ed answer, but requested a
day or two for reflection; and the vicar, who recollected the adage,
that, in an affair of the heart, "the woman who deliberates is lost,"
left her with a happy presage that his endeavours would be crowned with
success. But Mrs Rainscourt would not permit her own heart to decide.
It was a case in which she did not consider that a woman was likely to
be a correct judge; and she had so long been on intimate terms with
McElvina, that she resolved to lay the case before him, and be guided by
his opinion.

The next day, Mrs Rainscourt went to the cottage alone, and having
requested Susan to exclude all visitors, entered into a full detail of
all the circumstances which had occurred previous to her separation from
her husband, and the decision that she was now called upon to make, from
his importunity.

Susan, who felt that she was unable to advise, in a case of such
importance to Mrs Rainscourt's future happiness, immediately referred
the matter to McElvina.

His answer was decided. "I should be sorry, Mrs Rainscourt, to give an
opinion in opposition to that of the worthy vicar, did I not conceive
that his slight knowledge of the world would, in this instance, tend to
mislead both himself and you. Before Mr Rainscourt had remained here a
week, I prophesied, as Susan will corroborate, that this proposal would
be made. Aware of his general character, and of the grounds of your
separation, I took some pains to ingratiate myself, that I might
ascertain his real sentiments; and, with regret I express my conviction,
that his prepossession in your favour, strong as it really is at
present, will but prove transitory, and that possession would only
subject you to future insults. He is _not_ reformed; but, satiated with
other enjoyments, and fascinated with your attractions, his feelings
towards you are those of renewed inclination, and not arising from
conviction, or remorse at his unprincipled career. You are happy at
present--your refusal may, by stimulating his attentions, increase your
happiness: but if you yield, it will only be a source of misery to you
both. Such is my opinion. Do not let him know that I have influenced
you, or it will interrupt an intimacy, which I shall follow up, I trust,
to your advantage; therefore, give no answer at present, nor while he
remains here: for I perceive that he is a violent man when thwarted in
his wishes. Demand a fortnight's consideration after he is