father, of my submitting to a temporary absence; it was to give Angelina time to collect herself. I would not upon any account have injured her delicacy, by intruding myself too soon upon her notice. I was aware that no one could plead my cause better than her father, were pleading necessary; he could urge my suit with gentleness, control,—God forbid! Angelina has never been accustomed to that harsh word, nor ever shall I use it. I shall never exert any authority over her than that of affection, and she will be too sensible of this goodness ever to take advantage of it.
"After three long tedious weeks I returned to the Parsonage, to that sweet, humble spot, containing objects so inexpressibly dear to me. A few minutes discovered them, the venerable Basil and his lovely daughter; they were seated together under the shade of a rustic arbour, at one side of their little rural plantation. As I advanced, I perceived Angelina covered with confusion; the dear girl was all timidity; she soon, however, recovered herself, and, with the most charming air in the world,—for it was perfect nature,—it proceeded from the interior bias of her affectionate heart,—she sprung forward to meet me, and, with a spontaneous movement, gave me her hand. I pressed it fervently to my breast; the action did
