got
the start of your lordship." He made no answer to my repartee, but
with a contemptuous smile walked off, leaving me in a very disagreeable
situation. In vain did I make up to several people of my acquaintance,
whose conversation, I hoped, would banish my confusion; everybody
shunned me like a person infected, and I should not have been able
to bear my disgrace, had not the idea of the ever faithful and fond
Narcissa come to my relief. I quitted the scene of my mortification,
and, sauntering about the town, happened to wake from my contemplation,
when I found myself just opposite to a toy-shop, which I entered, and
purchased a ring set with a ruby in the form of a heart, surrounded by
diamond sparks, for which I paid ten guineas, intending it for a present
to the charmer of my soul.

I was introduced, at the hour appointed, to this divine creature, who,
notwithstanding what she had heard to my disadvantage, received me with
the utmost confidence and tenderness; and, having been informed of the
general sketches of my life by Miss Williams, expressed a desire,
of knowing the particular circumstances, which I related with great
candour, omitting, however, some things which I concluded altogether
improper for her ear, and which the reader's reflection will easily
suggest. As my story was little else than a recital of misfortunes, the
tear of sympathy ceased not to trickle from her enchanting eyes during
the whole of the narration, which, when I had finished, she recompensed
me for my trouble with the most endearing protestations of eternal love.
She bewailed her restricted condition, as it was the means of retarding
my happiness; told me that Lord Quiverwit, by her brother's permission,
had been to drink tea with her that very afternoon, and actually
proposed marriage; and, seeing me extremely affected with this piece of
information, offered to give me a convincing proof of her affection, by
espousing me in private, and leaving the rest to fate. I was penetrated
with this instance of her regard, but, that I might not be outdone in
generosity, resisted the bewitching temptation in consideration of her
honour and interest; at the same time I presented my ring as a pledge
of my inviolable attachment, and, on my knees, implored Heaven to shower
its curses on my head, if ever my heart should entertain one thought
unworthy of the passion I then avowed. She received my token, gave me in
return her picture in miniature, exquisit