The Count rose to leave the room.—Ferdinand caught his hand: "Stop, generous friend, no consideration is necessary, I can distinguish between favours coldly offered, and the effusions of benevolence and friendship; the proud heart that would refuse the latter feels not a generous enthusiasm.—I accept with transport your offers, because I know you feel a delight, a gratification superior, even to mine, in the pleasure of bestowing favours.—Yes (added he, embracing the Count) we will indeed console each other; with such a companion I will travel through the painful journey of life with patience and resignation, and to you be indebted for every comfort without feeling myself degraded by the acceptance." The Count was delighted, and withdrew to acquaint Eugenia with the acquisition he had fortunately obtained of a friend and a companion for his future days; whilst Ferdinand retired to reflect on his letters, and the generosity of the friend, so infinitely superior to the obligations frigidly bestowed by a brother.
