er!" cried the hypocritical projector, who by this time
perceived that his money was not thrown away, "if I could be favoured
but for one half hour with the private instruction of that inspired
devotee, my mind presages, that I should be a strayed sheep brought
back into the fold, and that I should find easy entrance at the gates of
heaven! There is something supernatural in her aspect: I gaze upon her
with the most pious fervour, and my whole soul is agitated with tumults
of hope and despair!"

Having pronounced this rhapsody with transport half natural and half
affected, the priest assured him, that these were the operations of the
Spirit, which must not be repressed; and comforted him with the hope of
enjoying the blessed interview which he desired, protesting, that, as
far as his influence extended, his wish should be that very evening
indulged. The gracious pupil thanked him for his benevolent concern,
which he swore should not be squandered upon an ungrateful object; and
the rest of the company interrupting the conversation, they returned in
a body to the inn, where they dined all together, and the ladies were
persuaded to be our hero's guests.

As the subjects on which they had been engaged before dinner were not
exhausted, each brace resumed their former theme when they were replaced
in the diligence. The painter's mistress finished her conquest, by
exerting her skill in the art of ogling, accompanied by frequent
bewitching sighs and some tender French songs, that she sang with such
pathetic expression, as quite melted the resolution of Pallet, and
utterly subdued his affection. And he, to convince her of the importance
of her victory, gave a specimen of his own talents, by entertaining her
with that celebrated English ditty, the burden of which begins with,
"The pigs they lie with their a--s bare."

CHAPTER LIII.

He makes some Progress in her Affections--Is interrupted by a Dispute
between Jolter and the Jew--Appeases the Wrath of the Capuchin, who
procures for him an interview with his fair Enslaver, in which he finds
himself deceived.

Peregrine, meanwhile, employed all his insinuation and address in
practising upon the heart of the Capuchin's fair charge. He had long ago
declared his passion, not in the superficial manner of a French gallant,
but with all the ardour of an enthusiast. He had languished, vowed,
flattered, kissed her hand by stealth, and had no reason to complain
of his recepti