pects. By the failure of
Theodore's father, those prospects have become deeply darkened, if not
totally obliterated.

[_A&M_:

Mel. It certainly is. Soon after we received the intelligence of
your family misfortunes, my father came into the room where I was
sitting, "Melissa, (said he) your conduct has ever been that of a
dutiful child; mine of an indulgent parent. My first, my ultimate
wish, is to see my children, when settled in life, happy and
honorably respected. For this purpose, I have bestowed on them a
proper education, and design suitably to apportion my property
between them. On their part, it is expected they will act prudently
and discreetly, especially in those things which concern their
future peace and welfare; the principal requisite to ensure this is
a proper connexion in marriage." Here my father paused a
considerable time, and then continued, "I know, my child, that your
situation is a very delicate one. Your marriage day is appointed; it
was appointed under the fairest prospects; by the failure of
Alonzo's father, those prospects have become deeply darkened, if not
totally obliterated.]

To commit your fortune through life to a person in his present
circumstances, would be hazardous in the extreme. The day named can at
least be suspended; perhaps something more favourable may appear. At any
rate, I have too much confidence in your discretion to suppose that you
will, by any rash act, bring reproach either upon yourself or your
connexions.' Thus spake my father, and immediately withdrew.

[_A&M_:

"To commit your fortune through life, to a person unable to support
you, would be hazardous in the extreme. The marriage day can at
least be suspended; perhaps something more favorable may appear. At
any rate, I have too much confidence in your discretion, to suppose
that you will, by any rash act, bring either poverty or reproach
upon yourself or your connexions." Thus spake my father, and
immediately withdrew.]

"In our present dilemma," said Theodore, "what is proper to be done?"

[_A&M_:

In our present dilemma, (said Alonzo) what is proper to be done?]

"It is difficult to determine," answered Alida. "Should my father
expressly forbid our union, or to see each other at present, it is
probable he will carry his commands into effect. I would advise you to
call on him to-morrow with your usual freedom. Whatever may be the
event, I sha