ill be concerned. But if she has
love, let it have been pushed ever so far back, it will, on this
occasion, come forward, and show itself; not only in her eye, but in
every line of her sweet face.

I will be very intrepid. I will not fear death, or any thing else. I
will be sure of being well in an hour or two, having formerly found great
benefit by this astringent medicine, on occasion of an inward bruise by a
fall from my horse in hunting, of which perhaps this malady may be the
remains. And this will show her, that though those about me may make the
most of it, I do not; and so can have no design in it.

Well, methinks thou sayest, I begin to think tolerably of this device.

I knew thou wouldst, when I explained myself. Another time prepare to
wonder; and banish doubt.

Now, Belford, I shall expect, that she will show some concern at the
broken vessel, as it may be attended with fatal effects, especially to
one so fiery in his temper as I have the reputation to be thought to be:
and the rather, as I shall calmly attribute the accident to the harasses
and doubts under which I have laboured for some time past. And this will
be a further proof of my love, and will demand a grateful return--

And what then, thou egregious contriver?

Why then I shall have the less remorse, if I am to use a little violence:
for can she deserve compassion, who shows none?

And what if she shows a great deal of concern?

Then shall I be in hopes of building on a good foundation. Love hides a
multitude of faults, and diminishes those it cannot hide. Love, when
acknowledged, authorizes freedom; and freedom begets freedom; and I shall
then see how far I can go.

Well but, Lovelace, how the deuce wilt thou, with that full health and
vigour of constitution, and with that bloom in thy face, make any body
believe thou art sick?

How!--Why, take a few grains of ipecacuanha; enough to make me reach like
a fury.

Good!--But how wilt thou manage to bring up blood, and not hurt thyself?

Foolish fellow! Are there no pigeons and chickens in every poulterer's
shop?

Cry thy mercy.

But then I will be persuaded by Mrs. Sinclair, that I have of late
confined myself too much; and so will have a chair called, and be carried
to the Park; where I will try to walk half the length of the Mall, or so;
and in my return, amuse myself at White's or the Cocoa.

And what will this do?

Questioning again!--I am afraid thou'rt an infidel, Be