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46 from her eyes, that she might have seemed as if suddenly exalted above every weakness incident to humanity, virtue alone prevailing. It was at her shrine Rosilia had secretly resolved to bow. Alas! she little conceived how difficult would be the task,—she was little aware of the mental trials and conflicts to be experienced, when the judgment has to act in opposition to inclinations warm and ardent as hers!

The train of her reflections was interrupted by the encouraging voice of her ladyship, who again summoned her to the music room, which they entered just in time to hear the solo of Mr. Valpée on his flute, in tones sweet and clear, which dying gradually away inspired a mournful tenderness, like that sentiment which had imperceptibly crept into the heart of Rosilia, so soft, so seductive, that alas! in fading, left impressions silent, sorrowful, and affecting!

Lady Valpée in approaching a piano lightly ran over the keys; the air she played was enlivening; her aim however being merely to prevail on some of the ladies of the party to perform in turn, her piece in consequence soon came to a conclusion; when she called upon Oriana, as knowing her to be well skilled in the art. Happy to oblige, with unaffected acquiescence, Oriana took her seat at the