Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 3).djvu/61

 heart was captivated by an exterior too fascinating, and a semblance of honour I had not the penetration to discover from a reality.—But those days of weakness are no more.—I will preserve the honour of my father, whatever is the consequence to myself. I have been weak and imprudent, but never will I consent to appear a guilty creature in his eyes, for any worldly advantages offered as a compensation for lost innocence.—No, Sir—my fame, my character, shall be justified."

"And pray," said he, interrupting me, "who is to justify it? Have you any witnesses to prove it; any testimonies to produce?" "The last, Sir, you know, you have basely robbed me of; my best friend is indeed no more:—But your servant" "is a stranger to every thing between us," answered he with a sneer.—"More than that, you left the Abbe, and resided with me under a false name. You will find, upon inquiry, his knowledge extends no farther."—Tis well, Sir," said I, rising.—"I comprehend all your schemes perfectly; I have no more