as also subsequent observations on the conduct of Miss Airey, which, having so strongly disposed him to address her, equally operated, notwithstanding all the persuasions of his Lordship, against a change of resolution.
"My dear and highly respected Lord," said he, "sensibly grateful as I am for the advice you have thought proper to give me, be assured I feel the deepest regret from the total impracticability of my following it. I have pledged my irrevocable faith to Miss Airey, to become the future partner and protector of her youth; circumstances have also occurred, of which my honour forbids the mention, but which are convincing to me that Providence has assigned to me the part I am acting."
His Lordship essayed to speak; he would still further have dissuaded Douglas, but admiration so mingled with his sentiments, as to control for awhile his speech; after which, before he closed the subject, he hinted merely at the probable pecuniary embarrassments such a marriage might involve.
"I retain a fervent hope," replied Douglas, "that Heaven will avert such evils, and crown with blessing a union formed upon the most just and honourable views."
