Page:Modern literature (1804 Volume 2).djvu/318

 He esteemed and admired his genins and virtues, and regarded him as the preserver of his life; still, however, Hamilton had gained the love which he had most ardently sought. His wisdom, his virtues, his liberality, candour, and gratitude, could not altogether stifle that sentiment; all his generosity could not preclude a regret, not untinctured by envy. He endeavoured to dispel the last-mentioned passion, and in the conflict of emotions, was silent and distracted; having been a considerable time in a reverie, his countenance was overcast with a gloom, which our hero imputing to displeasure, rose to withdraw. Roused by this movement, Hamden sprang from his seat, and eagerly grasping Hamilton's hand, said, "my dearest friend, preserver of my life, forgive the temporary impulse of feelings, of which you so justly and