Page:Stories after Nature.pdf/103

Rh friends and relations who would sell me to a golden calf.

"Yours for ever,

"."

He departed immediately, claimed the lady; married her, and brought her to his house. Thus did his own generosity reward him; for, but for his delicacy to his friend, he had been ruined, and neither might have seen this lady again.

Edmund, however, did not immediately give up his public employment, but carried it on like a patriot; till it ended in covering him with honour, and hearty thanks. For his poor friend he knew nothing could be done but supplying him with money: he hoped, however, that so good a heart and such great faith would not be thrown away. He also had seen this woman, who was one of those, who, with virtue, would have been most virtuous and admired by all. Humanity would have dropped a tear, seeing such noble beauty run to waste.

Edward still followed the bent of his affections, and waited upon his fate most patiently; choosing such times as he could find his lady alone, and in a tranquil state of mind, and drawing her over hills and vales, would talk