e gift of the fairy secured her from any anxious wish to
do so.--Though she occasionally obtained notice from those whom she met
in the parties in which she mixed, for no one could fail to feel
courtesy towards so mild and inoffensive a being, she was aware that she
was considered as little more than a cypher by the side of her cousins,
but she was not liable to discontent, and repined not at the
observation.

Adrian had been too much occupied by his lively companions to think of
making inquiries after the objects of his bounty, but a long list was
brought him by Gabriel of mendicants, who had been relieved, which
amounted to a sum that astonished him. Is it possible, said he, there
can be so many unfortunate creatures in want? It is well the fairy has
supplied me so liberally, or I might soon come to be in want myself, but
I think, he proudly added, she must be satisfied with my manner of
employing my wealth. One day a person desired to be admitted to him, who
told him a long pitiful story of his being reduced from easy
circumstances by a rich and powerful man, who in revenge for some
offence he had given him, had contrived his ruin, and driven him with a
large helpless family to beggary. The natural good disposition of Adrian
was manifested at this recital. He exclaimed, with honest warmth against
such shameful cruelty, and gave the man a large sum of money to
alleviate his unmerited misfortune. The petitioner was profuse in his
acknowledgments, expatiated on the benefit of riches, when entrusted in
such hands, and retired invoking a thousand blessings on his benefactor.

Adrian felt all the satisfaction of the most approving self-complacency.
Excellent Felicia, he exclaimed aloud, your's is indeed a most precious
gift, to be enabled to perform such actions, and merit such gratitude,
and I flatter myself you will allow that I have strictly obeyed your
injunctions!

The next day Gabriel informed him that he had discovered the person to
be a worthless impostor, who had ruined himself by extravagance and
profligacy, and in return for Adrian's generosity, had gone about making
a jest of his credulity. Adrian uttered the most vehement expressions of
resentment and indignation. To find himself only a dupe when he had
thought himself a pattern of benevolence, was a sore check upon his self
applause, and he formed many prudent resolutions to be more upon his
guard in future. Some days after, in passing through his grounds,