muscovites, from whom nothing that is human
+can be expected?—rather prepare yourself to disappoint their cruelty, by
+bravely suffering all they dare inflict.</p>
+<p>Hold then, said Horatio, even Muscovites would chuse to have some
+pretence for what they do; and sure the first favourite and generalissimo
+of a prince, who boasts an inclination to civilize his barbarous subjects,
+will not, without any cause, torture them whom chance alone has put into
+his power, and who have never done him any personal injury.—By heaven,
+pursued he, turning to the prince, we all are innocent of any part of
+those crimes laid to our charge:—time, perhaps, if our declarations are
+ineffectual, will convince your highness we are so, and you will then
+regret the injustice you have done us.</p>
+<p>You all are in one story, cried the prince, but I am well assured of
+the main point:—the particulars is all I want to be informed of:—but
+since I am compelled to speak more plain, which of you is it for whose
+sake you all received such instances of Edella's bounty?—Whoever tells me
+that, even tho' it be the person himself, shall have both pardon and
+liberty.</p>
+<p>Impossible it is to express the astonishment every one was in at this
+demand: five of them had not the least notion what it meant; but Mullern,
+Horatio, and that friend to whom he had shewn the letter of Mattakesa, had
+some conjecture of the truth, and presently imagined that lady had been
+the incendiary to kindle the flame of jealousy in the prince's breast. The
+affair, however, was of so nice a nature, that they knew not how to
+vindicate Edella without making her seem more guilty, so contented
+themselves with joining with the others, in protesting they knew of no one
+among them who could boast of receiving any greater favours from her than
+his fellows, but that what she did was instigated merely by compassion,
+since she had never seen, or knew who any of them were, till after she had
+moved the governor in their behalf:—they acknowledged she had been so
+good as to come sometimes to the prison, in order to see if those she
+entrusted with her bounty had been faithful in the delivery of it; but
+that she never made the least difference between them, and never had
+conversation with any one of them that was not in the presence of them
+all. Mullern could not forbear adding to this, that he doubted not but the
+persons who had incensed his highness into groundless surmises, were also
+the same who had hindered her, by some false insinuations or other, from
+continuing the allowance her charity allowed them, and for the want of
+which they had since been near perishing.</p>
+<p>Prince Menzikoff listened attentively to what each said, and with no
+less earnestness fixed his eyes on the face of every one as they
+spoke.—Finding they had done, he was about giving some orders on their
+account, when the keeper of the prison came hastily into the room, and
+having entreated pardon for the interruption, presented a letter to the
+prince, directed for brigadier Mullern, and brought, he said, just after
+the prisoners were carried out.</p>
+<p>Menzikoff commended his zeal in receiving and bringing it to him, as it
+might possibly serve to give some light to the affair he was examining.</p>
+<p>Having perused it, he demanded which of them was named Mullern? I am,
+replied the brave Swede; and neither fear, nor am ashamed of any thing
+under that name.</p>
+<p>Hear then what is wrote to you by a lady, resumed the prince, with a
+countenance more serene than he had worn since their being brought before
+him, and presently read with a very audible voice these words:<br/>
+<br/>
+"That you have been so long without<br/>
+seeing me, my dear Mullern, or hearing<br/>
+from me, is not owing to any decrease in my<br/>
+affection, but to the necessity of my affairs:—if<br/>
+you have any regard for me remaining, I<br/>
+conjure you, if ever you are asked any questions<br/>
+concerning the frequent visits I have made<br/>
+you, to say I was sent by Edella, and that I was<br/>
+no more than her emissary in the assistance you<br/>
+received from me:—add also, that you have<br/>
+reason to believe her charity was excited by<br/>
+her liking one of your company:—mention<br/>
+who you think fit; but I believe Horatio, as<br/>
+the youngest and most handsome, will be the<br/>
+most likely to gain credit to what you say.—<br/>
+Depend upon it, that if you execute this commission<br/>
+artfully, I will recompence it by procuring<br/>
+your liberty:—nor need you have any<br/>
+scruples concerning it, for no person will be<br/>
+prejudiced by it, and the reputation preserved<br/>
+of<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+MATTAKESA."</p>
+<p>I suppose, said the prince, as soon as he had done reading, turning to
+Horatio, you are the person mentioned in the letter? Tho' I neither desire
+nor deserve the epithets given me there my lord, replied he, yet I will
+not deny but I am called Horatio.</p>
+<p>Well, resumed the prince with a half smile, I am so well pleased with
+the conviction this letter has given me, that I shall retain no resentment
+against the malicious author of it.</p>
+<p>He then ordered Mullern to be taken from the rack, which had never been
+strained; nor had he any intention, as he now assured him, to put him to
+the torture, but only to intimidate him, being resolved to make use of
+every method he could think of for the full discovery of every thing
+relating to the behaviour of his beloved Edella.—The other gentlemen had
+also their fetters taken off, and the prince asked pardon of them
+severally for the injury he had done them; then made them sit down and
+partake of a handsome collation at that table, before which they had so
+lately stood as delinquents at a bar.</p>
+<p>The Russians are excessive in their carouses, and prince Menzikoff
+being now in an admirable good humour, made them drink very freely:—to be
+the more obliging to his guests, he began the king of Sweden's health in a
+bumper of brandy, protesting at the same time, that tho' an enemy to his
+master, he loved and venerated the hero: Horatio on this ventured to
+enquire in what condition his majesty was; to which the prince replied,
+that being greatly wounded, he was obliged to leave the field, and, it was
+believed, had took the load toward the dominions of the grand signior,
+some of the Russian troops having pursued him as far as the Borysthenes
+where, by the incredible valour of a few that attended him, they had been
+beat back.</p>
+<p>The Swedish officers knew it must be bad indeed when their king was
+compelled to fly; and this renewed in them a melancholy, which it was not
+in the power of liquor, or the present civilities of the prince to
+dissipate: they also learned that the generals Renchild, Slipenbock,
+Hamilton, Hoorn, Leuenhaup, and Stackelburg, with the prince of
+Wirtemburg, count Piper, and the flower of the whole army, were prisoners
+at Muscow.</p>
+<p>The misfortune of these great men would have been very afflicting to
+those who heard it, could any thing have given addition to what they knew
+before.—Prince Menzikoff was sensible of what they felt, and to alleviate
+their grief, assured them that he would take upon him to give them all
+their liberty, without even exacting a promise from them never more to
+draw their swords against the czar, in case the king of Sweden should ever
+be able to take the field again.</p>
+<p>So generous a proceeding both merited and received their utmost
+acknowledgments: but he put an end to the serious demonstrations they were
+about to make him of their gratitude, by saying,—I pay you no more than I
+owe you:—I have wronged you:—this is but part of the retaliation I ought
+to make:—besides, added he laughing, Mattakesa promised Mullern his
+freedom; and as she has done me the good office, tho' undesignedly, of
+revealing to me her own treachery, I can do no less than assist her in
+fulfilling, her covenant.</p>
+<p>To prove how much he was in earnest, he called his secretary, and
+ordered him to make out their passports with all expedition, that they
+might be ready to depart next morning; after which he made them repose
+themselves in his palace the remainder of the night; which being in a
+manner vastly different from what they had been accustomed to of a long
+time, indeed ever since their quitting Alranstadt, they did not fail to
+do, notwithstanding the discontent of their minds.</p>
+<p>Prince Menzikoff, being now convinced of the fidelity of Edella, passed
+into her apartment, where the reconciliation between them took up so much
+time, that it was near noon next day before he appeared: his new guests
+had not quitted their chambers much sooner; but after reproaching
+themselves for having been so tardy, went altogether to take leave of the
+prince, and accept the passports he had been so good to order. As they
+were got ready, he gave them immediately into their hands, and told them,
+they were at liberty to quit Petersburg that moment, if they pleased; or
+if they had any curiosity to take a view of that city, they might gratify
+it, and begin their journey next morning. As it was now so late in the
+day, they accepted his highness's offer, and walked out to see a place
+which had excited so much admiration in the world, since from a wild
+waste, in ten years time, a spacious and most beautiful city had arose in
+the midst of war, and proved the genius of the founder greater in civil
+than in military arts, tho' it must be owned he was indefatigable in the
+study of both.</p>
+<p>The officers of the king of Sweden were entertained with the same
+elegance and good humour they had been the night before; and as they were
+now resolved to quit the city extremely early, the prince took leave of
+them that night, and in doing so put a purse of gold into the hands of
+every one to defray the expenses of their travelling. This behaviour
+obliged them to own there was a possibility of sowing the seeds of
+humanity in Muscovy, and that the czar had made some progress in
+influencing those about him with the manners he had himself learned in
+the politer courts.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>What befel Louisa in the monastery: the stratagem she put in
+practice to get out of it: her travels thro' Italy, and arrival in Paris</i>.</p>
+<p>But while Horatio was thus experiencing the vicissitudes of fortune,
+his beautiful sister suffered little less from the caprice of that fickle
+goddess. Placed as she was, one would have thought she had been secure
+from all the temptations, hurries, and dangers of the world, and that
+nothing but the death or inconstancy of monsieur du Plessis could have
+again involved her in them. These, indeed, were the sole evils she
+trembled at, and which she chiefly prayed might not befal her. Yet as it
+often happens that those disasters which seem most remote are nearest to
+us, so did the disappointments she was ordained to suffer, rise from a
+quarter she had the least reason to apprehend.</p>
+<p>The abbess and nuns, with whom she was, being all Italians, she set
+herself to attain to the knowledge of their language, in which she soon
+became a very great proficient, and capable of entertaining them, and
+being entertained by them in the most agreeable manner.—The sweetness of
+her temper, as well as her good sense, rendering her always ambitious of
+acquiring the affection of those she converted with, she had the secret to
+ingratiate herself not only to the youngest nuns, but also to the elder
+and most austere, that the one were never pleased but when in her company,
+and the others propose her as an example of piety and sweetness to the
+rest.</p>
+<p>She had a very pretty genius to poetry, and great skill in music, both
+which talents she now exercised in such works as suited the place and
+company she was in.—The hymns and anthems she composed were not only the
+admiration of that convent, but also of several others to whom they were
+shown, and she was spoke of as a prodigy of wit and devotion.</p>
+<p>In fine, her behavior rendered her extremely dear to the superior; and
+that affection joined to a spiritual pride, which those sanctified
+devotees are seldom wholly free from, made her very desirous of retaining
+her always in the convent:—she was therefore continually preaching up to
+her the uncertainty of those felicities which are to be found in the
+world, and magnifying that happy serenity which a total renunciation from
+it afforded;—nay, sometimes went so far, as to insinuate there was scarce
+a possibility for any one encumbered with the cares, and surrounded with
+the temptations of a public life, to have those dispositions which are
+requisite to enjoy the blessings of futurity.—Ah my dear daughter, would
+she say frequently to her, how much should I rejoice to find in you a
+desire to forgo all the transitory fleeting pleasures of the world, and
+devote yourself entirely to heaven!—what raptures would not your innocent
+soul partake, when wholly devoid of all thought of sensual objects! you
+would be, even while on earth, a companion for angels and blessed spirits,
+and borne on the wings of heavenly contemplation, have your dwelling
+above, and be worshipped as a saint below.</p>
+<p>All the old nuns, and some of the young ones, assisted their abbess in
+endeavouring to prevail on Louisa to take the veil; but all that they said
+made no impression on her mind, not but she had more real piety than
+perhaps some of those who made so great a shew of it, but she was of a
+different way of thinking; and tho' she knew the world had its temptation,
+having experienced them in a very great degree, yet she was-convinced
+within herself, that a person of virtuous principles might be no less
+innocent out of a cloyster than in one.—She saw also among this
+sisterhood a great deal of envy to each other, and perceived early that
+the flaming zeal professed among them was in some hypocrisy, and
+enthusiasm in others; so that had she had no prepossession in favour of du
+Plessis, or any engagement with him, the life of a nun was what she never
+should have made choice of.</p>
+<p>She kept her sentiments on this occasion entirely to herself however,
+and made no shew of any repugnance to do as they would have her; but
+whenever they became strenuous in their pressures, told them, she doubted
+not but such a life as they described must be very angelic, but having
+already disposed of her vows, it was not in her power to withdraw them,
+nor would heaven accept so violated an offering. This, they told her, was
+only a suggestion of some evil spirit, and that all engagements to an
+earthly object, both might and ought to be dispensed with for a divine
+vocation. The arguments they made use of for this purpose were artful
+enough to have imposed on some minds, but Louisa had too much penetration
+not to see thro' them; and being unwilling to disoblige them by shewing
+that she did so, made use, in her turn, of evasions which the
+circumstances of the case rendered very excusable. But fully persuaded in
+their minds that it was solely her engagements with du Plessis that
+rendered her so refractory to their desires, they resolved to break it
+off, if possible, and to that end now intercepted his letters; two of
+which giving an account that he was very much wounded and unable to
+travel, they renewed their pressures, in order to prevail on her to take
+the habit before he should be in a condition to come to Bolognia.</p>
+<p>These sollicitations, however, had no other effect than to embitter the
+satisfaction she would otherwise have enjoyed during her stay among
+them;—the time of which began now to seem tedious, and she impatiently
+longed for the end of the campaign, which she expected would return her
+dear du Plessis to her, and she should be removed from a place where
+dissimulation, a vice she detested, was in a manner necessary. She had
+received several letters from him before the abbess took it in her head to
+stop them, each more endearing than the former; and last had flattered her
+with the hope of seeing him in a very short time.</p>
+<p>Days, weeks, and months passed over, after an assurance so pleasing to
+her wishes, without any confirmation of the repeated vows he had made; and
+receiving from him no account of the reasons that delayed him, she began
+to reproach herself for having placed too much confidence in him;—the
+more time elapsed, the more cause she had to doubt his sincerity, and
+believe her misfortune real:—in fine, it was near half a year that she
+languished under a vain expectation of seeing, or at least hearing from
+him.—Sometimes she imagined a new object had deprived her of his heart;
+but when she called to mind the many proofs he had given her of the most
+unparallell'd generosity that ever was she could not think that if he even
+ceased to love her, he could be capable of leaving her in so cruel a
+suspence:—no, said she to herself, he would have let me know I had no
+more to depend on from him:—paper cannot blush, and as he is out of the
+reach of my upbraidings, he would certainly have acquainted me with my
+fate, confessed the inconstancy of his sex, and exerted that wit, of which
+he has sufficient, to have excused his change:—I will not therefore
+injure a man whom I have found so truly noble:—death, perhaps, his
+deprived me of him; the unrelenting sword makes no distinction between the
+worthy and unworthy;—and the brave, the virtuous du Plessis, may have
+fallen a victim in common with the most vulgar.</p>
+<p>These apprehensions had no sooner gained ground in her imagination,
+than she became the most disconsolate creature in the world. The abbess
+took advantage of her melancholy, as knowing the occasion of it, and began
+to represent, in the strongest terms, the instability of all human
+expectations:—you may easily see, my dear child, said she, that monsieur
+either no longer lives, or ceases to live for you:—young men are
+wavering, every new object attracts their wishes;—they are impatient for
+a time, but soon grow cool;—absence renders them forgetful of their vows
+and promises;—there is no real dependance on them;—fly therefore to that
+divine love which never can deceive you;—give yourself up to heaven, and
+you will soon be enabled to despise the fickle hopes of earth.</p>
+<p>Instead of saying any thing to comfort her, in this manner was she
+continually persecuted; and tho' it is impossible for any one to have less
+inclination to a monastic life than she had, yet the depression of her
+spirits, the firm belief she now should never see du Plessis more, the
+misfortune of her circumstances, joined to the artifices they made use of,
+and the repeated offers of accepting her without the usual sum paid on
+such occasions, might possibly at last have prevailed on her.—She was
+half convinced in her mind that it was the only asylum left to shield her
+from the wants and insults of the world; and the more she reflected on the
+changes, the perplexities, and vexation, of different kinds, the few years
+she yet had lived had presented her with, the more reason she found to
+acquiesce with the persuasions of the abbess. But heaven would not suffer
+the deceit practised on her to be crowned with success, and discovered it
+to her timely enough to prevent her from giving too much way to that
+despair, which alone could have prevailed with her to yield to their
+importunities.</p>
+<p>There was among the sisterhood a young lady called donna Leonora, who
+being one of many daughters of a family, more eminent for birth than
+riches, was compelled, as too many are, to become a nun, in order to
+prevent her marrying beneath her father's dignity. She had taken a great
+liking to Louisa from the moment she came into the convent, and a farther
+acquaintance ripened it into a sincere friendship. Tho' secluded from the
+world, the austere air of a monastery had no effect upon her, she still
+retained her former vivacity; and it was only in the conversations these
+two had toge whenever they could separate from the others, that Louisa
+found any cordial to revive her now almost sinking spirits.</p>
+<p>One day as she was ruminating on her melancholy affairs, this young nun
+came hastily into her chamber, and with a countenance that, before she
+spoke, denoted she had something very extraordinary to acquaint her
+with,—dear sister, cried she, I bring you the most surprising news, but
+such as will be my ruin if you take the least notice of receiving it from
+me; and perhaps your own, if you seem to be acquainted with it at all.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but Louisa gave her all the assurances she
+could desire of an inviolable secrecy; after which, know then, resumed
+this sweet-condition'd lady, that your lover, monsieur du Plessis, is not
+only living, but as faithful as your soul can wish, or as you once
+believed:—the cruelty of the abbess, and some of the sisterhood in the
+plot with her, have concealed the letters he has sent to you, in order to
+persuade you to become a nun:—I tremble to think of their hypocrisy and
+deceit:—but what, continued she, is not to be expected from bigotry and
+enthusiasm!—To increase the number of devotees they scruple nothing, and
+vainly imagine the means is sanctified by the end.</p>
+<p>Little is it in the power of words to express the astonishment Louisa
+was in to hear her speak in this manner; but as she had no room to doubt
+her sincerity, only asked by what means she had attained the knowledge of
+what the persons concerned, no doubt, intended to keep as much a secret as
+possible; on which the other satisfied her curiosity in these terms:</p>
+<p>To confess the truth to you, said she, I stole this afternoon into the
+chapel, in order to read a little book brought me the other day by one of
+my friends; as it treated on a subject not allowable in a convent, I
+thought that the most proper place to entertain myself with it; and was
+sitting down in one of the confessionals, when hearing the little door
+open from the gallery, I saw the abbess and sister Clara, who, you know,
+is her favourite and confidant, come in together, and as soon as they were
+entered, shut the door after them. I cannot say I had any curiosity to
+hear their discourse; but fearing to be suspected by them in my amusement,
+and not knowing what excuse to make for being there, if I were seen, I
+slid down, and lay close at the bottom of the confessional. They happened
+to place themselves very near me; and the abbess taking a letter out of
+her pocket, bad Clara read it, and tell her the substance of it as well as
+she could. I found it was in French, by some words which she was obliged
+to repeat over and over, before, not perfectly understanding the language,
+she could be able to find a proper interpretation of. The abbess, who has
+a little smattering of it herself, sometimes helped her out, and between
+them both I soon found it came from monsieur du Plessis, and contained the
+most tender and compassionate complaint of your unkindness in not
+answering his letter;—that the symptoms he had of approaching death were
+not half so severe to him as your refusing him a consolation he stood for
+much in need of;—that if you found him unworthy of your love, he was
+certainly so of your compassion; and concluded with the most earnest
+entreaty, you would suffer him to continue no longer in a suspence more
+cruel than a thousand deaths could be.</p>
+<p>Oh heaven! cried Louisa, bursting into tears, how ungrateful must he
+think me, and how can I return, as it deserves, so unexampled a constancy,
+ after such seeming proofs of my infidelity!—. Cruel, cruel, treacherous
+ abbess! pursued she; Is this the fruits of all your boasted
+ sanctity!—This the return to the confidence the generous du Plessis
+ reposed in you!—This your love and friendship to me!—Does heaven, to
+ increase the number of its votaries, require you to be false, perfidious,
+ and injurious to the world!</p>
+<p>She was proceeding in giving vent to the anguish of her soul in
+exclamations such as these; but Leonora begged she would moderate her
+grief, and for her sake, as much as possible, conceal the reasons she had
+for resentment. Louisa again promised she would do her utmost to keep them
+from thinking she even suspected they had played her false;—then cried,
+But tell me, my dear Leonora, were they not a little moved at the tender
+melancholy which, I perceive, ran thro' this epistle? Alas! my dear,
+replied the other, they have long since forgot those soft emotions which
+make us simpathize in the woes of love:—inflexible by the rigid rules of
+this place, and more by their own age, they rather looked with horror than
+pity on a tender inclination:—they had a long conversation together, the
+result of which was to spare nothing that might either persuade, or if
+that failed, compel you to take the order.</p>
+<p>It is not in their power to do the latter, interrupted Louisa; and this
+discovery of their baseness, more than ever, confirms me in the resolution
+never to consent.</p>
+<p>You know not what is in their power, said Leonora; they may make
+pretences for confining you here, which, as they are under no jurisdiction
+but the church, the church will allow justifiable:—indeed, Louisa,
+continued she, I should be loth to see you have recourse to force to get
+out of their hands which would only occasion you ill treatment:—to whom,
+alas, can you complain!—you are a stranger in this country, without any
+one friend to espouse your cause:—were even Du Plessis here in person, I
+know not, as they have taken it into their heads to keep you here, if all
+he could urge, either to the pope or confessory, would have any weight to
+oblige them to relinquish you. A convent is the securest prison in the
+world; and whenever any one comes into it, who by any particular endowment
+promises to be an ornament to the order, cannot, without great difficulty,
+disentangle themselves from the snares laid for them.—It is for this
+reason I have feared for you ever since your entrance; for tho' I should
+rejoice in so agreeable a companion, I know too well the miseries of an
+enforced attachment to wish you to be partaker of it.</p>
+<p>Louisa found too much reason in what she said, to doubt the misery of
+her condition;—she knew the great power of the church in all these
+countries where the roman-catholic religion is established, more
+especially in those places under the papal jurisdiction, and saw no way to
+avoid what was now more terrible to her than ever. Those reflections threw
+her into such agonies, that Leonora had much ado to keep her from falling
+into fits:—she conjured her again and again, never to betray what she had
+entrusted her with; assuring her, that if it were so much as guessed at,
+she should be exposed to the worst treatment, and punished as an enemy to
+the order of which she was a member. Louisa as often assured her that
+nothing should either tempt or provoke her to abuse that generous
+friendship she had testified for her; but as she was not able to command
+her countenance, tho' she could her words, she resolved to pretend herself
+indisposed and keep her bed, that she might be the less observed, or the
+change in her should seem rather the effects of ill health than any secret
+discontent.</p>
+<p>It was no sooner mentioned in the convent that she was out of order,
+than the abbess herself, as well as the whole sisterhood, came to her
+chamber, and shewed the greatest concern: the tender care they took of her
+would have made her think herself infinitely obliged to them, and perhaps
+gone a great way in engaging her continuance among them, had she not been
+apprized of their falshood in a point so little to be forgiven.</p>
+<p>So great an enemy was she to all deceit herself, that it was difficult
+for her to return the civilities they treated her with, as they might seem
+to deserve; but whatever omissions she was guilty of in this particular,
+were imputed to her disposition; and the whole convent continued to be
+extremely assiduous to recover her.</p>
+<p>During the time of her feigned illness, her thoughts were always
+employed on the means of getting away. Whenever Leonora and she were
+together, a hundred contrivances were formed, which seemed equally alike
+impracticable; but at length they hit upon one which had a promising
+aspect and Louisa, after some scruples, resolved to make trial of. It was
+this:</p>
+<p>As hypocrisy was made use of to detain her, hypocrisy was the only
+method by which she could hope to get her liberty:—pretending, therefore,
+to be all at once restored to her former health, she sent to entreat the
+abbess, and some other of the most zealous of the sisterhood to come into
+her chamber, where, as soon as they entered, they found her on her knees
+before the picture of the virgin, and seeming in an extacy of devotion:
+Yes, holy virgin, cried she, as if too much taken up to see who entered, I
+will obey your commands;—I will devote myself entirely to thee;—I will
+follow where thou callest me: thou, who hast restored me, shalt have the
+first fruits of my strength:—and oh that Lorretto were at a greater
+distance,—to the utmost extent of land and sea would I go to seek
+thee!—In uttering these ejaculations she prostrated herself on the
+floor;—then rising again, as transported in a manner out of herself,—I
+come,—I come, cried she;—still do I hear thy heavenly voice!</p>
+<p>In this fit of enthusiasm did she remain for above half an hour, and so
+well acted her part, that the abbess, who would not offer to interrupt
+her, believed it real, and was in little less agitation of spirit than
+Louisa pretended to be.</p>
+<p>At length seeming; to come to herself, she turned towards the company,
+as tho' she but just then discovered they were in the room; Oh, madam,
+said she to the abbess, how highly favoured have I been this blessed
+night!—The virgin has herself appeared to me, whether in a vision, or to
+my waking eyes, I cannot well determine; but sure I have been in such
+extacies, have felt such divine raptures, as no words can express!</p>
+<p>Oh my dear daughter! cried the abbess, how my soul kindles to behold
+this change in thee!—but tell me what said the holy virgin!</p>
+<p>She bad me wait on her at Lorretto, answered she, and gave me hopes of
+doing something wonderful in my favour:—I will therefore, with your
+permission, undertake a pilgrimage and at her shrine expiate the offences
+of my past life in tears of true contrition, and then return a pure and
+fearless partaker of the happiness you enjoy in an uninterrupted course of
+devotion:—oh! exclaimed she, exalting her voice, how do I detest and
+despise the vanities and follies of the world!—how hate myself for having
+been too much attached to them, and so long been cold and negligent of my
+only happiness!</p>
+<p>The abbess, and, after her, all the nuns that were present, embraced
+Louisa,—praised to the skies this miraculous conversion, as they termed
+it, and spared nothing to confirm the pious resolution she had taken.</p>
+<p>In fine, they consented to her pilgrimage with a satisfaction equal to
+what she felt in undertaking it,—they not in the least doubting but she
+would return to them as soon as she had fulfilled her devotions, and
+flattering themselves that the report of this miracle would do the
+greatest honour to their convent that it could possibly receive; and she,
+delighted with the thoughts of being at liberty to enquire after her dear
+du Plessis, and being freed from a dissimulation so irksome to her nature.</p>
+<p>Her pilgrim's habit, and a great crucifix to carry between her hands,
+with another at her girdle, and all the formalities of that garb being
+prepared, she set forward with the prayers and benedictions of the whole
+sisterhood, who told her, that they should be impatient till they saw her
+again, and expected great things from her at her return, which, in
+reality, they all did, except Leonora, who laughed heartily at the
+deception she had put upon them, and whispered in her ear as she gave her
+the last embrace, that she wished her a happy meeting with that saint she
+went in search of.</p>
+<p>To prevent all suspicion of her intention she left her cloaths, and
+every thing she had brought into the convent, under the care of the
+abbess, saying, that, at her return, she would have them disposed of, and
+the money given to the poor: but, unknown to any one except Leonora, she
+quilted some pieces of gold and valuable trinkets into her undergarment,
+as not doubting but she should have occasion for much more than, in
+effect, she was mistress of.</p>
+<p>When on her journey, the pleasure she felt at seeing herself out of the
+walls of the monastery, was very much abated by the uncertainty how she
+should proceed, or where direct her way: and indeed, let any one figure to
+themselves the condition she was in, and they will rather wonder she had
+courage to go on, than that she was sometimes daunted even to despair.—A
+young creature of little more than eighteen years old,—wholly
+unacquainted with fatigue,—delicate in her frame,—wandering alone on
+foot in the midst of a strange country,—ignorant of the road, or had she
+been acquainted with it, at a loss where to go to get any intelligence of
+what she sought, and even doubtful if the person she ran such risques to
+hear of, yet were in the world or not. The letter Leonora had informed her
+of, gave no account, at least that she could learn, either where he was,
+or whether there were any hopes of his recovery from that illness it
+mentioned; she had therefore every thing to dread, and little, very little
+to hope: yet did she not repent her having quitted the convent; and the
+desire of getting still farther from it, made her prosecute her journey
+with greater strength and vigour than could have been expected: her
+pilgrim's habit was not only a defence against any insults from persons
+she met on the road, but also attracted the respect, and engaged the
+civilities of every one.—As that country abounds with religious houses,
+she was not only lodged and fed without any expence, but received a piece
+of money at each of them she went to, so that her little stock, instead of
+being diminished, was considerably increased when she came to Lorretto,
+for thither, not to be false in every thing, she went; and being truly
+sorry for the hypocrisy which a sad necessity alone could have made her
+guilty of, paid her devotion with a sincere heart, tho' free from that
+enthusiasm and bigotry which is too much practised in convents.</p>
+<p>From Lorretto she crossed the country to Florence, every one being
+ready to direct a holy pilgrim on her way, and assist her with all things
+necessary. As she went very easy journeys, never exceeding four or five
+miles a day, she easily supported the fatigue; and had she been certain at
+last of seeing du Plessis, it would have been rather a pleasure to her;
+but her mind suffered much more than her body during this pilgrimage,
+which she continued in the same manner she had begun till she reached
+Leghorn, where a ship lying at anchor, and expecting to sail in a few days
+for Marseilles, she agreed to give a small matter for her passage, the
+sea-faring-men not paying altogether so much regard to her habit, as the
+land ones had done.</p>
+<p>No ill accident intervening, the vessel came safely into her desired
+port, and Louisa now found herself in the native country of the only
+person who engrossed her thoughts: as she had heard him say he was of
+Paris, she supposed that the most likely place to hear news of him, but
+was in some debate within herself whether she should continue to wear her
+pilgrim's habit, or provide herself with other cloaths at Marseilles. She
+was weary of this mendicant way of travelling, and could have been glad to
+have exchanged it for one more agreeable to the manner in which she had
+been accustomed; but then, when she considered how great a protection the
+appearance she made, had been from all those insults, to which a person of
+her sex and age must otherwise infallibly have been exposed in travelling
+alone, she resolved not to throw it off till she came to the place where
+she intended to take up her abode, at least for some time. Young as she
+was, she had well weighed what course to take in case du Plessis should
+either be dead, or, by some accident, removed where she could hear nothing
+more of him; and all countries and parts being now equal to her, as she
+must then be reduced once more to get her bread by her labour, she doubted
+not but to find encouragement for her industry as well in Paris as
+elsewhere.</p>
+<p>With this resolution, therefore, after laying one night at Marseilles,
+she proceeded on her way in the same fashion as she had done ever since
+she left Bolognia, and in about six weeks got safely to that great and
+opulent city, where she took up her lodging at a hotel, extremely
+fatigued, as it is easy to believe, having never even for one day ceased
+walking, but while she was on board the ship which brought her to
+Marseilles, for the space of eight months; a thing almost incredible, and
+what perhaps no woman, but herself, would have had courage to undertake,
+or resolution to perform, but was, in her circumstances, infinitely the
+most safe and expedient that prudence could suggest.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Shews by what means Louisa came to the knowledge of her parents,
+with other occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>The first thing she did on her arrival, was to send for proper persons
+to equip her in a manner that she might once more appear herself,
+resolving that till she could do so, not to be seen in the streets.</p>
+<p>While these things were preparing, she sent a person, whom the people
+of the house recommended to her, to the palace of the prince of Conti, not
+doubting but that some of the gentlemen belonging to his highness might
+give some intelligence where monsieur du Plessis was to be found; but the
+messenger returned without any other information, than that they knew him
+very well, but could give no directions in what part he was at present, he
+not having been seen in Paris for a long time.</p>
+<p>It is hard to say whether she most rejoiced or grieved at this account:
+she imagined that had he been dead they would not have been ignorant of
+it, therefore concluded him living to her infinite satisfaction; but then
+his absenting himself from the capital of the kingdom, and from the
+presence of a prince who had so much loved him, filled her with an
+adequate disquiet, as believing some very ill accident must have been the
+occasion:—she dispatched the same person afterwards to all the public
+places that she heard gentlemen frequented, but met not with the least
+success in her enquiries. It would prolong this narrative to a tedious
+length, should I attempt any description of what she felt in this
+situation, or the reflections she made on the odd circumstances of her
+life:—the greatness of her spirit, and the most perfect resignation to
+the divine will, however, made her support even this last and severest
+trial with fortitude and patience; and as soon as she had put herself into
+a convenient neat garb, but plain, befitting her condition, she went out
+with a design to take a private lodging, where she might live more cheaply
+than she could at the hotel, till providence should throw some person in
+the way that might recommend her either to work, or to teach young ladies
+music.</p>
+<p>She was wandering thro' several of the streets of Paris, without being
+able, as yet, to find such a chamber as she wanted, when a great shower of
+rain happening to fall, she stood up under the porch of a large house for
+shelter till it should be over, which it was not for a considerable time;
+and the street being very dirty, she returned to the hotel, intending to
+renew her search the next day: she had not been come in above half an
+hour, before the man of the house told her that a servant, in a very rich
+livery, who, he perceived, had followed her, and had asked many questions
+concerning her, was now returned, and desired to speak with her.</p>
+<p>As du Plessis was ever in her thoughts, a sudden rush of joy overflowed
+her heart, which seemed to her the presage of seeing him, tho' how he
+should imagine she was in Paris was a mystery:—but she gave herself not
+much time for reflection, before she ordered the man to be admitted.</p>
+<p>The manner of his approaching her was very respectful; but the message
+he had to deliver seemed of a contrary nature.—After having asked if her
+name was Louisa, and she answering that it was, I come, madam, said he,
+from a gentleman who saw you stand just now at the gate of a house in the
+Fauxbourg St. Germains, he commands me to tell you, that he has something
+of moment to acquaint you with, and desires you will permit me to call a
+chair, and attend you to his house, where he is impatient to receive you.</p>
+<p>What, indeed, could Louisa think of a person who should send for her in
+this manner?—all the late transport she was in, was immediately converted
+into disdain and vexation at being taken, as she had all the reason in the
+world to suppose, for one of those common creatures who prostitute their
+charms for bread.—</p>
+<p>Tell your master, said she, that by whatever accident he has learned my
+name, he is wholly ignorant of the character of the person he has sent you
+to:—that I am an entire stranger at Paris, and he must have mistaken me
+for some other, who, perhaps, I may have the misfortune to resemble, and
+may be also called as I am;—at least I am willing to think so, as the
+only excuse can be made for his offering this insult:—but go, continued
+she, with that pride which is natural to affronted virtue;—go, and
+convince him of his error;—and let me hear no more of it.</p>
+<p>It was in vain he assured her that his master was a person of the
+highest honour, and that he was not unknown to her. All he could say had
+not the least effect unless to enflame her more; when, after asking his
+name, the fellow told her he was forbid to reveal it, but that he was
+confident she would not deny having been acquainted with him when once she
+saw him.</p>
+<p>I shall neither own the one, cried she, nor consent to the other; then
+bid him a second time be gone, with an air which shewed she was not to be
+prevailed upon to listen to his arguments.</p>
+<p>This man had no sooner left her than she fell into a deep study, from
+which a sudden thought made her immediately start:—the count de Bellfleur
+came into her head; and she was certain it could be no other than that
+cruel persecutor of her virtue, that her ill fate had once more thrown in
+her way.—As she knew very well, by what he had done, that he was of a
+disposition to scruple nothing for the attainment of his wishes, she
+trembled for the consequences of his discovering where she was.—The only
+way she could think on to avoid the dangers she might be exposed to on his
+account, was to draw up a petition to the prince of Conti, acquainting him
+that she was the person who was near suffering so much from the ill
+designs he had on her at Padua, when so generously referred by monsieur du
+Plessis, and to entreat his highness's protection against any attempts he
+might be safe enough to make.</p>
+<p>She was just sitting down, in order to form a remonstrance of this
+kind, when a chariot and six stopping at the door, she was informed the
+gentleman who had sent to her was come in person, and that they knew it
+was the same by the livery.—Louisa run hastily to the window and saw a
+person alight, whom, by the bulk and stature, she knew could not be the
+count she so much dreaded, this having much the advantage of the other in
+both. Somewhat reassured by this sight, she ordered the master of the
+hotel to desire him to walk into a parlour, and let him know she would
+attend him there.</p>
+<p>As she saw not the face of this visitor, she could not be certain
+whether it were not some of those she had been acquainted with at Venice,
+who having, by accident, seen her at Paris, might, according to the
+freedom of the French nation, take the liberty of visiting her;—but
+whoever it were, or on what score soever brought, she thought it best to
+receive him in a place where, in case of any ill usage, she might readily
+have assistance.</p>
+<p>The master of the hotel perceiving her scruples, readily did as he was
+ordered, and Louisa having desired that he, or some of his people, would
+be within call, went down to receive this unknown gent, tho' not without
+emotions, which at that moment she knew not how to account for.</p>
+<p>But soon after she was seized with infinitely greater, when, entering
+the parlour, she found it was no other than Dorilaus who had given her
+this anxiety.—Surprize at the sight of a person whom, of all the world,
+she could least have expected in that place, made her at first start back;
+and conscious shame for having, as she thought, so ill rewarded his
+goodness, mixed with a certain awe which she had for no other person but
+himself, occasioned such a trembling, as rendered her unable either to
+retire or move forward to salute him, as she otherwise would have done.</p>
+<p>He saw the confusion she was in, and willing to give it an immediate
+relief, ran to her, and taking her in his arms,—my dear, dear child, said
+he, am I so happy to see thee once more!—Oh! sir, returned she
+disengaging herself from his embrace, and falling at his feet!—How can I
+look upon you after having flown from your protection, and given you such
+cause to think me the most ungrateful creature in the world!</p>
+<p>It was heaven, answered he, that inspired you with that abhorrence of
+my offers, which, had you accepted, we must both have been eternally
+undone!—You are my daughter, Louisa! pursued he, my own natural
+daughter!—Rise then, and take a father's blessing.</p>
+<p>All that can be said of astonishment would be far short of what she
+felt at these words:—the happiness seemed so great she could not think
+it real, tho' uttered from mouth she knew unaccustomed to deceit:—a
+hundred times, without giving him leave to satisfy her doubts, did she cry
+out, My father!—my father!—my real father!—How can it be!—Is there a
+possibility that Louisa owes her being to Dorilaus!</p>
+<p>Yes, my Louisa, answered he, and flatter myself, by what I have
+observed of your disposition, you have done nothing, since our parting,
+that might prevent my glorying in being the parent of such a child.</p>
+<p>The hurry of spirit she was in, prevented her from taking notice of
+these last words, or at least from making any answer to them, and she
+still continued crying out,—Dorilaus, my father!—Good heaven! may I
+believe I am so blessed?—Who then is my mother!—Wherefore have I been so
+long ignorant of what I was!—And how is the joyful secret at last
+revealed!</p>
+<p>All these things you shall be fully informed of, answered he; in the
+mean time be satisfied I do not deceive you, and am indeed your father:
+transported to find my long lost child, whom I myself knew not was so till
+I believed her gone for ever;—a thousand times I have wished both you and
+Horatio were my children, but little suspected you were so, till after his
+too eager ambition deprived me of him, and my mistaken love drove you to
+seek a refuge among strangers.</p>
+<p>Tears of joy and tenderness now bedewed the faces of both father and
+daughter:—silence for some moments succeeded the late acclamations; but
+Dorilaus at length finding her fully convinced she was as happy as he said
+she was, and entirely freed from all those apprehensions which had
+occasioned her flying from him, told her he was settled in Paris; that he
+lived just opposite to the house where she had stood up on account of the
+shower, and happening to be at one of his windows immediately knew her;
+that he sent a servant after her, who had enquired how long she had been
+arrived, and in what manner she came; that he had sent for her with no
+other intent then to make trial how she would resent it, and was
+transported to find her answer such as he hoped and had expected from
+her:—he added, that he had all the anxiety of a father to hear by what
+means she had been supported, and the motive which induced her to travel
+in the habit of a pilgrim, as the matter of the hotel had informed his
+servant; but that he would defer his satisfaction till she should be in a
+place more becoming his daughter.</p>
+<p>On concluding these words he called for the master of the hotel, and
+having defrayed what little expences she had been at since her coming
+there, took her by the hand and led her to his chariot, which soon brought
+them to a magnificent, house, and furnished in a manner answerable to the
+birth and fortune of the owner.</p>
+<p>Louisa had all this time seemed like one in a dream:—she had ever
+loved Dorilaus with a filial affection; and to find herself really his
+daughter, to be snatched at once from all those cares which attend penury,
+when accompanied with virtue, and an abhorrence of entering into measures
+inconsistent with the strictest honour, to be relieved from every want,
+and in a station which commanded respect and homage, was such a surcharge
+of felicity, that she was less able to support than all the fatigues she
+had gone thro'—Surprize and joy made her appear more dull and stupid than
+she had ever been in her whole life before; and Dorilaus was obliged to
+repeat all he had said over and over again, to bring her into her usual
+composedness, and enable her to give him the satisfaction he required.</p>
+<p>But as soon as she had, by degrees, recollected herself, she modestly
+related all that had happened to her from the time she left him;—the
+methods by which she endeavoured to earn her bread,—the insults she was
+exposed to at mrs. C—l—ge's;—the way she came acquainted with
+Melanthe;—the kindness shown her by that lady;—their travels
+together;—the base stratagem made use of by count de Bellfleur to ruin
+her with that lady—the honourable position monsieur du Plessis had
+professed for her;—the seasonable assistance he had given her, in that
+iminent danger she was in from the count's unlawful designs upon her;—his
+placing her afterwards in the monastry,—the treachery of the abbess;—the
+artifice she had been obliged to make use of to get out of the
+nunnery;—her pilgrimage;—in fine, concealed no part of her adventures,
+only that which related to the passion she had for du Plessis, which she
+endeavoured, as much as she could, to disguise, under the names of
+gratitude for the obligations he had conferred upon her, and admiration of
+his virtue, so different from what she had found in others who had
+addressed her.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, however, easily perceived the tenderness with which she was
+agitated on the account of that young gentleman, but he would not excite
+her blushes by taking any notice of it, especially as he found nothing to
+condemn in it, and had observed, throughout the course of her whole
+narrative, she had behaved on other occasions with a discretion far above
+her years, he was far from wronging her, by suspecting she had swerved
+from it in this.</p>
+<p>But when he heard the vast journey she had come on foot, he was in the
+utmost amazement at her fortitude, and told her he was resolved to keep
+her pilgrim's habit as a relique, to preserve to after-ages the memory of
+an adventure, which had really something more marvellous in it than many
+set down as miracles.</p>
+<p>And now having fully gratified his own curiosity in all he wanted to be
+informed of, he thought proper to case the impatience she was in to know
+the history of her birth, and on what occasion it had been so long
+concealed, which he did in these or the like words:</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXIV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The history of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other circumstances very
+important to Louisa</i>.</p>
+<p>You know, said he, that I am descended of one of the most illustrious
+families in England, tho', by some imprudencies on the one side, and
+injustice on the other, my claim was set aside, and I deprived of that
+title which my ancestors for a long succession of years had enjoyed, so
+that the estate I am in possession of, was derived to me in right of my
+mother, who was an heiress. It is indeed sufficient to have given me a
+pretence to any lady I should have made choice on, and to provide for what
+children I might have had by her: but the pride of blood being not abated
+in me by being cut off from my birthright, inspired me with an
+unconquerable aversion to marriage, since I could not bequeath to my
+posterity that dignity I ought to have enjoyed myself:—I resolved
+therefore to live single, and that the misfortune of my family should dye
+with myself.</p>
+<p>In my younger years I went to travel, as well for improvement, as to
+alleviate that discontent which was occasioned by the sight of another in
+possession of what I thought was my due.—Having made the tour of Europe,
+I took France again in my way home:—the gallantry and good breeding of
+these people very much attached me to them; but what chiefly engaged my
+continuance here much longer than I had done in any other part, was an
+acquaintance I had made with a lady called Matilda: she was of a very good
+family in England, was sent to a monastry merely for the sake of
+well-grounding her in a religion, the free exercise of which is not
+allowed at home, and to seclude her from settling her affections on any
+other than the person she was destined to by the will of her parents, and
+to whom she had been contracted in her infancy:—she was extremely young,
+and beautiful as an angel; and the knowledge she was pre-engaged, could
+not hinder me from loving her, any more than the declarations I made in
+her hearing against marriage, could the grateful returns she was pleased
+to make me:—in fine, the mutual inclination we had for each other, as it
+rendered us deaf to all suggestions but that of gratifying it, so it also
+inspired us with ingenuity to surmount all the difficulties that were
+between our wishes and the end of them.—Tho' a pensioner in a monastry,
+and very closely observed, by the help of a confidant she frequently got
+out, and many nights we passed together;—till some business relating to
+my estate at length calling me away, we were obliged to part, which we
+could not do without testifying a great deal of concern on both
+sides:—mine was truly sincere at that time, and I have reason to believe
+her's was no less so; but absence easily wears out the impressions of
+youth: as I never expected to see her any more, I endeavoured not to
+preserve a remembrance which would only have given me disquiet, and, to
+confess the truth, soon forgot both the pleasure and the pain I had
+experienced in this, as well as some other little sallies of my unthinking
+youth.</p>
+<p>Many years passed over without my ever hearing any thing of her; and it
+was some months after I received your letter from Aix-la-Chappelle, that
+the post brought me one from Ireland: having no correspondence in that
+country, I was a little surprized, but much more when I opened it and
+found it contained these words:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To</i> DORILAUS.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"This comes to make a request, which I<br/>
+know not if the acquaintance we had<br/>
+together in the early part of both our lives,<br/>
+would be sufficient to apologize for the trouble<br/>
+you must take in complying with it:—permit<br/>
+me therefore to acquaint you, that I have long<br/>
+laboured under an indisposition which my physicians<br/>
+assure me is incurable, and under which<br/>
+I must inevitably sink in a short time; but<br/>
+whatever they say, I know it is impossible<br/>
+for me to leave the world without imparting<br/>
+to you a secret wholly improper to be entrusted<br/>
+in a letter, but is of the utmost importance<br/>
+to those concerned in it, of whom yourself<br/>
+is the principal:—be assured it regards<br/>
+your honour, your conscience, your justice, as<br/>
+well as the eternal peace of her who conjures<br/>
+you, with the utmost earnestness, to come immediately<br/>
+on the receipt of this to the castle of<br/>
+M——e, in the north of Ireland, where, if<br/>
+you arrive time enough, you will be surprized,<br/>
+tho' I flatter myself not disagreeably so, with<br/>
+the unravelling a most mysterious Event.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours, once known by the name of</i> MATILDA,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>now</i><br/>
+<br/>
+M——E."</p>
+<p>I will not repeat to you, my dear Louisa, continued Dorilaus, the
+strange perplexity of ideas that run thro' my mind after having read this
+letter:—I was very far from guessing at the real motive of this
+invitation; which, however, as I once had a regard for that lady, I soon
+determined to obey; and having left the care of my house to a relation of
+mine by the mother's side, I went directly for Ireland; but when I came
+there, was a little embarrassed in my mind what excuse I should make to
+her husband for my visit.—Before I ventured to the castle, I made a
+thorough enquiry after the character of this young lady, and in what
+manner she lived with her lord. Never did I hear a person more universally
+spoke well of:—the poor adored her charity, affability, and condescending
+sweetness of disposition:—the rich admired her wit, her virtue, and good
+breeding:—her beauty, tho' allowed inferior to few of her sex, was the
+least qualification that seemed deserving praise:—to add to all this,
+they told me she was a pattern of conjugal affection, and the best of
+mothers to a numerous race of Children;—that her lord had all the value
+he ought to have for so amiable a wife, and that no wedded pair ever lived
+together in greater harmony; and it was with the utmost concern, whoever I
+spoke to on this affair concluded what they related of her with saying,
+that so excellent an example of all that was valuable in womankind would
+shortly be taken from them;—that she had long, with an unexampled
+patience, lingered under a severe illness which every day threatened
+dissolution.</p>
+<p>These accounts made me hesitate no farther:—I went boldly to the
+castle, asked to speak with the lord M——e, who received me with a
+politeness befitting his quality: I told him that my curiosity of seeing
+foreign countries had brought me to Ireland, and being in my tour thro'
+those parts, I took the liberty of calling at his seat, having formerly
+had the honour of being known to his lady when at her father's house, and
+whom I now heard, to my great concern, was indisposed, otherwise have been
+glad to pay my respects to her. The nobleman answered, with tears in his
+eyes, that she was indeed in a condition such as give no hope of her
+recovery, but that she sometimes saw company, tho' obliged to receive them
+in bed, having lost the use of her limbs, and would perhaps be glad of the
+visit of a person she had known so long.</p>
+<p>On this I told him my name, which he immediately sent in; and her woman
+not long after came from her to let me know she would admit me. My lord
+went in with me; and to countenance what I said, I accosted her with the
+freedom of a person who had been acquainted when children, spoke of her
+father as of a gentleman who had favoured me with his good-will, tho', in
+reality, I had never seen him in my life, but remembered well enough what
+she had mentioned to me concerning him, and some others of her family, to
+talk as if I had been intimate among them. I could perceive she was very
+well pleased with the method I had taken of introducing myself; and, to
+prevent any suspicion that I had any other business with her than to pay
+my compliments, made my visit very short that day, not doubting but she
+would of herself contrive some means of entertaining me without witnesses,
+as she easily found her lord had desired I would make the castle my home
+while I stayed in that part of the country.</p>
+<p>I was not deceived; the next morning having been told her lord was
+engaged with his steward, she sent for me, and making some pretence for
+getting rid of her woman, she plucked a paper from under her pillow, and
+putting it into my hand,—in that, said, you will find the secret I
+mentioned in my letter;—suspect not the veracity of it, I conjure you,
+nor love the unfortunate Horatio and Louisa less for their being mine.</p>
+<p>I cannot express the confusion I was in, continued Dorilaus, at her
+mentioning you and your brother, but I had no opportunity of asking any
+questions:—her woman that instant returned, after which I stayed but a
+short time, being impatient to examine the contents, which, as near as I
+can remember, were to this purpose:<br/>
+<br/>
+"You were scarce out of France before I<br/>
+discovered our amour had produced such<br/>
+consequences as, had my too fond passion given<br/>
+me leave to think of, I never should have hazarded:—I<br/>
+will not repeat the distraction I<br/>
+was in;—you may easily judge of it:—I<br/>
+communicated the misfortune to my nurse,<br/>
+who you know I told you went from England<br/>
+with me, and has often brought you messages<br/>
+from the convent:—the faithful creature did<br/>
+her utmost to console me for an evil which was<br/>
+without a remedy:—to complete my confusion,<br/>
+my father commanded me home; my lord<br/>
+M——e was returned from his travels:—we<br/>
+were both of an age to marry; and it<br/>
+was resolved, by our parents, no longer to<br/>
+defer the completion of an affair long before<br/>
+agreed upon.—I was ready to lay violent hands<br/>
+on myself, since there seemed no way to conceal<br/>
+my shame; but my good nurse having set<br/>
+all her wits to work for me, found out an expedient<br/>
+which served me, when I could think<br/>
+of nothing for myself.—She bid me be of<br/>
+comfort; that she thought being sent for home<br/>
+was the luckiest thing that could have happened,<br/>
+since nothing could be so bad as to have my<br/>
+pregnancy discovered in the convent, as it<br/>
+infallibly must have been had I stayed a very little<br/>
+time longer: she also assured me she would<br/>
+contrive it so, as to keep the thing a secret<br/>
+from all the world.—I found afterwards she<br/>
+did not deceive me by vain promises.—We<br/>
+left Paris, according to my father's order, and<br/>
+came by easy journeys, befitting my condition,<br/>
+to Calais, and embarked on board the packet for<br/>
+Dover; but then, instead of taking coach for London,<br/>
+hired a chariot, and went cross the country<br/>
+to a little village, where a kinswoman of my<br/>
+nurse's lived.—With these people I remained<br/>
+till Horatio and Louisa came into the world:—I<br/>
+could have had them nursed at that place, but<br/>
+I feared some discovery thro' the miscarriage of<br/>
+letters, which often happens, and which could<br/>
+not have been avoided being sent on such occasions;—so<br/>
+we contrived together that my<br/>
+good confident and adviser should carry them<br/>
+to your house, and commit the care of them<br/>
+to you, who, equal with myself, had a right to<br/>
+it:—she found means, by bribing a man that<br/>
+worked under your gardener, to convey them<br/>
+where I afterwards heard you found and received<br/>
+them as I could wish, and becoming the<br/>
+generosity of your nature.—I then took coach<br/>
+for London, pretending, at my arrival, that I<br/>
+had been delayed by sickness, and to excuse my<br/>
+nurse's absence, said she had caught the fever<br/>
+of me;—so no farther enquiry was made, and<br/>
+I soon after was married to a man whose worth<br/>
+is well deserving of a better wife, tho' I have<br/>
+endeavoured to attone for my unknown transgression<br/>
+by every act of duty in my power:—nurse<br/>
+stayed long enough in your part of the<br/>
+world to be able to bring me an account how<br/>
+the children were disposed of.—That I never<br/>
+gave you an account they were your own, was<br/>
+occasioned by two reasons, first, the danger of<br/>
+entrusting such a thing by the post, my nurse<br/>
+soon after dying; and secondly, because, as I<br/>
+was a wife, I thought it unbecoming of me to<br/>
+remind you of a passage I was willing to forget<br/>
+myself.—A long sickness has put other thoughts<br/>
+into my head, and inspired me with a tenderness<br/>
+for those unhappy babes, which the shame<br/>
+of being their mother hitherto deprived them<br/>
+of.—I hear, with pleasure, that you are not<br/>
+married, and are therefore at full liberty to<br/>
+make some provision for them, if they are yet<br/>
+living, that may alleviate the misfortune of<br/>
+their birth. Farewell; if I obtain this first and<br/>
+last request, I shall dye well satisfied."<br/>
+<br/>
+"<i>P.S.</i> Burn this paper, I conjure you, the moment<br/>
+you have read it; but lay the contents<br/>
+of it up in your heart never to be forgotten."</p>
+<p>I now no longer wondered, pursued Dorilaus, at that impulse I had to
+love you;—I found it the simpathy of nature, and adored the divine
+power.—After having well fixed in my mind all the particulars of this
+amazing secret, I performed her injunction, and committed it to the
+flames: I had opportunity enough to inform her in what manner Horatio had
+disposed of himself, and let her know you were gone with a lady on her
+travels: I concealed indeed the motive, fearing to give her any occasion
+of reproaching herself for having so long concealed what my ignorance of
+might have involved us all in guilt and ruin.</p>
+<p>I stayed some few days at the castle, and then took my leave: she said
+many tender things at parting concerning you, and seemed well satisfied
+with the assurances I gave her of making the same provision for you, as I
+must have done had the ceremony of the church obliged me to it. This
+seemed indeed the only thing for which she lived, and, I was informed,
+died in a few days after.</p>
+<p>At my return to England I renewed my endeavours to discover where you
+were, but could hear nothing since you wrote from Aix-la-Chappelle, and
+was equally troubled that I had received no letters from your brother.—I
+doubted not but he had fallen in the battle, and mourned him as
+lost;—till an old servant perceiving the melancholy I was in, acquainted
+me that several letters had been left at my house by the post during my
+absence, but that the kinsman I had left to take care of my affairs had
+secreted them, jealous, no doubt, of the fondness I have expressed for
+him.—This so enraged me, when on examination I had too much reason to be
+assured of this treachery, that I turned my whole estate into ready money,
+and resolved to quit England for ever, and pass my life here, this being a
+country I always loved, and had many reasons to dislike my own.</p>
+<p>Here I soon heard news of my Horatio, and such as filled me with a
+pleasure, which wanted nothing of being complete but the presence of my
+dear Louisa to partake of it.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus then went on, and acquainted her with the particulars of
+Horatio's story, as he had learned it from the baron de Palfoy, with whom
+he now was very intimate; but as the reader is sufficiently informed of
+those transactions, it would be needless to repeat them; so I shall only
+say that Dorilaus arrived in France in a short time after Horatio had left
+it to enter into the service of the king of Sweden, and had wrote that
+letter, inserted in the eighteenth chapter, in order to engage that young
+warrior to return, some little time before his meeting with Louisa.</p>
+<p>Nothing now was wanting to the contentment of this tender father but
+the presence of Horatio, which he was every day expecting, when, instead
+of himself, those letters from him arrived which contained his resolution
+of remaining with Charles XII. till the conquests he was in pursuit of
+should be accomplished.</p>
+<p>This was some matter of affliction to Dorilaus, tho' in his heart he
+could not but approve those principles of honour which detained
+him.—Neither the baron de Palfoy, nor Charlotta herself, could say he
+could well have acted otherwise, and used their utmost endeavours to
+comfort a father in his anxieties for the safety of so valuable a son.</p>
+<p>Louisa was also very much troubled at being disappointed in her hope of
+embracing a brother, whom she had ever dearly loved, and was now more
+precious to her than ever, by the proofs she had heard he had given of his
+courage and his virtue; but she had another secret and more poignant grief
+that preyed upon her soul, and could scarce receive any addition from
+ought beside:—she had been now near two months in Paris, yet could hear
+nothing of monsieur du Plessis, but that, by the death of his father, a
+large estate had devolved upon him, which he had never come to claim, or
+had been at Paris for about eighteen months, so that she had all the
+reason in the world to believe he was no more. This threw her into a
+melancholy, which was so much the more severe as she endeavoured to
+conceal it:—she made use of all her efforts to support the loss of a
+person she so much loved, and who proved himself so deserving of that
+love:—she represented to herself that being relieved from all the snares
+and miseries of an indigent life, raised from an obscurity which had given
+her many bitter pangs, to a station equal to her wishes, and under the
+care of the most indulgent and best of fathers, she ought not to repine,
+but bless the bounty of heaven, who had bestowed on her so many blessings,
+and with-held only one she could have asked.—These, I say, were the
+dictates of reason and religion; but the tender passion was not always to
+be silenced by them, and whenever she was alone, the tears, in spight of
+herself, would flow, and she, without even knowing she did so, cry out, Oh
+du Plessis, wherefore do I live since thou art dead!</p>
+<p>Among the many acquaintance she soon contracted at Paris, there was
+none she so much esteemed, both on the account of her own merit, and the
+regard she had for Horatio, as mademoiselle de Palfoy. In this young
+lady's society did she find more charms for her grief than in that of any
+other; and the other truly loving her, not only because she found nothing
+more worthy of being loved, but because she was the sister of Horatio,
+they were very seldom asunder.</p>
+<p>Louisa was one day at the baron's, enjoying that satisfaction which the
+conversation of his beautiful daughter never failed to afford, when word
+was brought that madam, the countess d'Espargnes, was come to visit
+her.—Mademoiselle Charlotta ran to receive her with a great deal of joy,
+she being a lady she very much regarded, and who she had not seen of a
+long time.</p>
+<p>She immediately returned, leading a lady in deep mourning, who seemed
+not to be above five-and-twenty, was extremely handsome, and had beside
+something in her air that attached Louisa at first sight. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta presented her to the countess, saying at the same time, see,
+madam, the only rival you have in my esteem.</p>
+<p>You do well to give me one, replied the countess, who looks as if she
+would make me love her as well as you, and so I should be even with you.
+With these words she opened her arms to embrace Louisa, who returned the
+compliment with equal politeness.</p>
+<p>When they were seated, mademoiselle Charlotta began to express the
+pleasure she had in seeing her in Paris; on which the countess told her,
+that the affair she came upon was so disagreeable, that nothing but the
+happiness of enjoying her company, while she stayed, could attone for it.
+You know, my dear, continued madam d'Espargnes, I was always an enemy to
+any thing that had the face of business, yet am I now, against my will,
+involved in it by as odd an adventure as perhaps you ever heard.</p>
+<p>Charlotta testifying some desire to be informed of what nature, the
+other immediately satisfied her curiosity in this manner:</p>
+<p>You know, said she, that on the late death of my father, his estate
+devolved on my brother, an officer in those troops in Italy commanded by
+the prince of Conti:—some wounds, which were looked upon as extremely
+dangerous, obliged him, when the campaign was over, to continue in his
+winter quarters;—on which he sent to monsieur the count to take
+possession in his name; this was done; but an intricate affair relating to
+certain sums lodged in a person's hand, and to be brought before the
+parliament of Paris, could not be decided without the presence either of
+him or myself who had been witness of the transaction.—I was extremely
+loth to take so long a journey, being then in very ill health; and hearing
+he was recovered, delayed it, as we then expected him in person:—I sent a
+special messenger, however, in order to hasten his return;—but instead of
+complying with my desires, I received a letter from him, acquainting me
+that a business of more moment to him than any thing in my power to guess
+at, required his presence in another place, and insisted, by all the
+tenderness which had ever been between us, that I would take on myself the
+management of this affair:—to enable me the better to do it, he sent me a
+deed of trust to act as I should find it most expedient.</p>
+<p>As he did not let me into the secret of what motives detained him at so
+critical a juncture, I was at first very much surprized; but on asking
+some questions of the messenger I had sent to him, I soon discovered what
+it was. He told me that on his arrival, he found my brother had left his
+quarters and was gone to Bolognia, on which he followed and overtook him
+there;—that he appeared in the utmost discontent, and was just preparing
+to proceed to Leghorn, but did not mention to him any more than he did in
+his letter to me, what inducement he had to this journey:—his servant,
+however, told him privately, that the mystery was this:—That being
+passionately in love with a young English lady, whom he had placed in a
+monastery at Bolognia, and expected to find there at his return, she had
+in his absence departed, without having acquainted him with her design;
+and that supposing she was gone for England, and unable to live without
+her, his intention was to take shipping for that country, and make use of
+his utmost efforts to find her out.</p>
+<p>I must confess, pursued the beautiful countess, this piece of quixotism
+very much veved me:—I thought his friends in France deserved more from
+him than to be neglected for one who fled from him, and who, as the man
+said, he knew not whether he should be able ever to see again. I resolved,
+however, to comply with his desires, and came immediately to Paris; but
+heaven has shewed him how little it approves his giving me this
+unnecessary trouble, for this morning I received a letter from him, that
+meeting with robbers in his way, they had taken from him all his money and
+bills of exchange, besides wounding him in several places, so that he
+cannot proceed on his journey till his hurts, which it seems are not
+dangerous, are cured, and he has fresh remittances from hence.</p>
+<p>With what emotions the heart of Louisa was agitated during the latter
+part of this little narrative, a sensible reader may easily conceive: from
+the first mention of Bolognia, where there was no other English pensioner
+than herself, she knew it must be no other than her dear du Plessis who
+was in search for her abroad, while she was vainly hoping to find him at
+home:—every circumstance rendered this belief more certain; and surprize
+and joy worked so strongly in her, that fearing the effects would be
+visible, she rose up and withdrew to a window. Mademoiselle Charlotta, who
+knew she could not be capable of such an act of unpoliteness, without
+being compelled to it, asked if she were not well:—on which Louisa
+entreated pardon, but owned a sudden faintness had come over her spirits,
+so that she was obliged to be rude in order to prevent being troublesome.</p>
+<p>As mademoiselle Charlotta knew nothing of her story, she had no farther
+thought about it than of some little qualm, which frequently happens when
+young ladies are too closely laced, and she seeming perfectly recovered
+from, the conversation was renewed on the same subject it had turned upon
+before this interruption; and the name of monsieur du Plessis being often
+mentioned, confirmed Louisa, if before she could have had the least
+remains of doubt, that it was her lover who, neglectful of his own
+affairs, and the remonstrances of his expecting friends, was about to
+range in search of one who, he imagined, was ungrateful both to his love
+and friendship.</p>
+<p>After having listened, with the utmost attention, to all the countess
+said of him, and other matters becoming the topic of discourse, she took
+her leave, in order to reflect alone what she ought to do in this affair.</p>
+<p>She debated not long within herself before she resolved to write to
+him, and prevent the unprofitable journey he was about to take; and having
+heard, by madam d'Espargnes, the name of the village where he was obliged
+to wait, both for the recovery of his wounds and for remittances for his
+expences, she wrote to him in the following terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To monsieur</i> DU PLESSIS.<br/>
+<br/>
+"I should ill return the proofs I have received<br/>
+of your generous disinterested friendship,<br/>
+to delay one moment that I had it in my power,<br/>
+in endeavouring to convince you that it was a<br/>
+quite contrary motive than ingratitude to you,<br/>
+that carried me from Bolognia:—but the story<br/>
+is too long for the compass of a letter; when<br/>
+you know it, you will, perhaps, own this action,<br/>
+whatever you may now think of it, merits<br/>
+more, than any thing I could have done, your<br/>
+approbation:—this seeming riddle will be easily<br/>
+expounded, if, on the recovery of your<br/>
+wounds, you repair immediately to Paris, where<br/>
+you will find<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your much obliged</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA."</p>
+<p>Having finished this little billet, a scruple rose in her head, that
+being now under the care of a father, she ought not to do any thing of
+this nature without his permission:—she had already told him how greatly
+she had been indebted to du Plessis for his honourable passion, but had
+not mentioned the least tittle of the tender impressions it had made on
+her; and she so lately knew him to be her father, that she was ashamed to
+make him the confidant of an affair of this nature, but then, when she
+considered the quality of du Plessis, which she was now confirmed of, and
+the sense Dorilaus testified he had of his behaviour to her while he
+believed her so infinitely his inferior, made her resolve to drain her
+modesty so far as to inform him all.</p>
+<p>She began by relating her accidental meeting with madam, the countess
+d'Espargnes and the conversation that passed at mademoiselle de Palfoy's,
+and then, tho' not without immoderate blushes, shewed him what she had
+wrote, and beseeched him to let her know whether it would be consistent
+with a virgin's modesty, and also agreeable to his pleasure, that she gave
+this demonstration of her gratitude for the favours she had received from
+this young gentleman.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus was charmed with this proof of her duty and respect, and told
+her, that he was so far from disapproving what she had wrote, that had she
+omitted it, or said less than she did, he should have looked upon her as
+unworthy of so perfect a passion as that which monsieur du Plessis on all
+occasions, testified for her:—that, in his opinion, she owed him more
+than she could ever pay; and that it should be his endeavour to shew he
+had not placed his affections on the daughter of one who knew not how to
+set a just value on merit such as his:—he made her also add a postscript
+to the letter, to give a direction in what part of Paris he might find her
+on his arrival; but Louisa would by no means give the least hint of the
+alteration in her circumstances, not that she wanted any farther proofs of
+his sincerity, but that she reserved the pleasure of so agreeable a
+surprize to their meeting. This letter was dispatched immediately, to the
+end he might receive it, at least, as soon as that from his sister with
+the expected remittances.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: his reception from Dorilaus
+and Louisa: the marriage of these lovers agreed upon</i>.</p>
+<p>The innocent pleasure Louisa felt in picturing to herself the extacy
+which du Plessis would be in at the receipt of her letter, was not a
+flattering idea:—to know she was in Paris, where, in all probability, she
+had come to seek him, and to have the intelligence of it from herself, had
+all the effect on him that the most raptured fancy can invent.</p>
+<p>His orders to madam d'Espargnes being punctually complied with, his
+bills of exchange also came soon after to hand; and the little hurts he
+had received from the robbers, as well as those of his mind, being
+perfectly healed, he set out with a lover's expedition, and arrived in
+Paris to the pleasing surprize of a sister who tenderly loved him, and
+expected not this satisfaction of a long time.</p>
+<p>He took but one night's repose before he enquired concerning Dorilaus,
+and was told that he was a person of quality in England; but, on some
+disgust he had received in his native country, was come to settle in
+France. As Louisa was extremely admired, they told him also that he had a
+very beautiful daughter, of whom he was extremely fond. This last
+information gave not a little ease to the mind of him who heard it, and
+dissipated those apprehensions which the high character they gave of
+Dorilaus had, in spite of himself, excited in him: he now imagined that as
+they were English, his Louisa might possibly have been acquainted with the
+daughter of this gentleman in their own country, and meeting her at Paris,
+might have put herself under her protection.</p>
+<p>Full of those impatiencies which are inseparable from a sincere
+passion, he borrowed his sister's chariot, and went to the Fauxbourg St.
+Germains; and being told one of the best houses in the place was that of
+Dorilaus, he asked for mademoiselle Louisa, on which he was desired to
+alight, and shewed into a handsome parlour while a servant went in to
+inform her: after this, he was ushered up stairs into a room, the
+furniture of which shewed the elegance of the owner's taste; but
+accustomed to every thing that was great and magnificent, the gilded
+scenes, the rich tapestry, the pictures, had no effect on him, till
+casting his eyes on one that hung over the chimney, he found the exact
+resemblance of the dear object never absent from his heart.—It was indeed
+the picture of Louisa, which her father, soon after her arrival, had
+caused to be drawn by one of the best painters at that time in Paris. This
+sight gave him a double pleasure, because it, in some measure, anticipated
+that of the original, and also convinced him that she was not indifferent
+to the person she was with.</p>
+<p>He was fixed in contemplation on this delightful copy, when the
+original appeared in all the advantages that jewels and rich dress could
+give her.—Tho' he loved her only for herself, and nothing could add to
+the sincere respect his heart had always paid her, yet to see her so
+different from what he expected, filled him with a surprize and a kind of
+enforced awe, which hindered him from giving that loose to his transports,
+which, after so long an absence, might have been very excusable;—and he
+could only say—my dear adorable Louisa, am I so blessed to see you once
+more!—She met his embrace half way, and replied, monsieur du Plessis,
+heaven has given me all I had to wish in restoring to me so faithful a
+friend;—but come, continued she, permit me to lead you to a father, who
+longs to embrace the protector of his daughter's innocence. Your father,
+madam! cried he; yes, answered she; in seeking a lover at Paris I found a
+father; Dorilaus is my father:—I have acquainted him with all the
+particulars of our story, and, I believe, the sincere affection I have for
+you will not be less pleasing for receiving his sanction to it.</p>
+<p>With these words she took his hand and led him, all astonishment, into
+an inner room where Dorilaus was sitting, who rose to meet him with the
+greatest politeness, and which shewed that to be master of, it was not
+necessary to be born in France; and on Louisa's acquainting him with the
+name of the person she presented, embraced him with the tenderness of a
+father, and made him such obliging and affectionate compliments, as
+confirmed to the transported du Plessis the character had been given of
+him.</p>
+<p>After the utmost testimonies of respect on both side, Dorilaus told his
+daughter she ought to make her excuses to monsieur for having eloped from
+the monastry where he had been so good to place her, which, said he, I
+think you can do in no better a manner than by telling the truth, and as I
+am already sufficiently acquainted with the whole, will leave you to
+relate it, while I dispatch a little business that at present calls me
+hence. He went out of the room in speaking this, and Louisa had a more
+full opportunity of informing her lover of all she had suffered since
+their parting, till this happy change in her fortune, than she could have
+had in the presence of her father, tho' no stranger to her most inmost
+thoughts on this occasion.</p>
+<p>The pleasing story of her pilgrimage rehearsed, how did the charmed du
+Plessis pity and applaud, by turns, her sufferings and fortitude!—How
+exclaim against the treachery of the abbess, and those of the nuns who
+were in confederacy with her! But his curiosity satisfied in this point,
+another rose instantly in his mind, that being the daughter of such a
+person as Dorilaus, wherefore she had made so great a secret of it, and
+what reason had occasioned her being on the terms she was with Melanthe.
+He no sooner expressed his wonder on these heads, than, having before her
+father's permission to do so, she resolved to leave him in no suspence on
+any score relating to her affairs.</p>
+<p>Tho', said she blushing, I cannot reveal the history of my birth
+without laying open the errors of those to whom I owe my being, yet I
+shall not think the sacrifice too great to recompence the obligations you
+have laid upon me; and then proceeded to acquaint him with every thing
+relating to her parents, as well as to herself, from the first moment she
+was found in the garden of Dorilaus.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but that he listened to the story with the
+utmost attention, in which he found such matters of admiration, that he
+could not forbear frequently interrupting her, by crying, Oh heaven! oh
+providence! how mysterious are thy ways!—How, in thy disposal of things,
+dost thou force us to acknowledge thy divine power and wisdom!</p>
+<p>He was also extremely pleased to find she was the sister of Horatio,
+whom he had often been in company with both at the baron de la Valeire's
+and at St. Germains, and had admired for the many extraordinary qualities
+he discovered in him: this led them into a conversation concerning that
+young gentleman, and the misfortunes which some late news-paper gave an
+account were beginning to fall upon the king of Sweden; after that,
+renewing the subject of their mutual affection, and du Plessis running
+over the particulars of their acquaintance in Italy, Louisa asked whether
+the count de Bellfleur had ever testified any remorse for the injury he
+would have offered her, and in what manner they had lived together in the
+army? To which monsieur du Plessis replied, that the authority of the
+prince had prevented him from attempting any open acts of violence; but
+that by his manner of behaviour it was easy to see he had not forgiven the
+disappointment; and he verily believed wanted only a convenient
+opportunity to revenge it: but, continued he, whatever his designs were,
+heaven put a stop to the execution of them; for, in the first skirmish
+that happened between us and the forces of prince Eugene, this once gay,
+gallant courtier, had his head taken off by a cannon ball.</p>
+<p>The gentle Louisa could not forbear expressing some concern for the
+sudden fate of this bad man, greatly as she had been affronted by him; but
+when she reflected that the same accident might have befallen her dear du
+Plessis, she was all dissolved in tears.</p>
+<p>They were in this tender communication when Dorilaus returned leading
+the countess d'Espargnes in one hand, and mademoiselle de Palfoy in the
+other. Monsieur du Plessis was surprized to meet his sister in a place
+where he knew not she was acquainted, and she no less to find him there.
+The occasion of it was this:</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, when he left the lovers together, went directly to the baron
+de Palfoy's, and related to him and to mademoiselle the whole history of
+monsieur du Plessis and Louisa; on which they contriv'd to make a pleasant
+scene, by engaging the countess d'Espargnes to go with them to Dorilaus's,
+without letting her know on what account.—The event answered their
+wishes; madam d'Espargnes rallied her brother on finding him alone with
+so beautiful a young lady; and mademoiselle Charlotta, for his inconstancy
+to his mistress at Bolognia: but when the riddle was solved, and the
+countess came to know that the lady left in the monastery and Louisa were
+the same, she no longer condemned an attachment which before had given her
+so much pain.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta chid her for the reserve she had maintained to
+her in this affair, especially, said she, as you were obliged to the
+conversation you had with madam d'Espargnes in my apartment, that you
+received any intelligence of monsieur du Plessis, or knew how to direct
+your commands to him to return.</p>
+<p>That, madam, is an obligation lies wholly on me, said monsieur du
+Plessis; and I believe I shall find it very difficult to requite it, any
+more than I shall to deserve my sister's pardon, for so industriously
+endeavouring to conceal from her the secret of my passion and its object.</p>
+<p>Louisa told the ladies that she now hoped they would excuse the
+disorder she had been in at the countess's discourse, since they knew the
+motive:—a good deal of pleasantry passed between this agreeable company;
+and as they were in the midst of it, the baron de Palfoy, who had been
+hindered from accompanying Dorilaus, when he conducted the ladies, now
+joined them; and tho' he was considerably older than any there, was no
+less entertaining and good-humoured than the youngest.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus had privately ordered a very magnificent collation, which
+being served up, Louisa did the honours of the table with so good a grace,
+that madam d'Espargnes was charmed with her, and took an opportunity of
+asking Dorilaus when she might hope the happiness of calling so amiable a
+lady by the name of sister. Du Plessis thanked her for the interest she
+took in his affairs; and the baron de Palfoy added, that as the lovers
+wanted no farther proofs how worthy they were of each other, he would join
+in solliciting for a completion of their happiness. To which Dorilaus
+replied, that he was too well satisfied with his daughter's conduct, not
+to leave her entirely at her own disposal; and as to what related to
+fortune and settlement, he should be ready to enter into such articles as,
+he believed, monsieur du Plessis would have no reason to complain of.</p>
+<p>The passionate lover at these words cried out, that it was Louisa's
+self alone he was ambitious of possessing; nor had either that lady or her
+father any room to look on what he said as a mere compliment, because his
+love had long since waved all the seeming disproportion between them.</p>
+<p>In fine, not only at this time, but every day, almost every hour, was
+Louisa, as it now depended wholly on herself, importuned by her lover and
+the countess d'Espargnes to render his happiness complete; but she still
+delayed it, desiring to hear some news of Horatio, the baron de Palfoy
+having settled every thing with Dorilaus concerning his marriage with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, she was willing, she said, that as they were born
+on the same day, their nuptials should be also celebrated at the same
+time.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was obliged to content himself with this since he
+could obtain no more; and for a time every thing passed smoothly and
+agreeably on; but news after news continually arriving of the king of
+Sweden's ill success in Ukrania, rendered all the noble friends of Horatio
+extremely dissatisfied:—the public accounts were too deficient for their
+information of any particular officer, and as there were very few French
+in the Swedish army, they could hope for no intelligence of him but from
+himself; which, as he omitted giving, they at last concluded he was either
+killed or taken prisoner; which last misfortune they looked upon as equal
+with the former:—the Russian barbarity, and their manner of treating
+those whom the chance of war threw into their hands, was no secret thro'
+all Europe; and whichever of these accidents had happened, must be very
+grievous to a gentleman of Dorilaus's disposition, who, when unknowing he
+was his son, loved him with more tenderness than many fathers do their
+offspring, but now convinced not only that he was so, but also that he was
+possessed of such amiable qualities as might do honour to the most
+illustrious race, had fixed an idea in his mind of such a lasting
+happiness in having him near him, that the thoughts of being deprived of
+him for ever threw him into a melancholy, which not all the friends he had
+acquired in Paris, not all the gaieties of that place, nor the sweet
+society of the engaging and dutiful Louisa, had the power to console. So
+deep was his affliction, that monsieur du Plessis, amorous and impatient
+as he was, had not courage to urge a grant of his own happiness, while
+those who were to bestow it, were incapable of sharing any part of it.</p>
+<p>Soon after there arrived a thunder-clap indeed:—certain intelligence
+that the once victorious Charles was totally overthrown, his whole army
+either cut to pieces or taken prisoners, and himself a fugitive in the
+grand seignior's dominions.—Dorilaus, now not doubting but the worst he
+feared had come to pass, shut himself from all company, and refused the
+unavailing comfort of those who came to offer it.—The fair eyes of Louisa
+were continually drowned in tears, and the generous du Plessis sympathized
+in all her griefs. But what became of mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy!
+her tender soul, so long accustomed to love Horatio, had not courage to
+support the shock of losing him;—losing him at a time when she thought
+herself secure of being united to him for ever;—when his discovered birth
+had rendered her father's wishes conformable to her own, and there wanted
+nothing but his presence to render both their families completely
+blessed:—all that excess of love which modesty had hitherto restrained
+her from giving any public marks of, now shewed itself in the violence of
+her grief and her despair.—She made no secret of her softest
+inclinations, and gave a loose to all the impatience of a ruined love.
+Even the haughty baron was melted into tears of compassion, and so far
+from condemning, that, he attempted all in his power to alleviate her
+sorrows.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXVI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The Catastrophe of the whole</i>.</p>
+<p>Poor Horatio, released, as I have already said, from his worse than
+Turkish bondage, had now, with the companions of his misfortunes, left a
+country where they had suffered so much and had so little to hope, that
+their enlargement seemed even to themselves a miracle.—As they parted,
+miserable and forlorn, thro' those provinces where, about a year before,
+they had marched with so much pomp and force, as, together with the king
+of Sweden's name, inspired admiration and terror over all those parts of
+the world, it filled them with the most poignant anguish, and drew tears
+from those among them least sensible of any tender emotions.</p>
+<p>All this disconsolate company, except Horatio, being Swedes', they made
+the best of their way, some to Stockholm, and others to Straelsund.—Now
+left alone, a long journey before him, and altogether uncertain what
+reception he should find at Paris, either from Dorilaus or mademoiselle
+Charlotta, his condition was extremely pityable, and he stood in need of
+more fortitude than could be expected from his years, to enable him to go
+thro' it.</p>
+<p>The nearer he approached Paris, the greater was his shock at the
+necessity of appearing there in the despicable figure he now made; but his
+courage still got the better, and surmounted all difficulties. If Dorilaus
+thinks my disobedience to his commands a crime too great to merit his
+forgiveness, would he say to himself, or Charlotta disdains, in his
+misfortunes, the faithful Horatio, I have no more to do than to return to
+Poland and seek an honourable death in the service of Stanislaus.</p>
+<p>He made his entrance into that opulent city through the most bye-ways
+he could, and concealed himself till towards night in a little cabaret,
+where having soon been informed where Dorilaus lived, he went when it was
+quite dark to his house, though how divided between hope and fear it is
+easy to imagine. He knocked at the gate, which being opened by the porter,
+and he desiring to speak with his master, was answered with many
+impertinent questions, as—who he came from, what his business was, and
+such like interrogatories which the sawciness of servants generally put to
+persons such as this fellow took Horatio to be by his appearance. But he
+had no sooner desired he would tell Dorilaus that he came from Russia, and
+brought intelligence of Horatio, than his tone of voice and behaviour was
+quite changed.—Our traveller was now carried into a parlour and entreated
+to sit down, and the late surly porter called hastily for one of the
+servants, bidding him, with the utmost joy, run in and inform his master
+that here was a person come from Russia that could give him news of
+colonel Horatio.</p>
+<p>This a little raised the lately depressed spirits of Horatio, as it
+assured him his name was not unknown in that family, nor had been
+mentioned with indifference.</p>
+<p>He attended but a very little time before he was shewed up into
+Dorilaus's apartment, who was just opening his mouth to enquire if Horatio
+were yet living, and in what condition, when he saw it was himself.
+Surprize and joy rendered him incapable either of speaking to him, or
+hearing the apologies he was beginning to make for having disobeyed his
+commands:—but he fell upon his neck and gave him an embrace, which
+dissipated all Horatio's fears, and left him no room to doubt if his peace
+was made.</p>
+<p>No words were exchanged between them for a considerable time, but—oh
+my dear son, my ever loved Horatio, on the one side, my more than father,
+patron, on the other:—at length the tumultuous rapture of so unexpected a
+meeting and reception, giving way to a more peaceful calm,—Dorilaus made
+Horatio relate all the particulars had happened to him; and when he had
+ended, now, said he, I will reward the sincerity I easily perceive you
+have made use of in this narrative, by acquainting you, in my turn, with
+secrets you are far from having any notion of, and which, I believe, will
+compensate for all your sufferings, and make you own, that while you
+seemed to groan under the utmost severities of fortune, she was preparing
+for you all the blessings in her power to give, and even more than your
+ambition aimed at. But I have first a message to dispatch, continued he;
+at my return you shall know all.</p>
+<p>With these words he went out of the room, but came back in a moment,
+and, after renewing his embraces to Horatio, revealed to him the whole
+secret of his birth, with all had happened to Louisa till the time of
+their happy meeting in Paris.</p>
+<p>With what pleasing wonder the soul of Horatio was filled at this
+discovery, is much more easy to conceive than describe, so I shall leave
+it to the reader's imagination to guess what it was he felt and spoke on
+so extraordinary an occasion. While he was pouring out the transports it
+occasioned in the most grateful thanks to heaven, and his new found
+father, Louisa entered, Dorilaus having sent to the baron de Palfoy's,
+where he knew she was, to let her know a messenger from Russia was arrived
+with news of her brother:—they instantly knew each other, though it was
+upwards of four years since they were separated, and in that time the
+stature of both considerably increased:—nothing could exceed the joy of
+these amiable twins:—never was felicity more perfect, which yet received
+addition on Horatio's part, when Louisa told him, that it was as much as
+Charlotta could do to restrain herself from coming with her to hear what
+account the supposed messenger had brought.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus on this immediately sent to let her know his son was well, and
+expected in Paris the next day, for he would not suffer him to appear
+before her, or the baron, till a habit was made for him more agreeable to
+his condition than that he arrived in. It is certain that the impatience
+of a lover would have made Horatio gladly wave this ceremony, but he would
+not a second time dispute the commands of such a father.</p>
+<p>But wherefore should I delay the attention of my reader, who, I doubt
+not, but easily perceives by this time how things will end: so I shall
+only say that the meeting of Horatio and Charlotta was such, as might be
+expected from so arduous and constant an affection: that every thing
+having been settled between the two fathers at the time they sent their
+joint mandates to call him home, there now remained nothing but to
+celebrate the long desired nuptials, which was deferred no longer than was
+requisite for preparations to render the ceremony magnificent.</p>
+<p>The generous du Plessis and his beloved Louisa were also united the
+same day; and it would be hard to say which of these weddings afforded
+most satisfaction to the friends on both sides, or were attended with the
+most happy consequences to the persons concerned in them.</p>
+<p>By these examples we may learn, that to sustain with fortitude and
+patience whatever ills we are preordained to suffer, entitles us to
+relief, while by impatient struggling we should but augment the score, and
+provoke fate to shew us the vanity of all attempts to frustrate its
+decrees.</p>
+<p><i>FINIS</i>.</p>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
+
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+
+
+
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #10804 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10804)
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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***
+[Transcriber's note: The spelling inconsistencies of the original have
+been retained in this etext.]
+
+
+
+THE
+
+_FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS_:
+
+BEING THE
+
+GENUINE HISTORY
+
+OF
+
+_Colonel_ M----RS, _and his Sister,_
+_Madam_ DU P----Y, _the Issue of
+the Hon_. CH----ES M----RS, _Son of the
+late Duke of_ R---- L----D.
+
+CONTAINING
+
+Many wonderful ACCIDENTS that befel them in their TRAVELS, and
+interspersed with the CHARACTERS and ADVENTURES of SEVERAL PERSONS of
+_Condition_, in the most polite Courts of _Europe_.
+
+_The Whole calculated for the Entertainment and Improvement of the Youth
+of both Sexes_.
+
+
+_LONDON_:
+
+M,DCC,XLIV.
+
+
+
+THE
+
+PREFACE.
+
+_The many Fictions which have been lately imposed upon the World, under
+the specious Titles of_ Secret Histories, Memoirs, &c. &c. _have given
+but too much room to question the Veracity of every Thing that has the
+least Tendency that way: We therefore think it highly necessary to
+assure the Reader, that he will find nothing in the following Sheets,
+but what has been collected from_ Original Letters, Private Memorandums,
+_and the_ Accounts _we have been favoured with from the Mouths of
+Persons too deeply concerned in many of the_ chief Transactions _not to
+be perfectly acquainted with the Truth, and of too much Honour and
+Integrity to put any false Colours upon it_.
+
+_The Adventures are not so long passed as to be wholly forgotten by
+many_ Living Witnesses, _nor yet so recent as to give any Reason to
+suspect us of Flattery in the Relation given of them, the Motive of
+their Publication being only to_ encourage Virtue _in both Sexes, by
+showing the Amiableness of it in_ real Characters. _And if it be true
+(as certainly it is) that_ Example has more Efficacy than_ Precept, _we
+may be bold to say there are few fairer, or more worthy Imitation.--The
+Sons and Daughters of the greatest Families may give additional Lustre
+to their Nobility, by forming themselves by the Model here presented to
+them; and those of lower Extraction, attain Qualities to attone for what
+they want in Birth:--So that we flatter ourselves this Undertaking will
+not fail of receiving the Approbation of all who wish well to a
+Reformation of Manners, and more especially those who have Youth under
+their Care.--As for such who may take it up merely as an Amusement, it
+is possible they will find something, which, by interesting their
+Affections, may make them better without designing to be so.--Either way
+will fully recompense the Pains taken in the compiling by_
+
+_The_ EDITORS.
+
+THE CONTENTS.
+
+CHAP. I.
+
+_Contains the Manner in which a Gentleman found two Children: His
+Benevolence towards them, and what kind of Affection he bore to them as
+they grew up; with the Departure of one of them to the Army_.
+
+CHAP. II.
+
+_Relates the Offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the Manner of her
+receiving them_.
+
+CHAP. III.
+
+_Dorilaus continues his Importunities, with some unexpected Consequences
+that attended them_.
+
+CHAP. IV.
+
+_Louisa becomes acquainted with a Lady of Quality, Part of whose
+Adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her_.
+
+CHAP. V.
+
+_Horatio's Reception by the Officers of the Army: His Behaviour in the
+Battle: His being taken Prisoner by the French: His Treatment among
+them, and many other Particulars_.
+
+CHAP. VI.
+
+_Describes the Masquerade at the Dutchess of Maine's: The Characters and
+Intrigues of several Persons of Quality who were there: The odd
+Behaviour of a Lady in regard to Horatio; and Charlotta's
+Sentiments upon it_.
+
+CHAP. VII.
+
+_An Explanation of the foregoing Adventure, with a Continuation of the
+Intrigues of some French Ladies, and the Policy of Mademoiselle Coigney
+in regard of her Brother_.
+
+CHAP. VIII.
+
+_The parting of Horatio and Mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains_.
+
+CHAP. IX.
+
+_A second Separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+Occurrences_.
+
+CHAP X.
+
+_The Reasons that induced Horatio to leave France: with the Chevalier
+St. George's Behaviour on knowing his Resolution. He receives an
+unexpected Favour from the Baron de Palfoy_.
+
+CHAP XI.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds Means to see Mademoiselle Charlotta,
+and afterwards pursues his Journey to Poland_.
+
+CHAP. XII.
+
+_Continuation of the Adventures of Louisa: Her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some Accidents that there
+befel them_.
+
+CHAP. XIII.
+
+_Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+Behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable Passion for her:
+Her Sentiments and Way of acting on this Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XIV.
+
+_The base Designs of the Count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy Change
+in Louisa's Way of Life: The generous Behaviour of Monsieur du Plessis
+on that Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XV.
+
+_Louisa is in Danger of being ravished by the Count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by Monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+Particulars_.
+
+CHAP. XVI
+
+_The Innkeeper's Scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: Her
+Behaviour on the Discovery of the Count's Falshood. Louisa changes her
+Resolution, and goes to Bolognia._
+
+CHAP. XVII.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Warsaw; sees the Coronation of Stanislaus and his
+Queen: His Reception from the King of Sweden: His Promotion: Follows
+that Prince in all his Conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The
+Story of Count Patkull and Madame de Eusilden._
+
+CHAP. XVIII
+
+_King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the Troubles In Poland:
+Charles XII. gives Laws to the Empire: A Courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives Letters, which give him great Surprize._
+
+CHAP. XIX.
+
+_The King of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with an
+Instance of Russian Brutality, drives the Czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken Prisoner
+by the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where he suffers the
+extremest Miseries._
+
+CHAP. XX.
+
+_The Treachery of a Russian Lady to her Friend: Her Passion for Horatio:
+The Method he took to avoid making any Return, and some other
+entertaining Occurrences._
+
+CHAP. XXI.
+
+_The Prisoners Expectations raised: A terrible Disappointment: Some of
+the chief carried to Prince Menzikoff's Palace: Their Usage there:
+Horatio set at Liberty, and the Occasion_.
+
+CHAP. XXII.
+
+_What befel Louisa in the Monastery: The Stratagem she put in Practice
+to get out of it: Her Travels cross Italy, and Arrival at Paris_.
+
+CHAP. XXIII.
+
+_Shews by what Means Louisa came to the Knowledge of her Parents, with
+other Occurrences_.
+
+CHAP. XXIV.
+
+_The History of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other Circumstances very
+important to Louisa_.
+
+CHAP. XXV.
+
+_Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: His Reception from Dorilaus and
+Louisa: The Marriage agreed upon_.
+
+CHAP. XXVI.
+
+_The Catastrophe of the Whole_.
+
+
+
+THE FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS.
+
+
+
+CHAP. I.
+
+_Contains the manner in which a gentleman found children: his
+benevolence towards them, and what kind of affection he bore to them as
+they grew up. With the departure of one of them to the army_.
+
+It was in the ever memorable year 1688, that a gentleman, whose real
+name we think proper to conceal under that of Dorilaus, returned from
+visiting most of the polite courts of Europe, in which he had passed
+some time divided between pleasure and improvement. The important
+question if the throne were vacated or not, by the sudden departure of
+the unfortunate king James, was then upon the tapis; on which, to avoid
+interesting himself on either side, he forbore coming to London, and
+crossed the country to a fine feat he had about some forty miles
+distant, where he resolved to stay as privately as he could, till the
+great decision should be made, and the public affairs settled in such a
+manner as not to lay him under a necessity of declaring his sentiments
+upon them.
+
+He was young and gay, loved magnificence and the pomp of courts, and was
+far from being insensible of those joys which the conversation of the
+fair sex affords; but had never so much enslaved his reason to any one
+pleasure, as not to be able to refrain it. Hunting and reading were very
+favourite amusements with him, so that the solitude he now was in was
+not at all disagreeable or tedious to him, tho' he continued in it
+some months.
+
+A little time before his departure an accident happened, which gave him
+an opportunity of exercising the benevolence of his disposition; and,
+tho' it then seemed trivial to him, proved of the utmost consequence to
+his future life, as well as furnished matter for the following pages.
+
+As he was walking pretty early one morning in his garden, very intent on
+a book he had in his hand, his meditations were interrupted by an
+unusual cry, which seemed at some distance; but as he approached a
+little arbour, where he was sometimes accustomed to sit, he heard more
+plain and distinct, and on his entrance was soon convinced whence it
+proceeded.
+
+Just at the foot of a large tree, the extensive boughs of which greatly
+contributed to form the arbour, was placed a basket closely covered on
+the one side, and partly open on the other to let in the air. Tho' the
+sounds which still continued to issue from it left Dorilaus no room to
+doubt what it contained; he stooped down to look, and saw two beautiful
+babes neatly dressed in swadling cloaths: between them and the pillow
+they were laid upon was pinned a paper, which he hastily taking off,
+found in it these words.
+
+
+_To the generous_ DORISLAUS:
+
+'Irresistible destiny abandons these helpless infants
+to your care.--They are twins, begot
+by the same father, and born of the same mother,
+and of a blood not unworthy the protection
+they stand in need of; which if you vouchsafe to
+afford, they will have no cause to regret the misfortune
+of their birth, or accuse the authors of
+their being.--Why they seek it of you in particular,
+you may possibly be hereafter made sensible.--In
+the mean time content yourself with
+knowing they are already baptized by the names
+of Horatio and Louisa.'
+
+
+The astonishment he was in at so unexpected a present being made him,
+may more easily be imagined than expressed; but he had then no time to
+form any conjectures by whom or by what means it was left there: the
+children wanted immediate succour, and he hesitated not a moment whether
+it would become him to bestow it: he took the basket up himself, and
+running as fast as he could with it into the house, called his
+maid-servants about him, and commanded them to give these little
+strangers what assistance was in their power, while a man was sent among
+the tenants in search of nurses proper to attend them. To what person
+soever, said he, I am indebted for this confidence, it must not be
+abused.--Besides, whatever stands in need of protection, merits
+protection from those who have the power to give it.
+
+This was his way of thinking, and in pursuance of these generous
+sentiments he always acted. The report of what happened in his house
+being soon spread thro' the country, there were not wanting several who
+came to offer their service to the children, out of which he selected
+two of whom he heard the best character, and were most likely to be
+faithful to the trust reposed in them, giving as great a charge, and as
+handsome an allowance with them, as could have been expected from a
+father. Indeed he doubtless had passed for being so in the opinion of
+every body, had he arrived sooner in the kingdom; but the shortness of
+the time not permitting any such suggestion, he was looked upon as a
+prodigy of charity and goodness.
+
+Having in this handsome manner disposed of his new guests, he began to
+examine all his servants, thinking it impossible they should be brought
+there without the privity of some one of them; but all his endeavours
+could get him no satisfaction in this point. He read the letter over and
+over, yet still his curiosity was as far to seek as ever.--The hand he
+was entirely unacquainted with, but thought there was something in the
+style that showed it wrote by no mean person: the hint contained in it,
+that there was some latent reason for addressing him in particular on
+this account, was very puzzling to him: he could not conceive why he,
+any more than any other gentleman of the county, should have an interest
+in the welfare of these children: he had no near relations, and those
+distant ones who claimed an almost forgotten kindred were not in a
+condition to abandon their progeny.--The thing appeared strange to him;
+but all his endeavours to give him any farther light into it being
+unsuccessful; he began to imagine the parents of the children had been
+compelled by necessity to expose them, and had had only wrote in this
+mysterious manner to engage a better reception: he also accounted in his
+mind for their being left with him, as, he being a batchelor, and having
+a large estate, it might naturally be supposed there would be fewer
+impediments to their being taken care of, than either where a wife was
+in the case, or a narrow fortune obliged the owner to preserve a greater
+oeconomy in expences.
+
+Being at last convinced within himself that he had now explained this
+seeming riddle, he took no farther trouble about whose, or what these
+children were, but resolved to take care of them during their infancy,
+and afterwards to put them into such a way as he should find their
+genius's rendered them most fit for, in order to provide for themselves.
+
+On his leaving the county, he ordered his housekeeper to furnish every
+thing needful for them as often as they wanted it, and to take care they
+were well used by the women with whom he had placed them; and delivered
+these commands not in a cursory or negligent manner, but in such terms
+as terrified any failure of obedience in this point would highly incur
+his displeasure.
+
+Nothing material happening during their infancy, I shall pass over those
+years in silence, only saying that as often as Dorilaus went down to his
+estate (which was generally two or three times a year) he always sent
+for them, and expressed a very great satisfaction in finding in their
+looks the charge he had given concerning them so well executed: but when
+they arrived at an age capable of entertaining him with their innocent
+prattle, what before was charity, improved into affection; and he began
+to regard them with a tenderness little inferior to paternal; but which
+still increased with their increase of years.
+
+Having given them the first rudiments of education in the best schools
+those parts afforded, he placed Louisa with a gentlewoman, who
+deservedly had the reputation of being an excellent governess of youth,
+and brought Horatio in his own chariot up to London, where he put him to
+Westminster School, under the care of doctor Busby, and agreed for his
+board in a family that lived near it, and had several other young
+gentlemen on the same terms.
+
+What more could have been expected from the best of fathers! what more
+could children, born to the highest fortunes, have enjoyed! nor was
+their happiness like to be fleeting: Dorilaus was a man steady in his
+resolutions, had always declared an aversion to marriage, and by
+rejecting every overture made him on that score, had made his friends
+cease any farther importunities; he had besides (as has already been
+observed) no near relations, so that it was the opinion of most people
+that he would make the young Horatio heir to the greatest part of his
+estate, and give Louisa a portion answerable to her way of bringing up.
+What he intended for them, however, is uncertain, he never having
+declared his sentiments so far concerning them; and the strange
+revolutions happening afterwards in both their fortunes, preventing him
+from acting as it is possible he might design.
+
+The education he allowed them indeed gave very good grounds for the
+above-mentioned conjecture.--Louisa being taught all the accomplishments
+that became a maid of quality to be mistress of; and Horatio having gone
+thro' all the learning of the school, was taken home to his own
+house, from whence he was to go to Oxford, in order to finish his
+studies in the character of a gentleman-commoner.
+
+But when every thing was preparing for this purpose, he came one morning
+into the chamber of his patron, and throwing himself on his knees--
+Think me not, sir, said he, too presuming in the request I am about to
+make you.--I know all that I am is yours.--That I am the creature of
+your bounty, and that, without being a father, you have done more for me
+than many of those, who are so, do for their most favourite sons.--I
+know also that you are the best judge of what is fit for me, and have
+not the least apprehensions that you will not always continue the same
+goodness to me, provided I continue, as I have hitherto done, the
+ambition of meriting it.--Yet, sir, pardon me if I now discover a desire
+with which I long have laboured, of doing something of myself which may
+repair the obscurity of my birth, and prove to the world that heaven has
+endued this foundling with a courage and resolution capable of
+undertaking the greatest actions.
+
+In speaking these last words a fire seemed to sparkle from his eyes,
+which sufficiently denoted the vehemence of his inward agitations.
+Dorilaus was extremely surprized, but after a little pause, what is it
+you request of me? said that noble gentleman, (at the same time raising
+him from the posture he was in) or by what means than such as I have
+already taken, can I oblige you to think that, in being my foundling,
+fortune dealt not too severely with you?
+
+Ah! sir, mistake me not, I beseech you, replied the young Horatio, or
+think me wanting in my gratitude either to heaven or you.--But, sir, it
+is to your generous care in cultivating the talents I received from
+nature, that I owe this emulation, this ardor for doing something that
+might give me a name, which is the only thing your bounty cannot
+bestow.--My genius inclines me to the army.--Of all the accomplishments
+you have caused me to be instructed in, geography, fortification, and
+fencing, have been my darling studies.--Of what use, sir, will they be
+to me in an idle life? permit me then the opportunity of showing the
+expense you have been at has not been thrown away.--I know they will say
+I am too young to bear a commission, but if I had the means of going a
+volunteer, I cannot help thinking but I should soon give proofs the
+extreme desire I have to serve my country that way would well attone for
+my want of years.
+
+The more he spoke, the more the astonishment of his patron increased: he
+admired the greatness of his spirit, but was troubled it led him to a
+desire of running into so dangerous a way of life.--He represented to
+him all the hardships of a soldier, the little regard that was sometimes
+paid to merit, and gave him several instances of gentlemen who had
+passed their youth in the service, and behaved with extreme bravery, yet
+had no other reward than their fears, and a consciousness of having done
+more than was their duty: in war, said he, the superior officers carry
+away all the glory as well as profits of the victory; whereas in civil
+employments it is quite otherwise: in physic, in law, in divinity, or in
+the state, your merits will be immediately conspicuous to those who have
+the power to reward you; and if you are desirous of acquiring a name, by
+which I suppose you mean to become the head of a family, any of these
+afford you a much greater prospect of success, and it lies much more in
+my power of assisting your promotion.
+
+To these he added many other arguments, but they were not of the least
+weight with the impatient Horatio. He was obstinate in his entreaties,
+which he even with tears enforced, and Dorilaus, considering so strong a
+propensity as something supernatural, at last consented.--Never was joy
+more sincere and fervent than what this grant occasioned, and he told
+his benefactor that he doubted not but that hereafter he should hear
+such an account of his behaviour, as would make him not repent his
+having complied with his request.
+
+The preparations for his going to Oxford were now converted into others
+of a different nature.--Several of our troops were already sent to
+Flanders, and others about to embark, in order to open the campaign; so
+that there was but a small space between the time of Horatio's asking
+leave to go, and that of his departure, which Dorilaus resolved should
+be in a manner befitting a youth whom he had bred up as his own. He
+provided him a handsome field-equipage, rich cloaths, horses, and a
+servant to attend him; and while these things were getting ready, had
+masters to perfect him in riding; and those other exercises proper for
+the vocation he was now entering into, all which he performed with so
+good a grace, that not only Dorilaus himself, who might be suspected to
+look on him with partial eyes, but all who saw him were
+perfectly charmed.
+
+He was more than ordinarily tall for his years, admirably well
+proportioned, and had something of a grave fierceness in his air and
+deportment, that tho' he was not yet sixteen, he might very well have
+passed for twenty: he was also extremely fair, had regular features, and
+eyes the most penetrating, mixed with a certain sweetness; so that it
+was difficult to say whether he seemed most formed for love or war.
+
+Dorilaus thinking it highly proper he should take his leave of Louisa,
+sent for her from the boarding-school, that she might pass the short
+time he had to stay with her brother at his house, not without some
+hopes that the great tenderness there was between them might put Horatio
+out of his resolution of going to the army, who being grown now
+extremely dear to him, he could not think of parting with, tho' he had
+yielded to it, without a great deal of reluctance.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that when she first heard the motive which had
+occasioned her being sent for, her gentle breast was filled with the
+most terrible alarms for her dear brother's danger; but the little
+regard he seemed to have of it, and the high ideas he had of future
+greatness, soon brought her to think as he did; and instead of
+dissuading him from prosecuting his design, she rather encouraged him in
+it: and in this gave the first testimony of a greatness of soul, no less
+to be admired than the courage and laudable ambition which actuated that
+of her brother.
+
+Dorilaus beheld with an infinity of satisfaction the success of his
+endeavours, in favour of these amiable twins, and said within himself,
+how great a pity would it have been, if capacities such as theirs had
+been denied the means of improvement!
+
+After the departure of Horatio, he kept Louisa some time with him, under
+pretence of showing her the town, which before she had never seen; but
+in reality to alleviate that melancholy which parting from her brother
+had caused in him. He could not have taken a more effectual way; for
+there was such an engaging and sweet cheerfulness in her conversation,
+added to many personal perfections, that it was scarce possible to think
+of any thing else while she was present. She had also an excellent
+voice, and played well on the bass viol and harpsicord, so that it is
+hard to say whether he found most satisfaction in hearing her or
+discoursing with her.
+
+But how dangerous is it to depend on one's own strength, against the
+force of such united charms! Dorilaus, who, in the midst of a thousand
+temptations, had maintained the entire liberty of his heart, and tho'
+never insensible of beauty, had never been enslaved by it, was now by
+charms he least suspected, and at an age when he believed himself proof
+against all the attacks of love, subdued without knowing that he was
+so.--The tender passion stole into his soul by imperceptible degrees,
+and under the shape of friendship and paternal affection, met with no
+opposition from his reason, till it became too violent to be restrained;
+then showed itself in the whole power of restless wishes, fears, hopes,
+and impatiences, which he had often heard others complain of, but not
+till now experienced in himself: all that he before had felt of love was
+languid, at best aimed only at enjoyment, and in the gratification of
+that desire was extinguished; but the passion he was possessed of for
+Louisa was of a different nature, and accompanied with a respect which
+would not suffer him to entertain a thought in prejudice of her
+innocence.
+
+Many reasons, besides his natural aversion to marriage, concurred to
+hinder him from making her his wife; and as there were yet more to deter
+him from being the instrument of her dishonour, the situation of his
+mind was very perplexing.--He blushed within himself at the inclinations
+he had for a girl whom he had always behaved to as a child of his own,
+and who looked upon him as a father: not only the disparity of their
+years made him consider the passion he was possessed of as ridiculous,
+there was one circumstance, which, if at any time a thought of marrying
+her entered into his head, immediately extirpated it, which was, that
+there was a possibility of her being born not only of the meanest, but
+the vilest parents, who, on hearing her establishment, might appear and
+claim the right they had in her; and lo, said he, I shall ally myself
+to, perhaps, a numerous family of vagabonds; at least, whether it be so
+or not, the manner in which these children were exposed, being publicly
+known, may furnish a pretence for any wretch to boast a kindred.
+
+He was therefore determined to suppress a passion, which, as he had too
+much honour to seek the gratification of by one way, his prudence and
+character in the world would not allow him to think of by the other: and
+as absence seemed to him the best remedy, he sent her down into the
+country again with a precipitation, which made her (wholly ignorant of
+the real motive) fear she had done something to offend him. At parting,
+she entreated him to let her know if he had been dissatisfied with any
+thing in her behaviour.--Wherefore do you ask? said he, with some
+emotion, which the poor innocent still mistook for displeasure; because,
+answered she, dropping some tears at the same time, that you banish me
+from your presence. Why would you be glad to continue with me always?
+again demanded he. Yes indeed, said she; and if you loved me as well as
+you do my brother, you would never part with me; for I saw with what
+regret you let him go.
+
+This tender simplicity added such fewel to the fire with which Dorilaus
+was enflamed, that it almost consumed his resolution: he walked about
+the room some time without being able to speak, much less to quiet the
+agitation he was in. At last, Louisa, said he, I was only concerned your
+brother made choice of an avocation so full of dangers;--but I never
+intended to keep him at home with me:--he should have gone to Oxford to
+finish his studies; and the reason I send you again to the
+boarding-school is that you may perfect yourself in such things as you
+may not yet be mistress of:--as for any apprehensions of my being
+offended with you, I would have you banish them entirely, for I assure
+you, I can find nothing in you but what both merits and receives my
+approbation.
+
+She seemed extremely comforted with these words; and the coach being at
+the door, went into it with her accustomed chearfulness, leaving him in
+a state which none but those who have experienced the severe struggles
+between a violent inclination and a firm resolution to oppose it, can
+possibly conceive.
+
+
+
+CHAP. II.
+
+_Relates the offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the manner of her
+receiving them_.
+
+Louisa was no sooner gone, than he wished her with him again, and was a
+thousand times about to send and have her brought back; but was as often
+prevented by the apprehensions of her discovering the motive.--He was
+now convinced that love does not always stand in need of being indulged
+to enforce its votaries to be guilty of extravagancies.
+
+--He had banished the object of his affections from his presence; he had
+painted all the inconveniences of pursuing his desires in the worst
+colours they would bear; yet all was insufficient!--Louisa was absent in
+reality, but her image was ever present to him.--Whatever company he
+engaged himself in, whatever amusement he endeavoured to entertain
+himself with, he could think only of her.
+
+--The Town without her seemed a desart, and every thing in it rather
+seemed irksome than agreeable; for several months did he endure this
+cruel conflict; but love and nature at last got the victory, and all
+those considerations which had occasioned the opposition subsided: he
+found it impossible to recover any tranquility of mind while he
+continued in this dilemma, and therefore yielded to the strongest side.
+All the arguments he had used with himself in the beginning of his
+passion seemed now weak and trifling: the difference of age, which he
+had thought so formidable an objection, appeared none in the light with
+which he at present considered it: he was now but in his fortieth year,
+and the temperance he had always observed had hindered any decay either
+in his looks or constitution.--What censures the world might pass on
+his marrying one of her age and obscure birth, he thought were of little
+weight when balanced with his internal peace.--Thus was he enabled to
+answer to himself all that could be offered against making her his wife;
+and having thus settled every thing, as he imagined, to the satisfaction
+of his passion, became no less resolute in following the dictates of it
+than he had been in combating it while there was a possibility of
+doing so.
+
+To this end he went down to his country seat, and as soon as he arrived
+sent to let Louisa know he would have her come and pass some time with
+him. She readily obeyed the summons, and found by his manner of
+receiving her that she was no less dear to him than her brother. As she
+had always considered him as a father, tho' she knew all her claim in
+him was compassion, she was far from suspecting the motive which made
+him treat her with so much tenderness; but he suffered her not long to
+remain in this happy ignorance. As he was walking with her one day in
+the garden, he purposely led her on that side where he had found Horatio
+and herself in the manner already related; and as they came towards the
+arbour, It was here, said he, that heaven put into my power the
+opportunity of affording my protection to two persons whom I think will
+not be ungrateful for what I have done.--I hope, Louisa, continued he,
+you will not at least deceive my good opinion of you; but as you have
+always found in me a real friend, you will testify the sense you have of
+my good wishes, by readily following my advice in any material point.
+
+I should be else unworthy, sir, answered she, of the life you have
+preserved; and I flatter myself with being guilty of nothing which
+should give you cause to call in question either my gratitude or duty.
+
+I insist but on the former, resumed he; nor can pretend to any claim to
+the latter;--look on me therefore only as your friend, and let me know
+your sentiments plainly and sincerely on what I think proper to ask you.
+This she having assured him she would do, he pursued his discourse in
+these or the like terms:
+
+You are now, said he, arrived at an age when persons of your sex
+ordinarily begin to think of marriage.--I need not ask you if you have
+ever received any addresses for that purpose; the manner in which you
+have lived convinces me you are yet a stranger to them; but I would know
+of you whether an overture of that kind, in favour of a man of honour,
+and who can abundantly endow you with the goods of fortune, would be
+disagreeable to you.
+
+Alas! sir, replied she, blushing, you commanded me to answer with
+sincerity, but how can I resolve a question which as yet I have never
+asked myself?--All that I can say is, that I now am happy by your
+bounty, and have never entertained one wish but for the continuance
+of it.
+
+On that you may depend, said he, while you continue to stand in need of
+it. But would it not be more pleasing to find yourself the mistress of
+an ample fortune, and in a condition to do the same good offices by
+others as you have found from me?--In fine, Louisa, the care I have
+taken of you would not be complete unless I saw you well settled in the
+world.--I have therefore provided a husband for you, and such a one as I
+think you can have no reasonable objection to.
+
+Sir, it would ill-become me to dispute your will, answered she,
+modestly, but as I yet am very young, and have never had a thought of
+marriage, nor even conversed with any who have experienced that fate, I
+should be too much at a loss how to behave in it, without being allowed
+some time to consider on its respective duties.--I hope therefore, sir,
+continued she, you will not oblige me to act with too much precipitation
+in an affair on which the happiness or misery of my whole future
+life depends.
+
+Your very thinking it of consequence, said he, is enough to make you
+behave so, as to allure your happiness with a man of honour; and indeed
+Louisa, I love you too well to propose one to you whose principles and
+humour I could not answer for as well as my own.
+
+Yet, sir, replied she, I have read that a union of hearts as well as
+hands is necessary for the felicity of that state;--that there ought to
+be a simpathy of soul between them, and a perfect confidence in each
+other, before the indissoluble knot is tied:--and this, according to my
+notion, can only be the result of a long acquaintance and accompanied
+with many proofs of affection on both sides.
+
+Were all young women to think as you do, said he with a smile, we would
+have much fewer marriages; they would indeed be happier; therefore I am
+far from condemning your precaution, nor would wish you should give
+yourself to one till well assured he was incapable of treating you with
+less regard after marriage than before:--no, no, Louisa, I will never
+press you to become a wife, till you shall yourself acknowledge the man
+I offer to you as a husband is not unworthy of that title, thro' a want
+of honour, fortune, or affection.
+
+As Louisa thought this must be the work of time, the chagrin she felt at
+the first mention of marriage was greatly dissipated; and she told him,
+that when she was once convinced such a person as he described honoured
+her so far as to think she merited his affection, she would do all in
+her power to return it.
+
+The enamoured Dorilaus having now brought her to the point he aimed at,
+thought it best to throw off the mark at once, and leave her no longer
+in suspence.--Behold then in me, said he, the person I have mentioned:
+nor think me vain in ascribing those merits to myself which I would wish
+to be the loadstone of your affection.--My honour, I believe, you will
+not call in question:--my humour you have never found capricious, or
+difficult to please; and as for my love, you cannot but allow the
+conquering that aversion, which myself, as well as all the world,
+believed unalterable for a marriage state; besides a thousand other
+scruples opposed my entering into it with you, is a proof greater than
+almost any other man could give you.--There requires, therefore, my dear
+Louisa, no time to convince you of what I am, or assure you of what I
+may be; and I hope the affection you bore me, as a faithful friend, and
+the protector of your innocence, will not be diminished on my making
+this declaration.
+
+The confusion in which this speech involved her is even impossible to be
+conceived, much less can any words come up to its description: she
+blushed;--she trembled;--she was ready to die between surprize, grief
+and shame:--fain she would have spoke, but feared, lest what she should
+say would either lose his friendship or encourage his passion.--Each
+seemed equally dreadful to her:--no words presented themselves to her
+distracted mind that she could think proper to utter, till he pressing
+her several times to reply, and seeming a little to resent her
+silence--Oh! sir, cried she, how is it possible for me to make any
+answer to so strange a proposition!--you were not used to rally my
+simplicity; nor can I think you mean what you now mention. If there
+wanted no more, said he, than to prove the sincerity of my wishes in
+this point to gain your approbation of them, my chaplain should this
+moment put it past a doubt, and confirm my proposal:--but, pursued he, I
+will not put your modesty to any farther shock at present;--all I
+intreat is, that you will consider on what I have said, and what the
+passion I am possessed of merits from you. In concluding these words he
+kissed her with the utmost tenderness, and quitted her to speak to some
+men who were at work in another part of the garden, leaving her to
+meditate at liberty on this surprizing turn in her affairs.
+
+It was indeed necessary he should do so, for the various agitations she
+laboured under were so violent, as to be near throwing her into a
+swoon.--She no sooner found herself alone, than she flew to her
+chamber, and locked herself in, to prevent being interrupted by any of
+the servants; and as in all emotions of the mind, especially in that of
+a surprize, tears are a very great relief, her's found some ease from
+the sources of her eyes.--Never had the most dutiful child loved the
+tenderest of fathers more than she did Dorilaus; but then it was only a
+filial affection, and the very thoughts of his regarding her with that
+sort of passion she now found he did, had somewhat in them terribly
+alarming.--All she could do to reconcile herself to what seemed to be
+her fate was in vain.--This generous man who offers me his heart, said
+she, is not my father, or any way of my blood:--he has all the
+accomplishments of his whole sex centered in him.--I could wish to be
+for ever near him.--All that I am is owing to his goodness.--How
+wretched must I have been but for his bounty!--What unaccountable
+prejudice is this then that strikes me with such horror at his
+love!--what maid of birth and fortune equal to his own but would be
+proud of his addresses; and shall I, a poor foundling, the creature of
+his charity, not receive the honour he does me with the utmost
+gratitude!--shall I reject a happiness so far beyond my expectation!
+--so infinitely above any merit I can pretend to!--what must he think of
+me if I refuse him!--how madly stupid, how blind to my own interest, how
+thankless to him must I appear!--how will he despise my folly!--how
+hate my ingratitude!
+
+Thus did her reason combat with her prejudice, and she suffered much the
+same agonies in endeavouring to love him in the manner he desired, as he
+had done to conquer the inclination he had for her, and both alike were
+fruitless. Yet was her condition much more to be commiserated: he had
+only to debate within himself whether he should yield or not to the
+suggestions of his own passion: she to subdue an aversion for what a
+thousand reasons concurred to convince her she ought rather to be
+ambitious of, and which in refusing she run the risque of being cast
+off, and abandoned to beggary and ruin; and what was still more hateful
+to her, being hated by that person who, next to her brother, she loved
+above the world, tho' in a different way from that which could alone
+content him.
+
+Dorilaus, who had taken the disorder he perceived in her for no other
+than the effects of a surprize, which a declaration, such as he had
+made, might very well occasion, was perfectly contented in his mind, and
+passed that night with much more tranquility than he had done many
+preceding ones, while he suffered his cruel reason to war against the
+dictates of his heart; but having now wholly given himself up to the
+latter, the sweet delusion filled him with a thousand pleasing ideas,
+and he thought of nothing but the happiness he should enjoy in the
+possession of the amiable Louisa. But how confounded was he, when the
+next day accosting her with all the tender transports of a lover, she
+turned from him, and burst into a flood of tears. How is this, Louisa,
+said he; do the offers I make you merit to be treated with disdain? has
+my submitting to be your lover forfeited that respect you were wont to
+pay me as a guardian? O do not, sir, accuse me of such black
+ingratitude, replied she; heaven knows with what sincere and humble duty
+I regard you, and that I would sooner die than wilfully offend you; but
+if I am so unfortunate as not to be able to obey you in this last
+command, impute it, I beseech you, to my ill fate, and rather pity than
+condemn me.
+
+You cannot love me then? cried he, somewhat feircely. No otherwise than
+I have ever done, answered she. My heart is filled with duty, reverence
+and gratitude, of which your goodness is the only source: as for any
+other sort of love I know not what it is; were it a voluntary emotion,
+believe me, sir, I gladly would give it entrance into my soul, but I
+well see it is of a far different nature.
+
+Yet is your person at your own disposal, resumed he; and when possessed
+of that, the flame which burns so fiercely in my breast, in time may
+kindle one in yours. In speaking these words he took her in his arms,
+and kissed her with a vehemence which the prodigious respect she bore to
+him, as the patron and benefactor of herself and brother, could alone
+have made her suffer.--Her eyes however sparkled with indignation, tho'
+her tongue was silent, and at last bursting from his embrace, this, sir,
+cried she, is not the way to make me think as you would have me. As in
+this action he had no way transgressed the rules of decency, he could
+ill brook the finding her so much alarmed at it; and would have
+testified his resentment, had not the excess of his love, which is ever
+accompanied with an adequate share of respect, obliged him to stifle it.
+Well, Louisa, said he, looking earnestly upon her, ungenerously do you
+requite what I have done for you; but I, perhaps, may bring myself to
+other sentiments.--None, interrupted she, emboldened by the too great
+freedom she thought he had taken with her, can be so dreadful to me as
+those you now seem to entertain.
+
+The look he gave her on hearing her speak in this manner, made her
+immediately repent having been so open; and in the same breath, because;
+pursued she, I look on it as the worst evil could befal me that I am
+compelled to oppose them.
+
+Come, said he, again softened by these last words, you will not always
+oppose them: the fervor and constancy of my passion, joined with a
+little yielding on your side, will by degrees excite a tender impulse in
+you; and whatever is disagreeable at present, either in my person or
+behaviour, will wear of.--Permit me at least to flatter myself so far,
+and refuse me not those innocent endearments I have been accustomed to
+treat you with; before you knew me as a lover, or I indeed suspected I
+should be so.
+
+He then kissed her again; but tho' he constrained himself within more
+bounds than before, those caresses which she received with pleasure,
+when thinking them only demonstrations of friendship, were now irksome,
+as knowing them the effects of love: she suffered him however to embrace
+her several times, and hold one of her hands close pressed between his,
+while he endeavoured to influence her mind by all the tender arguments
+his passion, backed with an infinity of wit, inspired; to all which she
+made as few replies as possible; but he contented himself, as love is
+always flattering, with imagining she was less refractory to his suit
+than when he first declared it.
+
+Every day, and almost the whole day, did he entertain her on no other
+subject, but gained not the least ground on her inclinations; and all he
+could get from her was the wish of being less insensible, without the
+least indication of ever being so.
+
+In this manner did they live together near three weeks; and how much
+longer he would have been able to restrain his impatience, or she to
+conceal the extreme regret in being compelled to listen to him, is
+uncertain: a law-suit required his presence to town, and Louisa was in
+hopes of being relieved for some time; but his passion was arrived at
+such a height that he could not support the least absence from her, and
+therefore brought her to London with him, so that her persecution ceased
+not, he never stirring from her but when the most urgent business
+obliged him to it.
+
+One night happening to have stayed pretty late abroad, and in company,
+which occasioned his drinking more plentifully than he was accustomed,
+Louisa was retired to her chamber in order to go to bed: his love, ever
+uppermost in his head, would not permit him to think of sleeping without
+seeing her; accordingly he ran up into her room, and finding she was not
+undressed, told her he had something to acquaint her with, on which the
+maid that waited on her withdrew. Tho' the passion he was inspired with
+could not be heightened, his behaviour now proved it might at least be
+rendered more ungovernable by being enflamed with wine: He no sooner was
+alone with her, than he threw himself upon her as she was sitting in a
+chair, crying, O when my angel, my dear adored Louisa, will you consent
+to make me blest.--By heaven, I can no longer wait the tedious
+formalities your modesty demands.--I cannot think you hate me, and must
+this night ensure you mine. While he spoke these words his lips were so
+closely cemented to her's, that had there been no other hindrance, it
+would have been impossible for her to have reply'd.--But terrified
+beyond measure at the wild disorder of his looks, the expressions he
+made use of, and the actions that accompanied them, she wanted even the
+power of repulsing, till seeing her almost breathless, he withdrew his
+arms which he had thrown round her neck, and contenting himself with
+holding one of her hands,--Tell me, pursued he, when may I hope a
+recompence for all I have suffered?--I must, I will have an end of all
+these fears of offending;--this cruel constaint;--this distance between
+us.--Few men, Louisa, in the circumstances we both are, would, like me,
+so long attend a happiness in my power to seize.--Trifle not therefore
+with a passion, the consequences of which there is no answering for.
+
+O, sir! said she, with a trembling voice, you cannot, from the most
+generous, virtuous and honourable man living, degenerate into a brutal
+ravisher.--You will not destroy the innocence you have cherished, and
+which is all that is valuable in the poor Louisa. She ended these words
+with a flood of tears, which, together with the sight of the confusion
+he had occasioned, made him a little recollect himself; and to prevent
+the wildness of his desires from getting the better of those rules he
+had resolved to observe, he let go her hand, and having told her that he
+would press her no farther that night, but expected a more satisfactory
+answer the next day, went out of her chamber, and left her to enjoy what
+repose she could after the alarm he had given her.
+
+
+
+CHAP. III.
+
+_Dorilaus continues his importunities, with some unexpected consequences
+that attended them_.
+
+Poor Louisa concealed the distraction she was in as much as possible she
+could from the maid, who immediately came into the room on Dorilaus
+having quitted it, and suffered her to undress, and put her to bed as
+usual; but was no sooner there, than instead of composing herself to
+sleep, she began to reflect on what he had said:--the words, _that there
+was no answering for the consequences of a passion such as his_, gave
+her the most terrible idea.--His actions too, this night, seem'd to
+threaten her with all a virgin had to fear.--She knew him a man of
+honour, but thought she had too much reason to suspect that if she
+persisted in refusing to be his wife, that passion which had influenced
+him, contrary to his character, to make her such an offer, would also be
+too potent for any consideration of her to restrain him from proceeding
+to extremities. Having debated every thing within her own mind, she
+thought she ought not to continue a day longer in the power of a man who
+loved her to this extravagant degree: where to go indeed she knew
+not;--she had no friend, or even acquaintance, to whom she might repair,
+or hope to be received.--How should she support herself then?--which way
+procure even the most common necessaries of life?--This was a dreadful
+prospect! yet appeared less so than that she would avoid: even starving
+lost its horrors when compared either to being compelled to wed a man
+whom she could not affect as a husband, or, by refusing him, run the
+risque of forfeiting her honour.--She therefore hesitated but a small
+time, and having once formed the resolution of quitting Dorilaus's
+house, immediately set about putting it into execution.
+
+In the first place, not to be ungrateful to him as a benefactor, she sat
+down and wrote the following letter to be left for him on her table:
+
+SIR,
+
+'Heaven having rendered me of a disposition
+utterly incapable of receiving the honour
+you would do me, it would be an ill return for
+all the unmerited favours you have heaped upon
+me to prolong the disquiets I have unhappily occasioned
+by continuing in your presence;--besides,
+sir, the education you have vouchsafed to
+give me has been such, as informs me a person
+of my sex makes but an odd figure while in the
+power of one of yours possessed of the sentiments
+you are.'
+
+'These, sir, are the reasons which oblige me to
+withdraw; and I hope, when well considered,
+will enough apologize for my doing so, to keep
+you from hating what you have but too much
+loved; for I beseech you to believe a great truth,
+which is, that the most terrible idea I carry with
+me is, lest while I fly the one, I should incur the
+other; and that, wheresoever my good or ill stars
+shall conduct me, my first and last prayers shall
+be for the peace, health, and prosperity of my
+most generous and ever honoured patron and benefactor.'
+
+'Judge favourably, therefore, of this action,
+and rather pity than condemn the unfortunate
+
+LOUISA.'
+
+
+Having sealed and directed this, she dressed herself in one of the least
+remarkable and plainest suits she had, taking nothing with her but a
+little linnen which she crammed into her pockets, and so sat waiting
+till she heard some of the family were stirring; then went down stairs,
+and being; seen by one of the footmen, she told him she was not very
+well, and was going to take a little walk in hopes the fresh air might
+relieve her; he offered to wait upon her, but she refused, saying, she
+chose to go alone.
+
+Thus had she made her escape; but, when in the street, was seized with
+very alarming apprehensions.--She was little acquainted with the town,
+and knew not which way to turn in search of a retreat.--Resolving,
+however, to go far enough, at least, from the house she had quitted, she
+wandered on, almost tired to death, without stopping any where, till
+chance directed her to a retired nook, where she saw a bill for lodgings
+on one of the doors.--Here she went in, and finding the place convenient
+for her present circumstances, hired a small, but neat chamber, telling
+the people of the house that she was come to town in order to get a
+service, and till she heard of one to her liking, would be glad to do
+any needle-work she should be employed in.
+
+The landlady, who happened to be a good motherly sort of woman, replied,
+that she was pleased with her countenance, or she would not have
+taken her in without enquiring into her character; and as she seemed not
+to be desirous of an idle life, she would recommend her to those that
+should find her work if she stayed with her never so long.
+
+This was joyful news to our fair fugitive; and she blessed heaven for so
+favourable a beginning of her adventures. The woman was punctual to her
+promise; and being acquainted with a very great milliner, soon brought
+her more work than she could do, without encroaching into those hours
+nature requires for repose: but she seemed not to regret any fatigue to
+oblige the person who employed her, and sent home all she did so neat,
+so curious, and well wrought, that the milliner easily saw she had not
+been accustomed to do it for bread, and was very desirous of having her
+into the house, and securing her to herself. Louisa thinking it would be
+living with less care, agreed to go, on this condition, that she should
+be free to quit her in case any offer happened of waiting upon a lady.
+This was consented to by the other, who told her, that since she had
+that design, she could no where be so likely to succeed as at her house,
+which was very much frequented by the greatest ladies in the kingdom,
+she having the most Curiosities of any woman of her trade, which they
+came there to raffle for.
+
+On this Louisa took leave of her kind landlady, who having taken a great
+fancy to her, and believing it would be for her advantage, was not sorry
+to part with her. A quite new scene of life now presented itself to
+her:--she found indeed the milliner had not made a vain boast; for her
+house was a kind of rendezvous, where all the young and gay of both
+sexes daily resorted.--It was here the marquis of W----r lost his heart,
+for a time, to the fine mrs. S----ge:--here, that the duke of G----n
+first declared his amorous inclinations for mrs. C----r:--here, that the
+seemingly virtuous lady B----n received the addresses of that agreeable
+rover mr. D----n:--here, that the beautiful dutchess of M---- gave that
+encouragement, which all the world had sighed for, to the more fortunate
+than constant mr. C----: in fine, it might properly enough be called the
+theatre of gallantry, where love and wit joined to display their several
+talents either in real or pretended passions.
+
+Louisa usually sat at work in a back parlor behind that where the
+company were; but into which some of them often retired to talk to each
+other with more freedom.
+
+This gave her an opportunity of seeing in what manner too many of the
+great world passed their time, and how small regard some of them pay to
+the marriage vow: everyday presented her with examples of husbands, who
+behaved with no more than a cold civility to their own wives, and
+carried the fervor of their addresses to those of other men; and of
+wives who seemed rather to glory in, than be ashamed of a train of
+admirers. How senseless would these people think me, said she to
+herself, did they know I chose rather to work for my bread in mean
+obscurity, than yield to marry where I could not love.--Tenderness,
+mutual affection, and constancy. I find, are things not thought
+requisite to the happiness of a wedded state; and interest and
+convenience alone consulted. Yet was she far from repenting having
+rejected Dorilaus, or being in the lead influenced by the example of
+others.--The adventures she was witness of made her, indeed, more
+knowing of the world, but were far from corrupting those excellent
+morals she had received from nature, and had been so well improved by a
+strict education, that she not only loved virtue for its own sake, but
+despised and hated vice, tho' disguised under the most specious
+pretences.
+
+Her youth, beauty, and a certain sprightliness in her air, was too
+engaging to be in the house of such a woman as mrs. C----ge, (for so
+this court-milliner was called) without being very much taken notice of;
+and tho' most of the gentlemen who came there had some particular object
+in view, yet that did not hinder them from saying soft things to the
+pretty Louisa as often as they had opportunity. Among the number of
+those who pretended to admire her was mr. B----n, afterwards lord F----h;
+but his addresses were so far from making any impression on her in
+favour of his person or suit, that the one was wholly indifferent to
+her, and the other so distasteful, that to avoid being persecuted with
+it, she entreated mrs. C----ge to permit her to work above stairs, that
+she might be out of the way of all such solicitations for the future,
+either from him or any other. This request was easily complied with, and
+the rather because she, who knew not the strength of her journey-woman's
+resolution, nor the principles she had been bred in, was sometimes in
+fear of losing so great a help to her business, by the temptations that
+might be offered in a place so much exposed to sight. Mr. B----n no
+sooner missed her, than he enquired with a good deal of earnestness for
+her; and on mrs. C----ge's telling him she was gone away from her house,
+became so impatient to know where, and on what account she had left her,
+that this woman thinking it would be of advantage to her to own the
+truth, (for she did nothing without that view) turned off the imposition
+with a smile, and said, that perceiving the inclinations he had for her,
+she had sent her upstairs that no other addresses might be a hindrance
+to his designs.--This pleased him very well, and he ran directly to the
+room where he was informed she was, and after some little discourse,
+which he thought was becoming enough from a person of his condition to
+one of her's, began to treat her with freedoms which she could not help
+resisting with more fierceness than he had been accustomed to from women
+of a much higher rank; but as he had no great notion of virtue,
+especially among people of her sphere, he mistook all she said or did
+for artifice; and imagining she enhanced the merit of the gift only to
+enhance the recompence, he told her he would make her a handsome
+settlement, and offered, as an earnest of his future gratitude, a purse
+of money. The generous maid fired with a noble disdain at a proposal,
+which she looked on only as an additional insult, struck down the purse
+with the utmost indignation and cried, she was not of the number of
+those who thought gold an equivalent for infamy; and that mean as she
+appeared, not all his wealth should bribe her to a dishonourable action.
+At first he endeavoured to laugh her out of such idle notions as he
+called them, and was so far from being rebuffed at any thing she said,
+that he began to kiss and toy with her more freely than before, telling
+her he would bring her into a better humour; but he was wholly deceived
+in his expectations, if he had any of the nature he pretended, for she
+became so irritated at being treated in this manner, that she called out
+to the servants to come to her assistance, and protected she would not
+stay an hour longer in the house if she could not be secured from such
+impertinencies; on which he said she was a silly romantic fool, and
+flung out of the room.
+
+Mrs. C----ge hearing there had been some bustle, came up soon after and
+found Louisa in tears: she immediately complained, of mr. B----n's
+behaviour to her, and said, tho' she acknowledged herself under many
+obligations to her for the favours she had conferred on her, she could
+not think of remaining in a place where, tho' she could not say her
+virtue had any severe trials, because she had a natural detestation to
+crimes of the kind that gentleman and some others had mentioned, yet her
+person was liable to be affronted. The milliner, who was surprized to
+hear her talk in this manner, but who understood her trade perfectly
+well, answered, that he was the best conditioned civil gentleman in the
+world;--that she did not know how it happened;--that she was certain
+indeed he loved her; and that it was in his power to make her a very
+happy woman if she were inclined to accept his offers;--but she would
+perswade her to nothing.
+
+These kind of discourses created a kind of abhorrence in Louisa, as they
+plainly shewed her, what before she had some reason to believe, that she
+was in the house of one who would think nothing a crime that she found
+it her own interest to promote. However, she thought it would be
+imprudent to break too abruptly with her, and contented herself for the
+present with encasing her promise that neither mr. B----n, nor any other
+person should for the future give her the least interruption of the
+like sort.
+
+From this day, however, she was continually ruminating how she should
+quit her house, without running the risque of disobliging her so far as
+not to be employed by her; for tho' she found herself at present free
+from any of those importunities to which both by nature and principles
+she was so averse, yet she could not answer to herself the continuing in
+a place where virtue was treated as a thing of little or no consequence,
+and where she knew not how soon she might again be subjected
+to affronts.
+
+Amidst these meditations the thoughts of Dorilaus frequently intervened:
+she reflected on the obligations she had to him, and the mighty
+difference between the morals of that truly noble and generous man, and
+most of those she had seen at mrs. C----ge's: she wondered at herself at
+the antipathy she had to him as a husband, whom she so dearly loved and
+honoured as a friend; yet nothing could make her wish to be again on the
+same terms with him she had lately been. It also greatly added to her
+affliction that she knew not how to direct to her brother; for at the
+time of his departure, little suspicious of having any occasion to
+change the place of her abode, she had left the care of that entirely to
+Dorilaus. She was one morning very much lost in thought on the odd
+circumstances of her fortune, when a Gazette happening to lye upon the
+table, she cast her eye, without design, upon the following
+advertisement.
+
+
+'Whereas a young gentlewoman has lately
+thought fit to abscond from her best friends,
+and with the most diligent search that could possibly
+be made after her has not yet been heard of,
+this is to acquaint her that if she pleases to return,
+she shall hereafter have no disturbance of that
+nature which it is supposed occasioned her withdrawing
+herself, but live entirely according to
+her own inclinations; and this the advertiser
+hereof gives his word and honour (neither of
+which she has any cause to doubt) faithfully to
+adhere to.'
+
+'It shall also be at her choice to live either at
+the house she quitted, or to be again under the
+care of that gentlewoman who was entrusted
+with her education: she is therefore requested to
+conceal herself no longer, lest her youth, beauty,
+and inexperience of the town should betray her
+innocence into those very snares she fears to fall
+into.'
+
+
+The very beginning of this paragraph gave her a conjecture it was meant
+for no other than herself; and the more she read, the more she grew
+convinced, of it.--It must be so, cryed she; every word,--every
+circumstance confirms it.--How unhappy am I that I cannot return so
+perfect an affection!--Instead of detesting my ingratitude, he only
+fears I should receive the punishment of it.--What man but Dorilaus
+would behave thus to the creature of his benevolence?--If I have any
+merits, do not I owe them to his goodness?--My brother and myself, two
+poor exposed and wretched foundlings, what but his bounty rear'd us to
+what we are?--Hard fate!--unlucky passion that drives me from his
+presence and protection.
+
+Yet, would she say again, if he has indeed subdued that passion;--if he
+resolves to think of me as before he entertained it; if I were certain
+he would receive me as a child, how great would be, the blessing!
+
+This confederation had so much effect on her, that she was half
+determined to comply with the advertisement; but when she remembered to
+have read that where love is sincere and violent, it requires a length
+of time to be erased, and that those possessed of it are incapable of
+knowing even their own strength, and, as he had said to her himself,
+_that there was no answering for the consequences,_ she grew instantly
+of another mind, and thought that putting herself again into the power
+of such a passion was running too great a hazard.
+
+The continual agitations of her mind, joined to want of air, a quite
+different way of life, and perhaps fitting more closely to work than she
+had been accustomed, threw her at length into a kind of languishing
+indisposition, which, tho' it did not confine her to her bed, occasioned
+a loss of appetite, and frequent faintings, which were very alarming to
+her. Mrs. C----ge was extremely concerned to observe this change in her,
+and would have the opinion of her own physician, who said that she had
+symptoms of an approaching consumption, and that it was absolutely
+necessary she should be removed into the country for some time.
+
+Louisa readily complied with this advice, not only because she imagined
+it might be of service for the recovery of her health, but also as it
+furnished her with a pretence for leaving mrs. C----ge's house, to which
+she was determined to return no more as a boarder. The good woman with
+whom she had lodged at first recommended her to a friend of her's at
+Windsor, where she immediately went, and was very kindly received.
+
+
+
+CHAP. IV.
+
+_Louisa becomes acquainted with a lady of quality, part of whose
+adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her_.
+
+Change of place affords but small relief to those whose distempers are
+in the mind: Louisa carried with her too many perplexing thoughts to be
+easily shook off; tho' the queen and court being then at Windsor, she
+had the opportunity of seeing a great many of the gay world pass daily
+by her window.--There also lodged in the same house with her a young
+widow of quality, who was visited by persons of the first rank; but as
+she was not of a condition to make one in any of these conversations,
+she reaped no other satisfaction from them than what the eye afforded.
+
+As she was not, however, of a temper to indulge melancholy, she made it
+her endeavour to banish, as much as possible, all ideas which were
+displeasing from her mind: to this end, a fine harpsicord happening to
+stand in the dining-room, whenever the lady was abroad, she went in and
+diverted herself with playing. She was one day entertaining the woman of
+the house with a tune, which she accompanied with her voice, when the
+lady returning sooner than was expected, and hearing the instrument
+before she came up stairs, would needs know who it was had been making
+use of it; for Louisa hurried out of the room before she came in: the
+landlady, as there was no occasion to disguise the truth, told her that
+it was a young woman, who not being very well, had come down into the
+country for air.
+
+She has had an excellent education, I am certain, said the lady, (who
+henceforward we shall call Melanthe) for in my life I never heard any
+body play or sing better:--I must be acquainted with her; on which the
+other said she would let her know the honour she intended her.
+
+That very evening, as great ladies no sooner think of any thing but they
+must have it performed, was Louisa sent for into her apartment; and her
+countenance and behaviour so well seconded the good impression her skill
+in music had begun, that Melanthe became charm'd with her, and from that
+time obliged her to come to her every morning; and whenever she was
+without company, made her dine and sup with her. Being curious to know
+her circumstances, Louisa made no scruple of acquainting her with the
+truth, only instead of relating how she had been exposed in her infancy,
+said, that having the misfortune to be deprived of her parents, it was
+her intention to wait on a lady, and till she heard of one who would
+accept her service, she had work'd at her needle.
+
+Melanthe then asked if she would live with her; to which the other
+gladly answering, she should think herself happy in such a lady; but you
+must go abroad then, said she, for I am weary of England, and am
+preparing to travel: as it is a route of pleasure only, I shall stay
+just as long as I find any thing new and entertaining in one place, then
+go to another till I am tired of that, and so on, I know not how long;
+for unless my mind alters very much, I shall not come back in
+some years.
+
+Louisa was perfectly transported to hear her say this; she had a great
+desire to see foreign parts, and thought she never could have a better
+opportunity: she expressed the pleasure she should take in attending her
+wherever she went with so much politeness and sincerity, that Melanthe
+told her, it should be her own fault if she ever quitted her, and withal
+assured her, she never would treat her in any other manner than a
+companion, and that tho' she would make her a yearly allowance for
+cloaths and card-money, yet she would expect no other service from her
+than fidelity to her secrets, and affection to her person.
+
+From the moment this agreement was made, the young Louisa regained her
+complection and her appetite; and being now initiated into the family of
+this lady, had no longer any care to take than to oblige her, a thing
+not difficult, Melanthe being good-natured, and strongly prepossessed in
+favour of her new friend, for so she vouchsafed to call her, and to use
+her accordingly.
+
+As a proof of it, she made her in a very short time the confident of her
+dearest secrets: they were one day sitting together, when accidentally
+some mention was made of the power of love. You are too young, Louisa,
+said Melanthe, to have experienced the wonderful effects of that passion
+in yourself, and therefore cannot be expected to have much compassion
+for what it can inflict on others.
+
+Indeed, madam, answered she, tho' I never have yet seen a man who gave
+me a moment's pain on that score, yet I believe there are no emotions
+whatever so strong as those of love, and that it is capable of
+influencing people of the best sense to things which in their nature
+they are most averse to.
+
+Well, my dear, resumed the other, since I find you have so just a notion
+of it, I will confide in your discretion so far as to let you know, that
+but for an ungrateful man, I had not looked on my native country as a
+desart, and resolved to seek a cure for my ill-treated and abused
+tenderness in foreign parts.
+
+My quality, continued she, I need not inform you of; you have doubtless
+heard that my family yields to few in antiquity, and that there is an
+estate belonging to it sufficient to support the dignity of its title;
+but my father having many children, could not give very great portions
+to the daughters: I was therefore disposed of, much against my
+inclinations, to a nobleman, whom my unlucky charms had so much
+captivated as to make him not only take me with no other dowry than my
+cloaths and jewels, but also to settle a large jointure upon me, which,
+he being dead, I at present enjoy. I cannot say that all the obligations
+he laid upon me could engage a reciprocal regard:--I behaved with
+indifference to him while living, and little lamented him when dead: not
+that I was prepossessed in favour of any other man;--my heart, entirely
+free, was reserved to be the conquest of the too charming perfidious
+Henricus, who arriving soon after my lord's decease, and bringing with
+him all the accomplishments which every different court he had visited
+could afford, join'd to the most enchanting person nature ever formed,
+soon made me know I was not that insensible creature I had
+thought myself.
+
+I happened to be at court when he came to kiss her majesty's hand on his
+return; and whether it was that my eyes testified too much the
+admiration this first sight of him struck me with, or that he really
+discovered something more attractive in me than any lady in the presence
+I know not, but he seemed to distinguish me in a particular manner, and
+I heard him say to my lord G----n in a whisper, that I was the finest
+woman he had ever seen; but what gave me more pleasure than even this
+praise, was an agreement I heard made between him and the same lord to
+go that evening to a raffle at mrs. C--rt-s--r's. I was one of those who
+had put in, tho' if I had not, I should certainly, have gone for a
+second sight of him, who when he went out of the drawing-room seemed to
+have left me but half myself.
+
+In fine, I went, and had there wanted any thing to have entirely
+vanquished me, my conqueror's manner of address had done it with a form
+less agreeable.--O Louisa, pursued she with a sigh, if you have never
+seen or heard the charming Henricus, you can have no notion of what is
+excellent in man; such flowing wit;--such softness in his voice and
+air;--but there is no describing what he is. He seemed all transport at
+meeting me there; among a number of ladies I alone engrossed him: he
+scarce spoke to any other; and being so fortunate to win the raffle,
+which was a fine inlaid India cabinet, instead of sending it to his own
+house, he privately ordered his servant to leave it at mine, lord G----n
+having, as he afterwards told me, informed him where I lived, and also
+all the particulars he wanted to know concerning me.
+
+I was prodigiously surprized when I came home and found the Cabinet,
+which my woman imagined I had won by its being brought thither. It was
+indeed a piece of gallantry I had no reason to expect from one so
+perfect a stranger to me; and this, joined with the many complaisant
+things he said to me at mrs. C--rt-f--r's, flattered my vanity enough to
+make me think he was no less charmed with me than I too plainly found I
+was with him. I slept little that night, and pretty early the next
+morning received a billet from him to this effect:
+
+MADAM,
+
+'I thought the cabinet we raffled for was more
+properly the furniture of a lady's closet than
+mine, especially one who must daily receive a
+great number of such epistles as it was doubtless
+intended by the maker to contain: happy should
+I think myself if any thing of mine might find
+room among those which, for their wit and elegance,
+may be more worthy of preferring, tho'
+none can be for their sincerity more so than those
+which are dictated by the eternally devoted heart of
+
+HENRICUS.'
+
+You cannot imagine, my dear Louisa, how delighted I was with these few
+lines; I enclosed them indeed in the cabinet given me by the author of
+them, but laid up their meaning in my heart:--I was quite alert the
+whole day, but infinitely more so, when in the evening my admired
+Henricus made me a visit introduced by lord H----, who had been one of
+my late husband's particular friends, and had ever kept a good
+correspondence with me.
+
+Henricus took, not the least notice either of the cabinet or letter
+before him; and as I imagined he had his reasons for it, I too was
+silent on that head; he took the opportunity, however, while lord H----
+was speaking to a young lady who happened to be with me, to ask
+permission to wait on me with the hope of being received on his own
+score as he was now on that of his friend. I told him that merit, such
+as his, was sufficient to recommend him any where; and, besides, I had
+an obligation to him which I ought to acknowledge. This was all either
+of us had time to say; but it was enough to make me convinced he desired
+a more particular conversation, and him, that it would not be
+unwelcome to me.
+
+Thus began an acquaintance equally fatal to my peace of mind and
+reputation; and having said that, it would be needless to repeat the
+circumstances of it, therefore shall only tell you I was so infatuated
+with my passion, that I never gave myself the trouble to examine into
+the nature of his pretensions, and lull'd with the vows he made of
+everlasting love, resented not that he forbore pressing to that ceremony
+which could alone ensure it:--yes, my Louisa, I will not wrong him so
+far as to say he deceived me in this point; for tho' he protested with
+the most solemn imprecations that he would never address any either
+woman than myself, yet he never once mentioned marriage to me.--Alass!
+he too well saw into my heart, and that all my faculties were too much
+his to be able to refuse him any thing:--even so it proved;--he
+triumphed over all in my power to yield;--nay, was so far subdued, that
+I neither regretted my loss, nor used any endeavours to conceal
+it;--vain of being his at any rate, I thought his love more glory to me
+than either fame or virtue; and while I was known to enjoy the one,
+despised whatever censures I incurred for parting with the other:--in
+the mall, the play-house, the ring, at Bath or Tunbridge, he was always
+with me; nor would any thing indeed have been a diversion to me had he
+been absent.
+
+For upwards of a year I had no reason to complain of his want of
+assiduity to me, tho' I have since heard even in that time he had other
+amours with women who carried them on with more prudence than I was
+mistress of; but I had afterwards a stabbing proof of his insincerity
+and inconstancy.
+
+Perceiving a great alteration in his behaviour, that he visited me less
+frequently, and when he came, the ardours he was accustomed to treat me
+with still more and more languid and enforced, I upbraided him in terms
+which, tho' they shewed more love than resentment, and had he retained
+any tolerable remains of tenderness for me, must have been rather
+obliging than the contrary, he affected to take extremely ill, and told
+me plainly, that nothing was so dear to him as his peace,--that he was
+not of a temper to endure reproaches, and that, if I desired the
+continuance of our amour, I must be satisfied with him as he was. These
+cool, and indeed insolent replies made me almost distracted; and
+beginning to suspect he had some new engagement, I talked to him in a
+manner as if I had been assured of it:--he, perhaps, imagining it was
+so, made no efforts to cure my jealousy, but behaved with so cruel an
+indifference as confirmed my apprehensions.
+
+Resolving to be convinced whether I really had any rival or not, I
+employed spies to observe where-ever he went, and to whom; but alass,
+there required little pains to acquire the intelligence I fought.--I
+was soon informed that he was every day with the daughter of a little
+mechanic;--that he made her very rich presents, procured a commission in
+the army for one of her brothers, and in fine, that he was as much
+devoted to her as a man of his inconstant temper could be to any woman.
+
+How severe a mortification was this to my pride! but it had this good
+attending it, that it very much abated my love:--to be abandoned for so
+mean a creature, and who had nothing but youth and a tolerable face to
+recommend her, shewed such a want of taste as well as gratitude, as
+rendered despicable in my eyes what had lately engrossed all my love and
+admiration.--The moment I received the information I sent for him;--and
+forcing my countenance to a serenity my heart was a stranger to, told
+him it was only to take a last leave of a person whom I had been so far
+mistaken in as to think deserving my affection: that I desired to see
+him once more, but having now seen my error, desired he would desist his
+visits for the future. He asked me with the same calmness he had lately
+behaved with, what whim I had got in my head now, I, who had before
+determined not to feed my rival's pride by shewing any jealousy of her,
+only replied, that as amours, such as ours had been, must have an end
+some time or other,--I thought none could be more proper than the
+present, because I believed both of us could do it without pain.
+
+Answer for yourself, madam, cried he with some emotion, for I could
+perceive my behaviour had a little flung his vanity; and resolute to
+give him in my turn all the mortification in my power, nay, said I with
+a disdainful toss of my head, I do not enquire into your sentiments,--it
+is sufficient mine are to break entirely off with you;--neither is it
+any concern to me how you may resent this alteration in my conduct, or
+dispose of yourself hereafter; but I once more assure you, with my usual
+frankness, that I now can see none of those perfections my foolish fancy
+formerly found in you, and cannot be complaisant enough to counterfeit a
+tenderness I neither feel nor think you worthy of.
+
+The surprize he was in kept him silent for some moments; but recovering
+himself as well as he could, he told me, that if the levity of my nature
+had made me cease to love him, he could not have expected endearments
+should be converted into affronts; that if I was determined to see him
+no more he must submit, and should endeavour to make himself as easy as
+he could under the misfortune.
+
+These last words were uttered with a kind of sneer, which was very
+provoking, however, I restrained my passion during the little time he
+stayed; but as soon as I found myself alone gave it vent in tears and
+exclamations,--since which I have been mere at peace within myself; for
+tho' I cannot say I hate him, I am now far from loving him, and hope
+that time and absence may bring me to a perfect indifference.
+
+Thus, Louisa, continued she, you see the beginning and end of an
+adventure which has made some noise in town, to be out of which I have
+taken a resolution to travel till the whole shall be forgotten, and I
+have entirely rooted out of my heart all manner of consideration for
+this ungrateful man.
+
+Louisa thanked her for the condescension me had made her in entrusting
+her with so important a secret, and said every thing she could in praise
+of the resolution she had taken to leave England for a time, not only
+because it was exactly conformable to her own desires, but also that she
+thought it so laudable in itself. Melanthe then assured her that she was
+not capable of changing her mind in this particular, and that her
+equipage was getting ready at London for that purpose, so that she
+believed they should embark in a few days. Louisa, on hearing this,
+said, that she must then provide herself with some things it would be
+necessary for her to have in order to appear in the station her ladyship
+was pleased to place her; but the other, who, as may be seen by her
+history, never preserved a medium in any thing, would not suffer her to
+be at the least expence on that account, but took the care of furnishing
+her with every thing on herself; and accordingly sent a man and horse to
+town directly to her mercer's, draper's, milliner's, and other
+tradesmen, with orders to send down silks, laces, hollands, and whatever
+else was requisite; which being brought, were put to be made fit for
+wearing by workwomen at Windsor; so that now our Louisa made as good a
+figure, and had as great a variety of habits as when under the
+guardianship of Dorilaus, and, to complete her happiness, this new
+benefactress grew every day more, and more delighted with her company.
+
+All being now prepared, they came to London, where they lay but one
+night before they took shipping for Helvoetsluys in Holland, where,
+being safely landed, they proceeded to Utrecht, and so to
+Aix-la-chappelle; there they stayed some weeks for the sake of the
+waters, air, and good company; and Louisa thought it so pleasant, that
+she would have been glad not to have removed for some time longer; but
+Melanthe was yet restless in her mind, and required frequent change of
+place. Here it was, however, that Louisa thought she might venture to
+write to Dorilaus, to ease him of that kind concern she doubted not but
+he was in for her welfare, by the advertisement already mentioned in the
+Gazette. The purport of her letter was as follows:
+
+_Ever Honoured Sir_,
+
+'Child of your bounty as I am, I flatter myself
+that, in spight of my enforc'd disobedience,
+it would be a trouble to you to hear I should
+do any thing unworthy of that education you were
+pleased to bestow on me: I therefore take the liberty
+of acquainting you, that heaven has raised
+me a protectress in a lady of quality with whom
+I now am, as you will see by the date of this, at
+Aix-la-chappelle. As all the favours I receive
+from her, or all the good that shall happen during
+my whole life is, and will be entirely owing
+to you as the fountain-head, it will be always my
+inclination, as well as duty, to pay you the tribute
+of grateful thanks.--Poor recompence,
+alas, for all you have done for me! yet those,
+with my incessant prayers to heaven, are all in
+the power of
+
+_Your most dutiful_
+
+LOUISA.'
+
+She took no notice of the advertisement, not only as she could not be
+positive it related to herself, as also because she thought, if he were
+certain she had read it, he might resent her not answering it, as
+discovering a too great diffidence of his honour. She added, however, a
+postscript, entreating him to let her brother know, that whatever
+happened, he should have no reason to find fault with her conduct.
+
+After they left Aix-la-chappelle, they took bye roads to avoid the
+armies; yet notwithstanding all their care, they now and then met
+parties who were out on foraging, but as it happened, they were always
+under the conduct of officers who prevented any ill accident, so that
+our travellers met with no manner of interruption, but arrived safely at
+the magnificent city of Vienna, where was at that time an extreme gay
+court, affording every thing capable of diverting a much more settled
+melancholy than either Melanthe or her fair companion were possessed of.
+
+The arch-dutchesses, Mary Elizabeth, and Mary Anna Josepha, afterward
+queen of Portugal, had frequent balls and entertainments in their
+different drawing-rooms; to all which Melanthe, being a stranger and a
+woman of quality, was invited: she kept her promise with Louisa; and
+treating her as a young lady, whose friendship for her, and a desire of
+seeing the world had engaged to accompany her, she was received and
+respected as such; and by this means had an opportunity of shewing the
+skill she had in dancing, singing, music, and indeed all the
+accomplishments that a woman born and educated to the best expectations,
+is usually instructed in. As neither her lady nor herself understood the
+German language, and she spoke infinitely the best French, her
+conversation was the most agreeable, which, joined with a most engaging
+manner, and a peculiar sweetness in her voice, attracted all those
+civilities which the rank of the other demanded.
+
+Possessed of so many charms, it would have been strange if, in a city
+throng'd like Vienna with young noblemen, who were continually coming
+from all parts of the empire, she had lived without some who pretended
+to somewhat more than mere admiration; but her heart had not refused the
+worthy Dorilaus to become the conquest of a German; nor was it here she
+was ordained to experience those anxieties in herself, she could but
+imperfectly conceive by the description she had from others.
+
+Melanthe, however, whose sole aim was to drive all perplexing thoughts
+from her mind, encouraged a great number of visitors, so that her
+lodgings seemed a perfect theatre of gallantry; and Louisa having her
+share in all the amusements this lady prepared for the reception of
+those that came to see her, or were contrived for her entertainment by
+others, past her time in the most gay and agreeable manner imaginable,
+and by this means acquired the knowledge of almost the only thing she
+before was ignorant in, how to receive a multiplicity of company, yet to
+behave so is each should imagine themselves most welcome;--to seem
+perfectly open, without discovering any thing improper to be
+revealed;--to use all decent freedoms with the men, yet not encourage
+the least from them, and to seem to make a friend of every woman she
+conversed with, without putting truth in any;--and in fine, all the
+little policies which make up the art of what is called a polite
+address, and which is not to be attained without an acquaintance with
+the court and great world.
+
+This, I say, our amiable foundling was now well vers'd in, and practised
+among those who she found made a practice of it; but yet retained the
+same sincerity of mind, love of virtue, and detestation of vice, she
+brought with her from the house of Dorilaus:--neither was her youth too
+much dazled with the exterior splendor she beheld; and tho' she was well
+enough pleased with it, yet it did not in the least take her off from
+the duties of religion, or inspire her with any ambitious or aspiring
+wishes to become what the remembrance of what she was forbid any
+probable expectation of. She knew the present fashion of her life was
+not an assured settlement, and therefore set not her heart upon it. Few
+at her years would have had the like prudence, or in time armed
+themselves, as she did, against any change that might befal her.
+
+In this happy situation let us leave her for a while: the young Horatio
+claims his share of attention; and it is time to see what encouragement
+and success his martial ardor met with on the banks of the Danube.
+
+
+
+CHAP. V.
+
+_Horatio's reception by the officers of the army; his behaviour in the
+battle; his being taken prisoner by the French; his treatment among
+them, and many other particulars._
+
+The extreme graceful person of Horatio, his youth, handsome equipage,
+and the letters sent by Dorilaus to several of the principal officers in
+his favour, engaged him a reception answerable to his wishes: but none
+was of greater service than the recommendation he had to colonel
+Brindfield, who being in great favour with the duke of Marlborough, was
+highly respected by the whole army. This gentleman made him dine
+frequently with him, and testified the regard he had for Dorilaus, by
+doing all the good offices he could to a youth whom he perceived by his
+letter he had a great concern for. He not only introduced him to the
+acquaintance of many officers of condition, but took an opportunity of
+presenting him to the duke himself, giving at the same time his grace an
+account that he was a gentleman whose inclinations to arms, and the
+honour of serving under his grace, had made him renounce all other
+advantages for the hope of doing something worthy of his favour. The
+duke looked all the time he was speaking very attentively on the young
+Horatio, and finding something in his air that corroborated the
+colonel's description, was pleased to say, that he was charm'd with his
+early thirst after same; and then turning toward him, you will soon,
+pursued he, have an opportunity of seeing how the face of war looks,
+near at hand:--I can tell you, that you must not always expect smiles.
+No, my lord, replied he, without being at all daunted at the presence of
+so great a man; but where we love all countenances are agreeable.
+
+He arrived indeed opportunely to be a witness of the dangers of that
+glorious campaign which brought such shame to the French, such honour to
+the English, and such real advantages to the empire. Prince Eugene of
+Savoy, and prince Lewis of Baden were come to the duke's quarters, which
+were then at Mondesheim, to consult on proper operations; the result
+was, that the duke and prince Lewis should join armies, and command each
+day alternately, and that prince Eugene should head a separate army and
+repair towards Philipsburg, to defend the passage of the Rhine, the
+lines of Stolhoffen, and the country of Wirtenberg.
+
+The two armies joined at Westerstretton, thence proceeded by easy
+marches towards Donawert, between which and Scellenberg the enemy was
+encamped. Fatigued as they were, the duke made them pass over a little
+river and endeavour to force the intrenchments; which enterprize
+succeeded, notwithstanding all the disadvantages the confederate armies
+were in, and the others were obliged to retire with great precipitation,
+many of whom were drowned in endeavouring to pass the Danube.
+
+In this action was our young soldier unlisted, and had the glory to be
+signalized by two remarkable accidents; one was, that pressing among the
+foremost in this hazardous attempt, he had his hat taken off by a cannon
+ball; and the other was, that seeing a standard about to be taken by the
+enemy, the person who carried it happening to be kill'd, he ran among
+those who were carrying it away, and being seconded by some others,
+retrieved that badge of English honour; and as this was done in sight of
+the duke, he rode up to him directly and presented it to him. Take it
+for your pains, cried he, you have ventured hard, and well deserve the
+prize. There was no time for thanks; the duke, who was almost every
+where at once, was immediately gone where he found his presence
+necessary, and Horatio returned to take the place of the dead cornet,
+doubly animated by the encouragement he had received.
+
+This victory opening a way into the elector of Bavaria's dominions, that
+poor country was terribly ravaged, no less than 300 towns, villages and
+castles being utterly consumed by a detachment of horse and dragoons the
+duke sent for that purpose. Some old officers told Horatio that now
+would be the time to make his fortune if he went with these squadrons,
+there being many rich things which would fall to the share of the
+plunderers; to which he answered, that he came to fight for the honour
+of his country, and not to rob for its disgrace. This they laughed at,
+and endeavoured to make him sensible, that the taking away an enemy's
+treasure was to take away their strength; but all they could say was
+ineffectual; he was not to be perswaded out of what he thought reason
+and justice: and this conversation being afterward repeated to the duke,
+he smil'd and said, he was yet too young to know the value of money.
+
+After this, prince Lewis of Baden dividing from the duke, in order to
+undertake the siege of Ingoldstadt, our young cornet attended his grace
+to the relief of prince Eugene, who expected to be attacked by the
+united army of Bavarians and French, then encamped near Hockstadt.
+
+It would be needless to give any description of this famous battle, few
+of my readers but must be acquainted with it, so I shall only say, that
+among the number of those few prisoners the French had to boast of in
+attonement for so great a defeat, was the young brave Horatio, who fell
+to the lot of the baron de la Valiere, nephew to the marquis of Sille.
+This nobleman being extremely taken with his person and behaviour,
+treated him in the politest manner; and tho' he carried him with him
+into France, assured him, that it was more for the pleasure of
+entertaining him there than any other consideration. Horatio was not
+much afflicted at this misfortune, because it gave him an opportunity of
+seeing a country he had heard so much commended, and also to make
+himself master of a language, which, tho' he understood, he spoke but
+imperfectly.
+
+The baron was not only one of the most gallant, but also one of the best
+humoured men in the world; he spared nothing during the whole time they
+tarried in his quarters, nor in their journey to Paris, which might
+contribute to make his prisoner easy under his present circumstances;
+and among other things, often said to him, if you and some others have
+fallen under the common chance of war, you have yet the happiness of
+knowing your army in general has been victorious, and that, there are
+infinitely a greater number of ours who, against their will, must see
+England, than, there are of yours conducted into France.
+
+On their arrival, Horatio wrote an account to Dorilaus of all had
+happened to him, not doubting but he would use his interest to have him
+either mentioned when there should come an exchange of prisoners, or
+that he would randsom him himself; but receiving no answer, he concluded
+his letter, by some accident, had miscarried, and sent another, but that
+meeting the same fate as the former, he wrote a third, accompanied with
+one to his sister directed to the boarding-school, where he imagined she
+still was: to this last, after some time, he had the following return
+from the governess:
+
+SIR,
+
+'A letter directed for miss Louisa coming to
+my house, I was in debate with myself
+what to do with it, that young lady having been
+gone from me last September, since which time
+I have never heard any thing of her:--at last I
+sent it to Dorilaus's country seat by a messenger,
+who brought it to me again, with intelligence
+that he was gone with some friends into the north
+of Ireland, and that it was probable they had
+taken miss with them:--I then thought proper
+to open it, believing she had no secrets I might
+not be entrusted with, and finding it came from
+you, could do no less than give you this information
+to prevent your being under any surprize
+for not receiving answers to your letters. I am
+sorry to find by yours that you have had such ill
+success in your first campaign; but would not
+have you be cast down, since you need not doubt
+but on the return of Dorilaus you will have remittances
+for your ransom, or whatever else you
+may have occasion for.'
+
+_I am_, SIR,
+_Your most humble and obedient Servant,_
+
+A. TRAINWELL.
+
+This letter made him perfectly contented; he had no reason to question
+the continuance of Dorilaus's goodness to him, nor that he should attend
+this new proof of it any longer than the return of that gentleman to
+England should make him know the occasion he now had for it. He
+therefore had no anxious thoughts to interrupt the pleasures the place
+he was in afforded in such variety; he was every evening with the baron,
+either at court, the opera, the comedy, or some other gay scene of
+entertainment; was introduced to the best company; and his young heart,
+charm'd with the politeness and gallantry of that nation, and the little
+vanity to which a person of such early years is incident, being
+flattered with the complaisance he was treated with, gave him in a short
+time a very strong affection for them; but there was yet another and
+more powerful motive which rendered his captivity not only pleasing, but
+almost destroyed in him an inclination ever to see his native
+country again.
+
+The baron de la Valiere had long been passionately in love with a young
+lady, who was one of the maids of honour to king James's queen: he went
+almost every day to St. Germains, in order to prosecute his addresses,
+and frequently took Horatio with him. The motive of his first
+introducing him to that court was, perhaps, the vanity of shewing him
+that no reverse of fate could make the French regardless of what was due
+to royalty, since the Chevalier St. George seem'd to want no requisite
+of majesty but the power; but he afterwards found the pleasure he took
+in those visits infinitely surpassed what he could have expected, and
+that his heart had an attachment, which made him no sooner quit that
+palace than he would ask with impatience when they should go thither
+again. The baron had a great deal of penetration; and as those who feel
+the power of love in themselves can easily perceive the progress it
+makes in others, a very few visits confirmed him that Horatio had found
+something there more attractive than all he could behold elsewhere: nor
+was he long at a loss to discover, among the number or beauties which
+composed the trains of the queen and princess, which of them it was that
+had laid his prisoner under a more lasting captivity than war had done.
+
+Princess Louisa Maria Teresa, daughter of the late king James, was then
+but in her thirteenth year; the ladies who attended her were all of them
+much of the same age; and to shew the respect the French had for this
+royal family, tho' in misfortunes, were also the daughters of persons
+whose birth and fortune might have done honour to the service of the
+greatest empress in the world; nor were any of them wanting in those
+perfections which attract the heart beyond the pomp of blood or titles;
+but she who had influenced that of our Horatio, was likewise in the
+opinion of those, who felt not her charms in the same degree he did,
+allowed to excel her fair companions in every captivating grace, and to
+yield in beauty to none but the princess herself, who was esteemed a
+Prodigy. This amiable lady was called Charlotta de Palfoy, only daughter
+to the baron of that name; and having from her most early years
+discovered a genius above what is ordinarily found in her sex, had been
+educated by her indulgent parents in such a manner, as nature left
+nothing for want of the improvements of art; yet did not all the
+accomplishments, she was mistress of give her the least air of
+haughtiness; on the contrary, there was a certain sweetness of temper in
+her which gave a double charm to every thing she said or did: she was
+all affability, courtesy and chearfulness; she could not therefore avoid
+treating so agreeable a stranger as Horatio with all imaginable marks of
+civility; but she had been a very small time acquainted with him before
+her liking ripened into a kind of tenderness little inferior to what he
+was possessed of for her; and tho' both were then too young to be able
+to judge of the nature of this growing inclination, yet they found they
+loved without knowing to what end.
+
+As both the Chevalier St. George and the princess his sister were
+instructed in the English language, and besides many of their court were
+natives of Great Britain, whose loyalty had made them follow the exil'd
+monarch, the French belonging to them had also an ambition to speak in
+the same dialect: mademoiselle Charlotta being but lately come among
+them had not yet attained the proper accent, any more than Horatio had
+that of the French; so they agreed that to improve each other in the
+different languages, he should always speak to her in French, and she
+should answer him in English. This succeeded not only for the purpose it
+was intended, but likewise drew on a greater intimacy between them than
+might otherwise have happened, at least in so short a time.
+
+The baron having a real friendship for Horatio, rejoiced to find he had
+so powerful an attachment to continue among them, and without taking any
+notice how far he saw into his sentiments, encouraged his visits at St.
+Germains all he could. Thus indulged in every thing he wished, he began
+insensibly to lose all desires of returning to England, and receiving no
+letters either from Dorilaus or his sister, was as it were weaned from
+that affection he had formerly bore to them, and in the room of that the
+new friendships he was every day contracting took up his mind.
+
+He was indeed used with so much love and respect by people in the most
+eminent stations, to whom the baron had introduced him, that it would
+have been ungrateful in him not to have returned it with the greatest
+good-will. Expressing one day some surprize at being so far forgotten by
+his friends in England, de la Valiere told him that he would not have
+him look on himself as any other than a guest in France, and that if he
+chose to quit that country, he should not only be at his liberty to
+return to England whenever he pleased, but also should be furnished with
+a sum sufficient for the expences of his journey; but added, that the
+offer he now made of depriving himself of so agreeable a companion was a
+piece of self-denial, than which there could not be a greater proof of a
+disinterested regard.
+
+Horatio replied in the manner this generosity demanded, and said, that
+if there was any thing irksome to him in France, it was only his
+inability of returning the favours he had received: believe me, sir,
+pursued he, were I master of a fortune sufficient to put me above the
+necessity of receiving the obligations I now do, it would not be in the
+power of all I left in England to prevail on me to return;--it is here,
+and in the society of that company I at present, thro' your means,
+enjoy, that I would wish to pass my whole life.
+
+The baron then told him he would find a way to make all things easy to
+him, and accordingly went the same day to monsieur the prince of Conti,
+to whom he gave such an advantageous description of the courage and
+accomplishments of the English cornet, and the inclination he had to
+stay among them, that his highness told the baron, that he might
+acquaint him from him, that if he were willing to serve under him he
+should have a commission; or, if he rather chose a civil employment, he
+would use his interest to procure him such a one as might afford both
+honour and profit.
+
+This the baron did not fail to communicate immediately to Horatio, who,
+charm'd with the generosity both of the one and the other, broke out
+into the utmost encomiums of that nation:--sure, said he, the French are
+a people born to inspire and instruct virtue and benevolence to all the
+kingdoms in the world! After the first raptures of his gratitude were
+over, being pressed by the baron to let him know which of the prince's
+offers he would chuse to accept; alas! replied he, this is a kind of an
+unfortunate dilemma I am in;--my inclinations are for the army, and it
+would be the height of my ambition to serve under such generals as the
+French; but it would be unnatural in me to draw my sword against the
+land which gave me being: O would to God! continued he, there were an
+opportunity for me to do it in any other cause! how gladly would I leave
+the best part of my blood to shew the sense I have of the generosity I
+have experienced.
+
+The baron had nothing to offer in opposition to a sentiment which he
+found had so much of honour in it, and therefore acquainted the prince
+that he chose to accept of his highness's favour in a civil employment;
+on which he was ordered to attend his levee the next day.
+
+His good friend accompanied him, and having presented him with the forms
+usual on such occasions, the prince received him very graciously, and
+was pleased to ask him several questions concerning the government of
+England at that time, the battle in which he had been taken, and many
+other things, to all which the young Horatio answered with so much
+discretion and politeness, as made the prince say to the baron, you have
+not flattered this gentleman in your description of him; for tho' I
+believe your friendship ready enough to give a just idea of him, yet, I
+allure you, his own behaviour is his best recommendation, and well
+entitles him to more than I find it in my power to do for him at
+present. I have been thinking for you, sir, continued he, turning to
+Horatio, and imagine that the employment I have found you will not be
+disagreeable to you:--one of the gentlemen of the bed-chamber to the
+Chevalier St. George being dead, there is a vacancy, which I will make
+interest shall be filled by no other than yourself;--you seem to be much
+of the same age with him, and I dare say he will be extremely pleased in
+the choice I make of you to be near him:--it is not indeed, added he, a
+place of so much advantage as I could wish, but there is a handsome
+pension annexed to it, which, with the honour, will, I believe, content
+you till something better presents itself.
+
+From the first mention the prince made of the post he had found for him,
+the heart of Horatio leap'd in his breast with an agitation he had never
+felt before: the thoughts of living at St. Germains in the same palace
+with mademoiselle Charlotta so transported him, that he scarce knew what
+he said; and the thanks he gave the prince were expressed with such
+hyperboles of gratitude, as made his highness think he had a higher idea
+of the employment than it indeed deserved; but the baron who knew the
+motive, and could not help smiling within himself, to prevent any other
+from suspecting it, however, told the prince, that it was not to be
+wondered at that he testified so high a satisfaction, since he was now
+to serve a family he had by nature a strong attachment to, and at the
+same time continue in a country he liked much better than his own.
+
+Horatio by this time having a little recovered himself, and sensible he
+had gone rather too far, seconded what the baron had said, and no more
+observations were made on it.
+
+That same evening, the prince having made it his request, was Horatio
+permitted to kiss the hand of the Chevalier St. George, and the ensuing
+day took possession of the apartment appropriated to the office
+bestowed on him.
+
+After having received the congratulations of a whole court, who
+testified a great deal of satisfaction in having him among them, and
+paid his compliments in a particular manner to mademoiselle Charlotta,
+he took abundance of pleasure in viewing all the apartments of a palace
+famous for the birth of one of the greatest monarchs of the age, and for
+being the asylum of the distrest royal family of England: when his
+attendance on his master gave him leisure, he frequently passed many
+hours together in a closet, where he was told the late king James used
+to retire every day to pray for the prosperity of that people who had
+abjur'd him. Young as Horatio was, and gay by nature, he sometimes loved
+to indulge the most serious meditations; and this place, as well as the
+condition of those he served, remonstrating to him the instability of
+all human greatness, he made this general reflection, that there was
+nothing truly valuable but virtue, because the owner could be deprived
+of that only by himself, and not by either the fraud or force of others.
+
+Indeed the behaviour of all the persons who composed this court could
+not but inspire those who saw it with sentiments of the nature I have
+described: the queen herself, tho' of too great a soul to shew any marks
+of repining at her fate, was never seen to smile: even the Chevalier St.
+George and princess had both of them a very serious air, which denoted
+they had reflections more befitting their condition than their years;
+and those about them being most of them persons who had left the
+greatest part of their fortunes as well as kindred either in England,
+Scotland or Ireland, had their own misfortunes as well as that of the
+royal cause to lament, and therefore could not but wear a dejection in
+their countenances: in fine, every thing he saw seem'd an emblem of
+fallen majesty, except on drawing-room nights, and then indeed the
+splendor of Marli and Versailles shone forth at St. Germains in the
+persons of those who came to pay their compliments, among whom were not
+only the Dauphine and all the princes of the blood, but even the grand
+monarch himself thought it not beneath his dignity to give this proof of
+his respect once or twice every week.
+
+This way of living, and the company he was now associated with, gave
+Horatio a manly way of thinking much sooner than otherwise perhaps he
+might have had, yet did not rob him of his vivacity: some of the queen's
+women, and the young ladies about the princess, particularly
+mademoiselle Charlotta, had a thousand sprightly entertainments among
+themselves, into which he, the baron de la Valiere, and some others who
+had attachments at that court, were always admitted.
+
+But now the time arrived in which he was to lose the society of that
+valuable friend; the campaign was ready to open, and he was obliged to
+head his troops and follow the marshals de Villars and Marsin
+into Flanders.
+
+All the conversation turning now on war, those martial inclinations,
+which love and the season of the year had occasioned to lye dormant for
+a while in the bosom of Horatio, now revived in him: he embraced the
+baron at taking leave of him with tears of affection and regret: how
+cruel is my fate, said he, to make me of a nation at enmity with yours,
+and that I can neither fight for you nor against you!
+
+Well, my dear Horatio, replied the other, France may hereafter have
+occasion to employ your arm where there are no ties of duty to restrain
+you:--in the mean time, continued he with a smile, softer engagements
+may employ your thoughts;--mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy is a
+conquest worth pursuing.
+
+This was the first hint the baron had ever given him of the discovery he
+had made of his sentiments, and it so much the more surprized him that
+he was told by another what he was not certain of himself:--he knew
+indeed the society of that young lady gave him infinite satisfaction,
+and that he was restless when absent from her; but these words, and the
+air with which they were spoke, shewed him more of his own heart than he
+had before examined into;--he blush'd excessively, and made no answer;
+on which, you have no cause, resumed the baron, to be asham'd of the
+passion you are inspired with, nor troubled at my discovery of it:--I
+assure you I have seen it a long time; and tho' you never honoured me
+with your confidence in that point, have taken all opportunities of
+doing justice to your merit in the conversations I have had with
+mademoiselle, who I had the satisfaction to find was not displeased with
+what I said upon that head; and I flatter myself with having a good
+account of the progress you have made at my return.
+
+I have too much experience of your friendship and goodness to me,
+replied Horatio, not to assure myself of your doing me all manner of
+kind offices;--I have indeed so great a regard for that lady you
+mention, that I know none of her sex who I so much wish should think
+well of me, yet is she utterly ignorant of the sentiments I have for
+her; and if I am possessed of that passion which they call love, which I
+protest I am not certain of myself, I have never made the least
+declaration that can give her room to imagine any such thing.
+
+The baron laughed heartily to hear him speak in this manner, and then
+told him there was no need of words to make known an inclination of that
+kind;--it was to be seen in every look and motion of the person inspired
+with it.--Mademoiselle de Palfoy, continued he, young as she is, I dare
+answer has penetration enough to see the conquest she has made, but has
+not yet learned artifice enough to conceal that she is at the same time
+subdued herself;--and if you would take the advice of a person who has
+some experience in these affairs, you will endeavour to engage her to a
+confession before too much observation on the behaviour of others to
+their lovers, shall teach her those imperious airs by which women
+frequently torment the heart that adores them, tho' their own perhaps in
+doing so feels an equal share.
+
+Horatio, who had seen something like this between the baron and his
+mistress, found a great deal of reason in what he said, and promised to
+be guided by him, especially as he had encouragement enough to hope, by
+all the treatment he had found from Charlotta, that a declaration of
+love from him would not offend her beyond forgiveness.
+
+From that time forward he therefore began to think in what manner he
+should first disclose the tender secret to the dear object of his
+affections: when absent from her he easily found words, but when
+present, that awe which is inseparable from a real passion struck him
+entirely dumb; and whenever he was about to open his mouth to utter what
+he intended, he had neither words nor voice; and tho' he saw her every
+day, was often alone with her, and had opportunity enough to have
+revealed himself, yet could he not get the better of his timidity for a
+great while, and perhaps should have been much longer under this cruel
+constraint, had not an accident favoured his wishes beyond what he could
+have hoped, or even imagined, and by shewing him part of what passed in
+her soul, emboldened him to unfold what his own laboured with on
+her account.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VI.
+
+_Describes the masquerade at the dutchess of Main's; the characters and
+intrigues of several persons of quality who were there; the odd
+behaviour of a lady in regard to Horatio, and Charlotta's
+sentiments upon it_.
+
+The dutchess of Main was one of the gayest and most gallant ladies at
+the court of Lewis XIV. she was for ever entertaining the nobility with
+balls, masquerades, or concerts; and as she was of the blood royal, and
+highly respected not only on that score, but by the distinguish'd favour
+of the king, the Chevalier St. George, and the princess his sister,
+frequently honoured her assemblies with their presence.
+
+To divert those ladies whose husbands were gone to Flanders, as she
+said, she now proposed a masquerade; and the day being fixed, it was the
+sole business of the young and gay to prepare habits such as were most
+suitable to their inclinations, or, as they thought, would be most
+advantageous to their persons.
+
+The Chevalier St. George was dressed in a rich Grecian habit of
+sky-coloured velvet embroidered with large silver stars: the top of his
+cap was encompassed with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, saphirs, amythists,
+and other precious stones of various colours, set in rows in the exact
+form of a rainbow: a light robe of crimson taffaty, fringed with silver,
+was fastened by a knot of jewels on his left shoulder, and crossed his
+back to the right side, where it was tucked into a belt of the finest
+oriental pearls, and thence hung down and trail'd a little on the
+ground: in fine, there was nothing that exceeded the magnificence and
+eloquence of his appearance, or was in any measure equal to it in the
+whole assembly, except that of the princess Louisa his sister.
+
+She would needs go as a Diana, and obliged all her ladies to be habited
+like nymphs: no idea of this goddess, inspired either by the painter or
+the poet's art, can in any degree come up to that which the fight of
+this amiable princess gave every beholder. Conformable to the character
+she assumed, she had a large crescent of diamonds on her head, which had
+no other covering than a great quantity of the finest hair in the world,
+partly braided with pearls and emeralds, and partly flowing in ringlets
+down on her alabaster neck: her garments were silver tissue, white and
+shining as the moon on a clear frosty night; and being buttoned up a
+little at the bottom as for the conveniency of the chace, shewed great
+part of her fine proportioned ankle. In her hand she held an ivory bow,
+and an arrow of the same headed with gold; and on her shoulder was fixed
+a quiver curiously wrought and beset with jewels: her attendants, which
+were six in number, had their habits green, but made in the same fashion
+of the princess's, with bows and arrows in their hands, and quivers at
+their backs: all of them had their hair turned up under a caul of silver
+net, from which hung little tossels of pearl intermixed with diamonds.
+
+Next to this fair troop the duchess of Main herself attracted the
+attention of the assembly: she was habited like an Indian queen, with
+robes composed of feathers so artfully placed, that they represented a
+thousand different kind of birds and beasts, which, as she moved, seemed
+to have motion in themselves: on her head she had a lofty plume
+supported by a cap, and richly ornamented with precious stones; as were
+all her garments wherever the propriety of the fashion of them would
+give leave.
+
+The young mademoiselle de Bourbon, in the habit of a sea-nymph, and
+mademoiselle de Blois, in that of a Minerva, ornamented and decorated
+according to their several characters, had also their share of
+admiration.
+
+Nor did the marchionesses of Vallois and Lucerne, both in the garb of
+shepherdesses, serve as mere foils to those I have mentioned: there was
+something; even in this plainness that shewed the elegance of the
+wearer's taste.
+
+The prince of Conde, the dukes of Berry, Vendosine and Chartres, the
+young marquis de Montbausine, the counts de Chenille, de Ranbeau, and
+the baron de Roche, had all of them habits extremely rich and well
+fancied, as were many others of whom it would be too tedious to make
+particular mention, and be likewise digressive to the matter I take upon
+me to relate; I shall therefore only say, that there was not one person
+of either sex, who did not endeavour to set themselves forth to all
+possible advantage.
+
+Those gentlemen who attended the Chevalier St. George were at their
+liberty to appear in what habit they pleased: Horatio knowing his
+charming Charlotta was a nymph of the forest, chose to be a hunter, and
+was accordingly dressed in green, with a little cap on his head and a
+javelin in his hand, as Acteon is generally portrayed; and indeed had he
+studied what garb would have become him best, he could not have fixed on
+one more proper for that purpose.
+
+Fine madamoiselle de Sanserre at least thought him more worthy her
+regard than any of those, the richness of whose habits made her know
+were of a higher rank:--she took particular notice of him, made him
+dance with her, and said a thousand gallant things to him; but he could
+very well have dispensed with hearing them, and found little
+satisfaction in any thing that deprived him of entertaining his dear
+Charlotta, who he easily knew by her air and shape from all those who
+were habited in the same manner. As he doubted not, however, but the
+person who had thus singled him out was a lady of condition, he returned
+her civilities with a politeness which was natural to him, but which had
+received great improvements since his arrival in France. She was no less
+charm'd with his conversation than she had been with his person, and
+impatient to know who he was, made an offer of shewing him her face on
+condition he would pluck off his mask at the same time: but this he
+would by no means agree to, because still hoping to get rid of her, and
+have some discourse with mademoiselle Charlotta, he did not think proper
+he should be known by any other, who might perhaps make remarks on his
+behaviour; and therefore excused himself from complying with her desires
+in terms as obliging as the circumstance would admit.
+
+As she had displayed all her talents of wit and eloquence to engage him,
+she looked on the little curiosity she had been able to inspire in him
+as an affront, and vexed she had thrown away so much time on an
+insensible, as she called him, flung hastily away, and joining with some
+other company, left him at liberty to pursue his inclinations.
+
+This lady had been a royal mistress, but not having the good fortune to
+be made a mother, was not honoured with any title; her being forsaken by
+the king, who indeed had few amours of any long continuance, did not in
+the least abate the good opinion she had of her beauty; and to fee
+herself followed by a train of lovers being the supreme pleasure of her
+life, she spared nothing to attract and engage: whenever she failed in
+this expectation it was a severe mortification; but her vanity and the
+gaity of her humour would not suffer it to prey upon her spirits for
+above a minute, and she diverted the shock of a rebuff in one place by
+new attempts to conquer in another; therefore it is probable thought no
+more of Horatio after she had turned from him.
+
+He now carefully avoided all that might interrupt his wishes, and seeing
+Charlotta had just broke off some conversation she had been entertained
+with, made what haste he could to prevent her from being
+re-engaged:--She immediately knew him; and as their mutual innocence
+made them perfectly free in expressing themselves to each other, she
+told him she was glad he was come; that they would keep together the
+whole masquerade, provided he did not think it a confinement, to prevent
+her being persecuted with the impertinencies of some people there, who
+she found thought a masque a kind of sanction for saying any thing.
+
+It is not to be doubted but Horatio gave her all the assurances that
+words could form, of feeling the most perfect pleasure in her society,
+and that he should not; without the extremest reluctance, find himself
+obliged to abandon the happiness she offered him to any other person in
+the company: to recompence this complaisance, as she called it, she gave
+him a brief detail of the characters of as many as she knew thro' their
+habits; and in doing this discovered a sweet impartiality and love of
+truth, which was no small addition to her other charms. She blamed the
+baroness de Guiche for not being able to return the affection of a
+husband who had married her with an inconsiderable fortune, and had
+since she had been his wife pardoned a thousand miscarriages in her
+conduct:--she praised the virtue of mademoiselle de Mareau, who being at
+fifteen the bride of a man of seventy, behaved to him with a tenderness,
+and exact conformity to his will, which, if owing alone to duty, was not
+to be distinguished from inclination:--she expressed a concern that the
+gaity of the dutchess of Vendome gave the world any room for censure,
+and highly condemned the duke for being guilty of actions which had made
+her sometimes give into parties of pleasure by way of retaliation:--but
+she was more severe on the indecorum of mademoiselle de Renville, who
+being known for the mistress of the duke of Chartres, and that she was
+supported by him, was fond of appearing in all public places. She could
+not help testifying a good deal of surprize, that any woman who
+pretended to virtue would admit her into their assemblies: not but she
+said the case of that lady was greatly to be pitied, who being high-born
+and bred had been reduced to the lowest exigencies of life, and from
+which to be relieved she had only consented to assist the looser
+pleasures of the amorous duke; but, added she, I would not methinks have
+her seem to glory in her shame, and in a manner of life which her
+misfortunes alone can render excusable; nor can I approve of the
+indulgence her mistaken triumph meets with, because it may not only
+destroy all notions of regret in herself for what her necessities oblige
+her to, but also make others, who have not the same pretence, find a
+kind of sanction for their own errors:--vice, said she, ought at lead to
+blush, and hide itself as much as possible from view, left by being
+tolerated in public it should become a fashion.
+
+Horatio was so much taken up with admiring the justness of her
+sentiments, that awed by them, as it were, he could not yet, tho'
+mask'd, make any discovery of his own: she was about entering into a
+discourse with him concerning the first motives which had rendered some
+persons she pointed out to him unhappy in the marriage-state, which
+perhaps might have given him an opportunity for explaining himself, when
+a lady richly dress'd came up to them, and giving Horatio a sudden pluck
+by the arm; villain! cried she. Madam, returned he, strongly amazed. Is
+the trifling conversation of Sanserre, resumed she, or this little
+creature to be preferred to a woman of that quality you have dared to
+abuse?--but this night has convinced her of your perfidy:--she sends you
+this, continued she, giving him a slap over the face as hard as she
+could, and be assured it is the last present you will ever receive
+from her.
+
+She had no sooner uttered these words than she flew quick as lightning
+out of the room, leaving Horatio in such a consternation both at what
+she said and did, as deprived him even of the thought of following her,
+or using any means to solve this riddle.--He was in a deep musing when
+mademoiselle Charlotta, possessed that moment with a passion she till
+then was ignorant of, said to him; I find, Horatio, you have wonderfully
+improved the little time you have been in France, to gain you a
+multiplicity of mistresses; but I am sorry my inadvertency in talking to
+a man so doubly pre-engaged, should cause me to be reckoned among the
+number. In speaking this she turned away with a confusion which was
+visible in her air, and the scarlet colour with which her neck was dyed.
+By heaven! cried he, in the utmost agitation, I know so little the
+meaning of what I have just now heard, that it seems rather a dream than
+a reality. O the deceiver! returned she, a little slackening her pace,
+will you pretend to have given no occasion for the reproach you have
+received:--great must have been your professions to draw on you a
+resentment such as I have been witness of;--but I shall take care to
+give the lady, whoever she is, no farther room for jealousy on my
+account; and as for mademoiselle Sanserre, I believe the stock of
+reputation she has will not suffer much from the addition of one more
+favourite to the number the world has already given her.
+
+The oddness of this adventure, and the vexation he was in to find
+Charlotta seemed incensed against him for a crime of which he knew
+himself so perfectly innocent, destroyed at once all the considerations
+his timidity had inspired, and aiming only to be cleared in her
+opinion;--if there be faith in man, cried he, I know nothing of what I
+am accused: no woman but your charming self ever had the power to give
+me an uneasy moment;--it is you alone have taught me what it is to love,
+and as I never felt, I never pretended to that passion for any other.
+
+Me! replied Charlotta, extremely confused; If it were so, you take a
+strange time and method to declare it in;--but I know of no concern I
+have in your amours, your gratitude, or your perfidy; and you had better
+follow and endeavour to appease your enraged mistress, than lose your
+time on me in vain excuses.
+
+Ah mademoiselle! cried he, how unjust and cruel are you, and how severe
+my fate, which not content with the despair my real unworthiness of
+adoring you has plunged me in, but also adds to it an imputation of
+crimes my soul most detests:--I never heard even the name of the lady
+you mentioned till your lips pronounced it; and if it be she I danced
+with, I protest I never saw her face: and as for the meaning of the
+other lady's treatment of me, it must certainly be occasioned by some
+mistake, having offered nothing to any of the sex that could justify
+such a proceeding.
+
+All the time he was speaking Charlotta was endeavouring to compose
+herself.--The hurry of spirits she had been in at the apprehensions of
+Horatio's having any amorous engagements, shewing her how much interest
+she took in him, made her blush at having discovered herself to him so
+far; and tho' she could not be any more tranquil, yet she thought she
+would for the future be more prudent; to this end she now affected to
+laugh at the dilemma into which she told him he had brought himself, by
+making addresses in two places at the same time, and advised him in a
+gay manner to be more circumspect.
+
+Thus was this beautiful lady, by her jealousy, convinced of her
+sensibility; and as difficult as Horatio found it to remove the one, he
+found his consolation in the discovery of the other.
+
+From the time he had been disengaged from mademoiselle Sanferre, he had
+retired with Charlotta to one corner of the room; and the greatest part
+of the company being in a grand dance, the others were taken up in
+looking on them, so that our young lovers had the opportunity of talking
+to each other without being taken much notice of; but several of the
+masquers now drawing nearer that way, prevented Horatio from saying any
+thing farther at that time, either to clear his innocence or prosecute
+his passion; and Charlotta, glad to avoid all discourse on a subject she
+thought herself but ill prepared to answer, joined some ladies, with
+whom she stayed till the ball was near concluded.
+
+Horatio after this withdrew to a window, and flickered behind a large
+damask curtain, threw himself on a sopha he found there, and ruminated
+at full on the adventure had happened to him, in which he found a
+mixture of joy and discontent: the behaviour of Charlotta assured him he
+was not indifferent to her; but then the thoughts that he appeared in
+her eyes as ungrateful, inconstant and perfidious, made him tremble,
+left the idea of what he seemed to be should utterly erase that
+favourable one she had entertained of what he truly was. By what means
+he should prove his sincerity he knew not; and as he was utterly
+unpracticed in the affairs of love, lamented the absence of his good
+friend the baron de la Valiere, who he thought might have been, able to
+give him same advice, how to proceed.
+
+He remained buried, as it were, in these cogitations, when a lady
+plucked back the curtain which screen'd him, and without seeing any one
+was there, threw herself on the sopha almost in his lap.--Oh heaven!
+cried she, perceiving what she had done, and immediately rose; but
+Horatio starting up, would not suffer her to quit the place, telling
+her, that since she chose it, it was his business to retire, and leave
+her to indulge whatever meditations had brought her thither. She thank'd
+him in a voice which, by its trembling, testified her mind was in some
+very great disorder; and added, if your good nature, said she, be equal
+to your complaisance, you will do me the favour to desire a lady,
+dressed in pink and silver, with a white sattin scarf cross her
+shoulder, to come here directly:--you cannot, continued she, be mistaken
+in the person, because there is no other in the same habit. Tho' Horatio
+was very loth to engage himself in the lady's affairs, fearing to give a
+second umbrage to mademoiselle Charlotta, yet he knew not how to excuse
+granting so small a request, and therefore assured her of his
+compliance.
+
+Accordingly he sent his eyes in quest, which soon pointed out to him the
+person whom she had described: having delivered his message to her;
+Horatio! cried she, somewhat astonished, how came you employed in this
+errand? he knew her voice, and that it was mademoiselle de Coigney, the
+mistress of his friend the baron, on which he immediately told her how
+the lady had surprized him: she laughed heartily, and said no more but
+left him, and went to the window he had directed.
+
+For a long time he sought in vain for an opportunity of speaking to the
+object of his affections: she was still engaged either in dancing or in
+different parties; and as his eyes continually followed her, he easily
+perceived she purposely avoided him. A magnificent collation being
+prepared in a great drawing-room next to that in which the company were,
+they all went in to partake of it. The entertainment was served up on
+two large tables; but as every one was mask'd, and the vizards so
+contriv'd, that those who wore them could eat without plucking them off,
+they sat down promiscuously without ceremony or any distinction of
+degrees, none being obliged to know another in these disguises; only the
+attendants of the Chevalier St. George, and the princess Louisa, took
+care not to place themselves at the same they were, so by this means sat
+together; but a great number of others being mingled with them, no
+particular conversation could be expected.
+
+Supper being over, they all returned to the ballroom; and Horatio having
+contrived it so as to get next Charlotta, she could not refuse the offer
+he made her of his hand to lead her in; but as he was about saying
+something to her in a low voice, a man came hastily to him, and taking
+him a little on one side, presented him with a letter, and then retired
+with so much precipitation, that Horatio could neither ask from whom it
+came, nor well discern what sort of person it was that gave it him. He
+put it however in his pocket, designing to read it at more leisure, his
+curiosity for the contents not equalling his desire of entertaining
+mademoiselle Charlotta; but that young lady, whose jealousy received new
+fewel from this object, had slipt away before he could turn from the
+man, and had already mixed with a cluster of both sexes who had got into
+the room before them.
+
+Horatio finding all attempts to speak to her that night would be
+ineffectual, went back into the drawing-room where they supped, and
+where but few people remaining he might examine the letter with more
+freedom. He saw it had no superscription; but supposing the inside would
+give him some satisfaction, he broke it open hastily and found in it
+these lines.
+
+
+'Whether false or faithful still are you dear to
+me; and if I am in the least so to you,
+the treatment you received will be pardoned for
+the sake of the occasion:--I own that at a
+place where you might have been as particular as
+you pleased with me without suspicion, it enraged
+me to see you waste those precious moments
+with others which I flattered myself to have solely
+engrossed;--besides, the character of mademoiselle
+Sanserre is so well known, that I thought
+you would have avoided her of all others; yet
+had she forced herself upon you, sure you might
+afterwards have come to me, when I had given
+you so particular a description of the habit I
+should wear; but instead of making any excuse
+for a first transgression, you hurry to a second,
+and pay all your devoirs to another, whom indeed
+I knew not at that time, but am since informed
+she is one of the maids of honour to princess
+Louisa.--I must confess I had not resolution
+enough to suffer so cruel an injustice, and being
+too much overcome by my passion to resent it as
+I ought, I left the place, and desired our friend to
+do it for me.--I find she somewhat exceeded
+her commission, but you must forgive her, since
+it was her love for me:--I am now at her
+house, where I impatiently expect you--The
+baron is secure for some hours;--those we may
+pass together, if you still think there is any thing
+worth quitting the masquerade for, to be found
+in the arms of
+
+_Yours_, &c,
+
+_P.S._ If you now fail, no excuse hereafter shall
+ever plead your pardon.'
+
+
+This letter confirmed Horatio in the belief he had before, that he had
+been mistaken by the lady for some favorite person; but who the lady
+was, he was as much in the dark as ever; nor would he have given himself
+any trouble concerning it, if he had not hoped by that means to have
+retrieved the good opinion of Charlotta. He was however impatient to
+shew her the letter, as he doubted not but she had seen it delivered to
+him; but with all his assiduity he could not obtain one word in private
+during the masquerade; and when it was broke up, which was not till near
+morning, and they returned to St. Germains, it was impossible, because
+he knew she must be in the princess's chamber, as he in that of the
+Chevalier St. George: he was therefore obliged to content himself with
+the hope that the next day would be more favourable.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VII.
+
+_An explanation of the foregoing adventure, with a continuation of the
+intrigues of some French ladies, and the policy of mademoiselle Coigney
+in regard of her brother_.
+
+It cannot be supposed that either of our young lovers enjoyed much true
+repose that night, tho' the fatigue of the dance might naturally require
+it: the one did but just know herself a lover before she felt the worst
+torments of that passion in her jealousy; and the other having been
+compelled, as it were, to lay open his heart in order to convince his
+charmer it had no object but herself in view, knew not but his temerity
+in doing so might be imputed to him as no less a crime than that from
+which he attempted to be cleared: each had their different anxieties;
+but those of Horatio were the least severe, because thro' all the
+indignation of his mistress he saw marks of an affection, which he could
+not have flattered himself with if they had not been evident; and
+conscious of his innocence, doubted not but time would both explain that
+and reconcile the offended fair:--whereas Charlotta was far from being
+able to assure herself of her lover's fidelity: she could not conceive
+how, in the compass of one night, such a plurality of mistakes should
+happen to the same man, and trembled at the reflection that this man,
+who possibly was the falsest of his sex, should not only have made an
+impression on her heart, but also, by the concern she had so unwarily
+expressed, have reason to triumph in his conquest:--ashamed therefore of
+what she felt, and determined to make use of her utmost efforts to
+conceal it for the future, if not to conquer it, she thought to shun all
+occasions of seeing or speaking to this dangerous invader of her peace
+was the first step she ought to take; but how little is a heart,
+possessed of the passion her's was, capable of judging for itself, or
+maintaining any resolutions in prejudice of the darling object!--she had
+no sooner set it down as a rule to avoid him, than she began to wish for
+his presence, and contented herself with thinking she desired it only
+out of curiosity to hear what he would say, and to have an opportunity,
+by a rallying manner of behaviour, to destroy whatever conjectures he
+might have form'd in favour of his passion; but all this time she
+deceived herself, and in reality only longed for an interview with him,
+in hopes he would find means to justify himself. Horatio, who was
+impatient to attempt it, seeing her at a distance walking on the terrass
+with no other company than mademoiselle de Coigney, went immediately to
+join them, thinking that if the presence of this lady might be a bar to
+many things he wanted to say to Charlotta, it would be of service to him
+another way, by preventing her from making him any reproaches.
+
+As soon as he came near, I owe you little thanks, Horatio, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney laughing, for the interruption you gave me last
+night. In the multiplicity of those reflections which his own affairs
+had occasioned him, he had entirely forgot the lady in the window; and
+imagining some other accident had happened which should make him appear
+yet more guilty in the eyes of Charlotta, ask'd her, with some
+impatience, what she meant? don't you remember, answered she, that you
+brought me a message from a certain lady? Yes, madam, said he, and in
+that, thought I did no more than my duty obliged me to, as she seemed
+under some perplexity, which I supposed she was impatient to
+acquaint you with.
+
+You judged rightly, indeed, resumed de Coigney; but had you known how
+gladly I would have dispensed with the honour of her confidence, I dare
+answer you would have spared it me:--I'll tell you, my dear, pursued she
+turning to Charlotta, for the secrets of this lady are pretty universal;
+and I am certain that I have heard from no less than fifty different
+persons, that very affair she was in such a hurry to inform me of last
+night: you must needs have heard of the amour between madam la Boissy
+and the chevalier de Mourenbeau? frequently, replied Charlotta; her
+ridiculous jealousies of him have long been the jest of the whole court;
+and I never go to Marli or Versailles, but I am told of some new
+instance of it. And yet to relate a long story of her passion, and his
+ingratitude, said mademoiselle de Coigney, was I last night dragged into
+a dark corner, and deprived for an hour together of all the pleasures of
+the masquerade: it seems she had over-heard some gallant things between
+him and the daughter of the count de Granpree, and that gave her the
+occasion of running into a recapitulation of all the professions of
+constancy he had made to herself, the proofs she had given him of a too
+easy belief, and the little regard he now paid to her peace of mind.--I
+was obliged to affect a pity for her misfortunes, and gratitude for the
+trust she reposed in me, tho' neither the one or the other merited in
+reality any thing but contempt.
+
+One often suffers a good deal from one's complaisance this way, said
+Charlotta; and for my part there is nothing I would more carefully avoid
+than secrets of this nature; but you have not told me how far Horatio
+was accessary to bringing you into this trouble.
+
+He them said that he would save mademoiselle de Coigney the labour, and
+immediately related how the lady they were speaking of threw herself
+upon him, and afterwards enjoined him to deliver the message. But, added
+he, I think last night was one of the most unfortunate ones I have ever
+known, since, with all the care I could take, I was continually
+prevented by other people's concerns from prosecuting my own.--I was not
+only insulted and reproached for being mistaken for some other person,
+for it could happen no other way, but also soon after received a letter
+no less mysterious to me than the blow, which doubtless came from the
+same quarter: as there is no name subscribed, or if there were, I should
+look on myself as under no obligation of secrecy, I will beg leave to
+communicate it to you, ladies.
+
+With these words he took the letter out of his pocket and held it open
+between them: Charlotta conquered her impatience so far as not to take
+it out of his hand; but mademoiselle Coigney snatched it hastily,
+imagining she knew the hand; nor was she deceived in her conjecture: she
+had no sooner read it slightly over;--see here, mademoiselle Charlotta,
+said she, a new proof of madam de Olonne's folly, and my brother's
+continued attachment to that vile woman.
+
+Charlotta then looked over the letter with a satisfaction that was
+visible in her countenance; and as soon as she had done, then it is
+plain, said she, that Horatio was mistaken for monsieur de Coigney: but
+how it happened so is what I cannot conceive.
+
+I can easily solve the riddle, replied mademoiselle de Coigney: I heard
+my brother say he intended to wear a hunting dress at the masquerade;
+but being disappointed of going to it, by his most christian majesty
+sending for him to Marli, I suppose too suddenly for him to give notice
+of his enforced absence to madame d' Olonne, and Horatio by chance
+appearing in the same habit which he had doubtless told her he would be
+in, and their sizes being pretty much alike, she might very well be
+deceived, and also have a seeming reason for the jealousy and rage her
+letter testifies.
+
+Nothing could exceed the joy Horatio felt at this unexpected
+eclaircisement of his innocence, which was also doubled by the pleasure
+which, in spight of all her endeavours to restrain it, he saw sparkle in
+the eyes of his beloved Charlotta. Neither of them, however, had any
+opportunity of expressing their sentiments at this time, de Coigney
+continuing with them till dinner, when they all separated to go to their
+respective tables.
+
+The next day afforded what in this he had sought in vain:--he found her
+alone in her own apartment; and having broke the ice, was now grown bold
+enough to declare his passion, with all the embellishments necessary to
+render it successful: mademoiselle Charlotta knew very well what became
+the decorum of her sex, and was too nice an observer of it not to behave
+with all the reserve imaginable on this occasion. All the freedom she
+had been accustomed to treat him with, while ignorant of his or her own
+inclination, was now banished from her words and actions, and she
+gravely told him, that if he were in earnest, it was utterly improper
+for her to receive any professions of that kind without the approbation
+of monsieur de Palfoy her father; and as there was but very little
+probability of his granting it, on many considerations, she would wish
+him to quell in its infancy an affection which might otherwise be
+attended with misfortunes to them both.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that in this she spoke no more than what her
+reason suggested: she knew very well that her father had much higher
+expectations in view for her, and that on the least suspicion of her
+entertaining a foreigner, and one who seemed to have no other dependance
+than that of favour, she should be immediately removed from St.
+Germains; so that it behoved her to be very circumspect in any
+encouragement she gave him: but tho' she spoke to him in this manner, it
+was not, as her actions afterwards fully demonstrated, that she really
+designed what she said should make him desist his pretensions, but that
+he should be careful how he let any one into the secret of his heart.
+She foresaw little prospect of their love ever being crown'd with
+success, yet found too much pleasure in indulging it to be able to wish
+an extinction of it, either in him or herself; and in spight of all the
+distance she assumed, he easily perceived that whatever difficulties he
+should have to struggle with in the prosecution of his addresses, they
+would not be owing to her cruelty. They were both of them too young to
+attend much to consequences; and as securing the affections of each
+other was what each equally aimed at, neither of them reflected how
+terrible a separation would be, and how great the likelihood that it
+must happen they knew not how soon.
+
+As the remonstrances of mademoiselle Charlotta had all the effect she
+intended them for on Horatio, he so well commanding himself that no
+person in the world, except the baron de la Valiere, who was absent, had
+the least intimation of his passion, they might probably have lived a
+long time together in the contentment they now enjoyed, had not an
+accident, of which neither of them could have any notion, put a stop
+to it.
+
+Horatio thought no more on the affair of madame de Olonne and monsieur
+de Coigney, from the time he had been cleared of having any concern with
+that lady, yet was that night's adventure productive of what he looked
+upon as the greatest misfortune could befal him. But to make this matter
+conspicuous to the reader, it is necessary to give a brief detail of the
+circumstances that led to it.
+
+This lady, who was wife to the baron de Olonne, was one of the most
+beautiful, and most vicious women in the kingdom; she entertained a
+great number of lovers; but there was none more attached to her, or more
+loved by her than young monsieur de Coigney: he had for a long time
+maintained a criminal correspondence with her, to the great trouble of
+all his friends, who endeavoured all they could, but in vain, to wean
+him from her: he had lately a recounter with one of her former lovers,
+which had like to have cost him his life; and it was with great
+difficulty, and as much as the relations on both sides could do, by
+representing to the king that they were set upon by street-robbers, that
+they avoided the punishment the law inflicts on duelists. De Coigney was
+but just recovered of the hurts he had received, when, so far from
+resolving to quit the occasion of them, he made an appointment to meet
+her at the masquerade:--they had described to each other the habit they
+intended to wear, when, as he was preparing for the rendezvous, an
+express came from the king, commanding his immediate attendance at
+Marli, where the court then was: this was occasioned by old monsieur de
+Coigney, who having, by some spies he kept about his son, received
+intelligence of this assignation, had no other way to disappoint it than
+by the royal authority, which he easily procured, as he was very much in
+favour with his majesty; and had laid the matter before him.
+
+The person who came with the mandate had orders not to quit the presence
+of young Coigney, but bring him directly; by which means he was deprived
+of all opportunity of sending his excuses to madame de Olonne, who
+coming to the masquerade big with expectation of seeing her favourite
+lover, and finding him, as she imagined, engaged with others, and wholly
+regardless of herself, was seized with the most violent jealousy; and
+not able to continue in a place where she had received so manifest a
+slight, desired mademoiselle de Freville, her confidant and companion,
+to upbraid him with his inconstancy; which request she complied with in
+the manner already related, and which gave mademoiselle Charlotta such
+matter of disquiet.
+
+The amorous madame de Olonne, however, having given vent to the first
+transports of her fury, could not hinder those of a softer nature from
+returning with the same violence as ever; and for the gratification of
+them wrote that letter which Horatio received, and occasioned afterward
+the explanation of the whole affair, which explanation he then thought
+fortunate for him; but by a whimsical effect of chance it proved utterly
+the reverse.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney, who had the most tender affection for her
+brother, and passionately wished to make him break off all engagements
+with a woman of madame de Olonne's character, and who might possibly
+bring him under many inconveniencies, took the hint which mademoiselle
+Charlotta unthinkingly gave, by telling her how she had been affronted
+on his account by de Freville, of putting something into his head which
+might probably succeed better than all the attempts had hitherto been
+practised to make him quit his present criminal amour.
+
+The first time she saw mademoiselle de Freville, she told her as a great
+secret that her brother was fallen in love with mademoiselle Charlotta,
+and that she believed it would be a match, for he had already engaged
+friends to sollicit monsieur de Palfoy on that score. This she knew would
+be carried directly to madame de Olonne, and doubted not but it would so
+increase her jealous rage, that all he could say in his defence would
+pass for nothing: she also added, that he was in the masquerade that
+night, tho' for some private reasons best known to himself, said she, he
+had ordered his people to give out he was gone to Marli.
+
+De Freville, who was the creature of madame de Olonne, no sooner
+received this intelligence than she flew with it to her, as mademoiselle
+de Coigney had imagined: neither did it fail of the desired effect. When
+he came to visit her, as he did on the moment of his return from Marli,
+the violence of her temper made her break out into such reproaches and
+exclamations, as a man had need be very much in love to endure: he
+endeavoured to make her sensible of her error by a thousand
+protestations; but the more he talk'd of Marli and the king's command,
+the more she told him of Charlotta and the masquerade; and almost
+distracted to find he still persisted in denying he was there, or had
+ever made any tender professions to that lady, she proceeded to such
+extravagancies as he, who knew himself innocent, could not forbear
+replying to in terms which were far from being softening:--in fine, they
+quarrelled to a very high degree, and some company happening to come in
+at the same time, hindered either of them from saying any thing which
+might palliate the resentment of the other.
+
+Before they had an opportunity of meeting again, mademoiselle de Coigney
+saw her brother; and artfully introducing some discourse of mademoiselle
+Charlotta de Palfoy, began to run into the utmost encomiums on that
+lady's beauty, virtue, wit, and sweetness of disposition, and at last
+added, that she should think herself happy in having her for a sister.
+Young de Coigney listened attentively to what she said: he had often
+been in her company, but being prepossessed with his passion for madame
+de Olonne, her charms had not that effect on him as now that the
+behaviour of the other had very much lessened his esteem of her.
+
+He replied, that he knew no lady more deserving than the person she
+mentioned, and should be glad if, by her interest, he might have
+permission to visit her: this was all mademoiselle de Coigney wanted;
+she doubted not but if he were once engaged in an honourable passion, it
+would entirely cure him of all regard for madame de Olonne, and as she
+knew he had a good share of understanding, thought that when he should
+come to a more near acquaintance with the perfections of Charlotta, the
+loose airs of the other would appear in their true colours, and become
+as odious to him as once they had been infatuating.
+
+Finding him so well inclined to her purpose, she took upon herself the
+care of introducing him, as it was indeed easy to do, considering the
+intimacy there was between her and Charlotta. That young lady received
+him as the brother of a person she extremely loved; and little
+suspecting the design on which he came, treated him with a gaity which
+heightened her charms, and at the same time flattered his hopes, that
+there was something in his person not disagreeable to her.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney took care that every visit he made to Charlotta
+should be reported to de Olonne, which still heightening her resentment,
+together with his little assiduity to moderate it, made a total breach
+between them, to the great satisfaction of all his friends in general.
+Those of them whom mademoiselle had acquainted with the stratagem by
+which she brought it about, praised her wit and address; and as they
+knew the family and fortune of mademoiselle Charlotta, encouraged her to
+do every thing in her power for turning that into reality which she at
+first had made use of only as a feint for the reclaiming of her brother.
+
+The young gentleman himself stood in need of no remonstrances of the
+advantages he might propose by a marriage with Charlotta; her beauty and
+the charms of her conversation had made a conquest of his heart far more
+complete than any prospect of interest could have done: not only de
+Olonne, but the whole sex would now in vain have endeavoured to attract
+the least regard from him, and as he was naturally vain, he thought
+nothing but Charlotta de Palfoy worthy of him.
+
+The success he had been accustomed to meet in his love affairs,
+emboldened him to declare himself much sooner than he would have done
+had he followed the advice of his sister, and too soon to be received in
+a manner agreeable to his wishes by a lady of Charlotta's modesty and
+delicacy, even had she not been prepossessed in favour of another; for
+tho' she respected him as the brother of her friend, that consideration
+was too weak to hinder her from letting him know how displeasing his
+pretensions were to her, and that if he persisted in them she should be
+obliged to refuse seeing him any more. He was now sensible of his error,
+and endeavoured to excuse it by the violence of his passion, which he
+said would not suffer him to conceal what he felt; but as, when a heart
+is truly devoted to one object, the sound of love from any other mouth
+is harsh and disagreeable; the more he aimed to vindicate himself in
+this point the more guilty he became, and all he said served only to
+increase her dislike.
+
+Mademoiselle de Coigney after this took upon her to intercede for her
+brother's passion, but with as ill success as he had done; and being one
+day more importunate than usual, mademoiselle Charlotta grew in so ill a
+humour, that she told her she was determined to give no encouragement to
+the amorous addresses of any man, unless commanded to do so by those who
+had the power of disposing her; but, added she, I would not have
+monsieur de Coigney make any efforts that way; for were he to gain the
+consent of my father, which I am far from believing he would do, I have
+so little inclination to give him those returns of affection he may
+expect, that in such a case I should venture being guilty of
+disobedience.
+
+Is there any thing so odious then, madam, in the person of my brother?
+said de Coigney with a tone that shewed how much she was picqued. I
+never gave myself the trouble of examining into the merits either of his
+person or behaviour, replied she; but to deal sincerely with you, I have
+a perfect aversion to the thoughts of changing my condition, and if you
+desire the friendship between us should subsist, you will never mention
+any thing of it to me;--and as to your brother, when I am convinced I
+shall receive no farther persecutions from him of the nature I have
+lately had, he may depend on my treating him with my former regard; till
+then, you will do me a favour, and him a service, to desire he would
+refrain his visits.
+
+These expressions may be thought little conformable to the natural
+politeness of the French, or to that sweetness of disposition which
+mademoiselle Charlotta testified on other occasions; but she found
+herself so incessantly pressed both by the brother and the sister, and
+that all the denials she had given in a different manner had been
+without effect, therefore was obliged to assume a harshness, which was
+far from being natural to her, in order to prevent consequences which
+she had too much reason to apprehend.
+
+Horatio soon discovered he had a rival in monsieur de Coigney; and tho'
+he easily saw by Charlotta's behaviour that he had nothing to fear on
+this score, yet the interruptions he received from the addresses of this
+new lover, made him little able to endure his presence, and he sometimes
+could not refrain himself from saying such things as, had not the other
+been too much buoyed up with his vanity to take them as meant to
+himself, must have occasioned a quarrel.
+
+She made use of all the power she had over him in order to curb the
+impetuosity of his temper whenever he met this disturber of his wishes;
+but his jealousy would frequently get the better of the respect he paid
+her, and they never were together in her apartment without filling her
+with mortal fears. She therefore found it absolutely necessary to get
+rid of an adorer she hated, in order to hinder one she loved from doing
+any thing which might deprive her of him; and tho' she had a real
+friendship for mademoiselle de Coigney, yet she chose rather to break
+with her, than run the hazard she was continually exposed to by her
+brother's indefatigable pursuit.
+
+But all her precaution was of no effect, as well as, the enforced
+patience of Horatio: what most she trembled at now fell upon her, and by
+a means she had least thought of. Madame de Olonne, full of malice at
+being forsaken by her lover, and soon informed by whose charms her
+misfortune was occasioned, got a person to represent to the baron de
+Palfoy the conquest his daughter had made in such terms, as made him
+imagine she encouraged his passion. Neither the character, family, or
+fortune of de Coigney being equal to what he thought Charlotta might
+deserve, made him very uneasy at this report; and as he looked on her
+not having acquainted him with his pretensions as an indication of her
+having an affection for him; he resolved to put a stop to the progress
+of it at once, which could be done no way so effectually as by removing
+her from St. Germains.
+
+To this end the careful Father came himself to that court, and waited on
+the princess: he told her highness, that being in an ill state of health
+and obliged to keep much at home, Charlotta must exchange the honour she
+enjoyed in her service, for the observance of her duty to a parent, who
+was now incapable of any other pleasures than her society.
+
+The princess, to whom she was extremely dear, could not think of parting
+with her without an extreme concern, but after the reasons he had given
+for desiring it, would offer nothing for detaining her, on which she was
+immediately called in, and made acquainted with this sudden alteration
+in her affairs.
+
+
+
+CHAP. VIII.
+
+_The parting of Horatio and mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains._
+
+A peal of thunder bursting over her head, could not have been more
+alarming to mademoiselle Charlotta than the news she now heard; but her
+father commanded, the princess had consented, and there was no remedy to
+be hoped: she took leave of her royal mistress with a shower of
+unfeigned tears, after which she retired to her apartment to prepare for
+quitting it, while the baron went to pay his compliments to some of the
+gentlemen at that court.
+
+To be removed in this sudden manner she could impute to no other motive
+than that the love of Horatio had by some accident been betrayed to her
+father, (for she never so much as thought of monsieur de Coigney;) and
+the thoughts of being separated from him was so dreadful, that till this
+fatal moment she knew not how dear he was to her:--to add to the
+calamity of her condition, he was that morning gone a hunting with the
+Chevalier St. George, and she had not even the opportunity of giving him
+the consolation of knowing she bore at least an equal part in the grief
+this unexpected accident must occasion. Mademoiselle de Coigney came to
+take leave of her, as did all the ladies of the queen's train as well as
+the princess's, and expressed the utmost concern for losing so agreeable
+a companion; but these ceremonies were tedious to her, and as she could
+not see Horatio, she dispatched every thing with as much expedition as
+her secret discontent would permit her to do, and then sent to let her
+father know she was ready to attend him.
+
+When they were in the coach both observed a profound silence for some
+time; at last, I hope Charlotta, said the baron, you have no
+extraordinary reasons to be troubled at leaving St. Germains? none, my
+lord, answered she, of so much moment to me as the fears my sudden
+removal is owing to your being dissatisfied with my conduct. I flatter
+myself, resumed he, you are conscious of nothing which should authorize
+such an apprehension:--you have had an education which ought to inform
+you that persons of your sex and age are never to act in any material
+point of themselves:--but courts are places where this lesson is seldom
+practised; and tho' the virtues of the English queen and princess are a
+shining example to all about them, yet I am of opinion that innocence is
+safest in retirement.
+
+As she was fully convinced in her mind that it was only owing to some
+jealousy of her behaviour that she had been taken from St. Germains, and
+also that it was on the score of Horatio, she would not enquire too
+deeply for fear of giving her father an opportunity of entering into
+examinations, which she thought she could not answer without either
+injuring the truth, or avowing what would not only have incensed him to
+a very great degree, but also put him upon measures which would destroy
+even the most distant hope of ever seeing Horatio more. He, on his side,
+would not acquaint her with the sentiments which the above-mentioned
+suggestions had inspired him with, thinking he should discover more of
+the truth by keeping a watchful eye over her behaviour without
+seeming to do so.
+
+During the time of their little journey from the palace of St. Germains
+to Paris, where monsieur the baron de Palfoy ordinarily resided, nothing
+farther was discoursed on: but when they arrived, and mademoiselle
+Charlotta had opportunity of reflecting on this sudden turn, she gave a
+loose to all the anxieties it occasioned:--she was not only snatch'd
+from the presence of what was most dear to her on earth, but as she had
+no confidante, nor durst make any, was also without any means either of
+conveying a letter to him, or receiving the least intelligence from him.
+
+She had been in Paris but a very little time before she perceived the
+baron artfully kept her in the most severe restraint under a shew of
+liberty; pretending to her, as he had done to the princess, that he was
+not well enough to go abroad, he would stay at home whole days together,
+and oblige her to read, or play to him on the spinnet, which frequently
+she did with an aking heart; and when she went out, it was always in
+company with a relation whom he kept at his house on purpose, as he
+said, as a companion to divert her, but in reality to be a spy over all
+her actions; and had orders to dive, by all the insinuations she was
+mistress of, into her very thoughts. All this mademoiselle Charlotta had
+penetration enough to discover, and, spite of the discontent she
+laboured under, so well concealed what they endeavoured to find out,
+that all the traps laid for her were wholly ineffectual.
+
+But in what manner did the enamoured Horatio support so cruel an
+affliction! he was no sooner informed at his return from hunting of what
+had happened, than he was seized with agonies, which, in the force he
+did himself to conceal, threw him into a fever that confined him to his
+bed for several days: as his passion for mademoiselle Charlotta was not
+in the least suspected, every body imputed his disorder to be occasioned
+by having over-heated himself in the chace, and during his indisposition
+was visited by all the court:--the Chevalier St. George sent two or
+three times a day to enquire of the health of his countryman, as he was
+pleased to call him, and gave him many other tokens how greatly he was
+in his favour; but all the civilities he received were not capable of
+lessening the anguish of his mind, which kept his body so weak, that
+tho' youth and an excellent constitution threw off the fever in a short
+time, yet he was unable to quit his chamber in near three weeks, and
+when he did, appeared so wan and so dejected, that he seemed no more
+than the shadow of the once gay and sprightly Horatio.
+
+But while he was thus sinking under the burden of his griefs, and
+despairing ever to see his adorable Charlotta any more, fate was
+providing for him a relief as unexpected as the cause of his present
+unhappy situation had been, and to the very same persons also was he
+indebted both for the one and the other.
+
+Young monsieur de Coigney was not less alarmed than Horatio at the
+removal of Charlotta, tho' it had not the same effect on him; he was
+continually teizing his sister to make her a visit and repeat her
+intercessions in his behalf; but she had received such tart answers on
+that score, that she was very unwilling to undertake the embassy:
+however, she complied at last, and was received by mademoiselle
+Charlotta in the most obliging manner, but had not the least opportunity
+of executing her commission, that lady having a good deal of company
+with her, whom she purposely detained to avoid entering into any
+particular conversation with her, till the hour in which she knew her
+attendance on the queen would oblige her to take leave.
+
+The baron de Palfoy was at that time abroad; but when he was informed
+who had been there, was a little disturbed that the sister of de Coigney
+endeavoured still to keep up her intimacy with his daughter, not
+doubting but she had either brought some letter or message from him, as
+he was fully persuaded in his mind that there was a mutual affection
+between them; but he took no notice of it as yet, thinking that probably
+she might make a second visit, and that then he should be better able to
+judge of the motive.
+
+In the mean time the father of monsieur de Coigney being informed of
+these proceedings, thought it beneath his son to carry on a clandestine
+courtship; and the great share he possessed of the royal favour, he
+having been instrumental in gaining some point in the parliament of
+Paris, rendered him vain enough to imagine his alliance would not be
+refused, tho' there was a superiority both of birth and fortune on the
+side of monsieur the baron de Palfoy.
+
+In a perfect confidence of succeeding in his request, he went to his
+house, and, after some little preparation, proposed a match between his
+son and mademoiselle de Palfoy. The baron was not at all surprized at
+what he said, because he expected, if the young people were kept
+asunder, an offer would be made of this kind; and after hearing calmly
+all he had to say, in order to induce him to give his consent, he told
+him, that he was very sorry he had asked a thing which it was impossible
+to grant, because he had already determined to dispose otherwise of his
+daughter. Monsieur de Coigney then asked to whom. I know not as yet,
+replied the other, but when I said I had determined to dispose her
+otherways, I only meant to one who is of blood at least equal to her
+own, and who has never, by any public debaucheries, rendered himself
+contemptible to the discreet part of mankind.
+
+De Coigney knew not how either to put up or resent this affront; he knew
+very well that his son had behaved so as to give cause for it, yet
+thought he had other perfections which might over-balance what, by a
+partial indulgence, he looked upon only as the follies of youth; and as
+for the reflection on his family, he told the other, that whatever he
+was he owed to the merit of his ancestors, not his own, and that he
+doubted not but his son would one day raise his name equal to that of
+Palfoy. In fine, the pride of the one, and the vanity of the other,
+occasioned a contest between them, which might have furnished matter for
+a scene in a comedy had any poet been witness of it: the result of it
+was that they agreed in this to be mutually dissatisfied with each
+other, never to converse together any more, and to forbid all
+communication between their families.
+
+The baron went immediately to his daughter's chamber, and having ordered
+her maid, who was then doing something about her, to leave the room, I
+have wondered, Charlotta, said he, with a countenance that was far from
+betraying the secret vexation of his mind, that you have never, since
+your coming to Paris, expressed the least desire of making a visit at
+St. Germains, tho' the duty you owe a princess, who seems to have a very
+great affection for you, might well have excused any impatience you
+might have testified on that score; besides, you owe a visit to
+mademoiselle de Coigney.
+
+The princess merits doubtless all the respect I am able to pay her,
+answered she; but, my lord, as it was your pleasure to remove me from
+that palace, I waited till your command should licence my return; as for
+mademoiselle de Coigney, the intimacy between us will excuse those
+ceremonies which are of little weight where there is a real friendship.
+
+These words confirming all the baron's suspicions, he thought there was
+no need of farther dissimulation, and the long-conceived indignation
+burst out in looks more furious than the trembling Charlotta had ever
+seen in him before.--Yes, degenerate girl! said he, I have but too plain
+proofs of the friendship in which you have linked yourself with the
+family of the de Coigney's;--but tell me, continued he, how dare you
+engage yourself so far without my knowledge? could you ever hope I would
+consent to an alliance with de Coigney?
+
+De Coigney! cried she, much more assured than she had been before the
+mention of that name, heaven forbid you should have such a thought!
+
+The resolution and disdain with which she spoke these words a little
+surprized him: what, cried he, have you not encouraged the addresses of
+young de Coigney, and even proceeded so far as to make his father
+imagine there required no more than to ask my consent to a marriage
+between you!
+
+How much courage does innocence inspire? Charlotta, of late so timid and
+alarmed while she thought Horatio was in question, was now all calmness
+and composure, when she found de Coigney the person for whom she had
+been suspected. She confessed to her father, with the most settled brow,
+that he had indeed made some offers of an affection for her, but said,
+she had given him such answers, as nothing but the height of arrogance
+and folly could interpret to his advantage; and then, on the baron's
+commanding her, acquainted him with every particular that had passed
+between that young gentleman, his sister, and herself, touching the
+affair she was accused of.
+
+She was so minute in every circumstance, answered with such readiness to
+all the questions he asked of her, and seemed so perfectly at ease, as
+indeed she was, that the baron could no longer have any doubts of her
+sincerity, and was sorry he had taken her so abruptly from St. Germains:
+he now told her, that she was at liberty to visit there as frequently as
+she pleased, only, as he had been affronted by old monsieur de Coigney,
+as well as to silence all future reports concerning the young gentleman,
+he expected she would break off all acquaintance with mademoiselle. She
+assured him of her obedience in this point, and added, that she could do
+it without any difficulty; for tho' she was a lady who had many good
+qualities, and one for whom she once had a friendship, yet the taking
+upon her to forward her brother's designs had occasioned a strangeness
+between them, which had already more than half anticipated his commands.
+
+Monsieur the baron de Palfoy was now as well satisfied with his daughter
+as he had lately been the reverse, and she was allowed once more all
+those innocent liberties which the French ladies, above those of any
+other nation in the world, enjoy.
+
+It is not to be doubted but that the first use she made of liberty was
+to go to St. Germains: she had heard from mademoiselle de Coigney, when
+she came to visit her, that Horatio had been very much indisposed, and
+at that time was not quite recovered, and was impatient to give him all
+the consolation that the sight of her could afford; but fearing she
+should not have an opportunity of speaking to him in private, she wrote
+a letter, containing a full recital of the reason which had induced her
+father to take her from St. Germains, and the happy mistake he had been
+in concerning de Coigney; concluding with letting him know he might
+sometimes visit her at Paris as an indifferent acquaintance, not the
+least suspicion being entertained of him, and the baron now in so good a
+humour with her, that it would not be easy for any one to make him give
+credit to any informations to her prejudice. The whole was dictated by a
+spirit of tenderness, which, tho' it did not plainly confess an
+affection, implied every thing an honourable lover could either
+expect or hope.
+
+On her arrival at St. Germains, where there was an extreme full court to
+congratulate the princess Louisa, on the great victories lately gained
+by Charles XII. the brave king of Sweeden, to whom she had been some
+time contracted, she passed directly to her highness's apartment; and
+the Chevalier St. George being then with her, those of his Gentlemen who
+had attended him thither, were waiting in the antichamber: among them
+was Horatio: the alteration of his countenance on sight of her, after
+this absence, was too visible not to have been remarked, had not all
+present been too busy in paying their compliments to her, to take any
+notice of it. He was one of the last that approached, being willing to
+recover the confusion he felt himself in, lest it should have an effect
+on his voice in speaking to her. She, more prepared, received his salute
+with the same gay civility she did the others, but at the same instant
+slipped the letter she had brought with her into his hand.
+
+Any one who is in the least acquainted with the power of love, may guess
+the transports of Horatio at this condescension; but, impatient to know
+the dear contents, he went out of the room as soon as he found he could
+do it without being observed, and having perused this obliging billet,
+found in it a sufficient cordial to revive that long languishment his
+spirit had been in.
+
+At his return he found her engaged in conversation with several
+gentlemen and ladies: he mingled in the company, but could expect no
+other satisfaction from it than being near his dear Charlotta, and
+hearing her speak. The Chevalier St. George soon after came out, and he
+was obliged with the rest of his train to quit the place, which at
+present contained the object of his wishes. She went in immediately
+after to the princess, so he saw her no more that day at St. Germains.
+
+All that now employed his thoughts was a pretence to visit her at her
+father's house; for tho' she had told him in her letter that he might
+come as an ordinary acquaintance, yet knowing that the continuance of
+their conversation depended wholly on the secrecy of it, he was willing
+to avoid giving even the most distant occasions of suspicion.
+
+Fortune, hitherto favourable to his desires, now presented him with one
+more ample than any thing his own invention could have supplied him
+with: happening to be at Paris in the company of some friends, with whom
+he stayed later than ordinary, he was hurrying thro' the streets in
+order to go to the inn where his servant and horses waited for him, when
+he heard the clashing of swords at some distance from him: guided by his
+generosity, he flew to the place where the noise directed him, and saw
+by the lights, which hang out very thick in that city, one person
+defending himself against three who pressed very hard upon him, and had
+got him down just as Horatio arrived to his relief: he ran among the
+assaillants; and either the greatness of his courage, or the belief that
+others would come to his assistance, threw them into such a
+consternation, that they all sought their safety in their flight, while
+the person they had attacked got up again and thanked his deliverer,
+without whose timely aid, he said, he could have expected nothing but
+death: those who set upon him being robbers, and, as he perceived by
+their behaviour, desperate wretches, who were for securing themselves by
+taking the lives, as well as money, of those who were too weak to resist
+them: he pointed to a dead body on the ground, who he told Horatio was
+his servant, and had been killed in his defence.
+
+But how transported was our young lover when, he found that the person
+to whom he had done so signal a piece of service, was the father of his
+mistress. As he perceived he had some wounds, tho' they proved but
+slight, he compleated the obligation he had began to confer, by
+supporting him under the arm till he got home, where the baron made him
+enter with him, and would have prevailed with him to stay all night; but
+Horatio told him he could not well dispense with being absent from his
+post; that it was highly proper he should return to St. Germains that
+night late as it was, but would do himself the honour of waiting on him
+the next day to enquire after the state of the wounds he had received.
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta was gone to bed; but being rouzed by the
+accident, no sooner was informed by the surgeons, who were immediately
+sent for, that there was nothing dangerous in the hurts her father had
+received, than she blessed heaven for making Horatio the instrument of
+his preservation. The sense the baron seemed to have of this obligation,
+and the praises he bestowed on the gallant manner in which the young
+gentleman came to his relief, made her almost ready to flatter herself
+that fate interested itself in behalf of their love; and indeed monsieur
+the baron, notwithstanding the haughtiness of his nature, had the most
+just notions of gratitude; and to testify it to Horatio, would have
+refused him scarce any thing except his daughter. But however that
+should happen, she still found more and more excuses for indulging the
+inclinations she had for him; and tho' she yet had never given him any
+such assurances, yet she resolved in her own mind, to live only for him.
+
+The baron being obliged to keep his bed for several days, Horatio had a
+pretence for repeating his visits to him during this time of his
+confinement, and afterwards went often by invitation; the other, besides
+the obligation he had to him, finding something extremely pleasing in
+his conversation, to which (not to take from Horatio's merits) the
+obsequiousness he found no difficulty in himself to behave with towards
+a Man of his age, his quality, and above all, the father of Charlotta,
+not a little contributed.
+
+The lovers had now frequent opportunities of entertaining each other
+both at Paris and St. Germains: nor were any of those demonstrations
+which virtue and innocence permitted, wanting between them, to render
+them as perfectly easy as people can possibly be, who have yet something
+to desire, and much to fear. But as smooth as now their fortune seemed,
+they knew not how soon a storm might rise, and give a sudden
+interruption to that felicity they enjoyed.--The charms of Charlotta
+were every day making new conquests; and among the number of those who
+pretended to admire her, how probable was it that some one might be
+thought worthy by her father, and she be compelled to receive the
+addresses of a rival. These were reflections too natural not to occur to
+them both, and whenever they did, could not fail of embittering those
+sweets the certainty of a mutual affection had otherwise afforded.
+
+They had now no trouble from monsieur de Coigney; his father, in order
+to make him forget a hopeless passion, had found an employment for him
+which obliged him to go many leagues from Paris; and once the
+conversation already mentioned at the baron's, his sister and
+mademoiselle Charlotta, by command of their respective parents, as well
+as their own inclinations, broke off all correspondence, nor even spoke
+to each other, unless when happening to meet in a visit, there was no
+avoiding it; and then it was in such a distant manner, and with so much
+indifference, that none would have imagined they ever had been intimate
+friends and companions.
+
+
+
+CHAP. IX.
+
+_A second separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+occurrences_.
+
+The season of the year now having put an end to the campaign, and the
+French, as well as confederate armies, being retired into their winter
+quarters, the baron de la Valiere, who had always a special permission
+from the general, returned to Paris: Horatio promised himself much
+satisfaction in the renewed society of this friend, and no sooner heard
+he was on the road than he went to meet him. The baron, charm'd with
+this proof of his affection and respect, received him as a brother, and
+there was little less freedom used between them.
+
+After the mutual testimonies and good-will were over de la Valiere began
+to ask him concerning mademoiselle Charlotta; on which Horatio
+acquainted him with her being removed from St. Germains, and the
+occasion of it, not omitting the arrogance with which old monsieur de
+Coigney had behaved to her father, and the resentment now between
+the families.
+
+Well, said the baron, but I hope you have been more successful, at least
+with the young lady: I will never more trust the intelligence of eyes,
+if yours did not hold a very tender intercourse; and I protest to you,
+my dear Horatio, that amidst all the toils and dangers of war, my
+thoughts were often at St. Germains, not envying, but congratulating the
+pleasures you enjoyed in the conversation of that amiable lady.
+
+I doubt not, replied Horatio with a smile, but we had you with us at a
+place which contained mademoiselle de Coigney; and I am of opinion too
+she was no less frequently in the camp with you; for in spite of all the
+reserve she affected while you were present, she never heard the bare
+mention of your name without emotions, which were very visible in her
+countenance.
+
+I would not be vain, replied the baron, but I sometimes have flattered
+myself with the hope I was not altogether indifferent to her; tho' for
+two whole years that I have constantly made my addresses to her, I never
+could obtain one soft confession to assure my happiness:--but let me
+know how you have proceeded on the score of mademoiselle Charlotta?
+believe me, I am not so engrossed by my own affairs, as not to give
+attention to those of a friend.
+
+Horatio, who had been engaged by Charlotta to preserve an inviolable
+secrecy in every thing that had passed between them, without any
+exception of persons, would fain have turned the conversation on some
+other topic: he truly loved the baron, had the highest opinion of his
+discretion, and would have trusted him with the dearest secrets of his
+life, provided they related to himself alone; but he had given his word,
+his oath, his honour to Charlotta, and durst not violate them on any
+consideration; yet, loth to refuse or to deceive his friend, he found
+himself in the most perplexing dilemma. As often as the other spoke of
+Charlotta, he answered with something of de Coigney; but all his
+artifice was ineffectual, and the baron at last saw thro' it, and
+assuming a very grave countenance, I perceive, Horatio, said he, you do
+not think me worthy your confidence, and I was to blame to press you to
+reveal what you resolve to make a mystery of.
+
+These words made a very deep impression on the grateful soul of him they
+were addressed to; and equally distressed between the necessity of
+either disobliging a person whose generosity he had experienced, or
+falsifying the promise he had made to Charlotta, at last an expedient
+offered to his mind how to avoid both, and yet not be guilty of injuring
+the truth.
+
+Alas! my lord, answered he, you little know the heart of Horatio, if you
+imagine there be any thing there that would hide itself from you:--I
+freely confess, the charms of mademoiselle Charlotta had such an effect
+on me, that, had I been in circumstances which in the least could have
+flattered me with success, I should long ago have avowed myself her
+lover: but when I reflected on the disparity between us, the humour of
+her father, and a thousand other impediments, I endeavoured to banish so
+hopeless a passion from my breast, and was the more confirmed in my
+resolution to do so by the ill treatment monsieur de Coigney
+received:--besides, her removal from St. Germains, depriving me in a
+great measure of those opportunities I had before of entertaining her,
+might very well contribute to wean off a passion, not settled either by
+time or expectation, of ever being gratified; and I hope, continued he,
+I shall always have so much command over myself as not to become
+ridiculous by aiming at impossibilities.
+
+Whether the baron gave any credit to what he said on this account or
+not, he had too much politeness to press him any farther; and the
+discourse soon after taking another turn, Horatio was very well pleased
+to think he had got off so well.
+
+De la Valiere having related to him some particulars of the late
+campaign, which the public accounts had been deficient in, they passed
+from that to some talk of the brave young king of Sweden, a topic which
+filled all Europe with admiration: but the French being a people in whom
+the love of glory is the predominant passion, were more than any other
+nation charmed with the greatness of that prince's soul.
+
+What indeed has any hero of antiquity to boast of in competition with
+this northern monarch, who conquered and gave away kingdoms for the
+benefit of others, disdaining to receive any other reward for all his
+vast fatigues, than the pleasure of giving a people that person whom he
+judged most worthy to reign over them!
+
+The baron, who had attended the Count de Guiscard when he was
+residentiary ambassador from his most christian majesty at the Swedish
+court, had an opportunity of seeing more of this monarch than any other
+that Horatio was acquainted with; he therefore, on his requesting it,
+informed him how, at the age of eighteen, he threw off all magnificence,
+forsook the pomp and delicacies of a court he had been bred in, and
+undertook, and compleated the delivery of his brother-in-law, the duke
+of Holstein, from the cruel incursions of the Danes, who had well nigh
+either taken or ravaged the greatest part of his territories. He also
+set forth, in its proper colours, the base part which Peter Alexowitz,
+czar of Muscovy, and Augustus, king of Poland, acted against a prince
+who was then employing his arms in the cause of justice; the latter of
+these bringing a powerful army to take from him one part of his
+dominions; and the former, at the head of an 100,000 men, were
+plundering the other: but when he concluded his little narrative, by
+reciting how this young conqueror, with a handful of brave Swedes,
+animated by the example of their king, put entirely to route all that
+opposed him, Horatio felt his soul glow with an ardour superior even to
+that of love: he longed to behold a prince who seemed to have all the
+virtues comprized in him, and whose very thoughts, as well as actions,
+might be looked upon as super-natural.
+
+He is, however, greatly to be pitied, said the baron de la Valiere, that
+the wars he is engaged in, and which, in all probability will be of long
+continuance, hinders him from the possession of the most amiable
+princess in the world, and I dare answer, at least if I may credit those
+about her, she wishes he were of a less martial disposition.
+
+He will be the more worthy of her, cried Horatio interrupting him, and
+the immortal fame of his actions be a sufficient attonement for all the
+years of expectation that may be its purchase.
+
+From the time Horatio had this discourse with the baron, the king of
+Sweden was ever uppermost in his thoughts: he had always reflected that,
+in the station he then was, it would be impossible to obtain any more of
+mademoiselle Charlotta than her heart, at least while the baron de
+Palfoy lived, and that a thousand accidents might deprive him of all
+hopes of ever being more happy; but, said he to himself, were I among
+the number of those who attend this hero in his martial exploits, I
+might at least have an opportunity of proving how far fortune would
+befriend me;--who knows but I might be able to do something which might
+engage that just and generous monarch to raise me to a degree capable of
+avowing my pretensions even to her father, and the same blessed day that
+joined our principals, might also make me blessed in the possession of
+my dear Charlotta.
+
+With these ideas did he often flatter himself; but the manner in which
+he should accomplish his desires was yet doubtless to him. The chevalier
+St. George treated him with so much kindness, that he had no room to
+doubt his having a great share in his favour; and was fully perswaded,
+that if he communicated his intentions to him, he would vouchsafe to
+give him letters of recommendation to a prince who was to be his
+brother-in-law: but this he feared to ask, lest it should be looked upon
+as ingratitude in him to desire to leave a court where he had been so
+graciously received, and had many favours, besides the perquisites of
+his post, heaped upon him, not only by the chevalier himself, but also
+by the queen and princess, who, following the example of the late king,
+behaved with a kind of natural affection to all the English.
+
+He sometimes communicated his sentiments on this head to mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who was too discreet not to allow the justness of them; and
+well knew, that in the station her lover now was, they never could be on
+any terms with each other than those they were at present: her reason,
+therefore, and the advantage of her love, made her sometimes wish he
+would follow the dictates of so laudable an ambition; but then the
+dangers he must inevitably be exposed to in following a monarch who
+never set any bounds to his courage, and the thoughts how long it might
+possibly be before she saw him again, alarmed all her tenderness; and he
+had the satisfaction of seeing the tears stand in her eyes whenever they
+had any discourse of this nature; and tho' her words assured him that it
+was her opinion he could not take a more ready way to raise his own
+fortune, yet her looks at the same time made him plainly see how much
+she would suffer in his taking that step.
+
+Many reasons, both for and against following his inclination in this
+point, presented themselves to him; and he had no sooner, as he thought,
+determined for the one, than the other rose with double vehemence and
+overthrew the former. In this fluctuating situation of mind did he
+remain for some time, and perhaps had done so much longer, had not an
+accident happened which proved decisive, and indeed left him no other
+party to take than that he afterwards did.
+
+Charlotta, being now entirely mistress of herself, gave him frequent
+meetings in the Tuilleries, judging it safer to converse with him there
+than at the house of any person, whom, in such a case, must be the
+confidante of the whole affair; whereas, if they were seen together in
+the walks, it might be judged they met by accident, and not give any
+grounds of suspicion, which hitherto they had been so fortunate as
+to avoid.
+
+It was in one of those appointments, when entered into a very tender
+conversation, they forgot themselves so far as to suffer the moon to
+rise upon them: the stillness of the evening, and the little company
+which happened to be there that night, seemed to indulge their
+inclinations of continuing in so sweet a recess:--they were seated on a
+bench at the foot of a large tree, when Charlotta, in answer to some
+tender professions he had been making, said, depend on this, Horatio,
+that as you are the first who has ever been capable of making me
+sensible of love, so nothing shall have power to change my sentiments
+while you continue to deserve, or to desire I should think of you as I
+now do. He shall not long continue to desire it,--cried a voice behind
+them, and immediately rushed from the other side of the thicket a man
+with his sword drawn, and ran full upon Horatio, who not having time to
+be upon his guard, had certainly fallen a victim to his rival's fury,
+had not a gentleman seized his arm, and, by superior strength, forced
+him some paces back.--Are you mad, monsieur, said he; do you forget the
+place you are in, or the danger you so lately escaped for an enterprize
+of this nature?
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta, now a little recovered from her first, surprize,
+and knowing it was young monsieur de Coigney who had given her this
+alarm, had presence enough of mind to ask how he dared, after he knew
+her own and father's resolution, to disturb her, or any company she had
+with her? he made no reply, but reflecting that there were other ways
+than fighting, by which he might be revenged, went hastily away with
+that friend who had hindered him from executing his rash purpose; but
+they could hear that he muttered something which seemed a menace against
+them both.
+
+How impossible is it to express the consternation our lovers now were
+in: they found by the repetition monsieur de Coigney made of the words
+she spoke, that what they had so long and so successfully laboured to
+conceal, was now betrayed:--betrayed to one who would not fail to make
+the most malicious use of the discovery, and doubted not but the affair
+would become the general talk, perhaps to the prejudice of Charlotta's
+reputation; but the least thing either could expect, was to be
+separated for ever.
+
+Horatio, full of disturbed emotions, conducted his disconsolate mistress
+to the gate of the Tuilleries, and there took a farewel of her, which he
+had too much reason to fear would be his last, at least for a long time.
+He was tempted by his first emotions to seek de Coigney, and call him to
+account for the affront he had put upon him, and either lose his own
+life, or oblige the other to secrecy; but then he considered, that there
+was some probability he would not dare to own that he had given himself
+any concern about mademoiselle Charlotta, after the injunction laid on
+him by his father, much less as he had attempted a duel in her cause,
+having, as has been already mentioned, been before guilty of a like
+offence against the laws, which in that country are very strict, on
+account of madame de Olonne; and this prevailed with him to be passive
+as to what had happened, till he should hear how the other would behave,
+and find what turn the affair would take.
+
+Charlotta in the mean time was in the most terrible anxieties:--she
+could not imagine what had brought monsieur de Coigney, who she thought
+had been many miles distant, so suddenly to Paris: but on making some
+private enquiry, she was informed, that having met some difficulty in
+the execution of his office, he had taken post, in order to lay his
+complaints before the king, and had arrived that very day.--She now
+blamed her own inadvertency in holding any discourse with Horatio, of a
+nature not proper to be over-heard, in a place so public as the
+Tuilleries, where others, as well as he, might have possibly been
+witnesses of what was said.
+
+Young monsieur de Coigney suffered little less from the turbulence of
+his nature, and the mortification it gave his vanity, to find a person,
+whom he looked upon as every way his inferior, preferred to him. His
+thoughts were wholly bent on revenge; but in what manner he should
+accomplish it, he was for some time uncertain: when he acquainted his
+father with the discovery he had made, and the resentment he had
+testified against this unworthy rival, as he called him, the old
+gentleman blamed him for taking any notice of it. Let them love on, son,
+said he; let them marry;--we shall then have a fine opportunity of
+reproaching the haughty baron with his new alliance. This did not
+however satisfy monsieur de Coigney: all the love he once had for
+mademoiselle Charlotta was now turned into hate; and in spite of his
+father's commands not to meddle in the affair, he could not help
+throwing out some reflections among his companions, very much to the
+disadvantage of the young lady's reputation. But these might possibly
+have blown over, as he had but a small time to vent his malice. His
+father knowing the violence of his temper, in order to prevent any ill
+consequences, compelled him to return to his employment; taking upon
+himself the management of that business which had brought him so
+unluckily to Paris.
+
+But mademoiselle de Coigney had no sooner been informed by her brother
+of the discovery he had made, than she doubted not that it was on the
+score of Horatio that he had met with such ill success in his courtship;
+and also imagined, that it had been owing to some ill impressions
+mademoiselle Charlotta had given the baron de Palfoy, that her father
+had been treated by him in the manner already recited. She complained of
+it to the baron de la Valiere, and told him, her whole family had been
+affronted, and her brother rendered miserable, for the sake of a young
+man, who, said she, can neither have birth or fortune to boast of, since
+he has been so long a prisoner without any ransom paid, or interposition
+offered to redeem him.
+
+The baron was too generous not to vindicate the merits of Horatio, as
+much as was consistent with his love and complaisance for his mistress:
+he was notwithstanding very much picqued in his mind that a person, to
+whom he had given the greatest proofs of a sincere and disinterested
+friendship, should have concealed a secret of this nature from him, and
+the more so, as he had seemed to expect and desire his confidence. From
+this time forward he behaved to him with a coldness which was sufficient
+to convince the other of the motive, especially as he found mademoiselle
+de Coigney took all opportunities of throwing the most picquant
+reflections on him. It is certain that lady was so full of spight at the
+indignity she thought her family had received, that she could not help
+whispering the attachment of Horatio and Charlotta, not only at St.
+Germains, but at Paris also, with inunendo's little less cruel than
+those her brother had made use of to his companions; so that between
+them, the amour was talked of among all who were acquainted with
+either of them.
+
+At length the report reached the ears of the baron de Palfoy, who, tho'
+he did not immediately give an entire credit to it, thought it became
+him to do every thing in his power to silence it.
+
+Accordingly he called his daughter to him one day, and having told her
+the liberty which the world took in censuring her conduct on Horatio's
+account, commanded her to avoid all occasions of it for the future, by
+seeing him no more.
+
+The confusion she was in, and which she had not artifice wholly to
+conceal from the penetrating baron, more convinced him, than all he had
+been told, that there was in reality some tender intercourse between
+them; but resolving to be fully ascertained, he said no more to her at
+that time, but dispatched a messenger immediately to St. Germains,
+desiring Horatio to come to him the same day.
+
+The lover readily obeyed this summons, but not without some
+apprehensions of the motive: the hints daily given him, joined to the
+alteration, not only in the behaviour of mademoiselle de Coigney, but
+likewise of the baron de la Valiere, gave him but too just room to fear
+his passion was no longer a secret.
+
+The father of Charlotta received him with great courtesy, but nothing of
+that pleasantness with which he had looked on him ever since he had
+defended him from the robbers. Horatio, said he, I am indebted to you
+for my life, and would willingly make what recompence is in my power for
+the obligation I have to you:--think therefore what I can do for you;
+and if your demands exceed not what is fit for you to ask, or would
+become me to grant, you may be assured of my compliance.
+
+The astonishment Horatio was in at these words is impossible to be
+expressed; but having an admirable presence of mind, my lord, answered
+he, I should be unworthy of the favours you do me, could I be capable of
+presuming on them so far as to make any requests beyond the
+continuance of them.
+
+No, Horatio, resumed the baron, I acknowledge my gratitude has been too
+deficient, since it has extended only to those civilities which are due
+to your merit, exclusive of any obligation; the conversation we have had
+together has hitherto afforded a pleasure to myself, and it is with a
+good deal of mortification I now find a necessity to break it off:--I
+would therefore have the satisfaction of doing something that might
+convince you of my esteem, at the same time that I desire you to refrain
+your visits.
+
+Not all Horatio's courage could enable him to stand this shock, without
+testifying some part of what passed in his mind:--he was utterly
+incapable of making any reply, tho' the silence of the other shewed he
+expected it, but stood like one confounded, and conscious of deserving
+the banishment he heard pronounced against him.--At last recollecting
+himself a little,--my lord, said he, I see not how I can be happy enough
+to preserve any part of your esteem, since looked upon as unworthy an
+honour you were once pleased to confer upon me.
+
+You affect, said the baron, a slowness of apprehension, which is far
+from being natural to you, and perhaps imagine, that by not seeming to
+understand me, I should believe there were no grounds for me to forbid
+you my house; but, young man, I am not so easily deceived; and since you
+oblige me to speak plain, must tell you, I am sorry to find you have
+entertained any projects, which, if you had the least consulted your
+reason, you would have known could never be accomplished.--In fine,
+Horatio, what you make so great a mystery of, may be explained in three
+words:--I wish you well as a friend, but cannot think of making you my
+son:--I would recompence what you have done for me with any thing but my
+daughter, and as a proof of my concern for your happiness, I exclude you
+from all society with her, in order to prevent so unavailing a passion
+from taking too deep a root.
+
+Ah, my lord, cried Horatio, perceiving all dissimulation would be vain,
+the man who once adored mademoiselle de Palfoy can never cease to do so.
+He ought therefore, replied the baron, without being moved, to consider
+the consequences well before he begins to adore:--if I had been
+consulted in the matter I should have advised you better; but it is now
+too late, and all I can do is to prevent your ever meeting more:--this,
+Horatio, is all I have to say, and that if in any other affair I can be
+serviceable to you, communicate your request in writing, and depend on
+its being granted.
+
+In speaking these last words he withdrew, and left Horatio in a
+situation of mind not easy to be conceived.--He was once about to
+entreat him to turn back, but had nothing to offer which could make him
+hope would prevail on him to alter his resolution.--He never had been
+insensible of the vast disparity there was at present between him and
+the noble family of de Palfoy: he could expect no other, or rather worse
+treatment than what he had now received, if his passion was ever
+discovered, and had no excuse to make for what himself allowed so great
+a presumption.
+
+With a countenance dejected, and a heart oppressed with various
+agitations, did he quit the house which contained what was most valuable
+to him in the world, while poor Charlotta endured, if possible, a
+greater shock.
+
+The baron de Palfoy, now convinced that all he had been informed of was
+true, was more incensed against her than he had been on the mistaken
+supposition of her being influenced in favour of monsieur de Coigney: he
+had no sooner left Horatio than he flew to her apartment, and reproached
+her in terms the most severe that words could form.--It was in vain she
+protested that she never had any design of giving herself to Horatio
+without having first received his permission.--He looked on all she said
+as an augmentation of her crime, and soon came to a determination to put
+it past her power to give him more than she had already done.
+
+Early next morning he sent her, under the conduct of a person he could
+confide in, to a monastry about thirty miles from Paris, without even
+letting her know whither she was about being carried, or giving her the
+least notice of her departure till the coach was at the door, into which
+he put, her himself with these words,--adeiu Charlotta, expect not to
+see Paris, or me again, till you desire no more to see Horatio.
+
+
+
+CHAP. X.
+
+_The reasons that induced Horatio to leave France; with the chevalier
+St. George's behaviour on knowing his resolution. He receives an
+unexpected favour from the baron de Palfoy._
+
+While Charlotta, under the displeasure of her father, and divided, as
+she believed, for ever from her lover, was pursuing her melancholy
+journey, Horatio was giving way to a grief which knew no bounds, and
+which preyed with the greater feirceness on his soul, as he had no
+friend to whom he could disburden it. The baron's estrang'd behaviour
+was no small addition to his other discontents, and he lamented the
+cruel necessity which had enforced him to disoblige a person to whom he
+owed so many favours, and whose advice would now have been the greatest
+consolation.
+
+He could not now hope Charlotta would be permitted to come to St.
+Germains, and doubted not but her father would take effectual methods to
+prevent her visiting at any place where even accident might occasion a
+meeting between them: he knew the watch had been set over her on the
+account of monsieur de Coigney, and might be assured it would not now be
+less strict, and that it would be equally impossible for either to
+communicate their thoughts by writing as it was to see each other.
+
+He was in the midst of these reflections when he heard, by some people
+who were acquainted with the baron de Palfoy, that he had sent his
+daughter away, but none knew where: this, instead of lessening his
+despair, was a very great aggravation of it:--he imagined she was
+confined in some monastry, and was not insensible of the difficulties
+that attend seeing a young lady who is sent there purposely to avoid the
+world; yet, said he to himself, could I be happy enough to discover even
+to what province she was carried, I would go from convent to convent
+till I had found which of them contained her.
+
+It was in vain that he made all possible enquiry: every one he asked was
+in reality as ignorant as himself.--The baron de Palfoy had trusted
+none, so could not be deceived but by those persons who had the charge
+of conducting her, and of their fidelity he had many proofs. Yet how
+impossible is it for human prudence to resist the decrees of fate.--The
+secret was betrayed, without any one being guilty of accusing the
+confidence reposed in them, and by the strangest accident that perhaps
+ever was, Horatio learned all he wished to know when he had given over
+all his endeavours for that purpose, and was totally despairing of it.
+
+He came one day to Paris, in order to alleviate his melancholy, in the
+company of some young gentlemen, who had expressed a very great regard
+for him; but his mind being taken up with various and perplexed thoughts
+on his entrance into that city, he mistook his way, and turned into the
+rue St. Dennis instead of the rue St. Honore, where he had been
+accustomed to leave his horses and servant.--He found his error just as
+he was passing by a large inn, and it being a matter of indifference to
+him where he put up, would not turn back, but ordered his man to alight
+here.--I forgot where I was going, said he, but I suppose the horses
+will be taken as much care of at this house as where we used to go. I
+shall see to that, replied the fellow. Horatio stepped into a room to
+take some refreshment while his servant went to the stable, but had not
+been there above a minute before he heard very high words between some
+people in the yard; and as he turned towards the window, saw a man in
+the livery of the baron de Palfoy, and whom he presently knew to be the
+coachman of that nobleman. He was hot in dispute with the innkeeper
+concerning a horse which he had hired of him, and, as the other
+insisted, drove so hard that he had killed him. The coachman denied the
+accusation; but the innkeeper told him he had witnesses to prove the
+horse died two hours after he was brought home, and declared, that if he
+had not satisfaction for his beast, he would complain to the baron, and
+if he did not do him justice, have recourse to law.--There was a long
+argument between them concerning the number of miles, the hours they
+drove, and the weight of the carriage.--Among other things the innkeeper
+alledged, that he saw them as he passed his corner, and there were so
+many trunks, boxes, and other luggage behind and before the coach,
+besides the company that was in it, that it required eight horses
+instead of six to draw it. Why then, said the coachman, did it not kill
+our horses as well as yours; if they had been equally good, they would
+have held out equally.--I do not pretend mine was as good, replied the
+innkeeper, I cannot afford to feed my horses as my lord does; but yet he
+was a stout gelding, and if he had not been drove so very hard, and
+perhaps otherwise ill used into the bargain, he would have been
+alive now.
+
+All this was sufficient to make Horatio imagine it was for the journey
+which deprived him of his dear Charlotta, that this horse had been
+hired, so tarried in the place where he was till the debate was over,
+which ended not to the satisfaction of the innkeeper, who swore he would
+not be fooled out of his money. As soon as the coachman was gone,
+Horatio called him in, and asked what was the matter, and who it was
+that endeavoured to impose upon him? on which the innkeeper readily told
+him, that on such a day this coachman came to him and hired a horse in
+order to make up a set to go to Rheines in Champaigne, my lord-baron
+having three or four sick in the stable at that time.--Two days after,
+said he, my horse was brought home all in a foam, and fell down dead in
+less than three hours, and yet this rascally coachman refuses to pay
+me for him.
+
+Horatio humoured him in all he said, and let him go on his own way till
+he had vented his whole stock of railing, and then asked him what
+company were in the coach. The innkeeper replied, that there was one man
+and two women, but did not know who they were, for their faces were
+muffled up in their hoods. This was sufficient for him to be assured it
+was no other than Charlotta, with her woman, and some friend whom the
+baron had sent with them. The day mentioned, being the very same he had
+been informed she was carried away, was also another confirmation; and
+he had not only the happiness of knowing where his mistress was, but of
+knowing it by such means as could give the baron no suspicion of his
+being acquainted with it, and therefore make him think it necessary to
+remove her.
+
+Having gained this intelligence, which yet he was no better for than the
+hope of being able to get a sight of her thro' the grate, which he was
+resolved to accomplish some way or other, he resumed his design of going
+into the army of the king of Sweden. As a perfect knowledge of the many
+excellent qualities of the chevalier St. George, made him regard and
+love him with an affection beyond what is ordinarily to be met with from
+a servant to his master, he felt an extreme repugnance to quit him, and
+yet more in breaking a matter to him which, while it testified a
+confidence in the goodness of him whose assistance he must implore, he
+thought, at the same time, would be looked on as ingratitude in himself;
+and he was some time deliberating in what manner he should do it; and it
+would have been perhaps a great while before he could have found words
+which he would have thought proper for the purpose, if he had not taken
+an opportunity, which, without any design of his own, offered itself
+to him.
+
+The chevalier St. George took a particular pleasure in the game of
+Chess; and Horatio having learned it among the officers in Campaine,
+frequently played with him: they were one evening at this diversion,
+when the lover of Charlotta having his mind a little perplexed, placed
+his men so ill, that the chevalier beat him out at every motion. How is
+this, Horatio, cried he; you used to play better than I, butt now I have
+the advantage of you.--May you always have it, sir, replied he with the
+utmost respect, over all who pretend to oppose you.--Chess is a kind of
+emblem of war, where policy should go hand in hand with courage; and
+there is a great master in that art, whom if I were some time to serve
+under, I flatter myself that I should be able to know how to move my men
+with better success than I have done to night; but then my skill should
+be employed only against such as are your enemies.
+
+You mean my brother Charles of Sweden, said the chevalier smiling, but I
+believe he seldom plays. Never, but when kingdoms are at stake, resumed
+Horatio; and if a day should come when you, sir, shall attempt the
+prize, how fortunate would it be for me to have learned to serve you as
+I am obliged by much more than my duty, by the most natural and
+inviolable attachment of my heart, which would render it the greatest
+blessing I could receive from heaven. I believe, indeed, returned the
+chevalier St. George, you love me enough to fight in my cause whenever
+occasion offers. I would not only fight, but die, cried Horatio warmly;
+yet I would wish to have the skill to make a great number of your
+enemies die before me. Well, said the chevalier, we will talk of this
+to-morrow; in the mean time play as well as you can against me at St.
+Germains: in another place perhaps you may play for me. Horatio made no
+other reply to these words than a low bow, and then elating his hands
+and eyes to heaven, as internally praying for the opportunity his master
+seemed to hint at.
+
+The impression this little conversation made on the mind of the
+chevalier St. George, proved itself in its effects the very next day.
+Horatio being ordered to come into his chamber early in the morning,--I
+have been thinking on what passed last night between us, said he, and if
+you have a serious Intention of doing what you seemed to hint at, will
+contribute all I can to forward you.
+
+Ah sir! cried Horatio, falling at his feet, impute not, I beseech you,
+this desire in me to any thing but the extreme desire I have to render
+myself worthy of the favours you have been pleased to confer upon me,
+and to be able to serve you whenever any happy occasion shall
+present itself.
+
+No more, Horatio, replied the chevalier, with a sweetness and affability
+peculiar to himself; I am perfectly assured of your duty and affection
+to me, and am so far from taking it ill that you desire to quit my court
+on this score, that I think, your ambition highly laudable:--I will
+write letters of recommendation, with my own hand, to my brother
+Charles, and to some others in his camp, which I doubt not but will
+procure you a reception answerable to your wishes:--therefore, as it is
+a long journey you are to take, the sooner you provide for your
+departure the better:--I will order you out of my privy purse 2000
+crowns towards your expences.
+
+Horatio found it impossible to express how much this goodness touched
+his soul; nor could do it any otherwise than by prostrating himself a
+second time, embracing his knees, and uttering some incoherent
+acclamations, which more shewed to his master the sincerity of his
+gratitude, and the perfect love he bore him, than the most elegant
+speeches could have done.
+
+After all possible demonstrations of the most gracious benignity on the
+one side, and reverence on the other, Horatio quitted the presence, and
+went to sir Thomas Higgons, who at that time was privy purse, and one of
+the finest gentlemen that ever England bred, and acquainted him with the
+chevalier St. George's goodness to him, and the change that was going to
+be made in his fortune: he thanked him in the politest manner for being
+made the first that should congratulate him, and told him, he did not
+doubt but he should see him return covered with laurels, and enriched
+with honours, by the most glorious and grateful monarch the world had to
+boast of. The whole court, whose esteem the good qualities, handsome
+person, and agreeable behaviour of Horatio had entirely gained, seemed
+to partake in his satisfaction, and he was so engrossed with the
+preparations for his departure, and receiving the compliments made him,
+that tho' he was far from forgetting Charlotta, yet the languishment
+which her absence had occasioned was entirely banished, and he now
+appeared all life and spirit.--So true it is that idleness is the food
+of soft desires.
+
+It must be confessed, indeed, that love had a very great share in
+reviving in him those martial inclinations, which for a time had seemed
+lulled to rest, since it was to render himself in a condition which
+might give him hope of obtaining the object of his love that now pushed
+him on to war. He resolved also to make Rheines in his way to Poland,
+where the king of Sweden then was pursuing his conquests, and see, if
+possible, his dear Charlotta, before he left France; and as he was of a
+more than ordinary sanguine disposition, he was much sooner elated with
+the prospect of success in any undertaking he went about, than dejected
+at the disappointment of it.
+
+The baron de la Valiere, whose friendship over-balanced his resentment,
+now gave an instance of his generosity, which, as things had stood of
+late between them, Horatio was far from expecting. That nobleman came to
+his apartment one day with a letter in his hand, and accosting him with
+the familiarity he had been accustomed to treat him with before their
+estrangement,--Horatio, said he, I cannot suffer you to leave us without
+giving you what testimonies of good-will are in my power:--you are now
+going among strangers, and tho' after the recommendations I hear you are
+to carry with you from the chevalier St. George, nothing can be added to
+assure you of the king of Sweden's favour, yet as many brave actions are
+lost for want of a proper representation of them, and the eyes of kings
+cannot be every where, it may be of some service to you to have general
+Renchild your friend: I once had the honour of a particular acquaintance
+with that great man, and I believe this letter, which I beg the favour
+of you to deliver to him, will in part convince him of your merit,
+before you may have an opportunity of proving it to him by your actions.
+
+Horatio took the letter out of his hand, which he had presented to him
+at the conclusion of his speech; and charmed with this behaviour, the
+satisfaction I should take, said he, in this mark of your forgiving
+goodness, would be beyond all bounds, were I not conscious how far I
+have been unworthy of it; and that I fear the same goodness, always
+partial to me, may have in this paper (meaning the letter) endeavoured
+to give the general an idea of me which I may not be able to preserve.
+
+I look upon myself to be the best judge of that, replied the baron with
+a smile; and you may remember, that on a very different occasion I saw
+into your sentiments before you were well acquainted with the nature of
+them yourself.
+
+As Horatio knew these words referred to the discourse that had passed
+between them concerning his then infant passion for mademoiselle
+Charlotta, he could not help blushing; but de la Valiere perceiving he
+had given him some confusion, would have turned the discourse, had not
+the other thought fit to continue it, by letting him know the real
+motive which had constrained him to act with the reserve he had done on
+that score.
+
+The baron de la Valiere assured him that he should think no more of it;
+and tho' at first he had taken it a little amiss, yet when he came to
+reflect on the circumstance, he could not but confess he should have
+behaved in the same manner himself.
+
+The renewal of the former friendship between them, greatly added to the
+contentment Horatio at present enjoyed; but soon after he received such
+an augmentation of it, as he could never have imagined, much less have
+flattered himself with the hope of.
+
+Some few days before his departure, a servant of the baron de Palfoy
+came to him to let him know his lord sent his compliments, and desired
+to speak with him at his own house. The message seemed so improbable,
+that Horatio could scarce give credit to it, and imagined the man had
+been mistaken in the person to whom he delivered it, till he repeated
+over and over again that it was to no other he was sent.
+
+Had it been any other than the father of mademoiselle Charlotta, who had
+invited him to a house he had been once forbid, he scarce would have
+obeyed the summons; but as it was he, the awful person who gave being to
+that charmer of his soul, he sent the most respectful answer, and the
+same day took horse for Paris, and attended the explanation of an order
+which at present seemed so misterious to him.
+
+The baron was no sooner informed he was there, than he came into the
+parlour with a countenance, which had in it all the marks of good humour
+and satisfaction; Horatio, said he, after having made him seat himself,
+I doubt not but you think me your enemy, after the treatment I gave you
+the last time you were here; but I assure you, I suffered no less myself
+in forbidding you my house, than you could do in having what you might
+think an affront put upon you:--but, continued he after a pause, you
+ought to consider I am a father, that Charlotta is my only child, that
+my whole estate, and what is of infinite more consideration with me, the
+honour of my family, must all devolve on her, and that I am under
+obligations not to be dispensed with, to dispose of her in such a manner
+as shall not any way degrade the ancestry she is sprung from.--I own
+your merits:--I also am indebted to you for my life:--but you are a
+foreigner, your family unknown,--your fortune precarious:--I could wish
+it were otherwise;--believe, I find in myself an irresistable impulse to
+love you, and I know nothing would give me greater pleasure than to
+convince you of it.--In fine, there is nothing but Charlotta I would
+refuse you.
+
+The old lord uttered all this with so feeling an accent that Horatio was
+very much moved at it; but unable to guess what would be the consequence
+of this strange preparation, and not having any thing to ask of him but
+the only thing he had declared he would not grant, he only thanked him
+for the concern he was pleased to express, and said, that perhaps there
+might come a time in which the obscurity he was in at present would be
+enlightened; at least, cried he, I shall have the satisfaction of
+endeavouring to acquire by merit what I am denied by fortune.
+
+I admire this noble ambition in you, replied the baron de Palfoy; pursue
+these laudable views, and doubt not of success:--it would be an infinite
+pleasure to me to see you raised so high, that I should acknowledge an
+alliance with you the greatest honour I could hope: and to shew you with
+how much sincerity I speak,--here is a letter I have wrote to count
+Piper, the first minister and favourite of the king of Sweden; when you
+deliver this to him, I am certain you will be convinced by his reception
+of you, that you are one whose interest I take no inconsiderable
+part in.
+
+With these words he gave him a letter directed, as he had said, but not
+sealed, which Horatio, after he had manifested the sense he had of so
+unhoped an obligation, reminded him of. As it concerns only yourself,
+said the baron, it is proper you should read it first, and I will then
+put on my signet.
+
+Horatio on this unfolded it, and found it contained such high
+commendations of him, and such pressing entreaties to that minister to
+contribute all he could to his promotion, that it seemed rather dictated
+by the fondness of a parent, than by one who had taken so much pains to
+avoid being so. O, my lord! cried he, as soon as he had done perusing
+it, how much do you over-rate the little merit I am master of, yet how
+little regard a passion which is the sole inspirer of it! what will
+avail all the glory I can acquire, if unsuccessful in my love!
+
+Let us talk no more of that, said the baron de Palfoy, you ought to be
+satisfied I do all for you in my power to do at present:--other
+opportunities may hereafter arrive in which you may find the continuance
+of my friendship, and a grateful remembrance of the good office you did
+me; but to engage me to fulfil my obligations without any reluctance on
+my part, you must speak to me no more on a theme which I cannot hear
+without emotions, such as I would by no means give way to.
+
+Horatio gave a deep sigh, but presumed not to reply; the other, to
+prevent him, turned the conversation on the wonderful actions of that
+young king into whose service he was going to enter; but the lover had
+contemplations of a different nature which he was impatient to indulge,
+therefore made his visit as short as decency and the favour he had just
+received would permit. The baron at parting gave him a very affectionate
+embrace, and told him, he should rejoice to hear of his success by
+letters from him as often as the places and employments he should be in
+would allow him to write.
+
+Let any one form, if they can, an idea suitable to the present situation
+of Horatio's mind at so astonishing an incident: impossible it was for
+him to form any certain conjecture on the baron de Palfoy's behaviour;
+some of his expressions seemed to flatter him with the highest
+expectations of future happiness, while others, he thought, gave him
+reason to despair:--sometimes he imagined that it was to his pride and
+the greatness of his spirit, which would not suffer him to let any
+obligation go unrequited, that he owed what had been just now done for
+him.--But when he reflected on the contents of the letter to count
+Piper, he could not help thinking they were dictated by something more
+than an enforced gratitude:--he remembered too that he promised him the
+continuation of his friendship, and had given some hints during the
+conversation, as if time and some accidents, which might possibly
+happen, might give a turn to his affairs even on Charlotta's
+account.--On the whole it appeared most reasonable to conclude, that if
+he could by any means raise his fortune in the world to the pitch the
+baron had determined for his daughter, he would not disapprove their
+loves; and in this belief he could not but think himself as fortunate as
+he could expect to be, since he never had been vain enough to imagine,
+that in his present circumstances he might hope either the consent of
+the father, or the ratification of the daughter's affection.
+
+Every thing being now ready for his departure, he took leave of the
+chevalier St. George, who seemed to be under a concern for losing him,
+which only the knowledge how great an advantage this young gentleman
+would receive by it, could console: the queen also gave him a letter
+from herself to her intended son-in-law; and the charming princess
+Louisa, with blushes, bid him tell the king of Sweden, he had her prayers
+and wishes for success in all his glorious enterprizes.
+
+Thus laden with credentials which might assure him of a reception equal
+to the most ambitious aim of his aspiring soul, he set out from Paris,
+not without some tender regret at quitting a place where he had been
+treated with such uncommon and distinguished marks of kindness and
+respect. But these emotions soon gave way to others more
+transporting:--he was on his journey towards Rheines, the place which
+contained his beloved Charlotta; and the thoughts that every moment
+brought him still nearer to her filled him with extacies, which none but
+those who truly love can have any just conception of.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XI.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds means to see mademoiselle Charlotta
+and afterwards pursues his journey to Poland_.
+
+The impatience Horatio had to be at Rheines made him travel very hard
+till he reached that city; nor did he allow himself much time for repose
+after his fatigue, till having made a strict enquiry at all the
+monasteries, he at length discovered where mademoiselle Charlotta
+was placed.
+
+Hitherto he had been successful beyond his hopes; but the greatest
+difficulty was not yet surmounted: he doubted not but as such secrecy
+had been used in the carrying her from Paris, and of the place to which
+she had been conveyed, that the same circumspection would be preserved
+in concealing her from the sight of any stranger that should come to the
+monastry:--he invented many pretences, but none seemed satisfactory to
+himself, therefore could not expect they would pass upon
+others.--Sometimes he thought of disguising himself in the habit of a
+woman, his youth, and the delicacy of his complexion making him imagine
+he might impose on the abbess and the nuns for such; but then he feared
+being betrayed, by not being able to answer the questions which would in
+all probability be asked him.--He endeavoured to find out some person
+that was acquainted there; but tho' he asked all the gentlemen, which
+were a great many, that dined at the same Hotel with him, he was at as
+great a loss as ever. He went to the chapel every hour that mass was
+said, but could flatter himself with no other satisfaction from that than
+the empty one of knowing he was under the same roof with her; for the
+gallery in which the ladies sit, pensioners, as well as those who have
+taken the veil, are so closely grated, that it is impossible for those
+below to distinguish any object.
+
+He was almost distracted when he had been there three or four days
+without being able to find any expedient which he could think likely to
+succeed:--he knew not what to resolve on;--time pressed him to pursue
+his journey;--every day, every hour that he lost from prosecuting the
+glorious hopes he had in view, struck ten thousand daggers to his
+soul:--but then to go without informing the dear object of his wishes
+how great a part she had in inspiring his ambition,--without assuring
+her of his eternal constancy and faith, and receiving some soft
+condescensions from her to enable him to support so long an absence as
+he in all probability must endure.--All this, I say, was a shock to
+thought, which, had he not been relieved from, would have perhaps abated
+great part of that spirit which it was necessary for him to preserve, in
+order to agree with the recommendatory letters he carried with him.
+
+He was just going out of the chapel full of unquiet meditations, when
+passing by the confessional, a magdalen curiously painted which hung
+near it attracted his eyes: as he was admiring the piece, something fell
+from above and hit against his arm; he stooped to take it up, and found
+it a small ivory tablet: he looked up, but could see the shadow of
+nothing behind the grate: imagining it only an accident, and not knowing
+to whom to return it, he put it in his pocket, but was no sooner out of
+the chapel than curiosity excited him to see what it contained, which he
+had no sooner done than in the first leaf he found these words:
+
+
+"As I imagine you did not come this long journey
+without a desire to see me, it would be too ungrateful
+not to assist your endeavours:--come a little before
+vespers, and enquire of the portress for mademoiselle
+du Pont;--say you are her brother, and leave the rest to me."
+
+
+There was no name subscribed; but the dear characters, tho' evidently
+wrote in haste and with a pencil, which made some alteration in the
+fineness of the strokes, convinced him it came from no other than
+Charlotta; and never were any hours so tedious to him as those which
+past between the receiving this appointment, and that of the
+fulfilling it.
+
+At length the wish'd-for time arrived, and he repaired to the gate,
+where telling the portress, as he was ordered, that he was the brother
+of mademoiselle du Pont, he was immediately brought into the parlour,
+where he had not waited long before a young lady appeared behind the
+grate: as he found it was not her he expected, he was a little at a
+loss, and not without some apprehensions that his imagination had
+deceived him: I know not, madame, said he, if chance has not made me
+mistaken for some happier person:--I thought to find a sister here.--No,
+replied she laughing, Horatio shall find me a sister in my good
+offices;--mademoiselle Charlotta will be here immediately;--she has
+counterfeited an indisposition to avoid going to vespers, and obtained
+permission for me to stay with her;--so that every thing is right, and
+as soon as the choir is gone into chapel you will see her. It would be
+needless to repeat the transports Horatio uttered on this occasion, so I
+shall only say they were such as convinced mademoiselle du Pont, that
+her fair friend had not made this condescension to a man ungrateful for,
+or insensible of the obligation. He was indeed so lost in them, that he
+scarce remembered to pay those compliments to the lady for her generous
+assistance which it merited from him; but she easily forgave any
+unpoliteness he might be guilty of on that score; and he so well attoned
+for it after he had given vent to the sudden emotions of his joy, that
+she looked, upon him as the most accomplished, as well as the most
+faithful of his sex. They had entered into some discourse of the rules
+of the monastry, and how impossible it would have been for him to have
+gained an interview with mademoiselle Charlotta, but by the means she
+had contrived;--she told him that young lady had seen him for several
+days, and not doubling but it was for her sake he came, had resolved to
+run any risque rather than he should depart without obtaining so small a
+consolation as the sight of her was capable of affording. Horatio, by
+the most passionate expressions, testified how dearly he prized what she
+had seemed to think of so little value, when the expected charmer of his
+soul drew near the grate.--All that can be conceived of tender and
+endearing past between them; but when he related to her the occasion of
+his coming, and that change of life he now was entering upon, she
+listened to him with a mixture of pleasure and anxiety:--she rejoiced
+with him on the great prospects he had in view; but the terror of the
+dangers he was plunging in was all her own. She was far, however, from
+discouraging him in his designs, and concealed not her admiration of the
+greatness of his spirit, and that love of glory which seemed to render
+him capable of undertaking any thing.
+
+But when she heard in what manner her father had treated him, she was
+all astonishment: as she knew his temper perfectly well, she was certain
+he would not have acted in the manner he did without being influenced to
+it by a very strong liking for Horatio; for tho' gratitude for the good
+office he had received at his hands might have engaged him to make some
+requital, yet there were several expressions which Horatio, who
+remembered all he said, with the utmost exactness repeated to her, that
+convinced her he would not have made use of, if he had not meant the
+person better than he at present would have him think he did; and that
+there was in reality nothing restrained him from making them as happy as
+their mutual affection could desire, but the pride of blood and the talk
+of the world, which the disparity of their present circumstances would
+occasion. As she doubted not but the courage and virtue of Horatio would
+remove that impediment, by acquiring a promotion sufficient to
+countenance his pretensions, she had now no other disquiet than what
+arose from her fears for his safety, which she over and over repeated,
+conjuring him, in the most tender terms, not to hazard himself beyond
+what the duties of his post obliged him to:--this, said she, shall be
+the test of my affection to you; for whenever I hear you run yourself
+into unnecessary dangers, I will conclude from that moment you have
+ceased to remember, or pay any regard to my injunctions or repose.
+
+Horatio kissed her hand thro' the grate, and told her, he would always
+set too great a value on a life she was so good to with the continuance
+of, not to take all the care of it that honour would admit; but she
+would not give him leave to add any asseverations to this promise,
+which, said she, you will every day be tempted to break;--the
+enterprizing disposition of the prince you are going to serve, added to
+your own sense of glory, will make it very difficult for you not to be
+the foremost in following wherever his royal example leads the way:--nor
+would I wish you to purchase security by the price of infamy; but as you
+go in a manner such as will in all probability place you near his
+person, methinks it would be easy for you, by now and then mentioning
+the princess Louisa, to rouse in him these soft emotions which might
+prevent him from too rashly exposing a life she had so great an
+interest in.
+
+How great a pity was it this tender conversation between two persons who
+had so pure a passion for each other, who had been absent for some time,
+and who knew not when, or whether ever they should meet again, could not
+be indulged with no longer continuance! but now mademoiselle du Pont,
+who had been so good as to stand at some little distance, while they
+entertained each other, as a watch to give them notice of any
+interruption, now warned them that they must part:--divine service was
+over, and the abbess and nuns were returning from chapel.
+
+Short was the farewel the lovers took; mademoiselle Charlotta had told
+him it would be highly improper he should run the hazard of a discovery
+by coming there a second time, which would probably incense her father
+so much, as to convert all the favourable intentions he now might have
+towards them into the reverse, and he was therefore oblig'd to content
+himself with printing with his lips the seal of his affection on her
+hand, which he had scarce done before, on a second motion by
+mademoiselle du Pont, she shot suddenly from the place and went to her
+chamber, that no suspicions might arise on her being found so well as to
+have been able to quit it.
+
+As he had passed for the brother of mademoiselle du Pont, she stayed
+some little time with him: this lady, whom Charlotta in this exigence
+had made her confidant, had a great deal of good nature, and seeing the
+agony Horatio was in, endeavoured to console him by all the arguments
+she thought might have force;--she told him, that in the short time she
+had been made partaker of mademoiselle Charlotta's secrets, she had
+expressed herself with a tenderness for him, with which he ought to be
+satisfied, and that she was convinced nothing would ever be capable of
+making the least alteration in her sentiments.
+
+While she was speaking in this manner, Horatio remembered that he had
+not given Charlotta her tablet, which he now took out of his pocket, and
+with the same pencil she had made use of, and which was fastened to it,
+wrote in the next leaf to that she had employed these words;
+
+
+"I go, most dear, and most adorable Charlotta;
+whether to live or die I know not, but which
+ever is my portion, the passion I have for you is
+rooted in my soul, and will be equally immortal:
+life can give no joy but in the hope of being
+yours, nor death any terrors but being separated
+from you:--O! let nothing ever prevail on
+you to forget so perfect an attachment; but in
+the midst of all the temptations you may be
+surrounded with, think that you have vouch-safed
+to encourage my hopes, presuming as they
+are, and if once lost to them, what must be the
+destiny of
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+Having thus poured out some part of the over-flowings of his heart, he
+entreated mademoiselle du Pont to give it her, which she assured him she
+would not only do, but also be a faithful monitor for him during the
+whole time she should be happy enough to enjoy the company of that lady.
+Horatio having now fulfilled all his passion required of him, quitted
+Rheines the next day, no less impatient to pursue his other
+mistress, glory!
+
+But let us now see in what manner his beautiful sister Louisa, whom we
+left at Vienna, was all this while engaged.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XII.
+
+_Continuation of the adventures of Louisa: her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some accidents that there
+befel them_.
+
+Not all the gaieties of the court of Vienna had power to attach the
+heart of Melanthe, after she heard that a great number of young
+officers, just returned from the campaign in Italy, and other persons of
+condition, were going to Venice, in order to partake the diversions of
+the near approaching carnival: she was for following pleasure every
+where, and having seen all that was worth observing in Germany, was
+impatient to be gone where new company and new delights excited her
+curiosity.
+
+Having therefore obtained proper passports, they set out in company with
+several others who were taking the same rout, and by easy journeys thro'
+Tyrol, at length arrived at that republic, so famous over all Europe for
+its situation, antiquity, and the excellence of its constitution.
+
+Here seemed to be at this time an assemblage of all that was to be found
+of grand and polite in the whole christian world; but none appeared with
+that splendor and magnificence as did Lewis de Bourbon, prince of Conti:
+he had in his train above fifty noblemen and gentlemen of the best
+families in France, who had commissions under him in the army, and
+seemed proud to be of his retinue, less for his being of the blood
+royal, than for the many great and amiable qualities which adorned his
+person. This great hero had been a candidate with Augustus, elector of
+Saxony, for the crown of Poland; but the ill genius of that kingdom
+would not suffer it to be governed by a prince whose virtues would
+doubtless have rendered it as flourishing and happy as it has since that
+unfortunate rejection been impoverished and miserable. Bigotted to a
+family whose designs are plainly to render the crown hereditary, they
+not only set aside that great prince, under the vain and common-place
+pretence, that on electing him they might be too much under the
+influence of France; but also afterward, as resolved to push all good
+fortune from them with both hands, refused Stanislaus, a native of
+Poland, a strict observer of its laws, and a man to whose courage,
+virtue, and every eminent qualification even envy itself could make no
+objection, and thereby rendered their country the seat of war and
+theatre of the most terrible devastations of all kinds. But of this
+infatuation of the Poles I shall have occasion hereafter to speak more
+at large, and should not now have made any mention of it, had not the
+presence of that hero, whom they first rejected, rendered it the general
+subject of discourse at Venice. Numberless were the instances he gave of
+a magnanimity and greatness of mind worthy of a more exalted throne than
+that of Poland; but I shall only mention one, which, like the thumb of
+Hercules, may serve to give a picture of him in miniature.
+
+Having the good fortune one night to win a very great sum at a public
+gaming, just as he sweep'd the stakes, a noble Venetian, who by some
+casualties in life was reduced in his circumstances, could not help
+crying out, heavens! how happy would such a chance have made me! these
+words, which the extreme difficulties he was under forced from him,
+without being sensible himself of what he said, were over-heard by the
+prince, who turning hastily about, instead of putting the money into his
+own pocket, presented it to him, saying, I am doubly indebted to chance,
+sir, which has made me master of this; since it may be of service to
+you, I beseech you therefore to accept it with the respects of a prince,
+whose greatest pleasure in life is to oblige a worthy person.
+
+It would take up too much time to expatiate on the grateful
+acknowledgments made by the Venetian, or the admiration which the report
+of this action being immediately spread, occasioned; but, added to
+others of a little less conspicuous nature, it greatly served to
+convince those who before were ignorant of it, how blind the Polanders
+had been to their own interest.
+
+Among the concourse of nobility and gentry, whom merely the love of
+pleasure had drawn hither, and for that end were continually forming
+parties, Melanthe never failed of making one either in one company or
+other: Louisa, whom that lady still treated with her former kindness, or
+rather with an increase of it, was also seldom absent, and when she was
+so, the fault was wholly her own inclination: but in truth, that hurry
+of incessant diversion, which at first had seemed so ravishing to her
+young and unexperienced mind, began, by a more perfect acquaintance with
+it, to grow tiresome to her, and she rather chose sometimes to retire
+with a favourite book into her closet, than to go to the most elegant
+entertainment.
+
+It is certain, indeed, that her disposition was rather inclined to
+serious than the contrary, and that, joined with the reflections which
+her good understanding was perpetually presenting her with, on the
+uncertainty of her birth, the precariousness of her dependance, and her
+enforced quitting the only person from whom she could expect the means
+of any solid establishment in the world, had rendered her sometimes
+extremely thoughtful, even in the midst of those pleasures that are
+ordinarily most enchanting to one of her sex and age. But as she never
+was elated with the respect paid to her supposed condition, so she never
+was mortified with the consciousness of her real one, to a behaviour
+such as might have degraded the highest birth; neither appearing to
+expect it, or be covetous of honours, nor meanly ashamed of accepting
+them when offered. And while by this prudent management she secured
+herself from any danger of being insulted whenever it should be known
+who she was, she also gave no occasion for any one to make too deep an
+enquiry into her descent or fortune.
+
+But now the time was arrived when those deficiencies gave her more
+anxiety than hitherto they had done; and love in one moment filled her
+with those repinings at her fate, which neither vanity or ambition would
+ever have had power to do.
+
+Melanthe here, as at Vienna, received the visits of all whose birth,
+fortune, or accomplishments, gave them a pretence; but there was none
+who paid them so frequently, or which she encouraged with so much
+pleasure as those of the count de Bellfleur, a French nobleman belonging
+to the above-mentioned prince of Conti: she often told Louisa, when they
+were alone, that there was something in the air and manner of behaviour
+of this count, which had so perfect a resemblance with that of Henricus,
+that tho' it reminded her of that once dear and perfidious man, she
+could not help admiring and wishing a frequent sight of him. This was
+spoke at her first acquaintance with him; but after some little time she
+informed her, that he had declared a passion for her. He is not only
+like Henricus in his person, said she, but appears to have the same
+inclinations also:--he pretends to adore me, continued she with a sigh,
+and spares no vows nor presents to assure me of it:--something within
+tempts me to believe him, and yet I fear to be a second time betrayed.
+
+Ah! madam, cried Louisa, in the sincerity of her heart, I beseech you to
+be cautious how you too readily give credit to the protestations of a
+sex, who, by the little observations I have made, take a pride in
+deceiving ours;--besides, the count de Bellfleur is of a nation where
+faith, I have heard, is little to be depended on.
+
+Those who give them that character, replied Melanthe, do them an
+infinite injustice:--in politics, I allow, they have their artifices,
+their subterfuges, as well as in war; but then they put them in practice
+only against their enemies, or such as are likely to become
+so:--wherever they love, or have a friendship, their generosity is
+beyond all bounds.--
+
+She pursued this discourse with a long detail of all she had ever read
+or heard in the praise of the French, and did not forget to speak of the
+prince of Conti as an instance of the gallant spirit with which that
+people are animated.
+
+Louisa knew her temper, and that it would be in vain to urge any thing
+in contradiction to an inclination she found she was resolved to
+indulge; but she secretly trembled for the consequence, the count having
+said many amorous things to herself before he pretended any passion for
+Melanthe; and tho' he had of late desisted on finding how little she was
+pleased with them, yet that he had done so was sufficient to convince
+her he was of a wavering disposition. Melanthe was not, however, to be
+trusted with this secret; she loved him, and jealousy, added to a good
+share of vanity, would, instead of engaging any grateful return for a
+discovery of that nature, have made her hate the person he had once
+thought of as worthy of coming in any competition with herself. She
+therefore indeed thought it best not to interfere in the matter, but
+leave the event wholly to chance.
+
+The evening on the day in which this discourse had past between them,
+they went to a ball, to which they had been invited by one of the
+Magnifico's. The honour of the prince's company had been requested; but
+he excused himself on account, as it was imagined, of his being engaged
+with a certain German lady, who also being absent, gave room for this
+conjecture: most of the gentlemen who had followed his highness from
+France were there, among whom was the count de Bellfleur, and a young
+gentleman called monsieur du Plessis, who, by a fall from his horse, had
+been prevented from appearing in public since his arrival. The
+gracefulness of his person, the gallant manner in which he introduced
+himself, and the brilliant things he said to the ladies, on having been
+so long deprived of the happiness he now enjoyed, very much attracted
+the admiration of the company; but Louisa in particular thought she had
+never seen any thing so perfectly agreeable: a sympathy of sentiment,
+more than accident, made him chuse her for his partner in a grand dance
+then leading up; and the distinction now paid her by him gave her a
+secret satisfaction, which she had never known before on such an
+occasion, tho' often singled out by persons in more eminent stations.
+
+The mind which, whenever agitated by any degree of pain or pleasure,
+never fails to discover itself in the eyes, now sparkled in those of
+Louisa with an uncommon lustre, nor had less influence over all her
+air:--her motions always perfectly easy, gentle and graceful, especially
+in dancing, were now more spirituous, more alert than usual; and she so
+much excelled herself, that several, who had before praised her skill in
+this exercise, seemed ravished, as if they had seen something new and
+unexpected:--her partner was lavish in the testimonies of his
+admiration, and said, she as much excelled the ladies of his country, as
+they had been allowed to excel all others.
+
+The encomiums bestowed on her, and more particularly those she received
+from him, still added fresh radiance to her eyes, and at the same time
+diffused a modest blush in her checks which heightened all her
+charms.--Never had she appeared so lovely as at this time; and the count
+de Bellfleur, in spight of his attachment to Melanthe, felt in himself a
+strong propensity to renew those addresses which her reserved behaviour
+alone had made him withdraw and carry to another; but the lady to whom
+for some days past he had made a shew of devoting himself was present,
+and he was ashamed to give so glaring an instance of his infidelity,
+which must in all probability render him the contempt of both.
+
+This night, however, lost Melanthe the heart she had thought herself so
+secure of; but little suspecting her misfortune, she treated the
+inconstant count with a tenderness he was far from deserving; and having
+transplanted all the affection she once had for Henricus on this new
+object, told him, at a time that such discovery was least welcome to
+him, that she was not insensible of his merit, nor could be ungrateful
+to his passion, provided she could be convinced of the sincerity of it.
+He had gone too far with her now to be able to draw back, therefore
+could not avoid repeating the vows he before had made, tho' his heart
+was far from giving any asient to what his tongue was obliged to utter;
+but blinded by her own desires, she perceived not the change in his, and
+appointed him to come the next day to her lodgings, promising to be
+denied to all other company, that she might devote herself entirely
+to him.
+
+It is possible he was so lost in his passion for Louisa, as not to be
+sensible of the condescension made him by Melanthe; but it is certain,
+by the sequel of his behaviour, that he was much less so than he
+pretended.
+
+The ball being ended, these ladies carried with them very different
+emotions, tho' neither communicated to the other what she felt. Melanthe
+had a kind of awe for those virtuous principles she observed in Louisa,
+tho' so much her inferior and dependant, and was ashamed to confess her
+liking of the count should have brought her to such lengths; not that
+she intended to keep it always a secret from her, but chose she should
+find it out by degrees; and these thoughts so much engrossed her, that
+she said little to her that night. Louisa, for her part, having lost the
+presence of her agreeable partner, was busy in supplying that deficiency
+with the idea of him; so that each having meditations of her own of the
+most interesting nature, had not leisure to observe the thoughtfulness
+of the other, much less to enquire the motive of it.
+
+One of the great reasons that we find love so irresistable, is, that it
+enters into the heart with so much subtilty, that it is not to be
+perceived till it has gathered too much strength to be repulsed. If
+Louisa had imagined herself in any danger from the merits of monsieur du
+Plessis, she would at least have been less easily overcome by them:--she
+had been accustomed to be pleased with the conversation of many who had
+entertained her as he had done, but thought no more of them, or any
+thing they said, when out of their company; but it was otherways with
+her now: not a word he had spoke, not a glance he had given, but was
+imprinted in her mind:--her memory ran over every little action a
+thousand and a thousand times, and represented all as augmented with
+some grace peculiar to himself, and infinitely superior to any thing she
+had ever seen:--not even sleep could shut him out;--thro' her closed
+eyes she saw the pleasing vision; and fancy, active in the cause of
+love, formed new and various scenes, which to her waking thoughts were
+wholly strangers.
+
+Melanthe also past the night in ideas which, tho' experienced in, were
+not less ravishing: she was not of a temper to put any constraint on her
+inclinations; and having entertained the most amorous ones for the count
+de Bellfleur, easily overcame all scruples that might have hindered the
+gratification of them:--her head ran on the appointment she had made
+him:--the means she would take to engage his constancy,--resolved to
+sell the reversion of her jointure and accompany him to France, and
+flattered herself with the most pleasing images of a long series of
+continued happiness in the arms of him, who was now all to her that
+Henricus ever had been.
+
+Full of these meditations she rose, and soon after received from the
+subject of them a billet, containing these words:
+
+_To the charming_ MELANTHE.
+
+MADAM,
+
+"Tho' the transporting promise you made
+me of refusing admittance to all company
+but mine, is a new instance of your goodness,
+yet I cannot but think we should be still more
+secure from interruption at a place I have taken
+care to provide. Might I therefore hope you
+would vouchsafe to meet me about five in the
+evening at the dome of St. Mark, I shall be
+ready with a Gondula to conduct you to a recess,
+which seems formed by the god of love himself
+for the temple of his purest offerings, than which
+which none can be offered with greater passion
+and sincerity than those of the adorable Melanthe's
+
+_Most devoted, and
+Everlasting Slave_,
+DE BELLFLEUR.
+
+_P.S._. To prevent your fair friend Louisa from
+any suspicion on account of being left at
+home, I have engaged a gentleman to make
+her a visit in form, just before the time of
+your coming out:--favour me, I beseech
+you, with knowing if my contrivances in
+both these points have the sanction of your
+approbation."
+
+
+Tho' Melanthe, as may have been already observed in the foregoing part
+of her character, was no slave to reputation in England, and thought
+herself much less obliged to be so in a place where she was a stranger,
+and among people who, when she once quitted, she might probably never
+see again, yet she looked on this caution in her lover as a new proof of
+his sincerity and regard for her. She was also fond of every thing that
+had an air of luxury, and doubted not to find the elegance of the French
+taste in the entertainment he would cause to be prepared for her
+reception, therefore hesitated not a moment to send him the
+following answer:
+
+_To the engaging count_ DE BELLFLEUR.
+
+"Sensible, as you are, of the ascendant your
+merits have gained over me, you cannot
+doubt of my compliance with every thing that seems
+reasonable to you:--I will not fail to be
+at the place you mention; but oh! my dear
+count, I hope you will never give me cause to
+repent this step;--if you should, I must be
+the most miserable of all created beings; but I
+am resolved to believe you are all that man ought
+to be, or that fond tenacious woman can desire;
+and in that confidence attend with impatience
+the hour in which there shall be no more reserve
+between us, and I be wholly yours.
+
+MELANTHE."
+
+
+Thus every thing being fixed for her undoing, she spent the best part of
+the day in preparing for the rendezvous: nothing was omitted in the
+article of dress, which might heighten her charms and secure her
+conquest:--the glass was consulted every moment, and every look and
+various kind of languishment essayed, in order to continue in that which
+she thought would most become the occasion. As she ordinarily past a
+great deal of time in this employment, Louisa was not surprized that she
+now wasted somewhat more than usual; and the discourse they had together
+while she was dressing, and all the time of dinner, being very much on
+the ball and the company who were at it, her thoughts were so much taken
+up with the remembrance of du Plessis, that she perceived not the hurry
+of spirits which would else have been visible enough to her in all the
+words and motions of the other, and which increased in proportion as the
+hour of her appointment drew nearer.
+
+At length it arrived, and a servant came into the room and acquainted
+Louisa a gentleman desired to speak with her; she was a little
+surprized, it being usual for all those who visited there to expect
+their reception from Melanthe; but that lady, who doubted not but it was
+the same person the count had mentioned in his letter, prevented her
+from saying any thing, by immediately giving orders for the gentleman to
+be admitted.
+
+But with what strange emotions was the heart of Louisa agitated, when
+she saw monsieur du Plessis come into the room! and after paying his
+respects to Melanthe in the most submissive manner, accosted her, with
+saying he took the liberty of enquiring of her health after the fatigue
+of the last night; but, added he, the question, now I have the happiness
+of seeing you, is altogether needless; those fine eyes, and that
+sprightly air, declare you formed for everlasting gaiety, and that what
+is apt to throw the spirits of others into a languor, serves but to
+render yours more sparkling.
+
+Louisa, in spite of the confusion she felt within, answered this
+compliment with her accustomed ease; and being all seated, they began to
+enter into some conversation concerning the state with which the
+Magnifico's of Venice are served, the elegance with which they entertain
+strangers, and some other topics relating to the customs of that
+republic, when all on a sudden Melanthe starting up, cried, bless me! I
+had forgot a little visit was in my head to make to a monastery hard
+by:--you will excuse me, monsieur, continued she, I leave your partner
+to entertain you, and fancy you two may find sufficient matter of
+conversation without a third person. She had no sooner spoke this than
+she went out of the room, and left Louisa at a loss how to account for
+this behaviour, as she had not before mentioned any thing of going
+abroad. She would have imagined her vanity had been picqued that
+monsieur du Plessis had particularized her in this visit; but as she
+seemed in perfect good humour at going away, and knew she thought it
+beneath her to put any disguise on her sentiments, she was certain this
+sudden motion must have proceeded from some other cause, which as yet
+she could form no conjecture of.
+
+This deceived lady, however, was no sooner out of the room, than
+monsieur du Plessis drawing nearer to Louisa, how hard is my fate,
+madame, said he, in a low voice, that I am compelled to tell you any
+other motive than my own inclination has occasioned my waiting on
+you:--heaven knows it is an honour I should have sought by the lowest
+submissions, and all the ways that would not have rendered me unworthy
+of it; but I now come, madame, not as myself, but as the ambassador of
+another, and am engaged by my word and honour to plead a cause which, if
+I succeed in, must be my own destruction.
+
+Louisa was in the utmost consternation at the mystery which seemed
+contained in these words: she looked earnestly upon him while he was
+uttering the latter part, and saw all the tokens of a serious perplexity
+in his countenance, as well as in the accents with which he delivered
+them; but not being willing to be the dupe of his diversion, thought it
+best to answer as to a piece of railery, and told him, laughing, she
+imagined this was some new invention of the frolics of the season, but
+that she was a downright English-woman, understood nothing beyond plain
+speaking, and could no ways solve the riddle he proposed.
+
+What I say, may doubtless appear so, madame; replied she, and I could
+wish it had not been my part to give the explanation; but I cannot
+dispense with the promise I have made, and must therefore acquaint you
+with the history of it.
+
+After the ball, continued he, monsieur the count de Bellfleur desired me
+to accompany him to his lodgings, and, as soon as we were alone, told
+me, he had a little secret to acquaint me with, but that, before he
+revealed it, he must have the promise of my assistance. As he spoke this
+with a gay and negligent air, I imagined it a thing of no great
+consequence, or if it were, he was a man of too much honour, and also
+knew me too well to desire or expect I would engage in any thing
+unbecoming that character: indeed I could think of nothing but an amour
+or a duel, tho' I was far from being able to guess of what service I
+could be to him in the former. I was, however, unwarily drawn in to give
+my word, and he then made me the confident of a passion, which, he said,
+had received its birth from the first moment he beheld the Belle
+Angloise, for by that term, pursued he, bowing, he distinguished the
+adorable Louisa: that he had made some discovery of his flame, but that
+finding; himself rejected, as he thought, in too severe a manner, and
+without affording him opportunity to attest his sincerity, he had
+converted his addresses, tho' not his passion, to a lady who, he
+perceived, had the care of her, acting in this manner, partly thro'
+picque at your disdain, and partly to gratify his eyes with the sight of
+you, which he has reason to fear you had totally deprived him of but for
+this stratagem. He confessed to me that he found the object of his
+pretended ardours infinitely more kind than she who inspires the real
+ones: but this gratification of his vanity is of little consequence to
+his peace;--he engaged me to attend you this day, to conjure you to
+believe his heart is incapable of being influenced by any other charms,
+and whatever he makes shew of to Melanthe, his heart is devoted wholly
+to you,--begs you to permit him to entertain you without the presence of
+that lady, the means of which he will take care to contrive; and charged
+me to assure you, that there is no sacrifice so great, but he will
+readily offer it to convince you of the sincerity of his attachment.
+
+This, madame, added he, is the unpleasing task my promise bound me to
+perform, and which I have acquitted myself of with the same pain that
+man would do who, by some strange caprice of fate, was constrained to
+throw into the sea the sum of all his hopes.
+
+The indignation which filled the virtuous foul of Louisa, while he was
+giving her this detail of the count's presumption, falsehood, and
+ingratitude, prevented her from giving much attention to the apology
+with which he concluded. Never, since the behaviour of mr. B----n at
+mrs. C--g--'s, had she met with any thing that she thought so much
+merited her resentment:--so great was her disdain she had not words to
+express it, but by some tears, which the rising passion forced from her
+eyes:--Heaven! cried she, which of my actions has drawn on me this
+unworthy treatment?--This was all she was able to utter, while she
+walked backward and forward in the room endeavouring to compose herself,
+and form some answer befitting of the message.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis looked on her all this while with admiration: all
+that seemed lovely in her, when he knew no more of her than that she was
+young and beautiful, was now heightened in his eyes almost to divine, by
+that virtuous pride which shewed him some part of her more charming
+mind. What he extremely liked before, he now almost adored; and having,
+by the loose manner in which the count had mentioned these two English
+ladies, imagined them women of not over-rigid principles, now finding
+his mistake, at least as concerning one of them, was so much ashamed and
+angry with himself for having been the cause of that disorder he was
+witness of, that he for some moments was equally at a loss to appease,
+as she who felt was to express it.
+
+But being the first that recovered presence of mind; madame, I beseech
+you, said he, involve not the innocent with the guilty:--I acknowledge
+you have reason to resent the boldness of the count; but I am no
+otherwise a sharer in his crime than in reporting it; and if you knew
+the pain it gave my heart while I complied with the promise I was
+unhappily betrayed into, I am sure you would forgive the misdemeanor of
+my tongue.
+
+Sir, answered she, I can easily forgive the slight opinion one so much a
+stranger to me as yourself may have of me; but monsieur the count has
+been a constant visitor to the lady I am with, ever since our arrival at
+Venice; and am very certain he never found any thing in my behaviour to
+him or any other person, which could justly encourage him to send me
+such a message:--a message, indeed, equally affrontive to himself, since
+it shews him a composition of arrogance, vanity, perfidy, and every
+thing that is contemptible in man.--This, sir, is the reply I send him,
+and desire you to tell him withal, that if he persists in giving me any
+farther trouble of this nature, I shall let him know my sense of it in
+the presence of Melanthe.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis then assured her he would be no less exact in
+delivering what she said, than he had been in the observance of his
+promise to the other, and conjured her to believe he should do it with
+infinite more satisfaction. He then made use of so many arguments to
+prove, that a man of honour ought not to falsify his word, tho' given to
+an unworthy person, that she was at last won to forgive his having
+undertaken to mention any thing to her of the nature he had done.
+
+Indeed, the agitations she had been in were more owing to the vexation
+that monsieur du Plessis was the person employed, than that the count
+had the boldness to apply to her in this manner; but the submission she
+found herself treated with by the former, convincing her that he had
+sentiments very different from those the other had entertained of her,
+rendered her more easy, and she not only forgave his share in the
+business which had brought him there, but also permitted him to repeat
+his visits, on condition he never gave her any cause to suspect the mean
+opinion the count had of her conduct had any influence on him.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIII.
+
+_Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable passion for her:
+her sentiments and way of acting on that occasion_.
+
+After the departure of monsieur du Plessis, Louisa fell into a serious
+consideration of what had passed between them: not all the regard, which
+she could not hinder herself from feeling for that young gentleman, nor
+the pleasure she took in reflecting on the respect he paid her, made her
+unmindful of what she owed Melanthe: the many obligations she had
+received from her, and the friendship she had for her in return, made
+her think she ought to acquaint her with the baseness of the count de
+Bellfleur, in order to prevent an affection which she found she had
+already too much indulged from influencing her to grant him any farther
+favours; but this she knew was a very critical point to manage, and was
+not without some apprehensions, which afterward she experienced were but
+too well grounded; that when that lady found herself obliged to hate the
+man she took pleasure in loving, she would also hate the woman who was
+the innocent occasion of it. Few in the circumstances Louisa was, but
+would have been swayed by this consideration, and chose rather to see
+another become the prey of perfidy and deceit, than fall the victim of
+jealousy herself; but the generosity of her nature would not suffer it
+to have any weight with her, and she thought she could be more easy
+under any misfortunes the discovery might involve her in, than in the
+consciousness of not having discharged the obligations of duty and
+gratitude in revealing what seemed so necessary to be known.
+
+With this resolution, finding Melanthe was not come home, she went into
+her chamber in order to wait her return, and relate the whole history to
+her as she should undress for bed. But hour after hour elapsing without
+any appearance of the person she expected, she thought to beguile the
+tedious time by reading; and remembering that Melanthe had a very
+agreeable book in her hand that morning, she opened a drawer, where she
+knew that lady was accustomed to throw any thing in, which she had no
+occasion to conceal; but how great was her surprise when, instead of
+what she sought, she found the letter from count de Bellfleur which
+Melanthe, in the hurry of spirits, had forgot to lock up. As it lay open
+and was from him, she thought it no breach of honour to examine the
+contents, but in doing so was ready to faint away between grief and
+astonishment.
+
+She was not insensible that Melanthe was charmed with this new lover,
+and had always feared her liking him would sway her to some
+imprudencies, but could not have imagined it would have carried her, at
+least so soon, to such a guilty length as she now found it did.
+
+Convinced by the hour in which she went out, and alone, that she had
+complied with the appointment, and that all she would have endeavoured
+to prevent was already come to pass, she now considered that the
+discovery she had to make would only render this indiscreet lady more
+unhappy, and therefore no longer thought herself obliged to run any
+risque of incuring her ill-will on the occasion; but in her soul
+extremely lamented this second fall from virtue, which it was impossible
+should not bring on consequences equally, if not more shameful than
+the first.
+
+Good God! cried she, how is it possible for a woman of any share of
+sense, and who has been blessed with a suitable education, to run thus
+counter to all the principles of religion, honour, virtue, modesty, and
+all that is valuable in our sex? and yet that many do, I have been a
+melancholy witness:--and then again, what is there in this love, resumed
+she, that so infatuates the understanding, that we doat on our
+dishonour, and think ruin pleasing?--Can any personal perfections in a
+man attone for the contempt he treats us with in courting us to
+infamy!--the mean opinion he testifies to have of us sure ought rather
+to excite hate than love; our very pride, methinks, should be a
+sufficient guard, and turn whatever favourable thoughts we might have of
+such a one, unknowing his design, into aversion, when once convinced he
+presumed upon our weakness.
+
+In these kind of reasonings did she continue some time; but reflecting
+that the trouble she was in might put Melanthe on asking the cause, it
+seemed best to her to avoid seeing her that night, so retired to her own
+room and went to bed, ordering the servants to tell their lady, in case
+she enquired for her, that she was a little indisposed.
+
+While Louisa was thus deploring a misfortune she wanted power to remedy,
+the person for whom she was concerned past her time in a far different
+manner: the count omitted nothing that might convince her of his
+gallantry, and give her a pretence for flattering herself with his
+sincerity:--he swore ten thousand oaths of constancy, and she easily
+gave credit to what she wished and had vanity enough to think she
+merited:--he had prepared every thing that could delight the senses for
+her reception at the house to which he carried her; and she found in
+herself so little inclination to quit the pleasures she enjoyed, that it
+was as much as the little remains of decency and care of reputation
+could do, to make her tear herself away before midnight.
+
+In the fullness of her heart she had doubtless concealed no part of this
+adventure from Louisa, but on hearing she was gone to rest, and not very
+well, would not disturb her. The first thing she did in the morning was
+to run into the chamber and enquire after her health, which she did in
+so affectionate and tender a manner, that it very much heightened the
+other's trouble for her.
+
+It is certain that, setting aside too loose a way of thinking of virtue
+and religion, and adhering to that false maxim, that a woman of rank is
+above censure, Melanthe had many amiable qualities, and as she truly
+loved Louisa, was alarmed at her supposed indisposition, which, to
+conceal the perplexity her mind was in, she still continued to
+counterfeit, as well as to avoid going to a masquerade, to which they
+had some days before been invited, and which the present situation of
+her thoughts left her no relish for.
+
+Melanthe would fain have perswaded her that this diversion would
+contribute to restoring her; but she entreated to be excused, and the
+other went without her.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis in the mean time having informed the count de
+Bellfleur, how much it was in vain for him to flatter himself with any
+hopes of Louisa, that proud and inconstant nobleman was extremely
+mortified, and said, that since she was so haughty, he was resolved to
+contrive some way or other to get her into his power, as well out of
+revenge as inclination. This, the other represented to him, would be a
+very ungenerous way of proceeding; and said, that as she refused his
+addresses merely out of a principle of virtue, and not for the sake of a
+more favoured rival, he ought to content himself; but these arguments
+were lost on a man whom pride of blood, and an affluence of fortune, had
+rendered too insolent and head-strong to think any thing reason which
+opposed his will; and they parted not well satisfied with each other,
+tho' du Plessis concealed part of the dislike he had of his principles
+and manner of behaviour, on account of a long friendship between their
+families, and also as the count was his superior in birth, in years, and
+in the post he held in the army.
+
+He had no sooner left him than he came to Louisa, thinking it his duty
+to give her warning of the count's design, and that it would be a proper
+prelude to something else he had to say. As the servants knew she was
+not perfectly well, they told him, they believed she would see no
+company; but on his entreating it, and saying he had something of moment
+to impart, one of them went in and repeated what he had said, on which
+she gave leave for his admission.
+
+He rejoiced to find her alone, as he came prepared to reveal to her more
+secrets than that of the count's menace; but the pleasure he took in
+having so favourable an opportunity was very much damped, by seeing her
+look more pale than usual, and that she was in a night-dress. Fearful
+that this change proceeded from what had passed between them the day
+before, he asked with a hastiness, that shewed the most kind concern, if
+she were well. No otherways disordered, answered she, than in my mind,
+and that not sufficiently to have any effect over my health; but to
+confess the truth, monsieur, said she, the continual round of diversion
+this carnival affords, has made what the world calls pleasure, cease to
+be so with me; and I find more solid satisfaction in retirement, where I
+am in no danger of being too much flattered or affronted.
+
+Ah! madam, cried he, I see the audacity of the count dwells too much
+upon your thoughts, and tremble to relate the business on which I came,
+and which it is yet necessary you should know. You mistake me, monsieur,
+replied she; a common foe of virtue, such as the count, is incapable of
+taking up my thoughts one moment; it is only those I love can give me
+real pain.
+
+I understand you, madam, resumed he, and am too much interested in your
+concern not to simpathize on the occasion: the misfortunes, such as I
+fear will attend the too great sensibility of Melanthe, may give you so
+terrible an idea of love in general, that it will be difficult to
+persuade you there can be any lasting happiness to be found in that
+passion:--but, charming Louisa, continued he, if you will make the least
+use of your penetration, and examine with a desire of being convinced,
+you will easily distinguish the real passion from the counterfeit: that
+love, whose supremest pleasure is in being capable to give felicity to
+the beloved object; and that wild desire, which aims at no more than a
+self-gratification:--the one has the authority of heaven for its
+sanction;--the other no excuse but nature in its depravity. From all
+attempts of the one, I am confident, your virtue and good sense will
+always defend you; but to fly with too great obstinacy the other, is not
+to answer the end of your creation; and deny yourself a blessing, which
+you seem formed to enjoy in the most extensive degree.
+
+Both the voice and manner in which monsieur du Plessis spoke, gave
+Louisa some suspicion of what he aimed at in this definition, and filled
+her at the same time with emotions of various kinds; but dissembling
+them as well as she could, and endeavouring to turn what he said into
+raillery, you argue very learnedly on this subject, it must be
+confessed, answered she smiling; but all you can urge on that head, nor
+the compliment you make me, can win me to believe that love of any kind
+is not attended with more mischief than good:--where it is accompanied
+with the strictest honour, constancy, purity, and all the requisites
+that constitute what is called a perfect passion, there are ordinarily
+so many difficulties in the way to the completion of its wishes, that
+the breast which harbours it must endure a continual agitation, which
+surely none would chuse to be involved in.
+
+Ah! madam, how little are you capable of judging of this passion, said
+he; there is a delicacy in love which renders even its pains pleasing,
+and how much soever a lover suffers, the thoughts of for whom he suffers
+is more than a compensation; I am myself an instance of this truth:--I
+am a lover:--conscious unworthiness of a suitable return of affection,
+and a thousand other impediments lie between me and hope, yet would I
+not change this dear anxiety for that insipid case I lived in before I
+saw the only object capable of making me a convert to love.--It is
+certain my passion is yet young; but a few days has given it root which
+no time, no absence, no misfortune ever can dislodge.--The charming maid
+is ignorant of her conquest:--the carnival draws near to a
+conclusion.--I must return to the army, and these cruel circumstances
+oblige me either to make a declaration which she may possibly condemn as
+too abrupt, or go and leave her unknowing of my heart, and thereby
+deprive myself even of her pity:--Which party, madam, shall I
+take?--Will the severe extreme, to which I am driven, be sufficient to
+attone for a presumption which else would merit her disdain?
+
+Louisa must have been as dull as she was really the contrary, not to
+have known all this was meant to herself; and the pleasing confusion
+which this discovery infused thro' all her veins, made her at the same
+time sensible of the difference she put between him and all those who
+before had entertained her on that subject; but not knowing presently
+whether she ought to attribute it to her good or ill fortune, she was
+wholly at a loss how to behave, and, to avoid giving any direct answer,
+still affected an air of pleasantry.
+
+See, cried she, the little reason you, have to speak in the praise of
+love; for if pity be all you have to hope for from your, mistress, I am
+afraid the consolation will be no way adequate to the misfortune.
+
+Yet if you vouchsafe me that, replied he, kissing her hard, I never
+shall complain. Me! interrupted she, pretending the utmost astonishment,
+and drawing her chair somewhat farther from him. Yes, beautiful Louisa,
+resumed he; it is you alone who have been capable of teaching me what
+love truly is:--your eyes, at first sight, subdued my heart; but your
+virtue has since made a conquest of my soul:--if I dare hope to make you
+mine, it is only by such ways as heaven, and those who have the power of
+disposing you, shall approve:--in the mean time I implore no more than
+your permission to admire you, and to convince you, by all the
+honourable services in my power to do you while you continue here, how
+much my words are deficient to denote my meaning.
+
+Louisa, now finding herself under a necessity of answering seriously,
+told him, that if it were true that he had sentiments for her of the
+nature he pretended, they would not only merit, but receive the most
+grateful acknowledgments on her part; but at the same time she should be
+sorry he had entertained them, and would wish him not to indulge a
+prospect which could last no longer than while both remained in Venice,
+and must infallibly vanish on their separation.
+
+No, madam, replied he, when the next campaign is over, I shall return to
+France; and sure the distance between that kingdom and England is not so
+great, but a less motive than yourself would easily carry me thither;
+and such credentials also of who, and what I am, as, I flatter myself,
+would not appear contemptible in the eyes of your friends:--the prospect
+therefore is not so visionary as you seem to think, provided I have
+your consent.
+
+The mention he made of her friends reminding her of her destitute
+condition, gave her the utmost shock; which not being able to overcome,
+she remained silent some moments; but at last perceiving he waited her
+reply, monsieur, said she, there may be a thousand indissoluble bars
+between us which you do not think of.
+
+None, interrupted he eagerly, but what such love as mine will easily
+surmount:--it is true, I am ignorant of your condition in the world; but
+if it be superior to mine, the passion I am possessed of will inspire me
+with means to raise me to an equality; and if inferior, which heaven
+grant may be the case, it will only give the opportunity of proving that
+I love Louisa for Louisa's self, and look upon every thing she brings
+beside as nothing.
+
+The emphasis he gave these words manifesting their sincerity, could not
+but give new charms to the person who spoke them: Louisa thought she
+might, without a blush, testify the sense she had of his generosity; but
+tho' what she said was perfectly obliging to him, yet she concluded with
+letting him know, there still was something that rendered the
+accomplishment of what he seemed to wish impossible.
+
+Then your heart already is engaged, cried he, or you are predestined by
+your parents to some happier man? Without either of these, answered she,
+there may be reasons to prevent our ever meeting more;--therefore I owe
+so much to the honourable offers you are pleased to make me, as to wish
+you to overcome whatever inclinations you may have for one who I once
+more assure you never can be yours.
+
+It would be impossible to express the distraction monsieur du Plessis
+testified at this expression:--a thousand times over did he repeat that
+dreadful word NEVER;--then added, neither engaged by love or promise,
+yet never can be mine! does my ill fate come wrap'd to me in
+riddles!--yet many things have seemed impossible that are not so in
+themselves:--O Louisa! continued he, if there be any thing beside my
+want of merit that impedes my wishes, and you delight not in my torment,
+speak it I conjure you.
+
+There is a necessity of denying you in this also, said Louisa; but to
+shew you how little I am inclined to be ungrateful, be certain that I
+have the highest idea of your merits, and prize them as much as I
+ought to do.
+
+These last words, obliging as they were, could not console monsieur du
+Plessis for the cruelty, as he termed it, of refusing to let him know
+what this invincible obstacle was which put a stop to any further
+correspondence between them: he spared neither prayers nor tears to draw
+the secret from her, but all were ineffectual; and she at last told him,
+that if he pressed her any farther on that head, she must for the future
+avoid his presence.
+
+This was a menace which he had not courage to dare the execution of, and
+he promised to conform to her will, tho' with such agonies, as shewed
+her how much he valued even the little she was pleased to grant; but it
+was not in the power of her perswasions to prevail on him to resolve to
+make any efforts for the vanquishing his passion; he still protested
+that he neither could cease to love her, and her alone, nor even to wish
+an alteration in his sentiments.
+
+By what has been already said of the extreme liking which the first
+fight of this young gentleman inspired Louisa with, it may easily be
+supposed she could not hear his complaints, and be witness of the
+anxieties she was enforced to inflict on him, without feeling at least
+an equal share: she endeavoured not to conceal the pity she had for him;
+but he now found that was far from being all he wanted, because it
+forwarded not, as he at first imagined, the progress of his hopes, but
+rather shewed them at more distance than ever.
+
+The business of his love so engrossed his thoughts during this visit,
+that he almost forgot to mention any thing of the count's designs upon
+her, and she as little remembered to remind him of it, tho' he told her
+on his entrance, that he had something to acquaint her with on his
+subject, and it was not till he was going to take leave that it came
+into his head. When he had related it to her, she assured him that she
+took the caution he gave her as a new proof of his friendship, which,
+said she, I shall always prize. At parting, she permitted him to salute
+her, and gave her promise not to refuse seeing him while they continued
+in that city; but told him at the same time, that he must not expect any
+thing from his repeated visits more than she had already granted.
+
+He durst not at that time press her any farther, but fetched a deep sigh
+as he went out of the room, accompanied with a look more expressive than
+any words could be of the discontent he laboured under, while she,
+oppressed beneath the double weight of his and her own grief, remained
+in a condition he was little able to form any conjecture of.
+
+Pleased as she was with the presence of the only man who had ever had
+power of inspiring her with one tender thought, yet a thousand times she
+had wished him gone before he went, that she might be at liberty to give
+vent to the struggling passions which were more than once ready to throw
+her into a swoon. The perfections she saw in the person of her
+lover;--the respect he treated her with, notwithstanding the violence of
+the passion he was possessed of;--the sincerity that appeared in all his
+looks and words;--the generosity of his behaviour in regard to her
+fortune;--all the qualifications that would have made any other woman
+blessed in the offer of such a heart, served but to make her wretched,
+since she could not look on herself in a condition capable of
+accepting it.
+
+Alas! du Plessis, cried she, little do you think to whom you would ally
+yourself:--you would, you say, despise a portion, but would you marry a
+foundling, a child of charity, one that has neither name nor friends,
+and who, in her best circumstances, is but a poor dependant, a servant
+in effect, tho' not in shew, and owes her very cloaths to the bounty of
+another?--Oh! why did the mistaken goodness of Dorilaus give me any
+other education than such as befitted my wretched fortune! Better I had
+been bred an humble drudge, and never been taught how to distinguish
+merit:--What avail the accomplishments that cost him so much money, and
+me so much pains to acquire, but to attract a short-liv'd admiration,
+which, when I am truly known, will be succeeded with an adequate
+derision:--Could I but say I was descended from honest, tho' mean
+parents, I would not murmur at my fate, but I have none,--none to own
+me;--I am a nothing,--a kind of reptile in humanity, and have been shewn
+in a genteel way of life only to make my native misery more conspicuous.
+
+Thus did love represent her unhappy circumstances in their worst
+colours, and render her, which till now she had never been, thankless to
+heaven for all the good she had received, since it seemed to deny her
+the only good her passion coveted, that of being in a condition to
+reward the affection of her dear du Plessis.
+
+A torrent of tears at length somewhat mitigated the violence of her
+passion, and unwilling to be seen by Melanthe in the present confusion
+of her thoughts, she went to bed, leaving the same orders as she had
+done the night before.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIV.
+
+_The base designs of the count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy change
+in Louisa's way of life; the generous behaviour of monsieur du Plessis
+on that occasion._
+
+Had the agonies Louisa suffered been of very long continuance, she must
+have sunk under them; but grief is easily dissipated in a young heart,
+and she awoke more tranquil.--The principles of religion grew stronger
+as her passion weaker, and she reflected that she ought to submit in
+every thing to the will of heaven, which sometimes converts what seems
+the greatest evil into good.--The offer of such a match as monsieur du
+Plessis, a man she loved, and who was master of accomplishments which
+might excuse the most violent passion, appeared indeed a happiness she
+would have gloried in had she been really such as he took her for; but
+then she had known him but a very short time, had no experience of his
+principles or humour; and tho' he seemed all honour, could not assure
+herself that the generosity which so much engaged her might not be all
+artifice; at least she found to think so would most contribute to her
+ease, therefore indulged it as much as she was able. She condemned
+herself for having given monsieur du Plessis permission to continue his
+visits, after having assured him he had nothing to hope from them,
+because a further conversation might only serve to render both more
+unhappy. She resolved however to give him no opportunity of talking to
+her of his passion, and in order to avoid thinking of it herself as much
+as possible, to go, as usual, into all company that came to Melanthe,
+and partake of every diversion that offered itself.
+
+Accordingly she forced herself to a gaiety, she was far from feeling,
+vainly imagining that by counterfeiting a chearfulness, she should in
+time be able to resume it; but du Plessis hung too heavy at her heart,
+and when she affected the greatest shew of mirth, it was often
+interrupted with sighs, which she was not always sensible of herself. He
+visited her almost every day under one pretence or other; but she took
+such care never to be alone at the times that she could possibly expect
+him, that he had not the least opportunity to renew his addresses, any
+otherways than by his looks, which, notwithstanding, were perfectly
+intelligible to her, tho' she seemed not to observe them.
+
+Melanthe, no longer able to keep the secret of her amour, finding
+Louisa, as she thought, had entirely regained her former sprightliness,
+acquainted her with all had passed between herself and count de
+Bellfleur; which, tho' the other was no stranger to, she seemed
+astonished at, and could not help telling her, that she feared the
+consequence of an intrigue of that nature would one day be fatal to her
+peace. Yet, said Melanthe, where one loves, and is beloved, it is hard
+to deny oneself a certain happiness for the dread of an imaginary
+ill.--In fine, my dear Louisa, I found I could not live without him; and
+heaven will sure excuse the error of an inclination which is born with
+us, and which not all our reason is of force to conquer.--But, added
+she, you always seem to speak of the count, as of a man that wanted
+charms to excuse the tenderness I have for him; and, I have observed,
+deny him those praises which I have heard you bestow very freely on
+persons that have not half his merit.
+
+Louisa knowing how vain it was to contest with inclination, in persons
+who are resolved to indulge it, and also that all advice was now too
+late, began to repent of what she said. If, madam, replied she, after a
+little pause, I have seemed unjust to the count's perfections, it was
+only because I feared you were but too sensible of them; for otherwise,
+it must be owned, he has a person and behaviour extremely engaging; but
+as the carnival will put an end to all the acquaintance we have
+contracted here, it gives me pain to think how you will support a
+separation.
+
+Perhaps it may not happen so soon as you imagine, said Melanthe:--tho'
+the carnival, and with it all the pleasures of this place will soon be
+over, our loves may be continued elsewhere:--suppose, Louisa, we go to
+France, added she with a significant smile, that shewed it was her
+intention to do so.
+
+Some company coming in, prevented any farther discourse on this head for
+the present; but afterward she confirmed what she had now hinted at, and
+told Louisa, that she had resolved to pass some little time in seeing
+those places which were in her way to France, and afterwards meet the
+count at Paris, on his return from the campaign. Louisa, unable to
+determine within herself whether she ought to rejoice, or be sad at this
+intended journey, fell into a sudden thoughtfulness, which the other at
+that time took no notice of, but it served afterwards to corroborate the
+truth of something she was told, and proved of consequence little to
+be foreseen.
+
+The inconstant count, in the mean time, satieted with Melanthe, and as
+much in love with Louisa as a man of his temper could be, was contriving
+all the ways his inventive wit could furnish him with to get handsomely
+rid of the one, and attain the enjoyment of the other. As he had spent
+many years in a continual course of gallantry, and had made and broke a
+thousand engagements, he easily found expedients for throwing off his
+intercourse with Melanthe, but none that could give him the least
+prospect of success in his designs on Louisa while they lived together
+and continued friends: to part them therefore was his aim, and to
+accomplish it the following method came into his head.
+
+On his first acquaintance with these ladies his design was wholly on
+Louisa, but meeting a rebuff from her, his vanity rather than his
+inclinations had made him turn his devoirs to Melanthe, who too easily
+yielding to his suit, served but to heighten his desires for the other:
+the extravagant fondness of that unhappy woman rendering her visibly
+uneasy at even the ordinary civilities she saw him behave with to any
+other, discovered to him that jealousy was not the least reigning foible
+of her foul, and the surest means to make her hate that person whom it
+was not the interest of his passion she should continue to love. When
+they were alone together one day at the place of their usual rendezvous,
+in the midst of the most tender endearments, he asked suddenly if she
+had ever made Louisa the confident of his happiness. She was a little
+surprized at the question, but answered that she had not, and desired to
+know the reason of that demand; because, cried he, I am very certain she
+is no friend to our loves; and by the manner in which she behaves to me,
+whenever she has the least opportunity of shewing her ill humour, I
+imagined she either knew or suspected the affair between us.
+
+Melanthe, conscious she had hid nothing from her, and also sensible of
+the little approbation she gave to her intrigue, was very much picqued
+that she should have done any thing to make the count perceive
+it;--whatever she suspects, cried she, haughtily, she ought not to treat
+with any ill manners a person whom I avow a friendship for. Vanity,
+answered he, sometimes gets the better of discretion in ladies of her
+years:--she knows herself handsome, and cannot have a good opinion of
+the man who prefers any charms to her own.--I imagine this to be the
+cause why she looks on me with such disdain, and, whenever you are not
+witness of her words, is so keen in satyrical reflections.--On our first
+acquaintance she looked and spoke with greater softness, and I can
+impute it to no other motive than the pride of beauty, that this sudden
+change has happened.
+
+All the time he was speaking, the soul of Melanthe grew more and more
+fired with jealousy.--It is natural for every one to imagine whatever
+they like is agreeable to others. The distaste which Louisa had on many
+occasions testified for the count, seemed now to have been only
+affected:--the melancholy she had been in, and the deep resvery she
+remembered she had fallen into when first she informed her of their
+amour, joined to convince her, that the advice she gave proceeded from a
+motive very different from what she pretended.
+
+The wily count saw into the workings of her soul; and while he seemed as
+if he would not discover the whole of his sentiments for fear of
+disobliging her, threw out the plainest hints, that Louisa had made him
+advances which would have been very flattering to a heart not
+pre-engaged, till Melanthe, not able to contain her rage, broke out into
+the fevered invectives against the innocent Louisa.--The ungrateful
+wretch! cried she, how dare she presume to envy, much less to offer an
+interruption to my pleasures!--What, have I raised the little wretch to
+such a forgetfulness of herself, that she pretends to rival her mistress
+and benefactress! In the height of her resentment, she related to the
+count in what manner she had taken her into her service; but that
+finding her, as she imagined, a girl of prudence, she had made her a
+companion during her travels, and as such treated her with respect, and
+made others do so too;--but, said she, I will reduce her to what she
+was, and since she knows not how to prize the honour of my friendship,
+make her feel the severities of servitude.
+
+Nothing could be more astonishing, and at the same time more pleasing to
+count Bellfleur than this discovery: what he felt for Louisa could not
+be called love, he desired only to enjoy her; and the knowledge of her
+meanness, together with Melanthe's resentment, which he doubted not but
+he should be able to improve to the turning her out of doors, made him
+imagine she would then be humbled enough to accept of any, offers he
+might make her.
+
+Pursuant to this cruel aim, he told Melanthe, that now not thinking
+himself under any obligation to conceal the whole of the affair, he must
+confess Louisa had not only made him advances, but gone so far as to
+discover a very great passion for him.--As I had never, said he, given
+her the least room to hope I was ambitious of any favours from her of
+that nature, I could not help thinking she was guilty of some
+indecencies ill-becoming a woman of condition, as well as infidelity to
+her friendship for you, whom she might well see I adored:--but alas! I
+little suspected the obligations she had to you, and now I know what she
+is, am in the utmost consternation at her ingratitude, impudence and
+stupidity. Heavens! added he, could she have the vanity to imagine that
+the genteel garb you had put her in, could raise her to such an
+equality, as to make me hesitate one moment if I should give the balance
+of merit on her side, and quit the amiable Melanthe for the pert charms
+of her woman?
+
+Melanthe, believing every thing he said on this occasion, was ready to
+burst with indignation; which impatient to give vent to, parted from her
+lover much sooner than she was accustomed, in order to wreak on the poor
+Louisa all that rage and malice could suggest.
+
+That innocent maid, little suspecting the misfortune that was falling on
+her, was at ombre with some ladies who came to visit them, when the
+furious Melanthe came home, and taking this opportunity of heightening
+her intended revenge by making it more public,--so, minx, said she to
+her, after having made her compliments to the company, you ape the woman
+of fashion exceeding well, as you imagine; but hereafter know yourself,
+and keep the distance that becomes you. With these words she gave her a
+push from the table in so rough a manner, that the cards fell out of
+her hand.
+
+It is hard to say whether Louisa herself, or the ladies who were
+present, were most astonished at this behaviour; every one looked one
+upon another without speaking for some time: at last Louisa, who wanted
+not spirit, and on this occasion testified an uncommon presence of
+mind,--if I have seemed otherways than what I am, madam, said she, it
+was your commands obliged me to it:--I never yet forgot myself, and
+shall as readily resume what distance you are pleased to enjoin me.
+Insolent, ungrateful wretch, cried Melanthe, vexed to the soul to find
+her seem so little shocked at what she had done, if I permitted you any
+liberties, it was because I thought you merited them;--but get out of my
+sight, and dare not to come into it again till I send for you. I shall
+obey you, madam, replied Louisa, and perhaps be as well pleased to be
+your servant as companion.
+
+This resignation and seeming tranquility under an insult, she expected
+would have been so mortifying, was the greatest disappointment could be
+given to Melanthe, and increased her rage to such a degree, that she
+flew to her as she was going out of the room, and struck her several
+blows, using at the same time expressions not decent to repeat, but
+such, as in some unguarded moments, women of quality level themselves
+with the vulgar enough to be guilty of. This is a behaviour, madam,
+which demeans yourself much more than me, said Louisa, and when reason
+gets the better of your passion, I doubt not but you will be just enough
+to acknowledge you have injured me.
+
+She got out of the room with these words, but heard Melanthe still
+outrageous in her reproaches; but determined not to answer, made what
+haste she could into her own chamber, where having shut herself in, she
+gave a loose to the distraction so unexpected an event must
+naturally occasion.
+
+Pride is a passion so incident to human nature, that there is no breast
+whatever that has not some share of it; and it would be to describe
+Louisa such as no woman ever was, or ever can be, especially at her
+years, to say she was not sensibly touched at the indignity she had
+received from a person, but a few hours before, had treated her as
+pretty near an equality with herself.--Nor was her amazement inferior to
+her grief, when after examining, with the utmost care, all her words and
+actions, she could find nothing in either that could possibly give
+occasion for this sudden turn.
+
+From the present, she cast thoughts back on the past accidents of her
+life, and comparing them together, how cruelly capricious is my fate,
+said she, which never presents me with a good but to be productive of an
+adequate evil!--How great a blessing was the protection and tenderness I
+found from Dorilaus, yet how unhappy did the too great increase of that
+tenderness render, me!--What now avails all the friendship received from
+Melanthe, but to make me the less able to support her ill usage!--And
+what, of what advantage is it to me that I am beloved by a man the most
+worthy to be loved, since I am of a condition which forbids me to give
+any encouragement to his, or my own wishes!
+
+In this manner did she pour forth the troubles of her soul, till the
+hour of supper being arrived, Melanthe's woman knocked at the chamber,
+and Louisa having opened it, she told her that she was sorry to see such
+an alteration in the family, but it was her ladyship's pleasure that she
+should eat at the second table. It is very well, said Louisa, resolving,
+whatever she endured, not to let Melanthe see any thing she could do
+disturbed her too much, and in saying so, went with her into the hall
+and sat down to table, but with what appetite I leave the reader
+to guess.
+
+Melanthe, who now hated her to a greater degree than ever she had loved
+her, gave to the ladies who were with her the whole history of Louisa,
+as far as she knew of it, and rather aggravated, than any way softened
+the mean condition from which she had relieved her; but when they asked
+her what that unhappy creature had done to forfeit a continuance of her
+goodness, she only answered in general, that she had found her to be an
+ungrateful and perfidious wretch.
+
+As she mentioned no particular influence on which this accusation was
+grounded, every one was at liberty to judge of it as they pleased.--The
+accomplishments Louisa was mistress of, made every one convinced she had
+been educated in no mean way, tho' by some accidents she might have been
+reduced to the calamities Melanthe had so largely expatiated upon, and
+more there were who pitied her than approved the behaviour of her
+superior:--some indeed, who had envied the praises they had heard
+bestowed on her, were rejoiced at her fall, and made it a matter of
+mirth wherever they came;--and others again thought themselves affronted
+by having a person, who they now found was no more than a servant,
+introduced into their company, and would never visit Melanthe afterward
+the whole time she stayed in Venice.
+
+The affair, however, occasioned a great deal of discourse: monsieur du
+Plessis heard of it the next day related after different fashions. The
+concern he was in was conformable to the passion he had for the fair
+occasion, and both beyond what is ordinarily to be found in persons of
+his sex. Impatient to know the truth he went to Melanthe's, and she
+happening to be abroad, he desired to speak to Louisa, but was told she
+was indisposed, and could see no company. These orders had been given by
+Melanthe, but were very agreeable to Louisa herself, who desired to
+avoid the sight of every one she had conversed with in a different
+manner from what she could now expect; but of the whole world this
+gentleman she most wished to shun.
+
+He concealed the trouble he was in as well as he was able, and affecting
+a careless air, told the person who answered him, that he only came to
+ask if she had heard the last new song, and that he would send it
+to her.
+
+The moment he came home he sat down and wrote the following billet.
+
+_To the ever charming_ LOUISA.
+
+"That invincible bar you mentioned, yet
+made so great a secret of, is at last revealed,
+and I should be unworthy of the blessing I aspire
+to, if I were unable to surmount it.
+Cruel Louisa! you little know me, or the force
+of that passion you have inspired, to imagine
+that any difference which chance may have put
+between us, can make the least alteration in my
+sentiments!--It is to your own perfections I
+have devoted my heart, not to the merit or
+grandeur of your ancestors. What has my love
+to do with fortune, or with family!--Does a
+diamond lose any thing of its intrinsic value for
+being presented by an unknown, or an obscure
+hand?--My eyes convince me of the charms
+of my adored Louisa; my understanding shews
+me those of her mind; and if heaven vouchsafes
+to bless me with so rich a jewel, I never shall
+examine whence it came.--If therefore I am
+not so unhappy as to be hated by you, let not
+vain punctilloes divide us, and, as the first proof
+of my inviolable passion, permit me to remove
+you from a place where you have met with such
+unworthy treatment:--I hope you wrong me
+not so far as to suspect I any other designs
+on you than such as are consistent with the
+strictest honour; but to prevent all scruples of
+that nature from entering your gentle breast, I
+would wish to place you in a convent, the
+choice of which shall be your own, provided it
+may be where I sometimes may be allowed to
+pay my vows to you thro' the grate, till time
+shall have sufficiently proved my fidelity, and
+you shall prevail on yourself to recempence my
+flame, by bestowing on me your hand and heart:--the
+one I would not ask without the other;
+but both together would render the happiest of
+mankind.
+
+_Your eternally devoted_
+
+Du Plessis.
+
+_P.S._ As I perceive it will be next to an impossibility
+to gain a sight of you while you continue
+with that ungenerous woman, I entreat
+to know by a line how I stand in your opinion,
+and if the offers I make you, in the sincerity
+of my soul, may be thought worthy
+your acceptance."
+
+
+This epistle he ordered his valet de chambre to give to her own hand, if
+there were a possibility of it; and the fellow so well executed his
+commission, being acquainted with Melanthe's servants, that he was
+carried directly up to her chamber. She was a little surprized to see
+him, because she knew it was contrary to Melanthe's commands that any
+one should see her; and doubted not but to find she was treated with any
+kind of respect, would enhance her ill humour to her. But she said
+nothing that discovered her sentiments on this point, and with all the
+appearance of a perfect ease of mind, asked what he had to deliver to
+her. Only a song, mademoiselle, answered he, which my master ordered me
+to give you, and to desire you will let him know how you like it:--he
+says it might be turned into an admirable duetto, and begs you would
+employ your genius on that score and send it by me.
+
+Poor Louisa, who took his words literally, and thought her present
+circumstances too discordant for the fulfilling his request, opened the
+supposed piece of music with an aking heart; but when she had perused
+it, and found the artifice her lover had made use of to communicate his
+generous intentions to her, it is extremely fine, said she to the valet,
+and I will do what he requires to the best of my power, but fear I shall
+not be able to give it such a turn as he may expect. If you please,
+continued she, to wait a little, I shall not be long before I dispatch
+you. In speaking these words she went into her closet, and read over and
+over the offers he had made, in which, with the strictest examination,
+she could find nothing but what indicated the most perfect love, honour,
+and generosity. In the first transports of her soul she was tempted to
+comply; but her second thoughts were absolutely against it.--Those very
+reasons which would have prevailed with almost any other woman, made her
+obstinate to refuse:--the more she found him worthy, the less could she
+support the thoughts of giving him a beggar for a wife; and the more she
+loved him, the less could she content to be obliged to him; so she took
+but a small time for consideration, before she returned an answer in
+these terms:
+
+_To the most accomplished, and most generous monsieur_ DU PLESSIS.
+
+
+"As it was not owing to my pride or vanity,
+but merely compliance with the will of
+Melanthe, that my real meanness was made a
+secret, I find it revealed without any mortification;
+but, monsieur, the distance between us
+is not shortened by being known: as the consciousness
+of my unworthiness remains with
+me, and ever must do so, I again repeat the
+impossibility of accepting your too generous passion,
+and, after this, you will not wonder I
+should refuse those other obliging offers you are
+so good to make.--I left my native country
+with Melanthe, devoted myself to her service
+while she was pleased to continue me in it, and
+only wait her commands for my doing so, or to
+return to England.--I believe, by what her
+woman told me this day, the latter will be my
+fate.--Think not, however, most truly worthy
+of your whole sex, that I want eyes to distinguish
+your merits, or a heart capable of being
+influenced by them, perhaps too deeply for my
+own future peace:--this is a confession I would
+not have made, were I ever to see you more;
+but as I am determined to shut myself from all
+the world during my abode at Venice, I thought
+I owed this little recompence to the generous
+affection you express for me, and had rather you
+should think any thing of me, than that I am
+ungrateful.
+
+LOUISA.
+
+_P.S._ I beg, monsieur, after this, you will not
+attempt either to speak or write to me."
+
+
+When she had sent this away, she fell into fresh complainings at the
+severity of her fate, which constrained her to refuse what most she
+languished for:--the uncertainty how she should be disposed of was also
+a matter of grief:--she was at this time a prisoner in Melanthe's house:
+she had sent several messages to that lady, by her woman, entreating to
+know in what she had offended, but could receive no other answer than
+abuses, without one word which gave her the least light into the cause
+of this strange treatment; but that morning she was informed, by the
+same woman, that her Lady protested she should never more come into her
+presence, and that she would send her home: this, as she had wrote to
+monsieur du Plessis, seemed highly probable, as there was no appearance
+of a reconciliation; and the thoughts in what manner she should begin
+her life again, on her return, filled her with many anxieties, which,
+joined to others of a different nature, rendered her condition
+truly pitiable.
+
+It was in the midst of these perplexing meditations that word was
+brought her from Melanthe, that she must prepare for her departure on
+the ensuing day. It was in vain she again begged leave to see her, and
+to be made acquainted with the reason of her displeasure; but the other
+would not be prevailed upon, but sent her a purse sufficient to defray
+the expences of her journey to England, and bid her woman tell her she
+had no occasion to repine, for she turned her away in a much better
+condition than she had found her.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XV.
+
+_Louisa is in danger of being ravished by the count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+particulars_.
+
+Louisa packed up her things, as she had been commanded, tho' with what
+confusion of mind is not easy to be expressed; and, when she was ready
+to go, wrote a letter to Melanthe, thanking her for all the favours she
+had received from her, acknowledging them to be as unmerited as her late
+displeasure, which she conjured her to believe she had never, even in
+thought, done any thing justly to incur;--wished her prosperity, and
+that she might never find a person less faithful to her interests than
+she had been. Having desired her woman to deliver this to her, she took
+leave of the servants, who all loved her extremely, and saw her go with
+tears in their eyes.
+
+The rout she intended to take was to Padua by water, thence in a post
+chaise to Leghorn, where she was informed, it would be easy to find a
+ship bound for England; to what port was indifferent to her, being now
+once more to seek her fortune, tho' in her native country, and must
+trust wholly to that providence for her future support, which had
+hitherto protected her.
+
+Accordingly she took her passage to Padua in one of those boats, which
+are continually going between Venice and that city; and it being near
+the close of day when she landed, was obliged to go into an inn,
+designing to lye there that night, and early in the morning set out
+for Leghorn.
+
+She was no sooner in bed than, having never been alone in one of those
+places before, a thousand dreadful apprehensions came into her head: all
+the stories she had been told, when a child, of robberies and murders
+committed on travellers in inns, were now revived in her memory:--every
+little noise she heard made her fall into tremblings; and the very
+whistling of the wind, which at another time would have lulled her to
+sleep, now kept her waking: but these ideal terrors had not long
+possessed her, before she had an occasion of real ones, more shocking
+than her most timid fancy could have suggested.
+
+The wicked count de Bellfleur, who had taken care to prevent the passion
+he had excited in Melanthe against her from growing cool, learned, from
+that deceived lady, in what manner she intended to dispose of her; and
+no sooner heard which way she went than, attended by one servant, who
+was the confidant and tool of all his vices, he took boat for Padua, and
+presently finding out, by describing her, at what inn she was lodged,
+came directly thither; and, having called the man of the house, asked
+him if such a young woman were not lodged there, to which being answered
+in the affirmative, he told him that she was his wife;--that being but
+lately married to her, in compliance with her request, he had brought
+her to see the diversions of the carnival, and that she was eloped, he
+doubted not, but for the sake of a gallant, since he loved her too well
+to have given her any cause to take so imprudent a step.
+
+The concern he seemed to be under gained immediate credit to all he
+said; which he easily perceiving, I know, said he, that if I have
+recourse to a magistrate I shall have a grant, and proper officers to
+force her to return to her duty; but I would feign reclaim her by fair
+means:--it is death to me to expose her; and if my perswasions will be
+effectual, the world shall never know her fault.
+
+The innkeeper then told him she was gone to bed, but he would wait on
+him to her chamber, and he might call to her to bid her open the door.
+No, answered the count, if she hears my voice she may, perhaps, be
+frighted enough to commit some desperate action:--you shall therefore
+speak to her, and make some pretence for obliging her to rise.
+
+On this they both went up, and the man knocked softly at first, but on
+her not answering immediately, more loud.--She, who heard him before,
+but imagining something of what she had heard of others was now going to
+happen to herself, was endeavouring to assume all the courage she could
+for supporting her in whatever exigence heaven should reduce her to:--at
+last she asked who was there, and for what reason she was disturbed. The
+innkeeper then said he wanted something out of the room, and she must
+needs open the door. This she refused to do, but got out of bed and
+began to put on her cloaths, resolving to dye as decently as she could,
+verily believing they were come to rob and murder her.
+
+The man, who spoke all by the count's direction, then told her, that if
+she would not open the door, he must be obliged to break it, and
+presently beat so violently against it, that the poor terrified Louisa
+expected it to burst, so thought it would be better to unbolt it of her
+own accord, than, by a vain resistance, provoke worse usage than she
+might otherwise receive: but what was her astonishment when she beheld
+the count de Bellfleur! On the first moment the words monsieur du
+Plessis repeated to her, that _he would have her one way or another,_
+came into her mind, and made her give a great shriek; but then almost at
+the same time the thought that he might possibly be sent by Melanthe to
+bring her back, somewhat mitigated her fears.--Unable was she to speak,
+however; and the consternation she appeared to be in at his presence,
+joined with his taking her by the hand and bidding her be under no
+apprehensions, confirmed the truth of what he had told the innkeeper,
+who thinking he had no other business there, and they would be soonest
+reconciled when alone, left them, together and went down stairs.
+
+When the count saw he was gone,--I could not support the thoughts of
+seeing you no more, my dear Louisa, said he; I have heard Melanthe's
+cruel usage of you, and also that your condition is such, that you have
+no friends in England to receive you if you should prosecute your
+journey:--I come therefore to make you an offer, which, in your present
+circumstances, you will find it imprudent, I believe, to reject:--I long
+have loved you, and if you will be mine, will keep you concealed at a
+house where I can confide, till my return to the army; then will take
+the fame care of you, and place you somewhere near my own quarters; and,
+as I shall go to Paris as soon as the next campaign is over, will there
+provide for you in as handsome a manner as you can wish;--for be
+assured, dear lovely girl, that no woman upon earth will ever be capable
+of making me forsake you.
+
+That she had patience to hear him talk so long in this manner, was
+wholly owing to the fear and surprize she had been in, and perhaps had
+not yet recovered enough from, to make any reply to what he said, if he
+had contented himself only with words; but his actions rouzing a
+different passion in her soul, she broke from his arms, into which, he
+had snatched her at the conclusion of his speech, and looking on him
+with eyes sparkling with disdain and rage,--perfidious man! cried she,
+is this,--this the consequence of the vows you made Melanthe; and do you
+think, after this knowledge of your baseness, I can harbour any idea of
+you, but what is shocking and detestable!
+
+I never loved Melanthe, by heaven, resumed he; she made me advance, and
+not to have returned, them, would have called even my common civility in
+question;--but from the first moment I saw your beauties, I was
+determined to neglect nothing that might give me the enjoyment of
+them:--fortune has crowned my wishes, you are in my power, and it would
+be madness in you to lose the merit of yielding, and I compel me to be
+obliged to my own strength for a pleasure I would rather owe to your
+softness:--come, come, continued he, after having fastened the door, let
+us go to bed;--I will save your modesty, by pulling your cloaths off
+myself. In speaking this he catched hold of her again, and attempted to
+untye a knot which fastened her robe de chambre at the breast. On this
+she gave such shrieks, and stamped with her feet so forcibly on the
+ground, that the innkeeper fearing the incensed husband, as he supposed
+him to be, was going to kill her, ran hastily up stairs, and called to
+have the door opened, saying, he would have no murder in his house.
+
+The artful count immediately let him in, and told him, he need be under
+no apprehensions, his wife was too dear to him to suffer any thing from
+his resentment; and all the noise you heard, said he, was only because I
+insisted on her going to bed! By these words Louisa discovered how he
+had imposed upon the man, and cried out she was not his wife; but as she
+spoke very bad Italian, and the man understood no French, the count
+being very fluent in that language, had much the advantage, the
+innkeeper was fully satisfied, and they were again left alone, having a
+second opportunity to prosecute his villanous attempt.
+
+You see, said he, how much in vain it is for you to resist:--would it
+not be wiser in you, therefore, to meet my flames with equal warmth;--to
+feign a kindness even if you have none, and thereby oblige me to use you
+with a future tenderness:--believe I love you now with an extravagance
+of fondness:--it is in your power to preserve that affection for
+ever:--give me then willingly that charming mouth.
+
+He had all this time been kissing her with the utmost eagerness, so that
+with all her struggling she had not been able either to disengage
+herself from his embrace, or to utter one word; and he was very near
+forcing from her yet greater liberties, when all at once heaven gave her
+strength to spring suddenly from him, and running to a table where he
+had laid his sword, she drew it out of the scabbard with so much speed,
+that he could not prevent her, and making a push at him with one hand,
+kept him from closing with, or disarming her, till with the other she
+had plucked back the bolt of the door.
+
+In this posture she flew down stairs, and reached the hall before he
+overtook her, quite breathless and ready to faint. He was going to lay
+hold of her, when he found himself seized behind by two persons, whom,
+on turning to examine the reason, he found was monsieur du Plessis and
+the innkeeper. He started at the sight of that gentleman, and was going
+to say somewhat to him in French, when the innkeeper told him, the young
+woman should be molested no farther till he knew the truth of the
+affair; for, said he, there is a person, meaning monsieur du Plessis,
+who is just come in, and says she has no husband, and belongs to an
+English lady of quality now at Venice:--I will therefore take care of
+her this night, and if you have any real claim to her, you may make it
+out before the magistrate to-morrow.
+
+The count was so enraged to find it had been by monsieur du Plessis he
+had been disappointed, that he snatched his sword from Louisa, who had
+all this time held it in her hand, and made so furious a thrust at him,
+that, had he not been more than ordinary nimble in avoiding it, by
+stepping aside, it must have infallibly gone thro' his body.--He
+immediately drew and stood on his defence, but the innkeeper and several
+other people, whom Louisa's cries had by this time brought into the
+hall, prevented any mischief.
+
+The confusion of voices and uproar which this accident occasioned, would
+suffer nothing to be heard distinctly; but the guilt of count Bellfleur
+might easily be read in his looks, and not able to stand the test of any
+enquiry, he departed with his servant, casting the most malicious
+reflections as he went out, both on Louisa and her deliverer.
+
+Du Plessis less affected, because innocent, gave every one the
+satisfaction they desired: he said that the young lady being of English
+birth, came along with a lady of her own country, to visit several parts
+of Europe merely for pleasure; that the lady was still at Venice, and
+that on some little disgust between them, she who was there, meaning
+Louisa, had quitted her, and was now returning home by the way of
+Leghorn; of the truth of what he told them, he added, they might be
+informed, by sending to Venice the next day.
+
+He also said, that having a business to be negotiated in England, he had
+followed this young lady, in order to beg the favour of her to deliver
+letters to some friends he had there, not having the opportunity of
+making this request before, by reason of her departure having been so
+sudden, that he knew nothing of it before she was gone.
+
+The truth of all this Louisa confirmed, and on farther talk of the
+affair, acquainted them, that the gentleman who had occasioned this
+disturbance, for she forbore mentioning his name, had often sollicited
+her love on unlawful terms, and being rejected by her, had taken this
+dishonourable way of compassing his desires, at a place where he knew
+she was alone, and wholly a stranger.
+
+The fright and confusion she had been in, had rendered her so faint,
+that it was with infinite difficulty she brought out these words; but
+having something given her to refresh her spirits, and being conducted
+into another room out of the crowd, she began, by degrees, to
+recover herself.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis then informed her, that on coming to Melanthe's, and
+hearing she was gone, he immediately took boat, resolving to prevail on
+her to alter her resolution of going to England, or dye at her feet:
+that he easily found the inn she was at, and that the man of the house
+presently told him, such a person as he described was there; but that he
+understood she had eloped from her husband, who had pursued, and was now
+above with her.
+
+Never, said this faithful lover, did any horror equal what I felt at
+this intelligence!--The base count de Bellfleur came presently into my
+mind:--I thought it could be no other who had taken this abhored method
+of accomplishing the menaces you may remember I repeated to you:--I was
+going to fly up stairs that instant, but was withheld, and found it best
+to argue the man into reason, who, I found, was fully prepossessed you
+were his wife: as I was giving some part of your history, I saw the
+count's man passing thro' the hall; he saw me too, and would have
+avoided me, but I ran to him, seized him by the throat, and asked him
+what business had brought either him or his master to this place: the
+disorder he was in, and the hesitation with which he spoke, together
+with refusing to give any direct answer, very much staggered the
+innkeeper, who was just consenting to go up with me to your chamber, and
+examine into the truth of this affair, when we saw you come down, armed
+as your virtue prompted, and at the same time flying from the
+villain's pursuit.
+
+Louisa could not help confessing that she owed the preservation of her
+honour wholly to him; for, said she, the people were so fully persuaded
+not only that I was his wife, but also that I had fled from him on some
+unwarrantable intent, that all I did, or could have done, would only
+have served to render me more guilty in their opinion; and it must have
+been by death alone I could have escaped the monster's more
+detested lust.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis now made use of every argument that love and wit
+could inspire, to prevail with her to accept of the offer contained in
+the letter he had wrote to her; and concluded with reminding her, that
+if the charming confession her answer had made him was to be depended
+on, and that she had indeed a heart not wholly uninfluenced by his
+passion, she would not refuse agreeing to a proposal, which not the most
+rigid virtue and honour could disapprove.
+
+Louisa on this replied with blushes, that since, by the belief she
+should never see him more, she had been unwarily drawn in to declare
+herself so far, she neither could, nor would attempt to deny what she
+had said; but, added she, it is perhaps, by being too much influenced by
+your merits, that I find myself obliged to refuse what you require of
+me:--I cannot think, cried she, of rendering unhappy a person who so
+much deserves to be blessed:--and what but misery would attend a match
+so unequal as yours would be with me!--How would your kindred brook
+it!--How would the world confuse and ridicule the fondness of an
+affection so ill placed!--What would they say when they should hear the
+nobly born, the rich, and the accomplished monsieur du Plessis, had
+taken for his wife a maid obscurely defended, and with no other dowry
+than her virtue!--My very affection for you would, in the general
+opinion, lose all its merit, and pass for sordid interest:--I should be
+looked upon as the bane of your glory;--as one whose artifices had
+ensnared you into a forgetfulness of what you owed to yourself and
+family, and be despised and hated by all who have a regard for
+you.--This, monsieur, continued she, is what I cannot bear, neither for
+your sake nor my own, and entreat you will no farther urge a suit, which
+all manner of considerations forbid me to comply with.
+
+The firmness and resolution with which she uttered these words, threw
+him into the most violent despair; and here might be seen the difference
+between a sincere and counterfeited passion: the one is timid, fearful
+of offending, and modest even to its own loss;--the other presuming,
+bold, and regardless of the consequences, presses, in spight of
+opposition, to its desired point.
+
+Louisa had too much penetration not to make this distinction: she saw
+the truth of his affection in his grief, and that awe which deterred him
+from expressing what he felt:--she sympathized in all his pains, and for
+every sigh his oppressed heart sent forth, her own wept tears of blood;
+yet not receding from the resolution she had formed, nothing could be
+more truly moving than the scene between them.
+
+At length he ceased to mention marriage, but conjured her to consider
+the snares which would be continually laid, by wicked and designing men,
+for one so young and beautiful:--that she could go no where without
+finding other Bellfleurs; and she might judge, by the danger she had
+just now so narrowly escaped, of the probability of being involved again
+in the same:--he represented to her, in the most pathetic terms, that
+her innocence could have no sure protection but in the arms of a
+husband, or the walls of a convent; and on his knees beseeched her, for
+the sake of that virtue which she so justly prized, since she would not
+accept of him for the one, to permit him to place her in that other only
+asylum for a person in her circumstances.
+
+Difficult was it for her to resist an argument, the reason of which she
+was so well convinced of, and could offer nothing in contradiction to,
+but that she had a certain aversion in her nature to receive any
+obligations from a man who had declared himself her lover, and who might
+possibly hereafter presume upon the favours he had done her.
+
+It was in vain he complained of her unjust suspicion in this point,
+which, to remove, he protested to her that he would leave the choice of
+the monastry wholly to herself: that in whatever part she thought would
+be most agreeable, he would conduct her; and that, after she was
+entered, he would not even attempt to see her thro' the grate, without
+having first received her permission for his visit. Not all this was
+sufficient to assure her scrupulous delicacy: she remained constant in
+her determination; and all he could prevail on her, was leave to attend
+her as far as Leghorn, to secure her from any second attempt the
+injurious count might possibly make.
+
+After this they entered into some discourse of Melanthe, and whether it
+would be proper for Louisa to write her an account of this affair, and
+the count's perfidiousness. Monsieur du Plessis said, he thought that
+the late usage she had received from that lady, deserved not she should
+take any interest in her affairs; but it was not this that hindered
+Louisa from doing it:--the remembrance of the kindness she had once been
+treated with by her, more than balanced, in her way of thinking, all the
+insults that succeeded it; and when she reflected how much Melanthe
+loved the count, and that she had already granted him all the favours in
+her power, it seemed to her rather an act of cruelty than friendship, to
+acquaint her with this ingratitude, and thereby anticipate a misfortune,
+which, perhaps, by his artifices and continued dissimulation, might be
+for a long time concealed: therefore, for this reason, she exacted a
+promise from monsieur du Plessis not to make any noise of this affair
+at his return to Venice, unless the count, by some rash and precipitate
+behaviour, should enforce him to it.
+
+This injunction discovered so forgiving a sweetness of disposition in
+the person who made it, that monsieur du Plessis could not refrain
+testifying his admiration by the most passionate exclamations; in which
+perhaps he had continued longer, had not the eyes of the fair object
+discovered a certain languishment, which reminded him, he should be
+wanting in the respect he professed, to detain her any longer from that
+repose, which, seemed necessary, after the extraordinary hurry of
+spirits she had sustained; therefore having taken his leave of her for
+that night, retired to a chamber he had ordered to be got ready for him,
+as did she to that where she had been so lately disturbed: but all those
+who are in the least capable of any idea of those emotions, which
+agitated the minds of both these amiable persons, will believe neither
+of them slept much that night.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVI.
+
+_The Innkeepers scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: her
+behavior on the discovery of the count's falshood. Louisa changes her
+resolution and goes to Bolognia_.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis, having found it impossible to dissuade Louisa from
+going to England, now bent his whole thoughts to perform his promise of
+conducting her to Leghorn, in the most commodious manner he could;
+accordingly he rose very early, and calling for the man of the house,
+desired he would provide a handsome post chaise, and if he knew any
+fellows whose integrity might be relied on, he thought necessary to hire
+two such, who, furnished with fire-arms, might serve as a guard against
+any attack the count might take it into his head to make.
+
+But the innkeeper had now entertained notions that forbid him to
+correspond with the designs of monsieur: some of his neighbours, who had
+heard of last night's accident, whispered it in his ears, that it would
+not be safe for him to let these young people depart together; that he
+could not be assured the person, who pretended to be the husband, might
+not be so in reality; and if he should come again with proper officers
+and proofs to claim his wife, it might be of dangerous consequence to
+him to have favoured her escape; and that the only way he had to secure
+himself from being brought into trouble, was to lay the whole affair
+before the podestat. This advice seemed to him too reasonable not to be
+complied with: he went directly to that magistrate, and while the lover
+was speaking to him, officers came in to seize both him and Louisa, and
+carry them before the podestat.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was very much surprized and vexed at this
+interruption, and the more so, as he feared it would terrify Louisa to a
+greater degree than the nature of the thing required; but in this he did
+injury to her courage: when she was called up and informed of the
+business, she surrendered herself with all the dauntlessness of
+innocence to the officers, and suffered them to conduct her, with du
+Plessis, to the house of the podestat.
+
+Both of them flattered themselves with the belief, that when he should
+come to hear the story, they would be immediately discharged; but he
+happened to be one of those who are over wary in the execution of their
+office; and he only told them, that what they said might be true, but he
+was not to take things on the bare word of the parties themselves; and
+that therefore they must be confined till either the person who claimed
+the woman for his wife, should bring proofs she was so, or she should be
+able to make out he had no right over her.
+
+That is easy for me to do, said Louisa; I am only concerned that this
+gentleman, meaning du Plessis, should be detained on an account he has
+no manner of interest in. The podestat answered, it was unavoidable,
+because as the person, who said he was her husband, had accused her of
+an elopement, there was all the reason in the world to suppose that if
+it were so, it was in favour of this gentleman, by the rage he was
+informed he had testified at finding him in Padua.
+
+Louisa gave only a scornful smile, denoting how much she disdained a
+crime of the nature she was suspected of, and followed one of the
+officers, who conducted her to the place appointed for her confinement.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was touched to the soul at the indignity he thought
+offered to this sovereign of his affections; but he restrained himself
+when he considered that it had the sanction of law, which in all nations
+must be submitted to; and he only told the podestat, that the virtue of
+that lady would soon be cleared, to the confusion of those who had
+presumed to traduce it.
+
+As, after they were under confinement, they had no opportunity of
+advising each other what to do, monsieur du Plessis, uneasy at the
+injustice done him, wrote immediately to the prince of Conti, in
+these terms:
+
+_To his Royal Highness the Prince of_ CONTI.
+
+
+"It is with the extremest reluctance I give
+your royal highness this trouble, or find myself
+obliged to accuse the count de Bellfleur of
+an action so dishonourable to our nation; but
+as I am here under confinement for preventing
+him from committing a rape on a young English
+lady, who failing to seduce at Venice, he followed
+hither; and under the pretence of being
+her husband, gained the people of the house on
+his side, and had infallibly compassed his intent,
+had it not been for my seasonable interposition:
+I am too well convinced of the justice I presume
+to implore, to doubt if your highness will
+oblige him to clear up the affair to the podestat,
+on which she will be at liberty to prosecute her
+journey, and I to throw myself, with the utmost
+gratitude and submission, at your feet, who have
+the honour to be
+
+_Your royal highness's_
+
+_Most devoted_
+
+DU PLESSIS."
+
+_Padua._
+
+
+Louisa, who was ignorant what her lover had done, and knew no other way,
+than by writing to Melanthe, to extricate herself from this trouble,
+sent a letter to her, the contents whereof were as follows:
+
+
+MADAM,
+
+"On what imagined cause whatever you were
+pleased to banish me, I am certain you
+have too much goodness to suffer any one,
+much less a person you have once honoured
+with your friendship, to remain in prison for a
+crime it is impossible for me to be guilty of:--I
+am sorry I must accuse a person so dear to
+you;--but it is, madam, no other than the
+unworthy count de Bellfleur, who followed me
+hither, came into the inn where I was lodged,
+into the very chamber, and oh! I tremble
+while I relate it, had proceeded yet farther; and
+I had been inevitably lost, had not heaven sent
+me a deliverer in the unexpected arrival of monsieur
+du Plessis, who is also a prisoner as well
+as myself, for the timely rescue he gave me.
+You will wonder, doubtless, by what law either
+I should be confined for endeavouring to defend
+my chastity, or he, for generously assisting me;
+but the detested artful count had pretended himself
+my husband; and under the sanction of
+that name it was, that he met no opposition to
+his wicked will from the people of the house,
+and rendered them regardless of my shrieks and
+cries.--The magistrates are yet dubious of the
+truth; and till it can be proved what I really am,
+both myself and monsieur du Plessis must continue
+where we are:--have pity on me, therefore,
+I conjure you, madam, and write to the podestat:
+I have already told him I had the honour to
+belong to you;--a line from you will confirm
+it, and once more set at liberty a maid, who
+will ever remember all your favours with the
+greatest gratitude, and your withdrawing them
+as the worst misfortune could have befallen.
+
+MADAM,
+
+_From the prison
+at Padua.
+
+Your most faithful, and
+Most humble servant_,
+
+LOUISA."
+
+
+These letters were sent away by special messengers, who had orders to be
+as expeditious as possible in the delivery of them.
+
+But while these accidents happened at Padua, Melanthe was not without
+her share of inquietudes at Venice: she had not seen her beloved count
+in two whole days, and, tho' she sent several times to his lodgings,
+could hear nothing but that he was not yet come home. As her vanity
+would not suffer her to think herself neglected, without having received
+some glaring proofs of it, she feared some misfortune had befallen him,
+and exposed herself not a little in the enquiries she made after him,
+among all those who she could imagine were able to inform her any thing
+concerning him.
+
+At length some person, who happened to see him take boat, told her he
+was gone to Padua, which being the rout she knew Louisa had taken, and
+she had also informed him, a sudden thought darted into her head that he
+was gone in pursuit of her.--It now seemed not impossible, but that all
+he had said concerning his dislike of her might be artifice; and that
+the love of variety might prevail on him at last to comply with the
+advances he pretended she had made him.--The privacy with which he went,
+none of his acquaintance knowing any thing of his journey, seemed to
+favour this opinion; and never was a heart more racked with jealousy and
+suspence, than that of this unhappy, and too easily deceived lady.
+
+She had sometimes an inclination to go to Padua in person, and endeavour
+to find out what business had carried him thither; and her impatience
+had doubtless got the better of her prudence in this particular, if,
+sending once more to his lodgings, she had not heard he was
+returned.--On this she expected to see him in the evening, and flattered
+herself with his being able to make some reasonable excuse for his
+absence; but finding he came not, she was all distraction, and sent a
+billet to him next morning, requiring him to come to her immediately on
+the receipt of it; but as he was at that time in too ill a humour to
+think of entertaining her, sent her an answer by word of mouth, that he
+was indisposed, and would wait on her on his recovery.--This message
+seemed so cold, and so unlike the passion he had hitherto professed for
+her, that it threw her into almost convulsive agonies.--A masquerade
+was to be that night at the house of a person of quality: she sent again
+to know if he intended to be there, and, if he did, what habit he would
+wear, it being customary with them, ever since their amour, to acquaint
+each other with their dresses, that they might not mistake, by
+addressing to wrong persons. His reply was, that he would go if health
+permitted, but as to what he should wear he had not as yet thought
+of it.
+
+What, if he hat not thought of it! cried she haughtily, when she heard
+these words;--the knowledge that I shall be there, ought now to make him
+think of it.--Pride, love, and the astonishment at this sudden change in
+his behaviour, rendered her wholly forgetful of what she owed her sex
+and rank; and she was just going to his lodgings, in order to upbraid
+him with his indifference, and prove what it was she now had to depend
+on from him, when the messenger from Louisa arrived and delivered her
+the letter, which contained a sad eclaircisement of all she wanted to be
+informed of.
+
+At first reading it, she seemed like one transfixed with a sudden clap
+of thunder:--she had indeed been jealous, suspicious, fearful of her
+fate; but so glaring, so impudent a treachery had never entered her
+head, that any man could be guilty of, much less one whom her too fond
+passion had figured to her imagination, as possessed of all the virtues
+of his sex. It seemed too monstrous to be true; and she had accused the
+innocent Louisa as the inventor of this falshood, merely in revenge for
+her late treatment, had there been the least shadow of a pretence for
+doing so:--gladly would she have encouraged such a hope, but common
+sense forbid it;--all circumstances seemed to concur, in proving that he
+was indeed that villain which the letter represented him; and that
+surprize, which had in a manner stupified her on the discovery, was
+succeeded by a storm of mingled grief and rage, which no words can
+sufficiently describe:--she exclaimed against fate, cursed all mankind,
+and accused every thing as accessory to her misfortune, but that to
+which alone she owed it, her own imprudence.
+
+The disorders of her mind had such an effect on her body, that she fell
+into fits, and a physician was sent for, who, tho' esteemed the most
+skilful in that country, found it required all his art to prevent a
+fever: she continued, however, for five days in a condition, such as
+permitted her not to do any thing either for the satisfaction of her own
+impatient curiosity, or to comply with the just request Louisa had made;
+and had not monsieur du Plessis's letter to the prince been mere
+successful, they must both have continued where they were, perhaps for a
+considerable time.
+
+That, however, had all the effect could be expected from a prince of so
+much honour: he immediately sent for the count de Bellfleur; and easily
+finding, by the confusion with which he replied to his examination, and
+the little low evasions he was obliged to have recourse to, that the
+affair was as monsieur du Plessis had represented, gave him a severe
+check, and ordered him to depart immediately from Venice, where he told
+him, he had given such occasion to call the honour of the French nation
+in general in question; and to repair with all expedition to his winter
+quarters. Which command he instantly obeyed, without taking any leave of
+Melanthe, or perhaps even thinking on her.
+
+At the same time the prince dispatched his gentleman of horse to Padua,
+with necessary instructions for clearing up the affair; on which the
+prisoners were discharged, and their pardon asked by the podestat for
+doing what, he said, the duties of his post had alone obliged him to;
+tho' it is certain he had exercised his authority with greater
+strictness than the necessity of the thing required; since, if the count
+had been in reality the husband of Louisa, it would have been more easy
+for him to bring proofs of it, than for those under confinement to
+invalidate his claim.
+
+After the proper compliments to the gentleman who had taken this
+trouble, monsieur du Plessis entreated he would excuse him to the
+prince, that he retarded the thanks he had to pay his royal highness,
+till his return from conducting Louisa some part of her journey, which
+being a piece of gallantry the lady herself seemed well pleased with,
+was easily complied with by the other.
+
+This faithful lover had now a full opportunity to entertain his mistress
+with his passion, and represented it to her with so much force and
+eloquence, together with the dangers she would continually be exposed
+to, that she had at length no words to form denials, and gave him leave
+to conduct her to some monastry in Italy, the choice of which she left
+to him, till the campaign was over. This was indeed all he presumed to
+request of her at present. It may happen, said he, that your lover may
+fall a victim to the fate of war, among many other more brave and worthy
+men, who doubtless will not survive the next battle, and you will then
+be at liberty to pursue your inclinations either to England or
+elsewhere; and be assured of this, that I shall take care, before the
+hour of danger, to leave you mistress of a fortune, sufficient to protect
+you from any future insults of the nature you received from Melanthe.
+
+The tender soul of Louisa was so much dissolved at these words, that she
+burst into a flood of tears, and cried out, Oh! too generous du Plessis,
+think not I will survive the cruel hour which informs me all that is
+valuable in man has ceased to be!--Take,--oh! take no care for me; when
+you are no more, nothing this world affords can enable me to drag on a
+wretched life!
+
+What must be the transport of a man, who loved like him, to hear a mouth
+accustomed to the greatest reserve, utter exclamations so soft, so
+engaging, so convincing to him that he was no less dear to her than he
+could even wish to be!--He threw himself at her feet, and even thought
+that posture not humble enough to testify, as it deserved, his gratitude
+and joy. But she not suffering him to continue in it, he took the hand
+that raised him, kissed off the tears which had fallen from her eyes
+upon it, with speechless extacies, and seemed almost beside himself at
+the concern she could not yet overcome, on the bare imagination of
+losing him in the way he mentioned. If you love me, said she tenderly,
+you will endeavour to preserve yourself:--I have now put myself under
+your protection, by consenting to do as you would have me, and have no
+other from whom I would receive those favours I expect from you:--think
+not, therefore, that I will perform my promise, unless you give me
+yours, not to be so covetous of fame as to court dangers, nor, in too
+eager a pursuit of glory, to lose the remembrance of what you owe
+to love.
+
+Oh thou divinest softness! cried he, be assured I will put nothing to
+the venture that might take me from Louisa!--Your kindness, my angel,
+has shewed me the value of life, and almost made a coward of your
+lover:--no farther will I go than the duties of my post oblige me, and
+that honour, which to forfeit, would render me unworthy of your care.
+
+Louisa now found herself so much at ease, in having discovered a secret
+she had so long laboured with, and suffered an infinity of pain in the
+concealing of, that nothing could be more chearful than her looks and
+behaviour. He, on the other hand, was all rapture, yet did it not make
+him in the least forgetful of the rules he had prescribed himself, or
+give her modesty any room to repent the confession she had made in
+favour of his passion:--the conversation between them was all made up of
+innocence and love; and every hour they passed together, rendered them
+still dearer to each other.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis having thus gained the point his soul was let on,
+began to consider in what part of Italy it would be best to place his
+dear Louisa: as Bolognia was a free country, under the jurisdiction of
+the Pope, he thought she would there be the least subject to alarms, on
+account of the army's continual marches and countermarches thro' most
+other parts of Italy. He therefore got a post-chaise, and by easy
+journeys conducted her thither; and having made an agreement with the
+lady abbess of the Augustines, she was welcomed into the convent by the
+holy sisterhood with all imaginable good-nature and politeness.
+
+It would be endless to recite the farewels of these equally sincere, and
+passionate lovers; so I shall only say that never any parting was more
+truly touching; and the grief, which both of them endured, was only
+alleviated by the confidence they had in each other's affection, and the
+mutual promises of communicating the assurances of persevering in it, by
+letters as often as opportunity would permit.
+
+Melanthe being recovered of the indisposition of her body, tho' not of
+her mind, was informed of every particular of her perfidious lover's
+conduct as he had quitted Venice before she did her chamber, was obliged
+to bear the load of discontent her too easy belief had brought upon her,
+without even the poor ease of venting it in reproaches on him. The
+carnival soon after ending, and finding that change of place was no
+defence from misfortunes of the kind she had sustained, without she
+could also change her way of thinking, took the first convenience that
+offered, and returned to England, rather in worse humour than she
+had left it.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVII.
+
+_Horatio arrives at Warsaw, sees the coronation of Stanislaus and his
+queen: his reception from the king of Sweden: his promotion: follows
+that prince in all his conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The
+story of count Patkul and madame de Eusilden._
+
+While these things were transacting in Italy, Horatio, animated by love
+and glory, was pursuing his journey to Poland. His impatience was so
+great, that he travelled almost night and day, already imitating the
+example of the master he was going to serve; no wood, no river was
+impassable to him that shortened the distance to the place he so much
+longed to approach: and thus by inuring himself to hardship, became
+fitly qualified to bear his part in all the vast fatigues to which that
+prince incessantly exposed his royal person.
+
+Not a city, town, or even village he puffed thro', but echoed with the
+wonders performed by the young king of Sweden:--new victories, new
+acquisitions met him wherever he came:--all tongues were full of his
+praises; and even those who had been ruined by his conquests, could not
+help speaking of him with admiration.--Horatio heard all this with
+pleasure, but mixed with a kind of pain that he was not present at these
+great actions.--How glorious is it, cried he to himself, to fight under
+the banners of this invincible monarch!--What immortal honour has not
+every private man acquired, who contributed the least part to successes
+that astonish the whole world!
+
+But notwithstanding his eagerness which carried him thro' marshes, over
+mountains, and ways, which to an ordinary traveller would have seemed
+impassable, he met with several delays in his journey, especially when
+he got into Germany, where they were extremely scrupulous; and he was
+obliged to wait at some towns two or three days before he could obtain
+passports: he also met several parties of flying horse and dragoons, who
+were scouting about the country, as he drew nearer Saxony; but his
+policy furnished him with stratagems to get over these difficulties, and
+he got safe to Punitz, in the Palatinate of Posnania, where a great part
+of the king of Sweden's army was encamped.--He immediately demanded to
+be brought to the presence of the grand marshal Renchild, to whom he
+delivered the letter of the baron de la Valiere, and found the good
+effects of it by the civilities with which that great general vouchsafed
+to treat him. He would have had him stay with him; but Horatio, knowing
+the king was at Warsaw, was too impatient of seeing that monarch to be
+prevailed upon, on which he sent a party of horse to escort him to
+that city.
+
+He had the good fortune to arrive on the very day that Stanislaus and
+his queen were crowned, and was witness of part of the ceremony. The
+king of Sweden was there incognito, and being shewn to Horatio, he could
+not forbear testifying his surprize to see so great a prince, and one
+who, in every action of his life, discovered a magnamity even above his
+rank, habited in a manner not to be distinguished from a private man;
+but it was not in the power of any garb to take from him a look of
+majesty, which shewed him born to command not only his own subjects, but
+kings themselves, when they presumed to become his enemies. There was a
+fierceness in his eyes, but tempered with so much sweetness, that it was
+impossible for those who most trembled at his frowns to avoid loving him
+at the same time.
+
+Stanislaus had in him all that could attract respect and good wishes;
+beside the most graceful person that can be imagined, he had a certain
+air of grandeur, joined with an openness of behaviour, that shewed him
+equally incapable of doing a mean or dishonourable action: his queen was
+one of the greatest beauties of her time; and every one present at their
+coronation, confessed, that never any two persons more became a throne,
+or were more worthy of the dignity conferred upon them.
+
+The whole court was too much taken up that day, for Horatio to think of
+presenting himself before the king of Sweden; but the officer, who
+commanded the party that general Renchild had sent with him, introduced
+him in the evening to count Hoorn, governor of Warsaw, who provided him
+an appartment, and the next morning introduced him to count Piper. That
+minister no sooner read the baron de Palfoy's letter, and heard he had
+others to deliver to the king from the chevalier St. George, and the
+queen dowager of England, than he treated him with the utmost marks of
+esteem; and assured him that, since he had an inclination to serve his
+majesty, he would contribute every thing in his power to make him not
+repent the long fatigues he had undergone for that purpose; but, said he
+with a smile, you will have no need of me; you bring, I perceive,
+recommendations more effectual, and have besides, in yourself,
+sufficient to engage all you have to wish from a monarch so just and
+generous as ours.
+
+Horatio replied to this compliment with all humility; and as the count
+perceived by his accents that he was not a Frenchman, tho' he spoke the
+language perfectly well, he asked him of what country he was; to which
+Horatio replied, that he was of England, but made him no farther
+acquainted with his affairs, nor that the motive of his having remained
+so long in France, was because he was not ransomed by his friends: not
+that he concealed this out of pride, but he knew the character of most
+first ministers, and thought it not prudence to unbosom himself to one
+of those, whose first study, when they come into that employment, is to
+discover as much as they can of others, without revealing any thing of
+themselves. For this reason he was also very sparing of entering into
+any discourse of the chevalier's court, or of that of the king of
+France, and answered all the questions put to him by the count, that his
+youth, and being of foreign extraction, hindered him from being let into
+any secrets of state.
+
+After a pretty long conversation, the count led him to the king of
+Sweden's apartment, where, just as they were about to enter, he asked
+him if he could speak Latin; for, said he, tho' his majesty understands
+French, he never could be brought to speak it, nor is pleased to be
+addressed in that language. Horatio thanked him for this information,
+and told him, that tho' he could not boast of being able to deliver
+himself with an affluence becoming the presence of so great a prince,
+yet he would chuse rather to shew his bad learning, than his want of
+ambition to do every thing that might render himself acceptable.
+
+As he spoke these words, he found himself in his presence.--The king was
+encompassed by the officers of the army, to whom he was giving some
+directions; but seeing count Piper, and a stranger with him, he left off
+what he was saying, and, without giving him time to speak, cried, Count,
+who have you brought me here? One, may it please your majesty, replied
+he, who brings his credentials with him, and has no need of my
+intercession to engage his welcome. While the count Was making this
+reply, the king, who had an uncommon quickness in his eyes, measured
+Horatio from head to foot; and our young soldier of fortune, without
+being daunted, put one knee to the ground, and delivered his packet with
+these words:--The princes, by whom I have the honour to be sent,
+commanded me to assure your majesty, that they participate in all your
+dangers, rejoice in all your glories, and pray, that as you only conquer
+for the good of others, the sword you draw, in the cause of justice, may
+at last be sheathed in a lasting and universal peace.
+
+I am afraid it will be long before all that is necessary for that
+purpose is accomplished, said the king; wrong, when established, not
+easily gives place to right;--but we are yet young enough to hope it.
+
+He broke open his letters as he spoke this; and while he was examining
+them, took his eye off the paper several times to look on Horatio, and
+then read again.
+
+When he had done, I am much obliged, said he, to the zeal these letters
+tell me you have expressed for my service, and shall not be
+ungrateful:--we are here idle at present but shall not long be so; and
+you will have occasions enough to prove your courage, and gratify that
+love of arms which, my brother informs me, is the predominant passion of
+your soul.
+
+After this he asked him several questions concerning the chevalier St.
+George, the queen, and princess Louisa; to which Horatio answered with
+great propriety, but mingled with such encomiums of the royal persons,
+as testified his gratitude for the favours he received from them. But
+when he mentioned the princess, and delivered the message she sent by
+him, a more lively colour flushed into the king's cheeks, and he
+replied, well, we shall do all we can to comply with her commands; then
+turned quick about, and resumed the discourse he was in, before
+Horatio's entrance, with his officers, as much as to say, the business
+of his love must not interrupt that of the war; and Horatio had
+afterwards the opportunity of observing, that tho' he often looked upon
+the picture of that amiable princess, which he always wore in his bosom,
+yet he would on a sudden snatch his eyes away, as fearing to be too
+much softened.
+
+Horatio was ordered to be lodged in the castle where the garrison was
+kept; but he was every day at the king's levee, and received the most
+extraordinary marks of his favour and affection; for which, as he looked
+upon himself entirely indebted to the recommendations of his friends in
+France, he wrote letters of thanks, and an account of all that
+happened to him.
+
+Poland being now entirely subdued by the valour and fortune of Charles
+XII. and having received a king of his nomination, submitted cheerfully,
+glad to see an end of devastation, as they then flattered themselves;
+but the troubles of that unfortunate kingdom were yet to endure much
+longer.--Augustus, impatient of recovering what he had lost, and the
+czar of Muscovy jealous and envious of the king of Sweden's glory, came
+pouring with mighty armies from Saxony and Russia. Shullenburgh, the
+general of the former, had passed the Oder; and the other, at the head
+of a numerous body, was plundering all that came in his way, and putting
+to the sword every one whom he even suspected of adhering to king
+Stanislaus: so that nothing now was talked of but war, and the means
+concerted how to put a stop to the miseries these two ambitious princes
+made, not only in that country, but all the adjacent parts.
+
+It was agreed that general Renchild should go to meet Shullenburgh, and
+the two kings drive out the Muscovites; who being divided into several
+parties, Stanislaus went at the head of one army, and the king of Sweden
+led another; and taking different routs, had every day what he called
+skirmishes, but what the vanquished looked upon as terrible battles.
+
+The king of Sweden, before their departure from Warsaw, told Horatio
+that all his officers were gallant men, and it was not his custom to
+displace any one for meer favour to another; he must therefore wait till
+the fate of war, or some other accident, made a vacancy, before he could
+give him a commission, in the mean time, said he, with a great deal of
+sweetness, you must be content to be only my aid-de-camp. On this
+Horatio replied to his majesty, with as much politeness as sincerity,
+that it was the post he wished, tho' dare not presume to ask; for he
+looked upon the honour of being near, and receiving the commands of so
+excellent a monarch, preferable to the highest commission in the army.
+
+Thus, highly contented with his lot, did he attend the king, thro'
+rivers, lakes, marines, and all the obstacles nature had thrown in the
+way of this conqueror; and whenever they came to any battle, was so
+swift in bearing his commands to the general, and in returning to him in
+which line soever he was, that Poniatosky gave him the name of the
+Mercury to their Jove; nor did he less signalize his valour; he fought
+by the side of the king like one who valued not life, in competition
+with the praises of his master. In an engagement where they took the
+baggage of Augustus, he did extraordinary service; and a colonel then
+being killed on the spot, the king presently cried out, Now here is a
+regiment for my Horatio. Our young warrior thanked him on his knees, but
+beseeched he might not be removed from him, again protesting that he
+could no were deserve so well, as where he was animated by his royal
+presence. This Charles XII. took very kindly, and told him, he should
+have his desire; but, said he, I must also have mine:--I will continue
+you my aid-de-camp, but you shall accept the commission, and the
+lieutenant colonel shall command the regiment in your absence.
+
+He also allotted him so large a share in the prize taken in this battle,
+that Horatio was already become rich enough to avow his pretensions to
+the daughter of the baron de Palfoy; but, dear as she was to him, his
+love and admiration of the king of Sweden, joined to the ambition of
+desiring still more than he had received, kept him from entertaining the
+least desire of quitting the service he was in.
+
+In eight or nine weeks did the two kings clear the country round, and
+drove their enemies into the heart of Lithuania. As they were about to
+return, they were met by the welcome news that general Renchild had been
+no less successful, and entirely routed the whole army of Shullenburgh,
+and also that the diet of Ratisbon, fearing the king of Sweden would
+enter Germany, had come to a resolution to declare him an enemy to the
+empire, in case he offered to pass the Oder with his army.
+
+They could not have taken a more effectual step to bring on what
+they dreaded, than by daring him to it by this menace. He took but
+little time for consideration, before he determined to carry the war
+into Saxony, and drive Augustus from his electorate, as he had done from
+his kingdom.
+
+He had no sooner made known his resolution, than the troops began to
+march, and with a chearfulness and alacrity, which shewed they had no
+will but that of their king:--indeed he seemed the soul of this mighty
+body, of which every single man was a member, and actuated only by him.
+
+It is certain his heart was set on establishing Stanislaus on the
+throne, and he knew no better way of preventing Augustus from molesting
+him, than by calling off all communication between his electorate and
+Poland:--accordingly he bent his course to Saxony, marched thro' Silesia
+and Lusatia, plundered the open country, laid the rich city of Leipsic,
+and other towns, under contribution, and at length encamped at
+Alranstadt, near the plains of Lutsen, whence he sent to the estates of
+Saxony, to give him an estimate of what they could supply, and obliged
+them to levy whatever sums he had occasion for: not that he had the
+least spark of avarice in his nature, but his hatred to Augustus, who
+had by his injustice made him become his enemy, was so great, that it
+extended to all those of his country, so far, as to humble and
+impoverish the once opulent inhabitants, making them not only support
+his numerous army, but laid on them besides many unnecessary imposts,
+which he divided among his soldiers, so that they were all cloathed in
+gold and silver, and every private man had the appearance of a general,
+the king himself still preferring his usual plainness; but he loved, he
+said, to see the Saxon riches upon Swedish backs.
+
+Horatio had now a second opportunity of writing to France, which he did
+not fail to do, and, as there was no talk of the army decamping for some
+time, let his friends know he hoped to hear from them at Alranstadt.
+
+Augustus, in the mean time deprived of every thing, and a wanderer in
+that kingdom where he had lately reigned, sent a mean submission to him,
+entreating peace, and that he might have leave to return to his
+electorate. This was granted by the conqueror, on condition he would
+renounce, for ever, all thoughts of re-entering Poland, or giving any
+disturbance to Stanislaus. But as the treaty was going to be signed, the
+czar sent an army of 20,000 men to his relief, who defeated general
+Mayerfield, whom the king had left to guard that kingdom; and the
+dethroned monarch once more entered Warsaw, the capital of Poland,
+in triumph.
+
+Charles XII. was so exasperated when he received this intelligence, that
+he gave immediate orders to decamp, resolving he should not long enjoy
+the benefit of his breach of faith; but the pusillanimity of Augustus
+prevented him: that prince was afraid the czar should discover the peace
+he had been secretly negotiating, and withdraw his troups; and as he had
+neither any of his own, nor money to assist him, he sent the articles
+demanded of him by the king of Sweden, signed with his own hand, and set
+out to Alranstadt, hoping, by his presence and persuasions, to mollify
+his indignation, and be permitted to enjoy his own Saxony in peace.
+
+What more could the utmost ambition of man require than the king of
+Sweden now received, to see a prince, so lately his equal and inveterate
+enemy, come to solicite favour of him in his camp, almost at his feet;
+but whatever were his sentiments on this occasion he concealed them, and
+tho' he could not but despise such an act of meanness, he treated him
+with the utmost politeness, tho' without making any abatement of the
+demands he had exacted from him. On the contrary, he insisted on his
+delivering up to him general Patkul, ambassador from the czar, who at
+that time was a prisoner in Saxony, being determined to put him to death
+as a traitor, having been born his subject, and now entered into the
+service of his sworn enemy.
+
+Augustus beseeched him in the most abject manner to relinquish this one
+point, and remonstrated to him that the czar, his present master, would
+look on it as the utmost indignity offered to himself in the person of
+his ambassador: he assured him he hated Patkul, but feared the giving
+him up would be resented by all the princes of Europe. All he could urge
+on this head was to no effect; the king of Sweden was not to be moved
+from any resolution he had once made; and the unfortunate Patkul was
+sent to Alranstadt and chained to a stake for three whole months, and
+afterwards conducted to Casimir, where he was to receive his sentence.
+
+Horatio, who was an entire stranger to the motive of this behaviour in
+the king, and had never seen any thing before in him that looked like a
+cruel disposition, was one day mentioning his surprize at it to a young
+officer with whom he had contracted a great intimacy, on which he gave
+him the following account:
+
+This Patkul, said he, is a Livonian born, which, tho' a free country, is
+part of the dominions annexed to the crown of Sweden: Charles XI. began
+to introduce a more absolute form of government than was consistent with
+the humour of that people; his son has been far from receding in that
+point, and Patkul being a person of great consideration among them,
+stood up for their liberties in a manner which our king could not
+forgive:--he ordered him to be seized, but he made his escape, and was
+proscribed in Sweden; on which he entered into the service of king
+Augustus, and was made his general; but on some misunderstanding;
+between him and the chancellor, he quitted Poland and went to Russia,
+where he got into great favour with the czar, was highly promoted, and
+sent his residentiary ambassador in Saxony. Augustus, whose fate it has
+been to disoblige every body, on some pretence clapp'd into prison the
+representative of his only friend, and now, we see, has given him up to
+death, to satiate the demands of his greatest enemy.
+
+Horatio could not keep himself from falling into a deep musing at the
+recital of this adventure: he thought Patkul worthy of compassion, yet
+found reasons to justify the king's resentment; and as this officer had
+often disburthened himself to him with the greatest freedom, he had no
+reserve toward him, and this led them into a discourse on arbitrary
+power.--Horatio said, that he could not help believing that nature never
+intended millions to be subjected to the despotic will of one person,
+and that a limited government was the most conformable to reason. The
+officer agreed with him in that; except the person who ruled had really
+more perfections than all those he ruled over and if so, said he, and
+his commands are always calculated for the happiness of the subject,
+they cannot be more happy than in an implicite obedience. True, replied
+Horatio, I am confident that such a prince as ours knows how to chuse
+for his people much better than they do for themselves; but how can they
+be certain that his descendants will have the same virtues; and when
+once an absolute power is granted to a good prince, it will be in vain
+that the people will endeavour to wrest it from the hands of a bad
+one.--Never can any point be redeemed from the crown without a vast
+effusion of blood, and the endangering such calamities on the country,
+that the relief would be as bad as the disease. Upon the whole,
+therefore, I cannot think Patkul in the wrong for attempting to maintain
+the liberty of his country, tho' I do for entering into the service of
+the avowed enemy of his master.
+
+It is that, I believe, resumed the other, that the king chiefly resents:
+his majesty is too just to condemn a man for maintaining the principles
+he was bred in, however they may disagree with his own; but to become
+his enemy, to enlist himself in the service of those who aim at the
+destruction of his lawful prince, is certainly a treason of the
+blackest dye.
+
+As they were in this discourse, colonel Poniatosky came in, and hearing
+they were speaking of Patkul,--I have just now, said he, received a
+letter from one of my friends in Saxony concerning that general, which
+deeply affects me, not for his own, but for the sake of a lady, to whom,
+after a long series of disappointments, he was just going to be married,
+when Augustus, against the law of nations, made him a prisoner. I will
+relate the whole adventure to you, continued he; on which the others
+assuring him they should think themselves obliged to him, he went on.
+
+When he first entered into the service of Augustus, he became
+passionately in love with madam d' Ensilden, a young lady, whose beauty,
+birth, and fortune rendered her worthy the affections of a man of more
+honour than he had testified in his public capacity: her friends at
+least thought so; and chancellor Flemming making his addresses to her at
+the same time, had the advantage in every thing but in her heart: there
+Patkul triumphed in spight of all objections: and tho' king Augustus
+vouchsafed himself to sollicite in behalf of his favourite, her
+constancy remained unshaken as a rock; which so incensed a monarch
+haughty and imperious in his nature, before humbled by our glorious
+Charles, that he made use of his authority, and forbid her to think of
+marrying any other: to which she resolutely answered, that she knew no
+right princes had to interfere with the marriages of private persons;
+but since his majesty commanded it, she would endeavour to obey and live
+single. This not satisfying the king, he hated Patkul from that moment;
+and the rivals soon after meeting in madam d' Ensilden's apartment, some
+hot words arose between them, which being by Flemming reported to his
+master, he sent, in the moment of his passion, to require Patkul to
+resign his office of general: he did so, but with a murmur that was far
+from abating the royal resentments; and he had then ordered him into
+confinement, but that private intelligence being given him, he made his
+escape before the officers, commissioned for that purpose, reached his
+house. He then went to the czar, who knowing him an experienced general,
+of which at that time he stood greatly in need, gladly received him; and
+it was there he first merited the hate of all good men, by countenancing
+and abetting those ambitious projects his new master was then forming
+against the king of Sweden: but see the fate of treason, he persuaded
+him to enter into an alliance with, Poland and Saxony against Sweden,
+which laid the foundation of this unjust war, and for which Augustus has
+so dearly paid; and being sent Ambassador, in order to negotiate these
+affairs, again renewed those of his love. Augustus, now obliged to the
+czar for the preservation of his dominions, durst not openly espouse
+chancellor Flemming, but no sooner heard that the marriage was near
+being compleated, than he ventured every thing to prevent it; and, under
+a pretence of his own forging, confined Patkul in the castle of
+Konisting, where he lay a considerable time; the czar being too much
+taken up with combating the fortune of our victorious king, to examine
+into this affair, and besides, unwilling to break with Augustus, as
+things then stood. Madam d' Ensilden did all this time whatever could be
+expected from a sincere affection, in order to procure his enlargement;
+but the interest of her friends, at least of those who would be employed
+in this intercession, were infinitely too weak to oppose that of
+Flemming and the king's own inclination, so that he remained a prisoner,
+without being permitted either to write to madam d' Ensilden or see her,
+till the time of his being delivered into our hands. But on hearing he
+was so, my friend informs me her great spirit, which till now had made
+her support her misfortune without discovering to the world any part of
+the agonies she sustained, in an instant quite forsook her: she
+abandoned herself to despair and grief, equally exclaiming against the
+Czar, Augustus, and Charles XII; has ever since shut herself up in her
+apartment, which she has caused to be hung with black, the windows
+closed, and no light but what a small lamp affords, and only adds more
+horror to the melancholy scene: she weeps incessantly, and, as she
+expects her lover will obtain no mercy, declares, she only waits till
+she hears the sentence of his fate is given, to dye, if possible, at the
+same moment of his execution.
+
+I must confess, continued Poniatosky, the history of this lady's
+sufferings touch me very much; and tho' I think her lover well worthy of
+the death he will undoubtedly receive, could wish some unexpected chance
+might once more set him free, and in a condition to recompence so tender
+a passion, which Augustus has now no longer any power to oppose.
+
+Horatio had a heart too tender, and too sensible of the woes of love,
+not to be greatly affected with this passage; and as they all were
+young, and probably had each of them a lady to whom their affections
+were given, could not help sympathizing in the misfortunes of two
+persons who seemed to have fallen into them merely by the sincere
+attachment they had for each other.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XVIII.
+
+_King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the troubles in Poland:
+Charles XII. gives laws to the empire: a courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives letters which give him great surprize_.
+
+Augustus being able to obtain no better conditions from the king of
+Sweden, than leave to return to his almost ruined electorate, took leave
+of his conqueror with an almost broken heart.--Intelligence soon after
+arriving that Poland was half demolished by the violence of different
+factions, who, in the absence of both their kings, contended with equal
+fury for the sovereign power, Stanislaus took an affectionate farewell
+of his dear friend and patron, and went to appease the troubles of that
+kingdom, and make himself peaceably acknowledged for what he was, their
+lawful king, not only by election, but by the gift of the conqueror,
+Charles XII. of Sweden. He was attended by 10,000 Swedish horse, and
+twice the number of foot, in order to make good his claim against any of
+his rebellious subjects.
+
+Charles having now accomplished all he could desire in relation to the
+Polish affairs, began to grow weary of the idle life he led at
+Alranstadt, and was thinking which way he should turn his arms; he had
+been used ill by the czar, who, as has been before observed, plotted his
+destruction while a minor, and began hostilities when he thought him not
+in a condition to defend himself, much less to make any reprisals: his
+resentment therefore against him was no less implacable than it had been
+against Augustus,--But the emperor had also disobliged him. Count Zobor,
+the chamberlain, had taken very indecent and unbecoming liberties with
+his character, in the presence of his own Ambassador at Vienna; and that
+court had given shelter to 1500 Muscovites, who having escaped his arms,
+fled thither for protection. As he was now so near, he therefore thought
+best to call the emperor first to account, and then proceed to
+attack the czar.
+
+To this end he sent to demand count Zobor, and the 1500 Muscovites
+should be given into his hands: the timid emperor complied with the
+first and sent his chamberlain to be punished as the king thought fit;
+but it was not in his power to acquiesce with the other; the Roman envoy,
+then at Vienna, having intelligence of it, provided for their escape by
+different routs. The king of Sweden then sent a second mandate,
+requiring protection for all the Lutherans throughout Germany,
+particularly in Silesia, and that they should be restored to all the
+liberties and privileges established by the treaty of Westphalia. The
+emperor, who would have yielded any thing to get the king of Sweden out
+of his neighbourhood, granted even this, disobliging as it was to the
+pope and his own catholic subjects: and having ratified these
+concessions, the king vouchsafed to let his chamberlain return, without
+any other punishment than imprisonment, so long as these affairs
+remained in agitation.
+
+Having thus given laws to Germany and terror to the emperor, he resolved
+to turn where he might expect more opposition; and accordingly he
+ordered count Piper to acquaint the officers, that they must now begin
+to think of preparing for a march.
+
+In the mean time ambassadors from all the courts of Europe were sent to
+his camp, most of them being apprehensive that they should be the next
+who felt the terror of his arms: but those who had nothing of this kind
+to dread, and more really his friends, made use of all the arguments in
+their power to prevail on him to return to Stockholm. France in
+particular sent courier after courier, remonstrating to him that his
+glory was complete; that he had already exceeded Alexander, and should
+now return covered, as he was, with lawrels, and let his subjects enjoy
+the blessing of his presence. The court of St. Germains added their
+entreaties to that of Versailles, but each were equally ineffectual; nor
+could even the thoughts of the beautiful princess Louisa, his betrothed
+spouse, and whom he was to marry at the end of this war, put a stop to
+the vehemence of his impatience to revenge the many injuries he had
+received from the czar of Muscovy.
+
+These were the sentiments by which this conquering monarch were
+agitated; but Horatio, tho' no less fond of glory, had a softness in his
+nature, which made him languish for the sight of his dear Charlotta,
+whom he had been absent from near two years; and being now blessed with
+a fortune from the plunder of Saxony, which might countenance his
+pretensions to her, passionately longed for an opportunity of returning
+without incurring the censure of cowardice or ingratitude. By these
+couriers he received letters from the baron de la Valiere, and several
+others of his friends, but none from the father of Charlotta; nor did
+any of them make any mention of that lady, tho' he knew the passion he
+had for her was now no secret to any of them.
+
+He was very much surprized that the baron de Palfoy had not wrote,
+because as he had in a manner promised to correspond with him by
+desiring him to write, he had a right to expect that favour when they
+came to Alranstadt; for till then it was scarce possible, by reason of
+the army's continual and uncertain motions; but he was much more so,
+that the baron de la Valiere had not been so good as to give him some
+information of an affair, of which he could not be insensible his peace
+so much depended: that he did not do it, he therefore presently
+concluded, was owing to the having nothing pleasing to acquaint
+him with.
+
+As love is always apprehensive of the worst that can possibly befal, he
+thought now of nothing but her being obliged to give her hand to some
+rival approved by her father:--what avails it, cried he, that fortune
+has raised me to an equality with her, if, by other means, I am
+deprived of her!
+
+He was beginning to give way to a despair little befitting a soldier,
+when another courier arriving from Versailles with dispatches to the
+king, he also received a packet, in which were three letters. The first
+he cast his eye upon had on it the characters of Charlotta: amazed and
+transported he hastily broke the seal, and found it contained
+these lines:
+
+_To Colonel_ HORATIO.
+
+
+SIR,
+
+"I have the permission of my father to pursue
+my inclinations, in giving you this testimony
+how sincerely I congratulate your good fortune;
+tho' I ought not to call it by that name, since I
+find every-body allows your rewards have not
+exceeded your merits; but as neither has been
+found deficient either for your ambition or the
+satisfaction of your friends, all who are truly such
+think you ought to be content, and run no future
+hazards.--Be assured you have many well-wishers
+here, among the number of whom you
+will be guilty of great injustice not to place
+
+CHARLOTTA DE PALFOY."
+
+
+How well were all the late anxieties he had endured attoned for by this
+billet; it was short indeed, and wrote with a more distant air than he
+might have expected, had the dear authoress been at liberty to pursue
+the dictates of her heart; but as it informed him it was permitted by
+her father, and was doubtless under his inspection, the knowledge that
+he had authorized her to write at all, was more flattering to his hopes
+of happiness than all she could have said without that Sanction. After
+having indulged the raptures this condescention excited, he proceeded to
+the rest, and found the next he opened was from the baron de Palfoy, who
+expressed himself to him in these terms:
+
+_To Colonel_ HORATIO.
+
+
+"I think myself obliged to you for so much
+exceeding the character I gave you; but I
+value myself on knowing mankind, and am glad
+to find I was not deceived in you, when I expected
+you to do more than I durst venture on
+my own opinion to assure the count. He tells me,
+in a letter I received from him the last courier,
+that the victorious Charles XII. himself cannot
+behave with greater bravery in the time of action,
+nor more moderation after it is over.--This
+is a great praise, indeed, from such a man
+as he; and I acquaint you with it not to make
+you vain, for that would blemish the lustre of
+your other good qualities, but that you may
+know how to make proper acknowledgments to
+that minister."
+
+"Our court, I know, makes pressing influences
+to the king of Sweden not to carry on the way
+any farther: I wish they may succeed, or if they
+should not, that you might be able to find some
+opportunity of quitting the service for reasons
+which you will see in a letter that accompanies
+this, and to which nothing can be added to convince
+you what part you ought to take.--I
+shall therefore say no more than that I am, with
+a very tender regard,
+
+_Yours_,
+
+PALFOY"
+
+
+Rejoiced as he was at receiving a letter from the father of his
+mistress, wrote in a manner which he might look upon as a kind of
+confirmation he no longer would be refractory to his wishes, the latter
+part of it contained an enigma he could by no means comprehend.--It
+seemed impossible to him there could be any reasons prevalent enough to
+make him quit, with honour, a prince who had so liberally rewarded his
+service; but hoping a further explanation, he lost not any time in
+conjectures; and tearing open the other letter without giving himself
+time to examine the hand in which it was directed, found, to his
+inexpressible astonishment, the name of Dorilaus subscribed. It was
+indeed wrote by that gentleman, and contained at follows:
+
+_Dear Horatio_,
+
+
+"Accidents, which at our parting neither of
+us could foresee, have doubtless long since
+made you cease to hope any continuance of that
+kindness my former behaviour seemed to promise;
+but never, perhaps did heaven deal its
+blessings with a more mysterious hand than it
+has done to you.--That seeming neglect in
+me, at a time when you were a prisoner among
+strangers, and had most need of my assistance,
+had the appearance of the greatest misfortune
+could befall you; yet has it been productive of
+the greatest good, and laid the foundation of a
+happiness which cannot be but lasting.--I reserve
+the explanation of this riddle till you arrive
+at Paris, where I now am, and intend to
+continue my whole life.--That I impatiently
+desire to see you, ought to be a sufficient inducement
+for you to return with as much expedition
+as possible:--I will therefore make this
+experiment of that affection, I might add duty,
+you owe me, and only give you leave to guess
+what recompence this proof of your obedience
+will entitle you to.--If therefore the king of
+Sweden is resolute to extend his conquests, entreat
+his permission to resign: I know the obligations
+you have to that excellent prince; but I
+know also you have others to me which cannot
+be dispensed with:--besides, his majesty's affairs
+cannot suffer by the loss of one man: yours
+will be in danger, if not totally ruined, by your
+continuance with him, and myself deprived at
+the same time of the only remaining comfort of
+my days.--Your sister left me soon after you
+did:--she went to Aix la Chapelle, since
+which I have never been able to hear any thing
+of her.--Let me not lose you both; if you
+have any regard for your own interest, or the
+peace of him whom you have ever found a father
+in his care and affection, and whom you will
+now find so more than you can possibly expect.
+
+DORILAUS."
+
+
+Impossible is it to conceive, without being in the very circumstances
+Horatio was, what a strange variety of mingled passions agitated his
+breast on having to read, and considered these letters:--to find such
+unhoped condescension from the baron de Palfoy and that Dorilaus was
+still living, and had the same, if not more tender inclinations for him
+than ever, the latter of which he had long since ceased to hope, was
+sufficient to have overwhelmed even the most phlegmatic person with an
+excess of joy:--but then the dark expressions in both these letters put
+his brain on the rack.--The baron had seemed to refer to an explanation
+of what he darkly hinted at in the letter of Dorilaus, but that he found
+rather more obsolete: he could imagine nothing farther than that
+Dorilaus having resolved to make him his heir, as he remembered some
+people said before he left England, on the knowledge of that
+intelligence the baron de Palfoy had consented to his marriage with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, and this, her being permitted to write to him
+confirmed.--This indeed was the supreme aim of his desires; and this it
+was that made him quit St. Germains, in hope of raising himself to a
+condition which might enable her to own her affection to him without a
+blush: but transporting as this idea was, it was mingled with disquiet,
+to reflect on the terms which both the Baron and Dorilaus seemed to
+insist on for the accomplishment of his wishes, tho' he impatiently
+longed to see Dorilaus after so long an absence.--Tho' in the possession
+of Charlotta all his hopes were centered, yet to leave a prince who had
+so highly favoured him, and under whose banners he had gained so much
+consideration, was a piece of ingratitude, which it was worse than death
+for him to be guilty of.--No! said he, it would be to render me unworthy
+of all the blessings they make me hope, should I purchase them on such
+conditions!--How can they demand them of me!--The Baron, Charlotta, and
+Dorilaus, have all of them the highest notions of honour, generosity and
+gratitude, and can they approve that in me, which I am certain they
+would not be guilty of themselves!--Sure it is but to try me, they seem
+to exact what they are sensible I cannot yield to, without the breach of
+every thing that can entitle me to esteem or love!
+
+Thus did he argue within himself for one moment; the next, other
+reasons, directly opposite to these, presented themselves.--Dorilaus,
+cried he, demands all my obedience;--all my gratitude:--without
+protection I had been an outcast in the world!--Whatever honours,
+whatever happiness I enjoy, is it not to him I owe them! Can I refuse
+then to comply with commands, which, he says, are necessary to his
+peace!--Besides, was it not Charlotta that inspired this ardor in me for
+great actions! Was not the possession of that charming maid, the sole
+end I proposed to myself in all I have undertaken! and shall I, by
+refusing her request, madly run the risque of losing her for ever!--Does
+not she wish, her father persuade, and Dorilaus enjoin me to
+return!--Does not love, friendship, duty call me to partake the joys
+that each affords!--And shall I refuse the tender invitation!--No! the
+world cannot condemn me for following motives such as these; and even
+the royal Charles himself is too generous not to acquit me of
+ingratitude or cowardice.
+
+It must indeed be confessed he had potent inducements for his return to
+Paris, to combat against those of continuing in the king of Sweden's
+service; and both by turns appeared so prevalent, that it is uncertain
+which would have got the better, had not an accident happened, which
+unhappily determined him in favour of the latter.
+
+Colonel Poniatosky, who had attended Stanislaus into Poland, now the
+disturbances of that kingdom were quieted, on hearing the king of Sweden
+was on some new expedition, obtained leave of Stanislaus to return to
+the camp, and implored his majesty's permission to be one of those who
+should partake the glorious toils he was now re-entering into. To which
+he replied, that he should be glad to have him near his person, but
+feared he would be wanted in Poland. No, may it please your majesty,
+resumed Poniatosky, there seems to be no longer any business in that
+kingdom for a soldier:--all seem ready to obey the royal Stanislaus out
+of affection to his person, and admiration of those virtues they are now
+perfectly convinced of; nor is Augustus in a condition to violate the
+treaty of resignation:--refuse me not therefore I beseech your majesty,
+continued he, falling upon both his knees, what I look on as my greatest
+happiness, as it is my greatest glory.
+
+The king seemed very well pleased at the emphasis with which he
+expressed himself; and having raised him from the posture he was in, be
+it so, cried he, henceforward we will be inseparable.
+
+Horatio was charmed with this testimony of love and zeal in a person,
+who had doubtless friends and kindred who would have been glad he had
+less attachment to a service so full of dangers as that of the king of
+Sweden, and somewhat ashamed he had ever entertained a thought of
+quitting it, resolved, as he had been more obliged, not to shew less
+gratitude than Poniatosky. Therefore, without any further deliberation,
+retired to his quarters, and prepared the following answers to the
+letters had been brought him. As all things in a lover's heart yields to
+the darling object, the first he wrote was to his mistress.
+
+_To mademoiseile_ DE PALFOY.
+
+
+"With what transports I received yours,
+adorable Charlotta, I am little able to
+express!--To find I am not forgotten!--That
+what I have done is approved by her for
+whom alone I live, and whose praise alone can
+make me vain, so swallowed up all other considerations,
+that it had almost made me quit
+Alranstadt that moment, and fly to pour beneath
+your feet my gratitude and joy!--But
+glory, tyrannic glory, would not suffer me to
+obey the soft impulse, nor re-enjoy that blessing
+till conscious I deserved it better!--My friends
+over-rate my services; and tho' that partial indulgence
+is the ultimate of my ambition, I would
+dare not abuse what they are so good to offer."
+
+"To feast my long, long famished sight with
+gazing once more on your charms, I would
+forgo every thing but the hope of rendering myself
+one day more worthy of it!--Too dear I
+prize the good wishes you vouchsafe to have for
+me, not to attempt every thing in my power to
+prevent the disappointment of them: the little
+I have yet done, alas! serves but to prove how
+much the man, who has in view rendering himself
+acceptable to the divine Charlotta, dares
+to do, when dangers worthy of his courage
+present themselves.--A small time may, perhaps,
+afford me an opportunity:--yet did you
+know how dear this self-denial costs me, you
+would confess it the greatest proof of affection
+ever man gave:--permit me therefore to gratify
+an ambition which has no other aim than a
+justification of the favours I receive:--continue
+to look with a favourable eye on my endeavours,
+and they cannot then fail of such success,
+as may give me a claim to the glorious.
+title of my most adored and loved Charlotta's.
+
+_Everlasting Slave_,
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+To her father he wrote in the following manner:
+
+_To the baron_ DE PALFOY,
+
+_My Lord_;
+
+
+"The favours your goodness confers upon
+me are such as can be equalled by but one
+thing in the world, and that is my just and
+grateful sense of them.--Charming would be
+the toils of war, did all employed in them meet
+a recompence like mine!--Is there a man, so
+mean, so poor in spirit, that praises such as I receive
+might not animate to actions worthy of
+them!--What acknowledgments can I make
+the count suitable to the immense obligations I
+owe him, for inspiring your lordship with sentiments,
+which, tho' the supreme wish of my
+aspiring soul, I never durst allow myself to
+hope; and which afford a prospect of future
+accumulated blessings, such as I could scarce
+flatter myself with being real, were not the transporting
+idea in some measure confirmed to me,
+by your having given a sanction to a correspondence
+I so lately despaired of ever obtaining!--Blessed
+change!--Extatic condescensions!--Fortune
+has done all she can for me, and anticipated
+all the good that, after a long train of
+services and approved fidelity, I scarce should
+have presumed to hope!--Oh my lord! I have
+no words to thank you as I ought! It is deeds
+alone, and rendering myself worthy of your
+indulgence, that must preserve your good opinion,
+and keep you from repenting having overwhelmed
+me with this profusion of happiness!--Yet
+how joyfully could I now pursue the
+rout to Paris, and content myself with owing
+every thing merely to your goodness, were I
+not with-held by all the considerations that
+ought to have weight with a man of honour!--My
+royal general is inflexible to the persuasions
+of almost all the courts in Christendom,
+and hurried by his thirst of fame, or some other
+more latent motive, has given orders to prepare
+for a march, where, or against whom, is yet a
+secret to the army; but by the preparations for
+it, we believe they are not short journeys we
+are to take.--Should I now quit a service
+where I have been promoted so much beyond
+my merit, what, my lord, but cowardice or ingratitude
+could be imputed to me as the motive!
+--Not all my reasons, powerful as they are,
+would have any weight with a prince, who is
+deaf to every thing but the calls of glory; and
+I must return loaden with his displeasure, and
+the reproaches of all I leave behind!--Now
+to return is certain infamy!--To go, is in pursuit
+of honour!--Your lordship will not therefore
+be surprized I make choice of the latter,
+since no hazard can be equal to that of forfeiting
+the little reputation I have acquired, and
+which alone can render me worthy any part of
+the favours I have received.
+
+_I am_,
+
+_With the extremest respect and submission_,
+
+_Your lordship's
+
+Eternally devoted servant,_
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+The last and most difficult task he had to go thro', was the refusal he
+must give to Dorilaus, who had laid his commands on him in such express
+terms; and it was not without a good deal of blotting, altering, and
+realtering, he at length formed an epistle to him in these terms:
+
+_To my more than father, my only patron,
+protector and benefactor, the most worthy
+DORILAUS._
+
+_Most dear and ever honoured Sir,_
+
+"To hear you are living, and still remember
+me with kindness, affords too great a
+transport to suffer me to throw away any thought
+either on the motives of your long silence,
+or that happiness, which you tell me, I may
+expect has been the produce of it:--it is
+sufficient for me to know I am still blessed in
+the favor of the most excellent person that
+ever lived, and am not in the least anxious for
+an explanation of any farther good.
+
+To tell you with how much ardency I long
+to throw myself at your feet, to relate to you
+all the various accidents that have befallen me
+since first you condescended to put me in the
+paths of glory, and to pour out my soul before
+you with thanksgiving, would be as impossible
+as it is for me at present to enjoy that blessing!--The
+king's affairs, it is true, would suffer
+nothing by my absence; but, sir, what would
+the world say of me, if, after a whole year of
+inactivity and idleness, I flew, on the first appearance
+of danger, and forsook a prince, by
+whom I have been so highly favoured?--Instead
+of the character I have always been ambitious
+of attaining, should I not be branded with
+everlasting infamy!--Put not therefore, I beseech
+you, to so severe a test that love and duty,
+to which you cannot have a greater claim than
+I a readiness to pay?--Did you command my
+life, it is yours:--I owe it to you, and with it
+all that can render it agreeable; but, sir, my
+honour, my reputation, must survive when I am
+no more; it was the first, and will be the last
+bent of my desires. No perils can come in any
+degree of competition with those of being deprived
+of that, nor any indulgencies of fortune
+compensate for the loss of it:--pardon then
+this enforced disobedience, and believe it is the
+only thing in which I could be guilty of it.--
+I very much lament my sister's absence, as I
+find by yours she went without your permission:
+time and reflection will doubtless bring her to a
+more just sense of what she, as well as myself,
+ought to have of your goodness to us, and make
+her return full of sincere contrition for having
+offended you. I should implore your favourable
+opinion of her actions in the mean time,
+were not all the interest I have in you too little
+to apologize for my own behaviour.--All, sir,
+I dare to implore is pardon for myself, and that
+you will be assured no son, no dependant whatever,
+would more rejoice in an opportunity of
+testifying his duty, affection, gratitude and submission,
+than him who is now constrained by
+ties, which I flatter myself you will not hereafter
+disapprove, to swerve in some measure
+from them, and whose soul and all the faculties
+of it are
+
+_Entirely devoted to you_.
+
+HORATIO."
+
+
+These dispatches being sent away, he became more composed, and set his
+whole mind on his departure, and taking leave of those friends and
+acquaintance he had contracted at Leipsic and Alranstadt; the time of
+the army marching being fixed in a few days, tho' what rout they were to
+take none, except count Piper, general Renchild, count Hoorn, and some
+few others of the cabinet council, were made privy to.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XIX.
+
+_The king of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with an
+instance of Russian brutality, drives the czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken prisoner
+by the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where they suffer the
+extremest miseries_.
+
+The word at length being given, the tents were struck, the trumpets
+sounded, and the whole army was immediately in motion. Never was a more
+gay and glorious fight; the splendor of their arms, and the richness of
+their habits blazed against the sun; but what was yet more pleasing, and
+spread greater terror among their enemies, was the chearfulness that sat
+on every face, and shewed they followed with the utmost alacrity their
+beloved and victorious monarch.
+
+It was in the latter end of September, a season extremely cold in those
+parts, that they began their march but hardships were natural to the
+king of Sweden's troops; and as they perceived they were going into
+Lithuania, a place where their valour had been so well proved against
+the invading Muscovites, their cheeks glowed with a fresher red on the
+remembrance of their former victories. They passed near Dresden, the
+capital of the electorate of Saxony, and made Augustus tremble in his
+palace, tho' the word of the king, which ever was inviolable, had been
+given that he should enjoy those dominions in peace.
+
+During the course of this, the czar had fallen upon the frontiers of
+Poland above twenty times, not like a general, desiring to come to a
+decisive battle, but like a robber, plundering, ravaging, and destroying
+the defenceless country people, and immediately flying on the approach
+of any troops either of Charles XII or king Stanislaus. The Swedes in
+their march met several parties sent on these expeditions, but who
+retired on sight of the army into woods, and were most of them either
+killed or taken prisoners by detachments sent in pursuit of them by the
+king of Sweden.
+
+In their march towards Grodno they found the remains of an encampment,
+several pieces of cannon and ammunition of all forts, but not one
+creature to guard it, the troops to whom it belonged having all
+dispersed and hid themselves. On examining the tents, they were
+surprized with the sight of a very beautiful woman, who was lying on the
+ground in one of them, with three others, who seemed endeavouring to
+comfort her, and, by the respect they paid her, that they were her
+dependents; but had all of them their garments torn and bloody, their
+hair hanging in strange disorder about their ears, their flesh
+discoloured with bruises and other marks of violence, and, as well as
+their disconsolate superior, were spectacles of the utmost distress.
+
+The king of Sweden himself, followed by general Hoorn, Poniatolky,
+Horatio, and several others, who hardly ever lost sight of him, came
+into this tent, and, being touched with so moving a scene, demanded the
+Occasion; on which the prostrate lady being told who it was that spoke,
+started suddenly up, and throwing herself at his feet:--Oh king! cried
+she in the German language, as famous for justice as for being
+invincible in war, revenge the cause of helpless innocence and
+virtue!--Oh let the murderous brutal Russians find heaven's vindictive
+arm in you its great vicegerent.--She was able to utter no more: the
+inward agonies she sustained, on being about to relate the story of her
+wrongs, became too violent for speech, and she sunk motionless on the
+earth. Two of the women, assisted by some Swedes, carried her out of the
+tent, as thinking the open air most proper to revive her; and she who
+remained, satisfied the king's curiosity in these words:
+
+May it please your majesty, said she, my mistress, that afflicted lady
+who just now implored your royal pity, is of the noble family of the
+Casselburgh, in Saxony, only daughter to the present count: her person,
+before these heavy misfortunes fell upon her, was deservedly reputed one
+of the most beautiful that graced the court of Dresden: her birth, her
+youth, her charms, and the great fortune it was expected she would be
+mistress of, attracted a great number of persons who addressed her for
+marriage: her own inclinations, as well as the count her father's
+commands, disposed of her to Emmermusky, a Polish nobleman; and she had
+been scarce one month a bride, before they unhappily took this journey to
+visit my lord's mother who lives at Travenstadt.--In our way we met a
+party of straggling Muscovites, who, notwithstanding the strict league
+between our elector and the czar, and the knowledge they had by our
+passports that we were Saxons, stripped us of every thing, killed all
+our men-servants and having given my lord several wounds, left him for
+dead upon the place, then dragged us miserable women to the camp.--My
+lady, in the midst of faintings, and when she was incapable even of
+flying to death for refuse, was brutally ravished, and we her wretched
+attendants suffered the same abuse.--Shame will not let me, continued
+she, blushing and weeping, acquaint your majesty with the shocking and
+repeated violations we were compelled to bear!--the wretches casting
+lots who first should gratify his monstrous desires!--We were all bound
+to trees, and without any means of opposition but our shrieks and cries
+to unrelenting heaven!--My lord having a little recovered himself, had
+crawled, as well as his wounds would give him leave, after us, and
+arrived even while the horrid scene was acting: rage giving him new
+strength and spirits; he snatched a sword that lay upon the earth, and
+sent to perdition the villain who was about to add to the dishonour
+which had been, alas! but too much completed by others. The death of
+their companion incensing the accursed Muscovites, they turned upon him,
+and in a moment laid him dead just at the feet of his ruined and almost
+expiring wife! After having satiated their wicked will, they left us,
+bound as we were, where we continued the remainder of the day and whole
+night, and had doubtless perished thro' hunger and extreme cold, if a
+second party had not passed that way, who having been out on a maroding,
+were then returning to the camp.--Being actuated by somewhat more
+compassion than the former, one of the officers made us be untied, and
+having heard our story, blamed the cruelty with which we had been
+treated, and brought us to his tent, the same we now are in, and ordered
+something should be given for our refreshment; but my lady has continued
+obstinate to dye, and to that end has refused all subsistence. This, oh
+invincible monarch! is the sad history of our misfortunes:--misfortunes,
+which, alas! can never be retrieved, nor admit any consolation but in
+the hope of vengeance!
+
+Here a torrent of tears closed the sad narration; and the king cried
+out, turning as he spoke to us that followed him,--It is the cause of
+heaven and earth, my friends, said he, to punish these barbarians, and
+shew them that there is a God; for sure at present they are ignorant
+of it!
+
+The generous monarch after this gave orders that these afflicted and
+abused woman should be escorted to a place of safety, and for that
+purpose halted for the space of two days, then proceeded towards Grodno
+with such expedition, that after-ages will look upon it as incredible
+that so large an army, and also encumbered with a great quantity of
+baggage, could have marched in the time they did.
+
+But the king of Sweden was on fire to encounter in person the czar of
+Muscovy, who, with about 2000 men, was then in that city: so great was
+his impatience, that he galloped before his troops, not above 600 of
+those best mounted being able to keep pace with him, till he came in
+sight of the south gate, which gave him entrance without any opposition,
+while the czar and his forces made their escape out at the north gate,
+not doubting but the king of Sweden's whole army were come up with him.
+
+He was afterward so much vexed and ashamed to think he had quitted the
+town to no more than 600 of the enemy, that, to retrieve a mistake which
+he feared might be looked upon as cowardice, being informed the body, of
+the army was near five leagues off, he sent a party of 1500 horse in
+order to surprize the king and his few guards. The Muscovites entered by
+night; but the alarm being given, the fortune which still had waited on
+the Swedish armies, immediately put them all to the rout; and the army
+soon after arriving, the conqueror lost no time, but pursued those that
+remained alive into the forest of Mensky, on the other side of which the
+czar had then entrenched himself, and had made the general rendezvous of
+the Russian army, which was continually divided into parties; and
+sometimes falling on the Swedes in the rear, and sometimes in the flank,
+very much annoyed them in their march: these brave men had also other
+difficulties to encounter with; the forest was so extremely thick, that
+the infantry were obliged to fell down trees every moment, during the
+whole time of their passage, to make way for the baggage and troops.
+
+Their industry and vigour surmounting all these obstacles, they once
+more found themselves in an open country, but on the banks of a river,
+on the opposite side of which were 20,000 Muscovites placed to oppose
+their crossing. The king made no delay, but quitting his horse, threw
+himself into the river, and was instantly followed by all the foot,
+while the troops under the command of general Renchild and Hoorn,
+galloped round thro' the morrass in which that river ended, and both
+together charged the enemy, who, after some faint shew of resistance,
+fled with the utmost precipitation. The whole army being now joined
+marched on toward the Boristhenes, but with fatigues which are
+impossible to be described: Horatio kept still close to the king, and
+whether he fought or marched, was on foot or on horsback, was always in
+his fight ready to bear his commands to the generals, or assist him in
+the time of danger. More than once had the conqueror been indebted to
+this young warrior, for turning the point of the destructive sword from
+giving him the same death he was dealing about to others; yet in all the
+dangers he had been in never had he received one wound, and this often
+made the king say, who was a firm believer in predestination, that
+heaven designed him for a soldier: his fortune, his valour, his
+activity, added to his obliging and modest behaviour, indeed rendered
+him so dear to his royal master, that there were very few, if any, to
+whom he gave greater marks of his favour. And had Dorilaus, or even
+Charlotta herself, all tender as she was, and trembling for the hazards
+she knew he had been exposed to, seen him thus caressed and honoured by
+the most glorious prince and greatest hero in the world, they could
+scarce have wished him to quit the post he was in, much less persuaded
+him to do it.
+
+He hitherto indeed had experienced only the happiness of a martial life,
+for the fatigues, hardships, and dangers of it he as little regarded as
+the intrepid and indefatigable prince he served; but now arrived the
+time which was to inflict on him the worst miseries of it, and make him
+almost curse a vocation he had been in his soul so much attached to.
+
+The king of Sweden, with his usual success having passed the
+Boristhenes, encountered a party of 10,000 Muscovites and 6000 Calmuck
+Tartars; but they gave way on the first onset and fled into a wood,
+where the king, following the dictates of his great courage more than
+prudence, pursuing them, fell into an ambuscade, which, throwing
+themselves between him and three regiments of horse that were with him,
+hem'd him in, and now began a very unequal fight.--Many of the gallant
+Swedes were cut to pieces, and the Muscovites made quite up to his
+majesty:--two aid-de-camps were killed within his presence, his own
+horse was shot under him, and as an equerry was presenting him with
+another, both horse and man was struck dead in the same moment.--Horatio
+immediately alighted in order to mount the king, who now on foot behaved
+with incredible valour, in that action was surrounded and taken
+prisoner, as were several others that had fought near his person. He had
+the satisfaction, however, while they were disarming and tying his
+hands, to see colonel Dardoff with his regiment force thro' the
+Calmucks, and arrive timely enough to disengage the king, after which
+the army recovering its rank, and pouring in upon the enemy, he was not
+without hopes of regaining his liberty; but he was sat upon a horse and
+bound fast to the saddle, and compelled, with the others that were taken
+with him, to accompany the Muscovites in their flight, so was ignorant
+in what manner this re-encounter ended. Soon after repairing to the
+czar's quarters, these unfortunate officers of the king of Sweden were,
+with some others who had before become their prize, sent under a strong
+guard to Petersburgh, and thrown altogether into a miserable dungeon.
+
+It would be impossible to describe the horrors of this place:--light
+there was, but it was only so much as just served to shew to each of
+these unhappy sufferers the common calamity of them all.--The roof was
+arched indeed, but so low, that the shortest among them could scarce
+stand upright:--no kind of furniture, not even straw to cover the damp
+earthen floor, which served them for a seat by day and bed at night.
+Inured as they had been to hardships, the noisomeness of this dreadful
+vault killed many of them, and among the rest a young Swedish officer
+named Gullinstern, one with whom Horatio had contracted a very intimate
+friendship, and who, for his many excellent qualities, had been so dear
+to the king, that seeing him one day greatly wounded, and in danger of
+being taker, prisoner, that generous prince obliged him to mount on his
+own horse, and fought on foot himself till another could be brought.
+
+The light of this gentleman expiring in his arms, filled Horatio with so
+poignant an anguish, that he wanted but little of following him; and,
+indeed, had it not been for the sanguine hopes that the king would in a
+short time complete the ruin of the czar, and not only restore them
+liberty, but also add vengeance to it for the ill treatment they had
+found in his dominions, few, if any of them, had been able to support
+the miseries inflicted on them by these inhuman wretches, who, not
+content with burying them in a manner alive, for the dungeon they were
+in was deep underground, and allowing them no other food than bread and
+water once in four and twenty hours, made savage sport at their
+condition, ridiculed the conquests of their king, and spoke in the most
+opprobrious terms of his royal person, which, when some of them were
+unable to restrain themselves from answering in a manner befitting their
+duty and love of justice, they were silenced by the most cruel stripes.
+
+Thus were the officers of the king of Sweden, the meanest of whom were
+fit to be generals in any other army, subjected to the servile taunts,
+and insolent behaviour of wretches undeserving to be ranked among the
+human species.
+
+A very little time had doubtless made them all find graves among these
+barbarians; scarce a day passed over without their company decreasing by
+two or three, who were no sooner dead than dragged out by the heels, and
+thrown like dogs into a pit without the least funeral rites. But
+providence at length thought fit to send them a relief by means they
+least expected.
+
+In one of the incursions made by the Muscovites into Poland, a very
+beautiful lady, whose father had been killed in asserting the cause of
+Stanislaus, was made prisoner: prince Menzikoff, who commanded these
+batallions, saw her, and became enamoured of her charms: she was
+destitute of all friends, and in the conqueror's power, so thought it
+best to yield what otherwise she found him determined to seize: in fine,
+she was his mistress; and her ready compliance with his desires,
+together with the love she either had or feigned to have for him,
+afterward gained her an absolute ascendant over him. Every one knows the
+interest he had with the czar; and he so far exerted it, as to get this
+fair favourite lodged in the palace, where she was served with the same
+state and respect as if she had been his wife.
+
+This lady, whose name was Edella, happened to be walking with some of
+her attendants near where these unfortunate gentlemen were buried, at a
+time when three of them were dragged to their wretched sepulchre, was
+touched with compassion to see any thing that had a human shape thus
+coarsely treated, tho' after death, and had the curiosity to order one
+of her people to enquire who those persons were, and what they had done,
+which hindered them from being allowed a christian burial.
+
+She was no sooner informed that they were Swedish prisoners, than her
+soul shuddered at the thoughts of the Russian barbarity; and not
+doubting but their usage during life had been of a piece with that after
+their death, she resolved, if possible, to procure some abatement of the
+miseries of those who yet survived.
+
+To this end she made it her business to examine what number of prisoners
+had been brought, of what condition they were, and where lodged; and
+being well acquainted with all she wanted to know, went to the governor
+of Petersburg, and so well represented how dishonourable it was to the
+czar, and how opposite to the law of nations, to treat prisoners of war
+in a worse manner than they would do condemned felons, that he knowing
+the power of prince Menzikoff, and fearing to disoblige one so dear to
+him by a refusal, consented they should be removed into an upper part of
+the prison where they would have more air, and also that they should
+have an allowance of meat every day.
+
+As the governor was a true Muscovite in his nature and had an implacable
+hatred to the king of Sweden and all that belonged to him, this was
+gaining a great deal; but it was not enough to satisfy the charitable
+disposition of Edella; after their removal, she went in person to visit
+those of them whom she heard were gentlemen, and finding them covered
+only with rags, which some of the soldiers had put on them after having
+stripped them of their own rich habits, she ordered others lined with
+furs to be made for them, to defend them from the coldness of the
+season; and not content to retrench a great part of her own table, sold
+several fine jewels, and other trinkets the prince had bestowed on her,
+to supply them with wine, and whatever necessaries she supposed them to
+be accustomed to. That she might be certain those entrusted by her did
+not abuse her good intentions, she went often to the prison herself to
+see how they were served, and would sometimes enter into discourse with
+them concerning the battles they had been in, the settlement of
+Stanislaus, and many other things relating to the Polish affairs. The
+gallant and courtly manner in which Horatio expressed himself on every
+occasion, made her take a particular pleasure in hearing him speak: that
+rough blunt behaviour to which she had been accustomed since her being
+brought a captive into Muscovy, gave double charms to the politeness
+with which she found herself entertained by our young warrior; his
+blooming years, and the gracefulness of his person, contributed not a
+little also towards rendering every thing he said more agreeable. Her
+liking of him grew by degrees into a friendship, no less tender than
+that one feels for very near relations, and who have never done any
+thing to disoblige us, are more endeared by being under undeserved
+calamity: but as the inclination she had for him was perfectly innocent,
+and no ways prejudicial to the prince who was in possession of her
+person, she made no secret of it either to himself or those she
+conversed with, and was always talking of the wit, delicacy, and
+handsomeness of one of those prisoners, whom it was well known were
+pensioners to her bounty. But how dangerous is it to be too open before
+persons who, void of all true generosity, or the lead principle of
+honour themselves, never fail to put the worst construction on the
+actions of others. Edella was very near being undone by her sincerity in
+acknowledging the distinction she paid to merit, or the compassion she
+felt for misfortunes, in a country where humanity to enemies is looked
+upon as a crime, friendship to those of the same party altogether
+unknown, and even common civility never practised but for the
+gratification of self-interest, or some favourite passion.
+
+This beautiful Polander however being treated by the Muscovites, on
+account of the influence she had over the prince Menzikoff, with as much
+complaisance as it was in their power to shew, imagined their
+disposition less savage than it was in reality; and when she testified
+the pity she had for those unhappy gentlemen, it was with design to
+excite it in others, and engage them to join with her in petitioning the
+czar, at his return, for their enlargement, there being no cartel or
+exchange of prisoners subsisting between him and the king of Sweden.
+
+Among the number she hoped to gain to her party was Mattakesa, the
+relique of a general who had been in great favour with his prince. This
+lady, who could speak French, having learned it of a recusant that took
+shelter in Russia, consented to go with her one day to the prison, and
+no sooner saw Horatio, than, unfortunately for him, Edella, and herself,
+she became charmed with him: as she was of the number of those who think
+nothing a crime that suits their own inclination, she took not the least
+pains to subdue the growing passion, but rather indulged it, in order to
+receive the highest degree of pleasure in the gratification. She doubted
+not but Edella was her rival, and that it was for his sake alone she had
+been so beneficent to his fellow-sufferers: to supplant her, therefore,
+was the first step she had to take, and she resolved to omit nothing for
+that purpose.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XX.
+
+_The treachery of a Russian lady to her friend: her passion for Horatio:
+the method he took to avoid making any return, and some other
+entertaining occurrences._
+
+It is easy to believe that Horatio, tho' relieved from that extremity of
+misery he suffered while in the dungeon, was far from being able to
+content himself with his present condition:--a thousand times he
+reproached himself for pursuing the dictates of a glory which now seemed
+so tyrannic:--Have I, cried he, hazarded the eternal displeasure of the
+best of men,--refused the invitation of the adorable
+Charlotta,--slighted the condescentions of her father,--been deaf both
+to interest and love, to become a prisoner to the worst of
+barbarians!--Who now will pity me!--Or if they yet would be so good, how
+shall I acquaint them with my wretched fate!--Nay, were there even a
+possibility of that, what would the compassion of the whole world avail,
+since a slave to those, who, contrary to the law of nations, and even
+common humanity, refuse, on any terms, to release the wretches fallen
+into their savage power!
+
+In this manner did he bewail himself night and day, and indeed had but
+too just reasons for doing so:--he had heard that the last time the czar
+had been at Petersburg, he had sent all the prisoners he had then taken
+to Siberia, and other province of the greater Tartary, where they were
+compelled, without any distinction, to do the work of horses rather than
+men, and doubted not but at his next return all those now in his power
+would meet the same fate, tho' the generous king of Sweden had sent back
+the Muscovites he had taken, by 1500 and 2000 at a time.--This, however,
+may be said in favour of the czar, that by the many attempts he made to
+civilize his barbarous subjects, it must be supposed he would have been
+glad to have imitated this generosity, had it been confident with his
+safety; but the case had this difference, Charles XII. feared not the
+number of the Muscovites, but the czar feared the courage of the Swedes.
+
+What also increased the affliction of these gentlemen, was, that being
+debarred from all intelligence, they could hear nothing of their king,
+whom each of them loved with a kind of filial affection and
+duty.--Horatio and two others had been witnesses of the extreme danger
+in which they left him; and tho' at the time they were seized he had
+killed thirteen or fourteen Muscovites with his own hand, and they
+perceived general Dardoff had come up to his relief, yet they could not
+be certain of his safety; till at length the sweet-conditioned Edella
+perceiving the despair they were in on this account, informed them that
+his majesty was not only well, but as successful as ever; that he had
+passed far into Ukrania, had defeated the Muscovites in five battles,
+and so far reduced the czar, that he had condescended to make some
+overtures of peace; which having been rejected, it was the common
+opinion, that in a very short time the Swedes would enter Moscow, and
+become arbiters of Russia as they had been of Poland.
+
+Adequate to their late grief was their satisfaction at this joyful
+news:--Horatio was transported above his companions, and threw himself
+at the feet of the fair intelligencer; but she desired they would all of
+them moderate their contentment so far as to hinder the guards, who had
+the care of them, from perceiving it, because, said she, it might not
+only draw on yourselves worse treatment, but also render me suspected of
+being against the interest of a court, on which my fate has reduced me
+to become a dependant.
+
+Horatio, as well as the others, assured her he would take care to manage
+the felicity she had bestowed upon them, so as not to be any way
+prejudicial to her; and she took her leave, promising to be with them
+again in a few days, and bring them farther information, a courier from
+the camp, she said, being expected every hour.
+
+But while this compassionate lady was pleasing herself, by giving all
+the ease in her power to the distressed, the cruel Mattakesa was
+plotting her destruction.--She had several of her kindred, and a great
+many acquaintance in the army, who were in considerable posts, to all of
+whom she exclaimed against the loose behaviour, as she termed it, of
+Edelia, and represented her charities to the prisoners as the effects of
+a wanton inclination:--this she doubted not but would come to prince
+Menzikoff's ears, and perhaps incense him enough to cause her to be
+privately made away with; for as she imagined nothing less than the most
+amorous intercourse between her and Horatio, she thought it unadvisable
+to declare the passion she had for him, till a rival so formidable, by
+the advantages she had over her in youth and beauty, should be removed.
+
+This base woman therefore impatiently waited the arrival of the next
+courier, to find how far her stratagem had succeeded; and the moment she
+heard he had delivered his dispatches, flew to the apartment of Edella,
+in hopes of being informed of what she so much desired to know.
+
+She was not altogether deceived in her expectations: she found that lady
+drowned in tears, with a letter lying open before her; and on her
+enquiring, with a shew of the utmost concern, the motives of her grief,
+the other, who looked on her as her real friend, replied, alas!
+Mattakesa, I have cruel enemies; I cannot guess for what cause, for
+willingly I never gave offence to any one;--but see, continued she, how
+barbarously they have abused my innocence, and represented actions
+which, heaven knows, were influenced only by charity and compassion as
+the worst of crimes! with these words she gave her the letter which she
+had just received from the prince,
+
+Mattakesa took it with a greedy pleasure, and found it contained these
+lines:
+
+_To_ EDELLA.
+
+Madam,
+
+
+"I left you in a place, furnished, as I thought,
+with every thing necessary for your satisfaction;
+but I find I was mistaken in your constitution,
+and that there was something wanting,
+which, rather than not possess, you must have
+recourse to a prison to procure:--ungrateful
+as you are to the affection I have treated you
+with, I am sorry for your ill conduct, and could
+with you had been, at least, more private in
+your amours: few men but would have sent an
+order for removing you and the persons, for
+whose sake you have made these false steps,
+into a place where you would have cause to
+curse the fatal inclination that seduced you:
+think therefore how much you owe a prince,
+who, instead of punishing your faults, contents
+himself with letting you know he is not ignorant
+of them.--If you make a right use of
+the lenity I shew on this occasion, you may
+perhaps retrieve some part of the influence you
+once had over me; but see the Swedish prisoners
+no more, if you hope or desire ever to see
+
+MENZIKOFF."
+
+
+Mattakesa affected the greatest astonishment on having read this letter;
+and after having cursed the persons that put such vile suspicions into
+the prince's head, asked her what she intended to do.
+
+What can I do! answered the sorrowful Edella, but write to my lord all
+the assurances that words, can give him, which heaven knows I can truly
+do, that I never wronged him even in wish or thought; and that since
+there are people so cruel to misinterpret to my dishonour, what was
+nothing but mere charity, to obey his commands with the utmost
+punctuality, and never set my foot into that prison more?
+
+Her false friend could not but applaud her resolution, yet told her it
+was pity that ill tongues should deprive those unfortunate gentlemen of
+the relief she had hitherto afforded them, or herself of the pleasure
+she took in their conversation.
+
+As for the first, said Edella, heaven may perhaps raise the mother
+friends more capable of lifting them; and as to the other, were it
+infinitely greater, it would be my inclination, as it is my duty, to
+sacrifice every thing to the will of a prince whom I love, and to whom I
+am so much obliged.
+
+Mattakesa having thus compared her design, so far as to be under no
+apprehensions of being interrupted by her imagined rival, tho' she had
+rather she had been poisoned or strangled, went directly to the prison
+and told the gentlemen, it was with the utmost concern she must acquaint
+them that Edella would never visit them any more, nor continue the
+weekly pension she had hitherto allowed them.
+
+Those among them who understood her, and the others to whom Horatio
+interpreted what she said, looked one upon another with a great deal of
+consternation, as imagining one of them had done something to offend
+her, and thereby the rest were thought unworthy of her
+favours.--Everyone endeavoured to clear himself of what he easily saw
+his companions suspected him guilty of; till Mattakesa, with a scornful
+smile, told them, that it was not owing to the behaviour of any of them,
+but to Edella's own inconstant disposition, that they owed the
+withdrawing of her bounty; but to console them for the loss of it, she
+promised to speak to some of her friends in their behalf, and also to
+contribute something herself towards alleviating their misfortunes; but,
+added she, I am not the mistress of a prince and first favourite, so
+have it not in my power to act as the generosity of my nature
+inclines me to do.
+
+She stayed with them a considerable time, and entertained them with
+little else than railing on Edella; and to make her appear as odious and
+contemptible as she could to Horatio, insinuated that it was for the
+sake of a young needy favourite she had been obliged to withdraw the
+allowance they had from her.
+
+On taking leave she found means to slip a little billet into Horatio's
+hands, unperceived by any of the company, which, as soon as he had a
+convenient opportunity, he opened, and found these words in French:
+
+_To the agreeable_ HORATIO.
+
+SIR,
+
+
+"Tho' I have not perhaps so much beauty
+as Edella, I have twice her sincerity, and
+not many years older: such as I am, however,
+I fancy you will think a correspondence with
+me of too much advantage to be refused:--if
+you will counterfeit an indisposition, to-morrow
+I will out of excessive charity visit you, and
+bring you a refreshment, I flatter myself, will
+not be disagreeable to a man in your circumstances:--farewell;--be
+secret,--and love as well as you can,
+
+_Yours_,
+
+MATTAKESA."
+
+
+Of all the accidents that had befallen Horatio since his leaving
+England, none ever so much surprized him as the prodigious impudence of
+this lady: he had heard talk of such adventures, but never till now
+believed there could be any such thing in nature, as a woman that
+offered herself in this manner, without the least sollicitation from the
+person on whom she wished to lavish what ought only to be the reward of
+an approved, or at least a shew of the most violent passion.
+
+The dilemma he was in how to behave, was also equal to his
+astonishment:--had she been the most lovely of her sex, as she was very
+much the reverse, the ever present idea of his dear Charlotta would have
+defended his heart from the invasions of any other charms; but he needed
+not that pre-engagement to make him look with detestation on a woman of
+Mattakesa's principles:--when he reflected on what she had said
+concerning Edella, he found her base, censorious, and unjust:--and when
+he considered the manner in which she proceeded in regard to himself, he
+saw a lewdness and audacity which rendered her doubly odious, to
+him:--he doubted not but she was wicked and subtle enough to contrive
+some means of revenging herself, in case she met with a disappointment
+in her wishes, yet had too great an abhorrence to be able to entertain
+one thought of gratifying them.
+
+As he was young and unexperienced in the world, he would have been glad
+of some advice how to act so as not to incur her resentment, yet avoid
+her love; but the strict notions he had of honour remonstrated to him
+that he ought not to betray a secret of that nature, tho' confided in
+him by an ill woman.--Her baseness, cried he to himself, would be no
+excuse for mine; and it is better for me to risque whatever her malice
+may inflict, than forfeit my character, by exposing a woman who pretends
+to love me.
+
+These thoughts kept him waking the whole night; and his restlessness
+being observed by an old Swedish officer who by with him, he was very
+much importuned by him to discover to him the occasion.--Horatio
+defended himself for a good while by the considerations before recited;
+but at length reflecting; that the person who was so desirous of being
+let into the secret, had a great deal of discretion, he at length
+suffered himself to be prevailed upon, and told him what Mattakesa had
+wrote to him, for he did not understand a word of French, so could not
+read the letter.
+
+This officer no sooner heard the story, than he laughed heartily at the
+scruples of Horatio, in thinking himself bound to conceal an affair of
+this nature with a woman of the character Mattakesa must needs be:--he
+also rallied his delicacy, as he termed it, in hesitating one moment
+whether he should gratify the lady's inclinations.--One would imagine,
+said he, that so long a fall from love as we have had, should render our
+appetites more keen:--what, tho' Mattakesa be neither handsome nor very
+young, she is a woman, and amorous, and methinks there should need no
+other excitements to a young man like you.
+
+Horatio, tho' naturally gay, was not at present in a disposition to
+continue this raillery, and told his friend, he looked on this
+inclination of Mattakesa to be as great a misfortune as could happen to
+them; for, said he, as it is wholly out of my power to make her any
+returns, that violence of temper which has transported her to forget the
+modesty of her sex, will probably, when she finds herself rejected, make
+her as easily throw off all the softness of it; and you may all feel the
+effects of that revenge she will endeavour to take on me.
+
+The other was entirely of his opinion; and they both agreed that, some
+way ought to thought on to avert the storm, her resentment might in all
+probability occasion.
+
+After many fruitless inventions, they at last hit upon one which had a
+prospect of success: they had in their company a gentleman called
+Mullern, nephew to chancellor Mullern, who had attended the king in all
+his wars: he was handsome, well made, and his age, tho' much superior to
+that of Horatio, yet was not so far advanced as to render him
+disagreeable to the fair sex: he was of a more than ordinary sanguine
+disposition, and had often said, of all the hardships their captivity
+had inflicted on them, he felt none so severely as being deprived of a
+free conversation with women.--In the ravages the king of Sweden's arms
+had made in Lithuania, Saxony and Poland, he was sure to secure to
+himself three or four of the finest women; and tho' he had been often
+checked by his uncle, and even by the king himself, for giving too great
+a loose to his amorous inclinations, yet all their admonitions were too
+weak to restrain the impetuosity of his desires this way. To him,
+therefore, they resolved to communicate the affair; and as he was in
+other respects the most proper object among them to succeed in
+supplanting Horatio, so he was also by being perfectly well versed in
+the French language, which the rest were ignorant of.
+
+Accordingly they told him what had happened, shewed him the letter, and
+how willing Horatio would be to transfer all the interest he had in this
+lady to him, if he could by any means ingratiate himself into her
+favour. Mullern was transported at the idea; and the stratagem contrived
+among them for this purpose was executed in the following manner:
+
+Mattakesa was punctual to the promise she had made in her letter; and
+when she came into the room, where she usually found the gentlemen
+altogether, it being that where they dined, and saw not Horatio, she
+doubted not but he had observed her directions, and pretended himself
+indisposed, so asked for him, expecting to be told that he was ill; but
+when they answered that he was gone with one of the keepers to the top
+of the round tower, in order to satisfy his curiosity in taking a view
+of the town, she was confounded beyond expression, and could not imagine
+what had occasioned him to slight an assignation, she had flattered
+herself he would receive with extacy.
+
+As she was in a little resvery, endeavouring to comprehend, if possible,
+the motive of so manifest a neglect, Mullern drew near to her, and
+beginning to speak of the beauties of that fine city which the czar had
+erected in the midst of war, he told her, that having a little skill in
+drawing, he had ventured to make a little sketch of it in chalk on the
+walls of the room where he lay, and entreated her in the most gallant
+manner to look upon it, and give him her opinion how far he had done
+justice to an edifice so much admired.
+
+It cannot be supposed that Mattakesa had in her soul any curiosity to
+see a work of this nature, yet, to hide as much as she could the
+disorder she was in at her disappointment, gave him her hand, in order
+to be concluded to the place where he pretended to have been exercising
+his genius.
+
+As soon as they were entered he threw the door, as if by incident, which
+having a spring lock, immediately was made fast--She either did not, or
+seemed not to regard what he had done; but casting her eyes round the
+room, and seeing nothing of what he had mentioned,--Where is this
+drawing? cried she. In my heart, adorable Mattakesa, answered he, falling
+at her feet at the same time:--it is not the city of Petersburg, but the
+charming image of its brightest ornament, that the god of love has
+engraven on my heart in characters too indelible ever to be
+erased:--from the first moment I beheld those eyes my soul has been on
+fire, and I must have consumed with inward burnings had I not revealed
+my flame:--pardon, continued he, the boldness of a passion which knows
+no bounds; and tho' I may not be so worthy of your love as the too happy
+Horatio, I am certainly not less deserving of your pity.
+
+Surprize, and perhaps a mixture of secret satisfaction prevented her
+from interrupting him during the first part of his discourse; but rage,
+at the mention of Horatio, forced from her this exclamation:--has the
+villain then betrayed me! cried she.--No, madam, replied he, justice
+obliges me to acquit him, tho' my rival.--He had the misfortune, in
+putting your billet into his pocket, to let it fall; I took it up unseen
+by him,--opened it, read it, and must confess, that all my generosity to
+my friend was wholly swallowed up in my passion for you.--I returned not
+to him that kind declaration you were pleased to make him, and he is
+ignorant of the blessing you intended for him:--if the crime I have been
+guilty of seem unpardonable in your eyes, command my death, I will
+instantly obey you, for life would be a torment under your displeasure;
+and if, in my last moments, you vouchsafe some part of that softness to
+the occasion of my fate, that you so lavishly bestowed on the fortunate
+Horatio, I will bless the lovely mouth that dooms me to destruction!
+
+He pronounced all this with an emphasis, which made her not doubt the
+power of her charms; and surveying him while he was speaking, found
+enough in his person to compensate for the disappointment she had met
+with from Horatio: besides, she reflected, that if what he had told her
+concerning the dropping her letter, was a fiction, it was however an
+ingenious one, and shewed his wit, as well as love, in bringing both
+himself and friend off in so handsome a manner. She was infatuated with
+the praises he gave her;--the pathetic expressions he made use of,
+assured her of the ardency of his desires, and as she could not be
+certain of being able to inspire Horatio with the same, she wisely chose
+to accept the present offer, rather than wait for what might perhaps at
+last deceive her expectations. She made, however, no immediate answer;
+but her eyes told him she was far from being displeased with what he had
+said, and gave him courage to take up one of her hands and kiss it, with
+an eagerness which confirmed his protestations.
+
+At last,--Well, Mullern, said she, looking languishingly on him, since
+chance has made you acquainted with my foible, I think I must bribe you
+to secrecy, by forgiving the liberties you take with me:--and if I were
+convinced you really love me as well as you pretend, might indulge you
+yet farther.--An unaccountable caprice indeed swayed me in favour of
+Horatio, but I am now half inclinable to believe you are more deserving
+my regard;--but rise, continued she, I will hear nothing from you while
+in that posture.
+
+Mullern, who was no less bold in love than war, immediately obeyed her,
+and testified his gratitude for her condescention, by giving a sudden
+spring and snatching her to his breast, pressed her in so arduous a
+manner, that she would have been incapable of resisting, even tho' she
+had an inclination to do so: but she, no less transported than himself,
+returned endearment for endearment, and not only permitted, but assisted
+all his raptures,--absolutely forgot Horatio, as well as all sense of
+her own shame, and yielded him a full enjoyment without even an
+affectation of repugnance.
+
+Both parties, in fine, were perfectly satisfied with each other, and
+having mutually sworn a thousand oaths of fidelity which neither of
+them, it is probable, had any intention to keep, Mullern took upon
+himself the care of continuing to entertain her in private as often as
+she came to the prison, and in return she made him a present of a purse
+of gold, after which they passed into the outer room to prevent censures
+on their staying too long together.
+
+On their return they found Horatio with the other gentlemen. Abandoned
+as Mattakesa was, she could not keep herself from blushing a little at
+sight of him; but soon recovering herself by the help of her natural
+audacity,--Well, Horatio, said she, what do you think of the little
+French epigram I put into your hands yesterday;--has it not a very
+agreeable point?
+
+Horatio had such an aversion to all kind of deceit, that even here,
+where it was so necessary, he could not, without some hesitation, answer
+to what she said in these words.--Some accident or other, cried he,
+deprived me of the pleasure you were so good to intend me; for when I
+put my hand in my pocket thinking to read it, I perceived I was so
+unhappy as to have lost, it:--I looked for it in vain:--it was
+irrecoverably gone, and I am an utter stranger to the contents.
+
+And ever shall be so, replied she tartly, only to punish your
+carelessness of a lady's favour; know, that it was a piece of wit which
+would have been highly agreeable to you:--but don't expect I shall take
+the pains to write it over again, or even tell you the subject on which
+it turned.
+
+Horatio cooly said, he could not but confess he had been to blame, and
+must therefore allow the justice of her proceeding. As none present
+besides himself, his bedfellow, and Mullern, knew the truth of this
+affair, what passed between them was taken by the others as literally
+spoken, and little suspected to couch the mystery it really did.
+
+Mullern, after this, by the assistance of Horatio and the old officer,
+had frequent opportunities of gratifying his own and the amorous
+Mattakesa's desires.--The testimonies she gave him how well she was
+pleased with his conversation, were for the common good of his
+companions.--Horatio was easy in finding himself out of all danger of
+any solicitations he was determined never to acquiesce in; and those
+three who were in the secret passed their time pleasantly enough,
+whenever they had an opportunity of talking on this adventure, without
+any of the others being witnesses of what they said.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXI.
+
+_The prisoners expectations raised: a terrible disappointment: some of
+the chief carried to prince Menzikoff's palace: their usage there.
+Horatio set at liberty, and the occasion_.
+
+Our captives had soon after a new matter of rejoicing: a Polander in the
+service of Muscovy, who had been taken prisoner by the Swedes, and was
+discharged and sent home, with a great number of others, by the
+unparallell'd generosity of Charles XII. was one of the guards who now
+did duty in the prison. It was often his turn to bring them their poor
+allowance of provision; and having some pity for their condition, as
+well as gratitude for a people who had used him and his companions in a
+different manner, told them, that they might be of good heart, for, said
+he, you will soon be set at liberty:--our emperor has enough to do to
+keep his ground in Ukraina: Charles is as victorious as ever:--the
+prince of the Cosaques, one of the bravest men on earth, next to
+himself, has entered into an alliance with him:--king Stanislaus is
+sending him succours from Poland:--a powerful reinforcement is coming to
+him from Lithuania; and when these armies are joined, as I believe they
+already are, nothing can withstand them:--you will hear the Swedish
+march beat from this prison walls,--and perhaps see your present
+conquerors change places with you; and, to confirm the truth of what I
+say, continued he, I can further assure you that the czar, before I left
+the camp, was in the utmost confusion:--his council, as well as army,
+were at a stand, and he had twice made overtures of peace, and
+been refused.
+
+This was an intelligence which might well be transporting to the king of
+Sweden's officers:--the thought; of seeing him enter Petersburgh a
+conqueror,--of once more embracing their old friends and companions, and
+of triumphing over those who had so cruelly abused the power the chance
+of war had put into their hands, made them all, in their turns, hug and
+bless the kind informer:--they also asked him several questions
+concerning the generals; and each being more particular concerning those
+they had the greatest interest in, received from this honest soldier all
+the satisfaction they could desire.
+
+As couriers were continually arriving from the army, there passed few
+days without hearing some farther confirmation of their most sanguine
+expectations; but at length the guard being again changed, they lost all
+further intelligence, and were for several months without being able to
+hear any thing of what passed. They doubted not, however, but as things
+were in so good a disposition, every day brought them nearer to the
+completion of their wishes; and it was this pleasing prospect which
+addressed their misfortunes, and enabled them to sustain cheerfully
+those hardships which, almost ever since the withdrawing of Edella's
+bounty, they had laboured under.--Mattakesa, in the beginning of her
+amours with Mullern, had indeed made him some presents, which he shared
+with his companions; but either the natural inconstancy of her temper
+making her grow weary of this intrigue for the sake of another, or her
+circumstances not allowing her to continue such Donations, she soon grew
+sparing of them, and at length totally desisted her visits at
+the prison.
+
+As, ever since the compassionate Edella had procured them to be
+removed from the dungeon, they had enjoyed the privilege of walking on
+the leads, and going up to the round tower, which being of a very great
+height, not only overlooked the town, but the country round for a
+considerable distance, they frequently made use of this indulgence, at
+first for no other purpose than to have the benefit of the open air, but
+now in hope of seeing their beloved prince at the head of a victorious
+army approaching to give them liberty and relief.--But, alas! how
+terrible a reverse of their high-raised expectations had inconstant
+fortune in store for them.--One day as they were sitting together,
+discoursing on the usual topics with which they entertained each other,
+and endeavoured to beguile the tedious time, they heard a confused noise
+as of some sudden tumult.--Tho' they had now been above a year in
+Russia, none of them could speak the language well enough to be
+understood, so could receive no information from the guard, even should
+they have proved good-natured enough to be willing to satisfy their
+curiosity, so they all run hastily up to the round tower, whence they
+easily perceived the town in great confusion, and the people running in
+such crowds, that in the hurry many were trampled to death in
+endeavouring to pass the gates:--at a distance they perceived standards
+waving in the air, but could not yet distinguish what arms they bore.--A
+certain shivering and palpitation, the natural consequence of suspence,
+ran thro' all their nerves, divided as they were at this sight, between
+hope and fear; but when it drew more near,--when, instead of Swedish
+colours they beheld those of Russia;--when, in the place where they
+expected to see their gallant king coming to restore them once more to
+freedom, they saw the implacable czar enter in triumph, followed by
+those heroes, the least of whom had lately made him tremble, now in
+chains, and exposed to the ribald mirth and derision of the gaping
+crowd, they lost at once their fortitude, and even all sense of
+expressing their grief at this misfortune:--the shock of it was so
+violent, it even took away the power of feeling it, and they remained
+for some moments rather like statues carv'd out by mortal art, than real
+men created by God, and animated with living souls. A general groan was
+the first mark they gave of any sensibility of this dreadful stroke of
+fate; but when recruited spirits once more gave utterance to words, how
+terrible were their exclamations! Some of them, in the extravagance of
+despair, said things relating to fate and destiny, which, on a less
+occasion, could have little merited forgiveness.
+
+Unable either to remove from the place, or view distinctly what their
+eyes were fixed upon, they stayed till the whole cavalcade was passed,
+then went down and threw themselves upon the floor, where their ears
+were deafen'd by the noise of guns, loud huzza's, and other testimonies
+of popular rejoicings, both within and without the prison walls.--What
+have we now to expect? cried one,--endless slavery:--chains, infamy,
+lasting as our lives, replied another. Then let us dye, added a third.
+Right, said his companion feircely;--the glory of Sweden is lost!--Let
+us disappoint these barbarians, these Russian monsters, of the pleasure
+of insulting us on our country's fall.
+
+In this romantic and distracted manner did they in vain endeavour to
+discharge their breasts of the load of anguish each sustained.--Their
+misfortune was not of a nature to be alleviated by words;--it was too
+mighty for expression; and the more they spoke, the more they had yet to
+say.--For three whole days they refused the wretched sustenance brought
+to them; neither did the least slumber ever close their eyelids by
+night: on the fourth the keeper of the prison came, and told them they
+must depart.---They endeavoured not to inform themselves how or where
+they were to be disposed of; in their present condition all places were
+alike to them, so followed him, without speaking, down stairs, at the
+bottom of which they found a strong guard of thirty soldiers, who having
+chained them in a link, like slaves going to be sold at the market,
+conducted them to a very stately palace adjoining to that belonging
+to the czar.
+
+They were but eight in number, out of fifty-five who had been taken
+prisoners at the time Horatio was, and were thrown altogether in the
+dungeon, the others having perished thro' cold and the noysomeness of
+the place, before Edella had procured them a more easy situation; but
+these eight that survived were all officers, and most of them men of
+distinguished birth as well as valour, tho' their long imprisonment,
+scanty food, and more than all, the grief they at present laboured under
+made them look rather like ghosts, than men chose out of thousands to
+fight always near the king of Sweden's person in every
+hazardous attempt.
+
+They were placed in a stately gallery, and there left, while the
+officer, who commanded the party that came with them, went into an inner
+room, but soon after returned, and another person with him; on which,
+the first of this unhappy string was loosed from his companions, and a
+signal made to him to enter a door, which was opened for him, and
+immediately closed again.
+
+For about half an hour there was a profound silence: our prisoners kept
+it thro' astonishment; and the others, it is to be supposed, had orders
+for doing so.--At the end of that time the door was again opened, and
+the chain which fastened the second Swede to the others, was untied, and
+he, in like manner as the former, bid to go in.--In some time after, the
+same ceremony was observed to a third;--then to a fourth, fifth, sixth,
+and seventh:--Horatio chanced to be the last, who, tho' alarmed to a
+very great degree at the thoughts of what fate might have been inflicted
+on his companions, went fearless in, more curious to know the meaning of
+this mysterious proceeding, than anxious for what might befal him.
+
+He had no sooner passed the door, than he found himself in a spacious
+chamber richly adorned, at the upper end of which sat a man, leaning his
+head upon his arm in a thoughtful posture.--Horatio immediately knew him
+to be prince Menzikoff, whom he had seen during a short truce between
+the czar and king Charles of Sweden, when both their armies were in
+Lithuania. There were no other persons present than one who had the
+aspect of a jew, and as it proved was so, that stood near the prince's
+chair, and a soldier who kept the door.
+
+Horatio was bid to approach, and when he did so,--you are called hither,
+said the jew in the Swedish language, to answer to such questions as
+shall be asked you, concerning a conspiracy carried on between you and
+your fellow-prisoners with the enemies of Russia. Horatio understood the
+language perfectly well, having conversed so long with Swedes, but never
+could attain to a perfect pronounciation of it, so replied in French,
+that he knew the prince could speak French, and he would therefore
+answer to any interrogatories his highness should be pleased to make
+without the help of an interpreter.
+
+Are you not then a Swede? said the prince. Horatio then told him that he
+was not, but came from France into the service of the king of Sweden
+merely thro' his love of arms.
+
+On these words Menzikoff dismissed the jew, and looked earnestly on him;
+wan and pale as he was grown thro' his long confinement, and the many
+hardships he had sustained, this prince found something in him that
+attracted his admiration.--Methinks, said he, since glory was your aim,
+you might as well have hoped to acquire it under the banners of our
+invincible emperor.
+
+Alas! my lord, replied Horatio with a sigh, that title, till very
+lately, was given to the king of Sweden, and, I believe, whatever fate
+has attended that truly great prince, those who had the honour to be
+distinguished by him, will never be suspected either of cowardice or
+baseness.--It was by brave and open means our king taught his soldiers
+the way to victory, not by mean subterfuges and little plots:--I cannot
+therefore conceive for what reason I am brought hither to be examined on
+any score that has the appearance of a conspiracy.
+
+Yes, replied the prince feircely, you and your fellow-prisoners have
+endeavoured to insinuate yourselves into the favour of persons whom you
+imagined entrusted with the secrets of the government:--being prisoners
+of war, you formed contrivances for your escape, and attempted to
+inveigle others to accompany your flight.
+
+That every tittle of this accusation is false, my lord, cried Horatio,
+there needs no more than the improbability of it to prove.--Indeed the
+cruel usage we sustained, might have justified an attempt to free
+ourselves, yet did such a design never enter our heads:--we were so far
+from making use of any stratagems for that purpose, that we never made
+the least overture to any of the guards, who were the only persons we
+were allowed to converse with.
+
+How! said the prince interrupting him, were not your privileges enlarged
+by the interposition of a lady?--Did she not make you considerable
+allowances out of her own purse, and frequently visit you to receive
+your thanks?--And were you not emboldened by these favours to urge her
+to reveal what secrets were in her knowledge, and even to assist you in
+your escape?--You doubtless imagined you could prevail on her also to go
+with you:--part of this, continued he, she has herself confessed:--it
+will therefore be in vain for you to deny it:--if you ingenuously reveal
+these particulars she has omitted, you may hope to find favour; but it
+you obstinately persist, as your companions have done, in attempting to
+impose upon me, you must expect to share the same fate immediately.
+
+In speaking these words he made a sign to the soldier, who throwing open
+a large folding door, discovered a rack on which one of the Swedish
+officers was tied, and the others stood near bound, and in the hands of
+the executioner.
+
+This sight so amazed Horatio, that he had not the power of speaking one
+word;--till Mullern, who happened to be the person that was fastened
+upon the rack, cried out to him,--Be not lost in consideration, Horatio,
+said he; are we not in the hands of Muscovites, from whom nothing that
+is human can be expected?--rather prepare yourself to disappoint their
+cruelty, by bravely suffering all they dare inflict.
+
+Hold then, said Horatio, even Muscovites would chuse to have some
+pretence for what they do; and sure the first favourite and
+generalissimo of a prince, who boasts an inclination to civilize his
+barbarous subjects, will not, without any cause, torture them whom
+chance alone has put into his power, and who have never done him any
+personal injury.--By heaven, pursued he, turning to the prince, we all
+are innocent of any part of those crimes laid to our charge:--time,
+perhaps, if our declarations are ineffectual, will convince your
+highness we are so, and you will then regret the injustice you have
+done us.
+
+You all are in one story, cried the prince, but I am well assured of the
+main point:--the particulars is all I want to be informed of:--but since
+I am compelled to speak more plain, which of you is it for whose sake
+you all received such instances of Edella's bounty?--Whoever tells me
+that, even tho' it be the person himself, shall have both pardon
+and liberty.
+
+Impossible it is to express the astonishment every one was in at this
+demand: five of them had not the least notion what it meant; but
+Mullern, Horatio, and that friend to whom he had shewn the letter of
+Mattakesa, had some conjecture of the truth, and presently imagined that
+lady had been the incendiary to kindle the flame of jealousy in the
+prince's breast. The affair, however, was of so nice a nature, that they
+knew not how to vindicate Edella without making her seem more guilty, so
+contented themselves with joining with the others, in protesting they
+knew of no one among them who could boast of receiving any greater
+favours from her than his fellows, but that what she did was instigated
+merely by compassion, since she had never seen, or knew who any of them
+were, till after she had moved the governor in their behalf:--they
+acknowledged she had been so good as to come sometimes to the prison, in
+order to see if those she entrusted with her bounty had been faithful in
+the delivery of it; but that she never made the least difference between
+them, and never had conversation with any one of them that was not in
+the presence of them all. Mullern could not forbear adding to this, that
+he doubted not but the persons who had incensed his highness into
+groundless surmises, were also the same who had hindered her, by some
+false insinuations or other, from continuing the allowance her charity
+allowed them, and for the want of which they had since been near
+perishing.
+
+Prince Menzikoff listened attentively to what each said, and with no
+less earnestness fixed his eyes on the face of every one as they
+spoke.--Finding they had done, he was about giving some orders on their
+account, when the keeper of the prison came hastily into the room, and
+having entreated pardon for the interruption, presented a letter to the
+prince, directed for brigadier Mullern, and brought, he said, just after
+the prisoners were carried out.
+
+Menzikoff commended his zeal in receiving and bringing it to him, as it
+might possibly serve to give some light to the affair he was examining.
+
+Having perused it, he demanded which of them was named Mullern? I am,
+replied the brave Swede; and neither fear, nor am ashamed of any thing
+under that name.
+
+Hear then what is wrote to you by a lady, resumed the prince, with a
+countenance more serene than he had worn since their being brought
+before him, and presently read with a very audible voice these words:
+
+
+"That you have been so long without
+seeing me, my dear Mullern, or hearing
+from me, is not owing to any decrease in my
+affection, but to the necessity of my affairs:--if
+you have any regard for me remaining, I
+conjure you, if ever you are asked any questions
+concerning the frequent visits I have made
+you, to say I was sent by Edella, and that I was
+no more than her emissary in the assistance you
+received from me:--add also, that you have
+reason to believe her charity was excited by
+her liking one of your company:--mention
+who you think fit; but I believe Horatio, as
+the youngest and most handsome, will be the
+most likely to gain credit to what you say.--
+Depend upon it, that if you execute this commission
+artfully, I will recompence it by procuring
+your liberty:--nor need you have any
+scruples concerning it, for no person will be
+prejudiced by it, and the reputation preserved
+of
+
+_Yours,_
+
+MATTAKESA."
+
+
+I suppose, said the prince, as soon as he had done reading, turning to
+Horatio, you are the person mentioned in the letter? Tho' I neither
+desire nor deserve the epithets given me there my lord, replied he, yet
+I will not deny but I am called Horatio.
+
+Well, resumed the prince with a half smile, I am so well pleased with
+the conviction this letter has given me, that I shall retain no
+resentment against the malicious author of it.
+
+He then ordered Mullern to be taken from the rack, which had never been
+strained; nor had he any intention, as he now assured him, to put him to
+the torture, but only to intimidate him, being resolved to make use of
+every method he could think of for the full discovery of every thing
+relating to the behaviour of his beloved Edella.--The other gentlemen
+had also their fetters taken off, and the prince asked pardon of them
+severally for the injury he had done them; then made them sit down and
+partake of a handsome collation at that table, before which they had so
+lately stood as delinquents at a bar.
+
+The Russians are excessive in their carouses, and prince Menzikoff being
+now in an admirable good humour, made them drink very freely:--to be the
+more obliging to his guests, he began the king of Sweden's health in a
+bumper of brandy, protesting at the same time, that tho' an enemy to his
+master, he loved and venerated the hero: Horatio on this ventured to
+enquire in what condition his majesty was; to which the prince replied,
+that being greatly wounded, he was obliged to leave the field, and, it
+was believed, had took the load toward the dominions of the grand
+signior, some of the Russian troops having pursued him as far as the
+Borysthenes where, by the incredible valour of a few that attended him,
+they had been beat back.
+
+The Swedish officers knew it must be bad indeed when their king was
+compelled to fly; and this renewed in them a melancholy, which it was
+not in the power of liquor, or the present civilities of the prince to
+dissipate: they also learned that the generals Renchild, Slipenbock,
+Hamilton, Hoorn, Leuenhaup, and Stackelburg, with the prince of
+Wirtemburg, count Piper, and the flower of the whole army, were
+prisoners at Muscow.
+
+The misfortune of these great men would have been very afflicting to
+those who heard it, could any thing have given addition to what they
+knew before.--Prince Menzikoff was sensible of what they felt, and to
+alleviate their grief, assured them that he would take upon him to give
+them all their liberty, without even exacting a promise from them never
+more to draw their swords against the czar, in case the king of Sweden
+should ever be able to take the field again.
+
+So generous a proceeding both merited and received their utmost
+acknowledgments: but he put an end to the serious demonstrations they
+were about to make him of their gratitude, by saying,--I pay you no more
+than I owe you:--I have wronged you:--this is but part of the
+retaliation I ought to make:--besides, added he laughing, Mattakesa
+promised Mullern his freedom; and as she has done me the good office,
+tho' undesignedly, of revealing to me her own treachery, I can do no
+less than assist her in fulfilling, her covenant.
+
+To prove how much he was in earnest, he called his secretary, and
+ordered him to make out their passports with all expedition, that they
+might be ready to depart next morning; after which he made them repose
+themselves in his palace the remainder of the night; which being in a
+manner vastly different from what they had been accustomed to of a long
+time, indeed ever since their quitting Alranstadt, they did not fail to
+do, notwithstanding the discontent of their minds.
+
+Prince Menzikoff, being now convinced of the fidelity of Edella, passed
+into her apartment, where the reconciliation between them took up so
+much time, that it was near noon next day before he appeared: his new
+guests had not quitted their chambers much sooner; but after reproaching
+themselves for having been so tardy, went altogether to take leave of
+the prince, and accept the passports he had been so good to order. As
+they were got ready, he gave them immediately into their hands, and told
+them, they were at liberty to quit Petersburg that moment, if they
+pleased; or if they had any curiosity to take a view of that city, they
+might gratify it, and begin their journey next morning. As it was now so
+late in the day, they accepted his highness's offer, and walked out to
+see a place which had excited so much admiration in the world, since
+from a wild waste, in ten years time, a spacious and most beautiful city
+had arose in the midst of war, and proved the genius of the founder
+greater in civil than in military arts, tho' it must be owned he was
+indefatigable in the study of both.
+
+The officers of the king of Sweden were entertained with the same
+elegance and good humour they had been the night before; and as they
+were now resolved to quit the city extremely early, the prince took
+leave of them that night, and in doing so put a purse of gold into the
+hands of every one to defray the expenses of their travelling. This
+behaviour obliged them to own there was a possibility of sowing the
+seeds of humanity in Muscovy, and that the czar had made some progress
+in influencing those about him with the manners he had himself learned
+in the politer courts.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXII.
+
+_What befel Louisa in the monastery: the stratagem she put in practice
+to get out of it: her travels thro' Italy, and arrival in Paris_.
+
+But while Horatio was thus experiencing the vicissitudes of fortune, his
+beautiful sister suffered little less from the caprice of that fickle
+goddess. Placed as she was, one would have thought she had been secure
+from all the temptations, hurries, and dangers of the world, and that
+nothing but the death or inconstancy of monsieur du Plessis could have
+again involved her in them. These, indeed, were the sole evils she
+trembled at, and which she chiefly prayed might not befal her. Yet as it
+often happens that those disasters which seem most remote are nearest to
+us, so did the disappointments she was ordained to suffer, rise from a
+quarter she had the least reason to apprehend.
+
+The abbess and nuns, with whom she was, being all Italians, she set
+herself to attain to the knowledge of their language, in which she soon
+became a very great proficient, and capable of entertaining them, and
+being entertained by them in the most agreeable manner.--The sweetness
+of her temper, as well as her good sense, rendering her always ambitious
+of acquiring the affection of those she converted with, she had the
+secret to ingratiate herself not only to the youngest nuns, but also to
+the elder and most austere, that the one were never pleased but when in
+her company, and the others propose her as an example of piety and
+sweetness to the rest.
+
+She had a very pretty genius to poetry, and great skill in music, both
+which talents she now exercised in such works as suited the place and
+company she was in.--The hymns and anthems she composed were not only
+the admiration of that convent, but also of several others to whom they
+were shown, and she was spoke of as a prodigy of wit and devotion.
+
+In fine, her behavior rendered her extremely dear to the superior; and
+that affection joined to a spiritual pride, which those sanctified
+devotees are seldom wholly free from, made her very desirous of
+retaining her always in the convent:--she was therefore continually
+preaching up to her the uncertainty of those felicities which are to be
+found in the world, and magnifying that happy serenity which a total
+renunciation from it afforded;--nay, sometimes went so far, as to
+insinuate there was scarce a possibility for any one encumbered with the
+cares, and surrounded with the temptations of a public life, to have
+those dispositions which are requisite to enjoy the blessings of
+futurity.--Ah my dear daughter, would she say frequently to her, how
+much should I rejoice to find in you a desire to forgo all the
+transitory fleeting pleasures of the world, and devote yourself entirely
+to heaven!--what raptures would not your innocent soul partake, when
+wholly devoid of all thought of sensual objects! you would be, even
+while on earth, a companion for angels and blessed spirits, and borne on
+the wings of heavenly contemplation, have your dwelling above, and be
+worshipped as a saint below.
+
+All the old nuns, and some of the young ones, assisted their abbess in
+endeavouring to prevail on Louisa to take the veil; but all that they
+said made no impression on her mind, not but she had more real piety
+than perhaps some of those who made so great a shew of it, but she was
+of a different way of thinking; and tho' she knew the world had its
+temptation, having experienced them in a very great degree, yet she
+was-convinced within herself, that a person of virtuous principles might
+be no less innocent out of a cloyster than in one.--She saw also among
+this sisterhood a great deal of envy to each other, and perceived early
+that the flaming zeal professed among them was in some hypocrisy, and
+enthusiasm in others; so that had she had no prepossession in favour of
+du Plessis, or any engagement with him, the life of a nun was what she
+never should have made choice of.
+
+She kept her sentiments on this occasion entirely to herself however,
+and made no shew of any repugnance to do as they would have her; but
+whenever they became strenuous in their pressures, told them, she
+doubted not but such a life as they described must be very angelic, but
+having already disposed of her vows, it was not in her power to withdraw
+them, nor would heaven accept so violated an offering. This, they told
+her, was only a suggestion of some evil spirit, and that all engagements
+to an earthly object, both might and ought to be dispensed with for a
+divine vocation. The arguments they made use of for this purpose were
+artful enough to have imposed on some minds, but Louisa had too much
+penetration not to see thro' them; and being unwilling to disoblige them
+by shewing that she did so, made use, in her turn, of evasions which the
+circumstances of the case rendered very excusable. But fully persuaded
+in their minds that it was solely her engagements with du Plessis that
+rendered her so refractory to their desires, they resolved to break it
+off, if possible, and to that end now intercepted his letters; two of
+which giving an account that he was very much wounded and unable to
+travel, they renewed their pressures, in order to prevail on her to take
+the habit before he should be in a condition to come to Bolognia.
+
+These sollicitations, however, had no other effect than to embitter the
+satisfaction she would otherwise have enjoyed during her stay among
+them;--the time of which began now to seem tedious, and she impatiently
+longed for the end of the campaign, which she expected would return her
+dear du Plessis to her, and she should be removed from a place where
+dissimulation, a vice she detested, was in a manner necessary. She had
+received several letters from him before the abbess took it in her head
+to stop them, each more endearing than the former; and last had
+flattered her with the hope of seeing him in a very short time.
+
+Days, weeks, and months passed over, after an assurance so pleasing to
+her wishes, without any confirmation of the repeated vows he had made;
+and receiving from him no account of the reasons that delayed him, she
+began to reproach herself for having placed too much confidence in
+him;--the more time elapsed, the more cause she had to doubt his
+sincerity, and believe her misfortune real:--in fine, it was near half a
+year that she languished under a vain expectation of seeing, or at least
+hearing from him.--Sometimes she imagined a new object had deprived her
+of his heart; but when she called to mind the many proofs he had given
+her of the most unparallell'd generosity that ever was she could not
+think that if he even ceased to love her, he could be capable of leaving
+her in so cruel a suspence:--no, said she to herself, he would have let
+me know I had no more to depend on from him:--paper cannot blush, and as
+he is out of the reach of my upbraidings, he would certainly have
+acquainted me with my fate, confessed the inconstancy of his sex, and
+exerted that wit, of which he has sufficient, to have excused his
+change:--I will not therefore injure a man whom I have found so truly
+noble:--death, perhaps, his deprived me of him; the unrelenting sword
+makes no distinction between the worthy and unworthy;--and the brave,
+the virtuous du Plessis, may have fallen a victim in common with the
+most vulgar.
+
+These apprehensions had no sooner gained ground in her imagination, than
+she became the most disconsolate creature in the world. The abbess took
+advantage of her melancholy, as knowing the occasion of it, and began to
+represent, in the strongest terms, the instability of all human
+expectations:--you may easily see, my dear child, said she, that
+monsieur either no longer lives, or ceases to live for you:--young men
+are wavering, every new object attracts their wishes;--they are
+impatient for a time, but soon grow cool;--absence renders them
+forgetful of their vows and promises;--there is no real dependance on
+them;--fly therefore to that divine love which never can deceive
+you;--give yourself up to heaven, and you will soon be enabled to
+despise the fickle hopes of earth.
+
+Instead of saying any thing to comfort her, in this manner was she
+continually persecuted; and tho' it is impossible for any one to have
+less inclination to a monastic life than she had, yet the depression of
+her spirits, the firm belief she now should never see du Plessis more,
+the misfortune of her circumstances, joined to the artifices they made
+use of, and the repeated offers of accepting her without the usual sum
+paid on such occasions, might possibly at last have prevailed on
+her.--She was half convinced in her mind that it was the only asylum
+left to shield her from the wants and insults of the world; and the more
+she reflected on the changes, the perplexities, and vexation, of
+different kinds, the few years she yet had lived had presented her with,
+the more reason she found to acquiesce with the persuasions of the
+abbess. But heaven would not suffer the deceit practised on her to be
+crowned with success, and discovered it to her timely enough to prevent
+her from giving too much way to that despair, which alone could have
+prevailed with her to yield to their importunities.
+
+There was among the sisterhood a young lady called donna Leonora, who
+being one of many daughters of a family, more eminent for birth than
+riches, was compelled, as too many are, to become a nun, in order to
+prevent her marrying beneath her father's dignity. She had taken a great
+liking to Louisa from the moment she came into the convent, and a
+farther acquaintance ripened it into a sincere friendship. Tho' secluded
+from the world, the austere air of a monastery had no effect upon her,
+she still retained her former vivacity; and it was only in the
+conversations these two had toge whenever they could separate from the
+others, that Louisa found any cordial to revive her now almost
+sinking spirits.
+
+One day as she was ruminating on her melancholy affairs, this young nun
+came hastily into her chamber, and with a countenance that, before she
+spoke, denoted she had something very extraordinary to acquaint her
+with,--dear sister, cried she, I bring you the most surprising news, but
+such as will be my ruin if you take the least notice of receiving it
+from me; and perhaps your own, if you seem to be acquainted with it
+at all.
+
+It is not to be doubted but Louisa gave her all the assurances she could
+desire of an inviolable secrecy; after which, know then, resumed this
+sweet-condition'd lady, that your lover, monsieur du Plessis, is not
+only living, but as faithful as your soul can wish, or as you once
+believed:--the cruelty of the abbess, and some of the sisterhood in the
+plot with her, have concealed the letters he has sent to you, in order
+to persuade you to become a nun:--I tremble to think of their hypocrisy
+and deceit:--but what, continued she, is not to be expected from bigotry
+and enthusiasm!--To increase the number of devotees they scruple
+nothing, and vainly imagine the means is sanctified by the end.
+
+Little is it in the power of words to express the astonishment Louisa
+was in to hear her speak in this manner; but as she had no room to doubt
+her sincerity, only asked by what means she had attained the knowledge
+of what the persons concerned, no doubt, intended to keep as much a
+secret as possible; on which the other satisfied her curiosity in
+these terms:
+
+To confess the truth to you, said she, I stole this afternoon into the
+chapel, in order to read a little book brought me the other day by one
+of my friends; as it treated on a subject not allowable in a convent, I
+thought that the most proper place to entertain myself with it; and was
+sitting down in one of the confessionals, when hearing the little door
+open from the gallery, I saw the abbess and sister Clara, who, you know,
+is her favourite and confidant, come in together, and as soon as they
+were entered, shut the door after them. I cannot say I had any curiosity
+to hear their discourse; but fearing to be suspected by them in my
+amusement, and not knowing what excuse to make for being there, if I
+were seen, I slid down, and lay close at the bottom of the confessional.
+They happened to place themselves very near me; and the abbess taking a
+letter out of her pocket, bad Clara read it, and tell her the substance
+of it as well as she could. I found it was in French, by some words
+which she was obliged to repeat over and over, before, not perfectly
+understanding the language, she could be able to find a proper
+interpretation of. The abbess, who has a little smattering of it
+herself, sometimes helped her out, and between them both I soon found it
+came from monsieur du Plessis, and contained the most tender and
+compassionate complaint of your unkindness in not answering his
+letter;--that the symptoms he had of approaching death were not half so
+severe to him as your refusing him a consolation he stood for much in
+need of;--that if you found him unworthy of your love, he was certainly
+so of your compassion; and concluded with the most earnest entreaty, you
+would suffer him to continue no longer in a suspence more cruel than a
+thousand deaths could be.
+
+Oh heaven! cried Louisa, bursting into tears, how ungrateful must he
+think me, and how can I return, as it deserves, so unexampled a
+constancy, after such seeming proofs of my infidelity!--. Cruel, cruel,
+treacherous abbess! pursued she; Is this the fruits of all your boasted
+sanctity!--This the return to the confidence the generous du Plessis
+reposed in you!--This your love and friendship to me!--Does heaven, to
+increase the number of its votaries, require you to be false,
+perfidious, and injurious to the world!
+
+She was proceeding in giving vent to the anguish of her soul in
+exclamations such as these; but Leonora begged she would moderate her
+grief, and for her sake, as much as possible, conceal the reasons she
+had for resentment. Louisa again promised she would do her utmost to
+keep them from thinking she even suspected they had played her
+false;--then cried, But tell me, my dear Leonora, were they not a little
+moved at the tender melancholy which, I perceive, ran thro' this
+epistle? Alas! my dear, replied the other, they have long since forgot
+those soft emotions which make us simpathize in the woes of
+love:--inflexible by the rigid rules of this place, and more by their
+own age, they rather looked with horror than pity on a tender
+inclination:--they had a long conversation together, the result of which
+was to spare nothing that might either persuade, or if that failed,
+compel you to take the order.
+
+It is not in their power to do the latter, interrupted Louisa; and this
+discovery of their baseness, more than ever, confirms me in the
+resolution never to consent.
+
+You know not what is in their power, said Leonora; they may make
+pretences for confining you here, which, as they are under no
+jurisdiction but the church, the church will allow justifiable:--indeed,
+Louisa, continued she, I should be loth to see you have recourse to
+force to get out of their hands which would only occasion you ill
+treatment:--to whom, alas, can you complain!--you are a stranger in this
+country, without any one friend to espouse your cause:--were even Du
+Plessis here in person, I know not, as they have taken it into their
+heads to keep you here, if all he could urge, either to the pope or
+confessory, would have any weight to oblige them to relinquish you. A
+convent is the securest prison in the world; and whenever any one comes
+into it, who by any particular endowment promises to be an ornament to
+the order, cannot, without great difficulty, disentangle themselves from
+the snares laid for them.--It is for this reason I have feared for you
+ever since your entrance; for tho' I should rejoice in so agreeable a
+companion, I know too well the miseries of an enforced attachment to
+wish you to be partaker of it.
+
+Louisa found too much reason in what she said, to doubt the misery of
+her condition;--she knew the great power of the church in all these
+countries where the roman-catholic religion is established, more
+especially in those places under the papal jurisdiction, and saw no way
+to avoid what was now more terrible to her than ever. Those reflections
+threw her into such agonies, that Leonora had much ado to keep her from
+falling into fits:--she conjured her again and again, never to betray
+what she had entrusted her with; assuring her, that if it were so much
+as guessed at, she should be exposed to the worst treatment, and
+punished as an enemy to the order of which she was a member. Louisa as
+often assured her that nothing should either tempt or provoke her to
+abuse that generous friendship she had testified for her; but as she was
+not able to command her countenance, tho' she could her words, she
+resolved to pretend herself indisposed and keep her bed, that she might
+be the less observed, or the change in her should seem rather the
+effects of ill health than any secret discontent.
+
+It was no sooner mentioned in the convent that she was out of order,
+than the abbess herself, as well as the whole sisterhood, came to her
+chamber, and shewed the greatest concern: the tender care they took of
+her would have made her think herself infinitely obliged to them, and
+perhaps gone a great way in engaging her continuance among them, had she
+not been apprized of their falshood in a point so little to be forgiven.
+
+So great an enemy was she to all deceit herself, that it was difficult
+for her to return the civilities they treated her with, as they might
+seem to deserve; but whatever omissions she was guilty of in this
+particular, were imputed to her disposition; and the whole convent
+continued to be extremely assiduous to recover her.
+
+During the time of her feigned illness, her thoughts were always
+employed on the means of getting away. Whenever Leonora and she were
+together, a hundred contrivances were formed, which seemed equally alike
+impracticable; but at length they hit upon one which had a promising
+aspect and Louisa, after some scruples, resolved to make trial of.
+It was this:
+
+As hypocrisy was made use of to detain her, hypocrisy was the only
+method by which she could hope to get her liberty:--pretending,
+therefore, to be all at once restored to her former health, she sent to
+entreat the abbess, and some other of the most zealous of the sisterhood
+to come into her chamber, where, as soon as they entered, they found her
+on her knees before the picture of the virgin, and seeming in an extacy
+of devotion: Yes, holy virgin, cried she, as if too much taken up to see
+who entered, I will obey your commands;--I will devote myself entirely
+to thee;--I will follow where thou callest me: thou, who hast restored
+me, shalt have the first fruits of my strength:--and oh that Lorretto
+were at a greater distance,--to the utmost extent of land and sea would
+I go to seek thee!--In uttering these ejaculations she prostrated
+herself on the floor;--then rising again, as transported in a manner out
+of herself,--I come,--I come, cried she;--still do I hear thy
+heavenly voice!
+
+In this fit of enthusiasm did she remain for above half an hour, and so
+well acted her part, that the abbess, who would not offer to interrupt
+her, believed it real, and was in little less agitation of spirit than
+Louisa pretended to be.
+
+At length seeming; to come to herself, she turned towards the company,
+as tho' she but just then discovered they were in the room; Oh, madam,
+said she to the abbess, how highly favoured have I been this blessed
+night!--The virgin has herself appeared to me, whether in a vision, or
+to my waking eyes, I cannot well determine; but sure I have been in such
+extacies, have felt such divine raptures, as no words can express!
+
+Oh my dear daughter! cried the abbess, how my soul kindles to behold
+this change in thee!--but tell me what said the holy virgin!
+
+She bad me wait on her at Lorretto, answered she, and gave me hopes of
+doing something wonderful in my favour:--I will therefore, with your
+permission, undertake a pilgrimage and at her shrine expiate the
+offences of my past life in tears of true contrition, and then return a
+pure and fearless partaker of the happiness you enjoy in an
+uninterrupted course of devotion:--oh! exclaimed she, exalting her
+voice, how do I detest and despise the vanities and follies of the
+world!--how hate myself for having been too much attached to them, and
+so long been cold and negligent of my only happiness!
+
+The abbess, and, after her, all the nuns that were present, embraced
+Louisa,--praised to the skies this miraculous conversion, as they termed
+it, and spared nothing to confirm the pious resolution she had taken.
+
+In fine, they consented to her pilgrimage with a satisfaction equal to
+what she felt in undertaking it,--they not in the least doubting but she
+would return to them as soon as she had fulfilled her devotions, and
+flattering themselves that the report of this miracle would do the
+greatest honour to their convent that it could possibly receive; and
+she, delighted with the thoughts of being at liberty to enquire after
+her dear du Plessis, and being freed from a dissimulation so irksome to
+her nature.
+
+Her pilgrim's habit, and a great crucifix to carry between her hands,
+with another at her girdle, and all the formalities of that garb being
+prepared, she set forward with the prayers and benedictions of the whole
+sisterhood, who told her, that they should be impatient till they saw
+her again, and expected great things from her at her return, which, in
+reality, they all did, except Leonora, who laughed heartily at the
+deception she had put upon them, and whispered in her ear as she gave
+her the last embrace, that she wished her a happy meeting with that
+saint she went in search of.
+
+To prevent all suspicion of her intention she left her cloaths, and
+every thing she had brought into the convent, under the care of the
+abbess, saying, that, at her return, she would have them disposed of,
+and the money given to the poor: but, unknown to any one except Leonora,
+she quilted some pieces of gold and valuable trinkets into her
+undergarment, as not doubting but she should have occasion for much more
+than, in effect, she was mistress of.
+
+When on her journey, the pleasure she felt at seeing herself out of the
+walls of the monastery, was very much abated by the uncertainty how she
+should proceed, or where direct her way: and indeed, let any one figure
+to themselves the condition she was in, and they will rather wonder she
+had courage to go on, than that she was sometimes daunted even to
+despair.--A young creature of little more than eighteen years
+old,--wholly unacquainted with fatigue,--delicate in her
+frame,--wandering alone on foot in the midst of a strange
+country,--ignorant of the road, or had she been acquainted with it, at a
+loss where to go to get any intelligence of what she sought, and even
+doubtful if the person she ran such risques to hear of, yet were in the
+world or not. The letter Leonora had informed her of, gave no account,
+at least that she could learn, either where he was, or whether there
+were any hopes of his recovery from that illness it mentioned; she had
+therefore every thing to dread, and little, very little to hope: yet did
+she not repent her having quitted the convent; and the desire of getting
+still farther from it, made her prosecute her journey with greater
+strength and vigour than could have been expected: her pilgrim's habit
+was not only a defence against any insults from persons she met on the
+road, but also attracted the respect, and engaged the civilities of
+every one.--As that country abounds with religious houses, she was not
+only lodged and fed without any expence, but received a piece of money
+at each of them she went to, so that her little stock, instead of being
+diminished, was considerably increased when she came to Lorretto, for
+thither, not to be false in every thing, she went; and being truly sorry
+for the hypocrisy which a sad necessity alone could have made her guilty
+of, paid her devotion with a sincere heart, tho' free from that
+enthusiasm and bigotry which is too much practised in convents.
+
+From Lorretto she crossed the country to Florence, every one being ready
+to direct a holy pilgrim on her way, and assist her with all things
+necessary. As she went very easy journeys, never exceeding four or five
+miles a day, she easily supported the fatigue; and had she been certain
+at last of seeing du Plessis, it would have been rather a pleasure to
+her; but her mind suffered much more than her body during this
+pilgrimage, which she continued in the same manner she had begun till
+she reached Leghorn, where a ship lying at anchor, and expecting to sail
+in a few days for Marseilles, she agreed to give a small matter for her
+passage, the sea-faring-men not paying altogether so much regard to her
+habit, as the land ones had done.
+
+No ill accident intervening, the vessel came safely into her desired
+port, and Louisa now found herself in the native country of the only
+person who engrossed her thoughts: as she had heard him say he was of
+Paris, she supposed that the most likely place to hear news of him, but
+was in some debate within herself whether she should continue to wear
+her pilgrim's habit, or provide herself with other cloaths at
+Marseilles. She was weary of this mendicant way of travelling, and could
+have been glad to have exchanged it for one more agreeable to the manner
+in which she had been accustomed; but then, when she considered how
+great a protection the appearance she made, had been from all those
+insults, to which a person of her sex and age must otherwise infallibly
+have been exposed in travelling alone, she resolved not to throw it off
+till she came to the place where she intended to take up her abode, at
+least for some time. Young as she was, she had well weighed what course
+to take in case du Plessis should either be dead, or, by some accident,
+removed where she could hear nothing more of him; and all countries and
+parts being now equal to her, as she must then be reduced once more to
+get her bread by her labour, she doubted not but to find encouragement
+for her industry as well in Paris as elsewhere.
+
+With this resolution, therefore, after laying one night at Marseilles,
+she proceeded on her way in the same fashion as she had done ever since
+she left Bolognia, and in about six weeks got safely to that great and
+opulent city, where she took up her lodging at a hotel, extremely
+fatigued, as it is easy to believe, having never even for one day ceased
+walking, but while she was on board the ship which brought her to
+Marseilles, for the space of eight months; a thing almost incredible,
+and what perhaps no woman, but herself, would have had courage to
+undertake, or resolution to perform, but was, in her circumstances,
+infinitely the most safe and expedient that prudence could suggest.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXIII.
+
+_Shews by what means Louisa came to the knowledge of her parents, with
+other occurrences_.
+
+The first thing she did on her arrival, was to send for proper persons
+to equip her in a manner that she might once more appear herself,
+resolving that till she could do so, not to be seen in the streets.
+
+While these things were preparing, she sent a person, whom the people of
+the house recommended to her, to the palace of the prince of Conti, not
+doubting but that some of the gentlemen belonging to his highness might
+give some intelligence where monsieur du Plessis was to be found; but
+the messenger returned without any other information, than that they
+knew him very well, but could give no directions in what part he was at
+present, he not having been seen in Paris for a long time.
+
+It is hard to say whether she most rejoiced or grieved at this account:
+she imagined that had he been dead they would not have been ignorant of
+it, therefore concluded him living to her infinite satisfaction; but
+then his absenting himself from the capital of the kingdom, and from the
+presence of a prince who had so much loved him, filled her with an
+adequate disquiet, as believing some very ill accident must have been
+the occasion:--she dispatched the same person afterwards to all the
+public places that she heard gentlemen frequented, but met not with the
+least success in her enquiries. It would prolong this narrative to a
+tedious length, should I attempt any description of what she felt in
+this situation, or the reflections she made on the odd circumstances of
+her life:--the greatness of her spirit, and the most perfect resignation
+to the divine will, however, made her support even this last and
+severest trial with fortitude and patience; and as soon as she had put
+herself into a convenient neat garb, but plain, befitting her condition,
+she went out with a design to take a private lodging, where she might
+live more cheaply than she could at the hotel, till providence should
+throw some person in the way that might recommend her either to work, or
+to teach young ladies music.
+
+She was wandering thro' several of the streets of Paris, without being
+able, as yet, to find such a chamber as she wanted, when a great shower
+of rain happening to fall, she stood up under the porch of a large house
+for shelter till it should be over, which it was not for a considerable
+time; and the street being very dirty, she returned to the hotel,
+intending to renew her search the next day: she had not been come in
+above half an hour, before the man of the house told her that a servant,
+in a very rich livery, who, he perceived, had followed her, and had
+asked many questions concerning her, was now returned, and desired to
+speak with her.
+
+As du Plessis was ever in her thoughts, a sudden rush of joy overflowed
+her heart, which seemed to her the presage of seeing him, tho' how he
+should imagine she was in Paris was a mystery:--but she gave herself not
+much time for reflection, before she ordered the man to be admitted.
+
+The manner of his approaching her was very respectful; but the message
+he had to deliver seemed of a contrary nature.--After having asked if
+her name was Louisa, and she answering that it was, I come, madam, said
+he, from a gentleman who saw you stand just now at the gate of a house
+in the Fauxbourg St. Germains, he commands me to tell you, that he has
+something of moment to acquaint you with, and desires you will permit me
+to call a chair, and attend you to his house, where he is impatient to
+receive you.
+
+What, indeed, could Louisa think of a person who should send for her in
+this manner?--all the late transport she was in, was immediately
+converted into disdain and vexation at being taken, as she had all the
+reason in the world to suppose, for one of those common creatures who
+prostitute their charms for bread.--
+
+Tell your master, said she, that by whatever accident he has learned my
+name, he is wholly ignorant of the character of the person he has sent
+you to:--that I am an entire stranger at Paris, and he must have
+mistaken me for some other, who, perhaps, I may have the misfortune to
+resemble, and may be also called as I am;--at least I am willing to
+think so, as the only excuse can be made for his offering this
+insult:--but go, continued she, with that pride which is natural to
+affronted virtue;--go, and convince him of his error;--and let me hear
+no more of it.
+
+It was in vain he assured her that his master was a person of the
+highest honour, and that he was not unknown to her. All he could say had
+not the least effect unless to enflame her more; when, after asking his
+name, the fellow told her he was forbid to reveal it, but that he was
+confident she would not deny having been acquainted with him when once
+she saw him.
+
+I shall neither own the one, cried she, nor consent to the other; then
+bid him a second time be gone, with an air which shewed she was not to
+be prevailed upon to listen to his arguments.
+
+This man had no sooner left her than she fell into a deep study, from
+which a sudden thought made her immediately start:--the count de
+Bellfleur came into her head; and she was certain it could be no other
+than that cruel persecutor of her virtue, that her ill fate had once
+more thrown in her way.--As she knew very well, by what he had done,
+that he was of a disposition to scruple nothing for the attainment of
+his wishes, she trembled for the consequences of his discovering where
+she was.--The only way she could think on to avoid the dangers she might
+be exposed to on his account, was to draw up a petition to the prince of
+Conti, acquainting him that she was the person who was near suffering so
+much from the ill designs he had on her at Padua, when so generously
+referred by monsieur du Plessis, and to entreat his highness's
+protection against any attempts he might be safe enough to make.
+
+She was just sitting down, in order to form a remonstrance of this kind,
+when a chariot and six stopping at the door, she was informed the
+gentleman who had sent to her was come in person, and that they knew it
+was the same by the livery.--Louisa run hastily to the window and saw a
+person alight, whom, by the bulk and stature, she knew could not be the
+count she so much dreaded, this having much the advantage of the other
+in both. Somewhat reassured by this sight, she ordered the master of the
+hotel to desire him to walk into a parlour, and let him know she would
+attend him there.
+
+As she saw not the face of this visitor, she could not be certain
+whether it were not some of those she had been acquainted with at
+Venice, who having, by accident, seen her at Paris, might, according to
+the freedom of the French nation, take the liberty of visiting her;--but
+whoever it were, or on what score soever brought, she thought it best to
+receive him in a place where, in case of any ill usage, she might
+readily have assistance.
+
+The master of the hotel perceiving her scruples, readily did as he was
+ordered, and Louisa having desired that he, or some of his people, would
+be within call, went down to receive this unknown gent, tho' not without
+emotions, which at that moment she knew not how to account for.
+
+But soon after she was seized with infinitely greater, when, entering
+the parlour, she found it was no other than Dorilaus who had given her
+this anxiety.--Surprize at the sight of a person whom, of all the world,
+she could least have expected in that place, made her at first start
+back; and conscious shame for having, as she thought, so ill rewarded
+his goodness, mixed with a certain awe which she had for no other person
+but himself, occasioned such a trembling, as rendered her unable either
+to retire or move forward to salute him, as she otherwise would
+have done.
+
+He saw the confusion she was in, and willing to give it an immediate
+relief, ran to her, and taking her in his arms,--my dear, dear child,
+said he, am I so happy to see thee once more!--Oh! sir, returned she
+disengaging herself from his embrace, and falling at his feet!--How can
+I look upon you after having flown from your protection, and given you
+such cause to think me the most ungrateful creature in the world!
+
+It was heaven, answered he, that inspired you with that abhorrence of my
+offers, which, had you accepted, we must both have been eternally
+undone!--You are my daughter, Louisa! pursued he, my own natural
+daughter!--Rise then, and take a father's blessing.
+
+All that can be said of astonishment would be far short of what she felt
+at these words:--the happiness seemed so great she could not think it
+real, tho' uttered from mouth she knew unaccustomed to deceit:--a
+hundred times, without giving him leave to satisfy her doubts, did she
+cry out, My father!--my father!--my real father!--How can it be!--Is
+there a possibility that Louisa owes her being to Dorilaus!
+
+Yes, my Louisa, answered he, and flatter myself, by what I have observed
+of your disposition, you have done nothing, since our parting, that
+might prevent my glorying in being the parent of such a child.
+
+The hurry of spirit she was in, prevented her from taking notice of
+these last words, or at least from making any answer to them, and she
+still continued crying out,--Dorilaus, my father!--Good heaven! may I
+believe I am so blessed?--Who then is my mother!--Wherefore have I been
+so long ignorant of what I was!--And how is the joyful secret at
+last revealed!
+
+All these things you shall be fully informed of, answered he; in the
+mean time be satisfied I do not deceive you, and am indeed your father:
+transported to find my long lost child, whom I myself knew not was so
+till I believed her gone for ever;--a thousand times I have wished both
+you and Horatio were my children, but little suspected you were so, till
+after his too eager ambition deprived me of him, and my mistaken love
+drove you to seek a refuge among strangers.
+
+Tears of joy and tenderness now bedewed the faces of both father and
+daughter:--silence for some moments succeeded the late acclamations; but
+Dorilaus at length finding her fully convinced she was as happy as he
+said she was, and entirely freed from all those apprehensions which had
+occasioned her flying from him, told her he was settled in Paris; that
+he lived just opposite to the house where she had stood up on account of
+the shower, and happening to be at one of his windows immediately knew
+her; that he sent a servant after her, who had enquired how long she had
+been arrived, and in what manner she came; that he had sent for her with
+no other intent then to make trial how she would resent it, and was
+transported to find her answer such as he hoped and had expected from
+her:--he added, that he had all the anxiety of a father to hear by what
+means she had been supported, and the motive which induced her to travel
+in the habit of a pilgrim, as the matter of the hotel had informed his
+servant; but that he would defer his satisfaction till she should be in
+a place more becoming his daughter.
+
+On concluding these words he called for the master of the hotel, and
+having defrayed what little expences she had been at since her coming
+there, took her by the hand and led her to his chariot, which soon
+brought them to a magnificent, house, and furnished in a manner
+answerable to the birth and fortune of the owner.
+
+Louisa had all this time seemed like one in a dream:--she had ever loved
+Dorilaus with a filial affection; and to find herself really his
+daughter, to be snatched at once from all those cares which attend
+penury, when accompanied with virtue, and an abhorrence of entering into
+measures inconsistent with the strictest honour, to be relieved from
+every want, and in a station which commanded respect and homage, was
+such a surcharge of felicity, that she was less able to support than all
+the fatigues she had gone thro'--Surprize and joy made her appear more
+dull and stupid than she had ever been in her whole life before; and
+Dorilaus was obliged to repeat all he had said over and over again, to
+bring her into her usual composedness, and enable her to give him the
+satisfaction he required.
+
+But as soon as she had, by degrees, recollected herself, she modestly
+related all that had happened to her from the time she left him;--the
+methods by which she endeavoured to earn her bread,--the insults she was
+exposed to at mrs. C--l--ge's;--the way she came acquainted with
+Melanthe;--the kindness shown her by that lady;--their travels
+together;--the base stratagem made use of by count de Bellfleur to ruin
+her with that lady--the honourable position monsieur du Plessis had
+professed for her;--the seasonable assistance he had given her, in that
+iminent danger she was in from the count's unlawful designs upon
+her;--his placing her afterwards in the monastry,--the treachery of the
+abbess;--the artifice she had been obliged to make use of to get out of
+the nunnery;--her pilgrimage;--in fine, concealed no part of her
+adventures, only that which related to the passion she had for du
+Plessis, which she endeavoured, as much as she could, to disguise, under
+the names of gratitude for the obligations he had conferred upon her,
+and admiration of his virtue, so different from what she had found in
+others who had addressed her.
+
+Dorilaus, however, easily perceived the tenderness with which she was
+agitated on the account of that young gentleman, but he would not excite
+her blushes by taking any notice of it, especially as he found nothing
+to condemn in it, and had observed, throughout the course of her whole
+narrative, she had behaved on other occasions with a discretion far
+above her years, he was far from wronging her, by suspecting she had
+swerved from it in this.
+
+But when he heard the vast journey she had come on foot, he was in the
+utmost amazement at her fortitude, and told her he was resolved to keep
+her pilgrim's habit as a relique, to preserve to after-ages the memory
+of an adventure, which had really something more marvellous in it than
+many set down as miracles.
+
+And now having fully gratified his own curiosity in all he wanted to be
+informed of, he thought proper to case the impatience she was in to know
+the history of her birth, and on what occasion it had been so long
+concealed, which he did in these or the like words:
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXIV.
+
+_The history of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other circumstances very
+important to Louisa_.
+
+You know, said he, that I am descended of one of the most illustrious
+families in England, tho', by some imprudencies on the one side, and
+injustice on the other, my claim was set aside, and I deprived of that
+title which my ancestors for a long succession of years had enjoyed, so
+that the estate I am in possession of, was derived to me in right of my
+mother, who was an heiress. It is indeed sufficient to have given me a
+pretence to any lady I should have made choice on, and to provide for
+what children I might have had by her: but the pride of blood being not
+abated in me by being cut off from my birthright, inspired me with an
+unconquerable aversion to marriage, since I could not bequeath to my
+posterity that dignity I ought to have enjoyed myself:--I resolved
+therefore to live single, and that the misfortune of my family should
+dye with myself.
+
+In my younger years I went to travel, as well for improvement, as to
+alleviate that discontent which was occasioned by the sight of another
+in possession of what I thought was my due.--Having made the tour of
+Europe, I took France again in my way home:--the gallantry and good
+breeding of these people very much attached me to them; but what chiefly
+engaged my continuance here much longer than I had done in any other
+part, was an acquaintance I had made with a lady called Matilda: she was
+of a very good family in England, was sent to a monastry merely for the
+sake of well-grounding her in a religion, the free exercise of which is
+not allowed at home, and to seclude her from settling her affections on
+any other than the person she was destined to by the will of her
+parents, and to whom she had been contracted in her infancy:--she was
+extremely young, and beautiful as an angel; and the knowledge she was
+pre-engaged, could not hinder me from loving her, any more than the
+declarations I made in her hearing against marriage, could the grateful
+returns she was pleased to make me:--in fine, the mutual inclination we
+had for each other, as it rendered us deaf to all suggestions but that
+of gratifying it, so it also inspired us with ingenuity to surmount all
+the difficulties that were between our wishes and the end of them.--Tho'
+a pensioner in a monastry, and very closely observed, by the help of a
+confidant she frequently got out, and many nights we passed
+together;--till some business relating to my estate at length calling me
+away, we were obliged to part, which we could not do without testifying
+a great deal of concern on both sides:--mine was truly sincere at that
+time, and I have reason to believe her's was no less so; but absence
+easily wears out the impressions of youth: as I never expected to see
+her any more, I endeavoured not to preserve a remembrance which would
+only have given me disquiet, and, to confess the truth, soon forgot both
+the pleasure and the pain I had experienced in this, as well as some
+other little sallies of my unthinking youth.
+
+Many years passed over without my ever hearing any thing of her; and it
+was some months after I received your letter from Aix-la-Chappelle, that
+the post brought me one from Ireland: having no correspondence in that
+country, I was a little surprized, but much more when I opened it and
+found it contained these words:
+
+_To_ DORILAUS.
+
+SIR,
+
+
+"This comes to make a request, which I
+know not if the acquaintance we had
+together in the early part of both our lives,
+would be sufficient to apologize for the trouble
+you must take in complying with it:--permit
+me therefore to acquaint you, that I have long
+laboured under an indisposition which my physicians
+assure me is incurable, and under which
+I must inevitably sink in a short time; but
+whatever they say, I know it is impossible
+for me to leave the world without imparting
+to you a secret wholly improper to be entrusted
+in a letter, but is of the utmost importance
+to those concerned in it, of whom yourself
+is the principal:--be assured it regards
+your honour, your conscience, your justice, as
+well as the eternal peace of her who conjures
+you, with the utmost earnestness, to come immediately
+on the receipt of this to the castle of
+M----e, in the north of Ireland, where, if
+you arrive time enough, you will be surprized,
+tho' I flatter myself not disagreeably so, with
+the unravelling a most mysterious Event.
+
+_Yours, once known by the name of_ MATILDA,
+
+_now_
+
+M----E."
+
+
+I will not repeat to you, my dear Louisa, continued Dorilaus, the
+strange perplexity of ideas that run thro' my mind after having read
+this letter:--I was very far from guessing at the real motive of this
+invitation; which, however, as I once had a regard for that lady, I soon
+determined to obey; and having left the care of my house to a relation
+of mine by the mother's side, I went directly for Ireland; but when I
+came there, was a little embarrassed in my mind what excuse I should
+make to her husband for my visit.--Before I ventured to the castle, I
+made a thorough enquiry after the character of this young lady, and in
+what manner she lived with her lord. Never did I hear a person more
+universally spoke well of:--the poor adored her charity, affability, and
+condescending sweetness of disposition:--the rich admired her wit, her
+virtue, and good breeding:--her beauty, tho' allowed inferior to few of
+her sex, was the least qualification that seemed deserving praise:--to
+add to all this, they told me she was a pattern of conjugal affection,
+and the best of mothers to a numerous race of Children;--that her lord
+had all the value he ought to have for so amiable a wife, and that no
+wedded pair ever lived together in greater harmony; and it was with the
+utmost concern, whoever I spoke to on this affair concluded what they
+related of her with saying, that so excellent an example of all that was
+valuable in womankind would shortly be taken from them;--that she had
+long, with an unexampled patience, lingered under a severe illness which
+every day threatened dissolution.
+
+These accounts made me hesitate no farther:--I went boldly to the
+castle, asked to speak with the lord M----e, who received me with a
+politeness befitting his quality: I told him that my curiosity of seeing
+foreign countries had brought me to Ireland, and being in my tour thro'
+those parts, I took the liberty of calling at his seat, having formerly
+had the honour of being known to his lady when at her father's house,
+and whom I now heard, to my great concern, was indisposed, otherwise
+have been glad to pay my respects to her. The nobleman answered, with
+tears in his eyes, that she was indeed in a condition such as give no
+hope of her recovery, but that she sometimes saw company, tho' obliged
+to receive them in bed, having lost the use of her limbs, and would
+perhaps be glad of the visit of a person she had known so long.
+
+On this I told him my name, which he immediately sent in; and her woman
+not long after came from her to let me know she would admit me. My lord
+went in with me; and to countenance what I said, I accosted her with the
+freedom of a person who had been acquainted when children, spoke of her
+father as of a gentleman who had favoured me with his good-will, tho',
+in reality, I had never seen him in my life, but remembered well enough
+what she had mentioned to me concerning him, and some others of her
+family, to talk as if I had been intimate among them. I could perceive
+she was very well pleased with the method I had taken of introducing
+myself; and, to prevent any suspicion that I had any other business with
+her than to pay my compliments, made my visit very short that day, not
+doubting but she would of herself contrive some means of entertaining me
+without witnesses, as she easily found her lord had desired I would make
+the castle my home while I stayed in that part of the country.
+
+I was not deceived; the next morning having been told her lord was
+engaged with his steward, she sent for me, and making some pretence for
+getting rid of her woman, she plucked a paper from under her pillow, and
+putting it into my hand,--in that, said, you will find the secret I
+mentioned in my letter;--suspect not the veracity of it, I conjure you,
+nor love the unfortunate Horatio and Louisa less for their being mine.
+
+I cannot express the confusion I was in, continued Dorilaus, at her
+mentioning you and your brother, but I had no opportunity of asking any
+questions:--her woman that instant returned, after which I stayed but a
+short time, being impatient to examine the contents, which, as near as I
+can remember, were to this purpose:
+
+
+"You were scarce out of France before I
+discovered our amour had produced such
+consequences as, had my too fond passion given
+me leave to think of, I never should have hazarded:--I
+will not repeat the distraction I
+was in;--you may easily judge of it:--I
+communicated the misfortune to my nurse,
+who you know I told you went from England
+with me, and has often brought you messages
+from the convent:--the faithful creature did
+her utmost to console me for an evil which was
+without a remedy:--to complete my confusion,
+my father commanded me home; my lord
+M----e was returned from his travels:--we
+were both of an age to marry; and it
+was resolved, by our parents, no longer to
+defer the completion of an affair long before
+agreed upon.--I was ready to lay violent hands
+on myself, since there seemed no way to conceal
+my shame; but my good nurse having set
+all her wits to work for me, found out an expedient
+which served me, when I could think
+of nothing for myself.--She bid me be of
+comfort; that she thought being sent for home
+was the luckiest thing that could have happened,
+since nothing could be so bad as to have my
+pregnancy discovered in the convent, as it
+infallibly must have been had I stayed a very little
+time longer: she also assured me she would
+contrive it so, as to keep the thing a secret
+from all the world.--I found afterwards she
+did not deceive me by vain promises.--We
+left Paris, according to my father's order, and
+came by easy journeys, befitting my condition,
+to Calais, and embarked on board the packet for
+Dover; but then, instead of taking coach for London,
+hired a chariot, and went cross the country
+to a little village, where a kinswoman of my
+nurse's lived.--With these people I remained
+till Horatio and Louisa came into the world:--I
+could have had them nursed at that place, but
+I feared some discovery thro' the miscarriage of
+letters, which often happens, and which could
+not have been avoided being sent on such occasions;--so
+we contrived together that my
+good confident and adviser should carry them
+to your house, and commit the care of them
+to you, who, equal with myself, had a right to
+it:--she found means, by bribing a man that
+worked under your gardener, to convey them
+where I afterwards heard you found and received
+them as I could wish, and becoming the
+generosity of your nature.--I then took coach
+for London, pretending, at my arrival, that I
+had been delayed by sickness, and to excuse my
+nurse's absence, said she had caught the fever
+of me;--so no farther enquiry was made, and
+I soon after was married to a man whose worth
+is well deserving of a better wife, tho' I have
+endeavoured to attone for my unknown transgression
+by every act of duty in my power:--nurse
+stayed long enough in your part of the
+world to be able to bring me an account how
+the children were disposed of.--That I never
+gave you an account they were your own, was
+occasioned by two reasons, first, the danger of
+entrusting such a thing by the post, my nurse
+soon after dying; and secondly, because, as I
+was a wife, I thought it unbecoming of me to
+remind you of a passage I was willing to forget
+myself.--A long sickness has put other thoughts
+into my head, and inspired me with a tenderness
+for those unhappy babes, which the shame
+of being their mother hitherto deprived them
+of.--I hear, with pleasure, that you are not
+married, and are therefore at full liberty to
+make some provision for them, if they are yet
+living, that may alleviate the misfortune of
+their birth. Farewell; if I obtain this first and
+last request, I shall dye well satisfied."
+
+"_P.S._ Burn this paper, I conjure you, the moment
+you have read it; but lay the contents
+of it up in your heart never to be forgotten."
+
+
+I now no longer wondered, pursued Dorilaus, at that impulse I had to
+love you;--I found it the simpathy of nature, and adored the divine
+power.--After having well fixed in my mind all the particulars of this
+amazing secret, I performed her injunction, and committed it to the
+flames: I had opportunity enough to inform her in what manner Horatio
+had disposed of himself, and let her know you were gone with a lady on
+her travels: I concealed indeed the motive, fearing to give her any
+occasion of reproaching herself for having so long concealed what my
+ignorance of might have involved us all in guilt and ruin.
+
+I stayed some few days at the castle, and then took my leave: she said
+many tender things at parting concerning you, and seemed well satisfied
+with the assurances I gave her of making the same provision for you, as
+I must have done had the ceremony of the church obliged me to it. This
+seemed indeed the only thing for which she lived, and, I was informed,
+died in a few days after.
+
+At my return to England I renewed my endeavours to discover where you
+were, but could hear nothing since you wrote from Aix-la-Chappelle, and
+was equally troubled that I had received no letters from your
+brother.--I doubted not but he had fallen in the battle, and mourned him
+as lost;--till an old servant perceiving the melancholy I was in,
+acquainted me that several letters had been left at my house by the post
+during my absence, but that the kinsman I had left to take care of my
+affairs had secreted them, jealous, no doubt, of the fondness I have
+expressed for him.--This so enraged me, when on examination I had too
+much reason to be assured of this treachery, that I turned my whole
+estate into ready money, and resolved to quit England for ever, and pass
+my life here, this being a country I always loved, and had many reasons
+to dislike my own.
+
+Here I soon heard news of my Horatio, and such as filled me with a
+pleasure, which wanted nothing of being complete but the presence of my
+dear Louisa to partake of it.
+
+Dorilaus then went on, and acquainted her with the particulars of
+Horatio's story, as he had learned it from the baron de Palfoy, with
+whom he now was very intimate; but as the reader is sufficiently
+informed of those transactions, it would be needless to repeat them; so
+I shall only say that Dorilaus arrived in France in a short time after
+Horatio had left it to enter into the service of the king of Sweden, and
+had wrote that letter, inserted in the eighteenth chapter, in order to
+engage that young warrior to return, some little time before his meeting
+with Louisa.
+
+Nothing now was wanting to the contentment of this tender father but the
+presence of Horatio, which he was every day expecting, when, instead of
+himself, those letters from him arrived which contained his resolution
+of remaining with Charles XII. till the conquests he was in pursuit of
+should be accomplished.
+
+This was some matter of affliction to Dorilaus, tho' in his heart he
+could not but approve those principles of honour which detained
+him.--Neither the baron de Palfoy, nor Charlotta herself, could say he
+could well have acted otherwise, and used their utmost endeavours to
+comfort a father in his anxieties for the safety of so valuable a son.
+
+Louisa was also very much troubled at being disappointed in her hope of
+embracing a brother, whom she had ever dearly loved, and was now more
+precious to her than ever, by the proofs she had heard he had given of
+his courage and his virtue; but she had another secret and more poignant
+grief that preyed upon her soul, and could scarce receive any addition
+from ought beside:--she had been now near two months in Paris, yet could
+hear nothing of monsieur du Plessis, but that, by the death of his
+father, a large estate had devolved upon him, which he had never come to
+claim, or had been at Paris for about eighteen months, so that she had
+all the reason in the world to believe he was no more. This threw her
+into a melancholy, which was so much the more severe as she endeavoured
+to conceal it:--she made use of all her efforts to support the loss of a
+person she so much loved, and who proved himself so deserving of that
+love:--she represented to herself that being relieved from all the
+snares and miseries of an indigent life, raised from an obscurity which
+had given her many bitter pangs, to a station equal to her wishes, and
+under the care of the most indulgent and best of fathers, she ought not
+to repine, but bless the bounty of heaven, who had bestowed on her so
+many blessings, and with-held only one she could have asked.--These, I
+say, were the dictates of reason and religion; but the tender passion
+was not always to be silenced by them, and whenever she was alone, the
+tears, in spight of herself, would flow, and she, without even knowing
+she did so, cry out, Oh du Plessis, wherefore do I live since thou
+art dead!
+
+Among the many acquaintance she soon contracted at Paris, there was none
+she so much esteemed, both on the account of her own merit, and the
+regard she had for Horatio, as mademoiselle de Palfoy. In this young
+lady's society did she find more charms for her grief than in that of
+any other; and the other truly loving her, not only because she found
+nothing more worthy of being loved, but because she was the sister of
+Horatio, they were very seldom asunder.
+
+Louisa was one day at the baron's, enjoying that satisfaction which the
+conversation of his beautiful daughter never failed to afford, when word
+was brought that madam, the countess d'Espargnes, was come to visit
+her.--Mademoiselle Charlotta ran to receive her with a great deal of
+joy, she being a lady she very much regarded, and who she had not seen
+of a long time.
+
+She immediately returned, leading a lady in deep mourning, who seemed
+not to be above five-and-twenty, was extremely handsome, and had beside
+something in her air that attached Louisa at first sight. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta presented her to the countess, saying at the same time, see,
+madam, the only rival you have in my esteem.
+
+You do well to give me one, replied the countess, who looks as if she
+would make me love her as well as you, and so I should be even with you.
+With these words she opened her arms to embrace Louisa, who returned the
+compliment with equal politeness.
+
+When they were seated, mademoiselle Charlotta began to express the
+pleasure she had in seeing her in Paris; on which the countess told her,
+that the affair she came upon was so disagreeable, that nothing but the
+happiness of enjoying her company, while she stayed, could attone for
+it. You know, my dear, continued madam d'Espargnes, I was always an
+enemy to any thing that had the face of business, yet am I now, against
+my will, involved in it by as odd an adventure as perhaps you
+ever heard.
+
+Charlotta testifying some desire to be informed of what nature, the
+other immediately satisfied her curiosity in this manner:
+
+You know, said she, that on the late death of my father, his estate
+devolved on my brother, an officer in those troops in Italy commanded by
+the prince of Conti:--some wounds, which were looked upon as extremely
+dangerous, obliged him, when the campaign was over, to continue in his
+winter quarters;--on which he sent to monsieur the count to take
+possession in his name; this was done; but an intricate affair relating
+to certain sums lodged in a person's hand, and to be brought before the
+parliament of Paris, could not be decided without the presence either of
+him or myself who had been witness of the transaction.--I was extremely
+loth to take so long a journey, being then in very ill health; and
+hearing he was recovered, delayed it, as we then expected him in
+person:--I sent a special messenger, however, in order to hasten his
+return;--but instead of complying with my desires, I received a letter
+from him, acquainting me that a business of more moment to him than any
+thing in my power to guess at, required his presence in another place,
+and insisted, by all the tenderness which had ever been between us, that
+I would take on myself the management of this affair:--to enable me the
+better to do it, he sent me a deed of trust to act as I should find it
+most expedient.
+
+As he did not let me into the secret of what motives detained him at so
+critical a juncture, I was at first very much surprized; but on asking
+some questions of the messenger I had sent to him, I soon discovered
+what it was. He told me that on his arrival, he found my brother had
+left his quarters and was gone to Bolognia, on which he followed and
+overtook him there;--that he appeared in the utmost discontent, and was
+just preparing to proceed to Leghorn, but did not mention to him any
+more than he did in his letter to me, what inducement he had to this
+journey:--his servant, however, told him privately, that the mystery was
+this:--That being passionately in love with a young English lady, whom
+he had placed in a monastery at Bolognia, and expected to find there at
+his return, she had in his absence departed, without having acquainted
+him with her design; and that supposing she was gone for England, and
+unable to live without her, his intention was to take shipping for that
+country, and make use of his utmost efforts to find her out.
+
+I must confess, pursued the beautiful countess, this piece of quixotism
+very much veved me:--I thought his friends in France deserved more from
+him than to be neglected for one who fled from him, and who, as the man
+said, he knew not whether he should be able ever to see again. I
+resolved, however, to comply with his desires, and came immediately to
+Paris; but heaven has shewed him how little it approves his giving me
+this unnecessary trouble, for this morning I received a letter from him,
+that meeting with robbers in his way, they had taken from him all his
+money and bills of exchange, besides wounding him in several places, so
+that he cannot proceed on his journey till his hurts, which it seems are
+not dangerous, are cured, and he has fresh remittances from hence.
+
+With what emotions the heart of Louisa was agitated during the latter
+part of this little narrative, a sensible reader may easily conceive:
+from the first mention of Bolognia, where there was no other English
+pensioner than herself, she knew it must be no other than her dear du
+Plessis who was in search for her abroad, while she was vainly hoping to
+find him at home:--every circumstance rendered this belief more certain;
+and surprize and joy worked so strongly in her, that fearing the effects
+would be visible, she rose up and withdrew to a window. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who knew she could not be capable of such an act of
+unpoliteness, without being compelled to it, asked if she were not
+well:--on which Louisa entreated pardon, but owned a sudden faintness
+had come over her spirits, so that she was obliged to be rude in order
+to prevent being troublesome.
+
+As mademoiselle Charlotta knew nothing of her story, she had no farther
+thought about it than of some little qualm, which frequently happens
+when young ladies are too closely laced, and she seeming perfectly
+recovered from, the conversation was renewed on the same subject it had
+turned upon before this interruption; and the name of monsieur du
+Plessis being often mentioned, confirmed Louisa, if before she could
+have had the least remains of doubt, that it was her lover who,
+neglectful of his own affairs, and the remonstrances of his expecting
+friends, was about to range in search of one who, he imagined, was
+ungrateful both to his love and friendship.
+
+After having listened, with the utmost attention, to all the countess
+said of him, and other matters becoming the topic of discourse, she took
+her leave, in order to reflect alone what she ought to do in
+this affair.
+
+She debated not long within herself before she resolved to write to him,
+and prevent the unprofitable journey he was about to take; and having
+heard, by madam d' Espargnes, the name of the village where he was
+obliged to wait, both for the recovery of his wounds and for remittances
+for his expences, she wrote to him in the following terms:
+
+_To monsieur_ DU PLESSIS.
+
+
+"I should ill return the proofs I have received
+of your generous disinterested friendship,
+to delay one moment that I had it in my power,
+in endeavouring to convince you that it was a
+quite contrary motive than ingratitude to you,
+that carried me from Bolognia:--but the story
+is too long for the compass of a letter; when
+you know it, you will, perhaps, own this action,
+whatever you may now think of it, merits
+more, than any thing I could have done, your
+approbation:--this seeming riddle will be easily
+expounded, if, on the recovery of your
+wounds, you repair immediately to Paris, where
+you will find
+
+_Your much obliged_,
+
+LOUISA."
+
+
+Having finished this little billet, a scruple rose in her head, that
+being now under the care of a father, she ought not to do any thing of
+this nature without his permission:--she had already told him how
+greatly she had been indebted to du Plessis for his honourable passion,
+but had not mentioned the least tittle of the tender impressions it had
+made on her; and she so lately knew him to be her father, that she was
+ashamed to make him the confidant of an affair of this nature, but then,
+when she considered the quality of du Plessis, which she was now
+confirmed of, and the sense Dorilaus testified he had of his behaviour
+to her while he believed her so infinitely his inferior, made her
+resolve to drain her modesty so far as to inform him all.
+
+She began by relating her accidental meeting with madam, the countess
+d'Espargnes and the conversation that passed at mademoiselle de
+Palfoy's, and then, tho' not without immoderate blushes, shewed him what
+she had wrote, and beseeched him to let her know whether it would be
+consistent with a virgin's modesty, and also agreeable to his pleasure,
+that she gave this demonstration of her gratitude for the favours she
+had received from this young gentleman.
+
+Dorilaus was charmed with this proof of her duty and respect, and told
+her, that he was so far from disapproving what she had wrote, that had
+she omitted it, or said less than she did, he should have looked upon
+her as unworthy of so perfect a passion as that which monsieur du
+Plessis on all occasions, testified for her:--that, in his opinion, she
+owed him more than she could ever pay; and that it should be his
+endeavour to shew he had not placed his affections on the daughter of
+one who knew not how to set a just value on merit such as his:--he made
+her also add a postscript to the letter, to give a direction in what
+part of Paris he might find her on his arrival; but Louisa would by no
+means give the least hint of the alteration in her circumstances, not
+that she wanted any farther proofs of his sincerity, but that she
+reserved the pleasure of so agreeable a surprize to their meeting. This
+letter was dispatched immediately, to the end he might receive it, at
+least, as soon as that from his sister with the expected remittances.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXV.
+
+_Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: his reception from Dorilaus and
+Louisa: the marriage of these lovers agreed upon_.
+
+The innocent pleasure Louisa felt in picturing to herself the extacy
+which du Plessis would be in at the receipt of her letter, was not a
+flattering idea:--to know she was in Paris, where, in all probability,
+she had come to seek him, and to have the intelligence of it from
+herself, had all the effect on him that the most raptured fancy
+can invent.
+
+His orders to madam d' Espargnes being punctually complied with, his
+bills of exchange also came soon after to hand; and the little hurts he
+had received from the robbers, as well as those of his mind, being
+perfectly healed, he set out with a lover's expedition, and arrived in
+Paris to the pleasing surprize of a sister who tenderly loved him, and
+expected not this satisfaction of a long time.
+
+He took but one night's repose before he enquired concerning Dorilaus,
+and was told that he was a person of quality in England; but, on some
+disgust he had received in his native country, was come to settle in
+France. As Louisa was extremely admired, they told him also that he had
+a very beautiful daughter, of whom he was extremely fond. This last
+information gave not a little ease to the mind of him who heard it, and
+dissipated those apprehensions which the high character they gave of
+Dorilaus had, in spite of himself, excited in him: he now imagined that
+as they were English, his Louisa might possibly have been acquainted
+with the daughter of this gentleman in their own country, and meeting
+her at Paris, might have put herself under her protection.
+
+Full of those impatiencies which are inseparable from a sincere passion,
+he borrowed his sister's chariot, and went to the Fauxbourg St.
+Germains; and being told one of the best houses in the place was that of
+Dorilaus, he asked for mademoiselle Louisa, on which he was desired to
+alight, and shewed into a handsome parlour while a servant went in to
+inform her: after this, he was ushered up stairs into a room, the
+furniture of which shewed the elegance of the owner's taste; but
+accustomed to every thing that was great and magnificent, the gilded
+scenes, the rich tapestry, the pictures, had no effect on him, till
+casting his eyes on one that hung over the chimney, he found the exact
+resemblance of the dear object never absent from his heart.--It was
+indeed the picture of Louisa, which her father, soon after her arrival,
+had caused to be drawn by one of the best painters at that time in
+Paris. This sight gave him a double pleasure, because it, in some
+measure, anticipated that of the original, and also convinced him that
+she was not indifferent to the person she was with.
+
+He was fixed in contemplation on this delightful copy, when the original
+appeared in all the advantages that jewels and rich dress could give
+her.--Tho' he loved her only for herself, and nothing could add to the
+sincere respect his heart had always paid her, yet to see her so
+different from what he expected, filled him with a surprize and a kind
+of enforced awe, which hindered him from giving that loose to his
+transports, which, after so long an absence, might have been very
+excusable;--and he could only say--my dear adorable Louisa, am I so
+blessed to see you once more!--She met his embrace half way, and
+replied, monsieur du Plessis, heaven has given me all I had to wish in
+restoring to me so faithful a friend;--but come, continued she, permit
+me to lead you to a father, who longs to embrace the protector of his
+daughter's innocence. Your father, madam! cried he; yes, answered she;
+in seeking a lover at Paris I found a father; Dorilaus is my father:--I
+have acquainted him with all the particulars of our story, and, I
+believe, the sincere affection I have for you will not be less pleasing
+for receiving his sanction to it.
+
+With these words she took his hand and led him, all astonishment, into
+an inner room where Dorilaus was sitting, who rose to meet him with the
+greatest politeness, and which shewed that to be master of, it was not
+necessary to be born in France; and on Louisa's acquainting him with the
+name of the person she presented, embraced him with the tenderness of a
+father, and made him such obliging and affectionate compliments, as
+confirmed to the transported du Plessis the character had been given
+of him.
+
+After the utmost testimonies of respect on both side, Dorilaus told his
+daughter she ought to make her excuses to monsieur for having eloped
+from the monastry where he had been so good to place her, which, said
+he, I think you can do in no better a manner than by telling the truth,
+and as I am already sufficiently acquainted with the whole, will leave
+you to relate it, while I dispatch a little business that at present
+calls me hence. He went out of the room in speaking this, and Louisa had
+a more full opportunity of informing her lover of all she had suffered
+since their parting, till this happy change in her fortune, than she
+could have had in the presence of her father, tho' no stranger to her
+most inmost thoughts on this occasion.
+
+The pleasing story of her pilgrimage rehearsed, how did the charmed du
+Plessis pity and applaud, by turns, her sufferings and fortitude!--How
+exclaim against the treachery of the abbess, and those of the nuns who
+were in confederacy with her! But his curiosity satisfied in this point,
+another rose instantly in his mind, that being the daughter of such a
+person as Dorilaus, wherefore she had made so great a secret of it, and
+what reason had occasioned her being on the terms she was with Melanthe.
+He no sooner expressed his wonder on these heads, than, having before
+her father's permission to do so, she resolved to leave him in no
+suspence on any score relating to her affairs.
+
+Tho', said she blushing, I cannot reveal the history of my birth without
+laying open the errors of those to whom I owe my being, yet I shall not
+think the sacrifice too great to recompence the obligations you have
+laid upon me; and then proceeded to acquaint him with every thing
+relating to her parents, as well as to herself, from the first moment
+she was found in the garden of Dorilaus.
+
+It is not to be doubted but that he listened to the story with the
+utmost attention, in which he found such matters of admiration, that he
+could not forbear frequently interrupting her, by crying, Oh heaven! oh
+providence! how mysterious are thy ways!--How, in thy disposal of
+things, dost thou force us to acknowledge thy divine power and wisdom!
+
+He was also extremely pleased to find she was the sister of Horatio,
+whom he had often been in company with both at the baron de la Valeire's
+and at St. Germains, and had admired for the many extraordinary
+qualities he discovered in him: this led them into a conversation
+concerning that young gentleman, and the misfortunes which some late
+news-paper gave an account were beginning to fall upon the king of
+Sweden; after that, renewing the subject of their mutual affection, and
+du Plessis running over the particulars of their acquaintance in Italy,
+Louisa asked whether the count de Bellfleur had ever testified any
+remorse for the injury he would have offered her, and in what manner
+they had lived together in the army? To which monsieur du Plessis
+replied, that the authority of the prince had prevented him from
+attempting any open acts of violence; but that by his manner of
+behaviour it was easy to see he had not forgiven the disappointment; and
+he verily believed wanted only a convenient opportunity to revenge it:
+but, continued he, whatever his designs were, heaven put a stop to the
+execution of them; for, in the first skirmish that happened between us
+and the forces of prince Eugene, this once gay, gallant courtier, had
+his head taken off by a cannon ball.
+
+The gentle Louisa could not forbear expressing some concern for the
+sudden fate of this bad man, greatly as she had been affronted by him;
+but when she reflected that the same accident might have befallen her
+dear du Plessis, she was all dissolved in tears.
+
+They were in this tender communication when Dorilaus returned leading
+the countess d'Espargnes in one hand, and mademoiselle de Palfoy in the
+other. Monsieur du Plessis was surprized to meet his sister in a place
+where he knew not she was acquainted, and she no less to find him there.
+The occasion of it was this:
+
+Dorilaus, when he left the lovers together, went directly to the baron
+de Palfoy's, and related to him and to mademoiselle the whole history of
+monsieur du Plessis and Louisa; on which they contriv'd to make a
+pleasant scene, by engaging the countess d'Espargnes to go with them to
+Dorilaus's, without letting her know on what account.--The event
+answered their wishes; madam d' Espargnes rallied her brother on finding
+him alone with so beautiful a young lady; and mademoiselle Charlotta,
+for his inconstancy to his mistress at Bolognia: but when the riddle was
+solved, and the countess came to know that the lady left in the
+monastery and Louisa were the same, she no longer condemned an
+attachment which before had given her so much pain.
+
+Mademoiselle Charlotta chid her for the reserve she had maintained to
+her in this affair, especially, said she, as you were obliged to the
+conversation you had with madam d'Espargnes in my apartment, that you
+received any intelligence of monsieur du Plessis, or knew how to direct
+your commands to him to return.
+
+That, madam, is an obligation lies wholly on me, said monsieur du
+Plessis; and I believe I shall find it very difficult to requite it, any
+more than I shall to deserve my sister's pardon, for so industriously
+endeavouring to conceal from her the secret of my passion and
+its object.
+
+Louisa told the ladies that she now hoped they would excuse the disorder
+she had been in at the countess's discourse, since they knew the
+motive:--a good deal of pleasantry passed between this agreeable
+company; and as they were in the midst of it, the baron de Palfoy, who
+had been hindered from accompanying Dorilaus, when he conducted the
+ladies, now joined them; and tho' he was considerably older than any
+there, was no less entertaining and good-humoured than the youngest.
+
+Dorilaus had privately ordered a very magnificent collation, which being
+served up, Louisa did the honours of the table with so good a grace,
+that madam d' Espargnes was charmed with her, and took an opportunity of
+asking Dorilaus when she might hope the happiness of calling so amiable
+a lady by the name of sister. Du Plessis thanked her for the interest
+she took in his affairs; and the baron de Palfoy added, that as the
+lovers wanted no farther proofs how worthy they were of each other, he
+would join in solliciting for a completion of their happiness. To which
+Dorilaus replied, that he was too well satisfied with his daughter's
+conduct, not to leave her entirely at her own disposal; and as to what
+related to fortune and settlement, he should be ready to enter into such
+articles as, he believed, monsieur du Plessis would have no reason to
+complain of.
+
+The passionate lover at these words cried out, that it was Louisa's self
+alone he was ambitious of possessing; nor had either that lady or her
+father any room to look on what he said as a mere compliment, because
+his love had long since waved all the seeming disproportion
+between them.
+
+In fine, not only at this time, but every day, almost every hour, was
+Louisa, as it now depended wholly on herself, importuned by her lover
+and the countess d'Espargnes to render his happiness complete; but she
+still delayed it, desiring to hear some news of Horatio, the baron de
+Palfoy having settled every thing with Dorilaus concerning his marriage
+with mademoiselle Charlotta, she was willing, she said, that as they
+were born on the same day, their nuptials should be also celebrated at
+the same time.
+
+Monsieur du Plessis was obliged to content himself with this since he
+could obtain no more; and for a time every thing passed smoothly and
+agreeably on; but news after news continually arriving of the king of
+Sweden's ill success in Ukrania, rendered all the noble friends of
+Horatio extremely dissatisfied:--the public accounts were too deficient
+for their information of any particular officer, and as there were very
+few French in the Swedish army, they could hope for no intelligence of
+him but from himself; which, as he omitted giving, they at last
+concluded he was either killed or taken prisoner; which last misfortune
+they looked upon as equal with the former:--the Russian barbarity, and
+their manner of treating those whom the chance of war threw into their
+hands, was no secret thro' all Europe; and whichever of these accidents
+had happened, must be very grievous to a gentleman of Dorilaus's
+disposition, who, when unknowing he was his son, loved him with more
+tenderness than many fathers do their offspring, but now convinced not
+only that he was so, but also that he was possessed of such amiable
+qualities as might do honour to the most illustrious race, had fixed an
+idea in his mind of such a lasting happiness in having him near him,
+that the thoughts of being deprived of him for ever threw him into a
+melancholy, which not all the friends he had acquired in Paris, not all
+the gaieties of that place, nor the sweet society of the engaging and
+dutiful Louisa, had the power to console. So deep was his affliction,
+that monsieur du Plessis, amorous and impatient as he was, had not
+courage to urge a grant of his own happiness, while those who were to
+bestow it, were incapable of sharing any part of it.
+
+Soon after there arrived a thunder-clap indeed:--certain intelligence
+that the once victorious Charles was totally overthrown, his whole army
+either cut to pieces or taken prisoners, and himself a fugitive in the
+grand seignior's dominions.--Dorilaus, now not doubting but the worst he
+feared had come to pass, shut himself from all company, and refused the
+unavailing comfort of those who came to offer it.--The fair eyes of
+Louisa were continually drowned in tears, and the generous du Plessis
+sympathized in all her griefs. But what became of mademoiselle Charlotta
+de Palfoy! her tender soul, so long accustomed to love Horatio, had not
+courage to support the shock of losing him;--losing him at a time when
+she thought herself secure of being united to him for ever;--when his
+discovered birth had rendered her father's wishes conformable to her
+own, and there wanted nothing but his presence to render both their
+families completely blessed:--all that excess of love which modesty had
+hitherto restrained her from giving any public marks of, now shewed
+itself in the violence of her grief and her despair.--She made no secret
+of her softest inclinations, and gave a loose to all the impatience of a
+ruined love. Even the haughty baron was melted into tears of compassion,
+and so far from condemning, that, he attempted all in his power to
+alleviate her sorrows.
+
+
+
+CHAP. XXVI.
+
+_The Catastrophe of the whole_.
+
+Poor Horatio, released, as I have already said, from his worse than
+Turkish bondage, had now, with the companions of his misfortunes, left a
+country where they had suffered so much and had so little to hope, that
+their enlargement seemed even to themselves a miracle.--As they parted,
+miserable and forlorn, thro' those provinces where, about a year before,
+they had marched with so much pomp and force, as, together with the king
+of Sweden's name, inspired admiration and terror over all those parts of
+the world, it filled them with the most poignant anguish, and drew tears
+from those among them least sensible of any tender emotions.
+
+All this disconsolate company, except Horatio, being Swedes', they made
+the best of their way, some to Stockholm, and others to Straelsund.--Now
+left alone, a long journey before him, and altogether uncertain what
+reception he should find at Paris, either from Dorilaus or mademoiselle
+Charlotta, his condition was extremely pityable, and he stood in need of
+more fortitude than could be expected from his years, to enable him to
+go thro' it.
+
+The nearer he approached Paris, the greater was his shock at the
+necessity of appearing there in the despicable figure he now made; but
+his courage still got the better, and surmounted all difficulties. If
+Dorilaus thinks my disobedience to his commands a crime too great to
+merit his forgiveness, would he say to himself, or Charlotta disdains,
+in his misfortunes, the faithful Horatio, I have no more to do than to
+return to Poland and seek an honourable death in the service of
+Stanislaus.
+
+He made his entrance into that opulent city through the most bye-ways he
+could, and concealed himself till towards night in a little cabaret,
+where having soon been informed where Dorilaus lived, he went when it
+was quite dark to his house, though how divided between hope and fear it
+is easy to imagine. He knocked at the gate, which being opened by the
+porter, and he desiring to speak with his master, was answered with many
+impertinent questions, as--who he came from, what his business was, and
+such like interrogatories which the sawciness of servants generally put
+to persons such as this fellow took Horatio to be by his appearance. But
+he had no sooner desired he would tell Dorilaus that he came from
+Russia, and brought intelligence of Horatio, than his tone of voice and
+behaviour was quite changed.--Our traveller was now carried into a
+parlour and entreated to sit down, and the late surly porter called
+hastily for one of the servants, bidding him, with the utmost joy, run
+in and inform his master that here was a person come from Russia that
+could give him news of colonel Horatio.
+
+This a little raised the lately depressed spirits of Horatio, as it
+assured him his name was not unknown in that family, nor had been
+mentioned with indifference.
+
+He attended but a very little time before he was shewed up into
+Dorilaus's apartment, who was just opening his mouth to enquire if
+Horatio were yet living, and in what condition, when he saw it was
+himself. Surprize and joy rendered him incapable either of speaking to
+him, or hearing the apologies he was beginning to make for having
+disobeyed his commands:--but he fell upon his neck and gave him an
+embrace, which dissipated all Horatio's fears, and left him no room to
+doubt if his peace was made.
+
+No words were exchanged between them for a considerable time, but--oh my
+dear son, my ever loved Horatio, on the one side, my more than father,
+patron, on the other:--at length the tumultuous rapture of so unexpected
+a meeting and reception, giving way to a more peaceful calm,--Dorilaus
+made Horatio relate all the particulars had happened to him; and when he
+had ended, now, said he, I will reward the sincerity I easily perceive
+you have made use of in this narrative, by acquainting you, in my turn,
+with secrets you are far from having any notion of, and which, I
+believe, will compensate for all your sufferings, and make you own,
+that while you seemed to groan under the utmost severities of fortune,
+she was preparing for you all the blessings in her power to give, and
+even more than your ambition aimed at. But I have first a message to
+dispatch, continued he; at my return you shall know all.
+
+With these words he went out of the room, but came back in a moment,
+and, after renewing his embraces to Horatio, revealed to him the whole
+secret of his birth, with all had happened to Louisa till the time of
+their happy meeting in Paris.
+
+With what pleasing wonder the soul of Horatio was filled at this
+discovery, is much more easy to conceive than describe, so I shall leave
+it to the reader's imagination to guess what it was he felt and spoke on
+so extraordinary an occasion. While he was pouring out the transports it
+occasioned in the most grateful thanks to heaven, and his new found
+father, Louisa entered, Dorilaus having sent to the baron de Palfoy's,
+where he knew she was, to let her know a messenger from Russia was
+arrived with news of her brother:--they instantly knew each other,
+though it was upwards of four years since they were separated, and in
+that time the stature of both considerably increased:--nothing could
+exceed the joy of these amiable twins:--never was felicity more perfect,
+which yet received addition on Horatio's part, when Louisa told him,
+that it was as much as Charlotta could do to restrain herself from
+coming with her to hear what account the supposed messenger had brought.
+
+Dorilaus on this immediately sent to let her know his son was well, and
+expected in Paris the next day, for he would not suffer him to appear
+before her, or the baron, till a habit was made for him more agreeable
+to his condition than that he arrived in. It is certain that the
+impatience of a lover would have made Horatio gladly wave this ceremony,
+but he would not a second time dispute the commands of such a father.
+
+But wherefore should I delay the attention of my reader, who, I doubt
+not, but easily perceives by this time how things will end: so I shall
+only say that the meeting of Horatio and Charlotta was such, as might be
+expected from so arduous and constant an affection: that every thing
+having been settled between the two fathers at the time they sent their
+joint mandates to call him home, there now remained nothing but to
+celebrate the long desired nuptials, which was deferred no longer than
+was requisite for preparations to render the ceremony magnificent.
+
+The generous du Plessis and his beloved Louisa were also united the same
+day; and it would be hard to say which of these weddings afforded most
+satisfaction to the friends on both sides, or were attended with the
+most happy consequences to the persons concerned in them.
+
+By these examples we may learn, that to sustain with fortitude and
+patience whatever ills we are preordained to suffer, entitles us to
+relief, while by impatient struggling we should but augment the score,
+and provoke fate to shew us the vanity of all attempts to frustrate
+its decrees.
+
+_FINIS_.
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***
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+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***</div>
+
+<h2>THE</h2>
+<h2><i>FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS</i>:</h2>
+<h2>BEING THE</h2>
+<h2>GENUINE HISTORY</h2>
+<h2>OF</h2>
+<h2><i>Colonel</i> M——RS, <i>and his Sister,</i><br/>
+<i>Madam</i> DU P——Y, <i>the Issue of the<br/>
+Hon</i>. CH——ES M——RS, <i>Son of the<br/>
+late Duke of</i>&nbsp; R—— L——D</h2>
+<h3>CONTAINING</h3>
+<h3>Many wonderful ACCIDENTS that befel<br/>
+them in their TRAVELS, and interspersed with<br/>
+the CHARACTERS and ADVENTURES of<br/>
+SEVERAL PERSONS of <i>Condition</i>, in the<br/>
+most polite Courts of <i>Europe</i>.</h3>
+<p><i>The Whole calculated for the Entertainment and Improvement of the
+Youth of both Sexes</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>LONDON</i>:</p>
+<p>M,DCC,XLIV.</p>
+<p><br/>
+<br/>
+</p>
+<h3>THE</h3>
+<h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+<p><i>The many Fictions which have been lately imposed upon the World,
+under the specious Titles of</i> Secret Histories, Memoirs,
+&amp;c. &amp;c. <i>have given but too much room to question the Veracity
+of every Thing that has the least Tendency that way: We therefore think it
+highly necessary to assure the Reader, that he will find nothing in the
+following Sheets, but what has been collected from</i> Original Letters,
+Private Memorandums, <i>and the</i> Accounts <i>we have been favoured with
+from the Mouths of Persons too deeply concerned in many of the</i> chief
+Transactions <i>not to be perfectly acquainted with the Truth, and of too
+much Honour and Integrity to put any false Colours upon it</i>.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Adventures are not so long passed as to be wholly forgotten by
+many</i> Living Witnesses, <i>nor yet so recent as to give any Reason to
+suspect us of Flattery in the Relation given of them, the Motive of their
+Publication being only to</i> encourage Virtue <i>in both Sexes, by
+showing the Amiableness of it in</i> real Characters. <i>And if it be true
+(as certainly it is) that</i> Example has more Efficacy than Precept,
+<i>we may be bold to say there are few fairer, or more worthy
+Imitation.—The Sons and Daughters of the greatest Families may give
+additional Lustre to their Nobility, by forming themselves by the Model
+here presented to them; and those of lower Extraction, attain Qualities
+to attone for what they want in Birth:—So that we flatter ourselves this
+Undertaking will not fail of receiving the Approbation of all who wish
+well to a Reformation of Manners, and more especially those who have Youth
+under their Care.—As for such who may take it up merely as an Amusement,
+it is possible they will find something, which, by interesting their
+Affections, may make them better without designing to be so.—Either way
+will fully recompense the Pains taken in the compiling by<br/><br/>
+The</i> EDITORS.</p>
+<h3>THE</h3>
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+<p><br/>
+</p>
+<p>CHAP. I.</p>
+<p><i>Contains the Manner in which a Gentleman found two Children: His
+Benevolence towards them, and what kind of Affection he bore to them as
+they grew up; with the Departure of one of them to the Army</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. II.</p>
+<p><i>Relates the Offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the Manner of her
+receiving them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. III.</p>
+<p><i>Dorilaus continues his Importunities, with some unexpected
+Consequences that attended them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. IV.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa becomes acquainted with a Lady of Quality, Part of whose
+Adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. V.</p>
+<p><i>Horatio's Reception by the Officers of the Army: His Behaviour in
+the Battle: His being taken Prisoner by the French: His Treatment among
+them, and many other Particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VI.</p>
+<p><i>Describes the Masquerade at the Dutchess of Maine's: The Characters
+and Intrigues of several Persons of Quality who were there: The odd
+Behaviour of a Lady in regard to Horatio; and Charlotta's Sentiments
+upon it</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VII.</p>
+<p><i>An Explanation of the foregoing Adventure, with a Continuation of
+the Intrigues of some French Ladies, and the Policy of Mademoiselle
+Coigney in regard of her Brother</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. VIII.</p>
+<p><i>The parting of Horatio and Mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. IX.</p>
+<p><i>A second Separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+Occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP X.</p>
+<p><i>The Reasons that induced Horatio to leave France: with the Chevalier
+St. George's Behaviour on knowing his Resolution. He receives an
+unexpected Favour from the Baron de Palfoy</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP XI.</p>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds Means to see Mademoiselle
+Charlotta, and afterwards pursues his Journey to Poland</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XII.</p>
+<p><i>Continuation of the Adventures of Louisa: Her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some Accidents that there befel them</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XIII.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+Behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable Passion for her: Her
+Sentiments and Way of acting on this Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XIV.</p>
+<p><i>The base Designs of the Count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy
+Change in Louisa's Way of Life: The generous Behaviour of Monsieur du
+Plessis on that Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XV.</p>
+<p><i>Louisa is in Danger of being ravished by the Count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by Monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+Particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XVI</p>
+<p><i>The Innkeeper's Scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: Her
+Behaviour on the Discovery of the Count's Falshood. Louisa changes her
+Resolution, and goes to Bolognia.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XVII.</p>
+
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Warsaw; sees the Coronation of Stanislaus and his
+Queen: His Reception from the King of Sweden: His Promotion: Follows that
+Prince in all his Conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The Story
+of Count Patkull and Madame de Eusilden.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XVIII</p>
+
+<p><i>King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the Troubles In Poland:
+Charles XII. gives Laws to the Empire: A Courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives Letters, which give him great Surprize.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAP. XIX.</p>
+
+<p><i>The King of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with
+an Instance of Russian Brutality, drives the Czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken Prisoner by
+the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where he suffers the extremest
+Miseries.</i></p>
+
+<p>CHAP. XX.</p>
+
+<p><i>The Treachery of a Russian Lady to her Friend: Her Passion for
+Horatio: The Method he took to avoid making any Return, and some other
+entertaining Occurrences.</i></p>
+<p>CHAP. XXI.</p>
+<p><i>The Prisoners Expectations raised: A terrible Disappointment: Some
+of the chief carried to Prince Menzikoff's Palace: Their Usage there:
+Horatio set at Liberty, and the Occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXII.</p>
+<p><i>What befel Louisa in the Monastery: The Stratagem she put in
+Practice to get out of it: Her Travels cross Italy, and Arrival at
+Paris</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXIII.</p>
+<p><i>Shews by what Means Louisa came to the Knowledge of her Parents,
+with other Occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXIV.</p>
+<p><i>The History of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other Circumstances very
+important to Louisa</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXV.</p>
+<p><i>Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: His Reception from Dorilaus
+and Louisa: The Marriage agreed upon</i>.</p>
+<p>CHAP. XXVI.</p>
+<p><i>The Catastrophe of the Whole</i>.</p>
+<br/><br/><br/>
+
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>THE FORTUNATE FOUNDLINGS.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. I.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Contains the manner in which a gentleman found children: his
+benevolence towards them, and what kind of affection he bore to them as
+they grew up. With the departure of one of them to the army</i>.</p>
+<p>It was in the ever memorable year 1688, that a gentleman, whose real
+name we think proper to conceal under that of Dorilaus, returned from
+visiting most of the polite courts of Europe, in which he had passed some
+time divided between pleasure and improvement. The important question if
+the throne were vacated or not, by the sudden departure of the unfortunate
+king James, was then upon the tapis; on which, to avoid interesting
+himself on either side, he forbore coming to London, and crossed the
+country to a fine feat he had about some forty miles distant, where he
+resolved to stay as privately as he could, till the great decision should
+be made, and the public affairs settled in such a manner as not to lay him
+under a necessity of declaring his sentiments upon them.</p>
+<p>He was young and gay, loved magnificence and the pomp of courts, and
+was far from being insensible of those joys which the conversation of the
+fair sex affords; but had never so much enslaved his reason to any one
+pleasure, as not to be able to refrain it. Hunting and reading were very
+favourite amusements with him, so that the solitude he now was in was not
+at all disagreeable or tedious to him, tho' he continued in it some
+months.</p>
+<p>A little time before his departure an accident happened, which gave him
+an opportunity of exercising the benevolence of his disposition; and, tho'
+it then seemed trivial to him, proved of the utmost consequence to his
+future life, as well as furnished matter for the following pages.</p>
+<p>As he was walking pretty early one morning in his garden, very intent
+on a book he had in his hand, his meditations were interrupted by an
+unusual cry, which seemed at some distance; but as he approached a little
+arbour, where he was sometimes accustomed to sit, he heard more plain and
+distinct, and on his entrance was soon convinced whence it proceeded.</p>
+<p>Just at the foot of a large tree, the extensive boughs of which greatly
+contributed to form the arbour, was placed a basket closely covered on the
+one side, and partly open on the other to let in the air. Tho' the sounds
+which still continued to issue from it left Dorilaus no room to doubt what
+it contained; he stooped down to look, and saw two beautiful babes neatly
+dressed in swadling cloaths: between them and the pillow they were laid
+upon was pinned a paper, which he hastily taking off, found in it these
+words.</p>
+<p><i>To the generous</i> DORISLAUS:<br/>
+'Irresistible destiny abandons these helpless infants<br/>
+to your care.—They are twins, begot<br/>
+by the same father, and born of the same mother,<br/>
+and of a blood not unworthy the protection<br/>
+they stand in need of; which if you vouchsafe to<br/>
+afford, they will have no cause to regret the misfortune<br/>
+of their birth, or accuse the authors of<br/>
+their being.—Why they seek it of you in particular,<br/>
+you may possibly be hereafter made sensible.—In<br/>
+the mean time content yourself with<br/>
+knowing they are already baptized by the names<br/>
+of Horatio and Louisa.'</p>
+<p>The astonishment he was in at so unexpected a present being made him,
+may more easily be imagined than expressed; but he had then no time to
+form any conjectures by whom or by what means it was left there: the
+children wanted immediate succour, and he hesitated not a moment whether
+it would become him to bestow it: he took the basket up himself, and
+running as fast as he could with it into the house, called his
+maid-servants about him, and commanded them to give these little strangers
+what assistance was in their power, while a man was sent among the tenants
+in search of nurses proper to attend them. To what person soever, said he,
+I am indebted for this confidence, it must not be abused.—Besides,
+whatever stands in need of protection, merits protection from those who
+have the power to give it.</p>
+<p>This was his way of thinking, and in pursuance of these generous
+sentiments he always acted. The report of what happened in his house being
+soon spread thro' the country, there were not wanting several who came to
+offer their service to the children, out of which he selected two of whom
+he heard the best character, and were most likely to be faithful to the
+trust reposed in them, giving as great a charge, and as handsome an
+allowance with them, as could have been expected from a father. Indeed he
+doubtless had passed for being so in the opinion of every body, had he
+arrived sooner in the kingdom; but the shortness of the time not
+permitting any such suggestion, he was looked upon as a prodigy of charity
+and goodness.</p>
+<p>Having in this handsome manner disposed of his new guests, he began to
+examine all his servants, thinking it impossible they should be brought
+there without the privity of some one of them; but all his endeavours
+could get him no satisfaction in this point. He read the letter over and
+over, yet still his curiosity was as far to seek as ever.—The hand he was
+entirely unacquainted with, but thought there was something in the style
+that showed it wrote by no mean person: the hint contained in it, that
+there was some latent reason for addressing him in particular on this
+account, was very puzzling to him: he could not conceive why he, any more
+than any other gentleman of the county, should have an interest in the
+welfare of these children: he had no near relations, and those distant
+ones who claimed an almost forgotten kindred were not in a condition to
+abandon their progeny.—The thing appeared strange to him; but all his
+endeavours to give him any farther light into it being unsuccessful; he
+began to imagine the parents of the children had been compelled by
+necessity to expose them, and had had only wrote in this mysterious manner
+to engage a better reception: he also accounted in his mind for their
+being left with him, as, he being a batchelor, and having a large estate,
+it might naturally be supposed there would be fewer impediments to their
+being taken care of, than either where a wife was in the case, or a narrow
+fortune obliged the owner to preserve a greater oeconomy in expences.</p>
+<p>Being at last convinced within himself that he had now explained this
+seeming riddle, he took no farther trouble about whose, or what these
+children were, but resolved to take care of them during their infancy,
+and afterwards to put them into such a way as he should find their
+genius's rendered them most fit for, in order to provide for themselves.</p>
+<p>On his leaving the county, he ordered his housekeeper to furnish every
+thing needful for them as often as they wanted it, and to take care they
+were well used by the women with whom he had placed them; and delivered
+these commands not in a cursory or negligent manner, but in such terms as
+terrified any failure of obedience in this point would highly incur his
+displeasure.</p>
+<p>Nothing material happening during their infancy, I shall pass over
+those years in silence, only saying that as often as Dorilaus went down to
+his estate (which was generally two or three times a year) he always sent
+for them, and expressed a very great satisfaction in finding in their
+looks the charge he had given concerning them so well executed: but when
+they arrived at an age capable of entertaining him with their innocent
+prattle, what before was charity, improved into affection; and he began to
+regard them with a tenderness little inferior to paternal; but which still
+increased with their increase of years.</p>
+<p>Having given them the first rudiments of education in the best schools
+those parts afforded, he placed Louisa with a gentlewoman, who deservedly
+had the reputation of being an excellent governess of youth, and brought
+Horatio in his own chariot up to London, where he put him to Westminster
+School, under the care of doctor Busby, and agreed for his board in a
+family that lived near it, and had several other young gentlemen on the
+same terms.</p>
+<p>What more could have been expected from the best of fathers! what more
+could children, born to the highest fortunes, have enjoyed! nor was their
+happiness like to be fleeting: Dorilaus was a man steady in his
+resolutions, had always declared an aversion to marriage, and by
+rejecting every overture made him on that score, had made his friends
+cease any farther importunities; he had besides (as has already been
+observed) no near relations, so that it was the opinion of most people
+that he would make the young Horatio heir to the greatest part of his
+estate, and give Louisa a portion answerable to her way of bringing up.
+What he intended for them, however, is uncertain, he never having declared
+his sentiments so far concerning them; and the strange revolutions
+happening afterwards in both their fortunes, preventing him from acting as
+it is possible he might design.</p>
+<p>The education he allowed them indeed gave very good grounds for the
+above-mentioned conjecture.—Louisa being taught all the accomplishments
+that became a maid of quality to be mistress of; and Horatio having gone
+thro' all the learning of the school, was taken home to his own house,
+from whence he was to go to Oxford, in order to finish his studies in the
+character of a gentleman-commoner.</p>
+<p>But when every thing was preparing for this purpose, he came one
+morning into the chamber of his patron, and throwing himself on his
+knees—Think me not, sir, said he, too presuming in the request I am
+about to make you.—I know all that I am is yours.—That I am the creature
+of your bounty, and that, without being a father, you have done more for
+me than many of those, who are so, do for their most favourite sons.—I
+know also that you are the best judge of what is fit for me, and have not
+the least apprehensions that you will not always continue the same
+goodness to me, provided I continue, as I have hitherto done, the ambition
+of meriting it.—Yet, sir, pardon me if I now discover a desire with which
+I long have laboured, of doing something of myself which may repair the
+obscurity of my birth, and prove to the world that heaven has endued this
+foundling with a courage and resolution capable of undertaking the
+greatest actions.</p>
+<p>In speaking these last words a fire seemed to sparkle from his eyes,
+which sufficiently denoted the vehemence of his inward agitations.
+Dorilaus was extremely surprized, but after a little pause, what is it you
+request of me? said that noble gentleman, (at the same time raising him
+from the posture he was in) or by what means than such as I have already
+taken, can I oblige you to think that, in being my foundling, fortune
+dealt not too severely with you?</p>
+<p>Ah! sir, mistake me not, I beseech you, replied the young Horatio, or
+think me wanting in my gratitude either to heaven or you.—But, sir, it is
+to your generous care in cultivating the talents I received from nature,
+that I owe this emulation, this ardor for doing something that might give
+me a name, which is the only thing your bounty cannot bestow.—My genius
+inclines me to the army.—Of all the accomplishments you have caused me to
+be instructed in, geography, fortification, and fencing, have been my
+darling studies.—Of what use, sir, will they be to me in an idle life?
+permit me then the opportunity of showing the expense you have been at has
+not been thrown away.—I know they will say I am too young to bear a
+commission, but if I had the means of going a volunteer, I cannot help
+thinking but I should soon give proofs the extreme desire I have to serve
+my country that way would well attone for my want of years.</p>
+<p>The more he spoke, the more the astonishment of his patron increased:
+he admired the greatness of his spirit, but was troubled it led him to a
+desire of running into so dangerous a way of life.—He represented to him
+all the hardships of a soldier, the little regard that was sometimes paid
+to merit, and gave him several instances of gentlemen who had passed their
+youth in the service, and behaved with extreme bravery, yet had no other
+reward than their fears, and a consciousness of having done more than was
+their duty: in war, said he, the superior officers carry away all the glory
+as well as profits of the victory; whereas in civil employments it is quite
+otherwise: in physic, in law, in divinity, or in the state, your merits
+will be immediately conspicuous to those who have the power to reward you;
+and if you are desirous of acquiring a name, by which I suppose you mean
+to become the head of a family, any of these afford you a much greater
+prospect of success, and it lies much more in my power of assisting your
+promotion.</p>
+<p>To these he added many other arguments, but they were not of the least
+weight with the impatient Horatio. He was obstinate in his entreaties,
+which he even with tears enforced, and Dorilaus, considering so strong a
+propensity as something supernatural, at last consented.—Never was joy
+more sincere and fervent than what this grant occasioned, and he told his
+benefactor that he doubted not but that hereafter he should hear such an
+account of his behaviour, as would make him not repent his having complied
+with his request.</p>
+<p>The preparations for his going to Oxford were now converted into others
+of a different nature.—Several of our troops were already sent to
+Flanders, and others about to embark, in order to open the campaign; so
+that there was but a small space between the time of Horatio's asking
+leave to go, and that of his departure, which Dorilaus resolved should be
+in a manner befitting a youth whom he had bred up as his own. He provided
+him a handsome field-equipage, rich cloaths, horses, and a servant to
+attend him; and while these things were getting ready, had masters to
+perfect him in riding; and those other exercises proper for the vocation
+he was now entering into, all which he performed with so good a grace,
+that not only Dorilaus himself, who might be suspected to look on him with
+partial eyes, but all who saw him were perfectly charmed.</p>
+<p>He was more than ordinarily tall for his years, admirably well
+proportioned, and had something of a grave fierceness in his air and
+deportment, that tho' he was not yet sixteen, he might very well have
+passed for twenty: he was also extremely fair, had regular features, and
+eyes the most penetrating, mixed with a certain sweetness; so that it was
+difficult to say whether he seemed most formed for love or war.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus thinking it highly proper he should take his leave of Louisa,
+sent for her from the boarding-school, that she might pass the short time
+he had to stay with her brother at his house, not without some hopes that
+the great tenderness there was between them might put Horatio out of his
+resolution of going to the army, who being grown now extremely dear to
+him, he could not think of parting with, tho' he had yielded to it,
+without a great deal of reluctance.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that when she first heard the motive which had
+occasioned her being sent for, her gentle breast was filled with the most
+terrible alarms for her dear brother's danger; but the little regard he
+seemed to have of it, and the high ideas he had of future greatness, soon
+brought her to think as he did; and instead of dissuading him from
+prosecuting his design, she rather encouraged him in it: and in this gave
+the first testimony of a greatness of soul, no less to be admired than the
+courage and laudable ambition which actuated that of her brother.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus beheld with an infinity of satisfaction the success of his
+endeavours, in favour of these amiable twins, and said within himself, how
+great a pity would it have been, if capacities such as theirs had been
+denied the means of improvement!</p>
+<p>After the departure of Horatio, he kept Louisa some time with him,
+under pretence of showing her the town, which before she had never seen;
+but in reality to alleviate that melancholy which parting from her
+brother had caused in him. He could not have taken a more effectual way;
+for there was such an engaging and sweet cheerfulness in her conversation,
+added to many personal perfections, that it was scarce possible to think
+of any thing else while she was present. She had also an excellent voice,
+and played well on the bass viol and harpsicord, so that it is hard to say
+whether he found most satisfaction in hearing her or discoursing with
+her.</p>
+<p>But how dangerous is it to depend on one's own strength, against the
+force of such united charms! Dorilaus, who, in the midst of a thousand
+temptations, had maintained the entire liberty of his heart, and tho'
+never insensible of beauty, had never been enslaved by it, was now by
+charms he least suspected, and at an age when he believed himself proof
+against all the attacks of love, subdued without knowing that he was
+so.—The tender passion stole into his soul by imperceptible degrees, and
+under the shape of friendship and paternal affection, met with no
+opposition from his reason, till it became too violent to be restrained;
+then showed itself in the whole power of restless wishes, fears, hopes,
+and impatiences, which he had often heard others complain of, but not till
+now experienced in himself: all that he before had felt of love was
+languid, at best aimed only at enjoyment, and in the gratification of that
+desire was extinguished; but the passion he was possessed of for Louisa
+was of a different nature, and accompanied with a respect which would not
+suffer him to entertain a thought in prejudice of her innocence.</p>
+<p>Many reasons, besides his natural aversion to marriage, concurred to
+hinder him from making her his wife; and as there were yet more to deter
+him from being the instrument of her dishonour, the situation of his mind
+was very perplexing.—He blushed within himself at the inclinations he had
+for a girl whom he had always behaved to as a child of his own, and who
+looked upon him as a father: not only the disparity of their years made
+him consider the passion he was possessed of as ridiculous, there was one
+circumstance, which, if at any time a thought of marrying her entered into
+his head, immediately extirpated it, which was, that there was a
+possibility of her being born not only of the meanest, but the vilest
+parents, who, on hearing her establishment, might appear and claim the
+right they had in her; and lo, said he, I shall ally myself to, perhaps, a
+numerous family of vagabonds; at least, whether it be so or not, the
+manner in which these children were exposed, being publicly known, may
+furnish a pretence for any wretch to boast a kindred.</p>
+<p>He was therefore determined to suppress a passion, which, as he had too
+much honour to seek the gratification of by one way, his prudence and
+character in the world would not allow him to think of by the other: and
+as absence seemed to him the best remedy, he sent her down into the
+country again with a precipitation, which made her (wholly ignorant of the
+real motive) fear she had done something to offend him. At parting, she
+entreated him to let her know if he had been dissatisfied with any thing
+in her behaviour.—Wherefore do you ask? said he, with some emotion, which
+the poor innocent still mistook for displeasure; because, answered she,
+dropping some tears at the same time, that you banish me from your
+presence. Why would you be glad to continue with me always? again demanded
+he. Yes indeed, said she; and if you loved me as well as you do my
+brother, you would never part with me; for I saw with what regret you let
+him go.</p>
+<p>This tender simplicity added such fewel to the fire with which Dorilaus
+was enflamed, that it almost consumed his resolution: he walked about the
+room some time without being able to speak, much less to quiet the
+agitation he was in. At last, Louisa, said he, I was only concerned your
+brother made choice of an avocation so full of dangers;—but I never
+intended to keep him at home with me:—he should have gone to Oxford to
+finish his studies; and the reason I send you again to the boarding-school
+is that you may perfect yourself in such things as you may not yet be
+mistress of:—as for any apprehensions of my being offended with you, I
+would have you banish them entirely, for I assure you, I can find nothing
+in you but what both merits and receives my approbation.</p>
+<p>She seemed extremely comforted with these words; and the coach being at
+the door, went into it with her accustomed chearfulness, leaving him in a
+state which none but those who have experienced the severe struggles
+between a violent inclination and a firm resolution to oppose it, can
+possibly conceive.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. II.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Relates the offers made by Dorilaus to Louisa, and the manner of her
+receiving them</i>.</p>
+<p>Louisa was no sooner gone, than he wished her with him again, and was a
+thousand times about to send and have her brought back; but was as often
+prevented by the apprehensions of her discovering the motive.—He was now
+convinced that love does not always stand in need of being indulged to
+enforce its votaries to be guilty of extravagancies.</p>
+<p>—He had banished the object of his affections from his presence; he
+had painted all the inconveniences of pursuing his desires in the worst
+colours they would bear; yet all was insufficient!—Louisa was absent in
+reality, but her image was ever present to him.—Whatever company he
+engaged himself in, whatever amusement he endeavoured to entertain himself
+with, he could think only of her.</p>
+<p>—The Town without her seemed a desart, and every thing in it rather
+seemed irksome than agreeable; for several months did he endure this cruel
+conflict; but love and nature at last got the victory, and all those
+considerations which had occasioned the opposition subsided: he found it
+impossible to recover any tranquility of mind while he continued in this
+dilemma, and therefore yielded to the strongest side. All the arguments he
+had used with himself in the beginning of his passion seemed now weak and
+trifling: the difference of age, which he had thought so formidable an
+objection, appeared none in the light with which he at present considered
+it: he was now but in his fortieth year, and the temperance he had always
+observed had hindered any decay either in his looks or constitution.—What
+censures the world might pass on his marrying one of her age and obscure
+birth, he thought were of little weight when balanced with his internal
+peace.—Thus was he enabled to answer to himself all that could be offered
+against making her his wife; and having thus settled every thing, as he
+imagined, to the satisfaction of his passion, became no less resolute in
+following the dictates of it than he had been in combating it while there
+was a possibility of doing so.</p>
+<p>To this end he went down to his country seat, and as soon as he arrived
+sent to let Louisa know he would have her come and pass some time with him.
+She readily obeyed the summons, and found by his manner of receiving her
+that she was no less dear to him than her brother. As she had always
+considered him as a father, tho' she knew all her claim in him was
+compassion, she was far from suspecting the motive which made him treat
+her with so much tenderness; but he suffered her not long to remain in
+this happy ignorance. As he was walking with her one day in the garden, he
+purposely led her on that side where he had found Horatio and herself in
+the manner already related; and as they came towards the arbour, It was
+here, said he, that heaven put into my power the opportunity of affording
+my protection to two persons whom I think will not be ungrateful for what
+I have done.—I hope, Louisa, continued he, you will not at least deceive
+my good opinion of you; but as you have always found in me a real friend,
+you will testify the sense you have of my good wishes, by readily
+following my advice in any material point.</p>
+<p>I should be else unworthy, sir, answered she, of the life you have
+preserved; and I flatter myself with being guilty of nothing which should
+give you cause to call in question either my gratitude or duty.</p>
+<p>I insist but on the former, resumed he; nor can pretend to any claim to
+the latter;—look on me therefore only as your friend, and let me know
+your sentiments plainly and sincerely on what I think proper to ask you.
+This she having assured him she would do, he pursued his discourse in
+these or the like terms:</p>
+<p>You are now, said he, arrived at an age when persons of your sex
+ordinarily begin to think of marriage.—I need not ask you if you have
+ever received any addresses for that purpose; the manner in which you have
+lived convinces me you are yet a stranger to them; but I would know of you
+whether an overture of that kind, in favour of a man of honour, and who
+can abundantly endow you with the goods of fortune, would be disagreeable
+to you.</p>
+<p>Alas! sir, replied she, blushing, you commanded me to answer with
+sincerity, but how can I resolve a question which as yet I have never
+asked myself?—All that I can say is, that I now am happy by your bounty,
+and have never entertained one wish but for the continuance of it.</p>
+<p>On that you may depend, said he, while you continue to stand in need of
+it. But would it not be more pleasing to find yourself the mistress of an
+ample fortune, and in a condition to do the same good offices by others as
+you have found from me?—In fine, Louisa, the care I have taken of you
+would not be complete unless I saw you well settled in the world.—I have
+therefore provided a husband for you, and such a one as I think you can
+have no reasonable objection to.</p>
+<p>Sir, it would ill-become me to dispute your will, answered she,
+modestly, but as I yet am very young, and have never had a thought of
+marriage, nor even conversed with any who have experienced that fate, I
+should be too much at a loss how to behave in it, without being allowed
+some time to consider on its respective duties.—I hope therefore, sir,
+continued she, you will not oblige me to act with too much precipitation
+in an affair on which the happiness or misery of my whole future life
+depends.</p>
+<p>Your very thinking it of consequence, said he, is enough to make you
+behave so, as to allure your happiness with a man of honour; and indeed
+Louisa, I love you too well to propose one to you whose principles and
+humour I could not answer for as well as my own.</p>
+<p>Yet, sir, replied she, I have read that a union of hearts as well as
+hands is necessary for the felicity of that state;—that there ought to be
+a simpathy of soul between them, and a perfect confidence in each other,
+before the indissoluble knot is tied:—and this, according to my notion,
+can only be the result of a long acquaintance and accompanied with many
+proofs of affection on both sides.</p>
+<p>Were all young women to think as you do, said he with a smile, we would
+have much fewer marriages; they would indeed be happier; therefore I am
+far from condemning your precaution, nor would wish you should give
+yourself to one till well assured he was incapable of treating you with
+less regard after marriage than before:—no, no, Louisa, I will never
+press you to become a wife, till you shall yourself acknowledge the man I
+offer to you as a husband is not unworthy of that title, thro' a want of
+honour, fortune, or affection.</p>
+<p>As Louisa thought this must be the work of time, the chagrin she felt
+at the first mention of marriage was greatly dissipated; and she told him,
+that when she was once convinced such a person as he described honoured
+her so far as to think she merited his affection, she would do all in her
+power to return it.</p>
+<p>The enamoured Dorilaus having now brought her to the point he aimed at,
+thought it best to throw off the mark at once, and leave her no longer in
+suspence.—Behold then in me, said he, the person I have mentioned: nor
+think me vain in ascribing those merits to myself which I would wish to be
+the loadstone of your affection.—My honour, I believe, you will not call
+in question:—my humour you have never found capricious, or difficult to
+please; and as for my love, you cannot but allow the conquering that
+aversion, which myself, as well as all the world, believed unalterable for
+a marriage state; besides a thousand other scruples opposed my entering
+into it with you, is a proof greater than almost any other man could give
+you.—There requires, therefore, my dear Louisa, no time to convince you
+of what I am, or assure you of what I may be; and I hope the affection you
+bore me, as a faithful friend, and the protector of your innocence, will
+not be diminished on my making this declaration.</p>
+<p>The confusion in which this speech involved her is even impossible to
+be conceived, much less can any words come up to its description: she
+blushed;—she trembled;—she was ready to die between surprize, grief and
+shame:—fain she would have spoke, but feared, lest what she should say
+would either lose his friendship or encourage his passion.—Each seemed
+equally dreadful to her:—no words presented themselves to her distracted
+mind that she could think proper to utter, till he pressing her several
+times to reply, and seeming a little to resent her silence—Oh! sir, cried
+she, how is it possible for me to make any answer to so strange a
+proposition!—you were not used to rally my simplicity; nor can I think
+you mean what you now mention. If there wanted no more, said he, than to
+prove the sincerity of my wishes in this point to gain your approbation of
+them, my chaplain should this moment put it past a doubt, and confirm my
+proposal:—but, pursued he, I will not put your modesty to any farther
+shock at present;—all I intreat is, that you will consider on what I
+have said, and what the passion I am possessed of merits from you. In
+concluding these words he kissed her with the utmost tenderness, and
+quitted her to speak to some men who were at work in another part of the
+garden, leaving her to meditate at liberty on this surprizing turn in her
+affairs.</p>
+<p>It was indeed necessary he should do so, for the various agitations she
+laboured under were so violent, as to be near throwing her into a
+swoon.—She no sooner found herself alone, than she flew to her chamber,
+and locked herself in, to prevent being interrupted by any of the
+servants; and as in all emotions of the mind, especially in that of a
+surprize, tears are a very great relief, her's found some ease from the
+sources of her eyes.—Never had the most dutiful child loved the tenderest
+of fathers more than she did Dorilaus; but then it was only a filial
+affection, and the very thoughts of his regarding her with that sort of
+passion she now found he did, had somewhat in them terribly alarming.—All
+she could do to reconcile herself to what seemed to be her fate was in
+vain.—This generous man who offers me his heart, said she, is not my
+father, or any way of my blood:—he has all the accomplishments of his
+whole sex centered in him.—I could wish to be for ever near him.—All
+that I am is owing to his goodness.—How wretched must I have been but for
+his bounty!—What unaccountable prejudice is this then that strikes me
+with such horror at his love!—what maid of birth and fortune equal to his
+own but would be proud of his addresses; and shall I, a poor foundling,
+the creature of his charity, not receive the honour he does me with the
+utmost gratitude!—shall I reject a happiness so far beyond my
+expectation!—so infinitely above any merit I can pretend to!—what must
+he think of me if I refuse him!—how madly stupid, how blind to my own
+interest, how thankless to him must I appear!—how will he despise my
+folly!—how hate my ingratitude!</p>
+<p>Thus did her reason combat with her prejudice, and she suffered much
+the same agonies in endeavouring to love him in the manner he desired, as
+he had done to conquer the inclination he had for her, and both alike were
+fruitless. Yet was her condition much more to be commiserated: he had only
+to debate within himself whether he should yield or not to the suggestions
+of his own passion: she to subdue an aversion for what a thousand reasons
+concurred to convince her she ought rather to be ambitious of, and which
+in refusing she run the risque of being cast off, and abandoned to beggary
+and ruin; and what was still more hateful to her, being hated by that
+person who, next to her brother, she loved above the world, tho' in a
+different way from that which could alone content him.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, who had taken the disorder he perceived in her for no other
+than the effects of a surprize, which a declaration, such as he had made,
+might very well occasion, was perfectly contented in his mind, and passed
+that night with much more tranquility than he had done many preceding
+ones, while he suffered his cruel reason to war against the dictates of
+his heart; but having now wholly given himself up to the latter, the sweet
+delusion filled him with a thousand pleasing ideas, and he thought of
+nothing but the happiness he should enjoy in the possession of the amiable
+Louisa. But how confounded was he, when the next day accosting her with
+all the tender transports of a lover, she turned from him, and burst into
+a flood of tears. How is this, Louisa, said he; do the offers I make you
+merit to be treated with disdain? has my submitting to be your lover
+forfeited that respect you were wont to pay me as a guardian? O do not,
+sir, accuse me of such black ingratitude, replied she; heaven knows with
+what sincere and humble duty I regard you, and that I would sooner die
+than wilfully offend you; but if I am so unfortunate as not to be able to
+obey you in this last command, impute it, I beseech you, to my ill fate,
+and rather pity than condemn me.</p>
+<p>You cannot love me then? cried he, somewhat feircely. No otherwise than
+I have ever done, answered she. My heart is filled with duty, reverence
+and gratitude, of which your goodness is the only source: as for any other
+sort of love I know not what it is; were it a voluntary emotion, believe
+me, sir, I gladly would give it entrance into my soul, but I well see it
+is of a far different nature.</p>
+<p>Yet is your person at your own disposal, resumed he; and when possessed
+of that, the flame which burns so fiercely in my breast, in time may
+kindle one in yours. In speaking these words he took her in his arms, and
+kissed her with a vehemence which the prodigious respect she bore to him,
+as the patron and benefactor of herself and brother, could alone have made
+her suffer.—Her eyes however sparkled with indignation, tho' her tongue
+was silent, and at last bursting from his embrace, this, sir, cried she,
+is not the way to make me think as you would have me. As in this action he
+had no way transgressed the rules of decency, he could ill brook the
+finding her so much alarmed at it; and would have testified his
+resentment, had not the excess of his love, which is ever accompanied with
+an adequate share of respect, obliged him to stifle it. Well, Louisa, said
+he, looking earnestly upon her, ungenerously do you requite what I have
+done for you; but I, perhaps, may bring myself to other sentiments.—None,
+interrupted she, emboldened by the too great freedom she thought he had
+taken with her, can be so dreadful to me as those you now seem to
+entertain.</p>
+<p>The look he gave her on hearing her speak in this manner, made her
+immediately repent having been so open; and in the same breath, because;
+pursued she, I look on it as the worst evil could befal me that I am
+compelled to oppose them.</p>
+<p>Come, said he, again softened by these last words, you will not always
+oppose them: the fervor and constancy of my passion, joined with a little
+yielding on your side, will by degrees excite a tender impulse in you; and
+whatever is disagreeable at present, either in my person or behaviour,
+will wear of.—Permit me at least to flatter myself so far, and refuse me
+not those innocent endearments I have been accustomed to treat you with;
+before you knew me as a lover, or I indeed suspected I should be so.</p>
+<p>He then kissed her again; but tho' he constrained himself within more
+bounds than before, those caresses which she received with pleasure, when
+thinking them only demonstrations of friendship, were now irksome, as
+knowing them the effects of love: she suffered him however to embrace her
+several times, and hold one of her hands close pressed between his, while
+he endeavoured to influence her mind by all the tender arguments his
+passion, backed with an infinity of wit, inspired; to all which she made
+as few replies as possible; but he contented himself, as love is always
+flattering, with imagining she was less refractory to his suit than when
+he first declared it.</p>
+<p>Every day, and almost the whole day, did he entertain her on no other
+subject, but gained not the least ground on her inclinations; and all he
+could get from her was the wish of being less insensible, without the
+least indication of ever being so.</p>
+<p>In this manner did they live together near three weeks; and how much
+longer be would have been able to restrain his impatience, or she to
+conceal the extreme regret in being compelled to listen to him, is
+uncertain: a law-suit required his presence to town, and Louisa was in
+hopes of being relieved for some time; but his passion was arrived at such
+a height that he could not support the least absence from her, and
+therefore brought her to London with him, so that her persecution ceased
+not, he never stirring from her but when the most urgent business obliged
+him to it.</p>
+<p>One night happening to have stayed pretty late abroad, and in company,
+which occasioned his drinking more plentifully than he was accustomed,
+Louisa was retired to her chamber in order to go to bed: his love, ever
+uppermost in his head, would not permit him to think of sleeping without
+seeing her; accordingly he ran up into her room, and finding she was not
+undressed, told her he had something to acquaint her with, on which the
+maid that waited on her withdrew. Tho' the passion he was inspired with
+could not be heightened, his behaviour now proved it might at least be
+rendered more ungovernable by being enflamed with wine: He no sooner was
+alone with her, than he threw himself upon her as she was sitting in a
+chair, crying, O when my angel, my dear adored Louisa, will you consent to
+make me blest.—By heaven, I can no longer wait the tedious formalities
+your modesty demands.—I cannot think you hate me, and must this night
+ensure you mine. While he spoke these words his lips were so closely
+cemented to her's, that had there been no other hindrance, it would have
+been impossible for her to have reply'd.—But terrified beyond measure at
+the wild disorder of his looks, the expressions he made use of, and the
+actions that accompanied them, she wanted even the power of repulsing,
+till seeing her almost breathless, he withdrew his arms which he had
+thrown round her neck, and contenting himself with holding one of her
+hands,—Tell me, pursued he, when may I hope a recompence for all I have
+suffered?—I must, I will have an end of all these fears of
+offending;—this cruel constaint;—this distance between us.—Few men,
+Louisa, in the circumstances we both are, would, like me, so long attend a
+happiness in my power to seize.—Trifle not therefore with a passion, the
+consequences of which there is no answering for.</p>
+<p>O, sir! said she, with a trembling voice, you cannot, from the most
+generous, virtuous and honourable man living, degenerate into a brutal
+ravisher.—You will not destroy the innocence you have cherished, and
+which is all that is valuable in the poor Louisa. She ended these words
+with a flood of tears, which, together with the sight of the confusion he
+had occasioned, made him a little recollect himself; and to prevent the
+wildness of his desires from getting the better of those rules he had
+resolved to observe, he let go her hand, and having told her that he would
+press her no farther that night, but expected a more satisfactory answer
+the next day, went out of her chamber, and left her to enjoy what repose
+she could after the alarm he had given her.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. III.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Dorilaus continues his importunities, with some unexpected
+consequences that attended them</i>.</p>
+<p>Poor Louisa concealed the distraction she was in as much as possible
+she could from the maid, who immediately came into the room on Dorilaus
+having quitted it, and suffered her to undress, and put her to bed as
+usual; but was no sooner there, than instead of composing herself to
+sleep, she began to reflect on what he had said:—the words, <i>that there
+was no answering for the consequences of a passion such as his</i>, gave
+her the most terrible idea.—His actions too, this night, seem'd to
+threaten her with all a virgin had to fear.—She knew him a man of honour,
+but thought she had too much reason to suspect that if she persisted in
+refusing to be his wife, that passion which had influenced him, contrary
+to his character, to make her such an offer, would also be too potent for
+any consideration of her to restrain him from proceeding to extremities.
+Having debated every thing within her own mind, she thought she ought not
+to continue a day longer in the power of a man who loved her to this
+extravagant degree: where to go indeed she knew not;—she had no friend,
+or even acquaintance, to whom she might repair, or hope to be
+received.—How should she support herself then?—which way procure even
+the most common necessaries of life?—This was a dreadful prospect! yet
+appeared less so than that she would avoid: even starving lost its horrors
+when compared either to being compelled to wed a man whom she could not
+affect as a husband, or, by refusing him, run the risque of forfeiting her
+honour.—She therefore hesitated but a small time, and having once formed
+the resolution of quitting Dorilaus's house, immediately set about putting
+it into execution.</p>
+<p>In the first place, not to be ungrateful to him as a benefactor, she
+sat down and wrote the following letter to be left for him on her table:</p>
+<p>SIR,<br/>
+'Heaven having rendered me of a disposition<br/>
+utterly incapable of receiving the honour<br/>
+you would do me, it would be an ill return for<br/>
+all the unmerited favours you have heaped upon<br/>
+me to prolong the disquiets I have unhappily occasioned<br/>
+by continuing in your presence;—besides,<br/>
+sir, the education you have vouchsafed to<br/>
+give me has been such, as informs me a person<br/>
+of my sex makes but an odd figure while in the<br/>
+power of one of yours possessed of the sentiments<br/>
+you are.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'These, sir, are the reasons which oblige me to<br/>
+withdraw; and I hope, when well considered,<br/>
+will enough apologize for my doing so, to keep<br/>
+you from hating what you have but too much<br/>
+loved; for I beseech you to believe a great truth,<br/>
+which is, that the most terrible idea I carry with<br/>
+me is, lest while I fly the one, I should incur the<br/>
+other; and that, wheresoever my good or ill stars<br/>
+shall conduct me, my first and last prayers shall<br/>
+be for the peace, health, and prosperity of my<br/>
+most generous and ever honoured patron and benefactor.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'Judge favourably, therefore, of this action,<br/>
+and rather pity than condemn the unfortunate<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.'</p>
+<p>Having sealed and directed this, she dressed herself in one of the
+least remarkable and plainest suits she had, taking nothing with her but a
+little linnen which she crammed into her pockets, and so sat waiting till
+she heard some of the family were stirring; then went down stairs, and
+being; seen by one of the footmen, she told him she was not very well, and
+was going to take a little walk in hopes the fresh air might relieve her;
+he offered to wait upon her, but she refused, saying, she chose to go
+alone.</p>
+<p>Thus had she made her escape; but, when in the street, was seized with
+very alarming apprehensions.—She was little acquainted with the town, and
+knew not which way to turn in search of a retreat.—Resolving, however, to
+go far enough, at least, from the house she had quitted, she wandered on,
+almost tired to death, without stopping any where, till chance directed
+her to a retired nook, where she saw a bill for lodgings on one of the
+doors.—Here she went in, and finding the place convenient for her present
+circumstances, hired a small, but neat chamber, telling the people of the
+house that she was come to town in order to get a service, and till she
+heard of one to her liking, would be glad to do any needle-work she should
+be employed in.</p>
+<p>The landlady, who happened to be a good motherly sort of woman,
+replied, that she was pleased with her countenance, or she would not have
+taken her in without enquiring into her character; and as she seemed not
+to be desirous of an idle life, she would recommend her to those that
+should find her work if she stayed with her never so long.</p>
+<p>This was joyful news to our fair fugitive; and she blessed heaven for
+so favourable a beginning of her adventures. The woman was punctual to her
+promise; and being acquainted with a very great milliner, soon brought her
+more work than she could do, without encroaching into those hours nature
+requires for repose: but she seemed not to regret any fatigue to oblige
+the person who employed her, and sent home all she did so neat, so curious,
+and well wrought, that the milliner easily saw she had not been accustomed
+to do it for bread, and was very desirous of having her into the house,
+and securing her to herself. Louisa thinking it would be living with less
+care, agreed to go, on this condition, that she should be free to quit her
+in case any offer happened of waiting upon a lady. This was consented to
+by the other, who told her, that since she had that design, she could no
+where be so likely to succeed as at her house, which was very much
+frequented by the greatest ladies in the kingdom, she having the most
+Curiosities of any woman of her trade, which they came there to raffle
+for.</p>
+<p>On this Louisa took leave of her kind landlady, who having taken a
+great fancy to her, and believing it would be for her advantage, was not
+sorry to part with her. A quite new scene of life now presented itself to
+her:—she found indeed the milliner had not made a vain boast; for her
+house was a kind of rendezvous, where all the young and gay of both sexes
+daily resorted.—It was here the marquis of W——r lost his heart, for a
+time, to the fine mrs. S——ge:—here, that the duke of G——n first
+declared his amorous inclinations for mrs. C——r:—here, that the
+seemingly virtuous lady B——n received the addresses of that agreeable
+rover mr. D——n:—here, that the beautiful dutchess of M—— gave that
+encouragement, which all the world had sighed for, to the more fortunate
+than constant mr. C——: in fine, it might properly enough be called the
+theatre of gallantry, where love and wit joined to display their several
+talents either in real or pretended passions.</p>
+<p>Louisa usually sat at work in a back parlor behind that where the
+company were; but into which some of them often retired to talk to each
+other with more freedom.</p>
+<p>This gave her an opportunity of seeing in what manner too many of the
+great world passed their time, and how small regard some of them pay to
+the marriage vow: everyday presented her with examples of husbands, who
+behaved with no more than a cold civility to their own wives, and carried
+the fervor of their addresses to those of other men; and of wives who
+seemed rather to glory in, than be ashamed of a train of admirers. How
+senseless would these people think me, said she to herself, did they know
+I chose rather to work for my bread in mean obscurity, than yield to marry
+where I could not love.—Tenderness, mutual affection, and constancy. I
+find, are things not thought requisite to the happiness of a wedded state;
+and interest and convenience alone consulted. Yet was she far from
+repenting having rejected Dorilaus, or being in the lead influenced by the
+example of others.—The adventures she was witness of made her, indeed,
+more knowing of the world, but were far from corrupting those excellent
+morals she had received from nature, and had been so well improved by a
+strict education, that she not only loved virtue for its own sake, but
+despised and hated vice, tho' disguised under the most specious
+pretences.</p>
+<p>Her youth, beauty, and a certain sprightliness in her air, was too
+engaging to be in the house of such a woman as mrs. C——ge, (for so this
+court-milliner was called) without being very much taken notice of; and
+tho' most of the gentlemen who came there had some particular object in
+view, yet that did not hinder them from saying soft things to the pretty
+Louisa as often as they had opportunity. Among the number of those who
+pretended to admire her was mr. B——n, afterwards lord F——h; but his
+addresses were so far from making any impression on her in favour of his
+person or suit, that the one was wholly indifferent to her, and the other
+so distasteful, that to avoid being persecuted with it, she entreated mrs.
+C——ge to permit her to work above stairs, that she might be out of the
+way of all such solicitations for the future, either from him or any
+other. This request was easily complied with, and the rather because she,
+who knew not the strength of her journey-woman's resolution, nor the
+principles she had been bred in, was sometimes in fear of losing so great
+a help to her business, by the temptations that might be offered in a
+place so much exposed to sight. Mr. B——n no sooner missed her, than he
+enquired with a good deal of earnestness for her; and on mrs. C——ge's
+telling him she was gone away from her house, became so impatient to know
+where, and on what account she had left her, that this woman thinking it
+would be of advantage to her to own the truth, (for she did nothing
+without that view) turned off the imposition with a smile, and said, that
+perceiving the inclinations he had for her, she had sent her upstairs that
+no other addresses might be a hindrance to his designs.—This pleased him
+very well, and he ran directly to the room where he was informed she was,
+and after some little discourse, which he thought was becoming enough from
+a person of his condition to one of her's, began to treat her with
+freedoms which she could not help resisting with more fierceness than he
+had been accustomed to from women of a much higher rank; but as he had no
+great notion of virtue, especially among people of her sphere, he mistook
+all she said or did for artifice; and imagining she enhanced the merit of
+the gift only to enhance the recompence, he told her he would make her a
+handsome settlement, and offered, as an earnest of his future gratitude, a
+purse of money. The generous maid fired with a noble disdain at a
+proposal, which she looked on only as an additional insult, struck down
+the purse with the utmost indignation and cried, she was not of the number
+of those who thought gold an equivalent for infamy; and that mean as she
+appeared, not all his wealth should bribe her to a dishonourable action.
+At first he endeavoured to laugh her out of such idle notions as he called
+them, and was so far from being rebuffed at any thing she said, that he
+began to kiss and toy with her more freely than before, telling her he
+would bring her into a better humour; but he was wholly deceived in his
+expectations, if he had any of the nature he pretended, for she became so
+irritated at being treated in this manner, that she called out to the
+servants to come to her assistance, and protected she would not stay an
+hour longer in the house if she could not be secured from such
+impertinencies; on which he said she was a silly romantic fool, and flung
+out of the room.</p>
+<p>Mrs. C——ge hearing there had been some bustle, came up soon after and
+found Louisa in tears: she immediately complained, of mr. B——n's
+behaviour to her, and said, tho' she acknowledged herself under many
+obligations to her for the favours she had conferred on her, she could not
+think of remaining in a place where, tho' she could not say her virtue had
+any severe trials, because she had a natural detestation to crimes of the
+kind that gentleman and some others had mentioned, yet her person was
+liable to be affronted. The milliner, who was surprized to hear her talk
+in this manner, but who understood her trade perfectly well, answered,
+that he was the best conditioned civil gentleman in the world;—that she
+did not know how it happened;—that she was certain indeed he loved her;
+and that it was in his power to make her a very happy woman if she were
+inclined to accept his offers;—but she would perswade her to nothing.</p>
+<p>These kind of discourses created a kind of abhorrence in Louisa, as
+they plainly shewed her, what before she had some reason to believe, that
+she was in the house of one who would think nothing a crime that she found
+it her own interest to promote. However, she thought it would be imprudent
+to break too abruptly with her, and contented herself for the present with
+encasing her promise that neither mr. B——n, nor any other person should
+for the future give her the least interruption of the like sort.</p>
+<p>From this day, however, she was continually ruminating how she should
+quit her house, without running the risque of disobliging her so far as
+not to be employed by her; for tho' she found herself at present free from
+any of those importunities to which both by nature and principles she was
+so averse, yet she could not answer to herself the continuing in a place
+where virtue was treated as a thing of little or no consequence, and where
+she knew not how soon she might again be subjected to affronts.</p>
+<p>Amidst these meditations the thoughts of Dorilaus frequently
+intervened: she reflected on the obligations she had to him, and the
+mighty difference between the morals of that truly noble and generous man,
+and most of those she had seen at mrs. C——ge's: she wondered at herself
+at the antipathy she had to him as a husband, whom she so dearly loved and
+honoured as a friend; yet nothing could make her wish to be again on the
+same terms with him she had lately been. It also greatly added to her
+affliction that she knew not how to direct to her brother; for at the time
+of his departure, little suspicious of having any occasion to change the
+place of her abode, she had left the care of that entirely to Dorilaus.
+She was one morning very much lost in thought on the odd circumstances of
+her fortune, when a Gazette happening to lye upon the table, she cast her
+eye, without design, upon the following advertisement.<br/>
+<br/>
+'Whereas a young gentlewoman has lately<br/>
+thought fit to abscond from her best friends,<br/>
+and with the most diligent search that could possibly<br/>
+be made after her has not yet been heard of,<br/>
+this is to acquaint her that if she pleases to return,<br/>
+she shall hereafter have no disturbance of that<br/>
+nature which it is supposed occasioned her withdrawing<br/>
+herself, but live entirely according to<br/>
+her own inclinations; and this the advertiser<br/>
+hereof gives his word and honour (neither of<br/>
+which she has any cause to doubt) faithfully to<br/>
+adhere to.'<br/>
+<br/>
+'It shall also be at her choice to live either at<br/>
+the house she quitted, or to be again under the<br/>
+care of that gentlewoman who was entrusted<br/>
+with her education: she is therefore requested to<br/>
+conceal herself no longer, lest her youth, beauty,<br/>
+and inexperience of the town should betray her<br/>
+innocence into those very snares she fears to fall<br/>
+into.'</p>
+<p>The very beginning of this paragraph gave her a conjecture it was meant
+for no other than herself; and the more she read, the more she grew
+convinced, of it.—It must be so, cryed she; every word,—every
+circumstance confirms it.—How unhappy am I that I cannot return so
+perfect an affection!—Instead of detesting my ingratitude, he only fears
+I should receive the punishment of it.—What man but Dorilaus would behave
+thus to the creature of his benevolence?—If I have any merits, do not I
+owe them to his goodness?—My brother and myself, two poor exposed and
+wretched foundlings, what but his bounty rear'd us to what we are?—Hard
+fate!—unlucky passion that drives me from his presence and protection.</p>
+<p>Yet, would she say again, if he has indeed subdued that passion;—if he
+resolves to think of me as before he entertained it; if I were certain he
+would receive me as a child, how great would be, the blessing!</p>
+<p>This confederation had so much effect on her, that she was half
+determined to comply with the advertisement; but when she remembered to
+have read that where love is sincere and violent, it requires a length of
+time to be erased, and that those possessed of it are incapable of knowing
+even their own strength, and, as he had said to her himself, <i>that there
+was no answering for the consequences,</i> she grew instantly of another
+mind, and thought that putting herself again into the power of such a
+passion was running too great a hazard.</p>
+<p>The continual agitations of her mind, joined to want of air, a quite
+different way of life, and perhaps fitting more closely to work than she
+had been accustomed, threw her at length into a kind of languishing
+indisposition, which, tho' it did not confine her to her bed, occasioned a
+loss of appetite, and frequent faintings, which were very alarming to her.
+Mrs. C——ge was extremely concerned to observe this change in her, and
+would have the opinion of her own physician, who said that she had
+symptoms of an approaching consumption, and that it was absolutely
+necessary she should be removed into the country for some time.</p>
+<p>Louisa readily complied with this advice, not only because she imagined
+it might be of service for the recovery of her health, but also as it
+furnished her with a pretence for leaving mrs. C——ge's house, to which
+she was determined to return no more as a boarder. The good woman with
+whom she had lodged at first recommended her to a friend of her's at
+Windsor, where she immediately went, and was very kindly received.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. IV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa becomes acquainted with a lady of quality, part of whose
+adventures are also related, and goes to travel with her</i>.</p>
+<p>Change of place affords but small relief to those whose distempers are
+in the mind: Louisa carried with her too many perplexing thoughts to be
+easily shook off; tho' the queen and court being then at Windsor, she had
+the opportunity of seeing a great many of the gay world pass daily by her
+window.—There also lodged in the same house with her a young widow of
+quality, who was visited by persons of the first rank; but as she was not
+of a condition to make one in any of these conversations, she reaped no
+other satisfaction from them than what the eye afforded.</p>
+<p>As she was not, however, of a temper to indulge melancholy, she made it
+her endeavour to banish, as much as possible, all ideas which were
+displeasing from her mind: to this end, a fine harpsicord happening to
+stand in the dining-room, whenever the lady was abroad, she went in and
+diverted herself with playing. She was one day entertaining the woman of
+the house with a tune, which she accompanied with her voice, when the lady
+returning sooner than was expected, and hearing the instrument before she
+came up stairs, would needs know who it was had been making use of it; for
+Louisa hurried out of the room before she came in: the landlady, as there
+was no occasion to disguise the truth, told her that it was a young woman,
+who not being very well, had come down into the country for air.</p>
+<p>She has had an excellent education, I am certain, said the lady, (who
+henceforward we shall call Melanthe) for in my life I never heard any body
+play or sing better:—I must be acquainted with her; on which the other
+said she would let her know the honour she intended her.</p>
+<p>That very evening, as great ladies no sooner think of any thing but
+they must have it performed, was Louisa sent for into her apartment; and
+her countenance and behaviour so well seconded the good impression her
+skill in music had begun, that Melanthe became charm'd with her, and from
+that time obliged her to come to her every morning; and whenever she was
+without company, made her dine and sup with her. Being curious to know her
+circumstances, Louisa made no scruple of acquainting her with the truth,
+only instead of relating how she had been exposed in her infancy, said,
+that having the misfortune to be deprived of her parents, it was her
+intention to wait on a lady, and till she heard of one who would accept
+her service, she had work'd at her needle.</p>
+<p>Melanthe then asked if she would live with her; to which the other
+gladly answering, she should think herself happy in such a lady; but you
+must go abroad then, said she, for I am weary of England, and am preparing
+to travel: as it is a route of pleasure only, I shall stay just as long as
+I find any thing new and entertaining in one place, then go to another
+till I am tired of that, and so on, I know not how long; for unless my
+mind alters very much, I shall not come back in some years.</p>
+<p>Louisa was perfectly transported to hear her say this; she had a great
+desire to see foreign parts, and thought she never could have a better
+opportunity: she expressed the pleasure she should take in attending her
+wherever she went with so much politeness and sincerity, that Melanthe
+told her, it should be her own fault if she ever quitted her, and withal
+assured her, she never would treat her in any other manner than a
+companion, and that tho' she would make her a yearly allowance for cloaths
+and card-money, yet she would expect no other service from her than
+fidelity to her secrets, and affection to her person.</p>
+<p>From the moment this agreement was made, the young Louisa regained her
+complection and her appetite; and being now initiated into the family of
+this lady, had no longer any care to take than to oblige her, a thing not
+difficult, Melanthe being good-natured, and strongly prepossessed in
+favour of her new friend, for so she vouchsafed to call her, and to use
+her accordingly.</p>
+<p>As a proof of it, she made her in a very short time the confident of
+her dearest secrets: they were one day sitting together, when accidentally
+some mention was made of the power of love. You are too young, Louisa,
+said Melanthe, to have experienced the wonderful effects of that passion
+in yourself, and therefore cannot be expected to have much compassion for
+what it can inflict on others.</p>
+<p>Indeed, madam, answered she, tho' I never have yet seen a man who gave
+me a moment's pain on that score, yet I believe there are no emotions
+whatever so strong as those of love, and that it is capable of influencing
+people of the best sense to things which in their nature they are most
+averse to.</p>
+<p>Well, my dear, resumed the other, since I find you have so just a
+notion of it, I will confide in your discretion so far as to let you know,
+that but for an ungrateful man, I had not looked on my native country as a
+desart, and resolved to seek a cure for my ill-treated and abused
+tenderness in foreign parts.</p>
+<p>My quality, continued she, I need not inform you of; you have doubtless
+heard that my family yields to few in antiquity, and that there is an
+estate belonging to it sufficient to support the dignity of its title;
+but my father having many children, could not give very great portions to
+the daughters: I was therefore disposed of, much against my inclinations,
+to a nobleman, whom my unlucky charms had so much captivated as to make
+him not only take me with no other dowry than my cloaths and jewels, but
+also to settle a large jointure upon me, which, he being dead, I at
+present enjoy. I cannot say that all the obligations he laid upon me could
+engage a reciprocal regard:—I behaved with indifference to him while
+living, and little lamented him when dead: not that I was prepossessed in
+favour of any other man;—my heart, entirely free, was reserved to be the
+conquest of the too charming perfidious Henricus, who arriving soon after
+my lord's decease, and bringing with him all the accomplishments which
+every different court he had visited could afford, join'd to the most
+enchanting person nature ever formed, soon made me know I was not that
+insensible creature I had thought myself.</p>
+<p>I happened to be at court when he came to kiss her majesty's hand on
+his return; and whether it was that my eyes testified too much the
+admiration this first sight of him struck me with, or that he really
+discovered something more attractive in me than any lady in the presence I
+know not, but he seemed to distinguish me in a particular manner, and I
+heard him say to my lord G——n in a whisper, that I was the finest woman
+he had ever seen; but what gave me more pleasure than even this praise,
+was an agreement I heard made between him and the same lord to go that
+evening to a raffle at mrs. C—rt-s—r's. I was one of those who had put
+in, tho' if I had not, I should certainly, have gone for a second sight of
+him, who when he went out of the drawing-room seemed to have left me but
+half myself.</p>
+<p>In fine, I went, and had there wanted any thing to have entirely
+vanquished me, my conqueror's manner of address had done it with a form
+less agreeable.—O Louisa, pursued she with a sigh, if you have never
+seen or heard the charming Henricus, you can have no notion of what is
+excellent in man; such flowing wit;—such softness in his voice and
+air;—but there is no describing what he is. He seemed all transport at
+meeting me there; among a number of ladies I alone engrossed him: he
+scarce spoke to any other; and being so fortunate to win the raffle,
+which was a fine inlaid India cabinet, instead of sending it to his own
+house, he privately ordered his servant to leave it at mine, lord G——n
+having, as he afterwards told me, informed him where I lived, and also all
+the particulars he wanted to know concerning me.</p>
+<p>I was prodigiously surprized when I came home and found the Cabinet,
+which my woman imagined I had won by its being brought thither. It was
+indeed a piece of gallantry I had no reason to expect from one so perfect
+a stranger to me; and this, joined with the many complaisant things he
+said to me at mrs. C—rt-f—r's, flattered my vanity enough to make me
+think he was no less charmed with me than I too plainly found I was with
+him. I slept little that night, and pretty early the next morning received
+a billet from him to this effect: <br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+'I thought the cabinet we raffled for was more<br/>
+properly the furniture of a lady's closet than<br/>
+mine, especially one who must daily receive a<br/>
+great number of such epistles as it was doubtless<br/>
+intended by the maker to contain: happy should<br/>
+I think myself if any thing of mine might find<br/>
+room among those which, for their wit and elegance,<br/>
+may be more worthy of preferring, tho'<br/>
+none can be for their sincerity more so than those<br/>
+which are dictated by the eternally devoted heart of<br/>
+<br/>
+HENRICUS.'</p>
+<p>You cannot imagine, my dear Louisa, how delighted I was with these few
+lines; I enclosed them indeed in the cabinet given me by the author of
+them, but laid up their meaning in my heart:—I was quite alert the whole
+day, but infinitely more so, when in the evening my admired Henricus made
+me a visit introduced by lord H——, who had been one of my late husband's
+particular friends, and had ever kept a good correspondence with me.</p>
+<p>Henricus took, not the least notice either of the cabinet or letter
+before him; and as I imagined he had his reasons for it, I too was silent
+on that head; he took the opportunity, however, while lord H—— was
+speaking to a young lady who happened to be with me, to ask permission to
+wait on me with the hope of being received on his own score as he was now
+on that of his friend. I told him that merit, such as his, was sufficient
+to recommend him any where; and, besides, I had an obligation to him which
+I ought to acknowledge. This was all either of us had time to say; but it
+was enough to make me convinced he desired a more particular conversation,
+and him, that it would not be unwelcome to me.</p>
+<p>Thus began an acquaintance equally fatal to my peace of mind and
+reputation; and having said that, it would be needless to repeat the
+circumstances of it, therefore shall only tell you I was so infatuated
+with my passion, that I never gave myself the trouble to examine into the
+nature of his pretensions, and lull'd with the vows he made of everlasting
+love, resented not that he forbore pressing to that ceremony which could
+alone ensure it:—yes, my Louisa, I will not wrong him so far as to say
+he deceived me in this point; for tho' he protested with the most solemn
+imprecations that he would never address any either woman than myself, yet
+he never once mentioned marriage to me.—Alass! he too well saw into my
+heart, and that all my faculties were too much his to be able to refuse
+him any thing:—even so it proved;—he triumphed over all in my power to
+yield;—nay, was so far subdued, that I neither regretted my loss, nor
+used any endeavours to conceal it;—vain of being his at any rate, I
+thought his love more glory to me than either fame or virtue; and while I
+was known to enjoy the one, despised whatever censures I incurred for
+parting with the other:—in the mall, the play-house, the ring, at Bath or
+Tunbridge, he was always with me; nor would any thing indeed have been a
+diversion to me had he been absent.</p>
+<p>For upwards of a year I had no reason to complain of his want of
+assiduity to me, tho' I have since heard even in that time he had other
+amours with women who carried them on with more prudence than I was
+mistress of; but I had afterwards a stabbing proof of his insincerity and
+inconstancy.</p>
+<p>Perceiving a great alteration in his behaviour, that he visited me less
+frequently, and when he came, the ardours he was accustomed to treat me
+with still more and more languid and enforced, I upbraided him in terms
+which, tho' they shewed more love than resentment, and had he retained any
+tolerable remains of tenderness for me, must have been rather obliging
+than the contrary, he affected to take extremely ill, and told me plainly,
+that nothing was so dear to him as his peace,—that he was not of a temper
+to endure reproaches, and that, if I desired the continuance of our amour,
+I must be satisfied with him as he was. These cool, and indeed insolent
+replies made me almost distracted; and beginning to suspect he had some
+new engagement, I talked to him in a manner as if I had been assured of
+it:—he, perhaps, imagining it was so, made no efforts to cure my
+jealousy, but behaved with so cruel an indifference as confirmed my
+apprehensions.</p>
+<p>Resolving to be convinced whether I really had any rival or not, I
+employed spies to observe where-ever he went, and to whom; but alass,
+there required little pains to acquire the intelligence I fought.—I was
+soon informed that he was every day with the daughter of a little
+mechanic;—that he made her very rich presents, procured a commission in
+the army for one of her brothers, and in fine, that he was as much devoted
+to her as a man of his inconstant temper could be to any woman.</p>
+<p>How severe a mortification was this to my pride! but it had this good
+attending it, that it very much abated my love:—to be abandoned for so
+mean a creature, and who had nothing but youth and a tolerable face to
+recommend her, shewed such a want of taste as well as gratitude, as
+rendered despicable in my eyes what had lately engrossed all my love and
+admiration.—The moment I received the information I sent for him;—and
+forcing my countenance to a serenity my heart was a stranger to, told him
+it was only to take a last leave of a person whom I had been so far
+mistaken in as to think deserving my affection: that I desired to see him
+once more, but having now seen my error, desired he would desist his
+visits for the future. He asked me with the same calmness he had lately
+behaved with, what whim I had got in my head now, I, who had before
+determined not to feed my rival's pride by shewing any jealousy of her,
+only replied, that as amours, such as ours had been, must have an end some
+time or other,—I thought none could be more proper than the present,
+because I believed both of us could do it without pain.</p>
+<p>Answer for yourself, madam, cried he with some emotion, for I could
+perceive my behaviour had a little flung his vanity; and resolute to give
+him in my turn all the mortification in my power, nay, said I with a
+disdainful toss of my head, I do not enquire into your sentiments,—it is
+sufficient mine are to break entirely off with you;—neither is it any
+concern to me how you may resent this alteration in my conduct, or dispose
+of yourself hereafter; but I once more assure you, with my usual
+frankness, that I now can see none of those perfections my foolish fancy
+formerly found in you, and cannot be complaisant enough to counterfeit a
+tenderness I neither feel nor think you worthy of.</p>
+<p>The surprize he was in kept him silent for some moments; but recovering
+himself as well as he could, he told me, that if the levity of my nature
+had made me cease to love him, he could not have expected endearments
+should be converted into affronts; that if I was determined to see him no
+more he must submit, and should endeavour to make himself as easy as he
+could under the misfortune.</p>
+<p>These last words were uttered with a kind of sneer, which was very
+provoking, however, I restrained my passion during the little time he
+stayed; but as soon as I found myself alone gave it vent in tears and
+exclamations,—since which I have been mere at peace within myself; for
+tho' I cannot say I hate him, I am now far from loving him, and hope
+that time and absence may bring me to a perfect indifference.</p>
+<p>Thus, Louisa, continued she, you see the beginning and end of an
+adventure which has made some noise in town, to be out of which I have
+taken a resolution to travel till the whole shall be forgotten, and I
+have entirely rooted out of my heart all manner of consideration for this
+ungrateful man.</p>
+<p>Louisa thanked her for the condescension me had made her in entrusting
+her with so important a secret, and said every thing she could in praise
+of the resolution she had taken to leave England for a time, not only
+because it was exactly conformable to her own desires, but also that she
+thought it so laudable in itself. Melanthe then assured her that she was
+not capable of changing her mind in this particular, and that her equipage
+was getting ready at London for that purpose, so that she believed they
+should embark in a few days. Louisa, on hearing this, said, that she must
+then provide herself with some things it would be necessary for her to
+have in order to appear in the station her ladyship was pleased to place
+her; but the other, who, as may be seen by her history, never preserved a
+medium in any thing, would not suffer her to be at the least expence on
+that account, but took the care of furnishing her with every thing on
+herself; and accordingly sent a man and horse to town directly to her
+mercer's, draper's, milliner's, and other tradesmen, with orders to send
+down silks, laces, hollands, and whatever else was requisite; which being
+brought, were put to be made fit for wearing by workwomen at Windsor; so
+that now our Louisa made as good a figure, and had as great a variety of
+habits as when under the guardianship of Dorilaus, and, to complete her
+happiness, this new benefactress grew every day more, and more delighted
+with her company.</p>
+<p>All being now prepared, they came to London, where they lay but one
+night before they took shipping for Helvoetsluys in Holland, where, being
+safely landed, they proceeded to Utrecht, and so to Aix-la-chappelle;
+there they stayed some weeks for the sake of the waters, air, and good
+company; and Louisa thought it so pleasant, that she would have been glad
+not to have removed for some time longer; but Melanthe was yet restless in
+her mind, and required frequent change of place. Here it was, however,
+that Louisa thought she might venture to write to Dorilaus, to ease him of
+that kind concern she doubted not but he was in for her welfare, by the
+advertisement already mentioned in the Gazette. The purport of her letter
+was as follows: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Ever Honoured Sir</i>,<br/>
+'Child of your bounty as I am, I flatter myself<br/>
+that, in spight of my enforc'd disobedience,<br/>
+it would be a trouble to you to hear I should<br/>
+do any thing unworthy of that education you were<br/>
+pleased to bestow on me: I therefore take the liberty<br/>
+of acquainting you, that heaven has raised<br/>
+me a protectress in a lady of quality with whom<br/>
+I now am, as you will see by the date of this, at<br/>
+Aix-la-chappelle. As all the favours I receive<br/>
+from her, or all the good that shall happen during<br/>
+my whole life is, and will be entirely owing<br/>
+to you as the fountain-head, it will be always my<br/>
+inclination, as well as duty, to pay you the tribute<br/>
+of grateful thanks.—Poor recompence,<br/>
+alas, for all you have done for me! yet those,<br/>
+with my incessant prayers to heaven, are all in<br/>
+the power of<br/>
+<i>Your most dutiful</i><br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.' </p>
+<p>She took no notice of the advertisement, not only as she could not be
+positive it related to herself, as also because she thought, if he were
+certain she had read it, he might resent her not answering it, as
+discovering a too great diffidence of his honour. She added, however, a
+postscript, entreating him to let her brother know, that whatever
+happened, he should have no reason to find fault with her conduct.</p>
+<p>After they left Aix-la-chappelle, they took bye roads to avoid the
+armies; yet notwithstanding all their care, they now and then met parties
+who were out on foraging, but as it happened, they were always under the
+conduct of officers who prevented any ill accident, so that our travellers
+met with no manner of interruption, but arrived safely at the magnificent
+city of Vienna, where was at that time an extreme gay court, affording
+every thing capable of diverting a much more settled melancholy than
+either Melanthe or her fair companion were possessed of.</p>
+<p>The arch-dutchesses, Mary Elizabeth, and Mary Anna Josepha, afterward
+queen of Portugal, had frequent balls and entertainments in their
+different drawing-rooms; to all which Melanthe, being a stranger and a
+woman of quality, was invited: she kept her promise with Louisa; and
+treating her as a young lady, whose friendship for her, and a desire of
+seeing the world had engaged to accompany her, she was received and
+respected as such; and by this means had an opportunity of shewing the
+skill she had in dancing, singing, music, and indeed all the
+accomplishments that a woman born and educated to the best expectations,
+is usually instructed in. As neither her lady nor herself understood the
+German language, and she spoke infinitely the best French, her
+conversation was the most agreeable, which, joined with a most engaging
+manner, and a peculiar sweetness in her voice, attracted all those
+civilities which the rank of the other demanded.</p>
+<p>Possessed of so many charms, it would have been strange if, in a city
+throng'd like Vienna with young noblemen, who were continually coming from
+all parts of the empire, she had lived without some who pretended to
+somewhat more than mere admiration; but her heart had not refused the
+worthy Dorilaus to become the conquest of a German; nor was it here she
+was ordained to experience those anxieties in herself, she could but
+imperfectly conceive by the description she had from others.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, however, whose sole aim was to drive all perplexing thoughts
+from her mind, encouraged a great number of visitors, so that her lodgings
+seemed a perfect theatre of gallantry; and Louisa having her share in all
+the amusements this lady prepared for the reception of those that came to
+see her, or were contrived for her entertainment by others, past her time
+in the most gay and agreeable manner imaginable, and by this means
+acquired the knowledge of almost the only thing she before was ignorant
+in, how to receive a multiplicity of company, yet to behave so is each
+should imagine themselves most welcome;—to seem perfectly open, without
+discovering any thing improper to be revealed;—to use all decent freedoms
+with the men, yet not encourage the least from them, and to seem to make a
+friend of every woman she conversed with, without putting truth in
+any;—and in fine, all the little policies which make up the art of what
+is called a polite address, and which is not to be attained without an
+acquaintance with the court and great world.</p>
+<p>This, I say, our amiable foundling was now well vers'd in, and
+practised among those who she found made a practice of it; but yet
+retained the same sincerity of mind, love of virtue, and detestation of
+vice, she brought with her from the house of Dorilaus:—neither was her
+youth too much dazled with the exterior splendor she beheld; and tho' she
+was well enough pleased with it, yet it did not in the least take her off
+from the duties of religion, or inspire her with any ambitious or aspiring
+wishes to become what the remembrance of what she was forbid any probable
+expectation of. She knew the present fashion of her life was not an
+assured settlement, and therefore set not her heart upon it. Few at her
+years would have had the like prudence, or in time armed themselves, as
+she did, against any change that might befal her.</p>
+<p>In this happy situation let us leave her for a while: the young Horatio
+claims his share of attention; and it is time to see what encouragement
+and success his martial ardor met with on the banks of the Danube.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. V.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio's reception by the officers of the army; his behaviour in
+the battle; his being taken prisoner by the French; his treatment among
+them, and many other particulars.</i></p>
+<p>The extreme graceful person of Horatio, his youth, handsome
+equipage, and the letters sent by Dorilaus to several of the principal
+officers in his favour, engaged him a reception answerable to his wishes:
+but none was of greater service than the recommendation he had to colonel
+Brindfield, who being in great favour with the duke of Marlborough, was
+highly respected by the whole army. This gentleman made him dine
+frequently with him, and testified the regard he had for Dorilaus, by
+doing all the good offices he could to a youth whom he perceived by his
+letter he had a great concern for. He not only introduced him to the
+acquaintance of many officers of condition, but took an opportunity of
+presenting him to the duke himself, giving at the same time his grace
+an account that he was a gentleman whose inclinations to arms, and the
+honour of serving under his grace, had made him renounce all other
+advantages for the hope of doing something worthy of his favour. The duke
+looked all the time he was speaking very attentively on the young Horatio,
+and finding something in his air that corroborated the colonel's
+description, was pleased to say, that he was charm'd with his early thirst
+after same; and then turning toward him, you will soon, pursued he, have
+an opportunity of seeing how the face of war looks, near at hand:—I can
+tell you, that you must not always expect smiles. No, my lord, replied he,
+without being at all daunted at the presence of so great a man; but where
+we love all countenances are agreeable.</p>
+<p>He arrived indeed opportunely to be a witness of the dangers of that
+glorious campaign which brought such shame to the French, such honour to
+the English, and such real advantages to the empire. Prince Eugene of
+Savoy, and prince Lewis of Baden were come to the duke's quarters, which
+were then at Mondesheim, to consult on proper operations; the result was,
+that the duke and prince Lewis should join armies, and command each day
+alternately, and that prince Eugene should head a separate army and repair
+towards Philipsburg, to defend the passage of the Rhine, the lines of
+Stolhoffen, and the country of Wirtenberg.</p>
+<p>The two armies joined at Westerstretton, thence proceeded by easy
+marches towards Donawert, between which and Scellenberg the enemy was
+encamped. Fatigued as they were, the duke made them pass over a little
+river and endeavour to force the intrenchments; which enterprize
+succeeded, notwithstanding all the disadvantages the confederate armies
+were in, and the others were obliged to retire with great precipitation,
+many of whom were drowned in endeavouring to pass the Danube.</p>
+<p>In this action was our young soldier unlisted, and had the glory to be
+signalized by two remarkable accidents; one was, that pressing among the
+foremost in this hazardous attempt, he had his hat taken off by a cannon
+ball; and the other was, that seeing a standard about to be taken by the
+enemy, the person who carried it happening to be kill'd, he ran among
+those who were carrying it away, and being seconded by some others,
+retrieved that badge of English honour; and as this was done in sight of
+the duke, he rode up to him directly and presented it to him. Take it for
+your pains, cried he, you have ventured hard, and well deserve the prize.
+There was no time for thanks; the duke, who was almost every where at
+once, was immediately gone where he found his presence necessary, and
+Horatio returned to take the place of the dead cornet, doubly animated by
+the encouragement he had received.</p>
+<p>This victory opening a way into the elector of Bavaria's dominions,
+that poor country was terribly ravaged, no less than 300 towns, villages
+and castles being utterly consumed by a detachment of horse and dragoons
+the duke sent for that purpose. Some old officers told Horatio that now
+would be the time to make his fortune if he went with these squadrons,
+there being many rich things which would fall to the share of the
+plunderers; to which he answered, that he came to fight for the honour of
+his country, and not to rob for its disgrace. This they laughed at, and
+endeavoured to make him sensible, that the taking away an enemy's treasure
+was to take away their strength; but all they could say was ineffectual;
+he was not to be perswaded out of what he thought reason and justice: and
+this conversation being afterward repeated to the duke, he smil'd and
+said, he was yet too young to know the value of money.</p>
+<p>After this, prince Lewis of Baden dividing from the duke, in order to
+undertake the siege of Ingoldstadt, our young cornet attended his grace to
+the relief of prince Eugene, who expected to be attacked by the united
+army of Bavarians and French, then encamped near Hockstadt.</p>
+<p>It would be needless to give any description of this famous battle, few
+of my readers but must be acquainted with it, so I shall only say, that
+among the number of those few prisoners the French had to boast of in
+attonement for so great a defeat, was the young brave Horatio, who fell to
+the lot of the baron de la Valiere, nephew to the marquis of Sille. This
+nobleman being extremely taken with his person and behaviour, treated him
+in the politest manner; and tho' he carried him with him into France,
+assured him, that it was more for the pleasure of entertaining him there
+than any other consideration. Horatio was not much afflicted at this
+misfortune, because it gave him an opportunity of seeing a country he had
+heard so much commended, and also to make himself master of a language,
+which, tho' he understood, he spoke but imperfectly.</p>
+<p>The baron was not only one of the most gallant, but also one of the
+best humoured men in the world; he spared nothing during the whole time
+they tarried in his quarters, nor in their journey to Paris, which might
+contribute to make his prisoner easy under his present circumstances; and
+among other things, often said to him, if you and some others have fallen
+under the common chance of war, you have yet the happiness of knowing your
+army in general has been victorious, and that, there are infinitely a
+greater number of ours who, against their will, must see England, than,
+there are of yours conducted into France.</p>
+<p>On their arrival, Horatio wrote an account to Dorilaus of all had
+happened to him, not doubting but he would use his interest to have him
+either mentioned when there should come an exchange of prisoners, or that
+he would randsom him himself; but receiving no answer, he concluded his
+letter, by some accident, had miscarried, and sent another, but that
+meeting the same fate as the former, he wrote a third, accompanied with
+one to his sister directed to the boarding-school, where he imagined she
+still was: to this last, after some time, he had the following return from
+the governess:<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+'A letter directed for miss Louisa coming to<br/>
+my house, I was in debate with myself<br/>
+what to do with it, that young lady having been<br/>
+gone from me last September, since which time<br/>
+I have never heard any thing of her:—at last I<br/>
+sent it to Dorilaus's country seat by a messenger,<br/>
+who brought it to me again, with intelligence<br/>
+that he was gone with some friends into the north<br/>
+of Ireland, and that it was probable they had<br/>
+taken miss with them:—I then thought proper<br/>
+to open it, believing she had no secrets I might<br/>
+not be entrusted with, and finding it came from<br/>
+you, could do no less than give you this information<br/>
+to prevent your being under any surprize<br/>
+for not receiving answers to your letters. I am<br/>
+sorry to find by yours that you have had such ill<br/>
+success in your first campaign; but would not<br/>
+have you be cast down, since you need not doubt<br/>
+but on the return of Dorilaus you will have remittances<br/>
+for your ransom, or whatever else you<br/>
+may have occasion for.'<br/>
+<i>I am</i>, SIR, <i>Your most humble and obedient Servant,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+A. TRAINWELL. </p>
+<p>This letter made him perfectly contented; he had no reason to question
+the continuance of Dorilaus's goodness to him, nor that he should attend
+this new proof of it any longer than the return of that gentleman to
+England should make him know the occasion he now had for it. He therefore
+had no anxious thoughts to interrupt the pleasures the place he was in
+afforded in such variety; he was every evening with the baron, either at
+court, the opera, the comedy, or some other gay scene of entertainment;
+was introduced to the best company; and his young heart, charm'd with the
+politeness and gallantry of that nation, and the little vanity to which a
+person of such early years is incident, being flattered with the
+complaisance he was treated with, gave him in a short time a very strong
+affection for them; but there was yet another and more powerful motive
+which rendered his captivity not only pleasing, but almost destroyed in
+him an inclination ever to see his native country again.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere had long been passionately in love with a young
+lady, who was one of the maids of honour to king James's queen: he went
+almost every day to St. Germains, in order to prosecute his addresses,
+and frequently took Horatio with him. The motive of his first introducing
+him to that court was, perhaps, the vanity of shewing him that no reverse
+of fate could make the French regardless of what was due to royalty, since
+the Chevalier St. George seem'd to want no requisite of majesty but the
+power; but he afterwards found the pleasure he took in those visits
+infinitely surpassed what he could have expected, and that his heart had
+an attachment, which made him no sooner quit that palace than he would ask
+with impatience when they should go thither again. The baron had a great
+deal of penetration; and as those who feel the power of love in themselves
+can easily perceive the progress it makes in others, a very few visits
+confirmed him that Horatio had found something there more attractive than
+all he could behold elsewhere: nor was he long at a loss to discover,
+among the number or beauties which composed the trains of the queen and
+princess, which of them it was that had laid his prisoner under a more
+lasting captivity than war had done.</p>
+<p>Princess Louisa Maria Teresa, daughter of the late king James, was then
+but in her thirteenth year; the ladies who attended her were all of them
+much of the same age; and to shew the respect the French had for this
+royal family, tho' in misfortunes, were also the daughters of persons
+whose birth and fortune might have done honour to the service of the
+greatest empress in the world; nor were any of them wanting in those
+perfections which attract the heart beyond the pomp of blood or titles;
+but she who had influenced that of our Horatio, was likewise in the
+opinion of those, who felt not her charms in the same degree he did,
+allowed to excel her fair companions in every captivating grace, and to
+yield in beauty to none but the princess herself, who was esteemed a
+Prodigy. This amiable lady was called Charlotta de Palfoy, only daughter
+to the baron of that name; and having from her most early years discovered
+a genius above what is ordinarily found in her sex, had been educated by
+her indulgent parents in such a manner, as nature left nothing for want of
+the improvements of art; yet did not all the accomplishments, she was
+mistress of give her the least air of haughtiness; on the contrary, there
+was a certain sweetness of temper in her which gave a double charm to
+every thing she said or did: she was all affability, courtesy and
+chearfulness; she could not therefore avoid treating so agreeable a
+stranger as Horatio with all imaginable marks of civility; but she had
+been a very small time acquainted with him before her liking ripened into
+a kind of tenderness little inferior to what he was possessed of for her;
+and tho' both were then too young to be able to judge of the nature of
+this growing inclination, yet they found they loved without knowing to
+what end.</p>
+<p>As both the Chevalier St. George and the princess his sister were
+instructed in the English language, and besides many of their court were
+natives of Great Britain, whose loyalty had made them follow the exil'd
+monarch, the French belonging to them had also an ambition to speak in the
+same dialect: mademoiselle Charlotta being but lately come among them had
+not yet attained the proper accent, any more than Horatio had that of the
+French; so they agreed that to improve each other in the different
+languages, he should always speak to her in French, and she should answer
+him in English. This succeeded not only for the purpose it was intended,
+but likewise drew on a greater intimacy between them than might otherwise
+have happened, at least in so short a time.</p>
+<p>The baron having a real friendship for Horatio, rejoiced to find he had
+so powerful an attachment to continue among them, and without taking any
+notice how far he saw into his sentiments, encouraged his visits at St.
+Germains all he could. Thus indulged in every thing he wished, he began
+insensibly to lose all desires of returning to England, and receiving no
+letters either from Dorilaus or his sister, was as it were weaned from
+that affection he had formerly bore to them, and in the room of that the
+new friendships he was every day contracting took up his mind.</p>
+<p>He was indeed used with so much love and respect by people in the most
+eminent stations, to whom the baron had introduced him, that it would have
+been ungrateful in him not to have returned it with the greatest
+good-will. Expressing one day some surprize at being so far forgotten by
+his friends in England, de la Valiere told him that he would not have him
+look on himself as any other than a guest in France, and that if he chose
+to quit that country, he should not only be at his liberty to return to
+England whenever he pleased, but also should be furnished with a sum
+sufficient for the expences of his journey; but added, that the offer he
+now made of depriving himself of so agreeable a companion was a piece of
+self-denial, than which there could not be a greater proof of a
+disinterested regard.</p>
+<p>Horatio replied in the manner this generosity demanded, and said, that
+if there was any thing irksome to him in France, it was only his inability
+of returning the favours he had received: believe me, sir, pursued he,
+were I master of a fortune sufficient to put me above the necessity of
+receiving the obligations I now do, it would not be in the power of all I
+left in England to prevail on me to return;—it is here, and in the
+society of that company I at present, thro' your means, enjoy, that I
+would wish to pass my whole life.</p>
+<p>The baron then told him he would find a way to make all things easy to
+him, and accordingly went the same day to monsieur the prince of Conti, to
+whom he gave such an advantageous description of the courage and
+accomplishments of the English cornet, and the inclination he had to stay
+among them, that his highness told the baron, that he might acquaint him
+from him, that if he were willing to serve under him he should have a
+commission; or, if he rather chose a civil employment, he would use his
+interest to procure him such a one as might afford both honour and
+profit.</p>
+<p>This the baron did not fail to communicate immediately to Horatio, who,
+charm'd with the generosity both of the one and the other, broke out into
+the utmost encomiums of that nation:—sure, said he, the French are a
+people born to inspire and instruct virtue and benevolence to all the
+kingdoms in the world! After the first raptures of his gratitude were
+over, being pressed by the baron to let him know which of the prince's
+offers he would chuse to accept; alas! replied he, this is a kind of an
+unfortunate dilemma I am in;—my inclinations are for the army, and it
+would be the height of my ambition to serve under such generals as the
+French; but it would be unnatural in me to draw my sword against the land
+which gave me being: O would to God! continued he, there were an
+opportunity for me to do it in any other cause! how gladly would I leave
+the best part of my blood to shew the sense I have of the generosity I
+have experienced.</p>
+<p>The baron had nothing to offer in opposition to a sentiment which he
+found had so much of honour in it, and therefore acquainted the prince
+that he chose to accept of his highness's favour in a civil employment; on
+which he was ordered to attend his levee the next day.</p>
+<p>His good friend accompanied him, and having presented him with the
+forms usual on such occasions, the prince received him very graciously,
+and was pleased to ask him several questions concerning the government of
+England at that time, the battle in which he had been taken, and many
+other things, to all which the young Horatio answered with so much
+discretion and politeness, as made the prince say to the baron, you have
+not flattered this gentleman in your description of him; for tho' I
+believe your friendship ready enough to give a just idea of him, yet, I
+allure you, his own behaviour is his best recommendation, and well
+entitles him to more than I find it in my power to do for him at present.
+I have been thinking for you, sir, continued he, turning to Horatio, and
+imagine that the employment I have found you will not be disagreeable to
+you:—one of the gentlemen of the bed-chamber to the Chevalier St. George
+being dead, there is a vacancy, which I will make interest shall be filled
+by no other than yourself;—you seem to be much of the same age with him,
+and I dare say he will be extremely pleased in the choice I make of you to
+be near him:—it is not indeed, added he, a place of so much advantage as
+I could wish, but there is a handsome pension annexed to it, which, with
+the honour, will, I believe, content you till something better presents
+itself.</p>
+<p>From the first mention the prince made of the post he had found for
+him, the heart of Horatio leap'd in his breast with an agitation he had
+never felt before: the thoughts of living at St. Germains in the same
+palace with mademoiselle Charlotta so transported him, that he scarce knew
+what he said; and the thanks he gave the prince were expressed with such
+hyperboles of gratitude, as made his highness think he had a higher idea
+of the employment than it indeed deserved; but the baron who knew the
+motive, and could not help smiling within himself, to prevent any other
+from suspecting it, however, told the prince, that it was not to be
+wondered at that he testified so high a satisfaction, since he was now to
+serve a family he had by nature a strong attachment to, and at the same
+time continue in a country he liked much better than his own.</p>
+<p>Horatio by this time having a little recovered himself, and sensible he
+had gone rather too far, seconded what the baron had said, and no more
+observations were made on it.</p>
+<p>That same evening, the prince having made it his request, was Horatio
+permitted to kiss the hand of the Chevalier St. George, and the ensuing
+day took possession of the apartment appropriated to the office bestowed
+on him.</p>
+<p>After having received the congratulations of a whole court, who
+testified a great deal of satisfaction in having him among them, and paid
+his compliments in a particular manner to mademoiselle Charlotta, he took
+abundance of pleasure in viewing all the apartments of a palace famous for
+the birth of one of the greatest monarchs of the age, and for being the
+asylum of the distrest royal family of England: when his attendance on his
+master gave him leisure, he frequently passed many hours together in a
+closet, where he was told the late king James used to retire every day to
+pray for the prosperity of that people who had abjur'd him. Young as
+Horatio was, and gay by nature, he sometimes loved to indulge the most
+serious meditations; and this place, as well as the condition of those he
+served, remonstrating to him the instability of all human greatness, he
+made this general reflection, that there was nothing truly valuable but
+virtue, because the owner could be deprived of that only by himself, and
+not by either the fraud or force of others.</p>
+<p>Indeed the behaviour of all the persons who composed this court could
+not but inspire those who saw it with sentiments of the nature I have
+described: the queen herself, tho' of too great a soul to shew any marks
+of repining at her fate, was never seen to smile: even the Chevalier St.
+George and princess had both of them a very serious air, which denoted
+they had reflections more befitting their condition than their years; and
+those about them being most of them persons who had left the greatest part
+of their fortunes as well as kindred either in England, Scotland or
+Ireland, had their own misfortunes as well as that of the royal cause to
+lament, and therefore could not but wear a dejection in their
+countenances: in fine, every thing he saw seem'd an emblem of fallen
+majesty, except on drawing-room nights, and then indeed the splendor of
+Marli and Versailles shone forth at St. Germains in the persons of those
+who came to pay their compliments, among whom were not only the Dauphine
+and all the princes of the blood, but even the grand monarch himself
+thought it not beneath his dignity to give this proof of his respect once
+or twice every week.</p>
+<p>This way of living, and the company he was now associated with, gave
+Horatio a manly way of thinking much sooner than otherwise perhaps he
+might have had, yet did not rob him of his vivacity: some of the queen's
+women, and the young ladies about the princess, particularly mademoiselle
+Charlotta, had a thousand sprightly entertainments among themselves, into
+which he, the baron de la Valiere, and some others who had attachments at
+that court, were always admitted.</p>
+<p>But now the time arrived in which he was to lose the society of that
+valuable friend; the campaign was ready to open, and he was obliged to
+head his troops and follow the marshals de Villars and Marsin into
+Flanders.</p>
+<p>All the conversation turning now on war, those martial inclinations,
+which love and the season of the year had occasioned to lye dormant for a
+while in the bosom of Horatio, now revived in him: he embraced the baron
+at taking leave of him with tears of affection and regret: how cruel is my
+fate, said he, to make me of a nation at enmity with yours, and that I can
+neither fight for you nor against you!</p>
+<p>Well, my dear Horatio, replied the other, France may hereafter have
+occasion to employ your arm where there are no ties of duty to restrain
+you:—in the mean time, continued he with a smile, softer engagements may
+employ your thoughts;—mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy is a conquest
+worth pursuing.</p>
+<p>This was the first hint the baron had ever given him of the discovery
+he had made of his sentiments, and it so much the more surprized him that
+he was told by another what he was not certain of himself:—he knew indeed
+the society of that young lady gave him infinite satisfaction, and that he
+was restless when absent from her; but these words, and the air with which
+they were spoke, shewed him more of his own heart than he had before
+examined into;—he blush'd excessively, and made no answer; on which, you
+have no cause, resumed the baron, to be asham'd of the passion you are
+inspired with, nor troubled at my discovery of it:—I assure you I have
+seen it a long time; and tho' you never honoured me with your confidence
+in that point, have taken all opportunities of doing justice to your merit
+in the conversations I have had with mademoiselle, who I had the
+satisfaction to find was not displeased with what I said upon that head;
+and I flatter myself with having a good account of the progress you have
+made at my return.</p>
+<p>I have too much experience of your friendship and goodness to me,
+replied Horatio, not to assure myself of your doing me all manner of kind
+offices;—I have indeed so great a regard for that lady you mention, that
+I know none of her sex who I so much wish should think well of me, yet is
+she utterly ignorant of the sentiments I have for her; and if I am
+possessed of that passion which they call love, which I protest I am not
+certain of myself, I have never made the least declaration that can give
+her room to imagine any such thing.</p>
+<p>The baron laughed heartily to hear him speak in this manner, and then
+told him there was no need of words to make known an inclination of that
+kind;—it was to be seen in every look and motion of the person inspired
+with it.—Mademoiselle de Palfoy, continued he, young as she is, I dare
+answer has penetration enough to see the conquest she has made, but has
+not yet learned artifice enough to conceal that she is at the same time
+subdued herself;—and if you would take the advice of a person who has
+some experience in these affairs, you will endeavour to engage her to a
+confession before too much observation on the behaviour of others to their
+lovers, shall teach her those imperious airs by which women frequently
+torment the heart that adores them, tho' their own perhaps in doing so
+feels an equal share.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who had seen something like this between the baron and his
+mistress, found a great deal of reason in what he said, and promised to be
+guided by him, especially as he had encouragement enough to hope, by all
+the treatment he had found from Charlotta, that a declaration of love from
+him would not offend her beyond forgiveness.</p>
+<p>From that time forward he therefore began to think in what manner he
+should first disclose the tender secret to the dear object of his
+affections: when absent from her he easily found words, but when present,
+that awe which is inseparable from a real passion struck him entirely
+dumb; and whenever he was about to open his mouth to utter what he
+intended, he had neither words nor voice; and tho' he saw her every day,
+was often alone with her, and had opportunity enough to have revealed
+himself, yet could he not get the better of his timidity for a great
+while, and perhaps should have been much longer under this cruel
+constraint, had not an accident favoured his wishes beyond what he could
+have hoped, or even imagined, and by shewing him part of what passed in
+her soul, emboldened him to unfold what his own laboured with on her
+account.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Describes the masquerade at the dutchess of Main's; the characters
+and intrigues of several persons of quality who were there; the odd
+behaviour of a lady in regard to Horatio, and Charlotta's sentiments upon
+it</i>.</p>
+<p>The dutchess of Main was one of the gayest and most gallant ladies at
+the court of Lewis XIV. she was for ever entertaining the nobility with
+balls, masquerades, or concerts; and as she was of the blood royal, and
+highly respected not only on that score, but by the distinguish'd favour
+of the king, the Chevalier St. George, and the princess his sister,
+frequently honoured her assemblies with their presence.</p>
+<p>To divert those ladies whose husbands were gone to Flanders, as she
+said, she now proposed a masquerade; and the day being fixed, it was the
+sole business of the young and gay to prepare habits such as were most
+suitable to their inclinations, or, as they thought, would be most
+advantageous to their persons.</p>
+<p>The Chevalier St. George was dressed in a rich Grecian habit of
+sky-coloured velvet embroidered with large silver stars: the top of his
+cap was encompassed with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, saphirs, amythists,
+and other precious stones of various colours, set in rows in the exact
+form of a rainbow: a light robe of crimson taffaty, fringed with silver,
+was fastened by a knot of jewels on his left shoulder, and crossed his
+back to the right side, where it was tucked into a belt of the finest
+oriental pearls, and thence hung down and trail'd a little on the ground:
+in fine, there was nothing that exceeded the magnificence and eloquence
+of his appearance, or was in any measure equal to it in the whole
+assembly, except that of the princess Louisa his sister.</p>
+<p>She would needs go as a Diana, and obliged all her ladies to be habited
+like nymphs: no idea of this goddess, inspired either by the painter or
+the poet's art, can in any degree come up to that which the fight of this
+amiable princess gave every beholder. Conformable to the character she
+assumed, she had a large crescent of diamonds on her head, which had no
+other covering than a great quantity of the finest hair in the world,
+partly braided with pearls and emeralds, and partly flowing in ringlets
+down on her alabaster neck: her garments were silver tissue, white and
+shining as the moon on a clear frosty night; and being buttoned up a
+little at the bottom as for the conveniency of the chace, shewed great
+part of her fine proportioned ankle. In her hand she held an ivory bow,
+and an arrow of the same headed with gold; and on her shoulder was fixed a
+quiver curiously wrought and beset with jewels: her attendants, which were
+six in number, had their habits green, but made in the same fashion of the
+princess's, with bows and arrows in their hands, and quivers at their
+backs: all of them had their hair turned up under a caul of silver net,
+from which hung little tossels of pearl intermixed with diamonds.</p>
+<p>Next to this fair troop the duchess of Main herself attracted the
+attention of the assembly: she was habited like an Indian queen, with
+robes composed of feathers so artfully placed, that they represented a
+thousand different kind of birds and beasts, which, as she moved, seemed
+to have motion in themselves: on her head she had a lofty plume supported
+by a cap, and richly ornamented with precious stones; as were all her
+garments wherever the propriety of the fashion of them would give leave.</p>
+<p>The young mademoiselle de Bourbon, in the habit of a sea-nymph, and
+mademoiselle de Blois, in that of a Minerva, ornamented and decorated
+according to their several characters, had also their share of admiration.</p>
+<p>Nor did the marchionesses of Vallois and Lucerne, both in the garb of
+shepherdesses, serve as mere foils to those I have mentioned: there was
+something; even in this plainness that shewed the elegance of the wearer's
+taste.</p>
+<p>The prince of Conde, the dukes of Berry, Vendosine and Chartres, the
+young marquis de Montbausine, the counts de Chenille, de Ranbeau, and the
+baron de Roche, had all of them habits extremely rich and well fancied, as
+were many others of whom it would be too tedious to make particular
+mention, and be likewise digressive to the matter I take upon me to
+relate; I shall therefore only say, that there was not one person of
+either sex, who did not endeavour to set themselves forth to all possible
+advantage.</p>
+<p>Those gentlemen who attended the Chevalier St. George were at their
+liberty to appear in what habit they pleased: Horatio knowing his charming
+Charlotta was a nymph of the forest, chose to be a hunter, and was
+accordingly dressed in green, with a little cap on his head and a javelin
+in his hand, as Acteon is generally portrayed; and indeed had he studied
+what garb would have become him best, he could not have fixed on one more
+proper for that purpose.</p>
+<p>Fine madamoiselle de Sanserre at least thought him more worthy her
+regard than any of those, the richness of whose habits made her know were
+of a higher rank:—she took particular notice of him, made him dance with
+her, and said a thousand gallant things to him; but he could very well
+have dispensed with hearing them, and found little satisfaction in any
+thing that deprived him of entertaining his dear Charlotta, who he easily
+knew by her air and shape from all those who were habited in the same
+manner. As he doubted not, however, but the person who had thus singled
+him out was a lady of condition, he returned her civilities with a
+politeness which was natural to him, but which had received great
+improvements since his arrival in France. She was no less charm'd with his
+conversation than she had been with his person, and impatient to know who
+he was, made an offer of shewing him her face on condition he would pluck
+off his mask at the same time: but this he would by no means agree to,
+because still hoping to get rid of her, and have some discourse with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, he did not think proper he should be known by any
+other, who might perhaps make remarks on his behaviour; and therefore
+excused himself from complying with her desires in terms as obliging as
+the circumstance would admit.</p>
+<p>As she had displayed all her talents of wit and eloquence to engage
+him, she looked on the little curiosity she had been able to inspire in
+him as an affront, and vexed she had thrown away so much time on an
+insensible, as she called him, flung hastily away, and joining with some
+other company, left him at liberty to pursue his inclinations.</p>
+<p>This lady had been a royal mistress, but not having the good fortune to
+be made a mother, was not honoured with any title; her being forsaken by
+the king, who indeed had few amours of any long continuance, did not in
+the least abate the good opinion she had of her beauty; and to fee herself
+followed by a train of lovers being the supreme pleasure of her life, she
+spared nothing to attract and engage: whenever she failed in this
+expectation it was a severe mortification; but her vanity and the gaity of
+her humour would not suffer it to prey upon her spirits for above a
+minute, and she diverted the shock of a rebuff in one place by new
+attempts to conquer in another; therefore it is probable thought no more
+of Horatio after she had turned from him.</p>
+<p>He now carefully avoided all that might interrupt his wishes, and
+seeing Charlotta had just broke off some conversation she had been
+entertained with, made what haste he could to prevent her from being
+re-engaged:—She immediately knew him; and as their mutual innocence made
+them perfectly free in expressing themselves to each other, she told him
+she was glad he was come; that they would keep together the whole
+masquerade, provided he did not think it a confinement, to prevent her
+being persecuted with the impertinencies of some people there, who she
+found thought a masque a kind of sanction for saying any thing.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but Horatio gave her all the assurances that
+words could form, of feeling the most perfect pleasure in her society, and
+that he should not; without the extremest reluctance, find himself obliged
+to abandon the happiness she offered him to any other person in the
+company: to recompence this complaisance, as she called it, she gave him a
+brief detail of the characters of as many as she knew thro' their habits;
+and in doing this discovered a sweet impartiality and love of truth, which
+was no small addition to her other charms. She blamed the baroness de
+Guiche for not being able to return the affection of a husband who had
+married her with an inconsiderable fortune, and had since she had been his
+wife pardoned a thousand miscarriages in her conduct:—she praised the
+virtue of mademoiselle de Mareau, who being at fifteen the bride of a man
+of seventy, behaved to him with a tenderness, and exact conformity to his
+will, which, if owing alone to duty, was not to be distinguished from
+inclination:—she expressed a concern that the gaity of the dutchess of
+Vendome gave the world any room for censure, and highly condemned the duke
+for being guilty of actions which had made her sometimes give into parties
+of pleasure by way of retaliation:—but she was more severe on the
+indecorum of mademoiselle de Renville, who being known for the mistress of
+the duke of Chartres, and that she was supported by him, was fond of
+appearing in all public places. She could not help testifying a good deal
+of surprize, that any woman who pretended to virtue would admit her into
+their assemblies: not but she said the case of that lady was greatly to be
+pitied, who being high-born and bred had been reduced to the lowest
+exigencies of life, and from which to be relieved she had only consented
+to assist the looser pleasures of the amorous duke; but, added she, I
+would not methinks have her seem to glory in her shame, and in a manner of
+life which her misfortunes alone can render excusable; nor can I approve
+of the indulgence her mistaken triumph meets with, because it may not only
+destroy all notions of regret in herself for what her necessities oblige
+her to, but also make others, who have not the same pretence, find a kind
+of sanction for their own errors:—vice, said she, ought at lead to blush,
+and hide itself as much as possible from view, left by being tolerated in
+public it should become a fashion.</p>
+<p>Horatio was so much taken up with admiring the justness of her
+sentiments, that awed by them, as it were, he could not yet, tho' mask'd,
+make any discovery of his own: she was about entering into a discourse
+with him concerning the first motives which had rendered some persons she
+pointed out to him unhappy in the marriage-state, which perhaps might have
+given him an opportunity for explaining himself, when a lady richly
+dress'd came up to them, and giving Horatio a sudden pluck by the arm;
+villain! cried she. Madam, returned he, strongly amazed. Is the trifling
+conversation of Sanserre, resumed she, or this little creature to be
+preferred to a woman of that quality you have dared to abuse?—but this
+night has convinced her of your perfidy:—she sends you this, continued
+she, giving him a slap over the face as hard as she could, and be assured
+it is the last present you will ever receive from her.</p>
+<p>She had no sooner uttered these words than she flew quick as lightning
+out of the room, leaving Horatio in such a consternation both at what she
+said and did, as deprived him even of the thought of following her, or
+using any means to solve this riddle.—He was in a deep musing when
+mademoiselle Charlotta, possessed that moment with a passion she till then
+was ignorant of, said to him; I find, Horatio, you have wonderfully
+improved the little time you have been in France, to gain you a
+multiplicity of mistresses; but I am sorry my inadvertency in talking to a
+man so doubly pre-engaged, should cause me to be reckoned among the
+number. In speaking this she turned away with a confusion which was
+visible in her air, and the scarlet colour with which her neck was dyed.
+By heaven! cried he, in the utmost agitation, I know so little the meaning
+of what I have just now heard, that it seems rather a dream than a
+reality. O the deceiver! returned she, a little slackening her pace, will
+you pretend to have given no occasion for the reproach you have
+received:—great must have been your professions to draw on you a
+resentment such as I have been witness of;—but I shall take care to give
+the lady, whoever she is, no farther room for jealousy on my account; and
+as for mademoiselle Sanserre, I believe the stock of reputation she has
+will not suffer much from the addition of one more favourite to the number
+the world has already given her.</p>
+<p>The oddness of this adventure, and the vexation he was in to find
+Charlotta seemed incensed against him for a crime of which he knew himself
+so perfectly innocent, destroyed at once all the considerations his
+timidity had inspired, and aiming only to be cleared in her opinion;—if
+there be faith in man, cried he, I know nothing of what I am accused: no
+woman but your charming self ever had the power to give me an uneasy
+moment;—it is you alone have taught me what it is to love, and as I never
+felt, I never pretended to that passion for any other.</p>
+<p>Me! replied Charlotta, extremely confused; If it were so, you take a
+strange time and method to declare it in;—but I know of no concern I have
+in your amours, your gratitude, or your perfidy; and you had better follow
+and endeavour to appease your enraged mistress, than lose your time on me
+in vain excuses.</p>
+<p>Ah mademoiselle! cried he, how unjust and cruel are you, and how severe
+my fate, which not content with the despair my real unworthiness of
+adoring you has plunged me in, but also adds to it an imputation of crimes
+my soul most detests:—I never heard even the name of the lady you
+mentioned till your lips pronounced it; and if it be she I danced with, I
+protest I never saw her face: and as for the meaning of the other lady's
+treatment of me, it must certainly be occasioned by some mistake, having
+offered nothing to any of the sex that could justify such a proceeding.</p>
+<p>All the time he was speaking Charlotta was endeavouring to compose
+herself.—The hurry of spirits she had been in at the apprehensions of
+Horatio's having any amorous engagements, shewing her how much interest
+she took in him, made her blush at having discovered herself to him so
+far; and tho' she could not be any more tranquil, yet she thought she
+would for the future be more prudent; to this end she now affected to
+laugh at the dilemma into which she told him he had brought himself, by
+making addresses in two places at the same time, and advised him in a gay
+manner to be more circumspect.</p>
+<p>Thus was this beautiful lady, by her jealousy, convinced of her
+sensibility; and as difficult as Horatio found it to remove the one, he
+found his consolation in the discovery of the other.</p>
+<p>From the time he had been disengaged from mademoiselle Sanferre, he had
+retired with Charlotta to one corner of the room; and the greatest part of
+the company being in a grand dance, the others were taken up in looking on
+them, so that our young lovers had the opportunity of talking to each
+other without being taken much notice of; but several of the masquers now
+drawing nearer that way, prevented Horatio from saying any thing farther
+at that time, either to clear his innocence or prosecute his passion; and
+Charlotta, glad to avoid all discourse on a subject she thought herself
+but ill prepared to answer, joined some ladies, with whom she stayed till
+the ball was near concluded.</p>
+<p>Horatio after this withdrew to a window, and flickered behind a large
+damask curtain, threw himself on a sopha he found there, and ruminated at
+full on the adventure had happened to him, in which he found a mixture of
+joy and discontent: the behaviour of Charlotta assured him he was not
+indifferent to her; but then the thoughts that he appeared in her eyes as
+ungrateful, inconstant and perfidious, made him tremble, left the idea of
+what he seemed to be should utterly erase that favourable one she had
+entertained of what he truly was. By what means he should prove his
+sincerity he knew not; and as he was utterly unpracticed in the affairs of
+love, lamented the absence of his good friend the baron de la Valiere, who
+he thought might have been, able to give him same advice, how to proceed.</p>
+<p>He remained buried, as it were, in these cogitations, when a lady
+plucked back the curtain which screen'd him, and without seeing any one
+was there, threw herself on the sopha almost in his lap.—Oh heaven!
+cried she, perceiving what she had done, and immediately rose; but Horatio
+starting up, would not suffer her to quit the place, telling her, that
+since she chose it, it was his business to retire, and leave her to
+indulge whatever meditations had brought her thither. She thank'd him in a
+voice which, by its trembling, testified her mind was in some very great
+disorder; and added, if your good nature, said she, be equal to your
+complaisance, you will do me the favour to desire a lady, dressed in pink
+and silver, with a white sattin scarf cross her shoulder, to come here
+directly:—you cannot, continued she, be mistaken in the person, because
+there is no other in the same habit. Tho' Horatio was very loth to engage
+himself in the lady's affairs, fearing to give a second umbrage to
+mademoiselle Charlotta, yet he knew not how to excuse granting so small a
+request, and therefore assured her of his compliance.</p>
+<p>Accordingly he sent his eyes in quest, which soon pointed out to him
+the person whom she had described: having delivered his message to her;
+Horatio! cried she, somewhat astonished, how came you employed in this
+errand? he knew her voice, and that it was mademoiselle de Coigney, the
+mistress of his friend the baron, on which he immediately told her how the
+lady had surprized him: she laughed heartily, and said no more but left
+him, and went to the window he had directed.</p>
+<p>For a long time he sought in vain for an opportunity of speaking to the
+object of his affections: she was still engaged either in dancing or in
+different parties; and as his eyes continually followed her, he easily
+perceived she purposely avoided him. A magnificent collation being
+prepared in a great drawing-room next to that in which the company were,
+they all went in to partake of it. The entertainment was served up on two
+large tables; but as every one was mask'd, and the vizards so contriv'd,
+that those who wore them could eat without plucking them off, they sat
+down promiscuously without ceremony or any distinction of degrees, none
+being obliged to know another in these disguises; only the attendants of
+the Chevalier St. George, and the princess Louisa, took care not to place
+themselves at the same they were, so by this means sat together; but a
+great number of others being mingled with them, no particular conversation
+could be expected.</p>
+<p>Supper being over, they all returned to the ballroom; and Horatio
+having contrived it so as to get next Charlotta, she could not refuse the
+offer he made her of his hand to lead her in; but as he was about saying
+something to her in a low voice, a man came hastily to him, and taking him
+a little on one side, presented him with a letter, and then retired with
+so much precipitation, that Horatio could neither ask from whom it came,
+nor well discern what sort of person it was that gave it him. He put it
+however in his pocket, designing to read it at more leisure, his curiosity
+for the contents not equalling his desire of entertaining mademoiselle
+Charlotta; but that young lady, whose jealousy received new fewel from
+this object, had slipt away before he could turn from the man, and had
+already mixed with a cluster of both sexes who had got into the room
+before them.</p>
+<p>Horatio finding all attempts to speak to her that night would be
+ineffectual, went back into the drawing-room where they supped, and where
+but few people remaining he might examine the letter with more freedom. He
+saw it had no superscription; but supposing the inside would give him some
+satisfaction, he broke it open hastily and found in it these lines.<br/>
+<br/>
+'Whether false or faithful still are you dear to<br/>
+me; and if I am in the least so to you,<br/>
+the treatment you received will be pardoned for<br/>
+the sake of the occasion:—I own that at a<br/>
+place where you might have been as particular as<br/>
+you pleased with me without suspicion, it enraged<br/>
+me to see you waste those precious moments<br/>
+with others which I flattered myself to have solely<br/>
+engrossed;—besides, the character of mademoiselle<br/>
+Sanserre is so well known, that I thought<br/>
+you would have avoided her of all others; yet<br/>
+had she forced herself upon you, sure you might<br/>
+afterwards have come to me, when I had given<br/>
+you so particular a description of the habit I<br/>
+should wear; but instead of making any excuse<br/>
+for a first transgression, you hurry to a second,<br/>
+and pay all your devoirs to another, whom indeed<br/>
+I knew not at that time, but am since informed<br/>
+she is one of the maids of honour to princess<br/>
+Louisa.—I must confess I had not resolution<br/>
+enough to suffer so cruel an injustice, and being<br/>
+too much overcome by my passion to resent it as<br/>
+I ought, I left the place, and desired our friend to<br/>
+do it for me.—I find she somewhat exceeded<br/>
+her commission, but you must forgive her, since<br/>
+it was her love for me:—I am now at her<br/>
+house, where I impatiently expect you—The<br/>
+baron is secure for some hours;—those we may<br/>
+pass together, if you still think there is any thing<br/>
+worth quitting the masquerade for, to be found<br/>
+in the arms of<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>, &amp;c,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> If you now fail, no excuse hereafter shall<br/>
+ever plead your pardon.'</p>
+<p>This letter confirmed Horatio in the belief he had before, that he had
+been mistaken by the lady for some favorite person; but who the lady was,
+he was as much in the dark as ever; nor would he have given himself any
+trouble concerning it, if he had not hoped by that means to have retrieved
+the good opinion of Charlotta. He was however impatient to shew her the
+letter, as he doubted not but she had seen it delivered to him; but with
+all his assiduity he could not obtain one word in private during the
+masquerade; and when it was broke up, which was not till near morning, and
+they returned to St. Germains, it was impossible, because he knew she must
+be in the princess's chamber, as he in that of the Chevalier St. George:
+he was therefore obliged to content himself with the hope that the next
+day would be more favourable.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>An explanation of the foregoing adventure, with a continuation of
+the intrigues of some French ladies, and the policy of mademoiselle
+Coigney in regard of her brother</i>.</p>
+<p>It cannot be supposed that either of our young lovers enjoyed much true
+repose that night, tho' the fatigue of the dance might naturally require
+it: the one did but just know herself a lover before she felt the worst
+torments of that passion in her jealousy; and the other having been
+compelled, as it were, to lay open his heart in order to convince his
+charmer it had no object but herself in view, knew not but his temerity in
+doing so might be imputed to him as no less a crime than that from which
+he attempted to be cleared: each had their different anxieties; but those
+of Horatio were the least severe, because thro' all the indignation of his
+mistress he saw marks of an affection, which he could not have flattered
+himself with if they had not been evident; and conscious of his innocence,
+doubted not but time would both explain that and reconcile the offended
+fair:—whereas Charlotta was far from being able to assure herself of her
+lover's fidelity: she could not conceive how, in the compass of one night,
+such a plurality of mistakes should happen to the same man, and trembled
+at the reflection that this man, who possibly was the falsest of his sex,
+should not only have made an impression on her heart, but also, by the
+concern she had so unwarily expressed, have reason to triumph in his
+conquest:—ashamed therefore of what she felt, and determined to make use
+of her utmost efforts to conceal it for the future, if not to conquer it,
+she thought to shun all occasions of seeing or speaking to this dangerous
+invader of her peace was the first step she ought to take; but how little
+is a heart, possessed of the passion her's was, capable of judging for
+itself, or maintaining any resolutions in prejudice of the darling
+object!—she had no sooner set it down as a rule to avoid him, than she
+began to wish for his presence, and contented herself with thinking she
+desired it only out of curiosity to hear what he would say, and to have an
+opportunity, by a rallying manner of behaviour, to destroy whatever
+conjectures he might have form'd in favour of his passion; but all this
+time she deceived herself, and in reality only longed for an interview
+with him, in hopes he would find means to justify himself. Horatio, who
+was impatient to attempt it, seeing her at a distance walking on the
+terrass with no other company than mademoiselle de Coigney, went
+immediately to join them, thinking that if the presence of this lady might
+be a bar to many things he wanted to say to Charlotta, it would be of
+service to him another way, by preventing her from making him any
+reproaches.</p>
+<p>As soon as he came near, I owe you little thanks, Horatio, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney laughing, for the interruption you gave me last
+night. In the multiplicity of those reflections which his own affairs had
+occasioned him, he had entirely forgot the lady in the window; and
+imagining some other accident had happened which should make him appear
+yet more guilty in the eyes of Charlotta, ask'd her, with some impatience,
+what she meant? don't you remember, answered she, that you brought me a
+message from a certain lady? Yes, madam, said he, and in that, thought I
+did no more than my duty obliged me to, as she seemed under some
+perplexity, which I supposed she was impatient to acquaint you with.</p>
+<p>You judged rightly, indeed, resumed de Coigney; but had you known how
+gladly I would have dispensed with the honour of her confidence, I dare
+answer you would have spared it me:—I'll tell you, my dear, pursued she
+turning to Charlotta, for the secrets of this lady are pretty universal;
+and I am certain that I have heard from no less than fifty different
+persons, that very affair she was in such a hurry to inform me of last
+night: you must needs have heard of the amour between madam la Boissy and
+the chevalier de Mourenbeau? frequently, replied Charlotta; her ridiculous
+jealousies of him have long been the jest of the whole court; and I never
+go to Marli or Versailles, but I am told of some new instance of it. And
+yet to relate a long story of her passion, and his ingratitude, said
+mademoiselle de Coigney, was I last night dragged into a dark corner, and
+deprived for an hour together of all the pleasures of the masquerade: it
+seems she had over-heard some gallant things between him and the daughter
+of the count de Granpree, and that gave her the occasion of running into a
+recapitulation of all the professions of constancy he had made to herself,
+the proofs she had given him of a too easy belief, and the little regard
+he now paid to her peace of mind.—I was obliged to affect a pity for her
+misfortunes, and gratitude for the trust she reposed in me, tho' neither
+the one or the other merited in reality any thing but contempt.</p>
+<p>One often suffers a good deal from one's complaisance this way, said
+Charlotta; and for my part there is nothing I would more carefully avoid
+than secrets of this nature; but you have not told me how far Horatio was
+accessary to bringing you into this trouble.</p>
+<p>He them said that he would save mademoiselle de Coigney the labour, and
+immediately related how the lady they were speaking of threw herself upon
+him, and afterwards enjoined him to deliver the message. But, added he, I
+think last night was one of the most unfortunate ones I have ever known,
+since, with all the care I could take, I was continually prevented by
+other people's concerns from prosecuting my own.—I was not only insulted
+and reproached for being mistaken for some other person, for it could
+happen no other way, but also soon after received a letter no less
+mysterious to me than the blow, which doubtless came from the same
+quarter: as there is no name subscribed, or if there were, I should look
+on myself as under no obligation of secrecy, I will beg leave to
+communicate it to you, ladies.</p>
+<p>With these words he took the letter out of his pocket and held it open
+between them: Charlotta conquered her impatience so far as not to take it
+out of his hand; but mademoiselle Coigney snatched it hastily, imagining
+she knew the hand; nor was she deceived in her conjecture: she had no
+sooner read it slightly over;—see here, mademoiselle Charlotta, said she,
+a new proof of madam de Olonne's folly, and my brother's continued
+attachment to that vile woman.</p>
+<p>Charlotta then looked over the letter with a satisfaction that was
+visible in her countenance; and as soon as she had done, then it is plain,
+said she, that Horatio was mistaken for monsieur de Coigney: but how it
+happened so is what I cannot conceive.</p>
+<p>I can easily solve the riddle, replied mademoiselle de Coigney: I heard
+my brother say he intended to wear a hunting dress at the masquerade; but
+being disappointed of going to it, by his most christian majesty sending
+for him to Marli, I suppose too suddenly for him to give notice of his
+enforced absence to madame d'Olonne, and Horatio by chance appearing in
+the same habit which he had doubtless told her he would be in, and their
+sizes being pretty much alike, she might very well be deceived, and also
+have a seeming reason for the jealousy and rage her letter testifies.</p>
+<p>Nothing could exceed the joy Horatio felt at this unexpected
+eclaircisement of his innocence, which was also doubled by the pleasure
+which, in spight of all her endeavours to restrain it, he saw sparkle in
+the eyes of his beloved Charlotta. Neither of them, however, had any
+opportunity of expressing their sentiments at this time, de Coigney
+continuing with them till dinner, when they all separated to go to their
+respective tables.</p>
+<p>The next day afforded what in this he had sought in vain:—he found her
+alone in her own apartment; and having broke the ice, was now grown bold
+enough to declare his passion, with all the embellishments necessary to
+render it successful: mademoiselle Charlotta knew very well what became
+the decorum of her sex, and was too nice an observer of it not to behave
+with all the reserve imaginable on this occasion. All the freedom she had
+been accustomed to treat him with, while ignorant of his or her own
+inclination, was now banished from her words and actions, and she gravely
+told him, that if he were in earnest, it was utterly improper for her to
+receive any professions of that kind without the approbation of monsieur
+de Palfoy her father; and as there was but very little probability of his
+granting it, on many considerations, she would wish him to quell in its
+infancy an affection which might otherwise be attended with misfortunes to
+them both.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that in this she spoke no more than what her
+reason suggested: she knew very well that her father had much higher
+expectations in view for her, and that on the least suspicion of her
+entertaining a foreigner, and one who seemed to have no other dependance
+than that of favour, she should be immediately removed from St. Germains;
+so that it behoved her to be very circumspect in any encouragement she
+gave him: but tho' she spoke to him in this manner, it was not, as her
+actions afterwards fully demonstrated, that she really designed what she
+said should make him desist his pretensions, but that he should be careful
+how he let any one into the secret of his heart. She foresaw little
+prospect of their love ever being crown'd with success, yet found too much
+pleasure in indulging it to be able to wish an extinction of it, either in
+him or herself; and in spight of all the distance she assumed, he easily
+perceived that whatever difficulties he should have to struggle with in
+the prosecution of his addresses, they would not be owing to her cruelty.
+They were both of them too young to attend much to consequences; and as
+securing the affections of each other was what each equally aimed at,
+neither of them reflected how terrible a separation would be, and how
+great the likelihood that it must happen they knew not how soon.</p>
+<p>As the remonstrances of mademoiselle Charlotta had all the effect she
+intended them for on Horatio, he so well commanding himself that no person
+in the world, except the baron de la Valiere, who was absent, had the
+least intimation of his passion, they might probably have lived a long
+time together in the contentment they now enjoyed, had not an accident, of
+which neither of them could have any notion, put a stop to it.</p>
+<p>Horatio thought no more on the affair of madame de Olonne and monsieur
+de Coigney, from the time he had been cleared of having any concern with
+that lady, yet was that night's adventure productive of what he looked
+upon as the greatest misfortune could befal him. But to make this matter
+conspicuous to the reader, it is necessary to give a brief detail of the
+circumstances that led to it.</p>
+<p>This lady, who was wife to the baron de Olonne, was one of the most
+beautiful, and most vicious women in the kingdom; she entertained a great
+number of lovers; but there was none more attached to her, or more loved
+by her than young monsieur de Coigney: he had for a long time maintained a
+criminal correspondence with her, to the great trouble of all his friends,
+who endeavoured all they could, but in vain, to wean him from her: he had
+lately a recounter with one of her former lovers, which had like to have
+cost him his life; and it was with great difficulty, and as much as the
+relations on both sides could do, by representing to the king that they
+were set upon by street-robbers, that they avoided the punishment the law
+inflicts on duelists. De Coigney was but just recovered of the hurts he
+had received, when, so far from resolving to quit the occasion of them, he
+made an appointment to meet her at the masquerade:—they had described to
+each other the habit they intended to wear, when, as he was preparing for
+the rendezvous, an express came from the king, commanding his immediate
+attendance at Marli, where the court then was: this was occasioned by old
+monsieur de Coigney, who having, by some spies he kept about his son,
+received intelligence of this assignation, had no other way to disappoint
+it than by the royal authority, which he easily procured, as he was very
+much in favour with his majesty; and had laid the matter before him.</p>
+<p>The person who came with the mandate had orders not to quit the
+presence of young Coigney, but bring him directly; by which means he was
+deprived of all opportunity of sending his excuses to madame de Olonne,
+who coming to the masquerade big with expectation of seeing her favourite
+lover, and finding him, as she imagined, engaged with others, and wholly
+regardless of herself, was seized with the most violent jealousy; and not
+able to continue in a place where she had received so manifest a slight,
+desired mademoiselle de Freville, her confidant and companion, to upbraid
+him with his inconstancy; which request she complied with in the manner
+already related, and which gave mademoiselle Charlotta such matter of
+disquiet.</p>
+<p>The amorous madame de Olonne, however, having given vent to the first
+transports of her fury, could not hinder those of a softer nature from
+returning with the same violence as ever; and for the gratification of
+them wrote that letter which Horatio received, and occasioned afterward
+the explanation of the whole affair, which explanation he then thought
+fortunate for him; but by a whimsical effect of chance it proved utterly
+the reverse.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney, who had the most tender affection for her
+brother, and passionately wished to make him break off all engagements
+with a woman of madame de Olonne's character, and who might possibly bring
+him under many inconveniencies, took the hint which mademoiselle Charlotta
+unthinkingly gave, by telling her how she had been affronted on his
+account by de Freville, of putting something into his head which might
+probably succeed better than all the attempts had hitherto been practised
+to make him quit his present criminal amour.</p>
+<p>The first time she saw mademoiselle de Freville, she told her as a
+great secret that her brother was fallen in love with mademoiselle
+Charlotta, and that she believed it would be a match, for he had already
+engaged friends to sollicit monsieur de Palfoy on that score. This she knew
+would be carried directly to madame de Olonne, and doubted not but it
+would so increase her jealous rage, that all he could say in his defence
+would pass for nothing: she also added, that he was in the masquerade that
+night, tho' for some private reasons best known to himself, said she, he
+had ordered his people to give out he was gone to Marli.</p>
+<p>De Freville, who was the creature of madame de Olonne, no sooner
+received this intelligence than she flew with it to her, as mademoiselle
+de Coigney had imagined: neither did it fail of the desired effect. When
+he came to visit her, as he did on the moment of his return from Marli,
+the violence of her temper made her break out into such reproaches and
+exclamations, as a man had need be very much in love to endure: he
+endeavoured to make her sensible of her error by a thousand protestations;
+but the more he talk'd of Marli and the king's command, the more she told
+him of Charlotta and the masquerade; and almost distracted to find he
+still persisted in denying he was there, or had ever made any tender
+professions to that lady, she proceeded to such extravagancies as he, who
+knew himself innocent, could not forbear replying to in terms which were
+far from being softening:—in fine, they quarrelled to a very high degree,
+and some company happening to come in at the same time, hindered either of
+them from saying any thing which might palliate the resentment of the
+other.</p>
+<p>Before they had an opportunity of meeting again, mademoiselle de
+Coigney saw her brother; and artfully introducing some discourse of
+mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy, began to run into the utmost encomiums on
+that lady's beauty, virtue, wit, and sweetness of disposition, and at last
+added, that she should think herself happy in having her for a sister.
+Young de Coigney listened attentively to what she said: he had often been
+in her company, but being prepossessed with his passion for madame de
+Olonne, her charms had not that effect on him as now that the behaviour of
+the other had very much lessened his esteem of her.</p>
+<p>He replied, that he knew no lady more deserving than the person she
+mentioned, and should be glad if, by her interest, he might have
+permission to visit her: this was all mademoiselle de Coigney wanted; she
+doubted not but if he were once engaged in an honourable passion, it would
+entirely cure him of all regard for madame de Olonne, and as she knew he
+had a good share of understanding, thought that when he should come to a
+more near acquaintance with the perfections of Charlotta, the loose airs
+of the other would appear in their true colours, and become as odious to
+him as once they had been infatuating.</p>
+<p>Finding him so well inclined to her purpose, she took upon herself the
+care of introducing him, as it was indeed easy to do, considering the
+intimacy there was between her and Charlotta. That young lady received him
+as the brother of a person she extremely loved; and little suspecting the
+design on which he came, treated him with a gaity which heightened her
+charms, and at the same time flattered his hopes, that there was something
+in his person not disagreeable to her.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney took care that every visit he made to Charlotta
+should be reported to de Olonne, which still heightening her resentment,
+together with his little assiduity to moderate it, made a total breach
+between them, to the great satisfaction of all his friends in general.
+Those of them whom mademoiselle had acquainted with the stratagem by which
+she brought it about, praised her wit and address; and as they knew the
+family and fortune of mademoiselle Charlotta, encouraged her to do every
+thing in her power for turning that into reality which she at first had
+made use of only as a feint for the reclaiming of her brother.</p>
+<p>The young gentleman himself stood in need of no remonstrances of the
+advantages he might propose by a marriage with Charlotta; her beauty and
+the charms of her conversation had made a conquest of his heart far more
+complete than any prospect of interest could have done: not only de
+Olonne, but the whole sex would now in vain have endeavoured to attract
+the least regard from him, and as he was naturally vain, he thought
+nothing but Charlotta de Palfoy worthy of him.</p>
+<p>The success he had been accustomed to meet in his love affairs,
+emboldened him to declare himself much sooner than he would have done had
+he followed the advice of his sister, and too soon to be received in a
+manner agreeable to his wishes by a lady of Charlotta's modesty and
+delicacy, even had she not been prepossessed in favour of another; for
+tho' she respected him as the brother of her friend, that consideration
+was too weak to hinder her from letting him know how displeasing his
+pretensions were to her, and that if he persisted in them she should be
+obliged to refuse seeing him any more. He was now sensible of his error,
+and endeavoured to excuse it by the violence of his passion, which he said
+would not suffer him to conceal what he felt; but as, when a heart is
+truly devoted to one object, the sound of love from any other mouth is
+harsh and disagreeable; the more he aimed to vindicate himself in this
+point the more guilty he became, and all he said served only to increase
+her dislike.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle de Coigney after this took upon her to intercede for her
+brother's passion, but with as ill success as he had done; and being one
+day more importunate than usual, mademoiselle Charlotta grew in so ill a
+humour, that she told her she was determined to give no encouragement to
+the amorous addresses of any man, unless commanded to do so by those who
+had the power of disposing her; but, added she, I would not have monsieur
+de Coigney make any efforts that way; for were he to gain the consent of
+my father, which I am far from believing he would do, I have so little
+inclination to give him those returns of affection he may expect, that in
+such a case I should venture being guilty of disobedience.</p>
+<p>Is there any thing so odious then, madam, in the person of my brother?
+said de Coigney with a tone that shewed how much she was picqued. I never
+gave myself the trouble of examining into the merits either of his person
+or behaviour, replied she; but to deal sincerely with you, I have a
+perfect aversion to the thoughts of changing my condition, and if you
+desire the friendship between us should subsist, you will never mention
+any thing of it to me;—and as to your brother, when I am convinced I
+shall receive no farther persecutions from him of the nature I have lately
+had, he may depend on my treating him with my former regard; till then,
+you will do me a favour, and him a service, to desire he would refrain his
+visits.</p>
+<p>These expressions may be thought little conformable to the natural
+politeness of the French, or to that sweetness of disposition which
+mademoiselle Charlotta testified on other occasions; but she found herself
+so incessantly pressed both by the brother and the sister, and that all
+the denials she had given in a different manner had been without effect,
+therefore was obliged to assume a harshness, which was far from being
+natural to her, in order to prevent consequences which she had too much
+reason to apprehend.</p>
+<p>Horatio soon discovered he had a rival in monsieur de Coigney; and tho'
+he easily saw by Charlotta's behaviour that he had nothing to fear on this
+score, yet the interruptions he received from the addresses of this new
+lover, made him little able to endure his presence, and he sometimes could
+not refrain himself from saying such things as, had not the other been too
+much buoyed up with his vanity to take them as meant to himself, must have
+occasioned a quarrel.</p>
+<p>She made use of all the power she had over him in order to curb the
+impetuosity of his temper whenever he met this disturber of his wishes;
+but his jealousy would frequently get the better of the respect he paid
+her, and they never were together in her apartment without filling her
+with mortal fears. She therefore found it absolutely necessary to get rid
+of an adorer she hated, in order to hinder one she loved from doing any
+thing which might deprive her of him; and tho' she had a real friendship
+for mademoiselle de Coigney, yet she chose rather to break with her, than
+run the hazard she was continually exposed to by her brother's
+indefatigable pursuit.</p>
+<p>But all her precaution was of no effect, as well as, the enforced
+patience of Horatio: what most she trembled at now fell upon her, and by a
+means she had least thought of. Madame de Olonne, full of malice at being
+forsaken by her lover, and soon informed by whose charms her misfortune
+was occasioned, got a person to represent to the baron de Palfoy the
+conquest his daughter had made in such terms, as made him imagine she
+encouraged his passion. Neither the character, family, or fortune of de
+Coigney being equal to what he thought Charlotta might deserve, made him
+very uneasy at this report; and as he looked on her not having acquainted
+him with his pretensions as an indication of her having an affection for
+him; he resolved to put a stop to the progress of it at once, which could
+be done no way so effectually as by removing her from St. Germains.</p>
+<p>To this end the careful Father came himself to that court, and waited
+on the princess: he told her highness, that being in an ill state of
+health and obliged to keep much at home, Charlotta must exchange the
+honour she enjoyed in her service, for the observance of her duty to a
+parent, who was now incapable of any other pleasures than her society.</p>
+<p>The princess, to whom she was extremely dear, could not think of
+parting with her without an extreme concern, but after the reasons he had
+given for desiring it, would offer nothing for detaining her, on which she
+was immediately called in, and made acquainted with this sudden alteration
+in her affairs.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. VIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The parting of Horatio and mademoiselle Charlotta, and what happened
+after she left St. Germains.</i></p>
+<p>A peal of thunder bursting over her head, could not have been more
+alarming to mademoiselle Charlotta than the news she now heard; but her
+father commanded, the princess had consented, and there was no remedy to
+be hoped: she took leave of her royal mistress with a shower of unfeigned
+tears, after which she retired to her apartment to prepare for quitting
+it, while the baron went to pay his compliments to some of the gentlemen
+at that court.</p>
+<p>To be removed in this sudden manner she could impute to no other motive
+than that the love of Horatio had by some accident been betrayed to her
+father, (for she never so much as thought of monsieur de Coigney;) and the
+thoughts of being separated from him was so dreadful, that till this fatal
+moment she knew not how dear he was to her:—to add to the calamity of
+her condition, he was that morning gone a hunting with the Chevalier St.
+George, and she had not even the opportunity of giving him the consolation
+of knowing she bore at least an equal part in the grief this unexpected
+accident must occasion. Mademoiselle de Coigney came to take leave of her,
+as did all the ladies of the queen's train as well as the princess's, and
+expressed the utmost concern for losing so agreeable a companion; but
+these ceremonies were tedious to her, and as she could not see Horatio,
+she dispatched every thing with as much expedition as her secret
+discontent would permit her to do, and then sent to let her father know
+she was ready to attend him.</p>
+<p>When they were in the coach both observed a profound silence for some
+time; at last, I hope Charlotta, said the baron, you have no extraordinary
+reasons to be troubled at leaving St. Germains? none, my lord, answered
+she, of so much moment to me as the fears my sudden removal is owing to
+your being dissatisfied with my conduct. I flatter myself, resumed he, you
+are conscious of nothing which should authorize such an apprehension:—you
+have had an education which ought to inform you that persons of your sex
+and age are never to act in any material point of themselves:—but courts
+are places where this lesson is seldom practised; and tho' the virtues of
+the English queen and princess are a shining example to all about them,
+yet I am of opinion that innocence is safest in retirement.</p>
+<p>As she was fully convinced in her mind that it was only owing to some
+jealousy of her behaviour that she had been taken from St. Germains, and
+also that it was on the score of Horatio, she would not enquire too deeply
+for fear of giving her father an opportunity of entering into
+examinations, which she thought she could not answer without either
+injuring the truth, or avowing what would not only have incensed him to a
+very great degree, but also put him upon measures which would destroy even
+the most distant hope of ever seeing Horatio more. He, on his side, would
+not acquaint her with the sentiments which the above-mentioned suggestions
+had inspired him with, thinking he should discover more of the truth by
+keeping a watchful eye over her behaviour without seeming to do so.</p>
+<p>During the time of their little journey from the palace of St. Germains
+to Paris, where monsieur the baron de Palfoy ordinarily resided, nothing
+farther was discoursed on: but when they arrived, and mademoiselle
+Charlotta had opportunity of reflecting on this sudden turn, she gave a
+loose to all the anxieties it occasioned:—she was not only snatch'd from
+the presence of what was most dear to her on earth, but as she had no
+confidante, nor durst make any, was also without any means either of
+conveying a letter to him, or receiving the least intelligence from him.</p>
+<p>She had been in Paris but a very little time before she perceived the
+baron artfully kept her in the most severe restraint under a shew of
+liberty; pretending to her, as he had done to the princess, that he was
+not well enough to go abroad, he would stay at home whole days together,
+and oblige her to read, or play to him on the spinnet, which frequently
+she did with an aking heart; and when she went out, it was always in
+company with a relation whom he kept at his house on purpose, as he said,
+as a companion to divert her, but in reality to be a spy over all her
+actions; and had orders to dive, by all the insinuations she was mistress
+of, into her very thoughts. All this mademoiselle Charlotta had
+penetration enough to discover, and, spite of the discontent she laboured
+under, so well concealed what they endeavoured to find out, that all the
+traps laid for her were wholly ineffectual.</p>
+<p>But in what manner did the enamoured Horatio support so cruel an
+affliction! he was no sooner informed at his return from hunting of what
+had happened, than he was seized with agonies, which, in the force he did
+himself to conceal, threw him into a fever that confined him to his bed
+for several days: as his passion for mademoiselle Charlotta was not in the
+least suspected, every body imputed his disorder to be occasioned by
+having over-heated himself in the chace, and during his indisposition was
+visited by all the court:—the Chevalier St. George sent two or three
+times a day to enquire of the health of his countryman, as he was pleased
+to call him, and gave him many other tokens how greatly he was in his
+favour; but all the civilities he received were not capable of lessening
+the anguish of his mind, which kept his body so weak, that tho' youth and
+an excellent constitution threw off the fever in a short time, yet he was
+unable to quit his chamber in near three weeks, and when he did, appeared
+so wan and so dejected, that he seemed no more than the shadow of the once
+gay and sprightly Horatio.</p>
+<p>But while he was thus sinking under the burden of his griefs, and
+despairing ever to see his adorable Charlotta any more, fate was providing
+for him a relief as unexpected as the cause of his present unhappy
+situation had been, and to the very same persons also was he indebted both
+for the one and the other.</p>
+<p>Young monsieur de Coigney was not less alarmed than Horatio at the
+removal of Charlotta, tho' it had not the same effect on him; he was
+continually teizing his sister to make her a visit and repeat her
+intercessions in his behalf; but she had received such tart answers on
+that score, that she was very unwilling to undertake the embassy: however,
+she complied at last, and was received by mademoiselle Charlotta in the
+most obliging manner, but had not the least opportunity of executing her
+commission, that lady having a good deal of company with her, whom she
+purposely detained to avoid entering into any particular conversation with
+her, till the hour in which she knew her attendance on the queen would
+oblige her to take leave.</p>
+<p>The baron de Palfoy was at that time abroad; but when he was informed
+who had been there, was a little disturbed that the sister of de Coigney
+endeavoured still to keep up her intimacy with his daughter, not doubting
+but she had either brought some letter or message from him, as he was
+fully persuaded in his mind that there was a mutual affection between
+them; but he took no notice of it as yet, thinking that probably she might
+make a second visit, and that then he should be better able to judge of
+the motive.</p>
+<p>In the mean time the father of monsieur de Coigney being informed of
+these proceedings, thought it beneath his son to carry on a clandestine
+courtship; and the great share he possessed of the royal favour, he having
+been instrumental in gaining some point in the parliament of Paris,
+rendered him vain enough to imagine his alliance would not be refused,
+tho' there was a superiority both of birth and fortune on the side of
+monsieur the baron de Palfoy.</p>
+<p>In a perfect confidence of succeeding in his request, he went to his
+house, and, after some little preparation, proposed a match between his
+son and mademoiselle de Palfoy. The baron was not at all surprized at what
+he said, because he expected, if the young people were kept asunder, an
+offer would be made of this kind; and after hearing calmly all he had to
+say, in order to induce him to give his consent, he told him, that he was
+very sorry he had asked a thing which it was impossible to grant, because
+he had already determined to dispose otherwise of his daughter. Monsieur
+de Coigney then asked to whom. I know not as yet, replied the other, but
+when I said I had determined to dispose her otherways, I only meant to one
+who is of blood at least equal to her own, and who has never, by any
+public debaucheries, rendered himself contemptible to the discreet part of
+mankind.</p>
+<p>De Coigney knew not how either to put up or resent this affront; he
+knew very well that his son had behaved so as to give cause for it, yet
+thought he had other perfections which might over-balance what, by a
+partial indulgence, he looked upon only as the follies of youth; and as
+for the reflection on his family, he told the other, that whatever he was
+he owed to the merit of his ancestors, not his own, and that he doubted
+not but his son would one day raise his name equal to that of Palfoy. In
+fine, the pride of the one, and the vanity of the other, occasioned a
+contest between them, which might have furnished matter for a scene in a
+comedy had any poet been witness of it: the result of it was that they
+agreed in this to be mutually dissatisfied with each other, never to
+converse together any more, and to forbid all communication between their
+families.</p>
+<p>The baron went immediately to his daughter's chamber, and having
+ordered her maid, who was then doing something about her, to leave the
+room, I have wondered, Charlotta, said he, with a countenance that was far
+from betraying the secret vexation of his mind, that you have never, since
+your coming to Paris, expressed the least desire of making a visit at St.
+Germains, tho' the duty you owe a princess, who seems to have a very great
+affection for you, might well have excused any impatience you might have
+testified on that score; besides, you owe a visit to mademoiselle de
+Coigney.</p>
+<p>The princess merits doubtless all the respect I am able to pay her,
+answered she; but, my lord, as it was your pleasure to remove me from that
+palace, I waited till your command should licence my return; as for
+mademoiselle de Coigney, the intimacy between us will excuse those
+ceremonies which are of little weight where there is a real friendship.</p>
+<p>These words confirming all the baron's suspicions, he thought there was
+no need of farther dissimulation, and the long-conceived indignation burst
+out in looks more furious than the trembling Charlotta had ever seen in
+him before.—Yes, degenerate girl! said he, I have but too plain proofs of
+the friendship in which you have linked yourself with the family of the de
+Coigney's;—but tell me, continued he, how dare you engage yourself so far
+without my knowledge? could you ever hope I would consent to an alliance
+with de Coigney?</p>
+<p>De Coigney! cried she, much more assured than she had been before the
+mention of that name, heaven forbid you should have such a thought!</p>
+<p>The resolution and disdain with which she spoke these words a little
+surprized him: what, cried he, have you not encouraged the addresses of
+young de Coigney, and even proceeded so far as to make his father imagine
+there required no more than to ask my consent to a marriage between you!</p>
+<p>How much courage does innocence inspire? Charlotta, of late so timid
+and alarmed while she thought Horatio was in question, was now all
+calmness and composure, when she found de Coigney the person for whom she
+had been suspected. She confessed to her father, with the most settled
+brow, that he had indeed made some offers of an affection for her, but
+said, she had given him such answers, as nothing but the height of
+arrogance and folly could interpret to his advantage; and then, on the
+baron's commanding her, acquainted him with every particular that had
+passed between that young gentleman, his sister, and herself, touching the
+affair she was accused of.</p>
+<p>She was so minute in every circumstance, answered with such readiness
+to all the questions he asked of her, and seemed so perfectly at ease, as
+indeed she was, that the baron could no longer have any doubts of her
+sincerity, and was sorry he had taken her so abruptly from St. Germains:
+he now told her, that she was at liberty to visit there as frequently as
+she pleased, only, as he had been affronted by old monsieur de Coigney, as
+well as to silence all future reports concerning the young gentleman, he
+expected she would break off all acquaintance with mademoiselle. She
+assured him of her obedience in this point, and added, that she could do
+it without any difficulty; for tho' she was a lady who had many good
+qualities, and one for whom she once had a friendship, yet the taking upon
+her to forward her brother's designs had occasioned a strangeness between
+them, which had already more than half anticipated his commands.</p>
+<p>Monsieur the baron de Palfoy was now as well satisfied with his
+daughter as he had lately been the reverse, and she was allowed once more
+all those innocent liberties which the French ladies, above those of any
+other nation in the world, enjoy.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but that the first use she made of liberty was
+to go to St. Germains: she had heard from mademoiselle de Coigney, when
+she came to visit her, that Horatio had been very much indisposed, and at
+that time was not quite recovered, and was impatient to give him all the
+consolation that the sight of her could afford; but fearing she should not
+have an opportunity of speaking to him in private, she wrote a letter,
+containing a full recital of the reason which had induced her father to
+take her from St. Germains, and the happy mistake he had been in
+concerning de Coigney; concluding with letting him know he might sometimes
+visit her at Paris as an indifferent acquaintance, not the least suspicion
+being entertained of him, and the baron now in so good a humour with her,
+that it would not be easy for any one to make him give credit to any
+informations to her prejudice. The whole was dictated by a spirit of
+tenderness, which, tho' it did not plainly confess an affection, implied
+every thing an honourable lover could either expect or hope.</p>
+<p>On her arrival at St. Germains, where there was an extreme full court
+to congratulate the princess Louisa, on the great victories lately gained
+by Charles XII. the brave king of Sweeden, to whom she had been some time
+contracted, she passed directly to her highness's apartment; and the
+Chevalier St. George being then with her, those of his Gentlemen who had
+attended him thither, were waiting in the antichamber: among them was
+Horatio: the alteration of his countenance on sight of her, after this
+absence, was too visible not to have been remarked, had not all present
+been too busy in paying their compliments to her, to take any notice of
+it. He was one of the last that approached, being willing to recover the
+confusion he felt himself in, lest it should have an effect on his voice
+in speaking to her. She, more prepared, received his salute with the same
+gay civility she did the others, but at the same instant slipped the
+letter she had brought with her into his hand.</p>
+<p>Any one who is in the least acquainted with the power of love, may
+guess the transports of Horatio at this condescension; but, impatient to
+know the dear contents, he went out of the room as soon as he found he
+could do it without being observed, and having perused this obliging
+billet, found in it a sufficient cordial to revive that long languishment
+his spirit had been in.</p>
+<p>At his return he found her engaged in conversation with several
+gentlemen and ladies: he mingled in the company, but could expect no other
+satisfaction from it than being near his dear Charlotta, and hearing her
+speak. The Chevalier St. George soon after came out, and he was obliged
+with the rest of his train to quit the place, which at present contained
+the object of his wishes. She went in immediately after to the princess,
+so he saw her no more that day at St. Germains.</p>
+<p>All that now employed his thoughts was a pretence to visit her at her
+father's house; for tho' she had told him in her letter that he might come
+as an ordinary acquaintance, yet knowing that the continuance of their
+conversation depended wholly on the secrecy of it, he was willing to avoid
+giving even the most distant occasions of suspicion.</p>
+<p>Fortune, hitherto favourable to his desires, now presented him with one
+more ample than any thing his own invention could have supplied him with:
+happening to be at Paris in the company of some friends, with whom he
+stayed later than ordinary, he was hurrying thro' the streets in order to
+go to the inn where his servant and horses waited for him, when he heard
+the clashing of swords at some distance from him: guided by his
+generosity, he flew to the place where the noise directed him, and saw by
+the lights, which hang out very thick in that city, one person defending
+himself against three who pressed very hard upon him, and had got him down
+just as Horatio arrived to his relief: he ran among the assaillants; and
+either the greatness of his courage, or the belief that others would come
+to his assistance, threw them into such a consternation, that they all
+sought their safety in their flight, while the person they had attacked
+got up again and thanked his deliverer, without whose timely aid, he said,
+he could have expected nothing but death: those who set upon him being
+robbers, and, as he perceived by their behaviour, desperate wretches, who
+were for securing themselves by taking the lives, as well as money, of
+those who were too weak to resist them: he pointed to a dead body on the
+ground, who he told Horatio was his servant, and had been killed in his
+defence.</p>
+<p>But how transported was our young lover when, he found that the person
+to whom he had done so signal a piece of service, was the father of his
+mistress. As he perceived he had some wounds, tho' they proved but slight,
+he compleated the obligation he had began to confer, by supporting him
+under the arm till he got home, where the baron made him enter with him,
+and would have prevailed with him to stay all night; but Horatio told him
+he could not well dispense with being absent from his post; that it was
+highly proper he should return to St. Germains that night late as it was,
+but would do himself the honour of waiting on him the next day to enquire
+after the state of the wounds he had received.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta was gone to bed; but being rouzed by the
+accident, no sooner was informed by the surgeons, who were immediately
+sent for, that there was nothing dangerous in the hurts her father had
+received, than she blessed heaven for making Horatio the instrument of his
+preservation. The sense the baron seemed to have of this obligation, and
+the praises he bestowed on the gallant manner in which the young gentleman
+came to his relief, made her almost ready to flatter herself that fate
+interested itself in behalf of their love; and indeed monsieur the baron,
+notwithstanding the haughtiness of his nature, had the most just notions
+of gratitude; and to testify it to Horatio, would have refused him scarce
+any thing except his daughter. But however that should happen, she still
+found more and more excuses for indulging the inclinations she had for
+him; and tho' she yet had never given him any such assurances, yet she
+resolved in her own mind, to live only for him.</p>
+<p>The baron being obliged to keep his bed for several days, Horatio had a
+pretence for repeating his visits to him during this time of his
+confinement, and afterwards went often by invitation; the other, besides
+the obligation he had to him, finding something extremely pleasing in his
+conversation, to which (not to take from Horatio's merits) the
+obsequiousness he found no difficulty in himself to behave with towards a
+Man of his age, his quality, and above all, the father of Charlotta, not a
+little contributed.</p>
+<p>The lovers had now frequent opportunities of entertaining each other
+both at Paris and St. Germains: nor were any of those demonstrations which
+virtue and innocence permitted, wanting between them, to render them as
+perfectly easy as people can possibly be, who have yet something to desire,
+and much to fear. But as smooth as now their fortune seemed, they knew not
+how soon a storm might rise, and give a sudden interruption to that
+felicity they enjoyed.—The charms of Charlotta were every day making new
+conquests; and among the number of those who pretended to admire her, how
+probable was it that some one might be thought worthy by her father, and
+she be compelled to receive the addresses of a rival. These were
+reflections too natural not to occur to them both, and whenever they did,
+could not fail of embittering those sweets the certainty of a mutual
+affection had otherwise afforded.</p>
+<p>They had now no trouble from monsieur de Coigney; his father, in order
+to make him forget a hopeless passion, had found an employment for him
+which obliged him to go many leagues from Paris; and once the conversation
+already mentioned at the baron's, his sister and mademoiselle Charlotta,
+by command of their respective parents, as well as their own inclinations,
+broke off all correspondence, nor even spoke to each other, unless when
+happening to meet in a visit, there was no avoiding it; and then it was in
+such a distant manner, and with so much indifference, that none would have
+imagined they ever had been intimate friends and companions.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. IX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>A second separation between Horatio and Charlotta, with some other
+occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>The season of the year now having put an end to the campaign, and the
+French, as well as confederate armies, being retired into their winter
+quarters, the baron de la Valiere, who had always a special permission
+from the general, returned to Paris: Horatio promised himself much
+satisfaction in the renewed society of this friend, and no sooner heard he
+was on the road than he went to meet him. The baron, charm'd with this
+proof of his affection and respect, received him as a brother, and there
+was little less freedom used between them.</p>
+<p>After the mutual testimonies and good-will were over de la Valiere
+began to ask him concerning mademoiselle Charlotta; on which Horatio
+acquainted him with her being removed from St. Germains, and the occasion
+of it, not omitting the arrogance with which old monsieur de Coigney had
+behaved to her father, and the resentment now between the families.</p>
+<p>Well, said the baron, but I hope you have been more successful, at
+least with the young lady: I will never more trust the intelligence of
+eyes, if yours did not hold a very tender intercourse; and I protest to
+you, my dear Horatio, that amidst all the toils and dangers of war, my
+thoughts were often at St. Germains, not envying, but congratulating the
+pleasures you enjoyed in the conversation of that amiable lady.</p>
+<p>I doubt not, replied Horatio with a smile, but we had you with us at a
+place which contained mademoiselle de Coigney; and I am of opinion too she
+was no less frequently in the camp with you; for in spite of all the
+reserve she affected while you were present, she never heard the bare
+mention of your name without emotions, which were very visible in her
+countenance.</p>
+<p>I would not be vain, replied the baron, but I sometimes have flattered
+myself with the hope I was not altogether indifferent to her; tho' for two
+whole years that I have constantly made my addresses to her, I never could
+obtain one soft confession to assure my happiness:—but let me know how
+you have proceeded on the score of mademoiselle Charlotta? believe me, I
+am not so engrossed by my own affairs, as not to give attention to those
+of a friend.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who had been engaged by Charlotta to preserve an inviolable
+secrecy in every thing that had passed between them, without any exception
+of persons, would fain have turned the conversation on some other topic:
+he truly loved the baron, had the highest opinion of his discretion, and
+would have trusted him with the dearest secrets of his life, provided they
+related to himself alone; but he had given his word, his oath, his honour
+to Charlotta, and durst not violate them on any consideration; yet, loth
+to refuse or to deceive his friend, he found himself in the most
+perplexing dilemma. As often as the other spoke of Charlotta, he answered
+with something of de Coigney; but all his artifice was ineffectual, and
+the baron at last saw thro' it, and assuming a very grave countenance, I
+perceive, Horatio, said he, you do not think me worthy your confidence,
+and I was to blame to press you to reveal what you resolve to make a
+mystery of.</p>
+<p>These words made a very deep impression on the grateful soul of him
+they were addressed to; and equally distressed between the necessity of
+either disobliging a person whose generosity he had experienced, or
+falsifying the promise he had made to Charlotta, at last an expedient
+offered to his mind how to avoid both, and yet not be guilty of injuring
+the truth.</p>
+<p>Alas! my lord, answered he, you little know the heart of Horatio, if
+you imagine there be any thing there that would hide itself from you:—I
+freely confess, the charms of mademoiselle Charlotta had such an effect on
+me, that, had I been in circumstances which in the least could have
+flattered me with success, I should long ago have avowed myself her lover:
+but when I reflected on the disparity between us, the humour of her
+father, and a thousand other impediments, I endeavoured to banish so
+hopeless a passion from my breast, and was the more confirmed in my
+resolution to do so by the ill treatment monsieur de Coigney
+received:—besides, her removal from St. Germains, depriving me in a great
+measure of those opportunities I had before of entertaining her, might
+very well contribute to wean off a passion, not settled either by time or
+expectation, of ever being gratified; and I hope, continued he, I shall
+always have so much command over myself as not to become ridiculous by
+aiming at impossibilities.</p>
+<p>Whether the baron gave any credit to what he said on this account or
+not, he had too much politeness to press him any farther; and the
+discourse soon after taking another turn, Horatio was very well pleased to
+think he had got off so well.</p>
+<p>De la Valiere having related to him some particulars of the late
+campaign, which the public accounts had been deficient in, they passed
+from that to some talk of the brave young king of Sweden, a topic which
+filled all Europe with admiration: but the French being a people in whom
+the love of glory is the predominant passion, were more than any other
+nation charmed with the greatness of that prince's soul.</p>
+<p>What indeed has any hero of antiquity to boast of in competition with
+this northern monarch, who conquered and gave away kingdoms for the
+benefit of others, disdaining to receive any other reward for all his vast
+fatigues, than the pleasure of giving a people that person whom he judged
+most worthy to reign over them!</p>
+<p>The baron, who had attended the Count de Guiscard when he was
+residentiary ambassador from his most christian majesty at the Swedish
+court, had an opportunity of seeing more of this monarch than any other
+that Horatio was acquainted with; he therefore, on his requesting it,
+informed him how, at the age of eighteen, he threw off all magnificence,
+forsook the pomp and delicacies of a court he had been bred in, and
+undertook, and compleated the delivery of his brother-in-law, the duke of
+Holstein, from the cruel incursions of the Danes, who had well nigh either
+taken or ravaged the greatest part of his territories. He also set forth,
+in its proper colours, the base part which Peter Alexowitz, czar of
+Muscovy, and Augustus, king of Poland, acted against a prince who was then
+employing his arms in the cause of justice; the latter of these bringing a
+powerful army to take from him one part of his dominions; and the former,
+at the head of an 100,000 men, were plundering the other: but when he
+concluded his little narrative, by reciting how this young conqueror, with
+a handful of brave Swedes, animated by the example of their king, put
+entirely to route all that opposed him, Horatio felt his soul glow with an
+ardour superior even to that of love: he longed to behold a prince who
+seemed to have all the virtues comprized in him, and whose very thoughts,
+as well as actions, might be looked upon as super-natural.</p>
+<p>He is, however, greatly to be pitied, said the baron de la Valiere,
+that the wars he is engaged in, and which, in all probability will be of
+long continuance, hinders him from the possession of the most amiable
+princess in the world, and I dare answer, at least if I may credit those
+about her, she wishes he were of a less martial disposition.</p>
+<p>He will be the more worthy of her, cried Horatio interrupting him, and
+the immortal fame of his actions be a sufficient attonement for all the
+years of expectation that may be its purchase.</p>
+<p>From the time Horatio had this discourse with the baron, the king of
+Sweden was ever uppermost in his thoughts: he had always reflected that,
+in the station he then was, it would be impossible to obtain any more of
+mademoiselle Charlotta than her heart, at least while the baron de Palfoy
+lived, and that a thousand accidents might deprive him of all hopes of
+ever being more happy; but, said he to himself, were I among the number of
+those who attend this hero in his martial exploits, I might at least have
+an opportunity of proving how far fortune would befriend me;—who knows
+but I might be able to do something which might engage that just and
+generous monarch to raise me to a degree capable of avowing my pretensions
+even to her father, and the same blessed day that joined our principals,
+might also make me blessed in the possession of my dear Charlotta.</p>
+<p>With these ideas did he often flatter himself; but the manner in which
+he should accomplish his desires was yet doubtless to him. The chevalier
+St. George treated him with so much kindness, that he had no room to doubt
+his having a great share in his favour; and was fully perswaded, that if
+he communicated his intentions to him, he would vouchsafe to give him
+letters of recommendation to a prince who was to be his brother-in-law:
+but this he feared to ask, lest it should be looked upon as ingratitude
+in him to desire to leave a court where he had been so graciously
+received, and had many favours, besides the perquisites of his post,
+heaped upon him, not only by the chevalier himself, but also by the queen
+and princess, who, following the example of the late king, behaved with a
+kind of natural affection to all the English.</p>
+<p>He sometimes communicated his sentiments on this head to mademoiselle
+Charlotta, who was too discreet not to allow the justness of them; and
+well knew, that in the station her lover now was, they never could be on
+any terms with each other than those they were at present: her reason,
+therefore, and the advantage of her love, made her sometimes wish he would
+follow the dictates of so laudable an ambition; but then the dangers he
+must inevitably be exposed to in following a monarch who never set any
+bounds to his courage, and the thoughts how long it might possibly be
+before she saw him again, alarmed all her tenderness; and he had the
+satisfaction of seeing the tears stand in her eyes whenever they had any
+discourse of this nature; and tho' her words assured him that it was her
+opinion he could not take a more ready way to raise his own fortune, yet
+her looks at the same time made him plainly see how much she would suffer
+in his taking that step.</p>
+<p>Many reasons, both for and against following his inclination in this
+point, presented themselves to him; and he had no sooner, as he thought,
+determined for the one, than the other rose with double vehemence and
+overthrew the former. In this fluctuating situation of mind did he remain
+for some time, and perhaps had done so much longer, had not an accident
+happened which proved decisive, and indeed left him no other party to take
+than that he afterwards did.</p>
+<p>Charlotta, being now entirely mistress of herself, gave him frequent
+meetings in the Tuilleries, judging it safer to converse with him there
+than at the house of any person, whom, in such a case, must be the
+confidante of the whole affair; whereas, if they were seen together in the
+walks, it might be judged they met by accident, and not give any grounds
+of suspicion, which hitherto they had been so fortunate as to avoid.</p>
+<p>It was in one of those appointments, when entered into a very tender
+conversation, they forgot themselves so far as to suffer the moon to rise
+upon them: the stillness of the evening, and the little company which
+happened to be there that night, seemed to indulge their inclinations of
+continuing in so sweet a recess:—they were seated on a bench at the foot
+of a large tree, when Charlotta, in answer to some tender professions he
+had been making, said, depend on this, Horatio, that as you are the first
+who has ever been capable of making me sensible of love, so nothing shall
+have power to change my sentiments while you continue to deserve, or to
+desire I should think of you as I now do. He shall not long continue to
+desire it,—cried a voice behind them, and immediately rushed from the
+other side of the thicket a man with his sword drawn, and ran full upon
+Horatio, who not having time to be upon his guard, had certainly fallen a
+victim to his rival's fury, had not a gentleman seized his arm, and, by
+superior strength, forced him some paces back.—Are you mad, monsieur,
+said he; do you forget the place you are in, or the danger you so lately
+escaped for an enterprize of this nature?</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta, now a little recovered from her first,
+surprize, and knowing it was young monsieur de Coigney who had given her
+this alarm, had presence enough of mind to ask how he dared, after he knew
+her own and father's resolution, to disturb her, or any company she had
+with her? he made no reply, but reflecting that there were other ways than
+fighting, by which he might be revenged, went hastily away with that
+friend who had hindered him from executing his rash purpose; but they
+could hear that he muttered something which seemed a menace against them
+both.</p>
+<p>How impossible is it to express the consternation our lovers now were
+in: they found by the repetition monsieur de Coigney made of the words she
+spoke, that what they had so long and so successfully laboured to conceal,
+was now betrayed:—betrayed to one who would not fail to make the most
+malicious use of the discovery, and doubted not but the affair would
+become the general talk, perhaps to the prejudice of Charlotta's
+reputation; but the least thing either could expect, was to be separated
+for ever.</p>
+<p>Horatio, full of disturbed emotions, conducted his disconsolate
+mistress to the gate of the Tuilleries, and there took a farewel of her,
+which he had too much reason to fear would be his last, at least for a
+long time. He was tempted by his first emotions to seek de Coigney, and
+call him to account for the affront he had put upon him, and either lose
+his own life, or oblige the other to secrecy; but then he considered, that
+there was some probability he would not dare to own that he had given
+himself any concern about mademoiselle Charlotta, after the injunction
+laid on him by his father, much less as he had attempted a duel in her
+cause, having, as has been already mentioned, been before guilty of a like
+offence against the laws, which in that country are very strict, on
+account of madame de Olonne; and this prevailed with him to be passive as
+to what had happened, till he should hear how the other would behave, and
+find what turn the affair would take.</p>
+<p>Charlotta in the mean time was in the most terrible anxieties:—she
+could not imagine what had brought monsieur de Coigney, who she thought
+had been many miles distant, so suddenly to Paris: but on making some
+private enquiry, she was informed, that having met some difficulty in the
+execution of his office, he had taken post, in order to lay his complaints
+before the king, and had arrived that very day.—She now blamed her own
+inadvertency in holding any discourse with Horatio, of a nature not proper
+to be over-heard, in a place so public as the Tuilleries, where others, as
+well as he, might have possibly been witnesses of what was said.</p>
+<p>Young monsieur de Coigney suffered little less from the turbulence of
+his nature, and the mortification it gave his vanity, to find a person,
+whom he looked upon as every way his inferior, preferred to him. His
+thoughts were wholly bent on revenge; but in what manner he should
+accomplish it, he was for some time uncertain: when he acquainted his
+father with the discovery he had made, and the resentment he had testified
+against this unworthy rival, as he called him, the old gentleman blamed
+him for taking any notice of it. Let them love on, son, said he; let them
+marry;—we shall then have a fine opportunity of reproaching the haughty
+baron with his new alliance. This did not however satisfy monsieur de
+Coigney: all the love he once had for mademoiselle Charlotta was now
+turned into hate; and in spite of his father's commands not to meddle in
+the affair, he could not help throwing out some reflections among his
+companions, very much to the disadvantage of the young lady's reputation.
+But these might possibly have blown over, as he had but a small time to
+vent his malice. His father knowing the violence of his temper, in order
+to prevent any ill consequences, compelled him to return to his
+employment; taking upon himself the management of that business which had
+brought him so unluckily to Paris.</p>
+<p>But mademoiselle de Coigney had no sooner been informed by her brother
+of the discovery he had made, than she doubted not that it was on the
+score of Horatio that he had met with such ill success in his courtship;
+and also imagined, that it had been owing to some ill impressions
+mademoiselle Charlotta had given the baron de Palfoy, that her father had
+been treated by him in the manner already recited. She complained of it to
+the baron de la Valiere, and told him, her whole family had been
+affronted, and her brother rendered miserable, for the sake of a young
+man, who, said she, can neither have birth or fortune to boast of, since
+he has been so long a prisoner without any ransom paid, or interposition
+offered to redeem him.</p>
+<p>The baron was too generous not to vindicate the merits of Horatio, as
+much as was consistent with his love and complaisance for his mistress: he
+was notwithstanding very much picqued in his mind that a person, to whom
+he had given the greatest proofs of a sincere and disinterested
+friendship, should have concealed a secret of this nature from him, and
+the more so, as he had seemed to expect and desire his confidence. From
+this time forward he behaved to him with a coldness which was sufficient
+to convince the other of the motive, especially as he found mademoiselle
+de Coigney took all opportunities of throwing the most picquant
+reflections on him. It is certain that lady was so full of spight at the
+indignity she thought her family had received, that she could not help
+whispering the attachment of Horatio and Charlotta, not only at St.
+Germains, but at Paris also, with inunendo's little less cruel than those
+her brother had made use of to his companions; so that between them, the
+amour was talked of among all who were acquainted with either of them.</p>
+<p>At length the report reached the ears of the baron de Palfoy, who, tho'
+he did not immediately give an entire credit to it, thought it became him
+to do every thing in his power to silence it.</p>
+<p>Accordingly he called his daughter to him one day, and having told her
+the liberty which the world took in censuring her conduct on Horatio's
+account, commanded her to avoid all occasions of it for the future, by
+seeing him no more.</p>
+<p>The confusion she was in, and which she had not artifice wholly to
+conceal from the penetrating baron, more convinced him, than all he had
+been told, that there was in reality some tender intercourse between them;
+but resolving to be fully ascertained, he said no more to her at that
+time, but dispatched a messenger immediately to St. Germains, desiring
+Horatio to come to him the same day.</p>
+<p>The lover readily obeyed this summons, but not without some
+apprehensions of the motive: the hints daily given him, joined to the
+alteration, not only in the behaviour of mademoiselle de Coigney, but
+likewise of the baron de la Valiere, gave him but too just room to fear
+his passion was no longer a secret.</p>
+<p>The father of Charlotta received him with great courtesy, but nothing
+of that pleasantness with which he had looked on him ever since he had
+defended him from the robbers. Horatio, said he, I am indebted to you for
+my life, and would willingly make what recompence is in my power for the
+obligation I have to you:—think therefore what I can do for you; and if
+your demands exceed not what is fit for you to ask, or would become me to
+grant, you may be assured of my compliance.</p>
+<p>The astonishment Horatio was in at these words is impossible to be
+expressed; but having an admirable presence of mind, my lord, answered he,
+I should be unworthy of the favours you do me, could I be capable of
+presuming on them so far as to make any requests beyond the continuance of
+them.</p>
+<p>No, Horatio, resumed the baron, I acknowledge my gratitude has been too
+deficient, since it has extended only to those civilities which are due to
+your merit, exclusive of any obligation; the conversation we have had
+together has hitherto afforded a pleasure to myself, and it is with a good
+deal of mortification I now find a necessity to break it off:—I would
+therefore have the satisfaction of doing something that might convince you
+of my esteem, at the same time that I desire you to refrain your visits.</p>
+<p>Not all Horatio's courage could enable him to stand this shock, without
+testifying some part of what passed in his mind:—he was utterly incapable
+of making any reply, tho' the silence of the other shewed he expected it,
+but stood like one confounded, and conscious of deserving the banishment
+he heard pronounced against him.—At last recollecting himself a
+little,—my lord, said he, I see not how I can be happy enough to preserve
+any part of your esteem, since looked upon as unworthy an honour you were
+once pleased to confer upon me.</p>
+<p>You affect, said the baron, a slowness of apprehension, which is far
+from being natural to you, and perhaps imagine, that by not seeming to
+understand me, I should believe there were no grounds for me to forbid
+you my house; but, young man, I am not so easily deceived; and since you
+oblige me to speak plain, must tell you, I am sorry to find you have
+entertained any projects, which, if you had the least consulted your
+reason, you would have known could never be accomplished.—In fine,
+Horatio, what you make so great a mystery of, may be explained in three
+words:—I wish you well as a friend, but cannot think of making you my
+son:—I would recompence what you have done for me with any thing but my
+daughter, and as a proof of my concern for your happiness, I exclude you
+from all society with her, in order to prevent so unavailing a passion
+from taking too deep a root.</p>
+<p>Ah, my lord, cried Horatio, perceiving all dissimulation would be vain,
+the man who once adored mademoiselle de Palfoy can never cease to do so.
+He ought therefore, replied the baron, without being moved, to consider
+the consequences well before he begins to adore:—if I had been consulted
+in the matter I should have advised you better; but it is now too late,
+and all I can do is to prevent your ever meeting more:—this, Horatio, is
+all I have to say, and that if in any other affair I can be serviceable to
+you, communicate your request in writing, and depend on its being granted.</p>
+<p>In speaking these last words he withdrew, and left Horatio in a
+situation of mind not easy to be conceived.—He was once about to entreat
+him to turn back, but had nothing to offer which could make him hope would
+prevail on him to alter his resolution.—He never had been insensible of
+the vast disparity there was at present between him and the noble family
+of de Palfoy: he could expect no other, or rather worse treatment than
+what he had now received, if his passion was ever discovered, and had no
+excuse to make for what himself allowed so great a presumption.</p>
+<p>With a countenance dejected, and a heart oppressed with various
+agitations, did he quit the house which contained what was most valuable
+to him in the world, while poor Charlotta endured, if possible, a greater
+shock.</p>
+<p>The baron de Palfoy, now convinced that all he had been informed of was
+ true, was more incensed against her than he had been on the mistaken
+ supposition of her being influenced in favour of monsieur de Coigney: he
+ had no sooner left Horatio than he flew to her apartment, and reproached
+ her in terms the most severe that words could form.—It was in vain she
+ protested that she never had any design of giving herself to Horatio
+ without having first received his permission.—He looked on all she said
+ as an augmentation of her crime, and soon came to a determination to put
+ it past her power to give him more than she had already done.</p>
+<p>Early next morning he sent her, under the conduct of a person he could
+confide in, to a monastry about thirty miles from Paris, without even
+letting her know whither she was about being carried, or giving her the
+least notice of her departure till the coach was at the door, into which
+he put, her himself with these words,—adeiu Charlotta, expect not to see
+Paris, or me again, till you desire no more to see Horatio.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. X.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The reasons that induced Horatio to leave France; with the chevalier
+St. George's behaviour on knowing his resolution. He receives an
+unexpected favour from the baron de Palfoy.</i></p>
+<p>While Charlotta, under the displeasure of her father, and divided,
+as she believed, for ever from her lover, was pursuing her melancholy
+journey, Horatio was giving way to a grief which knew no bounds, and which
+preyed with the greater feirceness on his soul, as he had no friend to
+whom he could disburden it. The baron's estrang'd behaviour was no small
+addition to his other discontents, and he lamented the cruel necessity
+which had enforced him to disoblige a person to whom he owed so many
+favours, and whose advice would now have been the greatest consolation.</p>
+<p>He could not now hope Charlotta would be permitted to come to St.
+Germains, and doubted not but her father would take effectual methods to
+prevent her visiting at any place where even accident might occasion a
+meeting between them: he knew the watch had been set over her on the
+account of monsieur de Coigney, and might be assured it would not now be
+less strict, and that it would be equally impossible for either to
+communicate their thoughts by writing as it was to see each other.</p>
+<p>He was in the midst of these reflections when he heard, by some people
+who were acquainted with the baron de Palfoy, that he had sent his
+daughter away, but none knew where: this, instead of lessening his
+despair, was a very great aggravation of it:—he imagined she was confined
+in some monastry, and was not insensible of the difficulties that attend
+seeing a young lady who is sent there purposely to avoid the world; yet,
+said he to himself, could I be happy enough to discover even to what
+province she was carried, I would go from convent to convent till I had
+found which of them contained her.</p>
+<p>It was in vain that he made all possible enquiry: every one he asked
+was in reality as ignorant as himself.—The baron de Palfoy had trusted
+none, so could not be deceived but by those persons who had the charge of
+conducting her, and of their fidelity he had many proofs. Yet how
+impossible is it for human prudence to resist the decrees of fate.—The
+secret was betrayed, without any one being guilty of accusing the
+confidence reposed in them, and by the strangest accident that perhaps
+ever was, Horatio learned all he wished to know when he had given over all
+his endeavours for that purpose, and was totally despairing of it.</p>
+<p>He came one day to Paris, in order to alleviate his melancholy, in the
+company of some young gentlemen, who had expressed a very great regard for
+him; but his mind being taken up with various and perplexed thoughts on
+his entrance into that city, he mistook his way, and turned into the rue
+St. Dennis instead of the rue St. Honore, where he had been accustomed to
+leave his horses and servant.—He found his error just as he was passing
+by a large inn, and it being a matter of indifference to him where he put
+up, would not turn back, but ordered his man to alight here.—I forgot
+where I was going, said he, but I suppose the horses will be taken as much
+care of at this house as where we used to go. I shall see to that, replied
+the fellow. Horatio stepped into a room to take some refreshment while his
+servant went to the stable, but had not been there above a minute before
+he heard very high words between some people in the yard; and as he turned
+towards the window, saw a man in the livery of the baron de Palfoy, and
+whom he presently knew to be the coachman of that nobleman. He was hot in
+dispute with the innkeeper concerning a horse which he had hired of him,
+and, as the other insisted, drove so hard that he had killed him. The
+coachman denied the accusation; but the innkeeper told him he had
+witnesses to prove the horse died two hours after he was brought home,
+and declared, that if he had not satisfaction for his beast, he would
+complain to the baron, and if he did not do him justice, have recourse to
+law.—There was a long argument between them concerning the number of
+miles, the hours they drove, and the weight of the carriage.—Among other
+things the innkeeper alledged, that he saw them as he passed his corner,
+and there were so many trunks, boxes, and other luggage behind and before
+the coach, besides the company that was in it, that it required eight
+horses instead of six to draw it. Why then, said the coachman, did it not
+kill our horses as well as yours; if they had been equally good, they
+would have held out equally.—I do not pretend mine was as good, replied
+the innkeeper, I cannot afford to feed my horses as my lord does; but yet
+he was a stout gelding, and if he had not been drove so very hard, and
+perhaps otherwise ill used into the bargain, he would have been alive now.</p>
+<p>All this was sufficient to make Horatio imagine it was for the journey
+which deprived him of his dear Charlotta, that this horse had been hired,
+so tarried in the place where he was till the debate was over, which ended
+not to the satisfaction of the innkeeper, who swore he would not be fooled
+out of his money. As soon as the coachman was gone, Horatio called him in,
+and asked what was the matter, and who it was that endeavoured to impose
+upon him? on which the innkeeper readily told him, that on such a day this
+coachman came to him and hired a horse in order to make up a set to go to
+Rheines in Champaigne, my lord-baron having three or four sick in the
+stable at that time.—Two days after, said he, my horse was brought home
+all in a foam, and fell down dead in less than three hours, and yet this
+rascally coachman refuses to pay me for him.</p>
+<p>Horatio humoured him in all he said, and let him go on his own way till
+he had vented his whole stock of railing, and then asked him what company
+were in the coach. The innkeeper replied, that there was one man and two
+women, but did not know who they were, for their faces were muffled up in
+their hoods. This was sufficient for him to be assured it was no other
+than Charlotta, with her woman, and some friend whom the baron had sent
+with them. The day mentioned, being the very same he had been informed she
+was carried away, was also another confirmation; and he had not only the
+happiness of knowing where his mistress was, but of knowing it by such
+means as could give the baron no suspicion of his being acquainted with
+it, and therefore make him think it necessary to remove her.</p>
+<p>Having gained this intelligence, which yet he was no better for than
+the hope of being able to get a sight of her thro' the grate, which he was
+resolved to accomplish some way or other, he resumed his design of going
+into the army of the king of Sweden. As a perfect knowledge of the many
+excellent qualities of the chevalier St. George, made him regard and love
+him with an affection beyond what is ordinarily to be met with from a
+servant to his master, he felt an extreme repugnance to quit him, and yet
+more in breaking a matter to him which, while it testified a confidence in
+the goodness of him whose assistance he must implore, he thought, at the
+same time, would be looked on as ingratitude in himself; and he was some
+time deliberating in what manner he should do it; and it would have been
+perhaps a great while before he could have found words which he would have
+thought proper for the purpose, if he had not taken an opportunity, which,
+without any design of his own, offered itself to him.</p>
+<p>The chevalier St. George took a particular pleasure in the game of
+Chess; and Horatio having learned it among the officers in Campaine,
+frequently played with him: they were one evening at this diversion, when
+the lover of Charlotta having his mind a little perplexed, placed his men
+so ill, that the chevalier beat him out at every motion. How is this,
+Horatio, cried he; you used to play better than I, butt now I have the
+advantage of you.—May you always have it, sir, replied he with the utmost
+respect, over all who pretend to oppose you.—Chess is a kind of emblem of
+war, where policy should go hand in hand with courage; and there is a
+great master in that art, whom if I were some time to serve under, I
+flatter myself that I should be able to know how to move my men with
+better success than I have done to night; but then my skill should be
+employed only against such as are your enemies.</p>
+<p>You mean my brother Charles of Sweden, said the chevalier smiling, but
+I believe he seldom plays. Never, but when kingdoms are at stake, resumed
+Horatio; and if a day should come when you, sir, shall attempt the prize,
+how fortunate would it be for me to have learned to serve you as I am
+obliged by much more than my duty, by the most natural and inviolable
+attachment of my heart, which would render it the greatest blessing I
+could receive from heaven. I believe, indeed, returned the chevalier St.
+George, you love me enough to fight in my cause whenever occasion offers.
+I would not only fight, but die, cried Horatio warmly; yet I would wish to
+have the skill to make a great number of your enemies die before me. Well,
+said the chevalier, we will talk of this to-morrow; in the mean time play
+as well as you can against me at St. Germains: in another place perhaps
+you may play for me. Horatio made no other reply to these words than a low
+bow, and then elating his hands and eyes to heaven, as internally praying
+for the opportunity his master seemed to hint at.</p>
+<p>The impression this little conversation made on the mind of the
+chevalier St. George, proved itself in its effects the very next day.
+Horatio being ordered to come into his chamber early in the morning,—I
+have been thinking on what passed last night between us, said he, and if
+you have a serious Intention of doing what you seemed to hint at, will
+contribute all I can to forward you.</p>
+<p>Ah sir! cried Horatio, falling at his feet, impute not, I beseech you,
+this desire in me to any thing but the extreme desire I have to render
+myself worthy of the favours you have been pleased to confer upon me, and
+to be able to serve you whenever any happy occasion shall present itself.</p>
+<p>No more, Horatio, replied the chevalier, with a sweetness and
+affability peculiar to himself; I am perfectly assured of your duty and
+affection to me, and am so far from taking it ill that you desire to quit
+my court on this score, that I think, your ambition highly laudable:—I
+will write letters of recommendation, with my own hand, to my brother
+Charles, and to some others in his camp, which I doubt not but will
+procure you a reception answerable to your wishes:—therefore, as it is a
+long journey you are to take, the sooner you provide for your departure
+the better:—I will order you out of my privy purse 2000 crowns towards
+your expences.</p>
+<p>Horatio found it impossible to express how much this goodness touched
+his soul; nor could do it any otherwise than by prostrating himself a
+second time, embracing his knees, and uttering some incoherent
+acclamations, which more shewed to his master the sincerity of his
+gratitude, and the perfect love he bore him, than the most elegant
+speeches could have done.</p>
+<p>After all possible demonstrations of the most gracious benignity on the
+one side, and reverence on the other, Horatio quitted the presence, and
+went to sir Thomas Higgons, who at that time was privy purse, and one of
+the finest gentlemen that ever England bred, and acquainted him with the
+chevalier St. George's goodness to him, and the change that was going to
+be made in his fortune: he thanked him in the politest manner for being
+made the first that should congratulate him, and told him, he did not
+doubt but he should see him return covered with laurels, and enriched with
+honours, by the most glorious and grateful monarch the world had to boast
+of. The whole court, whose esteem the good qualities, handsome person, and
+agreeable behaviour of Horatio had entirely gained, seemed to partake in
+his satisfaction, and he was so engrossed with the preparations for his
+departure, and receiving the compliments made him, that tho' he was far
+from forgetting Charlotta, yet the languishment which her absence had
+occasioned was entirely banished, and he now appeared all life and
+spirit.—So true it is that idleness is the food of soft desires.</p>
+<p>It must be confessed, indeed, that love had a very great share in
+reviving in him those martial inclinations, which for a time had seemed
+lulled to rest, since it was to render himself in a condition which might
+give him hope of obtaining the object of his love that now pushed him on
+to war. He resolved also to make Rheines in his way to Poland, where the
+king of Sweden then was pursuing his conquests, and see, if possible, his
+dear Charlotta, before he left France; and as he was of a more than
+ordinary sanguine disposition, he was much sooner elated with the prospect
+of success in any undertaking he went about, than dejected at the
+disappointment of it.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere, whose friendship over-balanced his resentment,
+now gave an instance of his generosity, which, as things had stood of late
+between them, Horatio was far from expecting. That nobleman came to his
+apartment one day with a letter in his hand, and accosting him with the
+familiarity he had been accustomed to treat him with before their
+estrangement,—Horatio, said he, I cannot suffer you to leave us without
+giving you what testimonies of good-will are in my power:—you are now
+going among strangers, and tho' after the recommendations I hear you are
+to carry with you from the chevalier St. George, nothing can be added to
+assure you of the king of Sweden's favour, yet as many brave actions are
+lost for want of a proper representation of them, and the eyes of kings
+cannot be every where, it may be of some service to you to have general
+Renchild your friend: I once had the honour of a particular acquaintance
+with that great man, and I believe this letter, which I beg the favour of
+you to deliver to him, will in part convince him of your merit, before you
+may have an opportunity of proving it to him by your actions.</p>
+<p>Horatio took the letter out of his hand, which he had presented to him
+at the conclusion of his speech; and charmed with this behaviour, the
+satisfaction I should take, said he, in this mark of your forgiving
+goodness, would be beyond all bounds, were I not conscious how far I
+have been unworthy of it; and that I fear the same goodness, always
+partial to me, may have in this paper (meaning the letter) endeavoured to
+give the general an idea of me which I may not be able to preserve.</p>
+
+<p>I look upon myself to be the best judge of that, replied the baron with
+a smile; and you may remember, that on a very different occasion I saw
+into your sentiments before you were well acquainted with the nature of
+them yourself.</p>
+<p>As Horatio knew these words referred to the discourse that had passed
+between them concerning his then infant passion for mademoiselle
+Charlotta, he could not help blushing; but de la Valiere perceiving he had
+given him some confusion, would have turned the discourse, had not the
+other thought fit to continue it, by letting him know the real motive
+which had constrained him to act with the reserve he had done on that
+score.</p>
+<p>The baron de la Valiere assured him that he should think no more of it;
+and tho' at first he had taken it a little amiss, yet when he came to
+reflect on the circumstance, he could not but confess he should have
+behaved in the same manner himself.</p>
+<p>The renewal of the former friendship between them, greatly added to the
+contentment Horatio at present enjoyed; but soon after he received such an
+augmentation of it, as he could never have imagined, much less have
+flattered himself with the hope of.</p>
+<p>Some few days before his departure, a servant of the baron de Palfoy
+came to him to let him know his lord sent his compliments, and desired to
+speak with him at his own house. The message seemed so improbable, that
+Horatio could scarce give credit to it, and imagined the man had been
+mistaken in the person to whom he delivered it, till he repeated over and
+over again that it was to no other he was sent.</p>
+<p>Had it been any other than the father of mademoiselle Charlotta, who
+had invited him to a house he had been once forbid, he scarce would have
+obeyed the summons; but as it was he, the awful person who gave being to
+that charmer of his soul, he sent the most respectful answer, and the same
+day took horse for Paris, and attended the explanation of an order which
+at present seemed so misterious to him.</p>
+<p>The baron was no sooner informed he was there, than he came into the
+parlour with a countenance, which had in it all the marks of good humour
+and satisfaction; Horatio, said he, after having made him seat himself, I
+doubt not but you think me your enemy, after the treatment I gave you the
+last time you were here; but I assure you, I suffered no less myself in
+forbidding you my house, than you could do in having what you might think
+an affront put upon you:—but, continued he after a pause, you ought to
+consider I am a father, that Charlotta is my only child, that my whole
+estate, and what is of infinite more consideration with me, the honour of
+my family, must all devolve on her, and that I am under obligations not to
+be dispensed with, to dispose of her in such a manner as shall not any way
+degrade the ancestry she is sprung from.—I own your merits:—I also am
+indebted to you for my life:—but you are a foreigner, your family
+unknown,—your fortune precarious:—I could wish it were
+otherwise;—believe, I find in myself an irresistable impulse to love you,
+and I know nothing would give me greater pleasure than to convince you of
+it.—In fine, there is nothing but Charlotta I would refuse you.</p>
+<p>The old lord uttered all this with so feeling an accent that Horatio
+was very much moved at it; but unable to guess what would be the
+consequence of this strange preparation, and not having any thing to ask
+of him but the only thing he had declared he would not grant, he only
+thanked him for the concern he was pleased to express, and said, that
+perhaps there might come a time in which the obscurity he was in at
+present would be enlightened; at least, cried he, I shall have the
+satisfaction of endeavouring to acquire by merit what I am denied by
+fortune.</p>
+<p>I admire this noble ambition in you, replied the baron de Palfoy;
+pursue these laudable views, and doubt not of success:—it would be an
+infinite pleasure to me to see you raised so high, that I should
+acknowledge an alliance with you the greatest honour I could hope: and to
+shew you with how much sincerity I speak,—here is a letter I have wrote
+to count Piper, the first minister and favourite of the king of Sweden;
+when you deliver this to him, I am certain you will be convinced by his
+reception of you, that you are one whose interest I take no inconsiderable
+part in.</p>
+<p>With these words he gave him a letter directed, as he had said, but not
+sealed, which Horatio, after he had manifested the sense he had of so
+unhoped an obligation, reminded him of. As it concerns only yourself, said
+the baron, it is proper you should read it first, and I will then put on
+my signet.</p>
+<p>Horatio on this unfolded it, and found it contained such high
+commendations of him, and such pressing entreaties to that minister to
+contribute all he could to his promotion, that it seemed rather dictated
+by the fondness of a parent, than by one who had taken so much pains to
+avoid being so. O, my lord! cried he, as soon as he had done perusing it,
+how much do you over-rate the little merit I am master of, yet how little
+regard a passion which is the sole inspirer of it! what will avail all the
+glory I can acquire, if unsuccessful in my love!</p>
+<p>Let us talk no more of that, said the baron de Palfoy, you ought to be
+satisfied I do all for you in my power to do at present:—other
+opportunities may hereafter arrive in which you may find the continuance
+of my friendship, and a grateful remembrance of the good office you did
+me; but to engage me to fulfil my obligations without any reluctance on my
+part, you must speak to me no more on a theme which I cannot hear without
+emotions, such as I would by no means give way to.</p>
+<p>Horatio gave a deep sigh, but presumed not to reply; the other, to
+prevent him, turned the conversation on the wonderful actions of that
+young king into whose service he was going to enter; but the lover had
+contemplations of a different nature which he was impatient to indulge,
+therefore made his visit as short as decency and the favour he had just
+received would permit. The baron at parting gave him a very affectionate
+embrace, and told him, he should rejoice to hear of his success by letters
+from him as often as the places and employments he should be in would
+allow him to write.</p>
+<p>Let any one form, if they can, an idea suitable to the present
+situation of Horatio's mind at so astonishing an incident: impossible it
+was for him to form any certain conjecture on the baron de Palfoy's
+behaviour; some of his expressions seemed to flatter him with the highest
+expectations of future happiness, while others, he thought, gave him
+reason to despair:—sometimes he imagined that it was to his pride and the
+greatness of his spirit, which would not suffer him to let any obligation
+go unrequited, that he owed what had been just now done for him.—But when
+he reflected on the contents of the letter to count Piper, he could not
+help thinking they were dictated by something more than an enforced
+gratitude:—he remembered too that he promised him the continuation of his
+friendship, and had given some hints during the conversation, as if time
+and some accidents, which might possibly happen, might give a turn to his
+affairs even on Charlotta's account.—On the whole it appeared most
+reasonable to conclude, that if he could by any means raise his fortune in
+the world to the pitch the baron had determined for his daughter, he would
+not disapprove their loves; and in this belief he could not but think
+himself as fortunate as he could expect to be, since he never had been
+vain enough to imagine, that in his present circumstances he might hope
+either the consent of the father, or the ratification of the daughter's
+affection.</p>
+<p>Every thing being now ready for his departure, he took leave of the
+chevalier St. George, who seemed to be under a concern for losing him,
+which only the knowledge how great an advantage this young gentleman would
+receive by it, could console: the queen also gave him a letter from
+herself to her intended son-in-law; and the charming princess Louisa, with
+blushes, bid him tell the king of Sweden, he had her prayers and wishes
+for success in all his glorious enterprizes.</p>
+<p>Thus laden with credentials which might assure him of a reception equal
+to the most ambitious aim of his aspiring soul, he set out from Paris, not
+without some tender regret at quitting a place where he had been treated
+with such uncommon and distinguished marks of kindness and respect. But
+these emotions soon gave way to others more transporting:—he was on his
+journey towards Rheines, the place which contained his beloved Charlotta;
+and the thoughts that every moment brought him still nearer to her filled
+him with extacies, which none but those who truly love can have any just
+conception of.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Rheines, finds means to see mademoiselle
+Charlotta and afterwards pursues his journey to Poland</i>.</p>
+<p>The impatience Horatio had to be at Rheines made him travel very hard
+till he reached that city; nor did he allow himself much time for repose
+after his fatigue, till having made a strict enquiry at all the
+monasteries, he at length discovered where mademoiselle Charlotta was
+placed.</p>
+<p>Hitherto he had been successful beyond his hopes; but the greatest
+difficulty was not yet surmounted: he doubted not but as such secrecy had
+been used in the carrying her from Paris, and of the place to which she
+had been conveyed, that the same circumspection would be preserved in
+concealing her from the sight of any stranger that should come to the
+monastry:—he invented many pretences, but none seemed satisfactory to
+himself, therefore could not expect they would pass upon
+others.—Sometimes he thought of disguising himself in the habit of a
+woman, his youth, and the delicacy of his complexion making him imagine he
+might impose on the abbess and the nuns for such; but then he feared being
+betrayed, by not being able to answer the questions which would in all
+probability be asked him.—He endeavoured to find out some person that was
+acquainted there; but tho' he asked all the gentlemen, which were a great
+many, that dined at the same Hotel with him, he was at as great a loss as
+ever. He went to the chapel every hour that mass was said, but could
+flatter himself with no other satisfaction from that than the empty one of
+knowing he was under the same roof with her; for the gallery in which the
+ladies sit, pensioners, as well as those who have taken the veil, are so
+closely grated, that it is impossible for those below to distinguish any
+object.</p>
+<p>He was almost distracted when he had been there three or four days
+without being able to find any expedient which he could think likely to
+succeed:—he knew not what to resolve on;—time pressed him to pursue his
+journey;—every day, every hour that he lost from prosecuting the glorious
+hopes he had in view, struck ten thousand daggers to his soul:—but then
+to go without informing the dear object of his wishes how great a part she
+had in inspiring his ambition,—without assuring her of his eternal
+constancy and faith, and receiving some soft condescensions from her to
+enable him to support so long an absence as he in all probability must
+endure.—All this, I say, was a shock to thought, which, had he not been
+relieved from, would have perhaps abated great part of that spirit which
+it was necessary for him to preserve, in order to agree with the
+recommendatory letters he carried with him.</p>
+<p>He was just going out of the chapel full of unquiet meditations, when
+passing by the confessional, a magdalen curiously painted which hung near
+it attracted his eyes: as he was admiring the piece, something fell from
+above and hit against his arm; he stooped to take it up, and found it a
+small ivory tablet: he looked up, but could see the shadow of nothing
+behind the grate: imagining it only an accident, and not knowing to whom
+to return it, he put it in his pocket, but was no sooner out of the chapel
+than curiosity excited him to see what it contained, which he had no
+sooner done than in the first leaf he found these words: <br/>
+<br/>
+"As I imagine you did not come this long journey<br/>
+without a desire to see me, it would be too ungrateful<br/>
+not to assist your endeavours:—come a little before<br/>
+vespers, and enquire of the portress for mademoiselle<br/>
+du Pont;—say you are her brother, and leave the rest to me."</p>
+<p>There was no name subscribed; but the dear characters, tho' evidently
+wrote in haste and with a pencil, which made some alteration in the
+fineness of the strokes, convinced him it came from no other than
+Charlotta; and never were any hours so tedious to him as those which past
+between the receiving this appointment, and that of the fulfilling it.</p>
+<p>At length the wish'd-for time arrived, and he repaired to the gate,
+where telling the portress, as he was ordered, that he was the brother of
+mademoiselle du Pont, he was immediately brought into the parlour, where
+he had not waited long before a young lady appeared behind the grate: as
+he found it was not her he expected, he was a little at a loss, and not
+without some apprehensions that his imagination had deceived him: I know
+not, madame, said he, if chance has not made me mistaken for some happier
+person:—I thought to find a sister here.—No, replied she laughing,
+Horatio shall find me a sister in my good offices;—mademoiselle Charlotta
+will be here immediately;—she has counterfeited an indisposition to avoid
+going to vespers, and obtained permission for me to stay with her;—so
+that every thing is right, and as soon as the choir is gone into chapel
+you will see her. It would be needless to repeat the transports Horatio
+uttered on this occasion, so I shall only say they were such as convinced
+mademoiselle du Pont, that her fair friend had not made this condescension
+to a man ungrateful for, or insensible of the obligation. He was indeed so
+lost in them, that he scarce remembered to pay those compliments to the
+lady for her generous assistance which it merited from him; but she easily
+forgave any unpoliteness he might be guilty of on that score; and he so
+well attoned for it after he had given vent to the sudden emotions of his
+joy, that she looked, upon him as the most accomplished, as well as the
+most faithful of his sex. They had entered into some discourse of the
+rules of the monastry, and how impossible it would have been for him to
+have gained an interview with mademoiselle Charlotta, but by the means she
+had contrived;—she told him that young lady had seen him for several
+days, and not doubling but it was for her sake he came, had resolved to
+run any risque rather than he should depart without obtaining so small a
+consolation as the sight of her was capable of affording. Horatio, by the
+most passionate expressions, testified how dearly he prized what she had
+seemed to think of so little value, when the expected charmer of his soul
+drew near the grate.—All that can be conceived of tender and endearing
+past between them; but when he related to her the occasion of his coming,
+and that change of life he now was entering upon, she listened to him with
+a mixture of pleasure and anxiety:—she rejoiced with him on the great
+prospects he had in view; but the terror of the dangers he was plunging in
+was all her own. She was far, however, from discouraging him in his
+designs, and concealed not her admiration of the greatness of his spirit,
+and that love of glory which seemed to render him capable of undertaking
+any thing.</p>
+<p>But when she heard in what manner her father had treated him, she was
+all astonishment: as she knew his temper perfectly well, she was certain
+he would not have acted in the manner he did without being influenced to
+it by a very strong liking for Horatio; for tho' gratitude for the good
+office he had received at his hands might have engaged him to make some
+requital, yet there were several expressions which Horatio, who remembered
+all he said, with the utmost exactness repeated to her, that convinced her
+he would not have made use of, if he had not meant the person better than
+he at present would have him think he did; and that there was in reality
+nothing restrained him from making them as happy as their mutual affection
+could desire, but the pride of blood and the talk of the world, which the
+disparity of their present circumstances would occasion. As she doubted
+not but the courage and virtue of Horatio would remove that impediment,
+by acquiring a promotion sufficient to countenance his pretensions, she
+had now no other disquiet than what arose from her fears for his safety,
+which she over and over repeated, conjuring him, in the most tender terms,
+not to hazard himself beyond what the duties of his post obliged him
+to:—this, said she, shall be the test of my affection to you; for
+whenever I hear you run yourself into unnecessary dangers, I will conclude
+from that moment you have ceased to remember, or pay any regard to my
+injunctions or repose.</p>
+<p>Horatio kissed her hand thro' the grate, and told her, he would always
+set too great a value on a life she was so good to with the continuance
+of, not to take all the care of it that honour would admit; but she would
+not give him leave to add any asseverations to this promise, which, said
+she, you will every day be tempted to break;—the enterprizing disposition
+of the prince you are going to serve, added to your own sense of glory,
+will make it very difficult for you not to be the foremost in following
+wherever his royal example leads the way:—nor would I wish you to
+purchase security by the price of infamy; but as you go in a manner such
+as will in all probability place you near his person, methinks it would be
+easy for you, by now and then mentioning the princess Louisa, to rouse in
+him these soft emotions which might prevent him from too rashly exposing a
+life she had so great an interest in.</p>
+<p>How great a pity was it this tender conversation between two persons
+who had so pure a passion for each other, who had been absent for some
+time, and who knew not when, or whether ever they should meet again, could
+not be indulged with no longer continuance! but now mademoiselle du Pont,
+who had been so good as to stand at some little distance, while they
+entertained each other, as a watch to give them notice of any
+interruption, now warned them that they must part:—divine service was
+over, and the abbess and nuns were returning from chapel.</p>
+<p>Short was the farewel the lovers took; mademoiselle Charlotta had told
+him it would be highly improper he should run the hazard of a discovery by
+coming there a second time, which would probably incense her father so
+much, as to convert all the favourable intentions he now might have
+towards them into the reverse, and he was therefore oblig'd to content
+himself with printing with his lips the seal of his affection on her hand,
+which he had scarce done before, on a second motion by mademoiselle du
+Pont, she shot suddenly from the place and went to her chamber, that no
+suspicions might arise on her being found so well as to have been able to
+quit it.</p>
+<p>As he had passed for the brother of mademoiselle du Pont, she stayed
+some little time with him: this lady, whom Charlotta in this exigence had
+made her confidant, had a great deal of good nature, and seeing the agony
+Horatio was in, endeavoured to console him by all the arguments she
+thought might have force;—she told him, that in the short time she had
+been made partaker of mademoiselle Charlotta's secrets, she had expressed
+herself with a tenderness for him, with which he ought to be satisfied,
+and that she was convinced nothing would ever be capable of making the
+least alteration in her sentiments.</p>
+<p>While she was speaking in this manner, Horatio remembered that he had
+not given Charlotta her tablet, which he now took out of his pocket, and
+with the same pencil she had made use of, and which was fastened to it,
+wrote in the next leaf to that she had employed these words; <br/>
+<br/>
+"I go, most dear, and most adorable Charlotta;<br/>
+whether to live or die I know not, but which<br/>
+ever is my portion, the passion I have for you is<br/>
+rooted in my soul, and will be equally immortal:<br/>
+life can give no joy but in the hope of being<br/>
+yours, nor death any terrors but being separated<br/>
+from you:—O! let nothing ever prevail on<br/>
+you to forget so perfect an attachment; but in<br/>
+the midst of all the temptations you may be<br/>
+surrounded with, think that you have vouch-safed<br/>
+to encourage my hopes, presuming as they<br/>
+are, and if once lost to them, what must be the<br/>
+destiny of<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>Having thus poured out some part of the over-flowings of his heart, he
+entreated mademoiselle du Pont to give it her, which she assured him she
+would not only do, but also be a faithful monitor for him during the whole
+time she should be happy enough to enjoy the company of that lady. Horatio
+having now fulfilled all his passion required of him, quitted Rheines the
+next day, no less impatient to pursue his other mistress, glory!</p>
+<p>But let us now see in what manner his beautiful sister Louisa, whom we
+left at Vienna, was all this while engaged.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Continuation of the adventures of Louisa: her quitting Vienna with
+Melanthe, and going to Venice, with some accidents that there befel them</i>.</p>
+<p>Not all the gaieties of the court of Vienna had power to attach the
+heart of Melanthe, after she heard that a great number of young officers,
+just returned from the campaign in Italy, and other persons of condition,
+were going to Venice, in order to partake the diversions of the near
+approaching carnival: she was for following pleasure every where, and
+having seen all that was worth observing in Germany, was impatient to be
+gone where new company and new delights excited her curiosity.</p>
+<p>Having therefore obtained proper passports, they set out in company
+with several others who were taking the same rout, and by easy journeys
+thro' Tyrol, at length arrived at that republic, so famous over all Europe
+for its situation, antiquity, and the excellence of its constitution.</p>
+<p>Here seemed to be at this time an assemblage of all that was to be
+found of grand and polite in the whole christian world; but none appeared
+with that splendor and magnificence as did Lewis de Bourbon, prince of
+Conti: he had in his train above fifty noblemen and gentlemen of the best
+families in France, who had commissions under him in the army, and seemed
+proud to be of his retinue, less for his being of the blood royal, than
+for the many great and amiable qualities which adorned his person. This
+great hero had been a candidate with Augustus, elector of Saxony, for the
+crown of Poland; but the ill genius of that kingdom would not suffer it to
+be governed by a prince whose virtues would doubtless have rendered it as
+flourishing and happy as it has since that unfortunate rejection been
+impoverished and miserable. Bigotted to a family whose designs are plainly
+to render the crown hereditary, they not only set aside that great prince,
+under the vain and common-place pretence, that on electing him they might
+be too much under the influence of France; but also afterward, as resolved
+to push all good fortune from them with both hands, refused Stanislaus, a
+native of Poland, a strict observer of its laws, and a man to whose
+courage, virtue, and every eminent qualification even envy itself could
+make no objection, and thereby rendered their country the seat of war and
+theatre of the most terrible devastations of all kinds. But of this
+infatuation of the Poles I shall have occasion hereafter to speak more at
+large, and should not now have made any mention of it, had not the
+presence of that hero, whom they first rejected, rendered it the general
+subject of discourse at Venice. Numberless were the instances he gave of a
+magnanimity and greatness of mind worthy of a more exalted throne than
+that of Poland; but I shall only mention one, which, like the thumb of
+Hercules, may serve to give a picture of him in miniature.</p>
+<p>Having the good fortune one night to win a very great sum at a public
+gaming, just as he sweep'd the stakes, a noble Venetian, who by some
+casualties in life was reduced in his circumstances, could not help crying
+out, heavens! how happy would such a chance have made me! these words,
+which the extreme difficulties he was under forced from him, without being
+sensible himself of what he said, were over-heard by the prince, who
+turning hastily about, instead of putting the money into his own pocket,
+presented it to him, saying, I am doubly indebted to chance, sir, which
+has made me master of this; since it may be of service to you, I beseech
+you therefore to accept it with the respects of a prince, whose greatest
+pleasure in life is to oblige a worthy person.</p>
+<p>It would take up too much time to expatiate on the grateful
+acknowledgments made by the Venetian, or the admiration which the report
+of this action being immediately spread, occasioned; but, added to others
+of a little less conspicuous nature, it greatly served to convince those
+who before were ignorant of it, how blind the Polanders had been to their
+own interest.</p>
+<p>Among the concourse of nobility and gentry, whom merely the love of
+pleasure had drawn hither, and for that end were continually forming
+parties, Melanthe never failed of making one either in one company or
+other: Louisa, whom that lady still treated with her former kindness, or
+rather with an increase of it, was also seldom absent, and when she was
+so, the fault was wholly her own inclination: but in truth, that hurry of
+incessant diversion, which at first had seemed so ravishing to her young
+and unexperienced mind, began, by a more perfect acquaintance with it, to
+grow tiresome to her, and she rather chose sometimes to retire with a
+favourite book into her closet, than to go to the most elegant
+entertainment.</p>
+<p>It is certain, indeed, that her disposition was rather inclined to
+serious than the contrary, and that, joined with the reflections which her
+good understanding was perpetually presenting her with, on the uncertainty
+of her birth, the precariousness of her dependance, and her enforced
+quitting the only person from whom she could expect the means of any solid
+establishment in the world, had rendered her sometimes extremely
+thoughtful, even in the midst of those pleasures that are ordinarily most
+enchanting to one of her sex and age. But as she never was elated with the
+respect paid to her supposed condition, so she never was mortified with
+the consciousness of her real one, to a behaviour such as might have
+degraded the highest birth; neither appearing to expect it, or be covetous
+of honours, nor meanly ashamed of accepting them when offered. And while
+by this prudent management she secured herself from any danger of being
+insulted whenever it should be known who she was, she also gave no
+occasion for any one to make too deep an enquiry into her descent or
+fortune.</p>
+<p>But now the time was arrived when those deficiencies gave her more
+anxiety than hitherto they had done; and love in one moment filled her
+with those repinings at her fate, which neither vanity or ambition would
+ever have had power to do.</p>
+<p>Melanthe here, as at Vienna, received the visits of all whose birth,
+fortune, or accomplishments, gave them a pretence; but there was none who
+paid them so frequently, or which she encouraged with so much pleasure as
+those of the count de Bellfleur, a French nobleman belonging to the
+above-mentioned prince of Conti: she often told Louisa, when they were
+alone, that there was something in the air and manner of behaviour of this
+count, which had so perfect a resemblance with that of Henricus, that tho'
+it reminded her of that once dear and perfidious man, she could not help
+admiring and wishing a frequent sight of him. This was spoke at her first
+acquaintance with him; but after some little time she informed her, that
+he had declared a passion for her. He is not only like Henricus in his
+person, said she, but appears to have the same inclinations also:—he
+pretends to adore me, continued she with a sigh, and spares no vows nor
+presents to assure me of it:—something within tempts me to believe him,
+and yet I fear to be a second time betrayed.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, cried Louisa, in the sincerity of her heart, I beseech you
+to be cautious how you too readily give credit to the protestations of a
+sex, who, by the little observations I have made, take a pride in
+deceiving ours;—besides, the count de Bellfleur is of a nation where
+faith, I have heard, is little to be depended on.</p>
+<p>Those who give them that character, replied Melanthe, do them an
+infinite injustice:—in politics, I allow, they have their artifices,
+their subterfuges, as well as in war; but then they put them in practice
+only against their enemies, or such as are likely to become so:—wherever
+they love, or have a friendship, their generosity is beyond all bounds.—</p>
+<p>She pursued this discourse with a long detail of all she had ever read
+or heard in the praise of the French, and did not forget to speak of the
+prince of Conti as an instance of the gallant spirit with which that
+people are animated.</p>
+<p>Louisa knew her temper, and that it would be in vain to urge any thing
+in contradiction to an inclination she found she was resolved to indulge;
+but she secretly trembled for the consequence, the count having said many
+amorous things to herself before he pretended any passion for Melanthe;
+and tho' he had of late desisted on finding how little she was pleased
+with them, yet that he had done so was sufficient to convince her he was
+of a wavering disposition. Melanthe was not, however, to be trusted with
+this secret; she loved him, and jealousy, added to a good share of vanity,
+would, instead of engaging any grateful return for a discovery of that
+nature, have made her hate the person he had once thought of as worthy of
+coming in any competition with herself. She therefore indeed thought it
+best not to interfere in the matter, but leave the event wholly to chance.</p>
+<p>The evening on the day in which this discourse had past between them,
+they went to a ball, to which they had been invited by one of the
+Magnifico's. The honour of the prince's company had been requested; but he
+excused himself on account, as it was imagined, of his being engaged with
+a certain German lady, who also being absent, gave room for this
+conjecture: most of the gentlemen who had followed his highness from
+France were there, among whom was the count de Bellfleur, and a young
+gentleman called monsieur du Plessis, who, by a fall from his horse, had
+been prevented from appearing in public since his arrival. The
+gracefulness of his person, the gallant manner in which he introduced
+himself, and the brilliant things he said to the ladies, on having been so
+long deprived of the happiness he now enjoyed, very much attracted the
+admiration of the company; but Louisa in particular thought she had never
+seen any thing so perfectly agreeable: a sympathy of sentiment, more than
+accident, made him chuse her for his partner in a grand dance then leading
+up; and the distinction now paid her by him gave her a secret
+satisfaction, which she had never known before on such an occasion, tho'
+often singled out by persons in more eminent stations.</p>
+<p>The mind which, whenever agitated by any degree of pain or pleasure,
+never fails to discover itself in the eyes, now sparkled in those of
+Louisa with an uncommon lustre, nor had less influence over all her
+air:—her motions always perfectly easy, gentle and graceful, especially
+in dancing, were now more spirituous, more alert than usual; and she so
+much excelled herself, that several, who had before praised her skill in
+this exercise, seemed ravished, as if they had seen something new and
+unexpected:—her partner was lavish in the testimonies of his admiration,
+and said, she as much excelled the ladies of his country, as they had been
+allowed to excel all others.</p>
+<p>The encomiums bestowed on her, and more particularly those she received
+from him, still added fresh radiance to her eyes, and at the same time
+diffused a modest blush in her checks which heightened all her
+charms.—Never had she appeared so lovely as at this time; and the count
+de Bellfleur, in spight of his attachment to Melanthe, felt in himself a
+strong propensity to renew those addresses which her reserved behaviour
+alone had made him withdraw and carry to another; but the lady to whom for
+some days past he had made a shew of devoting himself was present, and he
+was ashamed to give so glaring an instance of his infidelity, which must
+in all probability render him the contempt of both.</p>
+<p>This night, however, lost Melanthe the heart she had thought herself so
+secure of; but little suspecting her misfortune, she treated the
+inconstant count with a tenderness he was far from deserving; and having
+transplanted all the affection she once had for Henricus on this new
+object, told him, at a time that such discovery was least welcome to him,
+that she was not insensible of his merit, nor could be ungrateful to his
+passion, provided she could be convinced of the sincerity of it. He had
+gone too far with her now to be able to draw back, therefore could not
+avoid repeating the vows he before had made, tho' his heart was far from
+giving any asient to what his tongue was obliged to utter; but blinded by
+her own desires, she perceived not the change in his, and appointed him to
+come the next day to her lodgings, promising to be denied to all other
+company, that she might devote herself entirely to him.</p>
+<p>It is possible he was so lost in his passion for Louisa, as not to be
+sensible of the condescension made him by Melanthe; but it is certain, by
+the sequel of his behaviour, that he was much less so than he pretended.</p>
+<p>The ball being ended, these ladies carried with them very different
+emotions, tho' neither communicated to the other what she felt. Melanthe
+had a kind of awe for those virtuous principles she observed in Louisa,
+tho' so much her inferior and dependant, and was ashamed to confess her
+liking of the count should have brought her to such lengths; not that she
+intended to keep it always a secret from her, but chose she should find it
+out by degrees; and these thoughts so much engrossed her, that she said
+little to her that night. Louisa, for her part, having lost the presence
+of her agreeable partner, was busy in supplying that deficiency with the
+idea of him; so that each having meditations of her own of the most
+interesting nature, had not leisure to observe the thoughtfulness of the
+other, much less to enquire the motive of it.</p>
+<p>One of the great reasons that we find love so irresistable, is, that it
+enters into the heart with so much subtilty, that it is not to be
+perceived till it has gathered too much strength to be repulsed. If Louisa
+had imagined herself in any danger from the merits of monsieur du Plessis,
+she would at least have been less easily overcome by them:—she had been
+accustomed to be pleased with the conversation of many who had entertained
+her as he had done, but thought no more of them, or any thing they said,
+when out of their company; but it was otherways with her now: not a word
+he had spoke, not a glance he had given, but was imprinted in her
+mind:—her memory ran over every little action a thousand and a thousand
+times, and represented all as augmented with some grace peculiar to
+himself, and infinitely superior to any thing she had ever seen:—not even
+sleep could shut him out;—thro' her closed eyes she saw the pleasing
+vision; and fancy, active in the cause of love, formed new and various
+scenes, which to her waking thoughts were wholly strangers.</p>
+<p>Melanthe also past the night in ideas which, tho' experienced in, were
+not less ravishing: she was not of a temper to put any constraint on her
+inclinations; and having entertained the most amorous ones for the count
+de Bellfleur, easily overcame all scruples that might have hindered the
+gratification of them:—her head ran on the appointment she had made
+him:—the means she would take to engage his constancy,—resolved to sell
+the reversion of her jointure and accompany him to France, and flattered
+herself with the most pleasing images of a long series of continued
+happiness in the arms of him, who was now all to her that Henricus ever
+had been.</p>
+<p>Full of these meditations she rose, and soon after received from the
+subject of them a billet, containing these words: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the charming</i> MELANTHE. <br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+"Tho' the transporting promise you made<br/>
+me of refusing admittance to all company<br/>
+but mine, is a new instance of your goodness,<br/>
+yet I cannot but think we should be still more<br/>
+secure from interruption at a place I have taken<br/>
+care to provide. Might I therefore hope you<br/>
+would vouchsafe to meet me about five in the<br/>
+evening at the dome of St. Mark, I shall be<br/>
+ready with a Gondula to conduct you to a recess,<br/>
+which seems formed by the god of love himself<br/>
+for the temple of his purest offerings, than which<br/>
+which none can be offered with greater passion<br/>
+and sincerity than those of the adorable Melanthe's<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most devoted, and<br/>
+Everlasting Slave</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+DE BELLFLEUR.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i>. To prevent your fair friend Louisa from<br/>
+any suspicion on account of being left at<br/>
+home, I have engaged a gentleman to make<br/>
+her a visit in form, just before the time of<br/>
+your coming out:—favour me, I beseech<br/>
+you, with knowing if my contrivances in<br/>
+both these points have the sanction of your<br/>
+approbation."</p>
+<p>Tho' Melanthe, as may have been already observed in the foregoing part
+of her character, was no slave to reputation in England, and thought
+herself much less obliged to be so in a place where she was a stranger,
+and among people who, when she once quitted, she might probably never see
+again, yet she looked on this caution in her lover as a new proof of his
+sincerity and regard for her. She was also fond of every thing that had an
+air of luxury, and doubted not to find the elegance of the French taste in
+the entertainment he would cause to be prepared for her reception,
+therefore hesitated not a moment to send him the following answer: <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the engaging count</i> DE BELLFLEUR.<br/>
+<br/>
+"Sensible, as you are, of the ascendant your<br/>
+merits have gained over me, you cannot<br/>
+doubt of my compliance with every thing that seems<br/>
+reasonable to you:—I will not fail to be<br/>
+at the place you mention; but oh! my dear<br/>
+count, I hope you will never give me cause to<br/>
+repent this step;—if you should, I must be<br/>
+the most miserable of all created beings; but I<br/>
+am resolved to believe you are all that man ought<br/>
+to be, or that fond tenacious woman can desire;<br/>
+and in that confidence attend with impatience<br/>
+the hour in which there shall be no more reserve<br/>
+between us, and I be wholly yours.<br/>
+<br/>
+MELANTHE."</p>
+<p>Thus every thing being fixed for her undoing, she spent the best part
+of the day in preparing for the rendezvous: nothing was omitted in the
+article of dress, which might heighten her charms and secure her
+conquest:—the glass was consulted every moment, and every look and
+various kind of languishment essayed, in order to continue in that which
+she thought would most become the occasion. As she ordinarily past a great
+deal of time in this employment, Louisa was not surprized that she now
+wasted somewhat more than usual; and the discourse they had together while
+she was dressing, and all the time of dinner, being very much on the ball
+and the company who were at it, her thoughts were so much taken up with
+the remembrance of du Plessis, that she perceived not the hurry of spirits
+which would else have been visible enough to her in all the words and
+motions of the other, and which increased in proportion as the hour of her
+appointment drew nearer.</p>
+<p>At length it arrived, and a servant came into the room and acquainted
+Louisa a gentleman desired to speak with her; she was a little surprized,
+it being usual for all those who visited there to expect their reception
+from Melanthe; but that lady, who doubted not but it was the same person
+the count had mentioned in his letter, prevented her from saying any
+thing, by immediately giving orders for the gentleman to be admitted.</p>
+<p>But with what strange emotions was the heart of Louisa agitated, when
+she saw monsieur du Plessis come into the room! and after paying his
+respects to Melanthe in the most submissive manner, accosted her, with
+saying he took the liberty of enquiring of her health after the fatigue of
+the last night; but, added he, the question, now I have the happiness of
+seeing you, is altogether needless; those fine eyes, and that sprightly
+air, declare you formed for everlasting gaiety, and that what is apt to
+throw the spirits of others into a languor, serves but to render yours
+more sparkling.</p>
+<p>Louisa, in spite of the confusion she felt within, answered this
+compliment with her accustomed ease; and being all seated, they began to
+enter into some conversation concerning the state with which the
+Magnifico's of Venice are served, the elegance with which they entertain
+strangers, and some other topics relating to the customs of that republic,
+when all on a sudden Melanthe starting up, cried, bless me! I had forgot a
+little visit was in my head to make to a monastery hard by:—you will
+excuse me, monsieur, continued she, I leave your partner to entertain you,
+and fancy you two may find sufficient matter of conversation without a
+third person. She had no sooner spoke this than she went out of the room,
+and left Louisa at a loss how to account for this behaviour, as she had
+not before mentioned any thing of going abroad. She would have imagined
+her vanity had been picqued that monsieur du Plessis had particularized
+her in this visit; but as she seemed in perfect good humour at going away,
+and knew she thought it beneath her to put any disguise on her sentiments,
+she was certain this sudden motion must have proceeded from some other
+cause, which as yet she could form no conjecture of.</p>
+<p>This deceived lady, however, was no sooner out of the room, than
+monsieur du Plessis drawing nearer to Louisa, how hard is my fate, madame,
+said he, in a low voice, that I am compelled to tell you any other motive
+than my own inclination has occasioned my waiting on you:—heaven knows it
+is an honour I should have sought by the lowest submissions, and all the
+ways that would not have rendered me unworthy of it; but I now come,
+madame, not as myself, but as the ambassador of another, and am engaged by
+my word and honour to plead a cause which, if I succeed in, must be my own
+destruction.</p>
+<p>Louisa was in the utmost consternation at the mystery which seemed
+contained in these words: she looked earnestly upon him while he was
+uttering the latter part, and saw all the tokens of a serious perplexity
+in his countenance, as well as in the accents with which he delivered
+them; but not being willing to be the dupe of his diversion, thought it
+best to answer as to a piece of railery, and told him, laughing, she
+imagined this was some new invention of the frolics of the season, but
+that she was a downright English-woman, understood nothing beyond plain
+speaking, and could no ways solve the riddle he proposed.</p>
+<p>What I say, may doubtless appear so, madame; replied she, and I could
+wish it had not been my part to give the explanation; but I cannot
+dispense with the promise I have made, and must therefore acquaint you
+with the history of it.</p>
+<p>After the ball, continued he, monsieur the count de Bellfleur desired
+me to accompany him to his lodgings, and, as soon as we were alone, told
+me, he had a little secret to acquaint me with, but that, before he
+revealed it, he must have the promise of my assistance. As he spoke this
+with a gay and negligent air, I imagined it a thing of no great
+consequence, or if it were, he was a man of too much honour, and also knew
+me too well to desire or expect I would engage in any thing unbecoming
+that character: indeed I could think of nothing but an amour or a duel,
+tho' I was far from being able to guess of what service I could be to him
+in the former. I was, however, unwarily drawn in to give my word, and he
+then made me the confident of a passion, which, he said, had received its
+birth from the first moment he beheld the Belle Angloise, for by that
+term, pursued he, bowing, he distinguished the adorable Louisa: that he
+had made some discovery of his flame, but that finding; himself rejected,
+as he thought, in too severe a manner, and without affording him
+opportunity to attest his sincerity, he had converted his addresses, tho'
+not his passion, to a lady who, he perceived, had the care of her, acting
+in this manner, partly thro' picque at your disdain, and partly to gratify
+his eyes with the sight of you, which he has reason to fear you had
+totally deprived him of but for this stratagem. He confessed to me that he
+found the object of his pretended ardours infinitely more kind than she
+who inspires the real ones: but this gratification of his vanity is of
+little consequence to his peace;—he engaged me to attend you this day, to
+conjure you to believe his heart is incapable of being influenced by any
+other charms, and whatever he makes shew of to Melanthe, his heart is
+devoted wholly to you,—begs you to permit him to entertain you without
+the presence of that lady, the means of which he will take care to
+contrive; and charged me to assure you, that there is no sacrifice so
+great, but he will readily offer it to convince you of the sincerity of
+his attachment.</p>
+<p>This, madame, added he, is the unpleasing task my promise bound me to
+perform, and which I have acquitted myself of with the same pain that man
+would do who, by some strange caprice of fate, was constrained to throw
+into the sea the sum of all his hopes.</p>
+<p>The indignation which filled the virtuous foul of Louisa, while he was
+giving her this detail of the count's presumption, falsehood, and
+ingratitude, prevented her from giving much attention to the apology with
+which he concluded. Never, since the behaviour of mr. B——n at mrs.
+C—g—'s, had she met with any thing that she thought so much merited her
+resentment:—so great was her disdain she had not words to express it, but
+by some tears, which the rising passion forced from her eyes:—Heaven!
+cried she, which of my actions has drawn on me this unworthy
+treatment?—This was all she was able to utter, while she walked backward
+and forward in the room endeavouring to compose herself, and form some
+answer befitting of the message.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis looked on her all this while with admiration: all
+that seemed lovely in her, when he knew no more of her than that she was
+young and beautiful, was now heightened in his eyes almost to divine, by
+that virtuous pride which shewed him some part of her more charming mind.
+What he extremely liked before, he now almost adored; and having, by the
+loose manner in which the count had mentioned these two English ladies,
+imagined them women of not over-rigid principles, now finding his mistake,
+at least as concerning one of them, was so much ashamed and angry with
+himself for having been the cause of that disorder he was witness of, that
+he for some moments was equally at a loss to appease, as she who felt was
+to express it.</p>
+<p>But being the first that recovered presence of mind; madame, I beseech
+you, said he, involve not the innocent with the guilty:—I acknowledge you
+have reason to resent the boldness of the count; but I am no otherwise a
+sharer in his crime than in reporting it; and if you knew the pain it gave
+my heart while I complied with the promise I was unhappily betrayed into,
+I am sure you would forgive the misdemeanor of my tongue.</p>
+<p>Sir, answered she, I can easily forgive the slight opinion one so much
+a stranger to me as yourself may have of me; but monsieur the count has
+been a constant visitor to the lady I am with, ever since our arrival at
+Venice; and am very certain he never found any thing in my behaviour to
+him or any other person, which could justly encourage him to send me such
+a message:—a message, indeed, equally affrontive to himself, since it
+shews him a composition of arrogance, vanity, perfidy, and every thing
+that is contemptible in man.—This, sir, is the reply I send him, and
+desire you to tell him withal, that if he persists in giving me any
+farther trouble of this nature, I shall let him know my sense of it in the
+presence of Melanthe.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis then assured her he would be no less exact in
+delivering what she said, than he had been in the observance of his
+promise to the other, and conjured her to believe he should do it with
+infinite more satisfaction. He then made use of so many arguments to
+prove, that a man of honour ought not to falsify his word, tho' given to
+an unworthy person, that she was at last won to forgive his having
+undertaken to mention any thing to her of the nature he had done.</p>
+<p>Indeed, the agitations she had been in were more owing to the vexation
+that monsieur du Plessis was the person employed, than that the count had
+the boldness to apply to her in this manner; but the submission she found
+herself treated with by the former, convincing her that he had sentiments
+very different from those the other had entertained of her, rendered her
+more easy, and she not only forgave his share in the business which had
+brought him there, but also permitted him to repeat his visits, on
+condition he never gave her any cause to suspect the mean opinion the
+count had of her conduct had any influence on him.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa finds herself very much embarrassed by Melanthe's imprudent
+behaviour. Monsieur du Plessis declares an honourable passion for her: her
+sentiments and way of acting on that occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>After the departure of monsieur du Plessis, Louisa fell into a serious
+consideration of what had passed between them: not all the regard, which
+she could not hinder herself from feeling for that young gentleman, nor
+the pleasure she took in reflecting on the respect he paid her, made her
+unmindful of what she owed Melanthe: the many obligations she had received
+from her, and the friendship she had for her in return, made her think she
+ought to acquaint her with the baseness of the count de Bellfleur, in
+order to prevent an affection which she found she had already too much
+indulged from influencing her to grant him any farther favours; but this
+she knew was a very critical point to manage, and was not without some
+apprehensions, which afterward she experienced were but too well grounded;
+that when that lady found herself obliged to hate the man she took
+pleasure in loving, she would also hate the woman who was the innocent
+occasion of it. Few in the circumstances Louisa was, but would have been
+swayed by this consideration, and chose rather to see another become the
+prey of perfidy and deceit, than fall the victim of jealousy herself; but
+the generosity of her nature would not suffer it to have any weight with
+her, and she thought she could be more easy under any misfortunes the
+discovery might involve her in, than in the consciousness of not having
+discharged the obligations of duty and gratitude in revealing what seemed
+so necessary to be known.</p>
+<p>With this resolution, finding Melanthe was not come home, she went into
+her chamber in order to wait her return, and relate the whole history to
+her as she should undress for bed. But hour after hour elapsing without
+any appearance of the person she expected, she thought to beguile the
+tedious time by reading; and remembering that Melanthe had a very
+agreeable book in her hand that morning, she opened a drawer, where she
+knew that lady was accustomed to throw any thing in, which she had no
+occasion to conceal; but how great was her surprise when, instead of what
+she sought, she found the letter from count de Bellfleur which Melanthe,
+in the hurry of spirits, had forgot to lock up. As it lay open and was
+from him, she thought it no breach of honour to examine the contents, but
+in doing so was ready to faint away between grief and astonishment.</p>
+<p>She was not insensible that Melanthe was charmed with this new lover,
+and had always feared her liking him would sway her to some imprudencies,
+but could not have imagined it would have carried her, at least so soon,
+to such a guilty length as she now found it did.</p>
+<p>Convinced by the hour in which she went out, and alone, that she had
+complied with the appointment, and that all she would have endeavoured to
+prevent was already come to pass, she now considered that the discovery
+she had to make would only render this indiscreet lady more unhappy, and
+therefore no longer thought herself obliged to run any risque of incuring
+her ill-will on the occasion; but in her soul extremely lamented this
+second fall from virtue, which it was impossible should not bring on
+consequences equally, if not more shameful than the first.</p>
+<p>Good God! cried she, how is it possible for a woman of any share of
+sense, and who has been blessed with a suitable education, to run thus
+counter to all the principles of religion, honour, virtue, modesty, and
+all that is valuable in our sex? and yet that many do, I have been a
+melancholy witness:—and then again, what is there in this love, resumed
+she, that so infatuates the understanding, that we doat on our dishonour,
+and think ruin pleasing?—Can any personal perfections in a man attone for
+the contempt he treats us with in courting us to infamy!—the mean opinion
+he testifies to have of us sure ought rather to excite hate than love; our
+very pride, methinks, should be a sufficient guard, and turn whatever
+favourable thoughts we might have of such a one, unknowing his design,
+into aversion, when once convinced he presumed upon our weakness.</p>
+<p>In these kind of reasonings did she continue some time; but reflecting
+that the trouble she was in might put Melanthe on asking the cause, it
+seemed best to her to avoid seeing her that night, so retired to her own
+room and went to bed, ordering the servants to tell their lady, in case
+she enquired for her, that she was a little indisposed.</p>
+<p>While Louisa was thus deploring a misfortune she wanted power to
+remedy, the person for whom she was concerned past her time in a far
+different manner: the count omitted nothing that might convince her of his
+gallantry, and give her a pretence for flattering herself with his
+sincerity:—he swore ten thousand oaths of constancy, and she easily gave
+credit to what she wished and had vanity enough to think she merited:—he
+had prepared every thing that could delight the senses for her reception
+at the house to which he carried her; and she found in herself so little
+inclination to quit the pleasures she enjoyed, that it was as much as the
+little remains of decency and care of reputation could do, to make her
+tear herself away before midnight.</p>
+<p>In the fullness of her heart she had doubtless concealed no part of
+this adventure from Louisa, but on hearing she was gone to rest, and not
+very well, would not disturb her. The first thing she did in the morning
+was to run into the chamber and enquire after her health, which she did
+in so affectionate and tender a manner, that it very much heightened the
+other's trouble for her.</p>
+<p>It is certain that, setting aside too loose a way of thinking of virtue
+and religion, and adhering to that false maxim, that a woman of rank is
+above censure, Melanthe had many amiable qualities, and as she truly loved
+Louisa, was alarmed at her supposed indisposition, which, to conceal the
+perplexity her mind was in, she still continued to counterfeit, as well as
+to avoid going to a masquerade, to which they had some days before been
+invited, and which the present situation of her thoughts left her no
+relish for.</p>
+<p>Melanthe would fain have perswaded her that this diversion would
+contribute to restoring her; but she entreated to be excused, and the
+other went without her.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis in the mean time having informed the count de
+Bellfleur, how much it was in vain for him to flatter himself with any
+hopes of Louisa, that proud and inconstant nobleman was extremely
+mortified, and said, that since she was so haughty, he was resolved to
+contrive some way or other to get her into his power, as well out of
+revenge as inclination. This, the other represented to him, would be a
+very ungenerous way of proceeding; and said, that as she refused his
+addresses merely out of a principle of virtue, and not for the sake of a
+more favoured rival, he ought to content himself; but these arguments were
+lost on a man whom pride of blood, and an affluence of fortune, had
+rendered too insolent and head-strong to think any thing reason which
+opposed his will; and they parted not well satisfied with each other,
+tho' du Plessis concealed part of the dislike he had of his principles and
+manner of behaviour, on account of a long friendship between their
+families, and also as the count was his superior in birth, in years, and
+in the post he held in the army.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner left him than he came to Louisa, thinking it his duty
+to give her warning of the count's design, and that it would be a proper
+prelude to something else he had to say. As the servants knew she was not
+perfectly well, they told him, they believed she would see no company; but
+on his entreating it, and saying he had something of moment to impart, one
+of them went in and repeated what he had said, on which she gave leave for
+his admission.</p>
+<p>He rejoiced to find her alone, as he came prepared to reveal to her
+more secrets than that of the count's menace; but the pleasure he took in
+having so favourable an opportunity was very much damped, by seeing her
+look more pale than usual, and that she was in a night-dress. Fearful that
+this change proceeded from what had passed between them the day before, he
+asked with a hastiness, that shewed the most kind concern, if she were
+well. No otherways disordered, answered she, than in my mind, and that not
+sufficiently to have any effect over my health; but to confess the truth,
+monsieur, said she, the continual round of diversion this carnival
+affords, has made what the world calls pleasure, cease to be so with me;
+and I find more solid satisfaction in retirement, where I am in no danger
+of being too much flattered or affronted.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, cried he, I see the audacity of the count dwells too much
+upon your thoughts, and tremble to relate the business on which I came,
+and which it is yet necessary you should know. You mistake me, monsieur,
+replied she; a common foe of virtue, such as the count, is incapable of
+taking up my thoughts one moment; it is only those I love can give me real
+pain.</p>
+<p>I understand you, madam, resumed he, and am too much interested in your
+concern not to simpathize on the occasion: the misfortunes, such as I fear
+will attend the too great sensibility of Melanthe, may give you so
+terrible an idea of love in general, that it will be difficult to persuade
+you there can be any lasting happiness to be found in that passion:—but,
+charming Louisa, continued he, if you will make the least use of your
+penetration, and examine with a desire of being convinced, you will easily
+distinguish the real passion from the counterfeit: that love, whose
+supremest pleasure is in being capable to give felicity to the beloved
+object; and that wild desire, which aims at no more than a
+self-gratification:—the one has the authority of heaven for its
+sanction;—the other no excuse but nature in its depravity. From all
+attempts of the one, I am confident, your virtue and good sense will
+always defend you; but to fly with too great obstinacy the other, is not
+to answer the end of your creation; and deny yourself a blessing, which
+you seem formed to enjoy in the most extensive degree.</p>
+<p>Both the voice and manner in which monsieur du Plessis spoke, gave
+Louisa some suspicion of what he aimed at in this definition, and filled
+her at the same time with emotions of various kinds; but dissembling them
+as well as she could, and endeavouring to turn what he said into raillery,
+you argue very learnedly on this subject, it must be confessed, answered
+she smiling; but all you can urge on that head, nor the compliment you
+make me, can win me to believe that love of any kind is not attended with
+more mischief than good:—where it is accompanied with the strictest
+honour, constancy, purity, and all the requisites that constitute what is
+called a perfect passion, there are ordinarily so many difficulties in the
+way to the completion of its wishes, that the breast which harbours it
+must endure a continual agitation, which surely none would chuse to be
+involved in.</p>
+<p>Ah! madam, how little are you capable of judging of this passion, said
+he; there is a delicacy in love which renders even its pains pleasing, and
+how much soever a lover suffers, the thoughts of for whom he suffers is
+more than a compensation; I am myself an instance of this truth:—I am a
+lover:—conscious unworthiness of a suitable return of affection, and a
+thousand other impediments lie between me and hope, yet would I not change
+this dear anxiety for that insipid case I lived in before I saw the only
+object capable of making me a convert to love.—It is certain my passion
+is yet young; but a few days has given it root which no time, no absence,
+no misfortune ever can dislodge.—The charming maid is ignorant of her
+conquest:—the carnival draws near to a conclusion.—I must return to the
+army, and these cruel circumstances oblige me either to make a declaration
+which she may possibly condemn as too abrupt, or go and leave her
+unknowing of my heart, and thereby deprive myself even of her pity:—Which
+party, madam, shall I take?—Will the severe extreme, to which I am
+driven, be sufficient to attone for a presumption which else would merit
+her disdain?</p>
+<p>Louisa must have been as dull as she was really the contrary, not to
+have known all this was meant to herself; and the pleasing confusion which
+this discovery infused thro' all her veins, made her at the same time
+sensible of the difference she put between him and all those who before
+had entertained her on that subject; but not knowing presently whether she
+ought to attribute it to her good or ill fortune, she was wholly at a loss
+how to behave, and, to avoid giving any direct answer, still affected an
+air of pleasantry.</p>
+<p>See, cried she, the little reason you, have to speak in the praise of
+love; for if pity be all you have to hope for from your, mistress, I am
+afraid the consolation will be no way adequate to the misfortune.</p>
+<p>Yet if you vouchsafe me that, replied he, kissing her hard, I never
+shall complain. Me! interrupted she, pretending the utmost astonishment,
+and drawing her chair somewhat farther from him. Yes, beautiful Louisa,
+resumed he; it is you alone who have been capable of teaching me what love
+truly is:—your eyes, at first sight, subdued my heart; but your virtue
+has since made a conquest of my soul:—if I dare hope to make you mine, it
+is only by such ways as heaven, and those who have the power of disposing
+you, shall approve:—in the mean time I implore no more than your
+permission to admire you, and to convince you, by all the honourable
+services in my power to do you while you continue here, how much my words
+are deficient to denote my meaning.</p>
+<p>Louisa, now finding herself under a necessity of answering seriously,
+told him, that if it were true that he had sentiments for her of the
+nature he pretended, they would not only merit, but receive the most
+grateful acknowledgments on her part; but at the same time she should be
+sorry he had entertained them, and would wish him not to indulge a
+prospect which could last no longer than while both remained in Venice,
+and must infallibly vanish on their separation.</p>
+<p>No, madam, replied he, when the next campaign is over, I shall return
+to France; and sure the distance between that kingdom and England is not
+so great, but a less motive than yourself would easily carry me thither;
+and such credentials also of who, and what I am, as, I flatter myself,
+would not appear contemptible in the eyes of your friends:—the prospect
+therefore is not so visionary as you seem to think, provided I have your
+consent.</p>
+<p>The mention he made of her friends reminding her of her destitute
+condition, gave her the utmost shock; which not being able to overcome,
+she remained silent some moments; but at last perceiving he waited her
+reply, monsieur, said she, there may be a thousand indissoluble bars
+between us which you do not think of.</p>
+<p>None, interrupted he eagerly, but what such love as mine will easily
+surmount:—it is true, I am ignorant of your condition in the world; but
+if it be superior to mine, the passion I am possessed of will inspire me
+with means to raise me to an equality; and if inferior, which heaven grant
+may be the case, it will only give the opportunity of proving that I love
+Louisa for Louisa's self, and look upon every thing she brings beside as
+nothing.</p>
+<p>The emphasis he gave these words manifesting their sincerity, could not
+but give new charms to the person who spoke them: Louisa thought she
+might, without a blush, testify the sense she had of his generosity; but
+tho' what she said was perfectly obliging to him, yet she concluded with
+letting him know, there still was something that rendered the
+accomplishment of what he seemed to wish impossible.</p>
+<p>Then your heart already is engaged, cried he, or you are predestined by
+your parents to some happier man? Without either of these, answered she,
+there may be reasons to prevent our ever meeting more;—therefore I owe so
+much to the honourable offers you are pleased to make me, as to wish you
+to overcome whatever inclinations you may have for one who I once more
+assure you never can be yours.</p>
+<p>It would be impossible to express the distraction monsieur du Plessis
+testified at this expression:—a thousand times over did he repeat that
+dreadful word NEVER;—then added, neither engaged by love or promise, yet
+never can be mine! does my ill fate come wrap'd to me in riddles!—yet
+many things have seemed impossible that are not so in themselves:—O
+Louisa! continued he, if there be any thing beside my want of merit that
+impedes my wishes, and you delight not in my torment, speak it I conjure
+you.</p>
+<p>There is a necessity of denying you in this also, said Louisa; but to
+shew you how little I am inclined to be ungrateful, be certain that I have
+the highest idea of your merits, and prize them as much as I ought to do.</p>
+<p>These last words, obliging as they were, could not console monsieur du
+Plessis for the cruelty, as he termed it, of refusing to let him know what
+this invincible obstacle was which put a stop to any further
+correspondence between them: he spared neither prayers nor tears to draw
+the secret from her, but all were ineffectual; and she at last told him,
+that if he pressed her any farther on that head, she must for the future
+avoid his presence.</p>
+<p>This was a menace which he had not courage to dare the execution of,
+and he promised to conform to her will, tho' with such agonies, as shewed
+her how much he valued even the little she was pleased to grant; but it
+was not in the power of her perswasions to prevail on him to resolve to
+make any efforts for the vanquishing his passion; he still protested that
+he neither could cease to love her, and her alone, nor even to wish an
+alteration in his sentiments.</p>
+<p>By what has been already said of the extreme liking which the first
+fight of this young gentleman inspired Louisa with, it may easily be
+supposed she could not hear his complaints, and be witness of the
+anxieties she was enforced to inflict on him, without feeling at least an
+equal share: she endeavoured not to conceal the pity she had for him; but
+he now found that was far from being all he wanted, because it forwarded
+not, as he at first imagined, the progress of his hopes, but rather shewed
+them at more distance than ever.</p>
+<p>The business of his love so engrossed his thoughts during this visit,
+that he almost forgot to mention any thing of the count's designs upon
+her, and she as little remembered to remind him of it, tho' he told her on
+his entrance, that he had something to acquaint her with on his subject,
+and it was not till he was going to take leave that it came into his head.
+When he had related it to her, she assured him that she took the caution
+he gave her as a new proof of his friendship, which, said she, I shall
+always prize. At parting, she permitted him to salute her, and gave her
+promise not to refuse seeing him while they continued in that city; but
+told him at the same time, that he must not expect any thing from his
+repeated visits more than she had already granted.</p>
+<p>He durst not at that time press her any farther, but fetched a deep
+sigh as he went out of the room, accompanied with a look more expressive
+than any words could be of the discontent he laboured under, while she,
+oppressed beneath the double weight of his and her own grief, remained in
+a condition he was little able to form any conjecture of.</p>
+<p>Pleased as she was with the presence of the only man who had ever had
+power of inspiring her with one tender thought, yet a thousand times she
+had wished him gone before he went, that she might be at liberty to give
+vent to the struggling passions which were more than once ready to throw
+her into a swoon. The perfections she saw in the person of her lover;—the
+respect he treated her with, notwithstanding the violence of the passion
+he was possessed of;—the sincerity that appeared in all his looks and
+words;—the generosity of his behaviour in regard to her fortune;—all the
+qualifications that would have made any other woman blessed in the offer
+of such a heart, served but to make her wretched, since she could not look
+on herself in a condition capable of accepting it.</p>
+<p>Alas! du Plessis, cried she, little do you think to whom you would ally
+yourself:—you would, you say, despise a portion, but would you marry a
+foundling, a child of charity, one that has neither name nor friends, and
+who, in her best circumstances, is but a poor dependant, a servant in
+effect, tho' not in shew, and owes her very cloaths to the bounty of
+another?—Oh! why did the mistaken goodness of Dorilaus give me any other
+education than such as befitted my wretched fortune! Better I had been
+bred an humble drudge, and never been taught how to distinguish
+merit:—What avail the accomplishments that cost him so much money, and me
+so much pains to acquire, but to attract a short-liv'd admiration, which,
+when I am truly known, will be succeeded with an adequate derision:—Could
+I but say I was descended from honest, tho' mean parents, I would not
+murmur at my fate, but I have none,—none to own me;—I am a nothing,—a
+kind of reptile in humanity, and have been shewn in a genteel way of life
+only to make my native misery more conspicuous.</p>
+<p>Thus did love represent her unhappy circumstances in their worst
+colours, and render her, which till now she had never been, thankless to
+heaven for all the good she had received, since it seemed to deny her the
+only good her passion coveted, that of being in a condition to reward the
+affection of her dear du Plessis.</p>
+<p>A torrent of tears at length somewhat mitigated the violence of her
+passion, and unwilling to be seen by Melanthe in the present confusion of
+her thoughts, she went to bed, leaving the same orders as she had done the
+night before.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The base designs of the count de Bellfleur occasion a melancholy
+change in Louisa's way of life; the generous behaviour of monsieur du
+Plessis on that occasion.</i></p>
+<p>Had the agonies Louisa suffered been of very long continuance, she
+must have sunk under them; but grief is easily dissipated in a young
+heart, and she awoke more tranquil.—The principles of religion grew
+stronger as her passion weaker, and she reflected that she ought to submit
+in every thing to the will of heaven, which sometimes converts what seems
+the greatest evil into good.—The offer of such a match as monsieur du
+Plessis, a man she loved, and who was master of accomplishments which
+might excuse the most violent passion, appeared indeed a happiness she
+would have gloried in had she been really such as he took her for; but
+then she had known him but a very short time, had no experience of his
+principles or humour; and tho' he seemed all honour, could not assure
+herself that the generosity which so much engaged her might not be all
+artifice; at least she found to think so would most contribute to her
+ease, therefore indulged it as much as she was able. She condemned herself
+for having given monsieur du Plessis permission to continue his visits,
+after having assured him he had nothing to hope from them, because a
+further conversation might only serve to render both more unhappy. She
+resolved however to give him no opportunity of talking to her of his
+passion, and in order to avoid thinking of it herself as much as possible,
+to go, as usual, into all company that came to Melanthe, and partake of
+every diversion that offered itself.</p>
+<p>Accordingly she forced herself to a gaiety, she was far from feeling,
+vainly imagining that by counterfeiting a chearfulness, she should in time
+be able to resume it; but du Plessis hung too heavy at her heart, and when
+she affected the greatest shew of mirth, it was often interrupted with
+sighs, which she was not always sensible of herself. He visited her almost
+every day under one pretence or other; but she took such care never to be
+alone at the times that she could possibly expect him, that he had not the
+least opportunity to renew his addresses, any otherways than by his looks,
+which, notwithstanding, were perfectly intelligible to her, tho' she
+seemed not to observe them.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, no longer able to keep the secret of her amour, finding
+Louisa, as she thought, had entirely regained her former sprightliness,
+acquainted her with all had passed between herself and count de Bellfleur;
+which, tho' the other was no stranger to, she seemed astonished at, and
+could not help telling her, that she feared the consequence of an intrigue
+of that nature would one day be fatal to her peace. Yet, said Melanthe,
+where one loves, and is beloved, it is hard to deny oneself a certain
+happiness for the dread of an imaginary ill.—In fine, my dear Louisa, I
+found I could not live without him; and heaven will sure excuse the error
+of an inclination which is born with us, and which not all our reason is
+of force to conquer.—But, added she, you always seem to speak of the
+count, as of a man that wanted charms to excuse the tenderness I have for
+him; and, I have observed, deny him those praises which I have heard you
+bestow very freely on persons that have not half his merit.</p>
+<p>Louisa knowing how vain it was to contest with inclination, in persons
+who are resolved to indulge it, and also that all advice was now too late,
+began to repent of what she said. If, madam, replied she, after a little
+pause, I have seemed unjust to the count's perfections, it was only
+because I feared you were but too sensible of them; for otherwise, it must
+be owned, he has a person and behaviour extremely engaging; but as the
+carnival will put an end to all the acquaintance we have contracted here,
+it gives me pain to think how you will support a separation.</p>
+<p>Perhaps it may not happen so soon as you imagine, said Melanthe:—tho'
+the carnival, and with it all the pleasures of this place will soon be
+over, our loves may be continued elsewhere:—suppose, Louisa, we go to
+France, added she with a significant smile, that shewed it was her
+intention to do so.</p>
+<p>Some company coming in, prevented any farther discourse on this head
+for the present; but afterward she confirmed what she had now hinted at,
+and told Louisa, that she had resolved to pass some little time in seeing
+those places which were in her way to France, and afterwards meet the
+count at Paris, on his return from the campaign. Louisa, unable to
+determine within herself whether she ought to rejoice, or be sad at this
+intended journey, fell into a sudden thoughtfulness, which the other at
+that time took no notice of, but it served afterwards to corroborate the
+truth of something she was told, and proved of consequence little to be
+foreseen.</p>
+<p>The inconstant count, in the mean time, satieted with Melanthe, and as
+much in love with Louisa as a man of his temper could be, was contriving
+all the ways his inventive wit could furnish him with to get handsomely
+rid of the one, and attain the enjoyment of the other. As he had spent
+many years in a continual course of gallantry, and had made and broke a
+thousand engagements, he easily found expedients for throwing off his
+intercourse with Melanthe, but none that could give him the least prospect
+of success in his designs on Louisa while they lived together and
+continued friends: to part them therefore was his aim, and to accomplish
+it the following method came into his head.</p>
+<p>On his first acquaintance with these ladies his design was wholly on
+Louisa, but meeting a rebuff from her, his vanity rather than his
+inclinations had made him turn his devoirs to Melanthe, who too easily
+yielding to his suit, served but to heighten his desires for the other:
+the extravagant fondness of that unhappy woman rendering her visibly
+uneasy at even the ordinary civilities she saw him behave with to any
+other, discovered to him that jealousy was not the least reigning foible
+of her foul, and the surest means to make her hate that person whom it
+was not the interest of his passion she should continue to love. When they
+were alone together one day at the place of their usual rendezvous, in the
+midst of the most tender endearments, he asked suddenly if she had ever
+made Louisa the confident of his happiness. She was a little surprized at
+the question, but answered that she had not, and desired to know the
+reason of that demand; because, cried he, I am very certain she is no
+friend to our loves; and by the manner in which she behaves to me,
+whenever she has the least opportunity of shewing her ill humour, I
+imagined she either knew or suspected the affair between us.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, conscious she had hid nothing from her, and also sensible of
+the little approbation she gave to her intrigue, was very much picqued
+that she should have done any thing to make the count perceive
+it;—whatever she suspects, cried she, haughtily, she ought not to treat
+with any ill manners a person whom I avow a friendship for. Vanity,
+answered he, sometimes gets the better of discretion in ladies of her
+years:—she knows herself handsome, and cannot have a good opinion of the
+man who prefers any charms to her own.—I imagine this to be the cause why
+she looks on me with such disdain, and, whenever you are not witness of
+her words, is so keen in satyrical reflections.—On our first acquaintance
+she looked and spoke with greater softness, and I can impute it to no
+other motive than the pride of beauty, that this sudden change has
+happened.</p>
+<p>All the time he was speaking, the soul of Melanthe grew more and more
+fired with jealousy.—It is natural for every one to imagine whatever they
+like is agreeable to others. The distaste which Louisa had on many
+occasions testified for the count, seemed now to have been only
+affected:—the melancholy she had been in, and the deep resvery she
+remembered she had fallen into when first she informed her of their amour,
+joined to convince her, that the advice she gave proceeded from a motive
+very different from what she pretended.</p>
+<p>The wily count saw into the workings of her soul; and while he seemed
+as if he would not discover the whole of his sentiments for fear of
+disobliging her, threw out the plainest hints, that Louisa had made him
+advances which would have been very flattering to a heart not pre-engaged,
+till Melanthe, not able to contain her rage, broke out into the fevered
+invectives against the innocent Louisa.—The ungrateful wretch! cried she,
+how dare she presume to envy, much less to offer an interruption to my
+pleasures!—What, have I raised the little wretch to such a forgetfulness
+of herself, that she pretends to rival her mistress and benefactress! In
+the height of her resentment, she related to the count in what manner she
+had taken her into her service; but that finding her, as she imagined, a
+girl of prudence, she had made her a companion during her travels, and as
+such treated her with respect, and made others do so too;—but, said she,
+I will reduce her to what she was, and since she knows not how to prize
+the honour of my friendship, make her feel the severities of servitude.</p>
+<p>Nothing could be more astonishing, and at the same time more pleasing
+to count Bellfleur than this discovery: what he felt for Louisa could not
+be called love, he desired only to enjoy her; and the knowledge of her
+meanness, together with Melanthe's resentment, which he doubted not but he
+should be able to improve to the turning her out of doors, made him
+imagine she would then be humbled enough to accept of any, offers he might
+make her.</p>
+<p>Pursuant to this cruel aim, he told Melanthe, that now not thinking
+himself under any obligation to conceal the whole of the affair, he must
+confess Louisa had not only made him advances, but gone so far as to
+discover a very great passion for him.—As I had never, said he, given her
+the least room to hope I was ambitious of any favours from her of that
+nature, I could not help thinking she was guilty of some indecencies
+ill-becoming a woman of condition, as well as infidelity to her friendship
+for you, whom she might well see I adored:—but alas! I little suspected
+the obligations she had to you, and now I know what she is, am in the
+utmost consternation at her ingratitude, impudence and stupidity. Heavens!
+added he, could she have the vanity to imagine that the genteel garb you
+had put her in, could raise her to such an equality, as to make me
+hesitate one moment if I should give the balance of merit on her side, and
+quit the amiable Melanthe for the pert charms of her woman?</p>
+<p>Melanthe, believing every thing he said on this occasion, was ready to
+burst with indignation; which impatient to give vent to, parted from her
+lover much sooner than she was accustomed, in order to wreak on the poor
+Louisa all that rage and malice could suggest.</p>
+<p>That innocent maid, little suspecting the misfortune that was falling
+on her, was at ombre with some ladies who came to visit them, when the
+furious Melanthe came home, and taking this opportunity of heightening her
+intended revenge by making it more public,—so, minx, said she to her,
+after having made her compliments to the company, you ape the woman of
+fashion exceeding well, as you imagine; but hereafter know yourself, and
+keep the distance that becomes you. With these words she gave her a push
+from the table in so rough a manner, that the cards fell out of her hand.</p>
+<p>It is hard to say whether Louisa herself, or the ladies who were
+present, were most astonished at this behaviour; every one looked one upon
+another without speaking for some time: at last Louisa, who wanted not
+spirit, and on this occasion testified an uncommon presence of mind,—if I
+have seemed otherways than what I am, madam, said she, it was your
+commands obliged me to it:—I never yet forgot myself, and shall as
+readily resume what distance you are pleased to enjoin me. Insolent,
+ungrateful wretch, cried Melanthe, vexed to the soul to find her seem so
+little shocked at what she had done, if I permitted you any liberties, it
+was because I thought you merited them;—but get out of my sight, and dare
+not to come into it again till I send for you. I shall obey you, madam,
+replied Louisa, and perhaps be as well pleased to be your servant as
+companion.</p>
+<p>This resignation and seeming tranquility under an insult, she expected
+would have been so mortifying, was the greatest disappointment could be
+given to Melanthe, and increased her rage to such a degree, that she flew
+to her as she was going out of the room, and struck her several blows,
+using at the same time expressions not decent to repeat, but such, as in
+some unguarded moments, women of quality level themselves with the vulgar
+enough to be guilty of. This is a behaviour, madam, which demeans yourself
+much more than me, said Louisa, and when reason gets the better of your
+passion, I doubt not but you will be just enough to acknowledge you have
+injured me.</p>
+<p>She got out of the room with these words, but heard Melanthe still
+outrageous in her reproaches; but determined not to answer, made what
+haste she could into her own chamber, where having shut herself in, she
+gave a loose to the distraction so unexpected an event must naturally
+occasion.</p>
+<p>Pride is a passion so incident to human nature, that there is no breast
+whatever that has not some share of it; and it would be to describe Louisa
+such as no woman ever was, or ever can be, especially at her years, to say
+she was not sensibly touched at the indignity she had received from a
+person, but a few hours before, had treated her as pretty near an equality
+with herself.—Nor was her amazement inferior to her grief, when after
+examining, with the utmost care, all her words and actions, she could find
+nothing in either that could possibly give occasion for this sudden turn.</p>
+<p>From the present, she cast thoughts back on the past accidents of her
+life, and comparing them together, how cruelly capricious is my fate, said
+she, which never presents me with a good but to be productive of an
+adequate evil!—How great a blessing was the protection and tenderness I
+found from Dorilaus, yet how unhappy did the too great increase of that
+tenderness render, me!—What now avails all the friendship received from
+Melanthe, but to make me the less able to support her ill usage!—And
+what, of what advantage is it to me that I am beloved by a man the most
+worthy to be loved, since I am of a condition which forbids me to give any
+encouragement to his, or my own wishes!</p>
+<p>In this manner did she pour forth the troubles of her soul, till the
+hour of supper being arrived, Melanthe's woman knocked at the chamber, and
+Louisa having opened it, she told her that she was sorry to see such an
+alteration in the family, but it was her ladyship's pleasure that she
+should eat at the second table. It is very well, said Louisa, resolving,
+whatever she endured, not to let Melanthe see any thing she could do
+disturbed her too much, and in saying so, went with her into the hall and
+sat down to table, but with what appetite I leave the reader to guess.</p>
+<p>Melanthe, who now hated her to a greater degree than ever she had loved
+her, gave to the ladies who were with her the whole history of Louisa, as
+far as she knew of it, and rather aggravated, than any way softened the
+mean condition from which she had relieved her; but when they asked her
+what that unhappy creature had done to forfeit a continuance of her
+goodness, she only answered in general, that she had found her to be an
+ungrateful and perfidious wretch.</p>
+<p>As she mentioned no particular influence on which this accusation was
+grounded, every one was at liberty to judge of it as they pleased.—The
+accomplishments Louisa was mistress of, made every one convinced she had
+been educated in no mean way, tho' by some accidents she might have been
+reduced to the calamities Melanthe had so largely expatiated upon, and
+more there were who pitied her than approved the behaviour of her
+superior:—some indeed, who had envied the praises they had heard bestowed
+on her, were rejoiced at her fall, and made it a matter of mirth wherever
+they came;—and others again thought themselves affronted by having a
+person, who they now found was no more than a servant, introduced into
+their company, and would never visit Melanthe afterward the whole time she
+stayed in Venice.</p>
+<p>The affair, however, occasioned a great deal of discourse: monsieur du
+Plessis heard of it the next day related after different fashions. The
+concern he was in was conformable to the passion he had for the fair
+occasion, and both beyond what is ordinarily to be found in persons of his
+sex. Impatient to know the truth he went to Melanthe's, and she happening
+to be abroad, he desired to speak to Louisa, but was told she was
+indisposed, and could see no company. These orders had been given by
+Melanthe, but were very agreeable to Louisa herself, who desired to avoid
+the sight of every one she had conversed with in a different manner from
+what she could now expect; but of the whole world this gentleman she most
+wished to shun.</p>
+<p>He concealed the trouble he was in as well as he was able, and
+affecting a careless air, told the person who answered him, that he only
+came to ask if she had heard the last new song, and that he would send it
+to her.</p>
+<p>The moment he came home he sat down and wrote the following billet. <br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the ever charming</i> LOUISA.<br/>
+"That invincible bar you mentioned, yet<br/>
+made so great a secret of, is at last revealed,<br/>
+and I should be unworthy of the blessing I aspire<br/>
+to, if I were unable to surmount it.<br/>
+Cruel Louisa! you little know me, or the force<br/>
+of that passion you have inspired, to imagine<br/>
+that any difference which chance may have put<br/>
+between us, can make the least alteration in my<br/>
+sentiments!—It is to your own perfections I<br/>
+have devoted my heart, not to the merit or<br/>
+grandeur of your ancestors. What has my love<br/>
+to do with fortune, or with family!—Does a<br/>
+diamond lose any thing of its intrinsic value for<br/>
+being presented by an unknown, or an obscure<br/>
+hand?—My eyes convince me of the charms<br/>
+of my adored Louisa; my understanding shews<br/>
+me those of her mind; and if heaven vouchsafes<br/>
+to bless me with so rich a jewel, I never shall<br/>
+examine whence it came.—If therefore I am<br/>
+not so unhappy as to be hated by you, let not<br/>
+vain punctilloes divide us, and, as the first proof<br/>
+of my inviolable passion, permit me to remove<br/>
+you from a place where you have met with such<br/>
+unworthy treatment:—I hope you wrong me<br/>
+not so far as to suspect I any other designs<br/>
+on you than such as are consistent with the<br/>
+strictest honour; but to prevent all scruples of<br/>
+that nature from entering your gentle breast, I<br/>
+would wish to place you in a convent, the<br/>
+choice of which shall be your own, provided it<br/>
+may be where I sometimes may be allowed to<br/>
+pay my vows to you thro' the grate, till time<br/>
+shall have sufficiently proved my fidelity, and<br/>
+you shall prevail on yourself to recempence my<br/>
+flame, by bestowing on me your hand and heart:—the<br/>
+one I would not ask without the other;<br/>
+but both together would render the happiest of<br/>
+mankind.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your eternally devoted</i><br/>
+<br/>
+Du Plessis.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> As I perceive it will be next to an impossibility<br/>
+to gain a sight of you while you continue<br/>
+with that ungenerous woman, I entreat<br/>
+to know by a line how I stand in your opinion,<br/>
+and if the offers I make you, in the sincerity<br/>
+of my soul, may be thought worthy<br/>
+your acceptance."</p>
+<p>This epistle he ordered his valet de chambre to give to her own hand,
+if there were a possibility of it; and the fellow so well executed his
+commission, being acquainted with Melanthe's servants, that he was carried
+directly up to her chamber. She was a little surprized to see him, because
+she knew it was contrary to Melanthe's commands that any one should see
+her; and doubted not but to find she was treated with any kind of respect,
+would enhance her ill humour to her. But she said nothing that discovered
+her sentiments on this point, and with all the appearance of a perfect
+ease of mind, asked what he had to deliver to her. Only a song,
+mademoiselle, answered he, which my master ordered me to give you, and to
+desire you will let him know how you like it:—he says it might be turned
+into an admirable duetto, and begs you would employ your genius on that
+score and send it by me.</p>
+<p>Poor Louisa, who took his words literally, and thought her present
+circumstances too discordant for the fulfilling his request, opened the
+supposed piece of music with an aking heart; but when she had perused it,
+and found the artifice her lover had made use of to communicate his
+generous intentions to her, it is extremely fine, said she to the valet,
+and I will do what he requires to the best of my power, but fear I shall
+not be able to give it such a turn as he may expect. If you please,
+continued she, to wait a little, I shall not be long before I dispatch
+you. In speaking these words she went into her closet, and read over and
+over the offers he had made, in which, with the strictest examination, she
+could find nothing but what indicated the most perfect love, honour, and
+generosity. In the first transports of her soul she was tempted to comply;
+but her second thoughts were absolutely against it.—Those very reasons
+which would have prevailed with almost any other woman, made her obstinate
+to refuse:—the more she found him worthy, the less could she support the
+thoughts of giving him a beggar for a wife; and the more she loved him,
+the less could she content to be obliged to him; so she took but a small
+time for consideration, before she returned an answer in these terms:</p>
+<p><i>To the most accomplished, and most generous monsieur</i> DU PLESSIS.<br/>
+<br/>
+"As it was not owing to my pride or vanity,<br/>
+but merely compliance with the will of<br/>
+Melanthe, that my real meanness was made a<br/>
+secret, I find it revealed without any mortification;<br/>
+but, monsieur, the distance between us<br/>
+is not shortened by being known: as the consciousness<br/>
+of my unworthiness remains with<br/>
+me, and ever must do so, I again repeat the<br/>
+impossibility of accepting your too generous passion,<br/>
+and, after this, you will not wonder I<br/>
+should refuse those other obliging offers you are<br/>
+so good to make.—I left my native country<br/>
+with Melanthe, devoted myself to her service<br/>
+while she was pleased to continue me in it, and<br/>
+only wait her commands for my doing so, or to<br/>
+return to England.—I believe, by what her<br/>
+woman told me this day, the latter will be my<br/>
+fate.—Think not, however, most truly worthy<br/>
+of your whole sex, that I want eyes to distinguish<br/>
+your merits, or a heart capable of being<br/>
+influenced by them, perhaps too deeply for my<br/>
+own future peace:—this is a confession I would<br/>
+not have made, were I ever to see you more;<br/>
+but as I am determined to shut myself from all<br/>
+the world during my abode at Venice, I thought<br/>
+I owed this little recompence to the generous<br/>
+affection you express for me, and had rather you<br/>
+should think any thing of me, than that I am<br/>
+ungrateful.<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>P.S.</i> I beg, monsieur, after this, you will not<br/>
+attempt either to speak or write to me."</p>
+<p>When she had sent this away, she fell into fresh complainings at the
+severity of her fate, which constrained her to refuse what most she
+languished for:—the uncertainty how she should be disposed of was also a
+matter of grief:—she was at this time a prisoner in Melanthe's house: she
+had sent several messages to that lady, by her woman, entreating to know
+in what she had offended, but could receive no other answer than abuses,
+without one word which gave her the least light into the cause of this
+strange treatment; but that morning she was informed, by the same woman,
+that her Lady protested she should never more come into her presence, and
+that she would send her home: this, as she had wrote to monsieur du
+Plessis, seemed highly probable, as there was no appearance of a
+reconciliation; and the thoughts in what manner she should begin her life
+again, on her return, filled her with many anxieties, which, joined to
+others of a different nature, rendered her condition truly pitiable.</p>
+<p>It was in the midst of these perplexing meditations that word was
+brought her from Melanthe, that she must prepare for her departure on the
+ensuing day. It was in vain she again begged leave to see her, and to be
+made acquainted with the reason of her displeasure; but the other would
+not be prevailed upon, but sent her a purse sufficient to defray the
+expences of her journey to England, and bid her woman tell her she had no
+occasion to repine, for she turned her away in a much better condition
+than she had found her.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Louisa is in danger of being ravished by the count de Bellfleur; is
+providentially rescued by monsieur du Plessis, with several other
+particulars</i>.</p>
+<p>Louisa packed up her things, as she had been commanded, tho' with what
+confusion of mind is not easy to be expressed; and, when she was ready to
+go, wrote a letter to Melanthe, thanking her for all the favours she had
+received from her, acknowledging them to be as unmerited as her late
+displeasure, which she conjured her to believe she had never, even in
+thought, done any thing justly to incur;—wished her prosperity, and that
+she might never find a person less faithful to her interests than she had
+been. Having desired her woman to deliver this to her, she took leave of
+the servants, who all loved her extremely, and saw her go with tears in
+their eyes.</p>
+<p>The rout she intended to take was to Padua by water, thence in a post
+chaise to Leghorn, where she was informed, it would be easy to find a ship
+bound for England; to what port was indifferent to her, being now once
+more to seek her fortune, tho' in her native country, and must trust
+wholly to that providence for her future support, which had hitherto
+protected her.</p>
+<p>Accordingly she took her passage to Padua in one of those boats, which
+are continually going between Venice and that city; and it being near the
+close of day when she landed, was obliged to go into an inn, designing to
+lye there that night, and early in the morning set out for Leghorn.</p>
+<p>She was no sooner in bed than, having never been alone in one of those
+places before, a thousand dreadful apprehensions came into her head: all
+the stories she had been told, when a child, of robberies and murders
+committed on travellers in inns, were now revived in her memory:—every
+little noise she heard made her fall into tremblings; and the very
+whistling of the wind, which at another time would have lulled her to
+sleep, now kept her waking: but these ideal terrors had not long possessed
+her, before she had an occasion of real ones, more shocking than her most
+timid fancy could have suggested.</p>
+<p>The wicked count de Bellfleur, who had taken care to prevent the
+passion he had excited in Melanthe against her from growing cool, learned,
+from that deceived lady, in what manner she intended to dispose of her;
+and no sooner heard which way she went than, attended by one servant, who
+was the confidant and tool of all his vices, he took boat for Padua, and
+presently finding out, by describing her, at what inn she was lodged, came
+directly thither; and, having called the man of the house, asked him if
+such a young woman were not lodged there, to which being answered in the
+affirmative, he told him that she was his wife;—that being but lately
+married to her, in compliance with her request, he had brought her to see
+the diversions of the carnival, and that she was eloped, he doubted not,
+but for the sake of a gallant, since he loved her too well to have given
+her any cause to take so imprudent a step.</p>
+<p>The concern he seemed to be under gained immediate credit to all he
+said; which he easily perceiving, I know, said he, that if I have recourse
+to a magistrate I shall have a grant, and proper officers to force her to
+return to her duty; but I would feign reclaim her by fair means:—it is
+death to me to expose her; and if my perswasions will be effectual, the
+world shall never know her fault.</p>
+<p>The innkeeper then told him she was gone to bed, but he would wait on
+him to her chamber, and he might call to her to bid her open the door. No,
+answered the count, if she hears my voice she may, perhaps, be frighted
+enough to commit some desperate action:—you shall therefore speak to her,
+and make some pretence for obliging her to rise.</p>
+<p>On this they both went up, and the man knocked softly at first, but on
+her not answering immediately, more loud.—She, who heard him before, but
+imagining something of what she had heard of others was now going to
+happen to herself, was endeavouring to assume all the courage she could
+for supporting her in whatever exigence heaven should reduce her to:—at
+last she asked who was there, and for what reason she was disturbed. The
+innkeeper then said he wanted something out of the room, and she must
+needs open the door. This she refused to do, but got out of bed and began
+to put on her cloaths, resolving to dye as decently as she could, verily
+believing they were come to rob and murder her.</p>
+<p>The man, who spoke all by the count's direction, then told her, that if
+she would not open the door, he must be obliged to break it, and presently
+beat so violently against it, that the poor terrified Louisa expected it
+to burst, so thought it would be better to unbolt it of her own accord,
+than, by a vain resistance, provoke worse usage than she might otherwise
+receive: but what was her astonishment when she beheld the count de
+Bellfleur! On the first moment the words monsieur du Plessis repeated to
+her, that <i>he would have her one way or another,</i> came into her mind,
+and made her give a great shriek; but then almost at the same time the
+thought that he might possibly be sent by Melanthe to bring her back,
+somewhat mitigated her fears.—Unable was she to speak, however; and the
+consternation she appeared to be in at his presence, joined with his
+taking her by the hand and bidding her be under no apprehensions,
+confirmed the truth of what he had told the innkeeper, who thinking he had
+no other business there, and they would be soonest reconciled when alone,
+left them, together and went down stairs.</p>
+<p>When the count saw he was gone,—I could not support the thoughts of
+seeing you no more, my dear Louisa, said he; I have heard Melanthe's cruel
+usage of you, and also that your condition is such, that you have no
+friends in England to receive you if you should prosecute your journey:—I
+come therefore to make you an offer, which, in your present circumstances,
+you will find it imprudent, I believe, to reject:—I long have loved you,
+and if you will be mine, will keep you concealed at a house where I can
+confide, till my return to the army; then will take the fame care of you,
+and place you somewhere near my own quarters; and, as I shall go to Paris
+as soon as the next campaign is over, will there provide for you in as
+handsome a manner as you can wish;—for be assured, dear lovely girl, that
+no woman upon earth will ever be capable of making me forsake you.</p>
+<p>That she had patience to hear him talk so long in this manner, was
+wholly owing to the fear and surprize she had been in, and perhaps had not
+yet recovered enough from, to make any reply to what he said, if he had
+contented himself only with words; but his actions rouzing a different
+passion in her soul, she broke from his arms, into which, he had snatched
+her at the conclusion of his speech, and looking on him with eyes
+sparkling with disdain and rage,—perfidious man! cried she, is
+this,—this the consequence of the vows you made Melanthe; and do you
+think, after this knowledge of your baseness, I can harbour any idea of
+you, but what is shocking and detestable!</p>
+<p>I never loved Melanthe, by heaven, resumed he; she made me advance, and
+not to have returned, them, would have called even my common civility in
+question;—but from the first moment I saw your beauties, I was determined
+to neglect nothing that might give me the enjoyment of them:—fortune has
+crowned my wishes, you are in my power, and it would be madness in you to
+lose the merit of yielding, and I compel me to be obliged to my own
+strength for a pleasure I would rather owe to your softness:—come, come,
+continued he, after having fastened the door, let us go to bed;—I will
+save your modesty, by pulling your cloaths off myself. In speaking this he
+catched hold of her again, and attempted to untye a knot which fastened
+her robe de chambre at the breast. On this she gave such shrieks, and
+stamped with her feet so forcibly on the ground, that the innkeeper
+fearing the incensed husband, as he supposed him to be, was going to kill
+her, ran hastily up stairs, and called to have the door opened, saying, he
+would have no murder in his house.</p>
+<p>The artful count immediately let him in, and told him, he need be under
+no apprehensions, his wife was too dear to him to suffer any thing from
+his resentment; and all the noise you heard, said he, was only because I
+insisted on her going to bed! By these words Louisa discovered how he had
+imposed upon the man, and cried out she was not his wife; but as she spoke
+very bad Italian, and the man understood no French, the count being very
+fluent in that language, had much the advantage, the innkeeper was fully
+satisfied, and they were again left alone, having a second opportunity to
+prosecute his villanous attempt.</p>
+<p>You see, said he, how much in vain it is for you to resist:—would it
+not be wiser in you, therefore, to meet my flames with equal warmth;—to
+feign a kindness even if you have none, and thereby oblige me to use you
+with a future tenderness:—believe I love you now with an extravagance of
+fondness:—it is in your power to preserve that affection for ever:—give
+me then willingly that charming mouth.</p>
+<p>He had all this time been kissing her with the utmost eagerness, so
+that with all her struggling she had not been able either to disengage
+herself from his embrace, or to utter one word; and he was very near
+forcing from her yet greater liberties, when all at once heaven gave her
+strength to spring suddenly from him, and running to a table where he had
+laid his sword, she drew it out of the scabbard with so much speed, that
+he could not prevent her, and making a push at him with one hand, kept him
+from closing with, or disarming her, till with the other she had plucked
+back the bolt of the door.</p>
+<p>In this posture she flew down stairs, and reached the hall before he
+overtook her, quite breathless and ready to faint. He was going to lay
+hold of her, when he found himself seized behind by two persons, whom, on
+turning to examine the reason, he found was monsieur du Plessis and the
+innkeeper. He started at the sight of that gentleman, and was going to say
+somewhat to him in French, when the innkeeper told him, the young woman
+should be molested no farther till he knew the truth of the affair; for,
+said he, there is a person, meaning monsieur du Plessis, who is just come
+in, and says she has no husband, and belongs to an English lady of quality
+now at Venice:—I will therefore take care of her this night, and if you
+have any real claim to her, you may make it out before the magistrate
+to-morrow.</p>
+<p>The count was so enraged to find it had been by monsieur du Plessis he
+had been disappointed, that he snatched his sword from Louisa, who had all
+this time held it in her hand, and made so furious a thrust at him, that,
+had he not been more than ordinary nimble in avoiding it, by stepping
+aside, it must have infallibly gone thro' his body.—He immediately drew
+and stood on his defence, but the innkeeper and several other people, whom
+Louisa's cries had by this time brought into the hall, prevented any
+mischief.</p>
+<p>The confusion of voices and uproar which this accident occasioned,
+would suffer nothing to be heard distinctly; but the guilt of count
+Bellfleur might easily be read in his looks, and not able to stand the
+test of any enquiry, he departed with his servant, casting the most
+malicious reflections as he went out, both on Louisa and her deliverer.</p>
+<p>Du Plessis less affected, because innocent, gave every one the
+satisfaction they desired: he said that the young lady being of English
+birth, came along with a lady of her own country, to visit several parts
+of Europe merely for pleasure; that the lady was still at Venice, and that
+on some little disgust between them, she who was there, meaning Louisa,
+had quitted her, and was now returning home by the way of Leghorn; of the
+truth of what he told them, he added, they might be informed, by sending
+to Venice the next day.</p>
+<p>He also said, that having a business to be negotiated in England, he
+had followed this young lady, in order to beg the favour of her to deliver
+letters to some friends he had there, not having the opportunity of making
+this request before, by reason of her departure having been so sudden,
+that he knew nothing of it before she was gone.</p>
+<p>The truth of all this Louisa confirmed, and on farther talk of the
+affair, acquainted them, that the gentleman who had occasioned this
+disturbance, for she forbore mentioning his name, had often sollicited her
+love on unlawful terms, and being rejected by her, had taken this
+dishonourable way of compassing his desires, at a place where he knew she
+was alone, and wholly a stranger.</p>
+<p>The fright and confusion she had been in, had rendered her so faint,
+that it was with infinite difficulty she brought out these words; but
+having something given her to refresh her spirits, and being conducted
+into another room out of the crowd, she began, by degrees, to recover
+herself.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis then informed her, that on coming to Melanthe's,
+and hearing she was gone, he immediately took boat, resolving to prevail
+on her to alter her resolution of going to England, or dye at her feet:
+that he easily found the inn she was at, and that the man of the house
+presently told him, such a person as he described was there; but that he
+understood she had eloped from her husband, who had pursued, and was now
+above with her.</p>
+<p>Never, said this faithful lover, did any horror equal what I felt at
+this intelligence!—The base count de Bellfleur came presently into my
+mind:—I thought it could be no other who had taken this abhored method of
+accomplishing the menaces you may remember I repeated to you:—I was going
+to fly up stairs that instant, but was withheld, and found it best to
+argue the man into reason, who, I found, was fully prepossessed you were
+his wife: as I was giving some part of your history, I saw the count's man
+passing thro' the hall; he saw me too, and would have avoided me, but I
+ran to him, seized him by the throat, and asked him what business had
+brought either him or his master to this place: the disorder he was in,
+and the hesitation with which he spoke, together with refusing to give any
+direct answer, very much staggered the innkeeper, who was just consenting
+to go up with me to your chamber, and examine into the truth of this
+affair, when we saw you come down, armed as your virtue prompted, and at
+the same time flying from the villain's pursuit.</p>
+<p>Louisa could not help confessing that she owed the preservation of her
+honour wholly to him; for, said she, the people were so fully persuaded
+not only that I was his wife, but also that I had fled from him on some
+unwarrantable intent, that all I did, or could have done, would only have
+served to render me more guilty in their opinion; and it must have been by
+death alone I could have escaped the monster's more detested lust.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis now made use of every argument that love and wit
+could inspire, to prevail with her to accept of the offer contained in the
+letter he had wrote to her; and concluded with reminding her, that if the
+charming confession her answer had made him was to be depended on, and
+that she had indeed a heart not wholly uninfluenced by his passion, she
+would not refuse agreeing to a proposal, which not the most rigid virtue
+and honour could disapprove.</p>
+<p>Louisa on this replied with blushes, that since, by the belief she
+should never see him more, she had been unwarily drawn in to declare
+herself so far, she neither could, nor would attempt to deny what she had
+said; but, added she, it is perhaps, by being too much influenced by your
+merits, that I find myself obliged to refuse what you require of me:—I
+cannot think, cried she, of rendering unhappy a person who so much
+deserves to be blessed:—and what but misery would attend a match so
+unequal as yours would be with me!—How would your kindred brook it!—How
+would the world confuse and ridicule the fondness of an affection so ill
+placed!—What would they say when they should hear the nobly born, the
+ rich, and the accomplished monsieur du Plessis, had taken for his wife a
+ maid obscurely defended, and with no other dowry than her virtue!—My
+ very affection for you would, in the general opinion, lose all its merit,
+ and pass for sordid interest:—I should be looked upon as the bane of
+ your glory;—as one whose artifices had ensnared you into a forgetfulness
+ of what you owed to yourself and family, and be despised and hated by all
+ who have a regard for you.—This, monsieur, continued she, is what I
+ cannot bear, neither for your sake nor my own, and entreat you will no
+ farther urge a suit, which all manner of considerations forbid me to
+ comply with.</p>
+<p>The firmness and resolution with which she uttered these words, threw
+him into the most violent despair; and here might be seen the difference
+between a sincere and counterfeited passion: the one is timid, fearful of
+offending, and modest even to its own loss;—the other presuming, bold,
+and regardless of the consequences, presses, in spight of opposition, to
+its desired point.</p>
+<p>Louisa had too much penetration not to make this distinction: she saw
+the truth of his affection in his grief, and that awe which deterred him
+from expressing what he felt:—she sympathized in all his pains, and for
+every sigh his oppressed heart sent forth, her own wept tears of blood;
+yet not receding from the resolution she had formed, nothing could be more
+truly moving than the scene between them.</p>
+<p>At length he ceased to mention marriage, but conjured her to consider
+the snares which would be continually laid, by wicked and designing men,
+for one so young and beautiful:—that she could go no where without
+finding other Bellfleurs; and she might judge, by the danger she had just
+now so narrowly escaped, of the probability of being involved again in the
+same:—he represented to her, in the most pathetic terms, that her
+innocence could have no sure protection but in the arms of a husband, or
+the walls of a convent; and on his knees beseeched her, for the sake of
+that virtue which she so justly prized, since she would not accept of him
+for the one, to permit him to place her in that other only asylum for a
+person in her circumstances.</p>
+<p>Difficult was it for her to resist an argument, the reason of which she
+was so well convinced of, and could offer nothing in contradiction to, but
+that she had a certain aversion in her nature to receive any obligations
+from a man who had declared himself her lover, and who might possibly
+hereafter presume upon the favours he had done her.</p>
+<p>It was in vain he complained of her unjust suspicion in this point,
+which, to remove, he protested to her that he would leave the choice of
+the monastry wholly to herself: that in whatever part she thought would be
+most agreeable, he would conduct her; and that, after she was entered, he
+would not even attempt to see her thro' the grate, without having first
+received her permission for his visit. Not all this was sufficient to
+assure her scrupulous delicacy: she remained constant in her
+determination; and all he could prevail on her, was leave to attend her as
+far as Leghorn, to secure her from any second attempt the injurious count
+might possibly make.</p>
+<p>After this they entered into some discourse of Melanthe, and whether it
+would be proper for Louisa to write her an account of this affair, and the
+count's perfidiousness. Monsieur du Plessis said, he thought that the late
+usage she had received from that lady, deserved not she should take any
+interest in her affairs; but it was not this that hindered Louisa from
+doing it:—the remembrance of the kindness she had once been treated with
+by her, more than balanced, in her way of thinking, all the insults that
+succeeded it; and when she reflected how much Melanthe loved the count,
+and that she had already granted him all the favours in her power, it
+seemed to her rather an act of cruelty than friendship, to acquaint her
+with this ingratitude, and thereby anticipate a misfortune, which,
+perhaps, by his artifices and continued dissimulation, might be for a long
+time concealed: therefore, for this reason, she exacted a promise from
+monsieur du Plessis not to make any noise of this affair at his return to
+Venice, unless the count, by some rash and precipitate behaviour, should
+enforce him to it.</p>
+<p>This injunction discovered so forgiving a sweetness of disposition in
+the person who made it, that monsieur du Plessis could not refrain
+testifying his admiration by the most passionate exclamations; in which
+perhaps he had continued longer, had not the eyes of the fair object
+discovered a certain languishment, which reminded him, he should be
+wanting in the respect he professed, to detain her any longer from that
+repose, which, seemed necessary, after the extraordinary hurry of spirits
+she had sustained; therefore having taken his leave of her for that night,
+retired to a chamber he had ordered to be got ready for him, as did she to
+that where she had been so lately disturbed: but all those who are in the
+least capable of any idea of those emotions, which agitated the minds of
+both these amiable persons, will believe neither of them slept much that
+night.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The Innkeepers scruples oblige Louisa to write to Melanthe: her
+behavior on the discovery of the count's falshood. Louisa changes her
+resolution and goes to Bolognia</i>.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis, having found it impossible to dissuade Louisa from
+going to England, now bent his whole thoughts to perform his promise of
+conducting her to Leghorn, in the most commodious manner he could;
+accordingly he rose very early, and calling for the man of the house,
+desired he would provide a handsome post chaise, and if he knew any
+fellows whose integrity might be relied on, he thought necessary to hire
+two such, who, furnished with fire-arms, might serve as a guard against
+any attack the count might take it into his head to make.</p>
+<p>But the innkeeper had now entertained notions that forbid him to
+correspond with the designs of monsieur: some of his neighbours, who had
+heard of last night's accident, whispered it in his ears, that it would
+not be safe for him to let these young people depart together; that he
+could not be assured the person, who pretended to be the husband, might not
+be so in reality; and if he should come again with proper officers and
+proofs to claim his wife, it might be of dangerous consequence to him to
+have favoured her escape; and that the only way he had to secure himself
+from being brought into trouble, was to lay the whole affair before the
+podestat. This advice seemed to him too reasonable not to be complied
+with: he went directly to that magistrate, and while the lover was
+speaking to him, officers came in to seize both him and Louisa, and carry
+them before the podestat.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was very much surprized and vexed at this
+interruption, and the more so, as he feared it would terrify Louisa to a
+greater degree than the nature of the thing required; but in this he did
+injury to her courage: when she was called up and informed of the
+business, she surrendered herself with all the dauntlessness of innocence
+to the officers, and suffered them to conduct her, with du Plessis, to the
+house of the podestat.</p>
+<p>Both of them flattered themselves with the belief, that when he should
+come to hear the story, they would be immediately discharged; but he
+happened to be one of those who are over wary in the execution of their
+office; and he only told them, that what they said might be true, but he
+was not to take things on the bare word of the parties themselves; and
+that therefore they must be confined till either the person who claimed
+the woman for his wife, should bring proofs she was so, or she should be
+able to make out he had no right over her.</p>
+<p>That is easy for me to do, said Louisa; I am only concerned that this
+gentleman, meaning du Plessis, should be detained on an account he has no
+manner of interest in. The podestat answered, it was unavoidable, because
+as the person, who said he was her husband, had accused her of an
+elopement, there was all the reason in the world to suppose that if it
+were so, it was in favour of this gentleman, by the rage he was informed
+he had testified at finding him in Padua.</p>
+<p>Louisa gave only a scornful smile, denoting how much she disdained a
+crime of the nature she was suspected of, and followed one of the
+officers, who conducted her to the place appointed for her confinement.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was touched to the soul at the indignity he thought
+offered to this sovereign of his affections; but he restrained himself
+when he considered that it had the sanction of law, which in all nations
+must be submitted to; and he only told the podestat, that the virtue of
+that lady would soon be cleared, to the confusion of those who had
+presumed to traduce it.</p>
+<p>As, after they were under confinement, they had no opportunity of
+advising each other what to do, monsieur du Plessis, uneasy at the
+injustice done him, wrote immediately to the prince of Conti, in these
+terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To his Royal Highness the Prince of</i> CONTI.<br/>
+<br/>
+"It is with the extremest reluctance I give<br/>
+your royal highness this trouble, or find myself<br/>
+obliged to accuse the count de Bellfleur of<br/>
+an action so dishonourable to our nation; but<br/>
+as I am here under confinement for preventing<br/>
+him from committing a rape on a young English<br/>
+lady, who failing to seduce at Venice, he followed<br/>
+hither; and under the pretence of being<br/>
+her husband, gained the people of the house on<br/>
+his side, and had infallibly compassed his intent,<br/>
+had it not been for my seasonable interposition:<br/>
+I am too well convinced of the justice I presume<br/>
+to implore, to doubt if your highness will<br/>
+oblige him to clear up the affair to the podestat,<br/>
+on which she will be at liberty to prosecute her<br/>
+journey, and I to throw myself, with the utmost<br/>
+gratitude and submission, at your feet, who have<br/>
+the honour to be<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your royal highness's</i><br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most devoted</i><br/>
+<br/>
+DU PLESSIS."<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Padua.</i></p>
+<p>Louisa, who was ignorant what her lover had done, and knew no other
+way, than by writing to Melanthe, to extricate herself from this trouble,
+sent a letter to her, the contents whereof were as follows:<br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+<br/>
+"On what imagined cause whatever you were<br/>
+pleased to banish me, I am certain you<br/>
+have too much goodness to suffer any one,<br/>
+much less a person you have once honoured<br/>
+with your friendship, to remain in prison for a<br/>
+crime it is impossible for me to be guilty of:—I<br/>
+am sorry I must accuse a person so dear to<br/>
+you;—but it is, madam, no other than the<br/>
+unworthy count de Bellfleur, who followed me<br/>
+hither, came into the inn where I was lodged,<br/>
+into the very chamber, and oh! I tremble<br/>
+while I relate it, had proceeded yet farther; and<br/>
+I had been inevitably lost, had not heaven sent<br/>
+me a deliverer in the unexpected arrival of monsieur<br/>
+du Plessis, who is also a prisoner as well<br/>
+as myself, for the timely rescue he gave me.<br/>
+You will wonder, doubtless, by what law either<br/>
+I should be confined for endeavouring to defend<br/>
+my chastity, or he, for generously assisting me;<br/>
+but the detested artful count had pretended himself<br/>
+my husband; and under the sanction of<br/>
+that name it was, that he met no opposition to<br/>
+his wicked will from the people of the house,<br/>
+and rendered them regardless of my shrieks and<br/>
+cries.—The magistrates are yet dubious of the<br/>
+truth; and till it can be proved what I really am,<br/>
+both myself and monsieur du Plessis must continue<br/>
+where we are:—have pity on me, therefore,<br/>
+I conjure you, madam, and write to the podestat:<br/>
+I have already told him I had the honour to<br/>
+belong to you;—a line from you will confirm<br/>
+it, and once more set at liberty a maid, who<br/>
+will ever remember all your favours with the<br/>
+greatest gratitude, and your withdrawing them<br/>
+as the worst misfortune could have befallen.<br/>
+<br/>
+MADAM,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>From the prison<br/>
+at Padua.<br/>
+<br/>
+Your most faithful, and<br/>
+Most humble servant</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA."<br/>
+</p>
+<p>These letters were sent away by special messengers, who had orders to
+be as expeditious as possible in the delivery of them.</p>
+<p>But while these accidents happened at Padua, Melanthe was not without
+her share of inquietudes at Venice: she had not seen her beloved count in
+two whole days, and, tho' she sent several times to his lodgings, could
+hear nothing but that he was not yet come home. As her vanity would not
+suffer her to think herself neglected, without having received some
+glaring proofs of it, she feared some misfortune had befallen him, and
+exposed herself not a little in the enquiries she made after him, among
+all those who she could imagine were able to inform her any thing
+concerning him.</p>
+<p>At length some person, who happened to see him take boat, told her he
+was gone to Padua, which being the rout she knew Louisa had taken, and she
+had also informed him, a sudden thought darted into her head that he was
+gone in pursuit of her.—It now seemed not impossible, but that all he had
+said concerning his dislike of her might be artifice; and that the love of
+variety might prevail on him at last to comply with the advances he
+pretended she had made him.—The privacy with which he went, none of his
+acquaintance knowing any thing of his journey, seemed to favour this
+opinion; and never was a heart more racked with jealousy and suspence,
+than that of this unhappy, and too easily deceived lady.</p>
+<p>She had sometimes an inclination to go to Padua in person, and
+endeavour to find out what business had carried him thither; and her
+impatience had doubtless got the better of her prudence in this
+particular, if, sending once more to his lodgings, she had not heard he
+was returned.—On this she expected to see him in the evening, and
+flattered herself with his being able to make some reasonable excuse for
+his absence; but finding he came not, she was all distraction, and sent a
+billet to him next morning, requiring him to come to her immediately on
+the receipt of it; but as he was at that time in too ill a humour to think
+of entertaining her, sent her an answer by word of mouth, that he was
+indisposed, and would wait on her on his recovery.—This message seemed so
+cold, and so unlike the passion he had hitherto professed for her, that it
+threw her into almost convulsive agonies.—A masquerade was to be that
+night at the house of a person of quality: she sent again to know if he
+intended to be there, and, if he did, what habit he would wear, it being
+customary with them, ever since their amour, to acquaint each other with
+their dresses, that they might not mistake, by addressing to wrong
+persons. His reply was, that he would go if health permitted, but as to
+what he should wear he had not as yet thought of it.</p>
+<p>What, if he hat not thought of it! cried she haughtily, when she heard
+these words;—the knowledge that I shall be there, ought now to make him
+think of it.—Pride, love, and the astonishment at this sudden change in
+his behaviour, rendered her wholly forgetful of what she owed her sex and
+rank; and she was just going to his lodgings, in order to upbraid him with
+his indifference, and prove what it was she now had to depend on from him,
+when the messenger from Louisa arrived and delivered her the letter, which
+contained a sad eclaircisement of all she wanted to be informed of.</p>
+<p>At first reading it, she seemed like one transfixed with a sudden clap
+of thunder:—she had indeed been jealous, suspicious, fearful of her fate;
+but so glaring, so impudent a treachery had never entered her head, that
+any man could be guilty of, much less one whom her too fond passion had
+figured to her imagination, as possessed of all the virtues of his sex. It
+seemed too monstrous to be true; and she had accused the innocent Louisa
+as the inventor of this falshood, merely in revenge for her late
+treatment, had there been the least shadow of a pretence for doing
+so:—gladly would she have encouraged such a hope, but common sense forbid
+it;—all circumstances seemed to concur, in proving that he was indeed
+that villain which the letter represented him; and that surprize, which
+had in a manner stupified her on the discovery, was succeeded by a storm
+of mingled grief and rage, which no words can sufficiently describe:—she
+exclaimed against fate, cursed all mankind, and accused every thing as
+accessory to her misfortune, but that to which alone she owed it, her own
+imprudence.</p>
+<p>The disorders of her mind had such an effect on her body, that she fell
+into fits, and a physician was sent for, who, tho' esteemed the most
+skilful in that country, found it required all his art to prevent a fever:
+she continued, however, for five days in a condition, such as permitted
+her not to do any thing either for the satisfaction of her own impatient
+curiosity, or to comply with the just request Louisa had made; and had not
+monsieur du Plessis's letter to the prince been mere successful, they must
+both have continued where they were, perhaps for a considerable time.</p>
+<p>That, however, had all the effect could be expected from a prince of so
+much honour: he immediately sent for the count de Bellfleur; and easily
+finding, by the confusion with which he replied to his examination, and
+the little low evasions he was obliged to have recourse to, that the
+affair was as monsieur du Plessis had represented, gave him a severe
+check, and ordered him to depart immediately from Venice, where he told
+him, he had given such occasion to call the honour of the French nation in
+general in question; and to repair with all expedition to his winter
+quarters. Which command he instantly obeyed, without taking any leave of
+Melanthe, or perhaps even thinking on her.</p>
+<p>At the same time the prince dispatched his gentleman of horse to Padua,
+with necessary instructions for clearing up the affair; on which the
+prisoners were discharged, and their pardon asked by the podestat for
+doing what, he said, the duties of his post had alone obliged him to; tho'
+it is certain he had exercised his authority with greater strictness than
+the necessity of the thing required; since, if the count had been in
+reality the husband of Louisa, it would have been more easy for him to
+bring proofs of it, than for those under confinement to invalidate his
+claim.</p>
+<p>After the proper compliments to the gentleman who had taken this
+trouble, monsieur du Plessis entreated he would excuse him to the prince,
+that he retarded the thanks he had to pay his royal highness, till his
+return from conducting Louisa some part of her journey, which being a
+piece of gallantry the lady herself seemed well pleased with, was easily
+complied with by the other.</p>
+<p>This faithful lover had now a full opportunity to entertain his
+mistress with his passion, and represented it to her with so much force
+and eloquence, together with the dangers she would continually be exposed
+to, that she had at length no words to form denials, and gave him leave to
+conduct her to some monastry in Italy, the choice of which she left to
+him, till the campaign was over. This was indeed all he presumed to
+request of her at present. It may happen, said he, that your lover may
+fall a victim to the fate of war, among many other more brave and worthy
+men, who doubtless will not survive the next battle, and you will then be
+at liberty to pursue your inclinations either to England or elsewhere; and
+be assured of this, that I shall take care, before the hour of danger, to
+leave you mistress of a fortune, sufficient to protect you from any future
+insults of the nature you received from Melanthe.</p>
+<p>The tender soul of Louisa was so much dissolved at these words, that
+she burst into a flood of tears, and cried out, Oh! too generous du
+Plessis, think not I will survive the cruel hour which informs me all that
+is valuable in man has ceased to be!—Take,—oh! take no care for me; when
+you are no more, nothing this world affords can enable me to drag on a
+wretched life!</p>
+<p>What must be the transport of a man, who loved like him, to hear a
+mouth accustomed to the greatest reserve, utter exclamations so soft, so
+engaging, so convincing to him that he was no less dear to her than he
+could even wish to be!—He threw himself at her feet, and even thought
+that posture not humble enough to testify, as it deserved, his gratitude
+and joy. But she not suffering him to continue in it, he took the hand
+that raised him, kissed off the tears which had fallen from her eyes upon
+it, with speechless extacies, and seemed almost beside himself at the
+concern she could not yet overcome, on the bare imagination of losing him
+in the way he mentioned. If you love me, said she tenderly, you will
+endeavour to preserve yourself:—I have now put myself under your
+protection, by consenting to do as you would have me, and have no other
+from whom I would receive those favours I expect from you:—think not,
+therefore, that I will perform my promise, unless you give me yours, not
+to be so covetous of fame as to court dangers, nor, in too eager a pursuit
+of glory, to lose the remembrance of what you owe to love.</p>
+<p>Oh thou divinest softness! cried he, be assured I will put nothing to
+the venture that might take me from Louisa!—Your kindness, my angel, has
+shewed me the value of life, and almost made a coward of your lover:—no
+farther will I go than the duties of my post oblige me, and that honour,
+which to forfeit, would render me unworthy of your care.</p>
+<p>Louisa now found herself so much at ease, in having discovered a secret
+she had so long laboured with, and suffered an infinity of pain in the
+concealing of, that nothing could be more chearful than her looks and
+behaviour. He, on the other hand, was all rapture, yet did it not make him
+in the least forgetful of the rules he had prescribed himself, or give her
+modesty any room to repent the confession she had made in favour of his
+passion:—the conversation between them was all made up of innocence and
+love; and every hour they passed together, rendered them still dearer to
+each other.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis having thus gained the point his soul was let on,
+began to consider in what part of Italy it would be best to place his dear
+Louisa: as Bolognia was a free country, under the jurisdiction of the
+Pope, he thought she would there be the least subject to alarms, on
+account of the army's continual marches and countermarches thro' most
+other parts of Italy. He therefore got a post-chaise, and by easy journeys
+conducted her thither; and having made an agreement with the lady abbess
+of the Augustines, she was welcomed into the convent by the holy
+sisterhood with all imaginable good-nature and politeness.</p>
+<p>It would be endless to recite the farewels of these equally sincere,
+and passionate lovers; so I shall only say that never any parting was more
+truly touching; and the grief, which both of them endured, was only
+alleviated by the confidence they had in each other's affection, and the
+mutual promises of communicating the assurances of persevering in it, by
+letters as often as opportunity would permit.</p>
+<p>Melanthe being recovered of the indisposition of her body, tho' not of
+her mind, was informed of every particular of her perfidious lover's
+conduct as he had quitted Venice before she did her chamber, was obliged
+to bear the load of discontent her too easy belief had brought upon her,
+without even the poor ease of venting it in reproaches on him. The
+carnival soon after ending, and finding that change of place was no
+defence from misfortunes of the kind she had sustained, without she could
+also change her way of thinking, took the first convenience that offered,
+and returned to England, rather in worse humour than she had left it.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Horatio arrives at Warsaw, sees the coronation of Stanislaus and his
+queen: his reception from the king of Sweden: his promotion: follows that
+prince in all his conquests thro' Poland, Lithuania and Saxony. The story
+of count Patkul and madame de Eusilden.</i></p>
+<p>While these things were transacting in Italy, Horatio, animated by
+love and glory, was pursuing his journey to Poland. His impatience was so
+great, that he travelled almost night and day, already imitating the
+example of the master he was going to serve; no wood, no river was
+impassable to him that shortened the distance to the place he so much
+longed to approach: and thus by inuring himself to hardship, became fitly
+qualified to bear his part in all the vast fatigues to which that prince
+incessantly exposed his royal person.</p>
+<p>Not a city, town, or even village he puffed thro', but echoed with the
+wonders performed by the young king of Sweden:—new victories, new
+acquisitions met him wherever he came:—all tongues were full of his
+praises; and even those who had been ruined by his conquests, could not
+help speaking of him with admiration.—Horatio heard all this with
+pleasure, but mixed with a kind of pain that he was not present at these
+great actions.—How glorious is it, cried he to himself, to fight under
+the banners of this invincible monarch!—What immortal honour has not
+every private man acquired, who contributed the least part to successes
+that astonish the whole world!</p>
+<p>But notwithstanding his eagerness which carried him thro' marshes, over
+mountains, and ways, which to an ordinary traveller would have seemed
+impassable, he met with several delays in his journey, especially when he
+got into Germany, where they were extremely scrupulous; and he was obliged
+to wait at some towns two or three days before he could obtain passports:
+he also met several parties of flying horse and dragoons, who were
+scouting about the country, as he drew nearer Saxony; but his policy
+furnished him with stratagems to get over these difficulties, and he got
+safe to Punitz, in the Palatinate of Posnania, where a great part of the
+king of Sweden's army was encamped.—He immediately demanded to be
+brought to the presence of the grand marshal Renchild, to whom he
+delivered the letter of the baron de la Valiere, and found the good
+effects of it by the civilities with which that great general vouchsafed
+to treat him. He would have had him stay with him; but Horatio, knowing
+the king was at Warsaw, was too impatient of seeing that monarch to be
+prevailed upon, on which he sent a party of horse to escort him to that
+city.</p>
+<p>He had the good fortune to arrive on the very day that Stanislaus and
+his queen were crowned, and was witness of part of the ceremony. The king
+of Sweden was there incognito, and being shewn to Horatio, he could not
+forbear testifying his surprize to see so great a prince, and one who, in
+every action of his life, discovered a magnamity even above his rank,
+habited in a manner not to be distinguished from a private man; but it was
+not in the power of any garb to take from him a look of majesty, which
+shewed him born to command not only his own subjects, but kings
+themselves, when they presumed to become his enemies. There was a
+fierceness in his eyes, but tempered with so much sweetness, that it was
+impossible for those who most trembled at his frowns to avoid loving him
+at the same time.</p>
+<p>Stanislaus had in him all that could attract respect and good wishes;
+beside the most graceful person that can be imagined, he had a certain air
+of grandeur, joined with an openness of behaviour, that shewed him equally
+incapable of doing a mean or dishonourable action: his queen was one of
+the greatest beauties of her time; and every one present at their
+coronation, confessed, that never any two persons more became a throne, or
+were more worthy of the dignity conferred upon them.</p>
+<p>The whole court was too much taken up that day, for Horatio to think of
+presenting himself before the king of Sweden; but the officer, who
+commanded the party that general Renchild had sent with him, introduced
+him in the evening to count Hoorn, governor of Warsaw, who provided him an
+appartment, and the next morning introduced him to count Piper. That
+minister no sooner read the baron de Palfoy's letter, and heard he had
+others to deliver to the king from the chevalier St. George, and the queen
+dowager of England, than he treated him with the utmost marks of esteem;
+and assured him that, since he had an inclination to serve his majesty, he
+would contribute every thing in his power to make him not repent the long
+fatigues he had undergone for that purpose; but, said he with a smile, you
+will have no need of me; you bring, I perceive, recommendations more
+effectual, and have besides, in yourself, sufficient to engage all you
+have to wish from a monarch so just and generous as ours.</p>
+<p>Horatio replied to this compliment with all humility; and as the count
+perceived by his accents that he was not a Frenchman, tho' he spoke the
+language perfectly well, he asked him of what country he was; to which
+Horatio replied, that he was of England, but made him no farther
+acquainted with his affairs, nor that the motive of his having remained so
+long in France, was because he was not ransomed by his friends: not that
+he concealed this out of pride, but he knew the character of most first
+ministers, and thought it not prudence to unbosom himself to one of those,
+whose first study, when they come into that employment, is to discover as
+much as they can of others, without revealing any thing of themselves. For
+this reason he was also very sparing of entering into any discourse of the
+chevalier's court, or of that of the king of France, and answered all the
+questions put to him by the count, that his youth, and being of foreign
+extraction, hindered him from being let into any secrets of state.</p>
+<p>After a pretty long conversation, the count led him to the king of
+Sweden's apartment, where, just as they were about to enter, he asked him
+if he could speak Latin; for, said he, tho' his majesty understands
+French, he never could be brought to speak it, nor is pleased to be
+addressed in that language. Horatio thanked him for this information, and
+told him, that tho' he could not boast of being able to deliver himself
+with an affluence becoming the presence of so great a prince, yet he would
+chuse rather to shew his bad learning, than his want of ambition to do
+every thing that might render himself acceptable.</p>
+<p>As he spoke these words, he found himself in his presence.—The king
+was encompassed by the officers of the army, to whom he was giving some
+directions; but seeing count Piper, and a stranger with him, he left off
+what he was saying, and, without giving him time to speak, cried, Count,
+who have you brought me here? One, may it please your majesty, replied he,
+who brings his credentials with him, and has no need of my intercession to
+engage his welcome. While the count Was making this reply, the king, who
+had an uncommon quickness in his eyes, measured Horatio from head to foot;
+and our young soldier of fortune, without being daunted, put one knee to
+the ground, and delivered his packet with these words:—The princes, by
+whom I have the honour to be sent, commanded me to assure your majesty,
+that they participate in all your dangers, rejoice in all your glories,
+and pray, that as you only conquer for the good of others, the sword you
+draw, in the cause of justice, may at last be sheathed in a lasting and
+universal peace.</p>
+<p>I am afraid it will be long before all that is necessary for that
+purpose is accomplished, said the king; wrong, when established, not
+easily gives place to right;—but we are yet young enough to hope it.</p>
+<p>He broke open his letters as he spoke this; and while he was examining
+them, took his eye off the paper several times to look on Horatio, and
+then read again.</p>
+<p>When he had done, I am much obliged, said he, to the zeal these letters
+tell me you have expressed for my service, and shall not be
+ungrateful:—we are here idle at present but shall not long be so; and you
+will have occasions enough to prove your courage, and gratify that love of
+arms which, my brother informs me, is the predominant passion of your soul.</p>
+<p>After this he asked him several questions concerning the chevalier St.
+George, the queen, and princess Louisa; to which Horatio answered with
+great propriety, but mingled with such encomiums of the royal persons, as
+testified his gratitude for the favours he received from them. But when he
+mentioned the princess, and delivered the message she sent by him, a more
+lively colour flushed into the king's cheeks, and he replied, well, we
+shall do all we can to comply with her commands; then turned quick about,
+and resumed the discourse he was in, before Horatio's entrance, with his
+officers, as much as to say, the business of his love must not interrupt
+that of the war; and Horatio had afterwards the opportunity of observing,
+that tho' he often looked upon the picture of that amiable princess, which
+he always wore in his bosom, yet he would on a sudden snatch his eyes
+away, as fearing to be too much softened.</p>
+<p>Horatio was ordered to be lodged in the castle where the garrison was
+kept; but he was every day at the king's levee, and received the most
+extraordinary marks of his favour and affection; for which, as he looked
+upon himself entirely indebted to the recommendations of his friends in
+France, he wrote letters of thanks, and an account of all that happened to
+him.</p>
+<p>Poland being now entirely subdued by the valour and fortune of Charles
+XII. and having received a king of his nomination, submitted cheerfully,
+glad to see an end of devastation, as they then flattered themselves; but
+the troubles of that unfortunate kingdom were yet to endure much
+longer.—Augustus, impatient of recovering what he had lost, and the czar
+of Muscovy jealous and envious of the king of Sweden's glory, came pouring
+with mighty armies from Saxony and Russia. Shullenburgh, the general of
+the former, had passed the Oder; and the other, at the head of a numerous
+body, was plundering all that came in his way, and putting to the sword
+every one whom he even suspected of adhering to king Stanislaus: so that
+nothing now was talked of but war, and the means concerted how to put a
+stop to the miseries these two ambitious princes made, not only in that
+country, but all the adjacent parts.</p>
+<p>It was agreed that general Renchild should go to meet Shullenburgh, and
+the two kings drive out the Muscovites; who being divided into several
+parties, Stanislaus went at the head of one army, and the king of Sweden
+led another; and taking different routs, had every day what he called
+skirmishes, but what the vanquished looked upon as terrible battles.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden, before their departure from Warsaw, told Horatio
+that all his officers were gallant men, and it was not his custom to
+displace any one for meer favour to another; he must therefore wait till
+the fate of war, or some other accident, made a vacancy, before he could
+give him a commission, in the mean time, said he, with a great deal of
+sweetness, you must be content to be only my aid-de-camp. On this Horatio
+replied to his majesty, with as much politeness as sincerity, that it was
+the post he wished, tho' dare not presume to ask; for he looked upon the
+honour of being near, and receiving the commands of so excellent a
+monarch, preferable to the highest commission in the army.</p>
+<p>Thus, highly contented with his lot, did he attend the king, thro'
+rivers, lakes, marines, and all the obstacles nature had thrown in the way
+of this conqueror; and whenever they came to any battle, was so swift in
+bearing his commands to the general, and in returning to him in which line
+soever he was, that Poniatosky gave him the name of the Mercury to their
+Jove; nor did he less signalize his valour; he fought by the side of the
+king like one who valued not life, in competition with the praises of his
+master. In an engagement where they took the baggage of Augustus, he did
+extraordinary service; and a colonel then being killed on the spot, the
+king presently cried out, Now here is a regiment for my Horatio. Our young
+warrior thanked him on his knees, but beseeched he might not be removed
+from him, again protesting that he could no were deserve so well, as where
+he was animated by his royal presence. This Charles XII. took very kindly,
+and told him, he should have his desire; but, said he, I must also have
+mine:—I will continue you my aid-de-camp, but you shall accept the
+commission, and the lieutenant colonel shall command the regiment in your
+absence.</p>
+<p>He also allotted him so large a share in the prize taken in this
+battle, that Horatio was already become rich enough to avow his
+pretensions to the daughter of the baron de Palfoy; but, dear as she was
+to him, his love and admiration of the king of Sweden, joined to the
+ambition of desiring still more than he had received, kept him from
+entertaining the least desire of quitting the service he was in.</p>
+<p>In eight or nine weeks did the two kings clear the country round, and
+drove their enemies into the heart of Lithuania. As they were about to
+return, they were met by the welcome news that general Renchild had been
+no less successful, and entirely routed the whole army of Shullenburgh,
+and also that the diet of Ratisbon, fearing the king of Sweden would enter
+Germany, had come to a resolution to declare him an enemy to the empire,
+in case he offered to pass the Oder with his army.</p>
+<p>They could not have taken a more effectual step to bring on what they
+dreaded, than by daring him to it by this menace. He took but little time
+for consideration, before he determined to carry the war into Saxony, and
+drive Augustus from his electorate, as he had done from his kingdom.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner made known his resolution, than the troops began to
+march, and with a chearfulness and alacrity, which shewed they had no will
+but that of their king:—indeed he seemed the soul of this mighty body, of
+which every single man was a member, and actuated only by him.</p>
+<p>It is certain his heart was set on establishing Stanislaus on the
+throne, and he knew no better way of preventing Augustus from molesting
+him, than by calling off all communication between his electorate and
+Poland:—accordingly he bent his course to Saxony, marched thro' Silesia
+and Lusatia, plundered the open country, laid the rich city of Leipsic,
+and other towns, under contribution, and at length encamped at Alranstadt,
+near the plains of Lutsen, whence he sent to the estates of Saxony, to
+give him an estimate of what they could supply, and obliged them to levy
+whatever sums he had occasion for: not that he had the least spark of
+avarice in his nature, but his hatred to Augustus, who had by his
+injustice made him become his enemy, was so great, that it extended to all
+those of his country, so far, as to humble and impoverish the once opulent
+inhabitants, making them not only support his numerous army, but laid on
+them besides many unnecessary imposts, which he divided among his
+soldiers, so that they were all cloathed in gold and silver, and every
+private man had the appearance of a general, the king himself still
+preferring his usual plainness; but he loved, he said, to see the Saxon
+riches upon Swedish backs.</p>
+<p>Horatio had now a second opportunity of writing to France, which he did
+not fail to do, and, as there was no talk of the army decamping for some
+time, let his friends know he hoped to hear from them at Alranstadt.</p>
+<p>Augustus, in the mean time deprived of every thing, and a wanderer in
+that kingdom where he had lately reigned, sent a mean submission to him,
+entreating peace, and that he might have leave to return to his
+electorate. This was granted by the conqueror, on condition he would
+renounce, for ever, all thoughts of re-entering Poland, or giving any
+disturbance to Stanislaus. But as the treaty was going to be signed, the
+czar sent an army of 20,000 men to his relief, who defeated general
+Mayerfield, whom the king had left to guard that kingdom; and the
+dethroned monarch once more entered Warsaw, the capital of Poland, in
+triumph.</p>
+<p>Charles XII. was so exasperated when he received this intelligence,
+that he gave immediate orders to decamp, resolving he should not long
+enjoy the benefit of his breach of faith; but the pusillanimity of
+Augustus prevented him: that prince was afraid the czar should discover
+the peace he had been secretly negotiating, and withdraw his troups; and
+as he had neither any of his own, nor money to assist him, he sent the
+articles demanded of him by the king of Sweden, signed with his own hand,
+and set out to Alranstadt, hoping, by his presence and persuasions, to
+mollify his indignation, and be permitted to enjoy his own Saxony in
+peace.</p>
+<p>What more could the utmost ambition of man require than the king of
+Sweden now received, to see a prince, so lately his equal and inveterate
+enemy, come to solicite favour of him in his camp, almost at his feet;
+but whatever were his sentiments on this occasion he concealed them, and
+tho' he could not but despise such an act of meanness, he treated him with
+the utmost politeness, tho' without making any abatement of the demands he
+had exacted from him. On the contrary, he insisted on his delivering up to
+him general Patkul, ambassador from the czar, who at that time was a
+prisoner in Saxony, being determined to put him to death as a traitor,
+having been born his subject, and now entered into the service of his
+sworn enemy.</p>
+<p>Augustus beseeched him in the most abject manner to relinquish this one
+point, and remonstrated to him that the czar, his present master, would
+look on it as the utmost indignity offered to himself in the person of his
+ambassador: he assured him he hated Patkul, but feared the giving him up
+would be resented by all the princes of Europe. All he could urge on this
+head was to no effect; the king of Sweden was not to be moved from any
+resolution he had once made; and the unfortunate Patkul was sent to
+Alranstadt and chained to a stake for three whole months, and afterwards
+conducted to Casimir, where he was to receive his sentence.</p>
+<p>Horatio, who was an entire stranger to the motive of this behaviour in
+the king, and had never seen any thing before in him that looked like a
+cruel disposition, was one day mentioning his surprize at it to a young
+officer with whom he had contracted a great intimacy, on which he gave him
+the following account:</p>
+<p>This Patkul, said he, is a Livonian born, which, tho' a free country,
+is part of the dominions annexed to the crown of Sweden: Charles XI. began
+to introduce a more absolute form of government than was consistent with
+the humour of that people; his son has been far from receding in that
+point, and Patkul being a person of great consideration among them, stood
+up for their liberties in a manner which our king could not forgive:—he
+ordered him to be seized, but he made his escape, and was proscribed in
+Sweden; on which he entered into the service of king Augustus, and was
+made his general; but on some misunderstanding; between him and the
+chancellor, he quitted Poland and went to Russia, where he got into great
+favour with the czar, was highly promoted, and sent his residentiary
+ambassador in Saxony. Augustus, whose fate it has been to disoblige every
+body, on some pretence clapp'd into prison the representative of his only
+friend, and now, we see, has given him up to death, to satiate the demands
+of his greatest enemy.</p>
+<p>Horatio could not keep himself from falling into a deep musing at the
+recital of this adventure: he thought Patkul worthy of compassion, yet
+found reasons to justify the king's resentment; and as this officer had
+often disburthened himself to him with the greatest freedom, he had no
+reserve toward him, and this led them into a discourse on arbitrary
+power.—Horatio said, that he could not help believing that nature never
+intended millions to be subjected to the despotic will of one person, and
+that a limited government was the most conformable to reason. The officer
+agreed with him in that; except the person who ruled had really more
+perfections than all those he ruled over and if so, said he, and his
+commands are always calculated for the happiness of the subject, they
+cannot be more happy than in an implicite obedience. True, replied
+Horatio, I am confident that such a prince as ours knows how to chuse for
+his people much better than they do for themselves; but how can they be
+certain that his descendants will have the same virtues; and when once an
+absolute power is granted to a good prince, it will be in vain that the
+people will endeavour to wrest it from the hands of a bad one.—Never can
+any point be redeemed from the crown without a vast effusion of blood, and
+the endangering such calamities on the country, that the relief would be
+as bad as the disease. Upon the whole, therefore, I cannot think Patkul in
+the wrong for attempting to maintain the liberty of his country, tho' I do
+for entering into the service of the avowed enemy of his master.</p>
+<p>It is that, I believe, resumed the other, that the king chiefly
+resents: his majesty is too just to condemn a man for maintaining the
+principles he was bred in, however they may disagree with his own; but to
+become his enemy, to enlist himself in the service of those who aim at the
+destruction of his lawful prince, is certainly a treason of the blackest
+dye.</p>
+<p>As they were in this discourse, colonel Poniatosky came in, and hearing
+they were speaking of Patkul,—I have just now, said he, received a letter
+from one of my friends in Saxony concerning that general, which deeply
+affects me, not for his own, but for the sake of a lady, to whom, after a
+long series of disappointments, he was just going to be married, when
+Augustus, against the law of nations, made him a prisoner. I will relate
+the whole adventure to you, continued he; on which the others assuring him
+they should think themselves obliged to him, he went on.</p>
+<p>When he first entered into the service of Augustus, he became
+passionately in love with madam d'Ensilden, a young lady, whose beauty,
+birth, and fortune rendered her worthy the affections of a man of more
+honour than he had testified in his public capacity: her friends at least
+thought so; and chancellor Flemming making his addresses to her at the
+same time, had the advantage in every thing but in her heart: there Patkul
+triumphed in spight of all objections: and tho' king Augustus vouchsafed
+himself to sollicite in behalf of his favourite, her constancy remained
+unshaken as a rock; which so incensed a monarch haughty and imperious in
+his nature, before humbled by our glorious Charles, that he made use of
+his authority, and forbid her to think of marrying any other: to which she
+resolutely answered, that she knew no right princes had to interfere with
+the marriages of private persons; but since his majesty commanded it, she
+would endeavour to obey and live single. This not satisfying the king, he
+hated Patkul from that moment; and the rivals soon after meeting in madam
+d'Ensilden's apartment, some hot words arose between them, which being by
+Flemming reported to his master, he sent, in the moment of his passion, to
+require Patkul to resign his office of general: he did so, but with a
+murmur that was far from abating the royal resentments; and he had then
+ordered him into confinement, but that private intelligence being given
+him, he made his escape before the officers, commissioned for that
+purpose, reached his house. He then went to the czar, who knowing him an
+experienced general, of which at that time he stood greatly in need,
+gladly received him; and it was there he first merited the hate of all
+good men, by countenancing and abetting those ambitious projects his new
+master was then forming against the king of Sweden: but see the fate of
+treason, he persuaded him to enter into an alliance with, Poland and
+Saxony against Sweden, which laid the foundation of this unjust war, and
+for which Augustus has so dearly paid; and being sent Ambassador, in order
+to negotiate these affairs, again renewed those of his love. Augustus, now
+obliged to the czar for the preservation of his dominions, durst not
+openly espouse chancellor Flemming, but no sooner heard that the marriage
+was near being compleated, than he ventured every thing to prevent it;
+and, under a pretence of his own forging, confined Patkul in the castle of
+Konisting, where he lay a considerable time; the czar being too much taken
+up with combating the fortune of our victorious king, to examine into this
+affair, and besides, unwilling to break with Augustus, as things then
+stood. Madam d'Ensilden did all this time whatever could be expected from
+a sincere affection, in order to procure his enlargement; but the interest
+of her friends, at least of those who would be employed in this
+intercession, were infinitely too weak to oppose that of Flemming and the
+king's own inclination, so that he remained a prisoner, without being
+permitted either to write to madam d'Ensilden or see her, till the time
+of his being delivered into our hands. But on hearing he was so, my friend
+informs me her great spirit, which till now had made her support her
+misfortune without discovering to the world any part of the agonies she
+sustained, in an instant quite forsook her: she abandoned herself to
+despair and grief, equally exclaiming against the Czar, Augustus, and
+Charles XII; has ever since shut herself up in her apartment, which she
+has caused to be hung with black, the windows closed, and no light but
+what a small lamp affords, and only adds more horror to the melancholy
+scene: she weeps incessantly, and, as she expects her lover will obtain no
+mercy, declares, she only waits till she hears the sentence of his fate is
+given, to dye, if possible, at the same moment of his execution.</p>
+<p>I must confess, continued Poniatosky, the history of this lady's
+sufferings touch me very much; and tho' I think her lover well worthy of
+the death he will undoubtedly receive, could wish some unexpected chance
+might once more set him free, and in a condition to recompence so tender a
+passion, which Augustus has now no longer any power to oppose.</p>
+<p>Horatio had a heart too tender, and too sensible of the woes of love,
+not to be greatly affected with this passage; and as they all were young,
+and probably had each of them a lady to whom their affections were given,
+could not help sympathizing in the misfortunes of two persons who seemed
+to have fallen into them merely by the sincere attachment they had for
+each other.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XVIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>King Stanislaus quits Alranstadt to appease the troubles in Poland:
+Charles XII. gives laws to the empire: a courier arrives from Paris:
+Horatio receives letters which give him great surprize</i>.</p>
+<p>Augustus being able to obtain no better conditions from the king of
+Sweden, than leave to return to his almost ruined electorate, took leave
+of his conqueror with an almost broken heart.—Intelligence soon after
+arriving that Poland was half demolished by the violence of different
+factions, who, in the absence of both their kings, contended with equal
+fury for the sovereign power, Stanislaus took an affectionate farewell of
+his dear friend and patron, and went to appease the troubles of that
+kingdom, and make himself peaceably acknowledged for what he was, their
+lawful king, not only by election, but by the gift of the conqueror,
+Charles XII. of Sweden. He was attended by 10,000 Swedish horse, and twice
+the number of foot, in order to make good his claim against any of his
+rebellious subjects.</p>
+<p>Charles having now accomplished all he could desire in relation to the
+Polish affairs, began to grow weary of the idle life he led at Alranstadt,
+and was thinking which way he should turn his arms; he had been used ill
+by the czar, who, as has been before observed, plotted his destruction
+while a minor, and began hostilities when he thought him not in a
+condition to defend himself, much less to make any reprisals: his
+resentment therefore against him was no less implacable than it had been
+against Augustus,—But the emperor had also disobliged him. Count Zobor,
+the chamberlain, had taken very indecent and unbecoming liberties with his
+character, in the presence of his own Ambassador at Vienna; and that court
+had given shelter to 1500 Muscovites, who having escaped his arms, fled
+thither for protection. As he was now so near, he therefore thought best
+to call the emperor first to account, and then proceed to attack the czar.</p>
+<p>To this end he sent to demand count Zobor, and the 1500 Muscovites
+should be given into his hands: the timid emperor complied with the first
+and sent his chamberlain to be punished as the king thought fit; but it
+was not in his power to acquiesce with the other; the Roman envoy, then at
+Vienna, having intelligence of it, provided for their escape by different
+routs. The king of Sweden then sent a second mandate, requiring protection
+for all the Lutherans throughout Germany, particularly in Silesia, and
+that they should be restored to all the liberties and privileges
+established by the treaty of Westphalia. The emperor, who would have
+yielded any thing to get the king of Sweden out of his neighbourhood,
+granted even this, disobliging as it was to the pope and his own catholic
+subjects: and having ratified these concessions, the king vouchsafed to
+let his chamberlain return, without any other punishment than
+imprisonment, so long as these affairs remained in agitation.</p>
+<p>Having thus given laws to Germany and terror to the emperor, he
+resolved to turn where he might expect more opposition; and accordingly he
+ordered count Piper to acquaint the officers, that they must now begin to
+think of preparing for a march.</p>
+<p>In the mean time ambassadors from all the courts of Europe were sent to
+his camp, most of them being apprehensive that they should be the next who
+felt the terror of his arms: but those who had nothing of this kind to
+dread, and more really his friends, made use of all the arguments in their
+power to prevail on him to return to Stockholm. France in particular sent
+courier after courier, remonstrating to him that his glory was complete;
+that he had already exceeded Alexander, and should now return covered, as
+he was, with lawrels, and let his subjects enjoy the blessing of his
+presence. The court of St. Germains added their entreaties to that of
+Versailles, but each were equally ineffectual; nor could even the thoughts
+of the beautiful princess Louisa, his betrothed spouse, and whom he was to
+marry at the end of this war, put a stop to the vehemence of his
+impatience to revenge the many injuries he had received from the czar of
+Muscovy.</p>
+<p>These were the sentiments by which this conquering monarch were
+agitated; but Horatio, tho' no less fond of glory, had a softness in his
+nature, which made him languish for the sight of his dear Charlotta, whom
+he had been absent from near two years; and being now blessed with a
+fortune from the plunder of Saxony, which might countenance his
+pretensions to her, passionately longed for an opportunity of returning
+without incurring the censure of cowardice or ingratitude. By these
+couriers he received letters from the baron de la Valiere, and several
+others of his friends, but none from the father of Charlotta; nor did any
+of them make any mention of that lady, tho' he knew the passion he had for
+her was now no secret to any of them.</p>
+<p>He was very much surprized that the baron de Palfoy had not wrote,
+because as he had in a manner promised to correspond with him by desiring
+him to write, he had a right to expect that favour when they came to
+Alranstadt; for till then it was scarce possible, by reason of the army's
+continual and uncertain motions; but he was much more so, that the baron
+de la Valiere had not been so good as to give him some information of an
+affair, of which he could not be insensible his peace so much depended:
+that he did not do it, he therefore presently concluded, was owing to the
+having nothing pleasing to acquaint him with.</p>
+<p>As love is always apprehensive of the worst that can possibly befal, he
+thought now of nothing but her being obliged to give her hand to some
+rival approved by her father:—what avails it, cried he, that fortune has
+raised me to an equality with her, if, by other means, I am deprived of
+her!</p>
+<p>He was beginning to give way to a despair little befitting a soldier,
+when another courier arriving from Versailles with dispatches to the king,
+he also received a packet, in which were three letters. The first he cast
+his eye upon had on it the characters of Charlotta: amazed and transported
+he hastily broke the seal, and found it contained these lines:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To Colonel</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"I have the permission of my father to pursue<br/>
+my inclinations, in giving you this testimony<br/>
+how sincerely I congratulate your good fortune;<br/>
+tho' I ought not to call it by that name, since I<br/>
+find every-body allows your rewards have not<br/>
+exceeded your merits; but as neither has been<br/>
+found deficient either for your ambition or the<br/>
+satisfaction of your friends, all who are truly such<br/>
+think you ought to be content, and run no future<br/>
+hazards.—Be assured you have many well-wishers<br/>
+here, among the number of whom you<br/>
+will be guilty of great injustice not to place<br/>
+<br/>
+CHARLOTTA DE PALFOY."</p>
+<p>How well were all the late anxieties he had endured attoned for by this
+billet; it was short indeed, and wrote with a more distant air than he
+might have expected, had the dear authoress been at liberty to pursue the
+dictates of her heart; but as it informed him it was permitted by her
+father, and was doubtless under his inspection, the knowledge that he had
+authorized her to write at all, was more flattering to his hopes of
+happiness than all she could have said without that Sanction. After having
+indulged the raptures this condescention excited, he proceeded to the
+rest, and found the next he opened was from the baron de Palfoy, who
+expressed himself to him in these terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To Colonel</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+"I think myself obliged to you for so much<br/>
+exceeding the character I gave you; but I<br/>
+value myself on knowing mankind, and am glad<br/>
+to find I was not deceived in you, when I expected<br/>
+you to do more than I durst venture on<br/>
+my own opinion to assure the count. He tells me,<br/>
+in a letter I received from him the last courier,<br/>
+that the victorious Charles XII. himself cannot<br/>
+behave with greater bravery in the time of action,<br/>
+nor more moderation after it is over.—This<br/>
+is a great praise, indeed, from such a man<br/>
+as he; and I acquaint you with it not to make<br/>
+you vain, for that would blemish the lustre of<br/>
+your other good qualities, but that you may<br/>
+know how to make proper acknowledgments to<br/>
+that minister."<br/>
+<br/>
+"Our court, I know, makes pressing influences<br/>
+to the king of Sweden not to carry on the way<br/>
+any farther: I wish they may succeed, or if they<br/>
+should not, that you might be able to find some<br/>
+opportunity of quitting the service for reasons<br/>
+which you will see in a letter that accompanies<br/>
+this, and to which nothing can be added to convince<br/>
+you what part you ought to take.—I<br/>
+shall therefore say no more than that I am, with<br/>
+a very tender regard,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+PALFOY"</p>
+<p>Rejoiced as he was at receiving a letter from the father of his
+mistress, wrote in a manner which he might look upon as a kind of
+confirmation he no longer would be refractory to his wishes, the latter
+part of it contained an enigma he could by no means comprehend.—It seemed
+impossible to him there could be any reasons prevalent enough to make him
+quit, with honour, a prince who had so liberally rewarded his service; but
+hoping a further explanation, he lost not any time in conjectures; and
+tearing open the other letter without giving himself time to examine the
+hand in which it was directed, found, to his inexpressible astonishment,
+the name of Dorilaus subscribed. It was indeed wrote by that gentleman,
+and contained at follows:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Dear Horatio</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+"Accidents, which at our parting neither of<br/>
+us could foresee, have doubtless long since<br/>
+made you cease to hope any continuance of that<br/>
+kindness my former behaviour seemed to promise;<br/>
+but never, perhaps did heaven deal its<br/>
+blessings with a more mysterious hand than it<br/>
+has done to you.—That seeming neglect in<br/>
+me, at a time when you were a prisoner among<br/>
+strangers, and had most need of my assistance,<br/>
+had the appearance of the greatest misfortune<br/>
+could befall you; yet has it been productive of<br/>
+the greatest good, and laid the foundation of a<br/>
+happiness which cannot be but lasting.—I reserve<br/>
+the explanation of this riddle till you arrive<br/>
+at Paris, where I now am, and intend to<br/>
+continue my whole life.—That I impatiently<br/>
+desire to see you, ought to be a sufficient inducement<br/>
+for you to return with as much expedition<br/>
+as possible:—I will therefore make this<br/>
+experiment of that affection, I might add duty,<br/>
+you owe me, and only give you leave to guess<br/>
+what recompence this proof of your obedience<br/>
+will entitle you to.—If therefore the king of<br/>
+Sweden is resolute to extend his conquests, entreat<br/>
+his permission to resign: I know the obligations<br/>
+you have to that excellent prince; but I<br/>
+know also you have others to me which cannot<br/>
+be dispensed with:—besides, his majesty's affairs<br/>
+cannot suffer by the loss of one man: yours<br/>
+will be in danger, if not totally ruined, by your<br/>
+continuance with him, and myself deprived at<br/>
+the same time of the only remaining comfort of<br/>
+my days.—Your sister left me soon after you<br/>
+did:—she went to Aix la Chapelle, since<br/>
+which I have never been able to hear any thing<br/>
+of her.—Let me not lose you both; if you<br/>
+have any regard for your own interest, or the<br/>
+peace of him whom you have ever found a father<br/>
+in his care and affection, and whom you will<br/>
+now find so more than you can possibly expect.<br/>
+<br/>
+DORILAUS."</p>
+<p>Impossible is it to conceive, without being in the very circumstances
+Horatio was, what a strange variety of mingled passions agitated his
+breast on having to read, and considered these letters:—to find such
+unhoped condescension from the baron de Palfoy and that Dorilaus was still
+living, and had the same, if not more tender inclinations for him than
+ever, the latter of which he had long since ceased to hope, was sufficient
+to have overwhelmed even the most phlegmatic person with an excess of
+joy:—but then the dark expressions in both these letters put his brain on
+the rack.—The baron had seemed to refer to an explanation of what he
+darkly hinted at in the letter of Dorilaus, but that he found rather more
+obsolete: he could imagine nothing farther than that Dorilaus having
+resolved to make him his heir, as he remembered some people said before he
+left England, on the knowledge of that intelligence the baron de Palfoy
+had consented to his marriage with mademoiselle Charlotta, and this, her
+being permitted to write to him confirmed.—This indeed was the supreme
+aim of his desires; and this it was that made him quit St. Germains, in
+hope of raising himself to a condition which might enable her to own her
+affection to him without a blush: but transporting as this idea was, it
+was mingled with disquiet, to reflect on the terms which both the Baron
+and Dorilaus seemed to insist on for the accomplishment of his wishes,
+tho' he impatiently longed to see Dorilaus after so long an absence.—Tho'
+in the possession of Charlotta all his hopes were centered, yet to leave a
+prince who had so highly favoured him, and under whose banners he had
+gained so much consideration, was a piece of ingratitude, which it was
+worse than death for him to be guilty of.—No! said he, it would be to
+render me unworthy of all the blessings they make me hope, should I
+purchase them on such conditions!—How can they demand them of me!—The
+Baron, Charlotta, and Dorilaus, have all of them the highest notions of
+honour, generosity and gratitude, and can they approve that in me, which I
+am certain they would not be guilty of themselves!—Sure it is but to try
+me, they seem to exact what they are sensible I cannot yield to, without
+the breach of every thing that can entitle me to esteem or love!</p>
+<p>Thus did he argue within himself for one moment; the next, other
+reasons, directly opposite to these, presented themselves.—Dorilaus,
+cried he, demands all my obedience;—all my gratitude:—without protection
+I had been an outcast in the world!—Whatever honours, whatever happiness
+I enjoy, is it not to him I owe them! Can I refuse then to comply with
+commands, which, he says, are necessary to his peace!—Besides, was it not
+Charlotta that inspired this ardor in me for great actions! Was not the
+possession of that charming maid, the sole end I proposed to myself in all
+I have undertaken! and shall I, by refusing her request, madly run the
+risque of losing her for ever!—Does not she wish, her father persuade,
+and Dorilaus enjoin me to return!—Does not love, friendship, duty call me
+to partake the joys that each affords!—And shall I refuse the tender
+invitation!—No! the world cannot condemn me for following motives such as
+these; and even the royal Charles himself is too generous not to acquit me
+of ingratitude or cowardice.</p>
+<p>It must indeed be confessed he had potent inducements for his return to
+Paris, to combat against those of continuing in the king of Sweden's
+service; and both by turns appeared so prevalent, that it is uncertain
+which would have got the better, had not an accident happened, which
+unhappily determined him in favour of the latter.</p>
+<p>Colonel Poniatosky, who had attended Stanislaus into Poland, now the
+disturbances of that kingdom were quieted, on hearing the king of Sweden
+was on some new expedition, obtained leave of Stanislaus to return to the
+camp, and implored his majesty's permission to be one of those who should
+partake the glorious toils he was now re-entering into. To which he
+replied, that he should be glad to have him near his person, but feared he
+would be wanted in Poland. No, may it please your majesty, resumed
+Poniatosky, there seems to be no longer any business in that kingdom for a
+soldier:—all seem ready to obey the royal Stanislaus out of affection to
+his person, and admiration of those virtues they are now perfectly
+convinced of; nor is Augustus in a condition to violate the treaty of
+resignation:—refuse me not therefore I beseech your majesty, continued
+he, falling upon both his knees, what I look on as my greatest happiness,
+as it is my greatest glory.</p>
+<p>The king seemed very well pleased at the emphasis with which he
+expressed himself; and having raised him from the posture he was in, be it
+so, cried he, henceforward we will be inseparable.</p>
+<p>Horatio was charmed with this testimony of love and zeal in a person,
+who had doubtless friends and kindred who would have been glad he had less
+attachment to a service so full of dangers as that of the king of Sweden,
+and somewhat ashamed he had ever entertained a thought of quitting it,
+resolved, as he had been more obliged, not to shew less gratitude than
+Poniatosky. Therefore, without any further deliberation, retired to his
+quarters, and prepared the following answers to the letters had been
+brought him. As all things in a lover's heart yields to the darling
+object, the first he wrote was to his mistress.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To mademoiseile</i> DE PALFOY.<br/>
+<br/>
+"With what transports I received yours,<br/>
+adorable Charlotta, I am little able to<br/>
+express!—To find I am not forgotten!—That<br/>
+what I have done is approved by her for<br/>
+whom alone I live, and whose praise alone can<br/>
+make me vain, so swallowed up all other considerations,<br/>
+that it had almost made me quit<br/>
+Alranstadt that moment, and fly to pour beneath<br/>
+your feet my gratitude and joy!—But<br/>
+glory, tyrannic glory, would not suffer me to<br/>
+obey the soft impulse, nor re-enjoy that blessing<br/>
+till conscious I deserved it better!—My friends<br/>
+over-rate my services; and tho' that partial indulgence<br/>
+is the ultimate of my ambition, I would<br/>
+dare not abuse what they are so good to offer."<br/>
+<br/>
+"To feast my long, long famished sight with<br/>
+gazing once more on your charms, I would<br/>
+forgo every thing but the hope of rendering myself<br/>
+one day more worthy of it!—Too dear I<br/>
+prize the good wishes you vouchsafe to have for<br/>
+me, not to attempt every thing in my power to<br/>
+prevent the disappointment of them: the little<br/>
+I have yet done, alas! serves but to prove how<br/>
+much the man, who has in view rendering himself<br/>
+acceptable to the divine Charlotta, dares<br/>
+to do, when dangers worthy of his courage<br/>
+present themselves.—A small time may, perhaps,<br/>
+afford me an opportunity:—yet did you<br/>
+know how dear this self-denial costs me, you<br/>
+would confess it the greatest proof of affection<br/>
+ever man gave:—permit me therefore to gratify<br/>
+an ambition which has no other aim than a<br/>
+justification of the favours I receive:—continue<br/>
+to look with a favourable eye on my endeavours,<br/>
+and they cannot then fail of such success,<br/>
+as may give me a claim to the glorious.<br/>
+title of my most adored and loved Charlotta's.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Everlasting Slave</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>To her father he wrote in the following manner:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the baron</i> DE PALFOY,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>My Lord</i>;<br/>
+<br/>
+"The favours your goodness confers upon<br/>
+me are such as can be equalled by but one<br/>
+thing in the world, and that is my just and<br/>
+grateful sense of them.—Charming would be<br/>
+the toils of war, did all employed in them meet<br/>
+a recompence like mine!—Is there a man, so<br/>
+mean, so poor in spirit, that praises such as I receive<br/>
+might not animate to actions worthy of<br/>
+them!—What acknowledgments can I make<br/>
+the count suitable to the immense obligations I<br/>
+owe him, for inspiring your lordship with sentiments,<br/>
+which, tho' the supreme wish of my<br/>
+aspiring soul, I never durst allow myself to<br/>
+hope; and which afford a prospect of future<br/>
+accumulated blessings, such as I could scarce<br/>
+flatter myself with being real, were not the transporting<br/>
+idea in some measure confirmed to me,<br/>
+by your having given a sanction to a correspondence<br/>
+I so lately despaired of ever obtaining!—Blessed<br/>
+change!—Extatic condescensions!—Fortune<br/>
+has done all she can for me, and anticipated<br/>
+all the good that, after a long train of<br/>
+services and approved fidelity, I scarce should<br/>
+have presumed to hope!—Oh my lord! I have<br/>
+no words to thank you as I ought! It is deeds<br/>
+alone, and rendering myself worthy of your<br/>
+indulgence, that must preserve your good opinion,<br/>
+and keep you from repenting having overwhelmed<br/>
+me with this profusion of happiness!—Yet<br/>
+how joyfully could I now pursue the<br/>
+rout to Paris, and content myself with owing<br/>
+every thing merely to your goodness, were I<br/>
+not with-held by all the considerations that<br/>
+ought to have weight with a man of honour!—My<br/>
+royal general is inflexible to the persuasions<br/>
+of almost all the courts in Christendom,<br/>
+and hurried by his thirst of fame, or some other<br/>
+more latent motive, has given orders to prepare<br/>
+for a march, where, or against whom, is yet a<br/>
+secret to the army; but by the preparations for<br/>
+it, we believe they are not short journeys we<br/>
+are to take.—Should I now quit a service<br/>
+where I have been promoted so much beyond<br/>
+my merit, what, my lord, but cowardice or ingratitude<br/>
+could be imputed to me as the motive!<br/>
+—Not all my reasons, powerful as they are,<br/>
+would have any weight with a prince, who is<br/>
+deaf to every thing but the calls of glory; and<br/>
+I must return loaden with his displeasure, and<br/>
+the reproaches of all I leave behind!—Now<br/>
+to return is certain infamy!—To go, is in pursuit<br/>
+of honour!—Your lordship will not therefore<br/>
+be surprized I make choice of the latter,<br/>
+since no hazard can be equal to that of forfeiting<br/>
+the little reputation I have acquired, and<br/>
+which alone can render me worthy any part of<br/>
+the favours I have received.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>I am</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>With the extremest respect and submission</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your lordship's<br/>
+<br/>
+Eternally devoted servant,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>The last and most difficult task he had to go thro', was the refusal he
+ must give to Dorilaus, who had laid his commands on him in such express
+ terms; and it was not without a good deal of blotting, altering, and
+ realtering, he at length formed an epistle to him in these terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To my more than father, my only patron,<br/>
+protector and benefactor, the most worthy<br/>
+DORILAUS.</i><br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Most dear and ever honoured Sir,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+"To hear you are living, and still remember<br/>
+me with kindness, affords too great a<br/>
+transport to suffer me to throw away any thought<br/>
+either on the motives of your long silence,<br/>
+or that happiness, which you tell me, I may<br/>
+expect has been the produce of it:—it is<br/>
+sufficient for me to know I am still blessed in<br/>
+the favor of the most excellent person that<br/>
+ever lived, and am not in the least anxious for<br/>
+an explanation of any farther good.<br/>
+<br/>
+To tell you with how much ardency I long<br/>
+to throw myself at your feet, to relate to you<br/>
+all the various accidents that have befallen me<br/>
+since first you condescended to put me in the<br/>
+paths of glory, and to pour out my soul before<br/>
+you with thanksgiving, would be as impossible<br/>
+as it is for me at present to enjoy that blessing!—The<br/>
+king's affairs, it is true, would suffer<br/>
+nothing by my absence; but, sir, what would<br/>
+the world say of me, if, after a whole year of<br/>
+inactivity and idleness, I flew, on the first appearance<br/>
+of danger, and forsook a prince, by<br/>
+whom I have been so highly favoured?—Instead<br/>
+of the character I have always been ambitious<br/>
+of attaining, should I not be branded with<br/>
+everlasting infamy!—Put not therefore, I beseech<br/>
+you, to so severe a test that love and duty,<br/>
+to which you cannot have a greater claim than<br/>
+I a readiness to pay?—Did you command my<br/>
+life, it is yours:—I owe it to you, and with it<br/>
+all that can render it agreeable; but, sir, my<br/>
+honour, my reputation, must survive when I am<br/>
+no more; it was the first, and will be the last<br/>
+bent of my desires. No perils can come in any<br/>
+degree of competition with those of being deprived<br/>
+of that, nor any indulgencies of fortune<br/>
+compensate for the loss of it:—pardon then<br/>
+this enforced disobedience, and believe it is the<br/>
+only thing in which I could be guilty of it.—<br/>
+I very much lament my sister's absence, as I<br/>
+find by yours she went without your permission:<br/>
+time and reflection will doubtless bring her to a<br/>
+more just sense of what she, as well as myself,<br/>
+ought to have of your goodness to us, and make<br/>
+her return full of sincere contrition for having<br/>
+offended you. I should implore your favourable<br/>
+opinion of her actions in the mean time,<br/>
+were not all the interest I have in you too little<br/>
+to apologize for my own behaviour.—All, sir,<br/>
+I dare to implore is pardon for myself, and that<br/>
+you will be assured no son, no dependant whatever,<br/>
+would more rejoice in an opportunity of<br/>
+testifying his duty, affection, gratitude and submission,<br/>
+than him who is now constrained by<br/>
+ties, which I flatter myself you will not hereafter<br/>
+disapprove, to swerve in some measure<br/>
+from them, and whose soul and all the faculties<br/>
+of it are<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Entirely devoted to you</i>.<br/>
+<br/>
+HORATIO."</p>
+<p>These dispatches being sent away, he became more composed, and set his
+whole mind on his departure, and taking leave of those friends and
+acquaintance he had contracted at Leipsic and Alranstadt; the time of the
+army marching being fixed in a few days, tho' what rout they were to take
+none, except count Piper, general Renchild, count Hoorn, and some few
+others of the cabinet council, were made privy to.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XIX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The king of Sweden leaves Saxony, marches into Lithuania, meets with
+an instance of Russian brutality, drives the czar out of Grodno, and
+pursues him to the Borysthenes. Horatio, with others, is taken prisoner by
+the Russians, and carried to Petersburg, where they suffer the extremest
+miseries</i>.</p>
+<p>The word at length being given, the tents were struck, the trumpets
+sounded, and the whole army was immediately in motion. Never was a more
+gay and glorious fight; the splendor of their arms, and the richness of
+their habits blazed against the sun; but what was yet more pleasing, and
+spread greater terror among their enemies, was the chearfulness that sat
+on every face, and shewed they followed with the utmost alacrity their
+beloved and victorious monarch.</p>
+<p>It was in the latter end of September, a season extremely cold in those
+parts, that they began their march but hardships were natural to the king
+of Sweden's troops; and as they perceived they were going into Lithuania,
+a place where their valour had been so well proved against the invading
+Muscovites, their cheeks glowed with a fresher red on the remembrance of
+their former victories. They passed near Dresden, the capital of the
+electorate of Saxony, and made Augustus tremble in his palace, tho' the
+word of the king, which ever was inviolable, had been given that he should
+enjoy those dominions in peace.</p>
+<p>During the course of this, the czar had fallen upon the frontiers of
+Poland above twenty times, not like a general, desiring to come to a
+decisive battle, but like a robber, plundering, ravaging, and destroying
+the defenceless country people, and immediately flying on the approach of
+any troops either of Charles XII or king Stanislaus. The Swedes in their
+march met several parties sent on these expeditions, but who retired on
+sight of the army into woods, and were most of them either killed or taken
+prisoners by detachments sent in pursuit of them by the king of Sweden.</p>
+<p>In their march towards Grodno they found the remains of an encampment,
+several pieces of cannon and ammunition of all forts, but not one creature
+to guard it, the troops to whom it belonged having all dispersed and hid
+themselves. On examining the tents, they were surprized with the sight of
+a very beautiful woman, who was lying on the ground in one of them, with
+three others, who seemed endeavouring to comfort her, and, by the respect
+they paid her, that they were her dependents; but had all of them their
+garments torn and bloody, their hair hanging in strange disorder about
+their ears, their flesh discoloured with bruises and other marks of
+violence, and, as well as their disconsolate superior, were spectacles of
+the utmost distress.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden himself, followed by general Hoorn, Poniatolky,
+Horatio, and several others, who hardly ever lost sight of him, came into
+this tent, and, being touched with so moving a scene, demanded the
+Occasion; on which the prostrate lady being told who it was that spoke,
+started suddenly up, and throwing herself at his feet:—Oh king! cried she
+in the German language, as famous for justice as for being invincible in
+war, revenge the cause of helpless innocence and virtue!—Oh let the
+murderous brutal Russians find heaven's vindictive arm in you its great
+vicegerent.—She was able to utter no more: the inward agonies she
+sustained, on being about to relate the story of her wrongs, became too
+violent for speech, and she sunk motionless on the earth. Two of the
+women, assisted by some Swedes, carried her out of the tent, as thinking
+the open air most proper to revive her; and she who remained, satisfied
+the king's curiosity in these words:</p>
+<p>May it please your majesty, said she, my mistress, that afflicted lady
+who just now implored your royal pity, is of the noble family of the
+Casselburgh, in Saxony, only daughter to the present count: her person,
+before these heavy misfortunes fell upon her, was deservedly reputed one
+of the most beautiful that graced the court of Dresden: her birth, her
+youth, her charms, and the great fortune it was expected she would be
+mistress of, attracted a great number of persons who addressed her for
+marriage: her own inclinations, as well as the count her father's
+commands, disposed of her to Emmermusky, a Polish nobleman; and she had
+been scarce one month a bride, before they unhappily took this journey to
+visit my lord's mother who lives at Travenstadt.—In our way we met a
+party of straggling Muscovites, who, notwithstanding the strict league
+between our elector and the czar, and the knowledge they had by our
+passports that we were Saxons, stripped us of every thing, killed all our
+men-servants and having given my lord several wounds, left him for dead
+upon the place, then dragged us miserable women to the camp.—My lady, in
+the midst of faintings, and when she was incapable even of flying to death
+for refuse, was brutally ravished, and we her wretched attendants suffered
+the same abuse.—Shame will not let me, continued she, blushing and
+weeping, acquaint your majesty with the shocking and repeated violations
+we were compelled to bear!—the wretches casting lots who first should
+gratify his monstrous desires!—We were all bound to trees, and without
+any means of opposition but our shrieks and cries to unrelenting
+heaven!—My lord having a little recovered himself, had crawled, as well
+as his wounds would give him leave, after us, and arrived even while the
+horrid scene was acting: rage giving him new strength and spirits; he
+snatched a sword that lay upon the earth, and sent to perdition the
+villain who was about to add to the dishonour which had been, alas! but
+too much completed by others. The death of their companion incensing the
+accursed Muscovites, they turned upon him, and in a moment laid him dead
+just at the feet of his ruined and almost expiring wife! After having
+satiated their wicked will, they left us, bound as we were, where we
+continued the remainder of the day and whole night, and had doubtless
+perished thro' hunger and extreme cold, if a second party had not passed
+that way, who having been out on a maroding, were then returning to the
+camp.—Being actuated by somewhat more compassion than the former, one of
+the officers made us be untied, and having heard our story, blamed the
+cruelty with which we had been treated, and brought us to his tent, the
+same we now are in, and ordered something should be given for our
+refreshment; but my lady has continued obstinate to dye, and to that end
+has refused all subsistence. This, oh invincible monarch! is the sad
+history of our misfortunes:—misfortunes, which, alas! can never be
+retrieved, nor admit any consolation but in the hope of vengeance!</p>
+<p>Here a torrent of tears closed the sad narration; and the king cried
+out, turning as he spoke to us that followed him,—It is the cause of
+heaven and earth, my friends, said he, to punish these barbarians, and
+shew them that there is a God; for sure at present they are ignorant of
+it!</p>
+<p>The generous monarch after this gave orders that these afflicted and
+abused woman should be escorted to a place of safety, and for that purpose
+halted for the space of two days, then proceeded towards Grodno with such
+expedition, that after-ages will look upon it as incredible that so large
+an army, and also encumbered with a great quantity of baggage, could have
+marched in the time they did.</p>
+<p>But the king of Sweden was on fire to encounter in person the czar of
+Muscovy, who, with about 2000 men, was then in that city: so great was his
+impatience, that he galloped before his troops, not above 600 of those
+best mounted being able to keep pace with him, till he came in sight of
+the south gate, which gave him entrance without any opposition, while the
+czar and his forces made their escape out at the north gate, not doubting
+but the king of Sweden's whole army were come up with him.</p>
+<p>He was afterward so much vexed and ashamed to think he had quitted the
+town to no more than 600 of the enemy, that, to retrieve a mistake which
+he feared might be looked upon as cowardice, being informed the body, of
+the army was near five leagues off, he sent a party of 1500 horse in order
+to surprize the king and his few guards. The Muscovites entered by night;
+but the alarm being given, the fortune which still had waited on the
+Swedish armies, immediately put them all to the rout; and the army soon
+after arriving, the conqueror lost no time, but pursued those that
+remained alive into the forest of Mensky, on the other side of which the
+czar had then entrenched himself, and had made the general rendezvous of
+the Russian army, which was continually divided into parties; and
+sometimes falling on the Swedes in the rear, and sometimes in the flank,
+very much annoyed them in their march: these brave men had also other
+difficulties to encounter with; the forest was so extremely thick, that
+the infantry were obliged to fell down trees every moment, during the
+whole time of their passage, to make way for the baggage and troops.</p>
+<p>Their industry and vigour surmounting all these obstacles, they once
+more found themselves in an open country, but on the banks of a river, on
+the opposite side of which were 20,000 Muscovites placed to oppose their
+crossing. The king made no delay, but quitting his horse, threw himself
+into the river, and was instantly followed by all the foot, while the
+troops under the command of general Renchild and Hoorn, galloped round
+thro' the morrass in which that river ended, and both together charged the
+enemy, who, after some faint shew of resistance, fled with the utmost
+precipitation. The whole army being now joined marched on toward the
+Boristhenes, but with fatigues which are impossible to be described:
+Horatio kept still close to the king, and whether he fought or marched,
+was on foot or on horsback, was always in his fight ready to bear his
+commands to the generals, or assist him in the time of danger. More than
+once had the conqueror been indebted to this young warrior, for turning
+the point of the destructive sword from giving him the same death he was
+dealing about to others; yet in all the dangers he had been in never had
+he received one wound, and this often made the king say, who was a firm
+believer in predestination, that heaven designed him for a soldier: his
+fortune, his valour, his activity, added to his obliging and modest
+behaviour, indeed rendered him so dear to his royal master, that there
+were very few, if any, to whom he gave greater marks of his favour. And
+had Dorilaus, or even Charlotta herself, all tender as she was, and
+trembling for the hazards she knew he had been exposed to, seen him thus
+caressed and honoured by the most glorious prince and greatest hero in the
+world, they could scarce have wished him to quit the post he was in, much
+less persuaded him to do it.</p>
+<p>He hitherto indeed had experienced only the happiness of a martial
+life, for the fatigues, hardships, and dangers of it he as little regarded
+as the intrepid and indefatigable prince he served; but now arrived the
+time which was to inflict on him the worst miseries of it, and make him
+almost curse a vocation he had been in his soul so much attached to.</p>
+<p>The king of Sweden, with his usual success having passed the
+Boristhenes, encountered a party of 10,000 Muscovites and 6000 Calmuck
+Tartars; but they gave way on the first onset and fled into a wood, where
+the king, following the dictates of his great courage more than prudence,
+pursuing them, fell into an ambuscade, which, throwing themselves between
+him and three regiments of horse that were with him, hem'd him in, and now
+began a very unequal fight.—Many of the gallant Swedes were cut to
+pieces, and the Muscovites made quite up to his majesty:—two aid-de-camps
+were killed within his presence, his own horse was shot under him, and as
+an equerry was presenting him with another, both horse and man was struck
+dead in the same moment.—Horatio immediately alighted in order to mount
+the king, who now on foot behaved with incredible valour, in that action
+was surrounded and taken prisoner, as were several others that had fought
+near his person. He had the satisfaction, however, while they were
+disarming and tying his hands, to see colonel Dardoff with his regiment
+force thro' the Calmucks, and arrive timely enough to disengage the king,
+after which the army recovering its rank, and pouring in upon the enemy,
+he was not without hopes of regaining his liberty; but he was sat upon a
+horse and bound fast to the saddle, and compelled, with the others that
+were taken with him, to accompany the Muscovites in their flight, so was
+ignorant in what manner this re-encounter ended. Soon after repairing to
+the czar's quarters, these unfortunate officers of the king of Sweden
+were, with some others who had before become their prize, sent under a
+strong guard to Petersburgh, and thrown altogether into a miserable
+dungeon.</p>
+<p>It would be impossible to describe the horrors of this place:—light
+there was, but it was only so much as just served to shew to each of these
+unhappy sufferers the common calamity of them all.—The roof was arched
+indeed, but so low, that the shortest among them could scarce stand
+upright:—no kind of furniture, not even straw to cover the damp earthen
+floor, which served them for a seat by day and bed at night. Inured as
+they had been to hardships, the noisomeness of this dreadful vault killed
+many of them, and among the rest a young Swedish officer named
+Gullinstern, one with whom Horatio had contracted a very intimate
+friendship, and who, for his many excellent qualities, had been so dear to
+the king, that seeing him one day greatly wounded, and in danger of being
+taker, prisoner, that generous prince obliged him to mount on his own
+horse, and fought on foot himself till another could be brought.</p>
+<p>The light of this gentleman expiring in his arms, filled Horatio with
+so poignant an anguish, that he wanted but little of following him; and,
+indeed, had it not been for the sanguine hopes that the king would in a
+short time complete the ruin of the czar, and not only restore them
+liberty, but also add vengeance to it for the ill treatment they had found
+in his dominions, few, if any of them, had been able to support the
+miseries inflicted on them by these inhuman wretches, who, not content
+with burying them in a manner alive, for the dungeon they were in was deep
+underground, and allowing them no other food than bread and water once in
+four and twenty hours, made savage sport at their condition, ridiculed the
+conquests of their king, and spoke in the most opprobrious terms of his
+royal person, which, when some of them were unable to restrain themselves
+from answering in a manner befitting their duty and love of justice, they
+were silenced by the most cruel stripes.</p>
+<p>Thus were the officers of the king of Sweden, the meanest of whom were
+fit to be generals in any other army, subjected to the servile taunts, and
+insolent behaviour of wretches undeserving to be ranked among the human
+species.</p>
+<p>A very little time had doubtless made them all find graves among these
+barbarians; scarce a day passed over without their company decreasing by
+two or three, who were no sooner dead than dragged out by the heels, and
+thrown like dogs into a pit without the least funeral rites. But
+providence at length thought fit to send them a relief by means they least
+expected.</p>
+<p>In one of the incursions made by the Muscovites into Poland, a very
+beautiful lady, whose father had been killed in asserting the cause of
+Stanislaus, was made prisoner: prince Menzikoff, who commanded these
+batallions, saw her, and became enamoured of her charms: she was destitute
+of all friends, and in the conqueror's power, so thought it best to yield
+what otherwise she found him determined to seize: in fine, she was his
+mistress; and her ready compliance with his desires, together with the
+love she either had or feigned to have for him, afterward gained her an
+absolute ascendant over him. Every one knows the interest he had with the
+czar; and he so far exerted it, as to get this fair favourite lodged in
+the palace, where she was served with the same state and respect as if she
+had been his wife.</p>
+<p>This lady, whose name was Edella, happened to be walking with some of
+her attendants near where these unfortunate gentlemen were buried, at a
+time when three of them were dragged to their wretched sepulchre, was
+touched with compassion to see any thing that had a human shape thus
+coarsely treated, tho' after death, and had the curiosity to order one of
+her people to enquire who those persons were, and what they had done,
+which hindered them from being allowed a christian burial.</p>
+<p>She was no sooner informed that they were Swedish prisoners, than her
+soul shuddered at the thoughts of the Russian barbarity; and not doubting
+but their usage during life had been of a piece with that after their
+death, she resolved, if possible, to procure some abatement of the
+miseries of those who yet survived.</p>
+<p>To this end she made it her business to examine what number of
+prisoners had been brought, of what condition they were, and where lodged;
+and being well acquainted with all she wanted to know, went to the
+governor of Petersburg, and so well represented how dishonourable it was
+to the czar, and how opposite to the law of nations, to treat prisoners of
+war in a worse manner than they would do condemned felons, that he knowing
+the power of prince Menzikoff, and fearing to disoblige one so dear to him
+by a refusal, consented they should be removed into an upper part of the
+prison where they would have more air, and also that they should have an
+allowance of meat every day.</p>
+<p>As the governor was a true Muscovite in his nature and had an
+implacable hatred to the king of Sweden and all that belonged to him, this
+was gaining a great deal; but it was not enough to satisfy the charitable
+disposition of Edella; after their removal, she went in person to visit
+those of them whom she heard were gentlemen, and finding them covered only
+with rags, which some of the soldiers had put on them after having
+stripped them of their own rich habits, she ordered others lined with furs
+to be made for them, to defend them from the coldness of the season; and
+not content to retrench a great part of her own table, sold several fine
+jewels, and other trinkets the prince had bestowed on her, to supply them
+with wine, and whatever necessaries she supposed them to be accustomed to.
+That she might be certain those entrusted by her did not abuse her good
+intentions, she went often to the prison herself to see how they were
+served, and would sometimes enter into discourse with them concerning the
+battles they had been in, the settlement of Stanislaus, and many other
+things relating to the Polish affairs. The gallant and courtly manner in
+which Horatio expressed himself on every occasion, made her take a
+particular pleasure in hearing him speak: that rough blunt behaviour to
+which she had been accustomed since her being brought a captive into
+Muscovy, gave double charms to the politeness with which she found herself
+entertained by our young warrior; his blooming years, and the gracefulness
+of his person, contributed not a little also towards rendering every thing
+he said more agreeable. Her liking of him grew by degrees into a
+friendship, no less tender than that one feels for very near relations,
+and who have never done any thing to disoblige us, are more endeared by
+being under undeserved calamity: but as the inclination she had for him
+was perfectly innocent, and no ways prejudicial to the prince who was in
+possession of her person, she made no secret of it either to himself or
+those she conversed with, and was always talking of the wit, delicacy, and
+handsomeness of one of those prisoners, whom it was well known were
+pensioners to her bounty. But how dangerous is it to be too open before
+persons who, void of all true generosity, or the lead principle of honour
+themselves, never fail to put the worst construction on the actions of
+others. Edella was very near being undone by her sincerity in
+acknowledging the distinction she paid to merit, or the compassion she
+felt for misfortunes, in a country where humanity to enemies is looked
+upon as a crime, friendship to those of the same party altogether unknown,
+and even common civility never practised but for the gratification of
+self-interest, or some favourite passion.</p>
+<p>This beautiful Polander however being treated by the Muscovites, on
+account of the influence she had over the prince Menzikoff, with as much
+complaisance as it was in their power to shew, imagined their disposition
+less savage than it was in reality; and when she testified the pity she
+had for those unhappy gentlemen, it was with design to excite it in
+others, and engage them to join with her in petitioning the czar, at his
+return, for their enlargement, there being no cartel or exchange of
+prisoners subsisting between him and the king of Sweden.</p>
+<p>Among the number she hoped to gain to her party was Mattakesa, the
+relique of a general who had been in great favour with his prince. This
+lady, who could speak French, having learned it of a recusant that took
+shelter in Russia, consented to go with her one day to the prison, and no
+sooner saw Horatio, than, unfortunately for him, Edella, and herself, she
+became charmed with him: as she was of the number of those who think
+nothing a crime that suits their own inclination, she took not the least
+pains to subdue the growing passion, but rather indulged it, in order to
+receive the highest degree of pleasure in the gratification. She doubted
+not but Edella was her rival, and that it was for his sake alone she had
+been so beneficent to his fellow-sufferers: to supplant her, therefore,
+was the first step she had to take, and she resolved to omit nothing for
+that purpose.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XX.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The treachery of a Russian lady to her friend: her passion for
+Horatio: the method he took to avoid making any return, and some other
+entertaining occurrences.</i></p>
+<p>It is easy to believe that Horatio, tho' relieved from that
+extremity of misery he suffered while in the dungeon, was far from being
+able to content himself with his present condition:—a thousand times he
+reproached himself for pursuing the dictates of a glory which now seemed
+so tyrannic:—Have I, cried he, hazarded the eternal displeasure of the
+best of men,—refused the invitation of the adorable Charlotta,—slighted
+the condescentions of her father,—been deaf both to interest and love, to
+become a prisoner to the worst of barbarians!—Who now will pity me!—Or
+if they yet would be so good, how shall I acquaint them with my wretched
+fate!—Nay, were there even a possibility of that, what would the
+compassion of the whole world avail, since a slave to those, who,
+contrary to the law of nations, and even common humanity, refuse, on any
+terms, to release the wretches fallen into their savage power!</p>
+<p>In this manner did he bewail himself night and day, and indeed had but
+too just reasons for doing so:—he had heard that the last time the czar
+had been at Petersburg, he had sent all the prisoners he had then taken to
+Siberia, and other province of the greater Tartary, where they were
+compelled, without any distinction, to do the work of horses rather than
+men, and doubted not but at his next return all those now in his power
+would meet the same fate, tho' the generous king of Sweden had sent back
+the Muscovites he had taken, by 1500 and 2000 at a time.—This, however,
+may be said in favour of the czar, that by the many attempts he made to
+civilize his barbarous subjects, it must be supposed he would have been
+glad to have imitated this generosity, had it been confident with his
+safety; but the case had this difference, Charles XII. feared not the
+number of the Muscovites, but the czar feared the courage of the Swedes.</p>
+<p>What also increased the affliction of these gentlemen, was, that being
+debarred from all intelligence, they could hear nothing of their king,
+whom each of them loved with a kind of filial affection and duty.—Horatio
+and two others had been witnesses of the extreme danger in which they left
+him; and tho' at the time they were seized he had killed thirteen or
+fourteen Muscovites with his own hand, and they perceived general Dardoff
+had come up to his relief, yet they could not be certain of his safety;
+till at length the sweet-conditioned Edella perceiving the despair they
+were in on this account, informed them that his majesty was not only well,
+but as successful as ever; that he had passed far into Ukrania, had
+defeated the Muscovites in five battles, and so far reduced the czar, that
+he had condescended to make some overtures of peace; which having been
+rejected, it was the common opinion, that in a very short time the Swedes
+would enter Moscow, and become arbiters of Russia as they had been of
+Poland.</p>
+<p>Adequate to their late grief was their satisfaction at this joyful
+news:—Horatio was transported above his companions, and threw himself at
+the feet of the fair intelligencer; but she desired they would all of them
+moderate their contentment so far as to hinder the guards, who had the
+care of them, from perceiving it, because, said she, it might not only
+draw on yourselves worse treatment, but also render me suspected of being
+against the interest of a court, on which my fate has reduced me to become
+a dependant.</p>
+<p>Horatio, as well as the others, assured her he would take care to
+manage the felicity she had bestowed upon them, so as not to be any way
+prejudicial to her; and she took her leave, promising to be with them
+again in a few days, and bring them farther information, a courier from
+the camp, she said, being expected every hour.</p>
+<p>But while this compassionate lady was pleasing herself, by giving all
+the ease in her power to the distressed, the cruel Mattakesa was plotting
+her destruction.—She had several of her kindred, and a great many
+acquaintance in the army, who were in considerable posts, to all of whom
+she exclaimed against the loose behaviour, as she termed it, of Edelia,
+and represented her charities to the prisoners as the effects of a wanton
+inclination:—this she doubted not but would come to prince Menzikoff's
+ears, and perhaps incense him enough to cause her to be privately made
+away with; for as she imagined nothing less than the most amorous
+intercourse between her and Horatio, she thought it unadvisable to declare
+the passion she had for him, till a rival so formidable, by the advantages
+she had over her in youth and beauty, should be removed.</p>
+<p>This base woman therefore impatiently waited the arrival of the next
+courier, to find how far her stratagem had succeeded; and the moment she
+heard he had delivered his dispatches, flew to the apartment of Edella, in
+hopes of being informed of what she so much desired to know.</p>
+<p>She was not altogether deceived in her expectations: she found that
+lady drowned in tears, with a letter lying open before her; and on her
+enquiring, with a shew of the utmost concern, the motives of her grief,
+the other, who looked on her as her real friend, replied, alas! Mattakesa,
+I have cruel enemies; I cannot guess for what cause, for willingly I never
+gave offence to any one;—but see, continued she, how barbarously they
+have abused my innocence, and represented actions which, heaven knows,
+were influenced only by charity and compassion as the worst of crimes!
+with these words she gave her the letter which she had just received from
+the prince,</p>
+<p>Mattakesa took it with a greedy pleasure, and found it contained these
+lines:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To</i> EDELLA.<br/>
+<br/>
+Madam,<br/>
+<br/>
+"I left you in a place, furnished, as I thought,<br/>
+with every thing necessary for your satisfaction;<br/>
+but I find I was mistaken in your constitution,<br/>
+and that there was something wanting,<br/>
+which, rather than not possess, you must have<br/>
+recourse to a prison to procure:—ungrateful<br/>
+as you are to the affection I have treated you<br/>
+with, I am sorry for your ill conduct, and could<br/>
+with you had been, at least, more private in<br/>
+your amours: few men but would have sent an<br/>
+order for removing you and the persons, for<br/>
+whose sake you have made these false steps,<br/>
+into a place where you would have cause to<br/>
+curse the fatal inclination that seduced you:<br/>
+think therefore how much you owe a prince,<br/>
+who, instead of punishing your faults, contents<br/>
+himself with letting you know he is not ignorant<br/>
+of them.—If you make a right use of<br/>
+the lenity I shew on this occasion, you may<br/>
+perhaps retrieve some part of the influence you<br/>
+once had over me; but see the Swedish prisoners<br/>
+no more, if you hope or desire ever to see<br/>
+<br/>
+MENZIKOFF."</p>
+<p>Mattakesa affected the greatest astonishment on having read this
+letter; and after having cursed the persons that put such vile suspicions
+into the prince's head, asked her what she intended to do.</p>
+<p>What can I do! answered the sorrowful Edella, but write to my lord all
+the assurances that words, can give him, which heaven knows I can truly
+do, that I never wronged him even in wish or thought; and that since there
+are people so cruel to misinterpret to my dishonour, what was nothing but
+mere charity, to obey his commands with the utmost punctuality, and never
+set my foot into that prison more?</p>
+<p>Her false friend could not but applaud her resolution, yet told her it
+was pity that ill tongues should deprive those unfortunate gentlemen of
+the relief she had hitherto afforded them, or herself of the pleasure she
+took in their conversation.</p>
+<p>As for the first, said Edella, heaven may perhaps raise the mother
+friends more capable of lifting them; and as to the other, were it
+infinitely greater, it would be my inclination, as it is my duty, to
+sacrifice every thing to the will of a prince whom I love, and to whom I
+am so much obliged.</p>
+<p>Mattakesa having thus compared her design, so far as to be under no
+apprehensions of being interrupted by her imagined rival, tho' she had
+rather she had been poisoned or strangled, went directly to the prison and
+told the gentlemen, it was with the utmost concern she must acquaint them
+that Edella would never visit them any more, nor continue the weekly
+pension she had hitherto allowed them.</p>
+<p>Those among them who understood her, and the others to whom Horatio
+interpreted what she said, looked one upon another with a great deal of
+consternation, as imagining one of them had done something to offend her,
+and thereby the rest were thought unworthy of her favours.—Everyone
+endeavoured to clear himself of what he easily saw his companions
+suspected him guilty of; till Mattakesa, with a scornful smile, told them,
+that it was not owing to the behaviour of any of them, but to Edella's own
+inconstant disposition, that they owed the withdrawing of her bounty; but
+to console them for the loss of it, she promised to speak to some of her
+friends in their behalf, and also to contribute something herself towards
+alleviating their misfortunes; but, added she, I am not the mistress of a
+prince and first favourite, so have it not in my power to act as the
+generosity of my nature inclines me to do.</p>
+<p>She stayed with them a considerable time, and entertained them with
+little else than railing on Edella; and to make her appear as odious and
+contemptible as she could to Horatio, insinuated that it was for the sake
+of a young needy favourite she had been obliged to withdraw the allowance
+they had from her.</p>
+<p>On taking leave she found means to slip a little billet into Horatio's
+hands, unperceived by any of the company, which, as soon as he had a
+convenient opportunity, he opened, and found these words in French:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To the agreeable</i> HORATIO.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"Tho' I have not perhaps so much beauty<br/>
+as Edella, I have twice her sincerity, and<br/>
+not many years older: such as I am, however,<br/>
+I fancy you will think a correspondence with<br/>
+me of too much advantage to be refused:—if<br/>
+you will counterfeit an indisposition, to-morrow<br/>
+I will out of excessive charity visit you, and<br/>
+bring you a refreshment, I flatter myself, will<br/>
+not be disagreeable to a man in your circumstances:—farewell;—be<br/>
+secret,—and love as well as you can,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+MATTAKESA."</p>
+<p>Of all the accidents that had befallen Horatio since his leaving
+England, none ever so much surprized him as the prodigious impudence of
+this lady: he had heard talk of such adventures, but never till now
+believed there could be any such thing in nature, as a woman that offered
+herself in this manner, without the least sollicitation from the person on
+whom she wished to lavish what ought only to be the reward of an approved,
+or at least a shew of the most violent passion.</p>
+<p>The dilemma he was in how to behave, was also equal to his
+astonishment:—had she been the most lovely of her sex, as she was very
+much the reverse, the ever present idea of his dear Charlotta would have
+defended his heart from the invasions of any other charms; but he needed
+not that pre-engagement to make him look with detestation on a woman of
+Mattakesa's principles:—when he reflected on what she had said concerning
+Edella, he found her base, censorious, and unjust:—and when he considered
+the manner in which she proceeded in regard to himself, he saw a lewdness
+and audacity which rendered her doubly odious, to him:—he doubted not but
+she was wicked and subtle enough to contrive some means of revenging
+herself, in case she met with a disappointment in her wishes, yet had too
+great an abhorrence to be able to entertain one thought of gratifying
+them.</p>
+<p>As he was young and unexperienced in the world, he would have been glad
+of some advice how to act so as not to incur her resentment, yet avoid her
+love; but the strict notions he had of honour remonstrated to him that he
+ought not to betray a secret of that nature, tho' confided in him by an
+ill woman.—Her baseness, cried he to himself, would be no excuse for
+mine; and it is better for me to risque whatever her malice may inflict,
+than forfeit my character, by exposing a woman who pretends to love me.</p>
+<p>These thoughts kept him waking the whole night; and his restlessness
+being observed by an old Swedish officer who by with him, he was very much
+importuned by him to discover to him the occasion.—Horatio defended
+himself for a good while by the considerations before recited; but at
+length reflecting; that the person who was so desirous of being let into
+the secret, had a great deal of discretion, he at length suffered himself
+to be prevailed upon, and told him what Mattakesa had wrote to him, for he
+did not understand a word of French, so could not read the letter.</p>
+<p>This officer no sooner heard the story, than he laughed heartily at the
+scruples of Horatio, in thinking himself bound to conceal an affair of
+this nature with a woman of the character Mattakesa must needs be:—he
+also rallied his delicacy, as he termed it, in hesitating one moment
+whether he should gratify the lady's inclinations.—One would imagine,
+said he, that so long a fall from love as we have had, should render our
+appetites more keen:—what, tho' Mattakesa be neither handsome nor very
+young, she is a woman, and amorous, and methinks there should need no
+other excitements to a young man like you.</p>
+<p>Horatio, tho' naturally gay, was not at present in a disposition to
+continue this raillery, and told his friend, he looked on this inclination
+of Mattakesa to be as great a misfortune as could happen to them; for,
+said he, as it is wholly out of my power to make her any returns, that
+violence of temper which has transported her to forget the modesty of her
+sex, will probably, when she finds herself rejected, make her as easily
+throw off all the softness of it; and you may all feel the effects of that
+revenge she will endeavour to take on me.</p>
+<p>The other was entirely of his opinion; and they both agreed that, some
+way ought to thought on to avert the storm, her resentment might in all
+probability occasion.</p>
+<p>After many fruitless inventions, they at last hit upon one which had a
+prospect of success: they had in their company a gentleman called Mullern,
+nephew to chancellor Mullern, who had attended the king in all his wars:
+he was handsome, well made, and his age, tho' much superior to that of
+Horatio, yet was not so far advanced as to render him disagreeable to the
+fair sex: he was of a more than ordinary sanguine disposition, and had
+often said, of all the hardships their captivity had inflicted on them, he
+felt none so severely as being deprived of a free conversation with
+women.—In the ravages the king of Sweden's arms had made in Lithuania,
+Saxony and Poland, he was sure to secure to himself three or four of the
+finest women; and tho' he had been often checked by his uncle, and even by
+the king himself, for giving too great a loose to his amorous
+inclinations, yet all their admonitions were too weak to restrain the
+impetuosity of his desires this way. To him, therefore, they resolved to
+communicate the affair; and as he was in other respects the most proper
+object among them to succeed in supplanting Horatio, so he was also by
+being perfectly well versed in the French language, which the rest were
+ignorant of.</p>
+<p>Accordingly they told him what had happened, shewed him the letter, and
+how willing Horatio would be to transfer all the interest he had in this
+lady to him, if he could by any means ingratiate himself into her favour.
+Mullern was transported at the idea; and the stratagem contrived among
+them for this purpose was executed in the following manner:</p>
+<p>Mattakesa was punctual to the promise she had made in her letter; and
+when she came into the room, where she usually found the gentlemen
+altogether, it being that where they dined, and saw not Horatio, she
+doubted not but he had observed her directions, and pretended himself
+indisposed, so asked for him, expecting to be told that he was ill; but
+when they answered that he was gone with one of the keepers to the top of
+the round tower, in order to satisfy his curiosity in taking a view of the
+town, she was confounded beyond expression, and could not imagine what had
+occasioned him to slight an assignation, she had flattered herself he
+would receive with extacy.</p>
+<p>As she was in a little resvery, endeavouring to comprehend, if
+possible, the motive of so manifest a neglect, Mullern drew near to her,
+and beginning to speak of the beauties of that fine city which the czar
+had erected in the midst of war, he told her, that having a little skill
+in drawing, he had ventured to make a little sketch of it in chalk on the
+walls of the room where he lay, and entreated her in the most gallant
+manner to look upon it, and give him her opinion how far he had done
+justice to an edifice so much admired.</p>
+<p>It cannot be supposed that Mattakesa had in her soul any curiosity to
+see a work of this nature, yet, to hide as much as she could the disorder
+she was in at her disappointment, gave him her hand, in order to be
+concluded to the place where he pretended to have been exercising his
+genius.</p>
+<p>As soon as they were entered he threw the door, as if by incident,
+which having a spring lock, immediately was made fast—She either did not,
+or seemed not to regard what he had done; but casting her eyes round the
+room, and seeing nothing of what he had mentioned,—Where is this drawing?
+cried she. In my heart, adorable Mattakesa, answered he, falling at her
+feet at the same time:—it is not the city of Petersburg, but the charming
+image of its brightest ornament, that the god of love has engraven on my
+heart in characters too indelible ever to be erased:—from the first
+moment I beheld those eyes my soul has been on fire, and I must have
+consumed with inward burnings had I not revealed my flame:—pardon,
+continued he, the boldness of a passion which knows no bounds; and tho' I
+may not be so worthy of your love as the too happy Horatio, I am certainly
+not less deserving of your pity.</p>
+<p>Surprize, and perhaps a mixture of secret satisfaction prevented her
+from interrupting him during the first part of his discourse; but rage, at
+the mention of Horatio, forced from her this exclamation:—has the villain
+then betrayed me! cried she.—No, madam, replied he, justice obliges me to
+acquit him, tho' my rival.—He had the misfortune, in putting your billet
+into his pocket, to let it fall; I took it up unseen by him,—opened it,
+read it, and must confess, that all my generosity to my friend was wholly
+swallowed up in my passion for you.—I returned not to him that kind
+declaration you were pleased to make him, and he is ignorant of the
+blessing you intended for him:—if the crime I have been guilty of seem
+unpardonable in your eyes, command my death, I will instantly obey you,
+for life would be a torment under your displeasure; and if, in my last
+moments, you vouchsafe some part of that softness to the occasion of my
+fate, that you so lavishly bestowed on the fortunate Horatio, I will bless
+the lovely mouth that dooms me to destruction!</p>
+<p>He pronounced all this with an emphasis, which made her not doubt the
+power of her charms; and surveying him while he was speaking, found enough
+in his person to compensate for the disappointment she had met with from
+Horatio: besides, she reflected, that if what he had told her concerning
+the dropping her letter, was a fiction, it was however an ingenious one,
+and shewed his wit, as well as love, in bringing both himself and friend
+off in so handsome a manner. She was infatuated with the praises he gave
+her;—the pathetic expressions he made use of, assured her of the ardency
+of his desires, and as she could not be certain of being able to inspire
+Horatio with the same, she wisely chose to accept the present offer,
+rather than wait for what might perhaps at last deceive her expectations.
+She made, however, no immediate answer; but her eyes told him she was far
+from being displeased with what he had said, and gave him courage to take
+up one of her hands and kiss it, with an eagerness which confirmed his
+protestations.</p>
+<p>At last,—Well, Mullern, said she, looking languishingly on him, since
+chance has made you acquainted with my foible, I think I must bribe you to
+secrecy, by forgiving the liberties you take with me:—and if I were
+convinced you really love me as well as you pretend, might indulge you yet
+farther.—An unaccountable caprice indeed swayed me in favour of Horatio,
+but I am now half inclinable to believe you are more deserving my
+regard;—but rise, continued she, I will hear nothing from you while in
+that posture.</p>
+<p>Mullern, who was no less bold in love than war, immediately obeyed her,
+and testified his gratitude for her condescention, by giving a sudden
+spring and snatching her to his breast, pressed her in so arduous a
+manner, that she would have been incapable of resisting, even tho' she had
+an inclination to do so: but she, no less transported than himself,
+returned endearment for endearment, and not only permitted, but assisted
+all his raptures,—absolutely forgot Horatio, as well as all sense of her
+own shame, and yielded him a full enjoyment without even an affectation of
+repugnance.</p>
+<p>Both parties, in fine, were perfectly satisfied with each other, and
+having mutually sworn a thousand oaths of fidelity which neither of them,
+it is probable, had any intention to keep, Mullern took upon himself the
+care of continuing to entertain her in private as often as she came to the
+prison, and in return she made him a present of a purse of gold, after
+which they passed into the outer room to prevent censures on their staying
+too long together.</p>
+<p>On their return they found Horatio with the other gentlemen. Abandoned
+as Mattakesa was, she could not keep herself from blushing a little at
+sight of him; but soon recovering herself by the help of her natural
+audacity,—Well, Horatio, said she, what do you think of the little French
+epigram I put into your hands yesterday;—has it not a very agreeable
+point?</p>
+<p>Horatio had such an aversion to all kind of deceit, that even here,
+where it was so necessary, he could not, without some hesitation, answer
+to what she said in these words.—Some accident or other, cried he,
+deprived me of the pleasure you were so good to intend me; for when I put
+my hand in my pocket thinking to read it, I perceived I was so unhappy as
+to have lost, it:—I looked for it in vain:—it was irrecoverably gone,
+and I am an utter stranger to the contents.</p>
+<p>And ever shall be so, replied she tartly, only to punish your
+carelessness of a lady's favour; know, that it was a piece of wit which
+would have been highly agreeable to you:—but don't expect I shall take
+the pains to write it over again, or even tell you the subject on which it
+turned.</p>
+<p>Horatio cooly said, he could not but confess he had been to blame, and
+must therefore allow the justice of her proceeding. As none present
+besides himself, his bedfellow, and Mullern, knew the truth of this
+affair, what passed between them was taken by the others as literally
+spoken, and little suspected to couch the mystery it really did.</p>
+<p>Mullern, after this, by the assistance of Horatio and the old officer,
+had frequent opportunities of gratifying his own and the amorous
+Mattakesa's desires.—The testimonies she gave him how well she was
+pleased with his conversation, were for the common good of his
+companions.—Horatio was easy in finding himself out of all danger of any
+solicitations he was determined never to acquiesce in; and those three who
+were in the secret passed their time pleasantly enough, whenever they had
+an opportunity of talking on this adventure, without any of the others
+being witnesses of what they said.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The prisoners expectations raised: a terrible disappointment: some
+of the chief carried to prince Menzikoff's palace: their usage there.
+Horatio set at liberty, and the occasion</i>.</p>
+<p>Our captives had soon after a new matter of rejoicing: a Polander in
+the service of Muscovy, who had been taken prisoner by the Swedes, and was
+discharged and sent home, with a great number of others, by the
+unparallell'd generosity of Charles XII. was one of the guards who now did
+duty in the prison. It was often his turn to bring them their poor
+allowance of provision; and having some pity for their condition, as well
+as gratitude for a people who had used him and his companions in a
+different manner, told them, that they might be of good heart, for, said
+he, you will soon be set at liberty:—our emperor has enough to do to keep
+his ground in Ukraina: Charles is as victorious as ever:—the prince of
+the Cosaques, one of the bravest men on earth, next to himself, has
+entered into an alliance with him:—king Stanislaus is sending him
+succours from Poland:—a powerful reinforcement is coming to him from
+Lithuania; and when these armies are joined, as I believe they already
+are, nothing can withstand them:—you will hear the Swedish march beat
+from this prison walls,—and perhaps see your present conquerors change
+places with you; and, to confirm the truth of what I say, continued he, I
+can further assure you that the czar, before I left the camp, was in the
+utmost confusion:—his council, as well as army, were at a stand, and he
+had twice made overtures of peace, and been refused.</p>
+<p>This was an intelligence which might well be transporting to the king
+of Sweden's officers:—the thought; of seeing him enter Petersburgh a
+conqueror,—of once more embracing their old friends and companions, and
+of triumphing over those who had so cruelly abused the power the chance of
+war had put into their hands, made them all, in their turns, hug and bless
+the kind informer:—they also asked him several questions concerning the
+generals; and each being more particular concerning those they had the
+greatest interest in, received from this honest soldier all the
+satisfaction they could desire.</p>
+<p>As couriers were continually arriving from the army, there passed few
+days without hearing some farther confirmation of their most sanguine
+expectations; but at length the guard being again changed, they lost all
+further intelligence, and were for several months without being able to
+hear any thing of what passed. They doubted not, however, but as things
+were in so good a disposition, every day brought them nearer to the
+completion of their wishes; and it was this pleasing prospect which
+addressed their misfortunes, and enabled them to sustain cheerfully those
+hardships which, almost ever since the withdrawing of Edella's bounty,
+they had laboured under.—Mattakesa, in the beginning of her amours with
+Mullern, had indeed made him some presents, which he shared with his
+companions; but either the natural inconstancy of her temper making her
+grow weary of this intrigue for the sake of another, or her circumstances
+not allowing her to continue such Donations, she soon grew sparing of
+them, and at length totally desisted her visits at the prison.</p>
+<p>As, ever since the compassionate Edella had procured them to be
+removed from the dungeon, they had enjoyed the privilege of walking on the
+leads, and going up to the round tower, which being of a very great
+height, not only overlooked the town, but the country round for a
+considerable distance, they frequently made use of this indulgence, at
+first for no other purpose than to have the benefit of the open air, but
+now in hope of seeing their beloved prince at the head of a victorious
+army approaching to give them liberty and relief.—But, alas! how terrible
+a reverse of their high-raised expectations had inconstant fortune in
+store for them.—One day as they were sitting together, discoursing on the
+usual topics with which they entertained each other, and endeavoured to
+beguile the tedious time, they heard a confused noise as of some sudden
+tumult.—Tho' they had now been above a year in Russia, none of them could
+speak the language well enough to be understood, so could receive no
+information from the guard, even should they have proved good-natured
+enough to be willing to satisfy their curiosity, so they all run hastily
+up to the round tower, whence they easily perceived the town in great
+confusion, and the people running in such crowds, that in the hurry many
+were trampled to death in endeavouring to pass the gates:—at a distance
+they perceived standards waving in the air, but could not yet distinguish
+what arms they bore.—A certain shivering and palpitation, the natural
+consequence of suspence, ran thro' all their nerves, divided as they were
+at this sight, between hope and fear; but when it drew more near,—when,
+instead of Swedish colours they beheld those of Russia;—when, in the
+place where they expected to see their gallant king coming to restore them
+once more to freedom, they saw the implacable czar enter in triumph,
+followed by those heroes, the least of whom had lately made him tremble,
+now in chains, and exposed to the ribald mirth and derision of the gaping
+crowd, they lost at once their fortitude, and even all sense of expressing
+their grief at this misfortune:—the shock of it was so violent, it even
+took away the power of feeling it, and they remained for some moments
+rather like statues carv'd out by mortal art, than real men created by
+God, and animated with living souls. A general groan was the first mark
+they gave of any sensibility of this dreadful stroke of fate; but when
+recruited spirits once more gave utterance to words, how terrible were
+their exclamations! Some of them, in the extravagance of despair, said
+things relating to fate and destiny, which, on a less occasion, could
+have little merited forgiveness.</p>
+<p>Unable either to remove from the place, or view distinctly what their
+eyes were fixed upon, they stayed till the whole cavalcade was passed,
+then went down and threw themselves upon the floor, where their ears were
+deafen'd by the noise of guns, loud huzza's, and other testimonies of
+popular rejoicings, both within and without the prison walls.—What have
+we now to expect? cried one,—endless slavery:—chains, infamy, lasting as
+our lives, replied another. Then let us dye, added a third. Right, said
+his companion feircely;—the glory of Sweden is lost!—Let us disappoint
+these barbarians, these Russian monsters, of the pleasure of insulting us
+on our country's fall.</p>
+<p>In this romantic and distracted manner did they in vain endeavour to
+discharge their breasts of the load of anguish each sustained.—Their
+misfortune was not of a nature to be alleviated by words;—it was too
+mighty for expression; and the more they spoke, the more they had yet to
+say.—For three whole days they refused the wretched sustenance brought to
+them; neither did the least slumber ever close their eyelids by night: on
+the fourth the keeper of the prison came, and told them they must
+depart.—They endeavoured not to inform themselves how or where they were
+to be disposed of; in their present condition all places were alike to
+them, so followed him, without speaking, down stairs, at the bottom of
+which they found a strong guard of thirty soldiers, who having chained
+them in a link, like slaves going to be sold at the market, conducted them
+to a very stately palace adjoining to that belonging to the czar.</p>
+<p>They were but eight in number, out of fifty-five who had been taken
+prisoners at the time Horatio was, and were thrown altogether in the
+dungeon, the others having perished thro' cold and the noysomeness of the
+place, before Edella had procured them a more easy situation; but these
+eight that survived were all officers, and most of them men of
+distinguished birth as well as valour, tho' their long imprisonment,
+scanty food, and more than all, the grief they at present laboured under
+made them look rather like ghosts, than men chose out of thousands to
+fight always near the king of Sweden's person in every hazardous attempt.</p>
+<p>They were placed in a stately gallery, and there left, while the
+officer, who commanded the party that came with them, went into an inner
+room, but soon after returned, and another person with him; on which, the
+first of this unhappy string was loosed from his companions, and a signal
+made to him to enter a door, which was opened for him, and immediately
+closed again.</p>
+<p>For about half an hour there was a profound silence: our prisoners kept
+it thro' astonishment; and the others, it is to be supposed, had orders
+for doing so.—At the end of that time the door was again opened, and the
+chain which fastened the second Swede to the others, was untied, and he,
+in like manner as the former, bid to go in.—In some time after, the same
+ceremony was observed to a third;—then to a fourth, fifth, sixth, and
+seventh:—Horatio chanced to be the last, who, tho' alarmed to a very
+great degree at the thoughts of what fate might have been inflicted on his
+companions, went fearless in, more curious to know the meaning of this
+mysterious proceeding, than anxious for what might befal him.</p>
+<p>He had no sooner passed the door, than he found himself in a spacious
+chamber richly adorned, at the upper end of which sat a man, leaning his
+head upon his arm in a thoughtful posture.—Horatio immediately knew him
+to be prince Menzikoff, whom he had seen during a short truce between the
+czar and king Charles of Sweden, when both their armies were in Lithuania.
+There were no other persons present than one who had the aspect of a jew,
+and as it proved was so, that stood near the prince's chair, and a soldier
+who kept the door.</p>
+<p>Horatio was bid to approach, and when he did so,—you are called
+hither, said the jew in the Swedish language, to answer to such questions
+as shall be asked you, concerning a conspiracy carried on between you and
+your fellow-prisoners with the enemies of Russia. Horatio understood the
+language perfectly well, having conversed so long with Swedes, but never
+could attain to a perfect pronounciation of it, so replied in French, that
+he knew the prince could speak French, and he would therefore answer to
+any interrogatories his highness should be pleased to make without the
+help of an interpreter.</p>
+<p>Are you not then a Swede? said the prince. Horatio then told him that
+he was not, but came from France into the service of the king of Sweden
+merely thro' his love of arms.</p>
+<p>On these words Menzikoff dismissed the jew, and looked earnestly on
+him; wan and pale as he was grown thro' his long confinement, and the many
+hardships he had sustained, this prince found something in him that
+attracted his admiration.—Methinks, said he, since glory was your aim,
+you might as well have hoped to acquire it under the banners of our
+invincible emperor.</p>
+<p>Alas! my lord, replied Horatio with a sigh, that title, till very
+lately, was given to the king of Sweden, and, I believe, whatever fate
+has attended that truly great prince, those who had the honour to be
+distinguished by him, will never be suspected either of cowardice or
+baseness.—It was by brave and open means our king taught his soldiers the
+way to victory, not by mean subterfuges and little plots:—I cannot
+therefore conceive for what reason I am brought hither to be examined on
+any score that has the appearance of a conspiracy.</p>
+<p>Yes, replied the prince feircely, you and your fellow-prisoners have
+endeavoured to insinuate yourselves into the favour of persons whom you
+imagined entrusted with the secrets of the government:—being prisoners of
+war, you formed contrivances for your escape, and attempted to inveigle
+others to accompany your flight.</p>
+<p>That every tittle of this accusation is false, my lord, cried Horatio,
+there needs no more than the improbability of it to prove.—Indeed the
+cruel usage we sustained, might have justified an attempt to free
+ourselves, yet did such a design never enter our heads:—we were so far
+from making use of any stratagems for that purpose, that we never made the
+least overture to any of the guards, who were the only persons we were
+allowed to converse with.</p>
+<p>How! said the prince interrupting him, were not your privileges
+enlarged by the interposition of a lady?—Did she not make you
+considerable allowances out of her own purse, and frequently visit you to
+receive your thanks?—And were you not emboldened by these favours to urge
+her to reveal what secrets were in her knowledge, and even to assist you
+in your escape?—You doubtless imagined you could prevail on her also to
+go with you:—part of this, continued he, she has herself confessed:—it
+will therefore be in vain for you to deny it:—if you ingenuously reveal
+these particulars she has omitted, you may hope to find favour; but it you
+obstinately persist, as your companions have done, in attempting to
+impose upon me, you must expect to share the same fate immediately.</p>
+<p>In speaking these words he made a sign to the soldier, who throwing
+open a large folding door, discovered a rack on which one of the Swedish
+officers was tied, and the others stood near bound, and in the hands of
+the executioner.</p>
+<p>This sight so amazed Horatio, that he had not the power of speaking one
+word;—till Mullern, who happened to be the person that was fastened upon
+the rack, cried out to him,—Be not lost in consideration, Horatio, said
+he; are we not in the hands of Muscovites, from whom nothing that is human
+can be expected?—rather prepare yourself to disappoint their cruelty, by
+bravely suffering all they dare inflict.</p>
+<p>Hold then, said Horatio, even Muscovites would chuse to have some
+pretence for what they do; and sure the first favourite and generalissimo
+of a prince, who boasts an inclination to civilize his barbarous subjects,
+will not, without any cause, torture them whom chance alone has put into
+his power, and who have never done him any personal injury.—By heaven,
+pursued he, turning to the prince, we all are innocent of any part of
+those crimes laid to our charge:—time, perhaps, if our declarations are
+ineffectual, will convince your highness we are so, and you will then
+regret the injustice you have done us.</p>
+<p>You all are in one story, cried the prince, but I am well assured of
+the main point:—the particulars is all I want to be informed of:—but
+since I am compelled to speak more plain, which of you is it for whose
+sake you all received such instances of Edella's bounty?—Whoever tells me
+that, even tho' it be the person himself, shall have both pardon and
+liberty.</p>
+<p>Impossible it is to express the astonishment every one was in at this
+demand: five of them had not the least notion what it meant; but Mullern,
+Horatio, and that friend to whom he had shewn the letter of Mattakesa, had
+some conjecture of the truth, and presently imagined that lady had been
+the incendiary to kindle the flame of jealousy in the prince's breast. The
+affair, however, was of so nice a nature, that they knew not how to
+vindicate Edella without making her seem more guilty, so contented
+themselves with joining with the others, in protesting they knew of no one
+among them who could boast of receiving any greater favours from her than
+his fellows, but that what she did was instigated merely by compassion,
+since she had never seen, or knew who any of them were, till after she had
+moved the governor in their behalf:—they acknowledged she had been so
+good as to come sometimes to the prison, in order to see if those she
+entrusted with her bounty had been faithful in the delivery of it; but
+that she never made the least difference between them, and never had
+conversation with any one of them that was not in the presence of them
+all. Mullern could not forbear adding to this, that he doubted not but the
+persons who had incensed his highness into groundless surmises, were also
+the same who had hindered her, by some false insinuations or other, from
+continuing the allowance her charity allowed them, and for the want of
+which they had since been near perishing.</p>
+<p>Prince Menzikoff listened attentively to what each said, and with no
+less earnestness fixed his eyes on the face of every one as they
+spoke.—Finding they had done, he was about giving some orders on their
+account, when the keeper of the prison came hastily into the room, and
+having entreated pardon for the interruption, presented a letter to the
+prince, directed for brigadier Mullern, and brought, he said, just after
+the prisoners were carried out.</p>
+<p>Menzikoff commended his zeal in receiving and bringing it to him, as it
+might possibly serve to give some light to the affair he was examining.</p>
+<p>Having perused it, he demanded which of them was named Mullern? I am,
+replied the brave Swede; and neither fear, nor am ashamed of any thing
+under that name.</p>
+<p>Hear then what is wrote to you by a lady, resumed the prince, with a
+countenance more serene than he had worn since their being brought before
+him, and presently read with a very audible voice these words:<br/>
+<br/>
+"That you have been so long without<br/>
+seeing me, my dear Mullern, or hearing<br/>
+from me, is not owing to any decrease in my<br/>
+affection, but to the necessity of my affairs:—if<br/>
+you have any regard for me remaining, I<br/>
+conjure you, if ever you are asked any questions<br/>
+concerning the frequent visits I have made<br/>
+you, to say I was sent by Edella, and that I was<br/>
+no more than her emissary in the assistance you<br/>
+received from me:—add also, that you have<br/>
+reason to believe her charity was excited by<br/>
+her liking one of your company:—mention<br/>
+who you think fit; but I believe Horatio, as<br/>
+the youngest and most handsome, will be the<br/>
+most likely to gain credit to what you say.—<br/>
+Depend upon it, that if you execute this commission<br/>
+artfully, I will recompence it by procuring<br/>
+your liberty:—nor need you have any<br/>
+scruples concerning it, for no person will be<br/>
+prejudiced by it, and the reputation preserved<br/>
+of<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours,</i><br/>
+<br/>
+MATTAKESA."</p>
+<p>I suppose, said the prince, as soon as he had done reading, turning to
+Horatio, you are the person mentioned in the letter? Tho' I neither desire
+nor deserve the epithets given me there my lord, replied he, yet I will
+not deny but I am called Horatio.</p>
+<p>Well, resumed the prince with a half smile, I am so well pleased with
+the conviction this letter has given me, that I shall retain no resentment
+against the malicious author of it.</p>
+<p>He then ordered Mullern to be taken from the rack, which had never been
+strained; nor had he any intention, as he now assured him, to put him to
+the torture, but only to intimidate him, being resolved to make use of
+every method he could think of for the full discovery of every thing
+relating to the behaviour of his beloved Edella.—The other gentlemen had
+also their fetters taken off, and the prince asked pardon of them
+severally for the injury he had done them; then made them sit down and
+partake of a handsome collation at that table, before which they had so
+lately stood as delinquents at a bar.</p>
+<p>The Russians are excessive in their carouses, and prince Menzikoff
+being now in an admirable good humour, made them drink very freely:—to be
+the more obliging to his guests, he began the king of Sweden's health in a
+bumper of brandy, protesting at the same time, that tho' an enemy to his
+master, he loved and venerated the hero: Horatio on this ventured to
+enquire in what condition his majesty was; to which the prince replied,
+that being greatly wounded, he was obliged to leave the field, and, it was
+believed, had took the load toward the dominions of the grand signior,
+some of the Russian troops having pursued him as far as the Borysthenes
+where, by the incredible valour of a few that attended him, they had been
+beat back.</p>
+<p>The Swedish officers knew it must be bad indeed when their king was
+compelled to fly; and this renewed in them a melancholy, which it was not
+in the power of liquor, or the present civilities of the prince to
+dissipate: they also learned that the generals Renchild, Slipenbock,
+Hamilton, Hoorn, Leuenhaup, and Stackelburg, with the prince of
+Wirtemburg, count Piper, and the flower of the whole army, were prisoners
+at Muscow.</p>
+<p>The misfortune of these great men would have been very afflicting to
+those who heard it, could any thing have given addition to what they knew
+before.—Prince Menzikoff was sensible of what they felt, and to alleviate
+their grief, assured them that he would take upon him to give them all
+their liberty, without even exacting a promise from them never more to
+draw their swords against the czar, in case the king of Sweden should ever
+be able to take the field again.</p>
+<p>So generous a proceeding both merited and received their utmost
+acknowledgments: but he put an end to the serious demonstrations they were
+about to make him of their gratitude, by saying,—I pay you no more than I
+owe you:—I have wronged you:—this is but part of the retaliation I ought
+to make:—besides, added he laughing, Mattakesa promised Mullern his
+freedom; and as she has done me the good office, tho' undesignedly, of
+revealing to me her own treachery, I can do no less than assist her in
+fulfilling, her covenant.</p>
+<p>To prove how much he was in earnest, he called his secretary, and
+ordered him to make out their passports with all expedition, that they
+might be ready to depart next morning; after which he made them repose
+themselves in his palace the remainder of the night; which being in a
+manner vastly different from what they had been accustomed to of a long
+time, indeed ever since their quitting Alranstadt, they did not fail to
+do, notwithstanding the discontent of their minds.</p>
+<p>Prince Menzikoff, being now convinced of the fidelity of Edella, passed
+into her apartment, where the reconciliation between them took up so much
+time, that it was near noon next day before he appeared: his new guests
+had not quitted their chambers much sooner; but after reproaching
+themselves for having been so tardy, went altogether to take leave of the
+prince, and accept the passports he had been so good to order. As they
+were got ready, he gave them immediately into their hands, and told them,
+they were at liberty to quit Petersburg that moment, if they pleased; or
+if they had any curiosity to take a view of that city, they might gratify
+it, and begin their journey next morning. As it was now so late in the
+day, they accepted his highness's offer, and walked out to see a place
+which had excited so much admiration in the world, since from a wild
+waste, in ten years time, a spacious and most beautiful city had arose in
+the midst of war, and proved the genius of the founder greater in civil
+than in military arts, tho' it must be owned he was indefatigable in the
+study of both.</p>
+<p>The officers of the king of Sweden were entertained with the same
+elegance and good humour they had been the night before; and as they were
+now resolved to quit the city extremely early, the prince took leave of
+them that night, and in doing so put a purse of gold into the hands of
+every one to defray the expenses of their travelling. This behaviour
+obliged them to own there was a possibility of sowing the seeds of
+humanity in Muscovy, and that the czar had made some progress in
+influencing those about him with the manners he had himself learned in
+the politer courts.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>What befel Louisa in the monastery: the stratagem she put in
+practice to get out of it: her travels thro' Italy, and arrival in Paris</i>.</p>
+<p>But while Horatio was thus experiencing the vicissitudes of fortune,
+his beautiful sister suffered little less from the caprice of that fickle
+goddess. Placed as she was, one would have thought she had been secure
+from all the temptations, hurries, and dangers of the world, and that
+nothing but the death or inconstancy of monsieur du Plessis could have
+again involved her in them. These, indeed, were the sole evils she
+trembled at, and which she chiefly prayed might not befal her. Yet as it
+often happens that those disasters which seem most remote are nearest to
+us, so did the disappointments she was ordained to suffer, rise from a
+quarter she had the least reason to apprehend.</p>
+<p>The abbess and nuns, with whom she was, being all Italians, she set
+herself to attain to the knowledge of their language, in which she soon
+became a very great proficient, and capable of entertaining them, and
+being entertained by them in the most agreeable manner.—The sweetness of
+her temper, as well as her good sense, rendering her always ambitious of
+acquiring the affection of those she converted with, she had the secret to
+ingratiate herself not only to the youngest nuns, but also to the elder
+and most austere, that the one were never pleased but when in her company,
+and the others propose her as an example of piety and sweetness to the
+rest.</p>
+<p>She had a very pretty genius to poetry, and great skill in music, both
+which talents she now exercised in such works as suited the place and
+company she was in.—The hymns and anthems she composed were not only the
+admiration of that convent, but also of several others to whom they were
+shown, and she was spoke of as a prodigy of wit and devotion.</p>
+<p>In fine, her behavior rendered her extremely dear to the superior; and
+that affection joined to a spiritual pride, which those sanctified
+devotees are seldom wholly free from, made her very desirous of retaining
+her always in the convent:—she was therefore continually preaching up to
+her the uncertainty of those felicities which are to be found in the
+world, and magnifying that happy serenity which a total renunciation from
+it afforded;—nay, sometimes went so far, as to insinuate there was scarce
+a possibility for any one encumbered with the cares, and surrounded with
+the temptations of a public life, to have those dispositions which are
+requisite to enjoy the blessings of futurity.—Ah my dear daughter, would
+she say frequently to her, how much should I rejoice to find in you a
+desire to forgo all the transitory fleeting pleasures of the world, and
+devote yourself entirely to heaven!—what raptures would not your innocent
+soul partake, when wholly devoid of all thought of sensual objects! you
+would be, even while on earth, a companion for angels and blessed spirits,
+and borne on the wings of heavenly contemplation, have your dwelling
+above, and be worshipped as a saint below.</p>
+<p>All the old nuns, and some of the young ones, assisted their abbess in
+endeavouring to prevail on Louisa to take the veil; but all that they said
+made no impression on her mind, not but she had more real piety than
+perhaps some of those who made so great a shew of it, but she was of a
+different way of thinking; and tho' she knew the world had its temptation,
+having experienced them in a very great degree, yet she was-convinced
+within herself, that a person of virtuous principles might be no less
+innocent out of a cloyster than in one.—She saw also among this
+sisterhood a great deal of envy to each other, and perceived early that
+the flaming zeal professed among them was in some hypocrisy, and
+enthusiasm in others; so that had she had no prepossession in favour of du
+Plessis, or any engagement with him, the life of a nun was what she never
+should have made choice of.</p>
+<p>She kept her sentiments on this occasion entirely to herself however,
+and made no shew of any repugnance to do as they would have her; but
+whenever they became strenuous in their pressures, told them, she doubted
+not but such a life as they described must be very angelic, but having
+already disposed of her vows, it was not in her power to withdraw them,
+nor would heaven accept so violated an offering. This, they told her, was
+only a suggestion of some evil spirit, and that all engagements to an
+earthly object, both might and ought to be dispensed with for a divine
+vocation. The arguments they made use of for this purpose were artful
+enough to have imposed on some minds, but Louisa had too much penetration
+not to see thro' them; and being unwilling to disoblige them by shewing
+that she did so, made use, in her turn, of evasions which the
+circumstances of the case rendered very excusable. But fully persuaded in
+their minds that it was solely her engagements with du Plessis that
+rendered her so refractory to their desires, they resolved to break it
+off, if possible, and to that end now intercepted his letters; two of
+which giving an account that he was very much wounded and unable to
+travel, they renewed their pressures, in order to prevail on her to take
+the habit before he should be in a condition to come to Bolognia.</p>
+<p>These sollicitations, however, had no other effect than to embitter the
+satisfaction she would otherwise have enjoyed during her stay among
+them;—the time of which began now to seem tedious, and she impatiently
+longed for the end of the campaign, which she expected would return her
+dear du Plessis to her, and she should be removed from a place where
+dissimulation, a vice she detested, was in a manner necessary. She had
+received several letters from him before the abbess took it in her head to
+stop them, each more endearing than the former; and last had flattered her
+with the hope of seeing him in a very short time.</p>
+<p>Days, weeks, and months passed over, after an assurance so pleasing to
+her wishes, without any confirmation of the repeated vows he had made; and
+receiving from him no account of the reasons that delayed him, she began
+to reproach herself for having placed too much confidence in him;—the
+more time elapsed, the more cause she had to doubt his sincerity, and
+believe her misfortune real:—in fine, it was near half a year that she
+languished under a vain expectation of seeing, or at least hearing from
+him.—Sometimes she imagined a new object had deprived her of his heart;
+but when she called to mind the many proofs he had given her of the most
+unparallell'd generosity that ever was she could not think that if he even
+ceased to love her, he could be capable of leaving her in so cruel a
+suspence:—no, said she to herself, he would have let me know I had no
+more to depend on from him:—paper cannot blush, and as he is out of the
+reach of my upbraidings, he would certainly have acquainted me with my
+fate, confessed the inconstancy of his sex, and exerted that wit, of which
+he has sufficient, to have excused his change:—I will not therefore
+injure a man whom I have found so truly noble:—death, perhaps, his
+deprived me of him; the unrelenting sword makes no distinction between the
+worthy and unworthy;—and the brave, the virtuous du Plessis, may have
+fallen a victim in common with the most vulgar.</p>
+<p>These apprehensions had no sooner gained ground in her imagination,
+than she became the most disconsolate creature in the world. The abbess
+took advantage of her melancholy, as knowing the occasion of it, and began
+to represent, in the strongest terms, the instability of all human
+expectations:—you may easily see, my dear child, said she, that monsieur
+either no longer lives, or ceases to live for you:—young men are
+wavering, every new object attracts their wishes;—they are impatient for
+a time, but soon grow cool;—absence renders them forgetful of their vows
+and promises;—there is no real dependance on them;—fly therefore to that
+divine love which never can deceive you;—give yourself up to heaven, and
+you will soon be enabled to despise the fickle hopes of earth.</p>
+<p>Instead of saying any thing to comfort her, in this manner was she
+continually persecuted; and tho' it is impossible for any one to have less
+inclination to a monastic life than she had, yet the depression of her
+spirits, the firm belief she now should never see du Plessis more, the
+misfortune of her circumstances, joined to the artifices they made use of,
+and the repeated offers of accepting her without the usual sum paid on
+such occasions, might possibly at last have prevailed on her.—She was
+half convinced in her mind that it was the only asylum left to shield her
+from the wants and insults of the world; and the more she reflected on the
+changes, the perplexities, and vexation, of different kinds, the few years
+she yet had lived had presented her with, the more reason she found to
+acquiesce with the persuasions of the abbess. But heaven would not suffer
+the deceit practised on her to be crowned with success, and discovered it
+to her timely enough to prevent her from giving too much way to that
+despair, which alone could have prevailed with her to yield to their
+importunities.</p>
+<p>There was among the sisterhood a young lady called donna Leonora, who
+being one of many daughters of a family, more eminent for birth than
+riches, was compelled, as too many are, to become a nun, in order to
+prevent her marrying beneath her father's dignity. She had taken a great
+liking to Louisa from the moment she came into the convent, and a farther
+acquaintance ripened it into a sincere friendship. Tho' secluded from the
+world, the austere air of a monastery had no effect upon her, she still
+retained her former vivacity; and it was only in the conversations these
+two had toge whenever they could separate from the others, that Louisa
+found any cordial to revive her now almost sinking spirits.</p>
+<p>One day as she was ruminating on her melancholy affairs, this young nun
+came hastily into her chamber, and with a countenance that, before she
+spoke, denoted she had something very extraordinary to acquaint her
+with,—dear sister, cried she, I bring you the most surprising news, but
+such as will be my ruin if you take the least notice of receiving it from
+me; and perhaps your own, if you seem to be acquainted with it at all.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but Louisa gave her all the assurances she
+could desire of an inviolable secrecy; after which, know then, resumed
+this sweet-condition'd lady, that your lover, monsieur du Plessis, is not
+only living, but as faithful as your soul can wish, or as you once
+believed:—the cruelty of the abbess, and some of the sisterhood in the
+plot with her, have concealed the letters he has sent to you, in order to
+persuade you to become a nun:—I tremble to think of their hypocrisy and
+deceit:—but what, continued she, is not to be expected from bigotry and
+enthusiasm!—To increase the number of devotees they scruple nothing, and
+vainly imagine the means is sanctified by the end.</p>
+<p>Little is it in the power of words to express the astonishment Louisa
+was in to hear her speak in this manner; but as she had no room to doubt
+her sincerity, only asked by what means she had attained the knowledge of
+what the persons concerned, no doubt, intended to keep as much a secret as
+possible; on which the other satisfied her curiosity in these terms:</p>
+<p>To confess the truth to you, said she, I stole this afternoon into the
+chapel, in order to read a little book brought me the other day by one of
+my friends; as it treated on a subject not allowable in a convent, I
+thought that the most proper place to entertain myself with it; and was
+sitting down in one of the confessionals, when hearing the little door
+open from the gallery, I saw the abbess and sister Clara, who, you know,
+is her favourite and confidant, come in together, and as soon as they were
+entered, shut the door after them. I cannot say I had any curiosity to
+hear their discourse; but fearing to be suspected by them in my amusement,
+and not knowing what excuse to make for being there, if I were seen, I
+slid down, and lay close at the bottom of the confessional. They happened
+to place themselves very near me; and the abbess taking a letter out of
+her pocket, bad Clara read it, and tell her the substance of it as well as
+she could. I found it was in French, by some words which she was obliged
+to repeat over and over, before, not perfectly understanding the language,
+she could be able to find a proper interpretation of. The abbess, who has
+a little smattering of it herself, sometimes helped her out, and between
+them both I soon found it came from monsieur du Plessis, and contained the
+most tender and compassionate complaint of your unkindness in not
+answering his letter;—that the symptoms he had of approaching death were
+not half so severe to him as your refusing him a consolation he stood for
+much in need of;—that if you found him unworthy of your love, he was
+certainly so of your compassion; and concluded with the most earnest
+entreaty, you would suffer him to continue no longer in a suspence more
+cruel than a thousand deaths could be.</p>
+<p>Oh heaven! cried Louisa, bursting into tears, how ungrateful must he
+think me, and how can I return, as it deserves, so unexampled a constancy,
+ after such seeming proofs of my infidelity!—. Cruel, cruel, treacherous
+ abbess! pursued she; Is this the fruits of all your boasted
+ sanctity!—This the return to the confidence the generous du Plessis
+ reposed in you!—This your love and friendship to me!—Does heaven, to
+ increase the number of its votaries, require you to be false, perfidious,
+ and injurious to the world!</p>
+<p>She was proceeding in giving vent to the anguish of her soul in
+exclamations such as these; but Leonora begged she would moderate her
+grief, and for her sake, as much as possible, conceal the reasons she had
+for resentment. Louisa again promised she would do her utmost to keep them
+from thinking she even suspected they had played her false;—then cried,
+But tell me, my dear Leonora, were they not a little moved at the tender
+melancholy which, I perceive, ran thro' this epistle? Alas! my dear,
+replied the other, they have long since forgot those soft emotions which
+make us simpathize in the woes of love:—inflexible by the rigid rules of
+this place, and more by their own age, they rather looked with horror than
+pity on a tender inclination:—they had a long conversation together, the
+result of which was to spare nothing that might either persuade, or if
+that failed, compel you to take the order.</p>
+<p>It is not in their power to do the latter, interrupted Louisa; and this
+discovery of their baseness, more than ever, confirms me in the resolution
+never to consent.</p>
+<p>You know not what is in their power, said Leonora; they may make
+pretences for confining you here, which, as they are under no jurisdiction
+but the church, the church will allow justifiable:—indeed, Louisa,
+continued she, I should be loth to see you have recourse to force to get
+out of their hands which would only occasion you ill treatment:—to whom,
+alas, can you complain!—you are a stranger in this country, without any
+one friend to espouse your cause:—were even Du Plessis here in person, I
+know not, as they have taken it into their heads to keep you here, if all
+he could urge, either to the pope or confessory, would have any weight to
+oblige them to relinquish you. A convent is the securest prison in the
+world; and whenever any one comes into it, who by any particular endowment
+promises to be an ornament to the order, cannot, without great difficulty,
+disentangle themselves from the snares laid for them.—It is for this
+reason I have feared for you ever since your entrance; for tho' I should
+rejoice in so agreeable a companion, I know too well the miseries of an
+enforced attachment to wish you to be partaker of it.</p>
+<p>Louisa found too much reason in what she said, to doubt the misery of
+her condition;—she knew the great power of the church in all these
+countries where the roman-catholic religion is established, more
+especially in those places under the papal jurisdiction, and saw no way to
+avoid what was now more terrible to her than ever. Those reflections threw
+her into such agonies, that Leonora had much ado to keep her from falling
+into fits:—she conjured her again and again, never to betray what she had
+entrusted her with; assuring her, that if it were so much as guessed at,
+she should be exposed to the worst treatment, and punished as an enemy to
+the order of which she was a member. Louisa as often assured her that
+nothing should either tempt or provoke her to abuse that generous
+friendship she had testified for her; but as she was not able to command
+her countenance, tho' she could her words, she resolved to pretend herself
+indisposed and keep her bed, that she might be the less observed, or the
+change in her should seem rather the effects of ill health than any secret
+discontent.</p>
+<p>It was no sooner mentioned in the convent that she was out of order,
+than the abbess herself, as well as the whole sisterhood, came to her
+chamber, and shewed the greatest concern: the tender care they took of her
+would have made her think herself infinitely obliged to them, and perhaps
+gone a great way in engaging her continuance among them, had she not been
+apprized of their falshood in a point so little to be forgiven.</p>
+<p>So great an enemy was she to all deceit herself, that it was difficult
+for her to return the civilities they treated her with, as they might seem
+to deserve; but whatever omissions she was guilty of in this particular,
+were imputed to her disposition; and the whole convent continued to be
+extremely assiduous to recover her.</p>
+<p>During the time of her feigned illness, her thoughts were always
+employed on the means of getting away. Whenever Leonora and she were
+together, a hundred contrivances were formed, which seemed equally alike
+impracticable; but at length they hit upon one which had a promising
+aspect and Louisa, after some scruples, resolved to make trial of. It was
+this:</p>
+<p>As hypocrisy was made use of to detain her, hypocrisy was the only
+method by which she could hope to get her liberty:—pretending, therefore,
+to be all at once restored to her former health, she sent to entreat the
+abbess, and some other of the most zealous of the sisterhood to come into
+her chamber, where, as soon as they entered, they found her on her knees
+before the picture of the virgin, and seeming in an extacy of devotion:
+Yes, holy virgin, cried she, as if too much taken up to see who entered, I
+will obey your commands;—I will devote myself entirely to thee;—I will
+follow where thou callest me: thou, who hast restored me, shalt have the
+first fruits of my strength:—and oh that Lorretto were at a greater
+distance,—to the utmost extent of land and sea would I go to seek
+thee!—In uttering these ejaculations she prostrated herself on the
+floor;—then rising again, as transported in a manner out of herself,—I
+come,—I come, cried she;—still do I hear thy heavenly voice!</p>
+<p>In this fit of enthusiasm did she remain for above half an hour, and so
+well acted her part, that the abbess, who would not offer to interrupt
+her, believed it real, and was in little less agitation of spirit than
+Louisa pretended to be.</p>
+<p>At length seeming; to come to herself, she turned towards the company,
+as tho' she but just then discovered they were in the room; Oh, madam,
+said she to the abbess, how highly favoured have I been this blessed
+night!—The virgin has herself appeared to me, whether in a vision, or to
+my waking eyes, I cannot well determine; but sure I have been in such
+extacies, have felt such divine raptures, as no words can express!</p>
+<p>Oh my dear daughter! cried the abbess, how my soul kindles to behold
+this change in thee!—but tell me what said the holy virgin!</p>
+<p>She bad me wait on her at Lorretto, answered she, and gave me hopes of
+doing something wonderful in my favour:—I will therefore, with your
+permission, undertake a pilgrimage and at her shrine expiate the offences
+of my past life in tears of true contrition, and then return a pure and
+fearless partaker of the happiness you enjoy in an uninterrupted course of
+devotion:—oh! exclaimed she, exalting her voice, how do I detest and
+despise the vanities and follies of the world!—how hate myself for having
+been too much attached to them, and so long been cold and negligent of my
+only happiness!</p>
+<p>The abbess, and, after her, all the nuns that were present, embraced
+Louisa,—praised to the skies this miraculous conversion, as they termed
+it, and spared nothing to confirm the pious resolution she had taken.</p>
+<p>In fine, they consented to her pilgrimage with a satisfaction equal to
+what she felt in undertaking it,—they not in the least doubting but she
+would return to them as soon as she had fulfilled her devotions, and
+flattering themselves that the report of this miracle would do the
+greatest honour to their convent that it could possibly receive; and she,
+delighted with the thoughts of being at liberty to enquire after her dear
+du Plessis, and being freed from a dissimulation so irksome to her nature.</p>
+<p>Her pilgrim's habit, and a great crucifix to carry between her hands,
+with another at her girdle, and all the formalities of that garb being
+prepared, she set forward with the prayers and benedictions of the whole
+sisterhood, who told her, that they should be impatient till they saw her
+again, and expected great things from her at her return, which, in
+reality, they all did, except Leonora, who laughed heartily at the
+deception she had put upon them, and whispered in her ear as she gave her
+the last embrace, that she wished her a happy meeting with that saint she
+went in search of.</p>
+<p>To prevent all suspicion of her intention she left her cloaths, and
+every thing she had brought into the convent, under the care of the
+abbess, saying, that, at her return, she would have them disposed of, and
+the money given to the poor: but, unknown to any one except Leonora, she
+quilted some pieces of gold and valuable trinkets into her undergarment,
+as not doubting but she should have occasion for much more than, in
+effect, she was mistress of.</p>
+<p>When on her journey, the pleasure she felt at seeing herself out of the
+walls of the monastery, was very much abated by the uncertainty how she
+should proceed, or where direct her way: and indeed, let any one figure to
+themselves the condition she was in, and they will rather wonder she had
+courage to go on, than that she was sometimes daunted even to despair.—A
+young creature of little more than eighteen years old,—wholly
+unacquainted with fatigue,—delicate in her frame,—wandering alone on
+foot in the midst of a strange country,—ignorant of the road, or had she
+been acquainted with it, at a loss where to go to get any intelligence of
+what she sought, and even doubtful if the person she ran such risques to
+hear of, yet were in the world or not. The letter Leonora had informed her
+of, gave no account, at least that she could learn, either where he was,
+or whether there were any hopes of his recovery from that illness it
+mentioned; she had therefore every thing to dread, and little, very little
+to hope: yet did she not repent her having quitted the convent; and the
+desire of getting still farther from it, made her prosecute her journey
+with greater strength and vigour than could have been expected: her
+pilgrim's habit was not only a defence against any insults from persons
+she met on the road, but also attracted the respect, and engaged the
+civilities of every one.—As that country abounds with religious houses,
+she was not only lodged and fed without any expence, but received a piece
+of money at each of them she went to, so that her little stock, instead of
+being diminished, was considerably increased when she came to Lorretto,
+for thither, not to be false in every thing, she went; and being truly
+sorry for the hypocrisy which a sad necessity alone could have made her
+guilty of, paid her devotion with a sincere heart, tho' free from that
+enthusiasm and bigotry which is too much practised in convents.</p>
+<p>From Lorretto she crossed the country to Florence, every one being
+ready to direct a holy pilgrim on her way, and assist her with all things
+necessary. As she went very easy journeys, never exceeding four or five
+miles a day, she easily supported the fatigue; and had she been certain at
+last of seeing du Plessis, it would have been rather a pleasure to her;
+but her mind suffered much more than her body during this pilgrimage,
+which she continued in the same manner she had begun till she reached
+Leghorn, where a ship lying at anchor, and expecting to sail in a few days
+for Marseilles, she agreed to give a small matter for her passage, the
+sea-faring-men not paying altogether so much regard to her habit, as the
+land ones had done.</p>
+<p>No ill accident intervening, the vessel came safely into her desired
+port, and Louisa now found herself in the native country of the only
+person who engrossed her thoughts: as she had heard him say he was of
+Paris, she supposed that the most likely place to hear news of him, but
+was in some debate within herself whether she should continue to wear her
+pilgrim's habit, or provide herself with other cloaths at Marseilles. She
+was weary of this mendicant way of travelling, and could have been glad to
+have exchanged it for one more agreeable to the manner in which she had
+been accustomed; but then, when she considered how great a protection the
+appearance she made, had been from all those insults, to which a person of
+her sex and age must otherwise infallibly have been exposed in travelling
+alone, she resolved not to throw it off till she came to the place where
+she intended to take up her abode, at least for some time. Young as she
+was, she had well weighed what course to take in case du Plessis should
+either be dead, or, by some accident, removed where she could hear nothing
+more of him; and all countries and parts being now equal to her, as she
+must then be reduced once more to get her bread by her labour, she doubted
+not but to find encouragement for her industry as well in Paris as
+elsewhere.</p>
+<p>With this resolution, therefore, after laying one night at Marseilles,
+she proceeded on her way in the same fashion as she had done ever since
+she left Bolognia, and in about six weeks got safely to that great and
+opulent city, where she took up her lodging at a hotel, extremely
+fatigued, as it is easy to believe, having never even for one day ceased
+walking, but while she was on board the ship which brought her to
+Marseilles, for the space of eight months; a thing almost incredible, and
+what perhaps no woman, but herself, would have had courage to undertake,
+or resolution to perform, but was, in her circumstances, infinitely the
+most safe and expedient that prudence could suggest.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXIII.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Shews by what means Louisa came to the knowledge of her parents,
+with other occurrences</i>.</p>
+<p>The first thing she did on her arrival, was to send for proper persons
+to equip her in a manner that she might once more appear herself,
+resolving that till she could do so, not to be seen in the streets.</p>
+<p>While these things were preparing, she sent a person, whom the people
+of the house recommended to her, to the palace of the prince of Conti, not
+doubting but that some of the gentlemen belonging to his highness might
+give some intelligence where monsieur du Plessis was to be found; but the
+messenger returned without any other information, than that they knew him
+very well, but could give no directions in what part he was at present, he
+not having been seen in Paris for a long time.</p>
+<p>It is hard to say whether she most rejoiced or grieved at this account:
+she imagined that had he been dead they would not have been ignorant of
+it, therefore concluded him living to her infinite satisfaction; but then
+his absenting himself from the capital of the kingdom, and from the
+presence of a prince who had so much loved him, filled her with an
+adequate disquiet, as believing some very ill accident must have been the
+occasion:—she dispatched the same person afterwards to all the public
+places that she heard gentlemen frequented, but met not with the least
+success in her enquiries. It would prolong this narrative to a tedious
+length, should I attempt any description of what she felt in this
+situation, or the reflections she made on the odd circumstances of her
+life:—the greatness of her spirit, and the most perfect resignation to
+the divine will, however, made her support even this last and severest
+trial with fortitude and patience; and as soon as she had put herself into
+a convenient neat garb, but plain, befitting her condition, she went out
+with a design to take a private lodging, where she might live more cheaply
+than she could at the hotel, till providence should throw some person in
+the way that might recommend her either to work, or to teach young ladies
+music.</p>
+<p>She was wandering thro' several of the streets of Paris, without being
+able, as yet, to find such a chamber as she wanted, when a great shower of
+rain happening to fall, she stood up under the porch of a large house for
+shelter till it should be over, which it was not for a considerable time;
+and the street being very dirty, she returned to the hotel, intending to
+renew her search the next day: she had not been come in above half an
+hour, before the man of the house told her that a servant, in a very rich
+livery, who, he perceived, had followed her, and had asked many questions
+concerning her, was now returned, and desired to speak with her.</p>
+<p>As du Plessis was ever in her thoughts, a sudden rush of joy overflowed
+her heart, which seemed to her the presage of seeing him, tho' how he
+should imagine she was in Paris was a mystery:—but she gave herself not
+much time for reflection, before she ordered the man to be admitted.</p>
+<p>The manner of his approaching her was very respectful; but the message
+he had to deliver seemed of a contrary nature.—After having asked if her
+name was Louisa, and she answering that it was, I come, madam, said he,
+from a gentleman who saw you stand just now at the gate of a house in the
+Fauxbourg St. Germains, he commands me to tell you, that he has something
+of moment to acquaint you with, and desires you will permit me to call a
+chair, and attend you to his house, where he is impatient to receive you.</p>
+<p>What, indeed, could Louisa think of a person who should send for her in
+this manner?—all the late transport she was in, was immediately converted
+into disdain and vexation at being taken, as she had all the reason in the
+world to suppose, for one of those common creatures who prostitute their
+charms for bread.—</p>
+<p>Tell your master, said she, that by whatever accident he has learned my
+name, he is wholly ignorant of the character of the person he has sent you
+to:—that I am an entire stranger at Paris, and he must have mistaken me
+for some other, who, perhaps, I may have the misfortune to resemble, and
+may be also called as I am;—at least I am willing to think so, as the
+only excuse can be made for his offering this insult:—but go, continued
+she, with that pride which is natural to affronted virtue;—go, and
+convince him of his error;—and let me hear no more of it.</p>
+<p>It was in vain he assured her that his master was a person of the
+highest honour, and that he was not unknown to her. All he could say had
+not the least effect unless to enflame her more; when, after asking his
+name, the fellow told her he was forbid to reveal it, but that he was
+confident she would not deny having been acquainted with him when once she
+saw him.</p>
+<p>I shall neither own the one, cried she, nor consent to the other; then
+bid him a second time be gone, with an air which shewed she was not to be
+prevailed upon to listen to his arguments.</p>
+<p>This man had no sooner left her than she fell into a deep study, from
+which a sudden thought made her immediately start:—the count de Bellfleur
+came into her head; and she was certain it could be no other than that
+cruel persecutor of her virtue, that her ill fate had once more thrown in
+her way.—As she knew very well, by what he had done, that he was of a
+disposition to scruple nothing for the attainment of his wishes, she
+trembled for the consequences of his discovering where she was.—The only
+way she could think on to avoid the dangers she might be exposed to on his
+account, was to draw up a petition to the prince of Conti, acquainting him
+that she was the person who was near suffering so much from the ill
+designs he had on her at Padua, when so generously referred by monsieur du
+Plessis, and to entreat his highness's protection against any attempts he
+might be safe enough to make.</p>
+<p>She was just sitting down, in order to form a remonstrance of this
+kind, when a chariot and six stopping at the door, she was informed the
+gentleman who had sent to her was come in person, and that they knew it
+was the same by the livery.—Louisa run hastily to the window and saw a
+person alight, whom, by the bulk and stature, she knew could not be the
+count she so much dreaded, this having much the advantage of the other in
+both. Somewhat reassured by this sight, she ordered the master of the
+hotel to desire him to walk into a parlour, and let him know she would
+attend him there.</p>
+<p>As she saw not the face of this visitor, she could not be certain
+whether it were not some of those she had been acquainted with at Venice,
+who having, by accident, seen her at Paris, might, according to the
+freedom of the French nation, take the liberty of visiting her;—but
+whoever it were, or on what score soever brought, she thought it best to
+receive him in a place where, in case of any ill usage, she might readily
+have assistance.</p>
+<p>The master of the hotel perceiving her scruples, readily did as he was
+ordered, and Louisa having desired that he, or some of his people, would
+be within call, went down to receive this unknown gent, tho' not without
+emotions, which at that moment she knew not how to account for.</p>
+<p>But soon after she was seized with infinitely greater, when, entering
+the parlour, she found it was no other than Dorilaus who had given her
+this anxiety.—Surprize at the sight of a person whom, of all the world,
+she could least have expected in that place, made her at first start back;
+and conscious shame for having, as she thought, so ill rewarded his
+goodness, mixed with a certain awe which she had for no other person but
+himself, occasioned such a trembling, as rendered her unable either to
+retire or move forward to salute him, as she otherwise would have done.</p>
+<p>He saw the confusion she was in, and willing to give it an immediate
+relief, ran to her, and taking her in his arms,—my dear, dear child, said
+he, am I so happy to see thee once more!—Oh! sir, returned she
+disengaging herself from his embrace, and falling at his feet!—How can I
+look upon you after having flown from your protection, and given you such
+cause to think me the most ungrateful creature in the world!</p>
+<p>It was heaven, answered he, that inspired you with that abhorrence of
+my offers, which, had you accepted, we must both have been eternally
+undone!—You are my daughter, Louisa! pursued he, my own natural
+daughter!—Rise then, and take a father's blessing.</p>
+<p>All that can be said of astonishment would be far short of what she
+felt at these words:—the happiness seemed so great she could not think
+it real, tho' uttered from mouth she knew unaccustomed to deceit:—a
+hundred times, without giving him leave to satisfy her doubts, did she cry
+out, My father!—my father!—my real father!—How can it be!—Is there a
+possibility that Louisa owes her being to Dorilaus!</p>
+<p>Yes, my Louisa, answered he, and flatter myself, by what I have
+observed of your disposition, you have done nothing, since our parting,
+that might prevent my glorying in being the parent of such a child.</p>
+<p>The hurry of spirit she was in, prevented her from taking notice of
+these last words, or at least from making any answer to them, and she
+still continued crying out,—Dorilaus, my father!—Good heaven! may I
+believe I am so blessed?—Who then is my mother!—Wherefore have I been so
+long ignorant of what I was!—And how is the joyful secret at last
+revealed!</p>
+<p>All these things you shall be fully informed of, answered he; in the
+mean time be satisfied I do not deceive you, and am indeed your father:
+transported to find my long lost child, whom I myself knew not was so till
+I believed her gone for ever;—a thousand times I have wished both you and
+Horatio were my children, but little suspected you were so, till after his
+too eager ambition deprived me of him, and my mistaken love drove you to
+seek a refuge among strangers.</p>
+<p>Tears of joy and tenderness now bedewed the faces of both father and
+daughter:—silence for some moments succeeded the late acclamations; but
+Dorilaus at length finding her fully convinced she was as happy as he said
+she was, and entirely freed from all those apprehensions which had
+occasioned her flying from him, told her he was settled in Paris; that he
+lived just opposite to the house where she had stood up on account of the
+shower, and happening to be at one of his windows immediately knew her;
+that he sent a servant after her, who had enquired how long she had been
+arrived, and in what manner she came; that he had sent for her with no
+other intent then to make trial how she would resent it, and was
+transported to find her answer such as he hoped and had expected from
+her:—he added, that he had all the anxiety of a father to hear by what
+means she had been supported, and the motive which induced her to travel
+in the habit of a pilgrim, as the matter of the hotel had informed his
+servant; but that he would defer his satisfaction till she should be in a
+place more becoming his daughter.</p>
+<p>On concluding these words he called for the master of the hotel, and
+having defrayed what little expences she had been at since her coming
+there, took her by the hand and led her to his chariot, which soon brought
+them to a magnificent, house, and furnished in a manner answerable to the
+birth and fortune of the owner.</p>
+<p>Louisa had all this time seemed like one in a dream:—she had ever
+loved Dorilaus with a filial affection; and to find herself really his
+daughter, to be snatched at once from all those cares which attend penury,
+when accompanied with virtue, and an abhorrence of entering into measures
+inconsistent with the strictest honour, to be relieved from every want,
+and in a station which commanded respect and homage, was such a surcharge
+of felicity, that she was less able to support than all the fatigues she
+had gone thro'—Surprize and joy made her appear more dull and stupid than
+she had ever been in her whole life before; and Dorilaus was obliged to
+repeat all he had said over and over again, to bring her into her usual
+composedness, and enable her to give him the satisfaction he required.</p>
+<p>But as soon as she had, by degrees, recollected herself, she modestly
+related all that had happened to her from the time she left him;—the
+methods by which she endeavoured to earn her bread,—the insults she was
+exposed to at mrs. C—l—ge's;—the way she came acquainted with
+Melanthe;—the kindness shown her by that lady;—their travels
+together;—the base stratagem made use of by count de Bellfleur to ruin
+her with that lady—the honourable position monsieur du Plessis had
+professed for her;—the seasonable assistance he had given her, in that
+iminent danger she was in from the count's unlawful designs upon her;—his
+placing her afterwards in the monastry,—the treachery of the abbess;—the
+artifice she had been obliged to make use of to get out of the
+nunnery;—her pilgrimage;—in fine, concealed no part of her adventures,
+only that which related to the passion she had for du Plessis, which she
+endeavoured, as much as she could, to disguise, under the names of
+gratitude for the obligations he had conferred upon her, and admiration of
+his virtue, so different from what she had found in others who had
+addressed her.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, however, easily perceived the tenderness with which she was
+agitated on the account of that young gentleman, but he would not excite
+her blushes by taking any notice of it, especially as he found nothing to
+condemn in it, and had observed, throughout the course of her whole
+narrative, she had behaved on other occasions with a discretion far above
+her years, he was far from wronging her, by suspecting she had swerved
+from it in this.</p>
+<p>But when he heard the vast journey she had come on foot, he was in the
+utmost amazement at her fortitude, and told her he was resolved to keep
+her pilgrim's habit as a relique, to preserve to after-ages the memory of
+an adventure, which had really something more marvellous in it than many
+set down as miracles.</p>
+<p>And now having fully gratified his own curiosity in all he wanted to be
+informed of, he thought proper to case the impatience she was in to know
+the history of her birth, and on what occasion it had been so long
+concealed, which he did in these or the like words:</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXIV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The history of Dorilaus and Matilda, with other circumstances very
+important to Louisa</i>.</p>
+<p>You know, said he, that I am descended of one of the most illustrious
+families in England, tho', by some imprudencies on the one side, and
+injustice on the other, my claim was set aside, and I deprived of that
+title which my ancestors for a long succession of years had enjoyed, so
+that the estate I am in possession of, was derived to me in right of my
+mother, who was an heiress. It is indeed sufficient to have given me a
+pretence to any lady I should have made choice on, and to provide for what
+children I might have had by her: but the pride of blood being not abated
+in me by being cut off from my birthright, inspired me with an
+unconquerable aversion to marriage, since I could not bequeath to my
+posterity that dignity I ought to have enjoyed myself:—I resolved
+therefore to live single, and that the misfortune of my family should dye
+with myself.</p>
+<p>In my younger years I went to travel, as well for improvement, as to
+alleviate that discontent which was occasioned by the sight of another in
+possession of what I thought was my due.—Having made the tour of Europe,
+I took France again in my way home:—the gallantry and good breeding of
+these people very much attached me to them; but what chiefly engaged my
+continuance here much longer than I had done in any other part, was an
+acquaintance I had made with a lady called Matilda: she was of a very good
+family in England, was sent to a monastry merely for the sake of
+well-grounding her in a religion, the free exercise of which is not
+allowed at home, and to seclude her from settling her affections on any
+other than the person she was destined to by the will of her parents, and
+to whom she had been contracted in her infancy:—she was extremely young,
+and beautiful as an angel; and the knowledge she was pre-engaged, could
+not hinder me from loving her, any more than the declarations I made in
+her hearing against marriage, could the grateful returns she was pleased
+to make me:—in fine, the mutual inclination we had for each other, as it
+rendered us deaf to all suggestions but that of gratifying it, so it also
+inspired us with ingenuity to surmount all the difficulties that were
+between our wishes and the end of them.—Tho' a pensioner in a monastry,
+and very closely observed, by the help of a confidant she frequently got
+out, and many nights we passed together;—till some business relating to
+my estate at length calling me away, we were obliged to part, which we
+could not do without testifying a great deal of concern on both
+sides:—mine was truly sincere at that time, and I have reason to believe
+her's was no less so; but absence easily wears out the impressions of
+youth: as I never expected to see her any more, I endeavoured not to
+preserve a remembrance which would only have given me disquiet, and, to
+confess the truth, soon forgot both the pleasure and the pain I had
+experienced in this, as well as some other little sallies of my unthinking
+youth.</p>
+<p>Many years passed over without my ever hearing any thing of her; and it
+was some months after I received your letter from Aix-la-Chappelle, that
+the post brought me one from Ireland: having no correspondence in that
+country, I was a little surprized, but much more when I opened it and
+found it contained these words:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To</i> DORILAUS.<br/>
+<br/>
+SIR,<br/>
+<br/>
+"This comes to make a request, which I<br/>
+know not if the acquaintance we had<br/>
+together in the early part of both our lives,<br/>
+would be sufficient to apologize for the trouble<br/>
+you must take in complying with it:—permit<br/>
+me therefore to acquaint you, that I have long<br/>
+laboured under an indisposition which my physicians<br/>
+assure me is incurable, and under which<br/>
+I must inevitably sink in a short time; but<br/>
+whatever they say, I know it is impossible<br/>
+for me to leave the world without imparting<br/>
+to you a secret wholly improper to be entrusted<br/>
+in a letter, but is of the utmost importance<br/>
+to those concerned in it, of whom yourself<br/>
+is the principal:—be assured it regards<br/>
+your honour, your conscience, your justice, as<br/>
+well as the eternal peace of her who conjures<br/>
+you, with the utmost earnestness, to come immediately<br/>
+on the receipt of this to the castle of<br/>
+M——e, in the north of Ireland, where, if<br/>
+you arrive time enough, you will be surprized,<br/>
+tho' I flatter myself not disagreeably so, with<br/>
+the unravelling a most mysterious Event.<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Yours, once known by the name of</i> MATILDA,<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>now</i><br/>
+<br/>
+M——E."</p>
+<p>I will not repeat to you, my dear Louisa, continued Dorilaus, the
+strange perplexity of ideas that run thro' my mind after having read this
+letter:—I was very far from guessing at the real motive of this
+invitation; which, however, as I once had a regard for that lady, I soon
+determined to obey; and having left the care of my house to a relation of
+mine by the mother's side, I went directly for Ireland; but when I came
+there, was a little embarrassed in my mind what excuse I should make to
+her husband for my visit.—Before I ventured to the castle, I made a
+thorough enquiry after the character of this young lady, and in what
+manner she lived with her lord. Never did I hear a person more universally
+spoke well of:—the poor adored her charity, affability, and condescending
+sweetness of disposition:—the rich admired her wit, her virtue, and good
+breeding:—her beauty, tho' allowed inferior to few of her sex, was the
+least qualification that seemed deserving praise:—to add to all this,
+they told me she was a pattern of conjugal affection, and the best of
+mothers to a numerous race of Children;—that her lord had all the value
+he ought to have for so amiable a wife, and that no wedded pair ever lived
+together in greater harmony; and it was with the utmost concern, whoever I
+spoke to on this affair concluded what they related of her with saying,
+that so excellent an example of all that was valuable in womankind would
+shortly be taken from them;—that she had long, with an unexampled
+patience, lingered under a severe illness which every day threatened
+dissolution.</p>
+<p>These accounts made me hesitate no farther:—I went boldly to the
+castle, asked to speak with the lord M——e, who received me with a
+politeness befitting his quality: I told him that my curiosity of seeing
+foreign countries had brought me to Ireland, and being in my tour thro'
+those parts, I took the liberty of calling at his seat, having formerly
+had the honour of being known to his lady when at her father's house, and
+whom I now heard, to my great concern, was indisposed, otherwise have been
+glad to pay my respects to her. The nobleman answered, with tears in his
+eyes, that she was indeed in a condition such as give no hope of her
+recovery, but that she sometimes saw company, tho' obliged to receive them
+in bed, having lost the use of her limbs, and would perhaps be glad of the
+visit of a person she had known so long.</p>
+<p>On this I told him my name, which he immediately sent in; and her woman
+not long after came from her to let me know she would admit me. My lord
+went in with me; and to countenance what I said, I accosted her with the
+freedom of a person who had been acquainted when children, spoke of her
+father as of a gentleman who had favoured me with his good-will, tho', in
+reality, I had never seen him in my life, but remembered well enough what
+she had mentioned to me concerning him, and some others of her family, to
+talk as if I had been intimate among them. I could perceive she was very
+well pleased with the method I had taken of introducing myself; and, to
+prevent any suspicion that I had any other business with her than to pay
+my compliments, made my visit very short that day, not doubting but she
+would of herself contrive some means of entertaining me without witnesses,
+as she easily found her lord had desired I would make the castle my home
+while I stayed in that part of the country.</p>
+<p>I was not deceived; the next morning having been told her lord was
+engaged with his steward, she sent for me, and making some pretence for
+getting rid of her woman, she plucked a paper from under her pillow, and
+putting it into my hand,—in that, said, you will find the secret I
+mentioned in my letter;—suspect not the veracity of it, I conjure you,
+nor love the unfortunate Horatio and Louisa less for their being mine.</p>
+<p>I cannot express the confusion I was in, continued Dorilaus, at her
+mentioning you and your brother, but I had no opportunity of asking any
+questions:—her woman that instant returned, after which I stayed but a
+short time, being impatient to examine the contents, which, as near as I
+can remember, were to this purpose:<br/>
+<br/>
+"You were scarce out of France before I<br/>
+discovered our amour had produced such<br/>
+consequences as, had my too fond passion given<br/>
+me leave to think of, I never should have hazarded:—I<br/>
+will not repeat the distraction I<br/>
+was in;—you may easily judge of it:—I<br/>
+communicated the misfortune to my nurse,<br/>
+who you know I told you went from England<br/>
+with me, and has often brought you messages<br/>
+from the convent:—the faithful creature did<br/>
+her utmost to console me for an evil which was<br/>
+without a remedy:—to complete my confusion,<br/>
+my father commanded me home; my lord<br/>
+M——e was returned from his travels:—we<br/>
+were both of an age to marry; and it<br/>
+was resolved, by our parents, no longer to<br/>
+defer the completion of an affair long before<br/>
+agreed upon.—I was ready to lay violent hands<br/>
+on myself, since there seemed no way to conceal<br/>
+my shame; but my good nurse having set<br/>
+all her wits to work for me, found out an expedient<br/>
+which served me, when I could think<br/>
+of nothing for myself.—She bid me be of<br/>
+comfort; that she thought being sent for home<br/>
+was the luckiest thing that could have happened,<br/>
+since nothing could be so bad as to have my<br/>
+pregnancy discovered in the convent, as it<br/>
+infallibly must have been had I stayed a very little<br/>
+time longer: she also assured me she would<br/>
+contrive it so, as to keep the thing a secret<br/>
+from all the world.—I found afterwards she<br/>
+did not deceive me by vain promises.—We<br/>
+left Paris, according to my father's order, and<br/>
+came by easy journeys, befitting my condition,<br/>
+to Calais, and embarked on board the packet for<br/>
+Dover; but then, instead of taking coach for London,<br/>
+hired a chariot, and went cross the country<br/>
+to a little village, where a kinswoman of my<br/>
+nurse's lived.—With these people I remained<br/>
+till Horatio and Louisa came into the world:—I<br/>
+could have had them nursed at that place, but<br/>
+I feared some discovery thro' the miscarriage of<br/>
+letters, which often happens, and which could<br/>
+not have been avoided being sent on such occasions;—so<br/>
+we contrived together that my<br/>
+good confident and adviser should carry them<br/>
+to your house, and commit the care of them<br/>
+to you, who, equal with myself, had a right to<br/>
+it:—she found means, by bribing a man that<br/>
+worked under your gardener, to convey them<br/>
+where I afterwards heard you found and received<br/>
+them as I could wish, and becoming the<br/>
+generosity of your nature.—I then took coach<br/>
+for London, pretending, at my arrival, that I<br/>
+had been delayed by sickness, and to excuse my<br/>
+nurse's absence, said she had caught the fever<br/>
+of me;—so no farther enquiry was made, and<br/>
+I soon after was married to a man whose worth<br/>
+is well deserving of a better wife, tho' I have<br/>
+endeavoured to attone for my unknown transgression<br/>
+by every act of duty in my power:—nurse<br/>
+stayed long enough in your part of the<br/>
+world to be able to bring me an account how<br/>
+the children were disposed of.—That I never<br/>
+gave you an account they were your own, was<br/>
+occasioned by two reasons, first, the danger of<br/>
+entrusting such a thing by the post, my nurse<br/>
+soon after dying; and secondly, because, as I<br/>
+was a wife, I thought it unbecoming of me to<br/>
+remind you of a passage I was willing to forget<br/>
+myself.—A long sickness has put other thoughts<br/>
+into my head, and inspired me with a tenderness<br/>
+for those unhappy babes, which the shame<br/>
+of being their mother hitherto deprived them<br/>
+of.—I hear, with pleasure, that you are not<br/>
+married, and are therefore at full liberty to<br/>
+make some provision for them, if they are yet<br/>
+living, that may alleviate the misfortune of<br/>
+their birth. Farewell; if I obtain this first and<br/>
+last request, I shall dye well satisfied."<br/>
+<br/>
+"<i>P.S.</i> Burn this paper, I conjure you, the moment<br/>
+you have read it; but lay the contents<br/>
+of it up in your heart never to be forgotten."</p>
+<p>I now no longer wondered, pursued Dorilaus, at that impulse I had to
+love you;—I found it the simpathy of nature, and adored the divine
+power.—After having well fixed in my mind all the particulars of this
+amazing secret, I performed her injunction, and committed it to the
+flames: I had opportunity enough to inform her in what manner Horatio had
+disposed of himself, and let her know you were gone with a lady on her
+travels: I concealed indeed the motive, fearing to give her any occasion
+of reproaching herself for having so long concealed what my ignorance of
+might have involved us all in guilt and ruin.</p>
+<p>I stayed some few days at the castle, and then took my leave: she said
+many tender things at parting concerning you, and seemed well satisfied
+with the assurances I gave her of making the same provision for you, as I
+must have done had the ceremony of the church obliged me to it. This
+seemed indeed the only thing for which she lived, and, I was informed,
+died in a few days after.</p>
+<p>At my return to England I renewed my endeavours to discover where you
+were, but could hear nothing since you wrote from Aix-la-Chappelle, and
+was equally troubled that I had received no letters from your brother.—I
+doubted not but he had fallen in the battle, and mourned him as
+lost;—till an old servant perceiving the melancholy I was in, acquainted
+me that several letters had been left at my house by the post during my
+absence, but that the kinsman I had left to take care of my affairs had
+secreted them, jealous, no doubt, of the fondness I have expressed for
+him.—This so enraged me, when on examination I had too much reason to be
+assured of this treachery, that I turned my whole estate into ready money,
+and resolved to quit England for ever, and pass my life here, this being a
+country I always loved, and had many reasons to dislike my own.</p>
+<p>Here I soon heard news of my Horatio, and such as filled me with a
+pleasure, which wanted nothing of being complete but the presence of my
+dear Louisa to partake of it.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus then went on, and acquainted her with the particulars of
+Horatio's story, as he had learned it from the baron de Palfoy, with whom
+he now was very intimate; but as the reader is sufficiently informed of
+those transactions, it would be needless to repeat them; so I shall only
+say that Dorilaus arrived in France in a short time after Horatio had left
+it to enter into the service of the king of Sweden, and had wrote that
+letter, inserted in the eighteenth chapter, in order to engage that young
+warrior to return, some little time before his meeting with Louisa.</p>
+<p>Nothing now was wanting to the contentment of this tender father but
+the presence of Horatio, which he was every day expecting, when, instead
+of himself, those letters from him arrived which contained his resolution
+of remaining with Charles XII. till the conquests he was in pursuit of
+should be accomplished.</p>
+<p>This was some matter of affliction to Dorilaus, tho' in his heart he
+could not but approve those principles of honour which detained
+him.—Neither the baron de Palfoy, nor Charlotta herself, could say he
+could well have acted otherwise, and used their utmost endeavours to
+comfort a father in his anxieties for the safety of so valuable a son.</p>
+<p>Louisa was also very much troubled at being disappointed in her hope of
+embracing a brother, whom she had ever dearly loved, and was now more
+precious to her than ever, by the proofs she had heard he had given of his
+courage and his virtue; but she had another secret and more poignant grief
+that preyed upon her soul, and could scarce receive any addition from
+ought beside:—she had been now near two months in Paris, yet could hear
+nothing of monsieur du Plessis, but that, by the death of his father, a
+large estate had devolved upon him, which he had never come to claim, or
+had been at Paris for about eighteen months, so that she had all the
+reason in the world to believe he was no more. This threw her into a
+melancholy, which was so much the more severe as she endeavoured to
+conceal it:—she made use of all her efforts to support the loss of a
+person she so much loved, and who proved himself so deserving of that
+love:—she represented to herself that being relieved from all the snares
+and miseries of an indigent life, raised from an obscurity which had given
+her many bitter pangs, to a station equal to her wishes, and under the
+care of the most indulgent and best of fathers, she ought not to repine,
+but bless the bounty of heaven, who had bestowed on her so many blessings,
+and with-held only one she could have asked.—These, I say, were the
+dictates of reason and religion; but the tender passion was not always to
+be silenced by them, and whenever she was alone, the tears, in spight of
+herself, would flow, and she, without even knowing she did so, cry out, Oh
+du Plessis, wherefore do I live since thou art dead!</p>
+<p>Among the many acquaintance she soon contracted at Paris, there was
+none she so much esteemed, both on the account of her own merit, and the
+regard she had for Horatio, as mademoiselle de Palfoy. In this young
+lady's society did she find more charms for her grief than in that of any
+other; and the other truly loving her, not only because she found nothing
+more worthy of being loved, but because she was the sister of Horatio,
+they were very seldom asunder.</p>
+<p>Louisa was one day at the baron's, enjoying that satisfaction which the
+conversation of his beautiful daughter never failed to afford, when word
+was brought that madam, the countess d'Espargnes, was come to visit
+her.—Mademoiselle Charlotta ran to receive her with a great deal of joy,
+she being a lady she very much regarded, and who she had not seen of a
+long time.</p>
+<p>She immediately returned, leading a lady in deep mourning, who seemed
+not to be above five-and-twenty, was extremely handsome, and had beside
+something in her air that attached Louisa at first sight. Mademoiselle
+Charlotta presented her to the countess, saying at the same time, see,
+madam, the only rival you have in my esteem.</p>
+<p>You do well to give me one, replied the countess, who looks as if she
+would make me love her as well as you, and so I should be even with you.
+With these words she opened her arms to embrace Louisa, who returned the
+compliment with equal politeness.</p>
+<p>When they were seated, mademoiselle Charlotta began to express the
+pleasure she had in seeing her in Paris; on which the countess told her,
+that the affair she came upon was so disagreeable, that nothing but the
+happiness of enjoying her company, while she stayed, could attone for it.
+You know, my dear, continued madam d'Espargnes, I was always an enemy to
+any thing that had the face of business, yet am I now, against my will,
+involved in it by as odd an adventure as perhaps you ever heard.</p>
+<p>Charlotta testifying some desire to be informed of what nature, the
+other immediately satisfied her curiosity in this manner:</p>
+<p>You know, said she, that on the late death of my father, his estate
+devolved on my brother, an officer in those troops in Italy commanded by
+the prince of Conti:—some wounds, which were looked upon as extremely
+dangerous, obliged him, when the campaign was over, to continue in his
+winter quarters;—on which he sent to monsieur the count to take
+possession in his name; this was done; but an intricate affair relating to
+certain sums lodged in a person's hand, and to be brought before the
+parliament of Paris, could not be decided without the presence either of
+him or myself who had been witness of the transaction.—I was extremely
+loth to take so long a journey, being then in very ill health; and hearing
+he was recovered, delayed it, as we then expected him in person:—I sent a
+special messenger, however, in order to hasten his return;—but instead of
+complying with my desires, I received a letter from him, acquainting me
+that a business of more moment to him than any thing in my power to guess
+at, required his presence in another place, and insisted, by all the
+tenderness which had ever been between us, that I would take on myself the
+management of this affair:—to enable me the better to do it, he sent me a
+deed of trust to act as I should find it most expedient.</p>
+<p>As he did not let me into the secret of what motives detained him at so
+critical a juncture, I was at first very much surprized; but on asking
+some questions of the messenger I had sent to him, I soon discovered what
+it was. He told me that on his arrival, he found my brother had left his
+quarters and was gone to Bolognia, on which he followed and overtook him
+there;—that he appeared in the utmost discontent, and was just preparing
+to proceed to Leghorn, but did not mention to him any more than he did in
+his letter to me, what inducement he had to this journey:—his servant,
+however, told him privately, that the mystery was this:—That being
+passionately in love with a young English lady, whom he had placed in a
+monastery at Bolognia, and expected to find there at his return, she had
+in his absence departed, without having acquainted him with her design;
+and that supposing she was gone for England, and unable to live without
+her, his intention was to take shipping for that country, and make use of
+his utmost efforts to find her out.</p>
+<p>I must confess, pursued the beautiful countess, this piece of quixotism
+very much veved me:—I thought his friends in France deserved more from
+him than to be neglected for one who fled from him, and who, as the man
+said, he knew not whether he should be able ever to see again. I resolved,
+however, to comply with his desires, and came immediately to Paris; but
+heaven has shewed him how little it approves his giving me this
+unnecessary trouble, for this morning I received a letter from him, that
+meeting with robbers in his way, they had taken from him all his money and
+bills of exchange, besides wounding him in several places, so that he
+cannot proceed on his journey till his hurts, which it seems are not
+dangerous, are cured, and he has fresh remittances from hence.</p>
+<p>With what emotions the heart of Louisa was agitated during the latter
+part of this little narrative, a sensible reader may easily conceive: from
+the first mention of Bolognia, where there was no other English pensioner
+than herself, she knew it must be no other than her dear du Plessis who
+was in search for her abroad, while she was vainly hoping to find him at
+home:—every circumstance rendered this belief more certain; and surprize
+and joy worked so strongly in her, that fearing the effects would be
+visible, she rose up and withdrew to a window. Mademoiselle Charlotta, who
+knew she could not be capable of such an act of unpoliteness, without
+being compelled to it, asked if she were not well:—on which Louisa
+entreated pardon, but owned a sudden faintness had come over her spirits,
+so that she was obliged to be rude in order to prevent being troublesome.</p>
+<p>As mademoiselle Charlotta knew nothing of her story, she had no farther
+thought about it than of some little qualm, which frequently happens when
+young ladies are too closely laced, and she seeming perfectly recovered
+from, the conversation was renewed on the same subject it had turned upon
+before this interruption; and the name of monsieur du Plessis being often
+mentioned, confirmed Louisa, if before she could have had the least
+remains of doubt, that it was her lover who, neglectful of his own
+affairs, and the remonstrances of his expecting friends, was about to
+range in search of one who, he imagined, was ungrateful both to his love
+and friendship.</p>
+<p>After having listened, with the utmost attention, to all the countess
+said of him, and other matters becoming the topic of discourse, she took
+her leave, in order to reflect alone what she ought to do in this affair.</p>
+<p>She debated not long within herself before she resolved to write to
+him, and prevent the unprofitable journey he was about to take; and having
+heard, by madam d'Espargnes, the name of the village where he was obliged
+to wait, both for the recovery of his wounds and for remittances for his
+expences, she wrote to him in the following terms:<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>To monsieur</i> DU PLESSIS.<br/>
+<br/>
+"I should ill return the proofs I have received<br/>
+of your generous disinterested friendship,<br/>
+to delay one moment that I had it in my power,<br/>
+in endeavouring to convince you that it was a<br/>
+quite contrary motive than ingratitude to you,<br/>
+that carried me from Bolognia:—but the story<br/>
+is too long for the compass of a letter; when<br/>
+you know it, you will, perhaps, own this action,<br/>
+whatever you may now think of it, merits<br/>
+more, than any thing I could have done, your<br/>
+approbation:—this seeming riddle will be easily<br/>
+expounded, if, on the recovery of your<br/>
+wounds, you repair immediately to Paris, where<br/>
+you will find<br/>
+<br/>
+<i>Your much obliged</i>,<br/>
+<br/>
+LOUISA."</p>
+<p>Having finished this little billet, a scruple rose in her head, that
+being now under the care of a father, she ought not to do any thing of
+this nature without his permission:—she had already told him how greatly
+she had been indebted to du Plessis for his honourable passion, but had
+not mentioned the least tittle of the tender impressions it had made on
+her; and she so lately knew him to be her father, that she was ashamed to
+make him the confidant of an affair of this nature, but then, when she
+considered the quality of du Plessis, which she was now confirmed of, and
+the sense Dorilaus testified he had of his behaviour to her while he
+believed her so infinitely his inferior, made her resolve to drain her
+modesty so far as to inform him all.</p>
+<p>She began by relating her accidental meeting with madam, the countess
+d'Espargnes and the conversation that passed at mademoiselle de Palfoy's,
+and then, tho' not without immoderate blushes, shewed him what she had
+wrote, and beseeched him to let her know whether it would be consistent
+with a virgin's modesty, and also agreeable to his pleasure, that she gave
+this demonstration of her gratitude for the favours she had received from
+this young gentleman.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus was charmed with this proof of her duty and respect, and told
+her, that he was so far from disapproving what she had wrote, that had she
+omitted it, or said less than she did, he should have looked upon her as
+unworthy of so perfect a passion as that which monsieur du Plessis on all
+occasions, testified for her:—that, in his opinion, she owed him more
+than she could ever pay; and that it should be his endeavour to shew he
+had not placed his affections on the daughter of one who knew not how to
+set a just value on merit such as his:—he made her also add a postscript
+to the letter, to give a direction in what part of Paris he might find her
+on his arrival; but Louisa would by no means give the least hint of the
+alteration in her circumstances, not that she wanted any farther proofs of
+his sincerity, but that she reserved the pleasure of so agreeable a
+surprize to their meeting. This letter was dispatched immediately, to the
+end he might receive it, at least, as soon as that from his sister with
+the expected remittances.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXV.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>Monsieur du Plessis arrives at Paris: his reception from Dorilaus
+and Louisa: the marriage of these lovers agreed upon</i>.</p>
+<p>The innocent pleasure Louisa felt in picturing to herself the extacy
+which du Plessis would be in at the receipt of her letter, was not a
+flattering idea:—to know she was in Paris, where, in all probability, she
+had come to seek him, and to have the intelligence of it from herself, had
+all the effect on him that the most raptured fancy can invent.</p>
+<p>His orders to madam d'Espargnes being punctually complied with, his
+bills of exchange also came soon after to hand; and the little hurts he
+had received from the robbers, as well as those of his mind, being
+perfectly healed, he set out with a lover's expedition, and arrived in
+Paris to the pleasing surprize of a sister who tenderly loved him, and
+expected not this satisfaction of a long time.</p>
+<p>He took but one night's repose before he enquired concerning Dorilaus,
+and was told that he was a person of quality in England; but, on some
+disgust he had received in his native country, was come to settle in
+France. As Louisa was extremely admired, they told him also that he had a
+very beautiful daughter, of whom he was extremely fond. This last
+information gave not a little ease to the mind of him who heard it, and
+dissipated those apprehensions which the high character they gave of
+Dorilaus had, in spite of himself, excited in him: he now imagined that as
+they were English, his Louisa might possibly have been acquainted with the
+daughter of this gentleman in their own country, and meeting her at Paris,
+might have put herself under her protection.</p>
+<p>Full of those impatiencies which are inseparable from a sincere
+passion, he borrowed his sister's chariot, and went to the Fauxbourg St.
+Germains; and being told one of the best houses in the place was that of
+Dorilaus, he asked for mademoiselle Louisa, on which he was desired to
+alight, and shewed into a handsome parlour while a servant went in to
+inform her: after this, he was ushered up stairs into a room, the
+furniture of which shewed the elegance of the owner's taste; but
+accustomed to every thing that was great and magnificent, the gilded
+scenes, the rich tapestry, the pictures, had no effect on him, till
+casting his eyes on one that hung over the chimney, he found the exact
+resemblance of the dear object never absent from his heart.—It was indeed
+the picture of Louisa, which her father, soon after her arrival, had
+caused to be drawn by one of the best painters at that time in Paris. This
+sight gave him a double pleasure, because it, in some measure, anticipated
+that of the original, and also convinced him that she was not indifferent
+to the person she was with.</p>
+<p>He was fixed in contemplation on this delightful copy, when the
+original appeared in all the advantages that jewels and rich dress could
+give her.—Tho' he loved her only for herself, and nothing could add to
+the sincere respect his heart had always paid her, yet to see her so
+different from what he expected, filled him with a surprize and a kind of
+enforced awe, which hindered him from giving that loose to his transports,
+which, after so long an absence, might have been very excusable;—and he
+could only say—my dear adorable Louisa, am I so blessed to see you once
+more!—She met his embrace half way, and replied, monsieur du Plessis,
+heaven has given me all I had to wish in restoring to me so faithful a
+friend;—but come, continued she, permit me to lead you to a father, who
+longs to embrace the protector of his daughter's innocence. Your father,
+madam! cried he; yes, answered she; in seeking a lover at Paris I found a
+father; Dorilaus is my father:—I have acquainted him with all the
+particulars of our story, and, I believe, the sincere affection I have for
+you will not be less pleasing for receiving his sanction to it.</p>
+<p>With these words she took his hand and led him, all astonishment, into
+an inner room where Dorilaus was sitting, who rose to meet him with the
+greatest politeness, and which shewed that to be master of, it was not
+necessary to be born in France; and on Louisa's acquainting him with the
+name of the person she presented, embraced him with the tenderness of a
+father, and made him such obliging and affectionate compliments, as
+confirmed to the transported du Plessis the character had been given of
+him.</p>
+<p>After the utmost testimonies of respect on both side, Dorilaus told his
+daughter she ought to make her excuses to monsieur for having eloped from
+the monastry where he had been so good to place her, which, said he, I
+think you can do in no better a manner than by telling the truth, and as I
+am already sufficiently acquainted with the whole, will leave you to
+relate it, while I dispatch a little business that at present calls me
+hence. He went out of the room in speaking this, and Louisa had a more
+full opportunity of informing her lover of all she had suffered since
+their parting, till this happy change in her fortune, than she could have
+had in the presence of her father, tho' no stranger to her most inmost
+thoughts on this occasion.</p>
+<p>The pleasing story of her pilgrimage rehearsed, how did the charmed du
+Plessis pity and applaud, by turns, her sufferings and fortitude!—How
+exclaim against the treachery of the abbess, and those of the nuns who
+were in confederacy with her! But his curiosity satisfied in this point,
+another rose instantly in his mind, that being the daughter of such a
+person as Dorilaus, wherefore she had made so great a secret of it, and
+what reason had occasioned her being on the terms she was with Melanthe.
+He no sooner expressed his wonder on these heads, than, having before her
+father's permission to do so, she resolved to leave him in no suspence on
+any score relating to her affairs.</p>
+<p>Tho', said she blushing, I cannot reveal the history of my birth
+without laying open the errors of those to whom I owe my being, yet I
+shall not think the sacrifice too great to recompence the obligations you
+have laid upon me; and then proceeded to acquaint him with every thing
+relating to her parents, as well as to herself, from the first moment she
+was found in the garden of Dorilaus.</p>
+<p>It is not to be doubted but that he listened to the story with the
+utmost attention, in which he found such matters of admiration, that he
+could not forbear frequently interrupting her, by crying, Oh heaven! oh
+providence! how mysterious are thy ways!—How, in thy disposal of things,
+dost thou force us to acknowledge thy divine power and wisdom!</p>
+<p>He was also extremely pleased to find she was the sister of Horatio,
+whom he had often been in company with both at the baron de la Valeire's
+and at St. Germains, and had admired for the many extraordinary qualities
+he discovered in him: this led them into a conversation concerning that
+young gentleman, and the misfortunes which some late news-paper gave an
+account were beginning to fall upon the king of Sweden; after that,
+renewing the subject of their mutual affection, and du Plessis running
+over the particulars of their acquaintance in Italy, Louisa asked whether
+the count de Bellfleur had ever testified any remorse for the injury he
+would have offered her, and in what manner they had lived together in the
+army? To which monsieur du Plessis replied, that the authority of the
+prince had prevented him from attempting any open acts of violence; but
+that by his manner of behaviour it was easy to see he had not forgiven the
+disappointment; and he verily believed wanted only a convenient
+opportunity to revenge it: but, continued he, whatever his designs were,
+heaven put a stop to the execution of them; for, in the first skirmish
+that happened between us and the forces of prince Eugene, this once gay,
+gallant courtier, had his head taken off by a cannon ball.</p>
+<p>The gentle Louisa could not forbear expressing some concern for the
+sudden fate of this bad man, greatly as she had been affronted by him; but
+when she reflected that the same accident might have befallen her dear du
+Plessis, she was all dissolved in tears.</p>
+<p>They were in this tender communication when Dorilaus returned leading
+the countess d'Espargnes in one hand, and mademoiselle de Palfoy in the
+other. Monsieur du Plessis was surprized to meet his sister in a place
+where he knew not she was acquainted, and she no less to find him there.
+The occasion of it was this:</p>
+<p>Dorilaus, when he left the lovers together, went directly to the baron
+de Palfoy's, and related to him and to mademoiselle the whole history of
+monsieur du Plessis and Louisa; on which they contriv'd to make a pleasant
+scene, by engaging the countess d'Espargnes to go with them to Dorilaus's,
+without letting her know on what account.—The event answered their
+wishes; madam d'Espargnes rallied her brother on finding him alone with
+so beautiful a young lady; and mademoiselle Charlotta, for his inconstancy
+to his mistress at Bolognia: but when the riddle was solved, and the
+countess came to know that the lady left in the monastery and Louisa were
+the same, she no longer condemned an attachment which before had given her
+so much pain.</p>
+<p>Mademoiselle Charlotta chid her for the reserve she had maintained to
+her in this affair, especially, said she, as you were obliged to the
+conversation you had with madam d'Espargnes in my apartment, that you
+received any intelligence of monsieur du Plessis, or knew how to direct
+your commands to him to return.</p>
+<p>That, madam, is an obligation lies wholly on me, said monsieur du
+Plessis; and I believe I shall find it very difficult to requite it, any
+more than I shall to deserve my sister's pardon, for so industriously
+endeavouring to conceal from her the secret of my passion and its object.</p>
+<p>Louisa told the ladies that she now hoped they would excuse the
+disorder she had been in at the countess's discourse, since they knew the
+motive:—a good deal of pleasantry passed between this agreeable company;
+and as they were in the midst of it, the baron de Palfoy, who had been
+hindered from accompanying Dorilaus, when he conducted the ladies, now
+joined them; and tho' he was considerably older than any there, was no
+less entertaining and good-humoured than the youngest.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus had privately ordered a very magnificent collation, which
+being served up, Louisa did the honours of the table with so good a grace,
+that madam d'Espargnes was charmed with her, and took an opportunity of
+asking Dorilaus when she might hope the happiness of calling so amiable a
+lady by the name of sister. Du Plessis thanked her for the interest she
+took in his affairs; and the baron de Palfoy added, that as the lovers
+wanted no farther proofs how worthy they were of each other, he would join
+in solliciting for a completion of their happiness. To which Dorilaus
+replied, that he was too well satisfied with his daughter's conduct, not
+to leave her entirely at her own disposal; and as to what related to
+fortune and settlement, he should be ready to enter into such articles as,
+he believed, monsieur du Plessis would have no reason to complain of.</p>
+<p>The passionate lover at these words cried out, that it was Louisa's
+self alone he was ambitious of possessing; nor had either that lady or her
+father any room to look on what he said as a mere compliment, because his
+love had long since waved all the seeming disproportion between them.</p>
+<p>In fine, not only at this time, but every day, almost every hour, was
+Louisa, as it now depended wholly on herself, importuned by her lover and
+the countess d'Espargnes to render his happiness complete; but she still
+delayed it, desiring to hear some news of Horatio, the baron de Palfoy
+having settled every thing with Dorilaus concerning his marriage with
+mademoiselle Charlotta, she was willing, she said, that as they were born
+on the same day, their nuptials should be also celebrated at the same
+time.</p>
+<p>Monsieur du Plessis was obliged to content himself with this since he
+could obtain no more; and for a time every thing passed smoothly and
+agreeably on; but news after news continually arriving of the king of
+Sweden's ill success in Ukrania, rendered all the noble friends of Horatio
+extremely dissatisfied:—the public accounts were too deficient for their
+information of any particular officer, and as there were very few French
+in the Swedish army, they could hope for no intelligence of him but from
+himself; which, as he omitted giving, they at last concluded he was either
+killed or taken prisoner; which last misfortune they looked upon as equal
+with the former:—the Russian barbarity, and their manner of treating
+those whom the chance of war threw into their hands, was no secret thro'
+all Europe; and whichever of these accidents had happened, must be very
+grievous to a gentleman of Dorilaus's disposition, who, when unknowing he
+was his son, loved him with more tenderness than many fathers do their
+offspring, but now convinced not only that he was so, but also that he was
+possessed of such amiable qualities as might do honour to the most
+illustrious race, had fixed an idea in his mind of such a lasting
+happiness in having him near him, that the thoughts of being deprived of
+him for ever threw him into a melancholy, which not all the friends he had
+acquired in Paris, not all the gaieties of that place, nor the sweet
+society of the engaging and dutiful Louisa, had the power to console. So
+deep was his affliction, that monsieur du Plessis, amorous and impatient
+as he was, had not courage to urge a grant of his own happiness, while
+those who were to bestow it, were incapable of sharing any part of it.</p>
+<p>Soon after there arrived a thunder-clap indeed:—certain intelligence
+that the once victorious Charles was totally overthrown, his whole army
+either cut to pieces or taken prisoners, and himself a fugitive in the
+grand seignior's dominions.—Dorilaus, now not doubting but the worst he
+feared had come to pass, shut himself from all company, and refused the
+unavailing comfort of those who came to offer it.—The fair eyes of Louisa
+were continually drowned in tears, and the generous du Plessis sympathized
+in all her griefs. But what became of mademoiselle Charlotta de Palfoy!
+her tender soul, so long accustomed to love Horatio, had not courage to
+support the shock of losing him;—losing him at a time when she thought
+herself secure of being united to him for ever;—when his discovered birth
+had rendered her father's wishes conformable to her own, and there wanted
+nothing but his presence to render both their families completely
+blessed:—all that excess of love which modesty had hitherto restrained
+her from giving any public marks of, now shewed itself in the violence of
+her grief and her despair.—She made no secret of her softest
+inclinations, and gave a loose to all the impatience of a ruined love.
+Even the haughty baron was melted into tears of compassion, and so far
+from condemning, that, he attempted all in his power to alleviate her
+sorrows.</p>
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<hr />
+<br/><br/>
+<br/>
+<h2>CHAP. XXVI.</h2>
+<br/><br/>
+<p><i>The Catastrophe of the whole</i>.</p>
+<p>Poor Horatio, released, as I have already said, from his worse than
+Turkish bondage, had now, with the companions of his misfortunes, left a
+country where they had suffered so much and had so little to hope, that
+their enlargement seemed even to themselves a miracle.—As they parted,
+miserable and forlorn, thro' those provinces where, about a year before,
+they had marched with so much pomp and force, as, together with the king
+of Sweden's name, inspired admiration and terror over all those parts of
+the world, it filled them with the most poignant anguish, and drew tears
+from those among them least sensible of any tender emotions.</p>
+<p>All this disconsolate company, except Horatio, being Swedes', they made
+the best of their way, some to Stockholm, and others to Straelsund.—Now
+left alone, a long journey before him, and altogether uncertain what
+reception he should find at Paris, either from Dorilaus or mademoiselle
+Charlotta, his condition was extremely pityable, and he stood in need of
+more fortitude than could be expected from his years, to enable him to go
+thro' it.</p>
+<p>The nearer he approached Paris, the greater was his shock at the
+necessity of appearing there in the despicable figure he now made; but his
+courage still got the better, and surmounted all difficulties. If Dorilaus
+thinks my disobedience to his commands a crime too great to merit his
+forgiveness, would he say to himself, or Charlotta disdains, in his
+misfortunes, the faithful Horatio, I have no more to do than to return to
+Poland and seek an honourable death in the service of Stanislaus.</p>
+<p>He made his entrance into that opulent city through the most bye-ways
+he could, and concealed himself till towards night in a little cabaret,
+where having soon been informed where Dorilaus lived, he went when it was
+quite dark to his house, though how divided between hope and fear it is
+easy to imagine. He knocked at the gate, which being opened by the porter,
+and he desiring to speak with his master, was answered with many
+impertinent questions, as—who he came from, what his business was, and
+such like interrogatories which the sawciness of servants generally put to
+persons such as this fellow took Horatio to be by his appearance. But he
+had no sooner desired he would tell Dorilaus that he came from Russia, and
+brought intelligence of Horatio, than his tone of voice and behaviour was
+quite changed.—Our traveller was now carried into a parlour and entreated
+to sit down, and the late surly porter called hastily for one of the
+servants, bidding him, with the utmost joy, run in and inform his master
+that here was a person come from Russia that could give him news of
+colonel Horatio.</p>
+<p>This a little raised the lately depressed spirits of Horatio, as it
+assured him his name was not unknown in that family, nor had been
+mentioned with indifference.</p>
+<p>He attended but a very little time before he was shewed up into
+Dorilaus's apartment, who was just opening his mouth to enquire if Horatio
+were yet living, and in what condition, when he saw it was himself.
+Surprize and joy rendered him incapable either of speaking to him, or
+hearing the apologies he was beginning to make for having disobeyed his
+commands:—but he fell upon his neck and gave him an embrace, which
+dissipated all Horatio's fears, and left him no room to doubt if his peace
+was made.</p>
+<p>No words were exchanged between them for a considerable time, but—oh
+my dear son, my ever loved Horatio, on the one side, my more than father,
+patron, on the other:—at length the tumultuous rapture of so unexpected a
+meeting and reception, giving way to a more peaceful calm,—Dorilaus made
+Horatio relate all the particulars had happened to him; and when he had
+ended, now, said he, I will reward the sincerity I easily perceive you
+have made use of in this narrative, by acquainting you, in my turn, with
+secrets you are far from having any notion of, and which, I believe, will
+compensate for all your sufferings, and make you own, that while you
+seemed to groan under the utmost severities of fortune, she was preparing
+for you all the blessings in her power to give, and even more than your
+ambition aimed at. But I have first a message to dispatch, continued he;
+at my return you shall know all.</p>
+<p>With these words he went out of the room, but came back in a moment,
+and, after renewing his embraces to Horatio, revealed to him the whole
+secret of his birth, with all had happened to Louisa till the time of
+their happy meeting in Paris.</p>
+<p>With what pleasing wonder the soul of Horatio was filled at this
+discovery, is much more easy to conceive than describe, so I shall leave
+it to the reader's imagination to guess what it was he felt and spoke on
+so extraordinary an occasion. While he was pouring out the transports it
+occasioned in the most grateful thanks to heaven, and his new found
+father, Louisa entered, Dorilaus having sent to the baron de Palfoy's,
+where he knew she was, to let her know a messenger from Russia was arrived
+with news of her brother:—they instantly knew each other, though it was
+upwards of four years since they were separated, and in that time the
+stature of both considerably increased:—nothing could exceed the joy of
+these amiable twins:—never was felicity more perfect, which yet received
+addition on Horatio's part, when Louisa told him, that it was as much as
+Charlotta could do to restrain herself from coming with her to hear what
+account the supposed messenger had brought.</p>
+<p>Dorilaus on this immediately sent to let her know his son was well, and
+expected in Paris the next day, for he would not suffer him to appear
+before her, or the baron, till a habit was made for him more agreeable to
+his condition than that he arrived in. It is certain that the impatience
+of a lover would have made Horatio gladly wave this ceremony, but he would
+not a second time dispute the commands of such a father.</p>
+<p>But wherefore should I delay the attention of my reader, who, I doubt
+not, but easily perceives by this time how things will end: so I shall
+only say that the meeting of Horatio and Charlotta was such, as might be
+expected from so arduous and constant an affection: that every thing
+having been settled between the two fathers at the time they sent their
+joint mandates to call him home, there now remained nothing but to
+celebrate the long desired nuptials, which was deferred no longer than was
+requisite for preparations to render the ceremony magnificent.</p>
+<p>The generous du Plessis and his beloved Louisa were also united the
+same day; and it would be hard to say which of these weddings afforded
+most satisfaction to the friends on both sides, or were attended with the
+most happy consequences to the persons concerned in them.</p>
+<p>By these examples we may learn, that to sustain with fortitude and
+patience whatever ills we are preordained to suffer, entitles us to
+relief, while by impatient struggling we should but augment the score, and
+provoke fate to shew us the vanity of all attempts to frustrate its
+decrees.</p>
+<p><i>FINIS</i>.</p>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10804 ***</div>
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