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24 Rosilia; in itself so free, so generously and spontaneously to be given, and which no wealth could purchase, no arts could ensnare.

Sir Howard possessed an income of 1000l. per annum, which he deemed barely adequate for his fashionable career. It was upon riches he founded his claim to importance; riches could alone supply the enjoyments of luxury; those voluptuous pleasures upon which the sensualist refines, and without which life appears but a mere vegetative existence, unproductive of enjoyment.

He had formed an acquaintance with a rich widow, who in some degree favoured his pretensions; but being his senior by some years, she had in consequence lost the prepossessing attractions of youth. Her dowry, however, was ample, a weighty recommendation with Sir Howard, who would not have delayed his proposals, but for the tantalizing alternative that from that moment he must relinquish the views he had formed relative to Rosilia. Thus tossed by contending feelings, and uncertain as to the result of his passion, he thought proper to open the state of his case to Mr. Melliphant, his constant associate, to ask his counsel and assistance as to the manner in which he might best proceed.

Melliphant, who was a physician by profession and practice, drily replied: "Think you my art extends to heal the distempers of the mind as well as those of the body? Nevertheless, introduce me to your flame, after which I shall be better enabled to aid