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Pardon me, dearest Alice! generous Alice! Pardon the hasty error of a word Which had no meaning—no intended meaning To cast one shade of blame on thy dear friend; For henceforth by no other appellation But thy dear friend shall she be named by me. (Turning to .) And you, dear Sir! look not so sternly sad. Her love outran her duty one short step, But would no farther go, though happiness Was thereby peril'd. Though his house and yours, His creed and yours, were so at variance, still, She might expect his noble qualities Would in the end subdue a father's heart, Who did so fondly love her.

Cease! I am weak, bereft, and desolate,— A poor old man, my pride of wisdom sear'd And ground to dust: what power have I to judge? May God forgive me if I did amiss!

Did Gordon see her ere she breathed her last?

He did. The nurse, who was her close attendant,