by his apparent generosity and public benevolence of conduct, easily gave him credit for the reality of every perfection which he found it necessary to assume; and being thus satisfied with the outward semblance of goodness, he wanted not only resolution, but inclination, to become virtuous.
Though the Marchese did not relax from his resolve respecting Laurette, he discovered that it was requisite to adopt some new plan for the accomplishment of his design; he easily perceived that the regarded him with the most stoical indifference, which she now did not attempt to disguise;—he was also conscious, that the spark of gratitude which had once faintly beamed from her countenance was extinguished; and, instead of appearing flattered by his attentions, she carefully avoided giving him any opportunity of bestowing them.CHAP.
