would be the scene when debarred from the unreserved
friendship and conversation of Alida. And unreserved it could not be,
were she not exclusively mistress of herself. But was there not
something of a more refined texture than friendship in his predilection
for the company of Alida? If so, why not avow it? His prospects, his
family, and of course his pretensions might not be inferior to those of
Bonville.

[_A&M_:

How different would be the scene when debarred from the unreserved
friendship and conversation of Melissa! And unreserved it could not
be, were she not exclusively mistress of herself. But was there not
something of a more refined texture than friendship in his
predilection for the company of Melissa? If so, why not avow it? His
prospects, his family, and of course his pretensions might not be
inferior to those of Beauman.]

But perhaps he was preferred. His opportunities: his prior acquaintance
with the lady. Distance was no barrier to his addresses. His visits
became more and more frequent. Was it not then highly probable that he
had gained her affections?

[_A&M_:

But perhaps Beauman was preferred--His opportunities had been
greater--He had formed an acquaintance with her. Distance proved no
barrier to his addresses. His visits became more and more frequent.
Was it not then highly probable that he had secured her affections?]

Thus reasoned Theodore, but the reasoning tended not to allay the
tempest that was gathering in his bosom. He ordered his carriage, and
was in a short time at the seat of Alida's father. It was summer, and
towards evening when he arrived. Alida was sitting by the window when he
entered the hall. She arose and received him with a smile. I have just
been thinking of an evening's walk, said she, but had no one to attend
me, and you have come just in time to perform that office. I will order
tea immediately, while you rest from the fatigues of your journey.

[_A&M_:

Thus reasoned Alonzo, but the reasoning tended not to allay the
tempest which was gathering in his bosom. He ordered his horse, and
was in a short time at the seat of Melissa's father.

It was summer, and towards evening when he arrived, Melissa was
sitting by the window when he entered the hall. She arose and
received him with a smile. "I have just been thinking of an
evening's walk, (said she) but had no one to attend me, and you
have come just in time to per