Page:Duty and Inclination 2.pdf/264

262 another point of view, she considered it advantageous to the interests of her attachment, and therefore resolved to avail herself, if possible, by it. Four months had already elapsed since she had left the Bower; and at the expiration of but two more she was to return,—a thought which preyed heavily upon her; and she knew not how she could avoid being transported so far from her Philimore.

Miss Morris professed so much friendship for her,—so much pleasure in her society,—and was besides so generous and hospitable, that she might readily solicit her parents to leave her behind on a visit to her. But would they consent? Oriana justly feared they would not accept of any invitation for her excepting one offered by Mrs. Arden. Could she happily effect her wishes in this parcular, but the space of a few miles only would intervene between herself and the object of her tenderest affections. Many occurrences might give rise to her seeing him. His letters also could be conveyed to her with more facility than at the Bower. From such considerations, Oriana endeavoured to render her manners as obliging and as agreeable as possible to Mr. and Mrs. Arden.

Their elegant barouche-and-four, with outriders, was generally in requisition, affording them the