and improve the heart. In returning the letters, Mrs. Arden used such arguments as she thought might best allay the sorrow of Oriana.
"You must endeavour, my dear," said she, "to cast this Philimore from your thoughts, unhappily too long engrossing them; and, however apparently worthy of them in the beginning of your attachment, at the present proving himself by no means so. Try to recover, and be yourself again. It is but to make the effort, and believe me, that which, in the present state of your wounded feelings, you think so exceedingly grievous, will, if you allow yourself calmly to reflect upon it, appear altogether in another light. This unfortunate partiality you have entertained, I see plainly now, is that alone which has stood between you and Frederick Valpée in his late visit here. I fear, by his abrupt departure, he may conceive you have been playing the coquette. Mr. Arden and myself have been at a loss to know to what cause to attribute such coolness in your conduct as you manifested towards him; it was certainly calculated to mar your real interests; but since the truth is discovered, I would advise you, when next Mr. Valpée comes, should he be prevailed on to renew his visits here, to receive him with more unequivocal testimony of your esteem."
Oriana tacitly acknowledged the truth of all her aunt had advanced. Frederick Valpée was truly much regarded by her. Had her thoughts been undecided,—had Philimore never proffered her his
