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Rh either in favour of or against Sir Howard, but that there were in the world those of such a character who could make it their boast and glory to subdue and triumph over the fame and honour of her sex, cruel and unrelenting, leaving them with blasted virtue to shame and derision. Recovering herself, she told her sister she did not think Sir Howard Sinclair could be the person alluded to, from his general goodness, his love of literature, his humanity towards the poor; dwelling with pathos on the interesting scene she had so recently witnessed.

"Do not, my dear sister," replied Oriana, in her turn assuming the monitress, "place a too great reliance on such seeming worth; appearances are often deceitful."

"But," continued Rosilia, "admitting your remarks to be true in the case of Sir Howard, they can in no way affect me, since I regard him merely in the light of an agreeable acquisition to our acquaintance during the short period we remain in town."

"For my part," Oriana rejoined, "I cannot but think him the identical Sir Howard I have heard spoken of as a professed man of pleasure, and as such, what gratification could he derive from the company of either my father or mother? Be assured, Rosilia, his constant visits here are on your account."

"Well, my dear Oriana," replied Rosilia smiling, "we shall be shortly transported to the shades again and then your fears for my safety will end."