him? Had he not paid her the most flattering compliment it was possible to do? Had he not distinguished her from her sex in general; and though she could not admit of his addresses, was she to dismiss him with disdain?
Such being her reasonings, after her past persevering resistance, could it be thought inconsistent with her usual dignity of thought, unblemished purity, and strong virtuous principles, not only to pass a less severe censure upon the former conduct of Melliphant than she had hitherto done, but in a manner even to exculpate him? Such being the case, it may be plain to perceive that the artful and specious Melliphant had in the fullest extent, by his well arranged epistle, effected his wishes. Though unable to elicit a return of affection, his appeal to her sensibility, the pity and benevolence of her feelings, had not been fruitless,—since she was led to blame herself that she felt for him no higher sentiment than esteem.
She was about handing this packet to her mother, when recollecting the half hour must be elapsed, she hastened to put on her bonnet and mantle, and stepped to apprize her mother that she was going to Mrs. Belmour. Swiftly descending the staircase, the street-door closed after her.
As nothing could be more unpleasant to Rosilia than being obliged to leave home unattended by a companion, she walked with a hurried step. The
