n
my power; and yet my hopes began to revive a little, when I considered,
that, by carrying on the appearance of an intrigue with the duenna,
I might possibly obtain access to her charge. Encouraged by this
suggestion, my temper grew more serene, my reserve wore off, I talked
en cavalier, and even made love to this antiquated coquette, who seemed
extremely happy in her adorer, and spread all her allurements to make
her imagined conquest more secure. The good woman of the house treated
us with tea and sweetmeats, and afterwards withdrew, like a civil
experienced matron as she was.

Left thus to our mutual endearments, Miss Withers (for she was still a
maiden) began to talk of matrimony, and expressed so much impatience
in all her behaviour that, had she been fifty years younger, I might
possibly have gratified her longing without having recourse to the
church; but this step my virtue as well as interest forbade. When the
inclinations of an old maid settle upon a young fellow, he is persecuted
with her addresses; but, should he once grant her the favour, he
will never be able to disentangle himself from her importunities
and reproaches. It was my business to defer the ceremony as long as
possible, under the most specious pretences, with a view of becoming
acquainted with Miss Sparkle in the meantime; and I did not despair of
success, when I considered, that in the course of our correspondence,
I should I all probability be invited to visit my mistress in her own
apartment, and by these means have an opportunity of conversing with her
charming ward. Pleased with this prospect, my heart dilated with joy;
I talked in raptures to the state governante, and kissed her shrivelled
hand with great devotion, She was so much transported with her good
fortune, that she could not contain her ecstacy, but flew upon me like
a tigress, and pressed her skinny lips to mine; when (as it was no doubt
concerted by her evil genius) a dose of garlic she had swallowed that
morning, to dispel wind, I suppose, began to operate with such a sudden
explosion, that human nature, circumstanced as I was, could not endure
the shock with any degree of temper. I lost all patience and reflection,
flung away from her in an instant, snatched my hat and cane, and ran
downstairs as if the devil had me in pursuit, and could scarcely retain
the convulsion of my bowels, which were grievously offended by the
perfume that assaulted me. Strap, who waited my return wi