I was, my eyes were wildly fixed on them;
I stood eagerly on the utmost verge of the water, my arms stretched out
to receive her, my prayers ardently addressed to Heaven, when an
immense wave broke over the boat; I heard a general shriek; I even
fancied I distinguished my Louisa's cries; it subsided, the sailors
again exerted all their force; a second wave--I saw them no more.

"Never will that dreadful scene be absent one moment from my memory:
I fell senseless on the beach; when I returned to life, the first
object I beheld was the breathless body of my Louisa at my feet. Heaven
gave me the wretched consolation of rendering to her the last sad
duties. In that grave all my happiness lies buried. I knelt by her, and
breathed a vow to Heaven, to wait here the moment that should join me
to all I held dear. I every morning visit her loved remains, and
implore the God of mercy to hasten my dissolution. I feel that we shall
not long be separated; I shall soon meet her, to part no more."

He stopped, and, without seeming to remember he was not alone,
walked hastily towards a little oratory he has built on the beach, near
which is the grave of his Louisa; I followed him a few steps, I saw
him throw himself on his knees; and, respecting his sorrow, returned
to the house.

Though I cannot absolutely approve, yet I more than forgive, I
almost admire, his renouncing the world in his situation. Devotion is
perhaps the only balm for the wounds given by unhappy love; the heart
is too much softened by true tenderness to admit any common cure.

Seven in the evening.

I am returned to Madame Des Roches and her friends, who declined
visiting the hermit. I found in his conversation all which could have
adorned society; he was pleased with the sympathy I shewed for his
sufferings; we parted with regret. I wished to have made him a
present, but he will receive nothing.

A ship for England is in sight. Madame Des Roches is so polite to
send off this letter; we return to her house in the morning.

Adieu! my Lucy.
Yours,
Ed. Rivers.

LETTER 33.

To Miss Rivers, Clarges Street.

Quebec, Oct. 12.

I have no patience with this foolish brother of yours; he is
rambling about in the woods when we want him here: we have a most
agreeable assembly every Thursday at the General's, and have had
another ball since he has been gone on this ridiculous ramble; I miss
the dear creature wherever I go. We have nothing but