"Unhappy!" returned Rosilia; "why do you think so? You mistake, doubtless, and imagine that the reflection and thoughtfulness to which he is subject proceeds from melancholy."
"No, indeed, Miss, I do not think as you suppose; but I am convinced he labours under some severe secret affliction, which destroys his peace and makes him look so sad; I have seen him many a time, poor gentleman, sitting in such a musing posture, so mournful and sighing so deeply, it almost broke my heart to see him. Ah, Miss, pray don't be angry with me, but you must know I can't help it, upon my life, thinking—that it is love which makes him so unhappy, and that it is you he is so much in love with!"
This was accompanied by a look so sly, that Rosilia could not forbear smiling at the apparent innocent mistake, as she supposed, of the nurse, whom she hastened to underceive.
"I have no means," said she, "of deciding whether or not Mr. Melliphant is affected as you say; but pray, my good nurse, be persuaded I am not the object!"
"Well, Miss, I can only say that I hope you will recollect my words, and depend upon it, ere long, you will find them verified. How glad I should be to see so good a young lady as you are, married to so kind-hearted, so worthy a gentleman—bless his soul, he's the man to make a lady happy!"
Upon these remarks of the nurse, an inquiry as to
