Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 2).djvu/85

 myself she would never be the wife of another."

This answer was conclusive, for I knew her too well to hope for any change in a plan she had once decided upon: As soon as I heard therefore she was in a convalescent state, I resolved to quit my father's mansion, and by travelling give some diversity to that load of anguish seated at my heart. My father did not oppose my design, conscious of the misery his intemperate conduct had produced, I believe it grew painful to him to see me, and that a separation was little less desired by him than by myself.

My journies were by no means interesting, for I sought not pleasure, and received but little amusement: I preserved that respect due to a parent, of sometimes writing to my father, who concealed the increasing weakness of a broken constitution from me, until the faculty had given up all hopes of his life. This intelligence, quite unexpected, recalled all that dormant affection and respect I had once so warmly entertained. I hastened