Page:Modern literature (1804 Volume 1).djvu/187

This page needs to be proofread.

might reconcile them to the connection. The pastor was partly of the same opinion, but reserved to himself the privilege, should he be deceived, of decamping and leaving his present seraglio of saints, preaching the new light in other parts, or betaking himself to such other calling as might best suit his purposes. Accordingly the nuptials were concluded in the manner agreed.

In a few weeks Mr. O'Rourke, having now brought himself into very high favour with the father, mother, and grandmother, ventured to disclose his passion for Miss; and, addressing himself to their worldly as well as their heavenly feelings, assured them he was a gentleman born, and next heir to a great estate, which he should possess as soon as his two cousins and their respective sons and daughters should be in the dust. Although this reversionary prospect was