lorn in a world too prone to take advantage of innocence and poverty: the asylum of a cloister was the only one I had means of procuring you; but to that you ever manifested a repugnance, and I could not therefore influence you to it; the free-will offering of the heart is alone acceptable to heaven: besides, I do not thoroughly approve such institutions; I think they are somewhat contrary to nature; and I can never believe that beings immured for life, can feel gratitude so ardent, piety so exalted to the Almighty, as those who, in the wide range of the world, have daily opportunities of exploring his wonders, experiencing his goodness, and contemplating the profusion of his gifts. The Countess de Merville is just the guide to whose care I can consign my beloved girl with confidence and pleasure; her virtues are as fascinating as her manners; and though her ability to do good is great, her wish is still greater.
"With her you'll move in a sphere of life very different from your present one;
