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174 "I can believe such an instance—can believe love taking strong root amid cruelty, poverty, suffering, and danger, rather than in the withering atmosphere of this crowded city—this miscalled social, but really heartless, life; where petty interests distract the mind, and mean desires absorb the heart. From the beginning of the show to the end, vanity is the sole stimulus and reward of action—vanity, that never looks beyond the present."

"Nay," replied Francesca, "you exaggerate. The truth is, we begin life with too exalted ideas—our wishes and our expectations go together. We are soon forced to lower our standard; and this depreciation brings at first coldness, distress, and distrust, but also wisdom. We learn not to anticipate so much, and to cling with firmer faith to those whose truth has been proved. Courtesy from the many, kindness from the few, and affection from the individual, become the limit of our hopes; and. even that moderate limit must prepare for exceptions,"

They were interrupted by the entrance of an unlooked-for visitor, the Chevalier de Joinville.

"I have just heard," said he, "from Bournonville, of your intended departure, and thought I might venture to come and offer my good wishes