Page:Clermont - Roche (1798, volume 4).djvu/161

 directly, and a man, whom she had never seen before, made his appearance.

Madeline rose from her chair, and surveyed him with astonishment. He approached her with evident diffidence and agitation, and offered her a letter. "From whom does it come?" said Madeline without taking it.

"From a friend to virtue (he replied). Delay not to read it (continued he, dropping it at her feet, for surprise rendered her unable to extend her hand): observe its advice, and avoid destruction." So saying, he rushed from the room, and closed the door after him.

Madeline remained many minutes without motion. She then repeated his words—"And will this letter (cried she, taking it up) point out a way by which I can avoid destruction?" She broke the seal with a trembling hand, and read as follows:—