Page:The genius - Carl Grosse tr Joseph Trapp 1796.djvu/168

 joint property of my Carlos. But behold, this rose tree here, I cannot share with you."

—"And why not, my sweet Elmira?"

—"Because it is not my own."

—"Who, then, is the fortunate being, that can claim such a property in this sacred place?"

—"If you will promise me beforehand, that you will love him but half as tenderly as I do, I'll procure you his acquaintance."

—"What a glow in your eyes! What damask blushes on your fair checks? Dearest Elmira, is there any one besides me, that can participate in thy love and affection?"

—"None, that will not steal likewise part of your heart from your fond Elmira, Promise me first of all to love him as well as me?"

—"My confidence in you knows no bounds. Here take my hand. Your virtue can cherish nobody that ought not to be dear to me also."

Trembling with joy and impatience, the conducted me back to the house, and nimbly flew up stairs before me. She opened a closet