declare
his pretensions, and if he is unsuccessful, he will then condemn himself
to eternal silence."

Lady Emma knew not what to think of this declaration; she hoped, she
feared, she meditated; but her attention was too strongly excited to
be satisfied without some gratification; After a pause, she pursued the
subject.

"And this friend of yours, sir, of what degree and fortune is he?"

Edmund smiled; but, commanding his emotion, he replied, "His birth is
noble, his degree and fortune uncertain."

Her countenance fell, she sighed; he proceeded. "It is utterly
impossible," said he, "for any man of inferior degree to aspire to Lady
Emma's favour; her noble birth, the dignity of her beauty and virtues,
must awe and keep at their proper distance, all men of inferior degree
and merit; they may admire, they may revere; but they must not presume
to approach too near, lest their presumption should meet with its
punishment."

"Well, sir," said she, suddenly; "and so this friend of yours has
commissioned you to speak in his behalf?"

"He has, Madam."

"Then I must tell you, that I think his assurance is very great, and
yours not much less."

"I am sorry for that, Madam."

"Tell him, that I shall reserve my heart and hand for the man to whom my
father shall bid me give them."

"Very well, Lady; I am certain my lord loves you too well to dispose of
them against your inclination."

"How do you know that, sir? But tell him, that the man that hopes for my
favour must apply to my lord for his."

"That is my friend's intention--his resolution, I should say--as soon as
he can do it with propriety; and I accept your permission for him to do
so."

"My permission did you say? I am astonished at your assurance! tell me
no more of your friend; But perhaps you are pleading for Wenlock all
this time; It is all one to me; only, say no more."

"Are you offended with me, madam?"

"No matter, sir."

"Yes, it is."

"I am surprised at you, Edmund."

"I am surprised at my own temerity; but, forgive me."

"It does not signify; good bye ty'e, sir."

"Don't leave me in anger, madam; I cannot bear that. Perhaps I may not
see you again for a long time."

He looked afflicted; she turned back. "I do forgive you, Edmund; I
was concerned for you; but, it seems, you are more concerned for every
body than for yourself." She sighed; "Farewell!" said she.

Edmund gazed on her with tenderness; he approached her, he just touched
h