Whilst Ferdinand was speaking with an earnestness and solemnity in his manner that was truly touching, Miss D'Allenberg had time to recall her fleeting spirits, and compose her mind sufficiently to answer him, tho" not without some emotion.
"This address, Sir, is so unexpected, so opposite to the idea that I had entertained of your sentiments, that surprise has no small share in my too visible emotions; the love of candour, and a strict adherence to truth, were the first lessons I received from the best of mothers: Her precepts and example have governed every action of my life, I will therefore frankly confess."—She stopped.
"Ah! Madam, speak, go on, keep me not in suspense."
"I scarce know what I ought to say, yet I will confess, such is my esteem for your character, that I am persuaded, if I have really the power of contributing to your happiness, I cannot fail of insuring my own."
