eart by
that winning mildness, and the favourable display of those complicated
and superior attractions which she must have known were irresistible?
And now she would have me dance attendance to her decision in favour of
another--insulting; let Bonville and herself make it, as they have
formed this farcical decision. I absolutely will never attend it. Why
did she not spurn me from her confidence, and plainly tell me that my
attentions were untimely and improper?

[_A&M_:

"And why have I ever doubted this event? [said Alonzo.] What
infatuation hath thus led me on the pursuit of fantastic and unreal
bliss? I have had, it is true, no positive assurance that Melissa
would favor my addresses. But why did she ever receive them? Why did
she enchantingly smile upon me? Why fascinate the tender powers of
my soul by that winning mildness, and the favorable display of those
complicated and superior attractions which she must have known were
irresistible? Why did she not spurn me from her confidence, and
plainly tell me that my attentions were untimely and improper?--And
now she would have me dance attendance to her decision, in favor of
Beauman--Insulting! Let Beauman and she make, as they have formed,
this farcical decision; I absolutely will never attend it.]

But, I have engaged to see her at an appointed time; my honour is
therefore pledged for an interview; it must take place. I shall
endeavour to support it with becoming dignity, and I will convince Alida
and Bonville, that I am not the dupe of their caprices. But, let me
consider--What has Alida done to deserve censure or reproach? Her
brother was my early friend; she has treated me as a friend to that
brother. She was unconscious of the affection which her charms and
mental graces had kindled in my bosom. Her evident embarrassment, on
receiving my declaration, witnessed her surprise and prior attachment.
What could she do to save herself the pain of a direct denial? She has
appointed a day when her refusal may come in a more delicate and formal
manner--and I must therefore meet it.

[_A&M_:

--But stop:--I have engaged to see her at an appointed time; my
honor is therefore pledged for an interview; it must take place. I
shall support it with becoming dignity, and I will convince Melissa
and Beauman that I am not the dupe of their caprices. But let me
consider--What has Melissa done to deserve censure or reproach? Her
brot