romantic idea of truth and constancy to me, or to sacrifice her individual wishes to the feelings of her friends and her own sense of prudence and the fitness of things? No--and I would not! I would go at once, and she should never know that I had approached. the place of her abode: for though I might disclaim all idea of ever aspiring to her hand, or even of soliciting a place in her friendly regard, her peace should not be broken by my presence, nor her heart afflicted by the sight of my fidelity. 'Adieu then, dear Helen, for ever I For ever adieu!' So said I--and yet I could not tear myself away. I moved a few paces, and then looked back, for one last view of her stately home, that I might have its outward form, at least, impressed upon my mind as indelibly as her own image, which, alas! I must not see again--then walked a few steps further; and then, lost in melancholy musings, paused again and leant my back against a rough old tree that grew beside the road. -487- |