Page:Duty and Inclination. Volume 3.pdf/240

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238
DUTY AND INCLINATION.

impressions awakened in her favour, gave her a complete ascendancy over him. How, therefore, did his heart throb with emotion when, during his stay at the Hermitage, Dr. Lovesworth, in his general praises of the De Brookes, paused to recount more particularly the virtues of Rosilia!

Douglas had frequent opportunities of seeing and conversing with her; but those short intervals of happiness only increased the regret he endured when no longer cheered by her presence. So much true respect united in his admiration and tenderness, that Rosilia felt herself encouraged to a perfect confidence in him, visible in her whole appearance, the attention given to his discourse, the spontaneous remark, the gentle and sweet smile; insomuch that Douglas, in acquiring humility, must have lost his former penetration, into what might gratify his vanity, not to have discovered the nature of Rosilia's sentiments towards him.

The dear Little Rose had returned with her nurse, for the express purpose of acquiescing with the desire of Rosilia, who had wished to have her near her; and the day arrived when she was not only destined to part with that sweet child, but, as she imagined, the father also, and that perhaps for ever. She endeavoured to conceal the oppression of her heart, and succeeded tolerably well until the hour arrived that was to put her courage to the severest trial: her emotions were obvious.

The searching eye of Douglas seemed riveted upon