The female Quixote: or, the adventures of Arabella. In two volumes. ... [pt.2]

THE Female QUIXOTE. BOOK IX.

CHAP. I.

In which is related an admirable Ad∣venture.

MISS Glanville whose Spirits were greatly exhilerated at their En∣trance into London, that Seat of Magnificence and Pleasure, con∣gratulated her Cousin upon the Entertainment she would receive from the new and surprizing Objects which every Day for a considerable Time would furnish her with; and ran over the Catalogue of Diversions with such a Volubility of Tongue, as drew a gentle Re∣primand from her Father, and made her keep a sullen Silence till they were set down in

St. James's Square, the Place of their Residence in Town.

Sir Charles having order'd his late Lady's Apartment to be prepar'd for the Accommoda∣tion of his Niece; as soon as the first Civilities were over, she retir'd to her Chamber, where she employ'd herself in giving her Women Di∣rections for placing her Books, of which she had brought a moderate Quantity to London, in her Closet.

Miss Glanville as soon as she had dispatch'd away some hundred Cards to her Acquaintance, to give them Notice she was in Town, attend∣ed Arabella in her own Apartment; and as they sat at the Tea she begun to regulate the Diver∣sions of the Week, naming the Drawing-Room, Park, Concert, Ranelagh, Lady—As∣sembly, the Dutchess of Rant, Vaux-Hall, and a long &c. of Visits; at which Arabella, with an Accent that express'd her Surprize, ask'd her, If she suppos'd she intended to stay in Town three or four Years—

Law, Cousin, said Miss Glanville, all this is but the Amusement of a few Days.

Amusement, do you say, replied Arabella, methinks it seems to be the sole Employment of those Days: And what you call the Amuse∣ment, must of Necessity be the Business of Life.

You are always so grave, Cousin, said Miss Glanville, one does not know what to say to you. However, I shan't press you to go to Publick Places against your Inclination, yet you'll condescend to receive a few Visits, I suppose?

Yes, replied Arabella, and if among the La∣dies whom I shall see, I find any like the amia∣ble

Countess of —, I shall not scruple to enter into the most tender Amity with them.

The Countess of — is very well, to be sure, said Miss Glanville, yet I don't know how it is, she does not suit my Taste—She is very par∣ticular in a great many Things, and knows too much for a Lady, as I heard my Lord Fribble say one Day: Then she is quite unfashionable: She hates Cards, keeps no Assembly, is seen but seldom at Publick Places; and in my Opinion, as well as in a great many others, is the dullest Company in the World. I'm sure I met her at a Visit a little before I went down to your Seat, and she had not been a quarter of an Hour in the Room, before she set a whole Circle of Ladies a yawning.

Arabella, tho' she had a sincere Contempt for her Cousin's Manner of thinking, yet always politely conceal'd it; and vex'd as she was at her Sneers upon the Countess, she contented herself with gently defending her, telling her at the same Time, that till she met with a Lady who had more Merit than the Countess pos∣sess'd, she should always possess the first Place in her Esteem.

Arabella, who had from Youth adopted the Resentments of her Father, refus'd to make her Appearance at Court, which Sir Charles gently intimated to her; yet being not wholly divested of the Curiosity natural to her Sex, she condescended to go incog. to the Gallery on a B••ll Night, accompanied by Mr. Glanville and his Sister, in order to behold the Splendor of the British Court.

As her Romances had long familiariz'd her Thoughts to Objects of Grandeur and Magni∣ficence, she was not so much struck as might have been expected, with those that now pre∣sented themselves to her View. Nor was she a little disappointed to find that among the Men she saw none whose Appearance came up to her Ideas of the Air and Port of an Artaban, Oroon∣dates, or Juba; or any of the Ladies, who did not in her Opinion, fall short of the Perfections of Elisa, Mandana, Statira, &c. 'Twas re∣markable too, that she never enquir'd how often the Princesses had been carried away by capti∣vated Monarchs, or how many Victories the King's Sons had gain'd; but seem'd the whole Time she was there to have suspended all her Romantick Ideas of Glory, Beauty, Gallantry, and Love.

Mr. Glanville was highly pleas'd with her compos'd Behaviour, and a Day or two after intreated her to allow him the Honour of shew∣ing her what was remarkable and worthy of her Observation in this great Metropolis. To this she also consented, and for the greater Privacy began their Travels in a hir'd Coach.

Part of several Days were taken up in this Employment; but Mr. Glanville had the Mor∣tification to find she was full of Allusions to her Romances upon every Occasion, such as her asking the Person who shews the Armoury at the Tower, the Names of the Knights to whom each Suit belong'd, and wondering there were no Devices on the Shields or Plumes of Feathers in the Helmets: She observ'd that the Lyon Ly∣simachus kill'd, was according to the History of

that Prince, much larger than any of those she was shew'd in the Tower, and also much fiercer. Took Notice that St. Paul's was less magnifi∣cent in the Inside, than the Temple in which Cyrus, when he went to Mandana, heard her return Thanks for his suppos'd Death: En∣quir'd if it was not customary for the King and his whole Court to sail in Barges upon the Thames, as Augustus used to do upon the Tyber, whether they had not Musick and Collations in the Park, and where they celebrated the Justs and Tournaments.

The Season for Vaux-Hall being not yet over, she was desirous of once seeing a Place, which by the Description she had heard of it, greatly resembled the Gardens of Lucullus at Rome, in which the Emperor, with all the Princes and Princesses of his Court were so nobly entertain'd, and where so many gallant Conversations had pass'd among those admirable Persons.

The Singularity of her Dress, for she was cover'd with her Veil, drew a Number of Gazers after her, who prest round her with so little Respect, that she was greatly embarrass'd, and had Thoughts of quitting the Place, de∣lightful as she own'd it, immediately, when her Attention was wholly engross'd by an Adven∣ture in which she soon interested herself very deeply.

An Officer of Rank in the Sea Service had brought his Mistress disguis'd in a Suit of Man's or rather Boy's Cloaths, and a Hat and Fea∣ther, into the Gardens. The young Creature being a little intoxicated with the Wine she had taken too freely, was thrown so much off her

Guard as to give Occasion to some of the Com∣pany to suspect her Sex; and a gay Fellow, in order to give them some Diversion at her Ex∣pence, pretending to be affronted at something she said, drew his Sword upon the disguis'd Fair One, which so alarm'd her, that she shriek'd out, She was a Woman, and ran for Protection to her Lover, who was so dis••rder'd with Liquor, that he was not able to defend her.

Miss Glanville ever curious and inquisitive, demanded the Cause why the Company ran in Crouds to that particular Spot; and receiv'd for Answer, That a Gentleman had drawn his Sword upon a Lady disguis'd in a Man's Habit.

Oh Heav'ns! cry'd Arabella, this must cer∣tainly be a very notable Adventure. The Lady has doubtless some extraordinary Circumstances in her Story, and haply upon Enquiry, her Mis∣fortunes will be found to resemble those which oblig'd the beautiful Aspasia to put on the same Disguise, who was by that Means murder'd by the cruel Zenodorus in a Fit of Jealousy at the Amity his Wife exprest for her. But can I not see this unfortunate Fair One, added she, pressing in spite of Mr. Glanville's Intreaties thro' the Croud—I may haply be able to afford her some Consolation.

Mr. Glanville finding his Persuasions were not regarded, follow'd her with very little Dif∣ficulty: For her Veil falling back in her Hurry, she did not mind to replace it, and the Charms of her Face, join'd to the Majesty of her Per∣son, and Singularity of her Dress, attracting every Person's Attention and Respect, they made Way for her to pass, not a little surpriz'd

at the extreme Earnestness and Solemnity that appear'd in her Countenance upon an Event so diverting to every one else.

The disguis'd Lady whom she was endea∣vouring to approach, had thrown herself upon a Bench in one of the Boxes, trembling still with the Apprehension of the Sword, tho' her Antagonist was kneeling at her Feet, making Love to her in Mock-Heroicks for the Diver∣sion of the Company.

Her Hat and Peruke had fallen off in her Fright, and her Hair which had been turn'd up under it, hung now loosely about her Neck, and gave such an Appearance of Woe to a Face, which notwithstanding the Paleness that Terror had overspread it with, was really extremely pretty, that Arabella was equally struck with Compassion and Admiration of her.

Lovely Unknown, said she to her with an Air of extreme Tenderness, tho' I am a Stran∣ger both to your Name and History, yet your Aspect persuading me your Quality is not mean, and the Condition and Disguise in which I be∣hold you, shewing that you are Unfortunate, per∣mit me to offer you all the Assistances in my Pow∣er, seeing that I am mov'd thereto by my Com∣passion for your Distress, and that Esteem which the Sight of you must necessarily inspire.

Mr. Glanville was struck dumb with Confu∣sion at this strange Speech, and at the Whispers and Scoffs it occasion'd among the Spectators. He attempted to take hold of her Hand in order to lead her away, but she disengag'd herself from him with a Frown of Displeasure; and taking no Notice of Miss Glanville, who whisper'd

with great Emotion, Lord, Cousin, how you expose yourself! prest nearer to the Beautiful Disguis'd, and again repeated her Offers of Service.

The Girl being perfectly recover'd from her Intoxication by the Fright she had been in, gaz'd upon Arabella with a Look of extreme Sur∣prize: Yet being mov'd to respect by the Dig∣nity of her Appearance, and strange as her Words seem'd to be by the obliging Purport of them, and the affecting Earnestness with which they were deliver'd, she rose from her Seat and thank'd her, with an Accept full of Regard and Submission.

Fair Maid, said Arabella, taking her Hand, let us quit this Place, where your Discovery may probably subject you to more Dangers: If you will be pleas'd to put yourself into my Pro∣tection, and acquaint me with the History of your Misfortunes; I have Interest enough with a valiant Person who shall undertake to free you from your Persecutions, and re-establish the Repose of your Life.

The kneeling Hero, who as well as every one else that were present, had gaz'd with Asto∣nishment at Arabella during all this Passage, perceiving she was about to rob him of the dis∣guis'd Fair, seiz'd hold of the Hand she had at Liberty, and swore he would not part with her.

Mr. Glanville almost mad with Vexation, endeavour'd to get Arabella away.

Are you mad, Madam, said he in a Whisper, to make all this Rout about a Prostitute? Do you see how every body stares at you? What will they think—For Heav'ns sake let us be gone.

What, Sir, replied Arabella in a Rage, Are you base enough to leave this admirable Crea∣ture in the Power of that Man, who is que∣stionless her Ravisher; and will you not draw your Sword in her Defence?

Hey day! cry'd the Sea-Officer, wak'd out of his stupid Dose by the Clamour about him: What's the Matter here—What are you doing? Where's my Lucy? Zoons! Sir, said he to the young Fellow who held her, What Business have you with my Lucy? And uttering a dreadful Oath, drew out his Sword, and stagger'd towards his gay Rival, who observing the Weakness of his Antagonist, flourish'd with his Sword to shew his Courage and frighten the Ladies, who all ran away screaming. Arabella taking Miss Glanville under the Arm, cried out to Mr. Glanville as she left the Place, to take Care of the distress'd Lady, and while the two Comba∣tants were disputing for her, to carry her away in Safety.

But Mr. Glanville without regarding this In∣junction, hasten'd after her; and to pacify her, told her the Lady was rescu'd by her favourite Lover, and carry'd off in Triumph.

But are you sure, said Aabella, it was not some other of her Ravishers who carry'd her away, and not the Person whom she has haply favour'd with her Affection? May not the same Thing have happen'd to her, as did to the beau∣tiful Candace, Queen of Ethiopia; who while two of her Ravishers were fighting for her, a third whom she took for her Deliverer, came and carry'd her away.

But she went away willingly, I assure you, Madam, said Mr. Glanville: Pray don't be in any Concern about her—

If she went away willingly with him, reply'd Arabella, 'tis probable it may not be another Ravisher: And yet if this Person that rescu'd her happen'd to be in Armour, and the Vizor of his Helmet down, she might be mistaken as well as Queen Candace.

Well, well, he was not in Armour, Madam, said Glanville almost beside himself with Vexation at her Folly—

You seem to be disturb'd, Sir, said Arabella a little surpriz'd at his peevish Tone: Is there any Thing in this Adventure which concerns you? Nay, now I remember, you did not of∣fer to defend the Beautiful Unknown. I am not willing to impute your In-action upon such an Occasion, to Want of Courage or Genero∣sity; perhaps you are acquainted with her Hi∣story, and from this Knowledge refus'd to en∣gage in her Defence.

Mr. Glanville perceiving the Company gather from all Parts to the Walk they were in, told her he would acquaint her with all he knew concerning the disguis'd Lady when they were in the Coach on their Return Home; and Ara∣bella impatient for the promis'd Story, propos'd to leave the Gardens immediately, which was gladly comply'd with by Mr. Glanville, who heartily repented his having carry'd her thither.

CHAP. II.

Which ends with a very unfavourable Pre∣diction for our Heroine.

AS soon as they were seated in the Coach she did not fail to call upon him to perform his Promise: But Mr. Glanville, excessively out of Humour at her exposing herself in the Gar∣dens, reply'd, without considering whether he shuld not offend her, That he knew no more of the disguis'd Lady than any body else in the Place.

How, Sir, reply'd Arabella, Did you not promise to relate her Adventures to me? And would you have me believe you knew no more of them than the rest of the Cavaliers and La∣dies in the Place?

Upon my Soul, I don't, Madam, said Glan∣ville; yet what I know of her is sufficient to let me understand she was not worth the Con∣sideration you seem'd to have for her.

She cannot sure be more indiscreet than the fair and unfortunate Hermione, reply'd Arabella; who like her put on Man's Apparel, through Despair at the ill Success of her Passion for Alex∣ander —And certain it is, that tho' the beautiful Hermione was guilty of one great Error which lost her the Esteem of Alexander, yet she had a high and noble Soul; as was manifest by her Behaviour and Words when she was run thro' by the Sword of Demetrius. Oh! Death, cry'd she, as she was falling, how sweet do I find

thee, and how much and how earnestly have I desir'd thee!

Oh Lord! oh Lord! cry'd Mr. Glanville hardly sensible of what he said, Was there ever any Thing so intolerable?

Do you pity the unhappy Hermione, Sir? said Arabella interpreting his Exclamation her own Way? Indeed she is well worthy of your Com∣passion. And if the bare Recital of the Words she utter'd at receiving her Death's Wound af∣fects you so much, you may guess what would have been your Agonies, had you been Deme∣trius that gave it to her.

Here Mr. Glanville groaning aloud thro' Im∣patience at her Absurdities—

This Subject affects you deeply, I perceive, said Arabella. There is no Question but you would have acted in the same Circumstance, as Demetrius did: Yet let me tell you, the Ex∣travagancy of his Rage and Despair for what he had innocently committed, was imputed to him as a great Imbecillity, as was also the vio∣lent Passion he conceiv'd soon after for the Fair Deidamia. You know the Accident which brought that fair Princess into his Way.

Indeed, I do not, Madam, said Glanville peevishly.

Well, then I'll tell you, said Arabella, but pausing a little:

The Recital I have engag'd myself to make, added she, will necessarily take up some Hours Time, as upon Reflexion I have found: So if you will dispense with my beginning it at pre∣sent, I will satisfy your Curiosity To-morrow, when I may be able to pursue it without Inter∣ruption.

To this Mr. Glanville made no other An∣swer than a Bow with his Head; and the Coach a few Moments after arriving at their own House, he led her to her Apartment, firmly resolv'd never to attend her to any more Publick Places while she continued in the same ridicu∣lous Folly.

Sir Charles, who had several Times been in doubt whether Arabella was not really disorder'd in her Senses; upon Miss Glanville's Account of her Behaviour at the Gardens, concluded she was absolutely mad, and held a short Debate with himself, Whether he ought not to bring a Commission of Lunacy against her, rather than marry her to his Son, whom he was per∣suaded could never be happy with a Wife so un∣accountably absurd. Tho' he only hinted at this to Mr. Glanville, in a Conversation he had with him while his Dissatisfaction was at its Height, concerning Arabella, yet the bare Sup∣position that his Father ever thought of such a Thing, threw the young Gentleman into such Agonies, that Sir Charles to compose him, pro∣tested he would do nothing in relation to his Niece that he would not approve of. Yet he expostulated with him on the Absurdity of her Behaviour, and the Ridicule to which she ex∣pos'd herself wherever she went; appealing to him, whether in a Wife he could think those Follies supportable, which in a Mistress occasion'd him so much Confusion.

Mr. Glanville, as much in Love as he was, felt all the Force of this Inference, and acknow∣ledg'd to his Father, That he could not think of marrying Arabella, till the Whims her Ro∣mances

had put into her Head, were craz'd by a better Knowledge of Life and Manners. But he added with a Sigh, That he knew not how this Reformation would be effected; for she had such a strange Facility in reconciling every Incident to her own fantastick Ideas, that every new Object added Strength to the fatal Deception she laboured under.

CHAP. III.

In which Arabella meets with another admirable Adventure.

OUR lovely Heroine had not been above a Fortnight in London, before the gross Air of that smoaky Town affected her Health so much, that Sir Charles propos'd to her to go for a few Weeks to Richmond, where he hir'd a House elegantly furnish'd for her Reception.

Miss Glanville had been too long out of that darling City, to pay her the Compliment of at∣tending her constantly at Richmond; yet she promis'd to be as often as possible with her: And Sir Charles, having Affaris that could not dis∣pense with his Absence from town, plac'd his Steward in her House, being a Person whose Prudence and Fidelity he could rely upon; and he, with her Women, and two or three other menial Servants, made up her Equipage.

As it was not consistent with Decorum for Mr. Glanville to reside in her House, he con∣tented himself with riding to Richmond generally

every Day: And as long as Arabella was pleas'd with that Retirement, he resolv'd not to press her Return to Town till the Countess of—arriv'd, in whose Conversation he grounded all his Hopes of her Cure.

At that Season of the Year Richmond not being quite deserted by Company, Arabella was visited by several Ladies of Fashion; who charm'd with her Affability, Politeness, and good Sense, were strangely perplex'd how to ac∣count for some Peculiarities in her Dress and Manner of thinking.

Some of the younger Sort from whom Arabella's extraordinary Beauty took away all Pretensions to Equality on that Score, made themselves ex∣tremely merry with her Oddnesses, as they call'd them, and gave broad Intimations that her Head was not right.

As for Arabella, whose Taste was as delicate, Sentiments as refin'd, and Judgment as clear as any Person's could be who believ'd the Authen∣ticity of Scudery's Romances, she was strange∣ly disappointed to find no Lady with whom she could converse with any tolerable Pleasure: And that instead of Clelia's, Statira's Mandana's, &c. she found only Miss Glanville among all she knew.

The Comparison she drew between such as these and the charming Countess of—whom she had just begun to be acquainted with at Bath, increas'd her Regret for the Interruption that was given to so agreeable a Friendship: And it was with infinite Pleasure Mr. Glanville heard her repeatedly wish for the Arrival of that admi∣rable Lady (as she always call'd her) in Town.

Not being able to relish that insipid Conver∣sation of the young Ladies that visited her at Richmond, her chief Amusement was to walk in the Park there; which because of its Rural Priva∣cy, was extremely agreeable to her Inclinations.

Here she indulg'd Contemplation, leaning on the Arm of her faithful Lucy, while her other Women walk'd at some Distance behind her, and two Men Servants kept her always in Sight.

One Evening when she was returning from her usual Walk, she heard the Sound of a Wo∣man's Voice, which seem'd to proceed from a Tuft of Trees that hid her from her View. And stopping a Moment, distinguish'd some plaintive Accents, which increasing her Curio∣sity, she advanc'd towards the Place, telling Lucy, she was resolv'd if possible to discover who the distress'd Lady was, and what was the Subject of her Affliction.

As she drew nearer with softly treading Steps, she could distinguish through the Branches of the Trees, now despoil'd of great part of their Leaves, two Women seated on the Ground, their Backs towards her, and one of them with her Head gently reclin'd on the other's Shoulder, seem'd by her mournful Action to be weeping; for she often put her Handkerchief to her Eyes, breathing every Time a Sigh, which, as Arabella phras'd it, seem'd to proceed from the deepest Recesses of her Heart.

This Adventure, more worthy indeed to be styl'd an Adventure than all our Fair Heroine had ever yet met with, and so conformable to what she had read in Romances, fill'd her Heart with eager Expectation. She made a Sign to

Lucy to make no Noise, and creeping still closer towards the Place where this afflicted Person sat, she heard her distinctly utter these Words, which however were often interrupted with her Sighs.

Ah! Ariamenes, whom I to my Misfortune have too much loved, and whom to my Mis∣fortune I fear I shall never sufficiently hate, since that Heav'n and thy cruel Ingratitude hath ordain'd that thou shalt never be mine, and that so many sweet and dear Hopes are for ever taken from me, return me at least, ungrateful Man, return me those Testimonies of my in∣nocent Affection, which were sometimes so dear and precious to thee. Return me those Favours, which all innocent as they were, are become Criminal by thy Crime. Return me, Cruel Man, return me those Reliques of my Heart which thou detainest in Despight of me, and which, notwithstanding thy Infidelity, I cannot recover.

Here her Tears interrupting her Speech, Arabella being impatient to know the History of this afflicted Person, came softly round to the other Side, and shewing herself, occasion'd some Disturbance to the sad Unknown; who rising from her Seat, with her Face averted, as if asham'd of having so far disclos'd her Sor∣rows in a Stranger's Hearing, endeavour'd to pass by her un-notic'd.

Arabella perceiving her Design, stop'd her with a very graceful Action, and with a Voice all compos'd of Sweetness, earnestly conjur'd her to relate her History.

Think not, Lovely Unknown, said she (for she was really very pretty) that my Endeavours to detain you proceed from an indiscreet Curio∣sity. 'Tis true, some Complaints which have fallen from your fair Mouth, have rais'd in me a Desire to be acquainted with your Adventures; but this Desire has its Foundation in that Com∣passion your Complaints have fill'd me with: And if I wish to know your Misfortunes, 'tis only with a View of affording you some Consolation.

Pardon me, Madam, said the Fair Afflicted, gazing on Arabella with many Signs of Ad∣miration, if my Confusion at being over-heard in a Place I had chosen to bewail my Misfor∣tunes, made me be guilty of some Appearance of Rudeness, not seeing the admirable Person I wanted to avoid. But pursued she, hesitating a little, those Characters of Beauty I behold in your Face, and the Gracefulness of your De∣portment convincing me you can be of no or∣dinary Rank, I will the less scruple to acquaint you with my Adventures, and the Cause of those Complaints you have heard proceed from my Mouth.

Arabella assuring her, that whatever her Mis∣fortunes were, she might depend upon all the Assistance in her Power, seated herself near her at the Foot of the Tree where she had been fit∣ting, and giving Lucy Orders to join the rest of her Women, and stay at a Distance till she made a Sign to them to advance, she pre∣par'd to listen to the Adventures of the Fair Unknown, who after some little Pause, began to relate them in this Manner.

CHAP. IV.

In which is related the History of the Princess of Gaul.

MY Name, Madam, is Cynccia, my Birth Illustrious enough, seeing that I am the Daughter of a Sovereign Prince, who possesses a large and spacious Territory in what is now called Antient Gaul.

What, Madam, interrupted Arabella, Are you a Princess then?

Questionless I am, Madam, replied the La∣dy; and a Princess happy and prosperous, till the Felicity of my Life was interrupted by the perfidious Ariamenes.

Pardon me, Madam, interrupted Arabella again, that my Ignorance of your Quality made me be deficient in those Respects which are due to your high Birth, and which notwith∣standing those Characters of Greatness I might read in the Lineaments of your Visage, I yet neglected to p••y—

Alas! Madam, said the Stranger, that little Beauty which the Heavens bestow'd on me only to make me wretched, as by the Event it has proved, has long since taken its Flight, and together with my Happiness, I have lost that which made me Unhappy. And certain it is, Grief has made such Ravages among what might once have been thought tolerable in my Face, that I should not be surpriz'd if my being no longer Fair, should make you with Difficulty believe I ever was so.

Arabella after a proper Compliment in An∣swer to this Speech, intreated the Princess to go on with her History, who hesitating a little, comply'd with her Request.

Be pleas'd to know then, Madam, said she, that being bred up with all imaginable Tender∣ness in my Father's Court, I had no sooner arriv'd to my Sixteenth Year than I saw myself surrounded with Lovers; who nevertheless, such was the Severity with which I behav'd myself, conceal'd their Passions under a respect∣ful Silence, well knowing Banishment from my Presence was the least Punishment they had to expect, if they presum'd to declare their Senti∣ments to me.

I liv'd in this Fashion, Madam, for Two Years longer, rejoicing in the Insensibility of my own Heart, and triumphing in the Suffer∣ings of others, when my Tranquillity was all at once interrupted by an Accident which I am going to relate to you.

The Princess stopt here to give Vent to some Sighs which a cruel Remembrance forc'd from her; and continuing in a deep Muse for five or six Minutes, resum'd her Story in this Manner.

It being my Custom to walk in a Forest adjoining to one of my Father's Sum mer Residences, attended only by my Women, one Day when I was taking this A muse∣ment, I perceiv'd at some Distance a Man ly∣ing on the Ground; and impell'd by a sudden Curiosity, I advanc'd towards this Person, whom upon a nearer View I perceiv'd to have been wounded very much, and fainted away through

Loss of Blood. His Habit being very rich, I concluded by that he was of no mean Quality: But when I had look'd upon his Countenance, pale and languishing as it was, methought there appear'd so many Marks of Greatness, accom∣pany'd with a Sweetness so happily blended, that my Attention was engag'd in an extraordinary Manner, and interested me so powerfully in his Safety, that I commanded some of my Women to run immediately for proper Assistance, and convey him to the Castle, while I directed others to throw some Water in his Face, and to apply some Linen to his Wounds, to stop the Bleeding.

These charitable Cares restor'd the wounded Stranger to his Senses; he open'd his Eyes, and turning them slowly to the Objects around him, fix'd at last their languishing Looks on me: When mov'd, as it should seem, to some Respect by what he saw in my Countenance, he rose with some Difficulty from the Ground, and bowing almost down to it again, by that Action seem'd to pay me his Acknowledgments for what he suppos'd I had done for his Preservation.

His extreme Weakness having oblig'd him to creep towards a Tree, against the Back of which he supported himself, I went nearer to him, and having told him the Condition in which I found him, and the Orders I had dispatch'd for Assist∣ance, requested him to acquaint me with his Name and Quality, and the Adventure which had brought him into that Condition.

My Name, Madam, answer'd he, is Aria∣menes, my Birth is Noble enough; I have spent some Years in my Travels, and was returning

to my native Country, when passing thro' this Forest I was seiz'd with an Inclination to sleep. I had ty'd my Horse to a Tree, and retiring some few Paces off, stretch'd myself at the Foot of a large Oak whose Branches promis'd me an agreeable Shade. I had not yet clos'd my Eyes, when the Slumber I invited was dissipated by the Sound of some Voices near me.

A Curiosity, not natural to me, made me listen to the Discourse of these Persons, whom by the Tone of their Voices, tho' I could not see them, I knew to be Men.

In short, Madam, I was a Witness to a most horrible Scheme which they concerted together; my Weakness will not permit me to enter into an exact Detail of all I heard: The Result of their Conference was, To seize the Princess of this Country and carry her off.

Here, pursued Cynecia, I interrupted the Stranger with a loud Cry, which giving him to understand who I was, he apologiz'd in the most graceful Manner imaginable for the little Respect he had hitherto paid me.

I then intreated him to tell me, If he had any Opportunity of hearing the Name of my design'd Ravisher; to which he reply'd, that he under∣stood it to be Taxander.

This Man, Madam, was one of my Father's Favourites, and had been long secretly in Love with me.

Ariamenes then inform'd me, that being en∣flam'd with Rage against these impious Villains, he rose from the Ground, re-mounted his Horse, and defy'd the two Traytors aloud, threatning them with Death, unless they abandon'd their impious Design.

Taxander made no Answer, but rush'd furi∣ously upon him, and had the Biseness to suffer his wicked Associate to assist him: But the va∣liant Ariamenes, tho' he spoke modestly of his Victory, yet gave me to understand that he had made both the Villams abandon their wicked En∣terprize, with their Lives; and that dismount∣ing in order to see if they were quite dead, he found himself so faint with the Wounds he had received from them both, that he had not Strength to re-mount his Horse; but crawling on, in Hopes of meeting with some Assistance, sainted away at last through Weariness and Loss of Blood.

While he was giving me this Account, the Chariot I had sent for arrived, and having made him such Acknowledgments as the Obligation I had received from him demanded, I caus'd him to get into the Chariot, and sending one with him to acquaint the Prince my Father with all that had happen'd, and the Merit o•• the valiant Stranger, I return'd the same Way I came with my Women, my Thoughts being wholly engross'd by this Unknown.

The Service he had done me fill'd me with a Gratitude and Esteem for him, which prepar'd my Heart for those tender Sentiments I after∣wards entertain'd to the Ruin of my Repose.

I will not tire your Patience, Madam, with a minute Detail of all the succeeding Passages of my Story; it shall suffice to tell you, That Ariamenes was received with extraordinary Marks of Esteem by my Father; that his Cure was soon compleated; and that having vow'•• himself to my Service, and declar'd an unal∣terable

Passion for me, I permitted him to love me, and gave him that Share in my Heart, which I fear not all his Infidelities will ever de∣prive him of.

His Attachment to me was soon suspected by Taxander's Relations, who having secretly vow'd his Ruin, endeavour'd to discover if I had admitted his Addresses, and having made themselves Masters of our Secrets, by means of the Treachery of one of my Women, procur'd Information to be given to my Father of our mutual Passion.

Alas! what Mischiefs did not this fatal Dis∣covery produce: My Father, enrag'd to the last Degree at this Intelligence, confin'd me to my Apartments, and order'd Ariamenes to leave his Dominions within three Days.

Spare me, Madam, the Repetition of what pass'd at our last sad Interview, which by large Bribes to my Guards, he obtain'd.

His Tears, his Agonies, his Vows of ever∣lasting Fidelity, so sooth'd my Melancholy at parting with him, and persuaded me of his Constancy, that I waited for several Months with perfect Tranquillity for the Performance of the Promise he made me, to do my Father such considerable Services in the War he was engag'd in with one of his Neighbours, as should oblige him to give me to him for his Reward.

But, alas! two Years roll'd on without bringing back the unfaithful Ariamenes. My Father died, and my Brother who succeeded him, being about to force me to marry a Prince whom I detested, I secretly quitted the Court, and attended only by this faithful Confidant whom

you behold with me, and some few of my trusty Domesticks, I came hither in Search of Aria∣menes, he having told me this Country was the Place of his Birth.

Polenor, the most prudent and faithful of my Servants, undertook to find out the ungreateful Ariamenes, whom yet I was willing to find Ex∣cuses for, but all his Enquiries were to no Ef∣fect; the Name of Ariamenes was not known in this Part of the World.

Tir'd out with unsuccessful Enquiries, I re∣solv'd to seek out some obscure Place, where I might in secret lament my Misfortunes, and expect the End of them in Death. My At∣tendants found me out such a Retreat as I wanted, in a neighbouring Village, which they call Twickenham, I think, from whence I often make Excursions to this Park, attended only as you see; and here indulge myself in Com∣plaints upon the Cruelty of my Destiny.

The sorrowful Cynecia here ended her Story, to which in the Course of her Relation she had given a great many Interruptions through the Violence of her Grief: And Arabella, after having said every thing she could think on to al∣leviate her Affliction, earnestly intreated her to accept of an Asylum at her House; where she should be treated with all the Respect due to her illustrious Birth.

The afflicted Lady, tho' she respectfully de∣clin'd this Offer, yet express'd a great Desire of commencing a strict Amity with our fair He∣roine, who on her Part, made her the most tender Protestations of Friendship.

The Evening being almost clos'd, they parted with great Reluctancy on both Sides; mutually promising to meet in the same Place the next Day.

Cynecia, having enjoin'd her new Friend ab∣solute Secrecy, Arabella was under a Necessity of keeping this Adventure to herself. And tho' she long'd to tell Mr. Glanville, who came to visit her the next Day, that the Countess was extremely mistaken, when she maintain'd there were no more wandering Princesses in the World, yet the Engagement she had submitted to, kept her silent.

CHAP. V.

A very mysterious Chapter.

ARABELLA, who impatiently long'd for the Hour of meeting the fair Princess, with whom she was extremely delighted, con∣sulted her Watch so often, and discover'd so much Restlessness and Anxiety, that Mr. Glan∣ville began to be surpriz'd; and the more, as she peremptorily commanded him not to attend her in her Evening Walk. This Prohibition, which, tho' he durst not dispute, he secretly re∣solv'd to disobey; and as soon as she set out for the Park with her usual Attendants, he slipp'd out by a Back-door, and keeping her in his Sight, himself unseen, she ventur'd to watch her Motions.

As he had expected to unravel some great Mystery, he was agreeably disappointed to find she continu'd her Walk in the Park with great Composure; and tho' she was soon join'd by the imaginary Princess, yet conceiving her to be some young Lady, with whom she had commenc'd an Acquaintance at Richmond, his Heart was at Rest; and for fear of displeasing her, he took a con∣trary Path from that she was in, that he might not meet her, yet resolv'd to stay till he thought she would be inclin'd to return, and then shew himself, and conduct her Home. A Solicitude for which he did not imagine she need be of∣fended.

The two Ladies being met, after reciprocal Compliments, the Princess intreated Arabella to relate her Adventures; who not being wil∣ling to violate the Laws of Romance, which require an unbounded Confidence upon these Occasions, began very succinctly to recount the History of her Life; which, as she manag'd it, contain'd Events almost as Romantick and Incredible as any in her Romances; winding them up with a Confession that she did not hate Mr. Glanville, whom she acknowledg'd to be one of the most faithful and zealous of Lovers.

Cynecia with a Sigh, congratulated her upon the Fidelity of a Lover, who by her Descrip∣tion, was worthy the Place he possess'd in her Esteem: And expressing a Wish, that she could see, unobserv'd by him, this gallant and gene∣rous Person, Arabella, who that Moment espy'd him at a Distance, yet advancing towards them, told her, with a Blush that overspread all her Face, That her Curiosity might be satisfy'd in

the Manner she wish'd, for, yonder, added she is the Person we have been talking of.

Cynecia, at these Words, looking towards the Place where her fair Friend had directed; no sooner cast her Eyes upon Mr. Glanville, than giving a loud Cry, she sunk into the Arms of Arabella, who, astonish'd and perplex'd as she was, eagerly held them out to support her.

Finding her in a Swoon, she dispatch'd. Lucy, who was near her, to look for some Water to throw in her Face; but that Lady breathing a deep Sigh, open'd her languishing Eyes, and fix∣ing a melancholy Look upon Arabella,

Ah! Madam, said she, wonder not at my Affliction and Surprize, since in the Person of your Lover I behold the ungrateful Ariamenes.

Oh Heav'ns! my fair Princess, replied Ara∣bella, What is it you say? Is it possible Glan∣ville can be Ariamenes?

He, cried the afflicted Princess with a dis∣order'd Accent, He whom I now behold! and whom you call Glanville, was once Ariamenes, the perjur'd, the ungrateful Ariamenes. Adieu, Madam, I cannot bear this Sight; I will hide myself from the World for ever; nor need you fear a Rival or an Enemy in the unfortunate Cynecia, who if possible, will cease to love the unfaithful Ariamenes, and will never hate the beautiful Arabella.

Saying this, without giving her Time to an∣swer, she took hold of her Confidant by the Arm, and went away with so much Swiftness, that she was out of sight before Arabella was enough recover'd from her Astonishment to be able to intreat her Stay.

Our charming Heroine, ignorant till now of the true State of her Heart, was surpriz'd to find it assaulted at once by all the Passions which attend disappointed Love. Grief, Rage, Jea∣lousy, and Despair made so cruel a War in her gentle Bosom, that unable either to express or to conceal the strong Emotions with which she was agitated, she gave Way to a violent Burst of Tears, leaning her Head upon Lucy's Shoulder, who wept as heartily as her Lady, tho' igno∣rant of the Cause of her Affliction.

Mr. Glanville, who was now near enough to take Notice of her Posture, came running with eager Heart to see what was the matter; when Arabella, rous'd from her Extacy of Grief by the Sound of his Steps, lifted up her Head, and seeing him approach,

Lucy, cried she, trembling with the Violence of her Resentment, Tell that Traitor to keep out of my Sight. Tell him, I forbid him ever to appear before me again. And, tell him, ad∣ded she, with a Sigh that shook her whole tender Frame, All that Blood in his Body is too little to wash away his Guilt, or to pacify my Indignation.

Then hastily turning away, she ran towards her other Attendants, who were at some Di∣stance; and joining her Women, proceeded directly Home.

Mr. Glanville, amaz'd at this Action, was making after her as fast as he could, when Lucy crossing in his Way, cry'd out to him to stop.

My Lady, said she, bid me tell you, Trai∣tor—

Hey day! interrupted Glanville, What the Devil does the Girl mean?

Pray Sir, said she, let me deliver my Mes∣sage: I shall forget if you speak to me till I have said it all—Stay, let me see, What comes next?

No more Traitor, I hope, said Glanville.

Nor, Sir, said Lucy; but there was some∣thing about washing in Blood, and you must keep out of her Sight, and not appear before the Nation—Oh dear! I have forgot it half: My Lady was in such a piteous Taking, I for∣got it, I believe, as soon as she said it. What shall I do?—

No Matter, said Glanville, I'll overtake her, and ask—

No, no, Sir, said Lucy, Pray don't do that, Sir, my Lady will be very angry: I'll venture to ask her to tell me over again, and come back and let you know it.

But tell me, reply'd Glanville, Was any thing the Matter with your Lady? She was in a pi∣teous Taking, you say.

Oh dear! yes, Sir, said Lucy; but I was not bid to say any thing about that. To be sure, my Lady did cry sadly, and sigh'd as if her Heart would break; but I don't know what was the Matter with her.

Well, said Glanville, excessively shock'd at this Intelligence, Go to your Lady; I am go∣ing Home—You may bring me her Message to my own Apartment.

Lucy did as she was desir'd; and Mr. Glan∣ville, impatient as he was to unravel the My∣stery, yet dreading lest his Presence should make

Arabella be guilty of some Extravagance before the Servants who were with her, he follow'd slowly after her, resolving if possible, to pro∣cure a private Interview with the lovely Vision∣ary, for whose Sorrow, tho' he suspected it was owing to some ridiculous Cause, he could not help being affected.

CHAP. VI.

Not much plainer than the former.

ARABELLA, who had walk'd as fast as her Legs would carry her, got Home before Lucy could overtake her, and retiring to her Chamber, gave Way to a fresh Burst of Grief, and bewail'd the Infidelity of Glanville in Terms befitting a Clelia or Mandana.

As soon as she saw Lucy enter, she started from her Chair with great Emotion.

Thou comest, said she, I know, to inter∣cede for that ungrateful Man, whose Infidelity I am weak enough to lament: But open not thy Mouth, I charge thee, in his Defence.

No, indeed, Madam, said Lucy.

Nor bring me any Account of his Tears, his Desparation, or his Despair, said Arabella, since questionless he will feign them all to deceive me.

Here Glanville, who had watch'd Lucy's com∣ing, and had follow'd her into Arabella's Apart∣ment, appear'd at the Door.

Oh Heav'ns! cry'd Arabella lifting up her fine Eyes, Can it be that this disloyal Man, un∣aw'd by the Discovery of his Guilt, again pre∣sumes to approach me!—

Dearest Cousin, said Glanville, What is the Meaning of all this?—How have I disoblig'd you?—What is my Offence? I beseech you, tell me.

* 1.1 Ask the inconstant Ariamenes, reply'd Arabella, the Offence of the ungrateful Glan∣ville. The Betrayer of Cynecia can best answer that Question to the Deceiver of Arabella. And the Guilt of the one can only be compar'd to the Crimes of the other.

Good God! interrupted Mr. Glanville fret∣ting excessively, What am I to understand by all this? On my Soul, Madam, I don't know the Meaning of one Word you say.

Oh Dissembler! said Arabella, Is it thus that thou would'st impose upon my Credulity? Does not the Name of Ariamenes make thee tremble then? And can'st thou hear that of Cynecia without Confusion?

Dear Lady Bella, said Glanville smiling, What are these Names to me?

False Man, interrupted Arabella, Dost thou presume to sport with thy Crimes then? Are not the Treacheries of Ariamenes the Crimes of Glanville? Could Ariamenes be false to the Prin∣cess

of Gaul, and can Glanville be innocent to∣wards Arabella?

Mr. Glanville, who had never heard her in his Opinion, talk so ridiculously before, was so amaz'd at the incomprehensible Stuff she utter'd with so much Emotion, that he began to fear her Intellects were really touch'd. This Thought gave him a Concern that spread itself in a Moment over his Countenance. He gaz'd on her with a fix'd Attention, dreading, yet wishing she would speak again; equally divided between his Hopes, that her next Speech would remove his Suspicion, and his Fears, that it might more confirm them.

Arabella taking Notice of his pensive Posture, turn'd away her Head, lest by beholding him, she should relent, and treat him with less Seve∣rity than she had intended; making at the same Time a Sign to him to be gone.

Indeed, Lady Bella, said Glanville who un∣derstood her perfectly well, I cannot leave you in this Temper. I must know how I have been so unfortunate as to offend you.

Arabella, no longer able to contain herself, burst into Tears at this Question: With one Hand she made repeated Signs to him to be gone, with the other she held her Handkerchief to her Eyes, vex'd and asham'd of her Weak∣ness.

But Mr. Glanville, excessively shock'd at this Sight, instead of leaving her, threw himself on his Knees before her, and taking her Hand, which he tenderly prest to his Lips,

Good God! my dearest Cousin, said he, How you distract me by this Behaviour! Sure

something extraordinary must be the Matter. What can it be that thus afflicts you?—Am I the Cause of these Tears?—Can I have offended you so much?—Speak, dear Madam—Let me know my Crime. Yet may I perish if I am conscious of any towards you—

Disloyal Man, said Arabella dis-engaging her Hand from his, Does then the Crime of Aria∣menes seem so light in thy Apprehension, that thou can'st hope to be thought innocent by Arabella? No, no, ungrateful Man, the un∣fortunate Cynecia shall have no Cause to say, that I will triumph in her Spoils. I myself will be the Minister of her Revenge; and Glanville shall suffer for the Crime of Ariamenes.

Who the Devil is this Ariamenes, cry'd Glanville rising in a Passion? And why am I to suffer for his Crime, pray? For Heav'ns Sake, dear Cousin, don't let your Imagination wan∣der thus. Upon my Soul, I don't believe there is any such Person as Ariamenes in the World,

Vile Equivocator, said Arabella; Ariamenes, tho' dead to Cynecia, is alive to the deluded Arabella. The Crimes of Ariamenes are the Guilt of Glanville: And if the one has made himself unworthy of the Princess of Gaul, by his Perfidy and Ingratitude, the other by his Baseness and Deceit, merits nothing but Con∣tempt and Detestation from Arabella.

Frenzy, by my Soul, cry'd Glanville mutter∣ingly between his Teeth: This is downright Frenzy. What shall I do?—

Hence, from my Presence, resum'd Arabella, false and ungrateful Man; persecute me no more with the hateful Offers of thy Love. From

this Moment I banish thee from my Thoughts for ever; and neither as Glanville or as Aria∣menes, will I ever behold thee more.

Stay, dear Cousin, said Glanville holding her (for she was endeavouring to rush by him, un∣willing he should see the Tears that had over∣spread her Face as she pronounc'd those Words) hear me, I beg you, but one Word. Who is it you mean by Ariamenes?—Is it me?—Tell me, Madam, I beseech you—This is some hor∣rid Mistake—You have been impos'd upon by some villainous Artifice—Speak, dear Lady Bella—Is it me you mean by Ariamenes? For so your last Words seem'd to hint—

Arabella, without regarding what he said, struggled violently to force her Hand from his: and finding him still earnest to detain her, told him with an enrag'd Voice, That she would call for Help, if he did not unhand her directly.

Poor Glanville, at this Menace, submissively dropt her Hand; and the Moment she was free, she flew out of the Room, and locking herself up in her Closet, sent her Commands to him by one of her Women, whom she call'd to her, to leave her Apartment immediately.

CHAP. VII.

Containing indeed no great Matters, but being a Prelude to greater.

MR. Glanville, who stood fix'd like a Statue in the Place where Arabella had left him, was rous'd by this Message, which tho' palliated

a little by the Girl that deliver'd it, who was not quite so punctual as Lucy, nevertheless fill'd him with extreme Confusion. He obey'd how∣ever immediately, and retiring to his own Apart∣ment, endeavour'd to recall to his Memory all Lady Bella had said.

The Ambiguity of her Style, which had led him into a Suspicion he had never entertain'd before, her last Words had partly explain'd, if as he understood she did, she meant him by Ariamenes. Taking this for granted, he easily conceiv'd some Plot grounded on her Roman∣tick Notions had been laid, to prepossess her against him.

Sir George's Behaviour to her rush'd that Mo∣ment into his Thoughts: He instantly recollected all his Fooleries, his History, his Letter, his Conversation, all apparently copied from those Books she was so fond of, and probably done with a View to some other Design upon her.

These Reflections, join'd to his new awak'd Suspicions, that he was in Love with her, con∣vinc'd him he was the Author of their present Mis-understanding; and that he had impos'd some new Fallacy upon Arabella, in order to promote a Quarrel between them.

Fir'd almost to Madness at this Thought, he stamp'd about his Room, vowing Revenge up∣on Sir George, execrating Romances, and curs∣ing his own Stupidity for not discovering Sir George was his Rival, and knowing his plotting Talent, not providing against his Artifices.

His first Resolutions were to set out imme∣diately for Sir George's Seat, and force him to confess the Part he had acted against him: But a

Moment's Consideration convinc'd him, that was not the most probable Place to find him in, since it was much more likely he was waiting the Success of his Schemes in London, or perhaps at Richmond.

Next to satiating his Vengeance, the Pleasure of detecting him in such a Manner, that he could not possibly deny or palliate his Guilt, was next his Heart.

He resolv'd therefore to give it out, that he was gone to London, to make Lady Bella be∣lieve it was in Obedience to her Commands that he had left her, with a Purpose not to re∣turn till he had clear'd his Innocence; but in reality to conceal himself in his own Apartment, and see what Effects his reputed Absence would produce.

Having thus taken his Resolution, he sent for Mr. Roberts his Father's Steward, to whose Care he had entrusted Lady Bella in her Retire∣ment, and acquainting him with Part of his Apprehensions with Regard to Sir George's At∣temp••s upon his Cousin; he imparted to him his Design of staying conceal'd there, in order to discover more effectually those Attempts, and to preserve Lady Bella from any Consequence of them.

Mr. Roberts approv'd of his Design; and as∣sur'd him of his Vigilance and Care, both in concealing his Stay, and also in giving him No∣tice of every Thing that pass'd.

Mr. Glanville then wrote a short Billet to Arabella, expressing his Grief for her Displea∣sure, his Departure in Obedience to her Orders, and his Resolution not to appear in her Presence,

till he could give her convincing Proofs of his Innocence.

This Letter he sent by Roberts, which Ara∣bella condescended to read, but would return no Answer.

Mr. Glanville then mounting his Horse, which Roberts had order'd to be got ready, rode away, and leaving him at a House he sometimes put up at, return'd on Foot, and was let in by Mr. Roberts at the Garden-door, and conducted unseen to his Chamber.

While he pass'd that Night and great Part of the next Day, meditating on the Treachery of Sir George, and soothing his Uneasiness with the Hopes of Revenge, Arabella, no less disquieted, mus'd on the Infidelity of her Lover, the De∣spair of Cynecia, and the Impossibility of her ever being happy. Then ransacking her Me∣mory for Instances in her Romances of Ladies equally unfortunate with herself, she would sometimes compare herself to one Lady, some∣times to another, adapting their Sentiments, and making Use of their Language in her Com∣plaints.

Great Part of the Day being spent in this Manner, the uneasy Restlessness of her Mind made her wish to see Cynecia again. She long'd to ask her a hundred Questions about the un∣faithful Ariamenes, which the Suddainess of her Departure, and her own Astonishment prevented her from doing, when she made that fatal Dis∣covery, which had cost her so much Uneasiness.

Sometimes a faint Hope would arise in her Mind that Cynecia might be mistaken, thro' the great Resemblance that possibly was between Ariamenes and Glanville.

She remember'd that Mandana had been de∣ceiv'd by the Likeness of Cyrus to Spitridates; and concluded that illustrious Prince inconstant, because Spitridates, whom she took for Cyrus, saw her carry'd away, without offering to rescue her.

Dwelling with Eagerness upon this Thought, because it afforded her a temporary Relief from others more tormenting, she resolv'd to go to the Park, tho' she had but little Hopes of find∣ing Cynecia there; supposing it but too proba∣ble, that the Disturbance which the Sight, or fancy'd Sight of Ariamenes had given her, would confine her for some Days to her Chamber. Yet however small the Probability was of meet∣ing with her, she could not resist the impatient Desire she felt of going to seek her.

Dispensing therefore with the Attendance of any other Servant but Lucy, she left her Apart∣ment, with a Design of resuming her usual Walk, when she was met at her stepping out of the Door by Lady L—'s three Daughters, (who had visited her during her Residence at Richmond) and another young Lady.

These Ladies, who to vary the Scene of their Rural Diversions, were going to cross over to Twickenham, and walk there, prest Lady Bella to accompany them. Our melancholy Heroine refus'd them at first, but upon their repeated Importunity, recollecting that the Princess of Gaul had inform'd her she resided there, she consented to go, in Hopes some favourable Chance might bring her in their Way, or dis∣cover the Place of her Retreat, when she could easily find some Excuse for leaving her Compa∣nions, and going to her.

Mr. Roberts, who according to his Instructi∣ons, narrowly watch'd Arabella's Motions, find∣ing she did not command his Attendance as usual, resolv'd however to be privately of this Party. He had but just Time to run up and acquaint Mr. Glanville, and then follow'd the Ladies at a Distance, who taking Boat, pass'd over to Twickenham, which he also did as soon as he saw them landed.

CHAP. VIII.

Which acquaints the Reader with two very extraordinary Accidents.

MR. Glanville, who did not doubt but Roberts would bring him some Intelli∣gence, sat waiting with anxious Impatience for his Return. The Evening drew on apace, he number'd the Hours, and began to grow uneasy at Arabella's long Stay. His Chamber Win∣dow looking into the Garden, he thought he saw his Cousin, cover'd with her Veil as usual, hasten down one of the Walks; his Heart leap'd at this transient View, he threw up the Sash, and looking out, saw her very plainly strike into a cross Walk, and a Moment after saw Sir George, who came out of a little Sum∣mer-house, at her Feet. Transported with Rage at this Sight, he snatch'd up his Sword, flew down the Stairs into the Garden, and came running like a Madman up the Walk in which the Lovers were. The Lady observing him first, for Sir George's Back was towards

him, shriek'd aloud, and not knowing what she did, ran towards the House, crying for Help, and came back as fast, yet not Time enough to prevent Mischief: For Mr. Glan∣ville, actuated by an irresistible Fury, cry'd out to Sir George to defend himself, who had but just Time to draw his Sword and make an in∣effectual Pass at Mr. Glanville, when he receiv'd his into his Body, and fell to the Ground.

Mr. Glanville losing his Resentment insensi∣bly at the Sight of his Rival's Blood, threw down his Sword, and endeavour'd to support him; while the Lady, who had lost her Veil in her running, and to the great Astonishment of Mr. Glanville, prov'd to be his Sister, came up to them, with Tears and Exclamations, blaming herself for all that had happen'd. Mr. Glanville, with a Heart throbbing with Re∣morse for what he had done, gaz'd on his Sister with an accusing Look, as she hung over the wounded Baronet with streaming Eyes, some∣times wringing her Hands, then clasping them together in an Agony of Grief.

Sir George having Strength enough left to observe her Disorder, and the generous Concern of Glanville, who holding him in his Arms, intreated his Sister to send for proper Assistance, Dear Charles, said he, you are too kind, I have us'd you very ill, I have deserv'd my Death from your Hand—You know not what I have been base enough to practise against you— If I can but live to clear your Innocence to Lady Bella, and free you from the Consequen∣ces of this Action, I shall die satisfy'd—

His Strength failing him at these Words, he fainted away in Mr. Glanville's Arms; who tho' now convinc'd of his Treachery, was extremely shock'd at the Condition he saw him in.

Miss Glanville renewing her Tears and Ex∣clamations at this Sight, he was oblig'd to lay Sir George gently upon the Ground, and ran to find out somebody to send for a Surgeon, and to help him to convey him into the House.

In his Way he was met by Mr. Roberts, who was coming to seek him; and with a Look of Terror and Confusion told him, Lady Bella was brought Home extremely ill—that her Life had been in Danger, and that she was but just recover'd from a terrible fainting Fit.

Mr. Glanville, tho' greatly alarm'd at this News, forgot not to take all possible Care of Sir George; directing Roberts to get some Per∣son to carry him into the House, and giving him Orders to procure proper Assistance, flew to Lady Bella's Apartment.

Her Women had just put her to Bed, raving as in a strong Delirium. Mr. Glanville ap∣proach'd her, and finding she was in a violent Fever, dispatch'd a Man and Horse immedi∣ately to Town, to get Physicians, and to ac∣quaint his Father with what had happen'd.

Mr. Roberts, upon the Surgeon's Report that Sir George was not mortally wounded, came to inform him of this good News, but he sound him incapable of listning to him, and in Ago∣nies not to be exprest. 'Twas with Difficulty they forc'd him out of Arabella's Chamber into his own; where throwing himself upon his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, he refus'd to see or speak to any Body, till

he was told Sir Charles and the Physicians were arriv'd.

He then ran eagerly to hear their Opinions of his beloved Cousin, which he soon discover'd by their significant Gestures and half pronounc'd Words, to be very bad. They comforted him however, with Hopes that she might recover, and insisting upon her being kept very quiet, oblig'd him to quit the Room. While all the necessary Methods were taken to abate the Vio∣lence of the Disease, Sir Charles, who had been inform'd by his Steward of his Son's Duel with Sir George, was amaz'd to the last Degree at two such terrible Accidents.

Having seen his Son to his Chamber, and re∣commended him to be patient and compos'd, he went to visit the young Baronet, and was not a little surpriz'd to find his Daughter sitting at his Bed's Head, with all the Appearance of a violent Affliction.

Indeed Miss Glanville's Cares were so wholly engross'd by Sir George's, that she hardly ever thought of her Cousin Arabella, and had just stept into her Chamber while the Surgeons were dressing Sir George's Wound, and renew'd her Attendance upon him as soon as that was over.

Miss Glanville however, thought proper to make some trifling Excuses to her Father for her Solicitude about Sir George. And the young Baronet, on whom the Fear of Death produc'd its usual Effects, and made him ex∣tremely concern'd for the Errors of his past Life, and very desirous of attoning for them if possible, assur'd Sir Charles, that if he liv'd he

would offer himself to his Acceptance for a Son-in-law; declaring that he had basely trifled with the Esteem of his Daughter, but that she had wholly subdued him to herself by her for∣giving Tenderness.

Sir Charles was very desirous of knowing the Occasion of his Quarrel with his Son, but Sir George was too weak to hold any further Con∣versation, upon which Sir Charles, after a short Visit retir'd, taking Miss Glanville along with him.

That the Reader, whose Imagination is no doubt upon the Stretch to conceive the Meaning of these Two extraordinary Incidents, may be left no longer in Suspence, we think proper to explain them both in the following Chapter, that we may in the next pursue our History without Interruption.

CHAP. IX.

Which will be found to contain Informa∣tion absolutely necessary for the right understanding of this History.

OUR fair and afflicted Heroine, accompa∣nied by the Ladies we have mention'd, having cross'd the River, pursu'd their Walk upon its winding Banks, entertaining them∣selves with the usual Topicks of Conversation among young Ladies, such as their Winnings and Losings at Brag, the Prices of Silks, the newest Fashions, the best Hair-Cutter, the Scandal at the last Assembly, &c.

Arabella was so disgusted with this (as she thought) insipid Discourse, which gave no Re∣lief to the Anxiety of her Mind, but added a Kind of Fretfulness and Impatience to her Grief; that she resolv'd to quit them, and with Lucy, go in quest of the Princess of Gaul's Retreat.

The Ladies however, insisted upon her not leaving them; and her Excuse that she was going in search of an unfortunate Unknown, for whom she had vow'd a Friendship, made them all immediately resolve to accompany her, extremely diverted with the Oddity of the De∣sign, and sacrificing her to their Mirth by sly Leers, Whispers, stifled Laughs, and a thou∣sand little sprightly Sallies, which the disconso∣late Arabella took no Notice of, so deeply were her Thoughts engag'd.

Tho' she knew not which Way to direct her Steps, yet concluding the melancholy Cynccia would certainly chuse some very solitary Place for her Residence, she rambled about among the least frequented Paths, follow'd by the young Ladies, who ardently desir'd to see this unfor∣tunate Unknown; tho' at Arabella's earnest Request, they promis'd not to shew themselves to the Lady, who, she inform'd them, for very urgent Reasons, was oblig'd to keep herself conceal'd.

Fatiguing as this Ramble was to the delicate Spirits of Arabella's Companions, they were en∣abled to support it by the Diversion her Beha∣viour afforded them.

Every Peasant she met, she enquir'd if a Beau∣tiful Lady disguis'd did not 〈…〉〈…〉 thereabout.

To some she gave a Description of her Per∣son, to others an Account of the Domesticks that were with her; not forgetting her Dress, her Melancholy, and the great Care she took to keep herself conceal'd.

These strange Enquiries, with the strange Language in which they were made, not a lit∣tle surpriz'd the good People to whom she ad∣dress'd herself, yet mov'd to Respect by the ma∣jestick Loveliness of her Person, they answer'd her in the Negative, without any Mixture of Scoff and Impertinence.

How unfavourable is Chance, said Arabella fretting at the Disappointment, to Persons who have any Reliance upon it! This Lady that I have been in Search of so long without Success, may probably be found by others who do not seek her, whose Presence she may wish to avoid, yet not be able.

The young Ladies finding it grew late, ex∣press'd their Apprehensions at being without any Attendants; and desir'd Arabella to give over her Search for that Day. Arabella at this Hint of Danger, enquir'd very earnestly, If they ap∣prehended any Attempts to carry them away? And without staying for an Answer, urg'd them to walk Home as fast as possible, apologizing for the Danger into which she had so indiscreet∣ly drawn both them and herself; yet added her Hopes, that if any Attempt should be made upon their Liberty, some generous Cavalier would pass by who would rescue them: A Thing so common, that they had no Reason to de∣spair of it.

Arabella construing the Silence with which her Companions heard these Assurances, into a Doubt of their being so favoured by Fortune, proceeded to inform them of several Instances wherein Ladies met with unexpected Relief and Deliverance from Ravishers.

She mention'd particularly the Rescue of Statira by her own Brother, whom she ima∣gin'd for many Years dead; that of the Prin∣cess Berenice by an absolute Stranger, and many others, whose Names, Characters and Adven∣tures she occasionally run over; all which the young Ladies heard with inconceivable Asto∣nishment. And the Detail had such an Effect upon Arabella's Imagination, bewilder'd as i•• was in the Folies of Romances, that 'spying three or four Horsemen riding along the Road towards them, she immediately concluded they would be all seiz'd and carry'd off.

Possess'd with this Belief, she utter'd a loud Cry, and flew to the Water-side, which alarm∣ing the Ladies, who could not imagine what was the Matter, they ran after her as fast as possible.

Arabella stop'd when she came to the Water∣side, and looking round about, and not perceiv∣ing any Boat to waft them over to Richmond, a Thought suddenly darted into her Mind, wor∣thy those ingenious Books which gave it Birth.

Turning therefore to the Ladies, who all at once were enquiring the Cause of her Fright;

'Tis now, my fair Companions, said she, with a solemn Accent, that the Destinies have

furnish'd you with an Opportunity of display∣ing in a Manner truly Heroick, the Sublimity of your Virtue, and the Grandeur of your Courage to the World.

The Action we have it in our Power to per∣form will immortalize our Fame, and raise us to a Pitch of Glory equal to that of the re∣nown'd Clelia herself.

Like her, we may expect Statues erected to our Honour: Like her, be propos'd as Patterns to Heroines in ensuing Ages: And like her, perhaps, meet with Sceptres and Crowns for our Reward.

What that beauteous Roman Lady perform'd to preserve herself from Violation by the impi∣ous Sextus, let us imitate to avoid the Violence our intended Ravishers yonder come to offer us.

Fortune, which has thrown us into this Exi∣gence, presents us the Means of gloriously escaping: And the Admiration and Esteem of all Ages to come, will be the Recompence of our noble Daring.

Once more, my fair Companions, If your Honour be dear to you, if an immortal Glory be worth your seeking, follow the Exam∣ple I shall set you, and equal with me the Ro∣man Clelia.

Saying this, she plung'd into the Thames, in∣tending to swim over it, as Clelia did the Tyber.

The young Ladies, who had listen'd with silent Astonishment at the long Speech she had made them, the Purport of which not one of them understood, scream'd out aloud at this

horrid Spectacle, and wringing their Hands, ran backwards and forwards like distracted Per∣sons, crying for Help. Lucy tore her Hair, and was in the utmost Agony of Grief, when Mr. Roberts, who, as we have said before, kept them always in Sight, having observ'd Arabella running towards the Water-side, follow'd them as fast as he could, and came Time enough up to see her frantick Action. Jumping into the River immediately after her, he caught hold of her Gown, and drew her after him to the Shore. A Boat that Instant appearing, he put her into it, senseless, and to all Appearance dead. He and Lucy supporting her, they were wasted over in a few Moments to the other Side: Her House being near the River, Mr. Roberts carry'd her in his Arms to it; and as soon as he saw her shew Signs of returning Life, left her to the Care of the Women, who made haste to put her into a warm Bed, and ran to find out Mr. Glanville, as we have related.

There remains now only to account for Sir George and Miss Glanville's sudden Appear∣ance, which happen'd, gentle Reader, exactly as follows.

Miss Glanville, having set out pretty late in the Afternoon, with a Design of staying all Night at Richmond, as her Chaise drove up Kew-Lane, saw one of her Cousin's Women, Deborah by Name, talking to a Gentleman, whom, notwithstanding the Disguise of a Horse∣man's Coat, and a Hat slouch'd over his Face, she knew to be Sir George Bellmour.

This Sight alarming her Jealousy, and re∣newing all her former Suspicions, that her Cou∣sin's Charms rival'd hers in his Heart, as soon as she alighted, finding Arabella was not at Home, she retir'd in great Anguish of Mind to her Chamber, revolving in her Mind every Particular of Sir George's Behaviour to her Cou∣sin in the Country, and finding new Cause for Suspicion in every Thing she recollected, and reflecting upon the Disguise in which she saw him, and his Conference with her Woman, she concluded herself had all along been the Dupe of his Artifice, and her Cousin the real Object of his Love.

This Thought throwing her into an Extre∣mity of Rage, all her tenderest Emotions were lost in the Desire of Revenge. She imagin'd to herself so much Pleasure from exposing his Treachery, and putting it our of his Power to deny it, that she resolv'd, whatever it cost her, to have that Satisfaction.

Supposing therefore Deborah was now re∣turn'd, she rung her Bell, and commanded her Attendance on her in her Chamber.

The Stern Brow with which she receiv'd her, frighten'd the Girl, conscious of her Guilt, into a Disposition to confess all, even before she was tax'd with any thing.

Miss Glanville saw her Terror, and endea∣vour'd to heighten it, by entering at once into Complaints and Exclamations against her, threatning to acquaint her Father with her Plots to betray her Lady, and assuring her of a very severe Punishment for her Treachery.

The Girl, terrify'd extremely at these Me∣naces, begg'd Miss Glanville, with Tears, to forgive her, and not to acquaint Sir Charles or her Lady, with her Fault; adding, that she would confess all, and never while she liv'd, do such a Thing again.

Miss Glanville would make her no Promises, but urg'd her to confess: Upon which Deborah sobbing, own'd, That for the Sake of the Pre∣sents Sir George had made her, she consented to meet him privately from Time to Time, and give him an Account of every Thing that pass'd with Regard to her Lady; not thinking there was any Harm in it. That according to his Desires, she had constantly acquainted him with all her Lady's Motions, when, and where she went, how she and Mr. Glanville agreed, and a hundred other Things which he enquir'd about. That that Day in particular, he had intreated her to procure him the M••ans of an Interview with her Lady, if possible; and un∣derstanding Mr. Glanville was not at Richmond, she had let him privately into the Garden, where she hop'd to prevail upon her Lady to go.

What, said Miss Glanville surpriz'd, Is Sir George waiting for my Cousin in the Garden then?

Yes, indeed, Madam, said Deborah: But I'll go and tell him to wait no longer; and never speak to him again, if your Ladyship will but be pleas'd to forgive me.

Miss Glanville having taken her Resolution, not only promis'd Deborah her Pardon, but also

a Reward, provided she would contrive it so, that she might meet Sir George instead of her Cousin.

The Girl, having the true Chamber-Maid Spirit of Intrigue in her, immediately propos'd her putting on one of her Lady's Veils; which as it was now the Close of the Evening, would disguise her sufficiently; to which Miss Glanville, transported with the Thoughts of thus having an Opportunity of convincing Sir George of his Perfidy, and reproaching him for it, consented, and bid her bring it without being observ'd, into her Chamber.

Deborah informing her, that Sir George was conceal'd in the Summer-House, as soon as she had equipp'd herself with Arabella's Veil she went into the Walk that led to it; and Sir George, believing her to be that Lady, hasten'd to throw himself at her Feet, and had scarce got through half a Speech he had study'd for his present Purpose, when Mr. Glanville gave a fatal In∣terruption to his Heroicks, in the Manner we have already related.

CHAP. X.

A short Chapter indeed, but full of Matter.

RICHMOND was now a Scene of the ut∣most Confusion and Distress. Arabella's Fever was risen to such a Height, that she was

given over by the Physicians; and Sir George's Wounds, tho' not judg'd mortal at first, yet by the great Effusion of Blood had left him in so weak a Condition, that he was thought to be in great Danger.

Sir Charles, almost distracted with the Fears of the Consequences of Sir George's Death, in∣treated his Son to quit the Kingdom; but Mr. Glanville, protesting he would rather die than leave Arabella in that Illness, he was oblig'd to give Bail for his Appearance, in Case Sir George dy'd: This Affair, notwithstanding all Endeavours to prevent it, having made a great Noise.

Poor Sir Charles, opprest as he was with the Weight of all these Calamities, was yet oblig'd to labour incessantly to keep up the Spirits of his Son and Daughter. The settled Despair of the one, and the silent swelling Grief of the other, cut him to the Heart. He omitted no Arguments his Paternal Affection suggested to him, to moderate their Affliction. Mr. Glan∣ville often endeavour'd to assume a Composure he was very far from feeling, in order to satisfy his Father. But Miss Glanville, looking upon herself to be the Cause of Sir George's Misfor∣tune, declar'd, She should be miserable all her Life, if he died.

Arabella in her lucid Intervals, being sensible of her Danger, prepar'd for Death, with great Piety and Constancy of Mind, having solemnly assur'd Mr. Glanville of her Forgiveness, who would not at that Time enter into an Explana∣tion

of the Affair which had given her Offence for fear of perplexing her. She permitted his Presence often in her Chamber, and desir'd with great Earnestness the Assistance of some worthy Divine in her Preparations for Death. The Pious and Learned Doctor—at Sir Charles's Intimation of his Niece's Desire, came con∣stantly twice a Day to attend her. Her Fever, by a favourable Crisis, and the great Skill of her Physicians, left her in a Fortnight; but this violent Distemper had made such a Ravage in her delicate Constitution, and reduc'd her so low that there seem'd very little Probability of her Recovery. Doctor—, in whom her un∣feign'd Piety, her uncommon Firmness of Mind, had created a great Esteem and Tenderness for her, took all Opportunities of comforting, ex∣horting, and praying by her. The Occasion of her Illness being the Subject of every body's Conversation at Richmond, he gently hinted it to her, and urg'd her to explain her Reasons for so extravagant an Action.

In the Divine Frame Arabella was then in, this Action appear'd to her rash and vain-glori∣ous, and she acknowledg'd it to be so to her pious Monitor: Yet she related the Motives which induc'd her to it, the Danger she was in of being carry'd away, the Parity of her Cir∣cumstances then with Clelia, and her emulous Desire of doing as much to preserve her Ho∣nour as that renown'd Roman Lady did for hers.

The good Doctor was extremely surpriz'd at this Discourse: He was beginning to think her

again delirious; but Arabella added to this Ac∣count such sensible Reasoning on the Nature of that Fondness for Fame, which prompted her to so rash an Undertaking, that the Doctor left her in strange Embarrassment, not knowing how to account for a Mind at once so enlight∣en'd, and so ridiculous.

Mr. Glanville, meeting him as he came out of her Chamber, the Doctor took this Oppor∣tunity to acknowledge the Difficulties Arabella's inconsistent Discourse had thrown him into. Mr. Glanville taking him into his own Apart∣ment, explain'd the Nature of that seeming Inconsistency, and expatiated at large upon the Disorders Romances had occasion'd in her Ima∣gination; several Instances of which he re∣counted, and fill'd the Doctor with the greatest Astonishment and Concern. He lamented pa∣thetically the Ruin such a ridiculous Study had brought on so noble a Mind; and assur'd Mr. Glanville, he would spare no Endeavours to rescue it from so shocking a Delusion.

Mr. Glanville thank'd him for his good De∣sign, with a Transport which his Fears of his Cousin's Danger almost mingled with Tears; and the Doctor and he agreed to expect for some few Days longer an Alteration for the better in the Health of her Body, before he attempted the Cure of her Mind. Mr. Glanville's extreme Anxiety had made him in Appearance neglect the repentant Sir George, contenting himself with constantly sending twice a Day to enquire after his Health, but had not yet visited him.

No sooner had the Physicians declared that Arabella was no longer in Danger, than his Mind being freed from that tormenting Load of Suspence under which it had labour'd while her Recovery was yet doubful, he went to Sir George's Chamber, who by reason of his Weakness, tho' he was also upon the Recovery, still kept his Bed.

Sir George, tho' he ardently wish'd to see him, yet conscious of the Injuries he had both done and design'd him, could not receive his Visit without extreme Confusion: But entering into the Cause of their Quarrel, as soon as he was able to speak, he freely acknowledg'd his Fault, and all the Steps he had taken to supplant him in Arabella's Affection.

Mr. Glanville understanding by this Means, that he had brib'd a young Actress to personate a Princess forsaken by him; and had taught her all that Heap of Absurdity with which she had impos'd upon Arabella, as has been related, desir'd only by Way of Reparation, That when his Cousin was in a Condition to be spoken to upon that Subject, he would condescend to own the Fraud to her; which Sir George faithfully pro∣mising, an Act of Oblivion pass'd on Mr. Glanville's Side for all former Injuries, and a so∣lemn Assurance from Sir George of inviolable Friendship for the future. An Assurance, how∣ever, which Mr. Glanville would willingly have dispens'd with: For tho' not of a vindictive Temper, it was one of his Maxims, That a Man who had once betray'd him, it would be an Error in Policy ever to trust again.

CHAP. XI.

Being in the Author's Opinion, the best Chapter in this History.

THE good Divine, who had the Cure of Arabella's Mind greatly at Heart, no sooner perceiv'd that the Health of her Body was almost restor'd, and that he might talk to her without the Fear of any Inconvenience, than he introduc'd the Subject of her throwing her∣self into the River, which he had before lightly touch'd upon, and still declar'd himself dissatis∣fy'd with.

Arabella, now more dispos'd to defend this Point than when languishing under the Pressure of Pain and Dejection of Mind, endeavour'd by Arguments founded upon Romantick Hero∣ism, to prove, That it was not only reasonable and just, but also great and glorious, and exactly conformable to the Rules of Heroick Virtue.

The Doctor listen'd to her with a mix'd Emotion, between Pity, Reverence, and Amaze∣ment: And tho' in the Performance of his Of∣fice he had been accustom'd to accommodate his Notions to every Understanding, and had therefore accumulated a great Variety of To∣picks and Illustrations; yet he found himself now engag'd in a Controversy for which he was not so well prepar'd as he imagin'd, and was at

a Loss for some leading Principle, by which he might introduce his Reasonings, and begin his Confutation.

Tho' he saw much to praise in her Discourse, he was afraid of confirming her Obstinacy by Commendation: And tho' he also found much to blame, he dreaded to give Pain to a Delicacy he rever'd.

Perceiving however, that Arabella was silent, as if expecting his Reply, he resolv'd not to bring upon himself the Guilt of abandoning her to her Mistake, and the Necessity of speaking forc'd him to find something to say.

Tho' it is not easy, Madam, said he, for any one that has the Honour of conversing with your Ladyship to preserve his Attention free to any other Idea, than such as your Discourse tends immediately to impress, yet I have not been able while you was speaking, to refrain from some very mortifying Reflections on the Imperfection of all human Happiness, and the uncertain Consequences of all those Advantages which we think ourselves not only at Liberty to desire, but oblig'd to cultivate.

Tho' I have known some Dangers and Di∣stresses, reply'd Arabella gravely, yet I did not imagine myself such a Mirror of Calamity as could not be seen without Concern. If my Life has not been eminently fortunate, it has yet escap'd the great Evils of Persecution, Captivity, Shipwrecks and Dangers to which many Ladies far more Illustrious both by Birth and Merit than myself, have been expos'd. And indeed,

tho' I have sometimes rais'd Envy, or possibly incurr'd Hatred, yet I have no Reason to believe I was ever beheld with Pity before.

The Doctor saw he had not introduc'd his Discourse in the most acceptable Manner; but it was too late to repent.

Let me not, Madam, said he, be censur'd before I have fully explain'd my Sentiments.

That you have been envy'd, I can readily believe: For who that gives Way to natural Passions has not Reason to envy the Lady Ara∣bella? But that you have been hated, I am in∣deed less willing to think, tho' I know how ea∣sily the greater Part of Mankind hate those by whom they are excell'd.

If the Misery of my Condition, reply'd Arabella, has been able to excite that Melan∣choly your first. Words seem'd to imply, Flat∣tery will contribute very little towards the Im∣provement of it. Nor do I expect from the Severity of the Sacerdotal Character, any of those Praises, which I hear perhaps with too much Pleasure, from the rest of the World.

Having been so lately on the Brink of that State, in which all Distinctions but that of Good∣ness are destroy'd, I have not recover'd so much Laevity, but that I would yet rather hear In∣structions than Compliments.

If therefore you have observ'd in me any dangerous Tenets, corrupt Passions, or crimi∣nal Desires, I conjure you discover me to my∣self. Let no false Civility restrain your Admo∣nitions. Let me know this Evil which can

strike a good Man with Horror, and which I dread the more, as I do not feel it.

I cannot suppose that a Man of your Order would be alarm'd at any other Misery than Guilt: Nor will I think so meanly of him whose Di∣rection I have intreated, as to imagine he can think Virtue unhappy, however overwhelm'd by Disasters or Oppression.

Keep me therefore no longer in Suspence: I expect you will exert the Authority of your Function, and I promise you on my Part, Sin∣cerity and Submission.

The good Man was now compleatly embar∣rass'd; he saw his Meaning mistaken, but was afraid to explain it, left he should seem to pay Court by a cowardly Retraction: He therefore paus'd a little, and Arabella supposed he was studying for such Expressions as might convey Censure without Offence.

Sir, said she, if you are not yet satisfy'd of my Willingness to hear your Reproofs, let me evince my Docility, by intreating you to con∣sider yourself as dispens'd from all Ceremony upon this Occasion.

Your Imaginations, Madam, reply'd the Doctor, are too quick for Language; you con∣jecture too soon, what you do not wait to hear; and reason upon Suppositions which can∣not be allow'd you.

When I mention'd my Reflections upon hu∣man Misery, I was far from concluding your Ladyship miserable, compar'd with the rest of Mankind; and though contemplating the ab∣stracted

Idea of possible Felicity, I thought that even You might be produc'd as an Instance that it is not attainable in this World, I did not impute the Imperfection of your State to Wickedness, but intended to observe, That though even Virtue be added to external Ad∣vantages, there will yet be something wanting to Happiness.

Whoever sees you, Madam, will immedi∣ately say, That nothing can hinder you from being the happiest of Mortals, but Want of Power to understand your own Advantages. And whoever is admitted to your Conversation, will be convinc'd that you enjoy all that Intel∣lectual Excellence can confer; yet I see you harrass'd with innumerable Terrors and Per∣plexities, which never disturb the Peace of Po∣verty of Ignorance.

I cannot discover, said Arabella, how Po∣verty or Ignorance can be privileg'd from Ca∣sualty or Violence, from the Ravisher, the Robber, or the Enemy. I should hope rather that if Wealth and Knowledge can give no∣thing else, they at least confer Judgment to foresee Danger, and Power to oppose it.

They are not indeed, return'd the Doctor, secur'd against real Misfortunes, but they are happily defended from wild Imaginations: They do not suspect what cannot happen, nor figure Ravishers at a Distance, and leap into Rivers to escape them.

Do you suppose then, said Arabella, that I was frighted without Cause?

It is certain, Madam, reply'd he, that no Injury was intended you.

Disingennuity, Sir, said Arabella, does not become a Clergyman—I think too well of your Understanding to imagine your Fallacy de∣ceives yourself: Why then should you hope that it will deceive me?

The Laws of Conference require that the Terms of the Question and Answer be the same.

I ask, if I had not Cause to be frighted? Why then am I answer'd that no Injury was intended?

Human Beings cannot penetrate Intentions, nor regulate their Conduct but by exterior Appearances. And surely there was sufficient Appearance of intended Injury, and that the greatest which my Sex can suffer.

Why, Madam, said the Doctor, should you still persist in so wild an Assertion?

A coarse Epithet, said Arabella, is no Confutation. It rests upon you to shew, That in giving Way to my Fears, even supposing them groundless, I departed from the Character of a reasonable Person.

I am afraid, replied the Doctor, of a Di∣spute with your Ladyship, not because I think myself in Danger of Defeat, but be∣cause being accustom'd to speak to Scholars with Scholastick Ruggedness, I may perhaps depart in the Heat of Argument, from that Respect to which you have so great a Right, and give Offence to a Person I am really afraid to displease.

But, if you will promise to excuse my Ardour, I will endeavour to prove that you have been frighted without Reason.

I should be content, replied Arabella, to obtain Truth upon harder Terms, and there∣fore intreat you to begin.

The Apprehension of any future Evil, Ma∣dam, said the Divine, which is called Ter∣ror, when the Danger is from natural Causes, and Suspicion, when it proceeds from a mo∣ral Agent, must always arise from Compa∣rison.

We can judge of the Future only by the Past, and have therefore only Reason to fear or suspect, when we see the same Causes in Motion which have formerly produc'd Mis∣chief, or the same Measures taken as have before been preparatory to a Crime.

Thus, when the Sailor in certain Lati∣tudes sees the Clouds rise, Experience bids him expect a Storm. When any Monarch levies Armies, his Neighbours prepare to re∣pel an Invasion.

This Power of Prognostication, may, by Reading and Conversation, be extended be∣yond our own Knowledge: And the great Use of Books, is that of participating without Labour or Hazard the Experience of others.

But upon this Principle how can you find any Reason for your late Fright.

Has it ever been known, that a Lady of your Rank was attack'd with such Inten∣tions, in a Place so publick, without any

Preparations made by the Violator for Defence or Escape?

Can it be imagin'd that any Man would so rashly expose himself to Infamy by Failure, and to the Gibbet by Success?

Does there in the Records of the World appear a single Instance of such hopeless Vil∣lany?

It is now Time, Sir, said Arabella,, to an∣swer your Questions, before they are too many to be remembered.

The Dignity of my Birth can very little defend me against an Insult to which the Heiresses of great and powerful Empires, the Daughters of valiant Princes, and the Wives of renowned Monarchs, have been a thousand Times exposed.

The Danger which you think so great, would hardly repel a determin'd Mind; for in Effect, Who would have attempted my Re∣scue, seeing that no Knight or valiant Ca∣valier was within View?

What then should have hinder'd him from placing me in a Chariot? Driving it into the pathless Desart? And immuring me in a Castle, among Woods and Mountains? Or hiding me perhaps in the Caverns of a Rock? Or confining me in some Island of an immense Lake?

From all this, Madam, interrupted the Clergyman, he is hinder'd by Impossibility.

He cannot carry you to any of these dread∣ful Places, because there is no such Castle, Desart, Cavern, or Lake.

You will pardon me, Sir, said Arabella, it I recur to your own Principles:

You allow that Experience may be gain'd by Books: And certainly there is no Part of Knowledge in which we are oblig'd to trust them more than in Descriptive Geo∣graphy.

The most restless Activity in the longest Life, can survey but a small Part of the habitable Globe: And the rest can only be known from the Report of others.

Universal Negatives are seldom safe, and are least to be allow'd when the Disputes are about Objects of Sense; where one Po∣sition cannot be inferr'd from another.

That there is a Castle, any Man who has seen it may safely affirm. But you can∣not with equal Reason, maintain that there is no Castle, because you have not seen it.

Why should I imagine that the Face of the Earth is alter'd since the Time of those Heroines, who experienc'd so many Changes of uncouth Captivity?

Castles indeed, are the Works of Art; and are therefore subject to Decay. But Lakes, and Caverns, and Desarts, must always remain.

And why, since you call for Instances, should I not dread the Misfortunes which happen'd

to the divine Clelia, who was carry'd to one of the Isles of the Thrasymenian Lake?

Or those which befel the beautiful Candace, Queen of Ethiopia, whom the Pyrate Zeno∣donus wander'd with on the Seas?

Or the Accidents which imbitter'd the Life of the incomparable Cleopatra?

Or the Persecutions which made that of the fair Elisa miserable?

Or, in fine, the various Distresses of many other fair and virtuous Princesses: Such as those which happen'd to Olympia, Bellamira, Parisatis, Berenice, Amalagantha, Agione, Al∣bysinda, Placidia, A••sinoe, Deidamia, and a thousand others I could mention.

To the Names of many of these illustrious Sufferers I am an absolute Stranger, replied the Doctor.

The rest I saintly remember some Mention of in those contemptible Volumes, with which Children are sometimes injudiciously suffer'd to amuse their Imaginations; but which I little expected to hear quoted by your Ladyship in a serious Discourse.

And though I am very far from catching Occasions of Resentment, yet I think myself at Liberty to observe, That if I merited your Censure for one indelicate Epithet, we have engag'd on very unequal Terms, if I may not likewise complain of such contemptuous Ridicule as you are pleas'd to exercise upon my Opinions by opposing them with the Au∣thority of Scribblers, not only of Fictions,

but of senseless Fictions; which at once vi∣tiate the Mind, and pervert the Unstander∣standing; and which if they are at any Time read with Safety, owe their Innocence only to their Absurdity.

From these Books, Sir, said Arabella, which you condemn with so much Ardour, though you acknowledge yourself little acquainted with them, I have learnt not to recede from the Conditions I have granted, and shall not therefore censure the Licence of your Lan∣guage, which glances from the Books upon the Readers.

These Books, Sir, thus corrupt, thus ob∣surd, thus dangerous alike to the Intellect and Morals, I have read; and that I hope without Injury to my Judgment, or my Vir∣tue.

The Doctor, whose Vehemence had hin∣der'd him from discovering all the Consequen∣ces of his Position, now found himself entan∣gled, and reply'd in a submissive Tone,

I confess, Madam, my Words imply an Accusation very remote from my Intention.

It has always been the Rule of my Life, not to justify any Words or Actions because they mine.

I am asham'd of my Negligence, I am sorry for my Warmth, and intreat your Lady∣ship to pardon▪ a Fault which I hope never to repeat.

The Reparation, Sir, said Arabella smiling, over-balances the Offence, and by thus daring

to own you have been in the Wrong, you have rais'd in me a much higher Esteem for you.

Yet I will not pardon you, added she, without enjoining you a Penance for the Fault you own you have committed; and this Pe∣nance shall be to prove,

First, That these Histories you condemn are Fictions.

Next, That they are absurd.

And Lastly, That they are Criminal.

The Doctor was pleas'd to find a Reconci∣liation offer'd upon so very easy Terms, with a Person whom he beheld at once with Reve∣rence and Affection, and could not offend without extreme Regret.

He therefore answered with a very chearful Composure:

To prove those Narratives to be Fictions, Madam, is only difficult, because the Position is almost too evident for Proof.

Your Ladyship knows, I suppose to what Authors these Writings are ascrib'd?

To the French Wits of the last Century, said Arabella.

And at what Distance, Madam, are the Facts related in them from the Age of the Writer?

I was never exact in my Computation, re∣plied Arablela; but I think most of the Events happen'd about two thousand Years ago.

How then, Madam, resum'd the Doctor, could these Events be so minutely known to

Writers so far remote from the Time in which they happen'd?

By Records, Monuments, Memoirs, and Histories, answered the Lady.

But by what Accident, then, said the Doctor smiling, did it happen these Records and Mo∣numents were kept universally secret to Man∣kind till the last Century?

What brought all the Memoirs of the re∣motest Nations and earliest Ages only to France?

Where were they hidden that none could con∣sult them but a few obscure Authors?

And whither are they now vanished again that they can be found no more?

Arabella having sat silent a while, told him, That she found his Questions very difficult to be answer'd; and that though perhaps the Au∣thors themselves could have told whence they borrowed their Materials, she should not at present require any other Evidence of the first Assertion:

But allow'd him to suppose them Fictions, and requir'd now that he should shew them to be absurd.

Your Ladyship, return'd he, has, I find, too much Understanding to struggle against Demonstration, and too much Veracity to de∣ny your Convictions; therefore some of the Arguments by which I intended to shew the Falshood of these Narratives may be now used to prove their Absurdity.

You grant them, Madam, to be Fictions?

Sir, interrupted Arabella eagerly, You are again infringing the Laws of Disputation.

You are not to confound a Supposition of which I allow you only the present Use, with an unlimited and irrevocable Conces∣sion.

I am too well acquainted with my own Weakness to conclude an Opinion false, merely because I find myself unable to de∣fend it.

But I am in haste to hear the Proof of the other Positions, not only because they may perhaps supply what is deficient in your Evi∣dence of the first, but because I think it of more Importance to detect Corruption than Fiction.

Though indeed Falshood is a Species of Cor∣ruption, and what Falshood is more hateful than the Falshood of History.

Since you have drawn me back, Madam, to the first Question, returned the Doctor, Let me know what Arguments your Lady∣ship can produce for the Veracity of these Books.

That there are many Objections against it, you yourself have allowed, and the high∣est moral Evidence of Falshood appears when there are many Arguments against an Assertion, and none for it.

Sir, replied Arabella, I shall never think that any Narrative, which is not confuted by its own Absurdity, is without one Argument at least on its Side; there is a Love of Truth in the human Mind, if not naturally implanted, so easily obtained from Reason and Expe∣rience, that I should expect it universally to prevail where there is no strong Temptation to Deceit; we hate to be deceived, we therefore hate those that deceive us; we desire not to be hated, and therefore know that we are not to deceive. Shew me an equal Motive to Falshood, or confess that every Relation has some Right to Credit.

This may be allowed, Madam, said the Doc∣tor, when we claim to be credited, but that seems not to be the Hope or Intention of these Writers.

Surely Sir, replied Arabella, you must mis∣take their Design; he that writes without In∣tention to be credited, must write to little Pur∣pose; for what Pleasure or Advantage can a∣rise from Facts that never happened? What Examples can be afforded by the Patience of those who never suffered, or the Chastity of those who were never solicited? The great End of History, is to shew how much human Nature can endure or perform. When we hear a Story in common Life that raises our Wonder or Compassion, the first Confutation stills our Emotions, and however we were touched before, we then chase it from the Me∣mory with Contempt as a Trifle, or with In∣dignation as an Imposture. Prove, therefore, that the Books which I have hitherto read as

Copies of Life, and Models of Conduct, are empty Fictions, and from this Hour I deliver them to Moths and Mould; and from this Time consider their Authors as Wretches who cheated me of those Hours I ought to have dedicated to Application and Improvement, and betrayed me to a Waste of those Years in which I might have laid up Knowledge for my future Life.

Shakespear, said the Doctor, calls just Re∣sentment the Child of Integrity, and therefore I do not wonder, that what Vehemence the Gentleness of your Ladyship's Temper allows, should be exerted upon this Occasion. Yet though I cannot forgive these Authors for ha∣ving destroyed so much valuable Time, yet I cannot think them intentionally culpable, be∣cause I cannot believe they expected to be cre∣dited. Truth is not always injured by Fiction. An admirable* 1.2 Writer of our own Time, has found the Way to convey the most solid In∣structions, the noblest Sentiments, and the most exalted Piety, in the pleasing Dress of a† 1.3 No∣vel, and, to use the Words of the greatest‡ 1.4 Genius in the present Age,

Has taught the Passions to move at the Command of Vir∣tue.

The Fables of Aesop, though never I suppose believed, yet have been long consi∣dered as Lectures of moral and domestic Wisdom, so well adapted to the Faculties of Man, that they have been received by all civi∣lized Nations; and the Arabs themselves have honoured his Translator with the Appellation of Looman the Wise.

The Fables of Aesop, said Arabella, are a∣mong those of which the Absurdity discovers itself, and the Truth is comprised in the Ap∣plication; but what can be said of those Tales which are told with the solemn Air of histori∣cal Truth, and if false convey no Instruction?

That they cannot be defended Madam, said the Doctor, it is my Purpose to prove, and if to evince their Falshood be sufficient to procure their Banishment from your Ladyship's Closet, their Day of Grace is near an end. How is any oral, or written Testimony, confuted or confirmed?

By comparing it, says the Lady, with the Testimony of others, or with the natural Ef∣fects and standing Evidence of the Facts rela∣ted, and sometimes by comparing it with itself.

If then your Ladyship will abide by this last, returned he, and compare these Books with antient Histories, you will not only find innu∣merable Names, of which no Mention was ever made before, but Persons who lived in different Ages, engaged as the Friends or Ri∣vals of each other. You will perceive that your Authors have parcelled out the World at Discretion, erected Palaces, and established Monarchies wherever the Conveniency of their Narrative required them, and set Kings and Queens over imaginary Nations. Nor have they considered themselves as invested with less Authority over the Works of Nature, than the Institutions of Men; for they have distributed Mountains and Desarts, Gulphs and Rocks, wherever they wanted them, and whenever the Course of their Story required an Expedient,

raised a gloomy Forest, or overflowed the Re∣gions with a rapid Stream.

I suppose, said Arabella, you have no In∣tention to deceive me, and since, if what you have asserted be true, the Cause is undefensi∣ble, I shall trouble you no longer to argue on this Topic, but desire now to hear why, sup∣posing them Fictions, and intended to be re∣ceived as Fictions, you censure them as ab∣surd?

The only Excellence of Falshood, answered he, is its Resemblance to Truth; as therefore any Narrative is more liable to be confuted by its Inconsistency with known Facts, it is at a greater Distance from the Perfection of Fic∣tion; for there can be no Difficulty in framing a Tale, if we are left at Liberty to invert all History and Nature for our own Conveniency. When a Crime is to be concealed, it is easy to cover it with an imaginary Word. When Virtue is to be rewarded, a Nation with a new Name may, without any Ex∣pence of Invention, raise her to the Throne. When Ariosto was told of the Magnificence of his Palaces, he answered, that the Cost of po∣etical Architecture was very little; and still less is the Cost of Building without Art, than without Materials. But their historical Failures may be easily passed over, when we consider their physical or philosophical Absur∣dities; to bring Men together from different Countries does not shock with every inherent or demonstrable Absurdity, and therefore when we read only for Amusement, such Impropri∣eries may be born: But who can forbear to

throw away the Story that gives to one Man the Strength of Thousands; that puts Life or Death in a Smile or a Frown; that recounts Labours and Sufferings to which the Powers of Humanity are utterly unequal; that disfigures the whole Appearance of the World, and re∣presents every Thing in a Form different from that which Experience has shewn. It is the Fault of the best Fictions, that they teach young Minds to expect strange Adventures and sudden Vicissitudes, and therefore encou∣rage them often to trust to Chance. A long Life may be passed without a single Occur∣rence that can cause much Surprize, or pro∣duce any unexpected Consequence of great Importance; the Order of the World is so established, that all human Affairs proceed in a regular Method, and very little Opportunity is left for Sallies or Hazards, for Assault or Rescue; but the Brave and the Coward, the Sprightly and the Dull, suffer themselves to be carried alike down the Stream of Custom.

Arabella, who had for some Time listened with a Wish to interrupt him, now took Advantage of a short Pause. I cannot imagine, Sir, said she, that you intend to deceive me, and therefore I am inclined to believe that you are yourself mistaken, and that your Applica∣tion to Learning has hindered you from that Acquaintance with the World, in which these Authors excelled. I have not long conversed in Public, yet I have found that Life is sub∣ject to many Accidents. Do you count my late Escape for nothing? Is it to be numbered among daily and cursory Transactions, that a

Woman flies from a Ravisher into a rapid Stream?

You must not, Madam, said the Doctor, urge as an Argument the Fact which is at pre∣sent the Subject of Dispute.

Arabella blushing at the Absurdity she had been guilty of, and not attempting any Sub∣terfuge or Excuse, the Doctor found himself at Liberty to proceed:

You must not imagine, Madam, continued he, that I intend to arrogate any Superiority, when I observe that your Ladyship must suffer me to decide, in some Measure authoritatively, whether Life is truly described in those Books; the Likeness of a Picture can only be determin∣ed by a Knowledge of the Original. You have yet had little Opportunity of knowing the Ways of Mankind, which cannot be learned but from Experience, and of which the highest Understanding, and the lowest, must enter the World in equal Ignorance. I have lived long in a public Character, and have thought it my Duty to study those whom I have under∣taken to admonish or instruct. I have never been so rich as to affright Men into Disguise and Concealment, nor so poor as to be kept at a Distance too great for accurate Observa¦tion. I therefore presume to tell your Lady∣ship, with great Confidence, that your Wri∣ters have instituted a World of their own, and that nothing is more different from a human Being, than Heroes or Heroines.

I am afraid, Sir, said Arabella, that the Difference is not in Favour of the present World.

That, Madam, answered he your own Penetration will enable you to judge when it shall have made you equally acquainted with both: I have no desire to determine a Question, the Solution of which will give so little Pleasure to Purity and Benevolence.

The Silence of a Man who loves to praise is a Censure sufficiently severe, said the Lady. May it never happen that you should be unwilling to mention the Name of Arabella. I hope wherever Corruption prevails in the World, to live in it with Virtue, or, if I find myself too much endanger'd, to retire from it with Innocence. But if you can say so little in Commendation of Mankind, how will you prove these Histories to be vicious, which if they do not describe real Life, give us an Idea of a better Race of Beings than now inhabit the World.

It is of little Importance, Madam, replied the Doctor, to decide whether in the real or fictitious Life, most Wickedness is to be found. Books ought to supply an Antidote to Example, and if we retire to a contem∣plation of Crimes, and continue in our Closets to inflame our Passions, at what time must we rectify our Words, or purify our Hearts? The immediate Tendency of these Books which your Ladyship must allow me to mention with some Severity, is to give new Fire to the Passions of Revenge and Love; two Passions which, even without such power∣ful Auxiliaries, it is one of the severest La∣bours of Reason and Piety to suppress, and which yet must be suppressed if we hope to be

approved in the Sight of the only Being where Approbation can make us Happy. I am afraid your Ladyship will think me too serious.—I have already learned too much from you, said Arabella, to presume to instruct you, yet suffer me to caution you ne∣ver to dishonour your sacred Office by the Low∣liness of Apologies. Then let me again ob∣serve, resumed he, that these Books soften the Heart to Love, and harden it to Murder. that they teach Women to exact Ven∣geance, and Men to execute it; teach Women to expect not only Worship, but the dteadful Worship of human Sacrifices. Every Page of these Volumes is filled with such extravagance of Praise, and expressions of Obedience as one human Being ought not to hear from another; or with Accounts of Battles, in which thousands are slaughtered for no other Purpose than to gain a Smile from the haughty Beauty, who sits a calm Spectatress of the Ruin and De∣solation, Bloodshed and Misery, incited by herself.

It is impossible to read these Tales with out lessening part of that Humility, which by preserving in us a Sense of our Alliance with all human nature, keeps us awake to Ten∣derness and Sympathy, or without impairing that Compassion which is implanted in us as an Incentive to Acts of Kindness. If there be any preserved by natural Softness, or early Education from learning Pride and Cruelty, they are yet in danger of being betrayed to the Vanity of Beauty, and taught the Arts of Intrigue.

Love, Madam, is, you know, the Business, the sole Business of Ladies in Romances. Arabella's Blushes now hinder'd him from proceeding as he had intended. I perceive, continued, he that my Arguments begin to be less agreeable to your Ladyship's Delicacy, I shall therefore insist no longer upon false Tenderness of Sentiment, but proceed to those Outrages of the violent Passions which, though not more dangerous, are more generally hateful.

It is not necessary, Sir, interrupted Arabella, that you strengthen by any new Proof a Posi∣tion which when calmly considered cannot be denied; my Heart yields to the Force of Truth, and I now wonder how the Blaze of Enthu∣siastic Bravery, could hinder me from remark∣ing with Abhorrence the Crime of deliberate unnecessary Bloodshed.

I begin to perceive that I have hitherto at least trifled away my Time, and fear that I have already made some Approaches to the Crime of encouraging Violence and Revenge. I hope, Madam, said the good Man with Horror in his Looks, that no Life was ever lost by your In∣citement. Arabella seeing him thus moved, burst into Tears, and could not immediately answer. Is it possible, cried the Doctor, that such Gentleness and Elegance should be stained with Blood? Be not too hasty in your Censure, said Arabella, recovering herself, I tremble in∣deed to think how nearly I have apprroached the Brink of Murder, when I thought myself only consulting my own Glory; but whatever I suffer, I will never more demand or instigate Vengeance, nor consider my Punctilios as

important enough to be ballanced against Life.

The Doctor confirmed her in her new Re∣solutions, and thinking Solitude was necessary to compose her Spirits after the Fatigue of so long a Conversation, be retired to acquaint Mr Glanville with his Success, who in the Trans∣port of his Joy was almost ready to throw himself at his Feet, to thank him for the Miracle, as he called it, that he had performed.

CHAP. XII.

In which the History is concluded.

MR Glanville, who fancied to himself the most ravishing Delight from conversing with his lovely Cousin, now recovered to the free Use of all her noble Powers of Reason, would have paid her a Visit that afternoon, had not a moments Reflection convinced him that now was the Time, when her Mind was labouring under the force of Conviction, to introduce the repentant Sir George to her, who by confessing the ridiculous Farce he had invented to deceive her, might restore him to her good Opinion, and add to the Doctor's solid Arguments the poignant Sting of Ri∣dicule which she would then perceive she had incurred.

Sir George being now able to leave his Cham∣ber, and Arabella well enough recovered to admit a Visit in hers, Mr Glanville intreated his Father to wait on her, and get Permission

for Sir George to attend her upon a Business of some Consequence. Sir Charles no sooner mentioned this Request, than Arabella after a little Hesitation complied with it. As she had been kept a Stranger to all the Particulars of Mr Glanville's Quarrels with the young Baronet, her Thoughts were a little perplex'd concerning the Occasion of this Visit, and her Embarrassment was considerably increased by the Confusion which she perceived in the Countenance of Sir George. It was not without some Tokens of a painfully supprest Reluctance that Sir George consented to per∣form his Promise, when Mr Glanville claim'd it, but the Disadvantages that would attend his Breach of it, dejected and humbled as he now was, presenting themselves in a forcible manner to his Imagination, confirmed his wavering Resolutions. And since he found himself obliged to be his own Accuser, he en∣deavoured to do it with the best Grace he could. Acknowledging therefore to Lady Bella all the Artifices her Deception by Ro∣mances had given him Encouragement to use upon her, and explaining very explicitly the last with relation to the pretended Princess of Gaul, he submissively asked her Pardon for the Offence it would now give her, as well as for the Trouble it had formerly.

Arabella struck with inconceivable Cnfusion, having only bowed her Head to his Apology desi∣red to be left alone, and continued for near two Hours afterwards wholly absorb'd in the most disagreeable Reflections on the Absurdity of her past Behaviour, and the Contempt and Ri∣dicule

to which she now saw plainly she had exposed herself. The Violence of these first Emotions having at length subsided, she sent for Sir Charles, and Mr. Glanville, and having with a noble Ingenuity expatiated upon the Follies her vitiated Judgment had led her into, she apologized to the first, for the frequent Causes she had given him of Uneasiness; and, turning to Mr. Glanville, whom she beheld with a Look of mingled Tenderness and Mo∣desty, To give you myself, with all my re∣maining Imperfections, is making you but a poor Present in return for the Obligations your generous Affection has laid me under to you; yet since I am so happy as to be desired for a Partner for Life by a Man of your Sense and Honour, I will endeavour to make myself as worthy as I am able of such a favourable Di∣stinction.

Mr. Glanville kissed the Hand she gave him with an emphatic Silence, while Sir Charles, in the most obliging Manner imaginable, thanked her for the Honour she conferred both on himself and Son by this Alliance.

Sir George, entangled in his own Artifices, saw himself under a Necessity of confirming the Promises he had made to Miss Glanville during his Fit of Penitence, and was accordingly mar∣ried to that young Lady, at the same Time that Mr. Glanville and Arabella were united.

We chuse, Reader, to express this Circum∣stance, though the same, in different Words, as well to avoid Repetition, as to intimate that the first mentioned Pair were indeed only mar∣ried

in the common Acceptation of the Word; that is, they were privileged to join Fortunes, Equipages, Titles, and Expence; while Mr. Glanville and Arabella were united, as well in these, as in every Virtue and laudable Affec∣tion of the Mind.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  This Enigmatical Way of speaking upon such Occasions, is of great Use in the voluminous French Romances; since the Doubt and Confusion it is the Cause of, both to the Accus'd and Accuser, gives Ris•• to a great Number of succeding Mistakes, and consequently Adventures.
• * 1.2

  Richardson.
• † 1.3

  Clarissa.
• ‡ 1.4

  The Author of the Ra••bler.