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 I left the nymph to her repose, and explored my way home in the dark.

Next day, when I went to the long-room, I observed several whispers circulate all of a sudden, and did not doubt but Melinda had been busy with my character. The following day, I saw the Squire in company with Melinda and her mother, who honoured me with several, disdainful glances; and when I threw myself in his way. instead of the cordial shake of the hand, returned my salute with the cold reception of, Your Servant.— These occurrences disturbed me not a little.

Miss Williams found me next morning full of anxious tumult, which did not abate when she told me, that my Lord Quiverwit, having professed honourable intentions had been introduced to my lovely mistress by her brother, who had at the same time, by the information of Melinda, spoke of me as an Irish fortune-hunter, without either birth or estate to recommend me, who supported myself in the appearance of a gentleman, by sharping, and other infamous practices.—Narcissa, far from believing these imputations, was no sooner withdrawn with her confident, than she inveighed with great warmth against the malevolence of the world; and calling every circumstance of my behaviour to her review, found every thing so polite, honourable, and disinterested, that she could not harbour the least doubt of my being the gentle-