I have made very minute inquiries into your character and circumstances; pardon the liberty. Fortune, I hear, has dealt unkindly by Mr. Hautweitzer, and unjust to his merit. From Count Wolfran, I am sure, you will accept no assistance, unless by repentance he restores you to your rights. Deign, then, to make me happy, by permitting me the inexpressible pleasure of preserving you from further distress. Accept an annuity that will place you above want, without having the weight of an obligation to cold unfeeling minds." She rose, embraced me, and burst into tears.
I was so astonished, so penetrated with wonder and admiration, at a generosity and greatness of mind so uncommon, that unable to move or speak, I mingled my tears with her's, and pressed her to my bosom with an ardor that spoke my whole soul. She understood the expression of my heart. "Compose yourself," said she, "my amiable friend. Tell me how your worthy father does?"—When speech was lent me, I was not back-
