Page:Pathetic history of George Barnwell the London apprentice.pdf/9

 unwearied, was remitted, and appeared to be the result of a painful struggle, rather than the effect of a will devoted to his master's interest. Having gained the information by letter from Milwood, that she had removed to a lodging in Moorfields, thither Barnwell repaired in the evening; and, bringing with him a considerable sum of money, he was welcomed by the designing woman with an appearance of the sincerest affection. At this visit he related to her the suspicions which his absence had occasioned, and consulted her as to the most ready method of continuing his connexion with her without the hazard of a discovery.

Milwood determined to try the nature of his attachment to her, declared, in reply, that as she had taken these apartments, she expected that he would give up his companions, quit his master's house, and take up his residence with her; who, as she said, had given up every thing on his account. On consideration of his putting this project into execution on the following day, she consented to allow his absence on that night; and, after an hour or two, Barnwell submitted to the conditions which his mistress had imposed, and accordingly took his leave of her.

A thousand thoughts now engaged his harassed mind; it was the grand struggle between virtuous honour to his master and patron, and all powerful illicit love to a fascinating wicked woman