ch, fervently clasped the
passive hands of her repentant lover, and tenderly pressed them to her
throbbing bosom. But those transports beat coldly responsive within the
breast of Don Lope; for pity and a sense of duty are but poor and
inadequate substitutes for the glow of passion. Still, however,
recollection brought to his fancy raptures past and endearments since
flown; and memory perhaps made him cherish the present by vividly
recalling the past. But it was like the melancholy regretful pleasure
which is experienced by one who revisits the scenes of his childhood. He
may indulge in the recollection of those departed joys, but his mind is
estranged by other feelings, and can no longer enjoy those pleasures
which formerly constituted his happiness.

The morning was now fast approaching, and a separation became
indispensable.--Theodora made a hasty recital of her adventures and
withdrew, replete with returning joy; for she had passed a few moments
with greater delight than perhaps she could ever again experience in
this world--those blissful moments when hearts severed by destiny, or
alienated by misfortune, again unite in the genuine bonds of revived
affection.

CHAPTER X.

Oh! what a jewel is a woman excellent!

_Beaumont._

Mais qu'aisement l'amour croit tout ce qu'il souhaite!

_Racine._

I humbly offer my advice (but still
Under correction), I hope I shall not
Incur your high displeasure.

_Massinger._

Oh, Woman! lovely devoted Woman! Of what mysterious particles could
nature have formed so strange a being--made up, as it were, of
contradictions, and yet deriving from that very inconsistency its
principal attraction. Uncertain and wavering, but amiable in that very
weakness. When impelled by affection or smarting under highly excited
feelings of injury, thou art capable of the most noble enthusiasm, or
the darkest exhibitions of passion. Man, proudly arrogating to himself
a despotic sway over the higher walks of intellect, and the wild and
luxuriant fields of imagination, has left thee undisputed sovereign of
the empire of the heart! He is often happy to avail himself of that more
delicate discrimination, an instinctive feeling with which nature has
gifted thee, though jealous of permitting thee to share in his power.
Woman! thou wert born to grace and smooth the rugged path of life; the
advancement of one