l.

"I should bid thee honour thy father, Japhet," replied Mrs Cophagus,
"and you, Susannah--"

"I shall bid thee good night, Japhet."

At this reply we all laughed, and I perceived there was a smile on
Susannah's face as she walked away. Mrs Cophagus followed her,
laughing as she went, and Cophagus and I were alone.

"Well, Japhet--see old gentleman--kiss--shake hands--and blessing--and
so on."

"Yes, sir," replied I; "but if he treats me ill I shall probably come
down here again. I am afraid that Susannah is not very well pleased
with me."

"Pooh, nonsense--wife knows all--die for you--Japhet, do as you please--
dress yourself--dress her--any dress--no dress like Eve--sly puss--won't
lose you--all right--and so on."

I pressed Mr Cophagus to tell me all he knew, and I found from him that
his wife had questioned Susannah soon after my departure, had found her
weeping, and that she had gained from her the avowal of her ardent
affection for me. This was all I wanted, and I wished him good night,
and went to bed happy. I had an interview with Susannah Temple before I
left the next morning, and, although I never mentioned love, had every
reason to be satisfied. She was kind and affectionate; spoke to me in
her usual serious manner, warned me against the world, acknowledged that
I should have great difficulties to surmount, and even made much
allowance for my peculiar situation. She dared not advise, but she
would pray for me. There was a greater show of interest and confidence
towards me than I had ever yet received from her: when I parted from her
I said, "Dear Susannah, whatever change may take place in my fortunes or
in my dress, believe me, my heart shall not be changed, and I shall ever
adhere to those principles which have been instilled into me since I
have been in your company."

This was a phrase which admitted of a double meaning, and she replied,
"I should wish to see thee perfect, Japhet; but there is no perfection
now on earth; be therefore as perfect as you can."

"God bless you, Susannah."

"May the blessing of the Lord be on you always, Japhet," replied she.

I put my arm round her waist, and slightly pressed her to my bosom. She
gently disengaged herself, and her large eyes glistened with tears as
she left the room. In a quarter of an hour I was with Mr Masterton on
the road to London.

"Japhet," said the old gentleman, "I will say that you have been very
wise in your choice, and t