therefore so distressing, that the company of a third person, particularly Ferdinand's, was a most desirable relief. He entered upon the success of his commission, and failed not to repeat, in the strongest terms, the advice and admonitions of Father Joseph. The Count fixed his eyes on Eugenia with a look that penetrated to her soul. She was greatly agitated for a moment, but struggling for composure, "I thank the good Father, and you, my amiable friend; but I have no doubts of my own resolution, no fear of future regrets: Only one object can claim a share in my thoughts with the Deity, to whose service I mean to dedicate the remaining days of my existence; and every remembrance of that too dearly beloved object will more strongly enforce the necessity for pursuing my present plan, by reminding me of my errors, and pointing out the strict observance of my religious duties, as the only means of procuring pardon from Heaven, and of obtaining future tranquillity to myself."
