perhaps, too unseasonably, said
Alonzo. It is however, the fault of Vincent:--he invited me to walk into
the room, but did not inform me that you were alone." "Your presence was
sudden and unexpected, but not unseasonable, replied Melissa. I hope
that you did not consider any formality necessary in your visits,
Alonzo."

Alonzo. I once did not think so. Now I know not what to think--I know
not how to act. You have heard of the misfortunes of my father's family,
Melissa?

Mel. Yes; I have heard the circumstances attending that event--an event
in which no one could be more deeply interested, except the immediate
sufferers, than myself.

Al. Your father is also acquainted with my present situation?

Mel. He is.

Al. How did he receive the intelligence?

Mel. With deep regret.

Al. And forbade you to admit my addresses any longer?

Mel. No, not absolutely.

Al. If even in an unqualified or indirect manner, it is proper I should
know it.

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 honourably 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 unable to support you,
would be hazardous in the extreme. The marriage day 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 either poverty or reproach upon yourself or your
connexions." Thus spake my father, and immediately withdrew.

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

"It is diff