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Rh knew his paternal affection and pride for either child was such, that it had never been with his entire consent that he had renounced the society of Oriana, whose declining health made Mrs. Arden desirous to renounce her charge, considering also home to be the most appropriate place for invalids, being there more abundantly supplied with those attentions the nature of the indisposition might require.

Much, therefore, as the General's solicitude for his daughter led him to wish to settle her in the purer atmosphere of the country, yet he resolved not to leave town whilst his much-esteemed and attached Robert inhabited it; and he accordingly delayed his departure until the ship which had brought Robert again set sail on its return, bearing with its crew a noble passenger in the person of the high-principled and affectionate African. The last affecting adieu having been given, the General prolonged his stay to see the vessel under weigh: as it spread its sails, he viewed it glide down the Thames with feelings such as those alone experience who part from a much-loved relative, about to be divided by interminable waters.

"His sense of duty takes him," reflected the General; "it is that alone which severs us; and he bears with him a pure conscience, a soul in that sable form such as kings might envy! May Heaven bless thee, my noble friend, my noble Robert!" ejaculated he, deeply affected, as he turned from the banks of that extensive river to pursue his route