Page:Shepherdess of the Alps (1).pdf/17

17 my passion, I agreed to a private marriage, sacred to virtuous souls, but disapproved by laws. Italy then was the seat of war. My husband was ordered to join the corps he was to command: and I went with him as far as Briancon. There my foolish fondness prevailed on him to stay with me three days, which he passed with extreme reluctance. I sacrificed, said he, my duty to you. But what had I not sacrificed for him?

"He afterwards set out with a foreboding that terrified me. I accompanied him to this valley, where we took leave of each other, and I returned to Briancon.  In a few days a report of a battle was spread about.  I was sure my dear Oreston was there I wished it for his honour—I feared it for my love.  When I received a letter from him, (which afforded me much comfort) it informed me that such a day, such an hour, I should find him in the valley, under the same oak where I had bid him farewell—that he should be alone, and desircddesired [sic] to meet me unaccompanied—adding that he only lived for me.  I was exact to the appointment.  Mr. Oreston received me in the most tender manner.  Ah! my dear Adelaide, said he you would have it so.  I have failed in my duty at the most important crisis of my life.  What I fcaredfeared [sic] is come to pass. The battle was given. my regiment charged, performed wondcrswonders [sic] of valour, and I was not at its head. I am dishonoured for ever—lost without help—I have but one sacrifice more to make you which I am come to consummate. At these words I pressed my dear husband in my arms. I felt my blood congeal in my shivering heart. I fainted dead away, He