Page:Modern Literature Volume 3 (1804).djvu/106

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decently dressed, but with evident marks of deep dejection, sitting in an hollow. A pale and disconsolate countenance did not prevent her from exhibiting the mien and expression of a gentlewoman. Our hero accosted her with a tone and expressions of soothing compassion, enquired whether he could be of any service to a lady, who evidently laboured under some great distress. "Oh, sir," she said, "it is not in your power to relieve my afflictions." She said no more, but burst into tears, which terminated in a fit. The ladies, by smelling bottles, endeavoured to restore her perception and consciousness, and at length succeeded. Moved by their kindness and tenderness, she, in a low voice, expressed her gratitude: "Charming ladies," she said, "you are bestowing your goodness on a wretch unworthy to live! leave me to my fate; I wish by