o Gertrude, it was only in her
presence, or under such circumstances that he was sure it would reach
her ears, that he manifested a marked interest in Kitty; and his
behaviour was, therefore, in the highest degree, unequal, leading the
warm-hearted Kitty to believe one moment that he felt for her almost the
tenderness of a lover, and the next to suffer under the apprehension of
having unconsciously wounded or offended him. Unfortunately, too, Mrs.
Graham took every opportunity to congratulate her upon her conquest,
thereby increasing the simple girl's confidence in the sincerity of Mr.
Bruce's admiration.

Gertrude, whose eyes were soon opened to the existing state of things,
was filled with apprehension on account of Kitty, for whose peace and
welfare she felt great concern. The suspicions to which Mr. Bruce's
conduct gave rise were soon strengthened into convictions; for, on
several occasions, after he had offered Kitty proofs of devotion, he
tested their effect upon Gertrude by some attention to herself;
intimating that she had it in her power to rob Kitty of all claim upon
his favour.

Gertrude availed herself of every opportunity to acquaint him with the
truth, that he could not render himself more odious in her eyes than by
the use of such mean attempts to mortify her; but attributing her warmth
to jealousy, which he desired to excite, the selfish young man
persevered in his course of wickedness. As he only proffered his
attentions, and made no offer of his heart and hand, Kitty, having
forgotten that she had a few weeks back looked upon Gertrude as a rival,
now chose her for her bosom friend; and the transparency of her
character was such that she betrayed her secret to Gertrude. Though no
one but Gertrude appeared to observe it, Kitty was wonderfully
changed;--the gay, laughing, careless Kitty had now her fits of
musing--her sunny face was subject to clouds, that flitted across it,
and robbed it of all its brightness. If she found Gertrude sitting alone
in her room she would approach, throw her arm around her, and talk on
her favourite topic. She would relate the complimentary speeches and
polite attentions of Mr. Bruce, talk about him for an hour, and question
Gertrude as to her opinion of his merits. She would ask if Gertrude
really supposed he meant all he said, and add, that of course she didn't
believe he did--it was all nonsense. And if Gertrude avowed the same
opinion, and declared it was best not to tr