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 and cowardice, the character of their ancient heroes; whilst, uniting the past with the present, they equalled the most polished courtiers in the elegance of their accomplishments, and the gracefulness of their manners.

The Count de Nevers had hardly known his parents. They died during his infancy. The mother of the Seur de Joinville had educated him, with her son and daughter, at one of the principal estates, whither she had retired after the death of her husband, who was killed at the naval battle of Ecluse. The Count de Nevers was the only son of Madame de Joinville’s brother. The tender friendship, which, from their infancy, had united the Count de Nevers and the Seur de Joinville, made them desire to resemble each other, though nature had formed a very great contrast in their minds; yet thinking the conformity of their virtues was of no less use to them than the opposition of their characters. The Count de Nevers was born with that extreme sensibility, which is always the cause of much uneasiness to its possessor. The Seur de Joinville’s mind, though naturally just, was austere and thoughtful, and was one of those, who, thinking themselves incapable of error, have no indulgence for the failings of another: for the heart is rendered callous by this too great strictness, which extinguishes sensibility, and repulses confidence.

On their entrance into the world, to the united advantages of illustrious birth, a large fortune, and handsome persons, they added all the qualities to make them useful and amiable members of society.

The war soon afforded them an opportunity of distinguishing themselves. After numberless actions of valour, they were taken prisoners with