on-- it was George's last gift. Where was he now? What
dangers he must have encountered, what hardships endured; and what
might he not yet have to suffer before he returned, if indeed he
ever should return-- she had not heard from him in a long time; and
when he last wrote he was ignorant of her father's failure. Would he
be faithful to his plight in this reverse of fortune?]

Thus meditated Alida. At length she articulated in a calmer tone, and
her feelings became more composed.

Infinite Ruler of events! Great Sovereign of this ever-changing
world! Omnipotent Controller of vicissitudes! Omniscient Dispenser of
destinies! In thy hands are all things terrestrial, and the condition
of our lives are at thy disposal. The beginning, the progression, and
the end is thine. Unsearchable are thy purposes!-- mysterious thy
movements!-- inscrutable thy operations! Thy will must be done. To
bow in submission to thy decrees, is right:-- for we are unable to
scrutinize the past, and incompetent to explore the future.

[_A&M_ (Alonzo speaking):

Infinite Ruler of all events; Great Sovereign of this ever changing
world! Omnipotent Controller of vicissitudes! Omniscient Dispenser
of destinies! The beginning, the progression, the end is thine.
Unsearchable are thy purposes! mysterious thy movements! inscrutable
thy operations! An atom of thy creation, wildered in the mazes of
ignorance and woe, would bow to thy decrees. Surrounded with
impenetrable gloom, unable to scrutinize the past, incompetent to
explore the future--]

Alida had lived retired since she had been in town, although in the
midst of gay scenes of every description. The acquaintance she had made
were few. Her second mother had no relatives there, except her sister's
children, which formed a principal part of her society.

[[_Alida_ page 105 (chapter XIII), referring to Alida's "second
mother", says that "her many excellent qualities had endeared her to
numerous friends and acquaintances".]]

Her oldest nephew was about twenty-five years of age. The personal
appearance of Mr. Bolton was highly prepossessing. He was particularly
distinguished for his genuine politeness, affability, and witticism.

He inherited a considerable patrimony from his grandfather, which proved
to be a disadvantage, as it prevented him from applying himself to any
particular occupation. Since his aunt's marriage, and his acquaintance
with Alida, his