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42 her side, begging permission to conduct her to a seat, when, within the circle nearest to her, she perceived him whose lofty and striking stature it seemed impossible to overlook. The thoughtful pensiveness of his mien and attitude denoted a mind absorbed by some inward and powerful sentiment; but as soon as his eye caught that of Rosilia, its spiritual and bright lustre recalled him to himself; delighting in the occasion of being near her he was anxious to rejoin the festive throng.

Thus the dance continued until the break of day made itself distinguished over the illuminations of art. The supper had intervened; the table, spread with sumptuous elegance, had displayed every luxury the season could produce.

The company having dispersed, the sisters retired to the room prepared for them. Oriana was soon wrapt in slumber, Rosilia not so quickly; the fascinating and novel impressions which had almost exclusively possessed her, whilst surrounded by the brilliant circle, then favoured by the quiet that had succeeded to the late festivity, now gave way to silent, yet possibly more perturbed reflections. The voice of Douglas, his actions, every word he had uttered, still vibrated on her ear, still floated over her fancy, giving birth to ideas vague and undefined. What did his language mean to