, and that, if his lady and I would
use our interest in his behalf, he did not doubt that she would listen
to his addresses. Surprised at this proposal, I asked if he knew the
story of that unfortunate young gentlewoman; upon which he replied,
"Yes, yes, I know what you mean--she has been unhappy, I grant you--but
what of that? I am convinced of her reformation; or else you and my good
lady would not treat her with such respect. As for the censure of the
world, I value it not a fig's end--besides, the world knows nothing of
the matter." I commended his philosophy, and interested Narcissa in
his cause; who interceded so effectually, that in a little time Miss
Williams yielded her consent, and they were married at the approbation of
Don Rodrigo, who gave him five hundred pounds to stock a farm, and made
him overseer of his estate. My generous bedfellow gave her maid the same
sum; so that they live in great peace and plenty within half-a-mile of
us, and daily put up prayers for our preservation.

If there be such a thing as true happiness on earth, I enjoy it. The
impetuous transports of my passion are now settled and mellowed into
endearing fondness and tranquillity of love, rooted by that intimate
connection and interchange of hearts which nought but virtuous wedlock
can produce. Fortune seems determined to make ample amends for her
former cruelty, for my proctor writes that, notwithstanding the clause
in my father-in-law's will, on which the squire founds his claim, I
shall certainly recover my wife's fortune, in consequence of a codicil
annexed, which explains that clause, and limits her restriction to the
age of nineteen, after which she was at her own disposal. I would
have set out for London immediately after receiving this piece of
intelligence, but my dear angel has been qualmish of late, and begins to
grow remarkably round in the waist; so that I cannot leave her in such
an interesting situation, which I hope will produce something to crown
my felicity.

End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Adventures of Roderick Random, by
Tobias Smollett

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