Page:Modern literature (1804 Volume 2).djvu/270

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give a grand gala, and" (here Harlequin made the other speak) "where frivolous amusement or silly vanity interferes, the friendship of an insipid heart, governed by a weak head, is at an end." A lover now came forward, expressing the most passionate fondness and adoration for his mistress, declaring that his happiness depended solely upon the return she made to the most ardent and honorable passion that ever inflamed a human breast; "it is the most earnest desire of my soul, (Harlequin touched the stone) to pursue my own gratification, by bringing you to misery and ruin." A methodist preacher was sufficiently characteristical; he whined and canted, made love to the women, procured contributions for charitable purposes, and kept the greater part to himself. The lady of the house now coming up, brought with her a domino,