Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/235

 embarrassed at the presence of Ferdinand, which he observed, and politely rose to leave the room.—"Stay one moment," cried Mr. D'Alenberg. "Tell me, Theresa, in two words, what am I to think of Count Wolfran?"

"As of a man unworthy of your notice, whose crimes disgrace his rank and character. I speak on good grounds, my dear Sir (added she;) Providence has preserved your daughter from infamy and wretchedness."

"Good Heavens!" exclaimed the Father, "can such an exterior, such an apparently polished mind, cover a depraved heart!"

"Yes," replied she, with some emotion, "his person and accomplishments are the superficial covering to veil the blackest designs, the most abandoned and selfish passions. The poor Louisa is a melancholy victim to his baseness, nor is she the only one; but I am writing down her story, which may be perused at leisure. What I have now to request is, that you will send off a servant with a few lines to Count Wolfran, just to