Page:ThePrincessofCleves.djvu/194

182 see no hazard of discovery at your own house; but if by any unexpected means such a misfortune should arrive, be assured of my inviolable integrity, and that I would sooner lose my life than confess I came thither with your knowledge; or had any entertainment from you, but such as drove me to despair. I would have you consider of it, however; and if you approve of this proceeding, let me know the time and hour when I may hope to seize my own, and triumph over him, who has but by force made himself master of the right of The ever faithful, and passionately devoted

"P. S. You must extremely wrong the passion you have inspired, if you believe not I shall attend a second mandate with the extremest impatience. Remember that it is your part, not mine, to pity; and I expect you to show a bright example, how much you dare for love and gratitude."

It is impossible to express what it was I felt at reading this letter; never had I before experienced such an astonishment; such a shock.—What means he, cried I out, as soon as I came to the conclusion, by integrity, seizing his own, and triumphing over him who by force is become master of his right? He talks as if I had invited him to wrong the count, and had no other notion of continuing a conversation with him, than to carry on a shameful intrigue. Heaven! how have I been deceived in the disposition of this man! I thought he loved me with so pure a flame, that sensual enjoyment never was thought on by him; but now I find his wishes had no other aim; and flattered by the mistaken kindness of my letter, he imagines there wants only an opportunity to gratify them; and believes I am a prostitute in my nature, and that the vilest passion has