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158 During the time, however, that must unavoidably elapse ere she could receive an answer, she employed her mind in reviewing, as far as she was enabled, with an impartial judgment, every part of her conduct from the first early dawning of her attachment to the present unfortunate moment. If she had indulged in gaiety or even raillery with others, it had never estranged her heart from him to whom she had betrothed herself. Thus, though she could find no positive cause for censuring her own conduct as far as it related to Philimore, she yet would, if possible, have willingly justified his by every suggestion in her power.

She had ever evinced the utmost generosity and candour towards him; never had she either disguised or concealed her sentiments: he had shared in all her tenderest emotions and dearest wishes; no maxim of a cold-hearted prudence had restrained her; she had poured forth her feelings before him in their fullest extent, and had ventured, without reserve, to tell him how much he was beloved! Alas! thought she, a greater caution in the development of my feelings might have secured me his permanent regard.

The injured virtuous, in the extremity of woe, have still one consolation left, derived from the reflection that their sufferings are unmerited. As to her undiminished constancy, Oriana felt that she was irreproachable; she bitterly, however, condemned herself for the want of self-control,—for the little