to a man whom she did and must despise. Maria, from whom he had not completely concealed his real design, regarded him with contempt and indignation; but her fear of involving in a quarrel that might prove fatal to those whom she most dearly loved, prevented her from explanations. In such circumstances all that she could do was to avoid his company as much as possible, and when in it to treat him with chilling coldness.—Blossom, who considered his own face and figure as irresistible, imputed this behaviour to artifice and coquetry, and persisted in his scheme. Accordingly, having met with the father and son, he offered them his company, intending to return the hospitality of the family by ruining the daughter. As Blossom and the old gentleman were riding before, John in a few words communicated the heads of his character;—that he was a rich blockhead
