Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 4).djvu/104

 the same effects of making me composed and resigned, as if I could indulge a visionary hope. These tears will be the last you shall see me shed, not one sigh more shall give you pain; I have given too much indulgence to a fatal weakness which stole upon me insensibly, but now I throw it from my heart for ever. Your daughter never shall live to blush for her attachment to an insensible object; but she will admire the constancy of an unfortunate man, and imitate a character that rises upon her every hour. Yes, his fortitude, his discretion, his strict adherence to honour and rectitude of conduct, shall inspire me with equal courage, to bear the misfortunes of life without sinking under them, and teach me to respect your feelings by suppressing my own."

She rose, and kissing her father's hand.—"Do not look at me (said she) with such tender surprise; this is not a false heroism; you shall see what resolution and a sense of duty will enable me to perform."