Page:The genius - Carl Grosse tr Joseph Trapp 1796.djvu/336

 —"And what is there so very objectionable in my conduct, as to put you at a loss to guess its motives? I really hope, you are not jealous of Don Bernardos?" These words were accompanied by a sneer, which rendered her quite detestable in my eyes.

—"Madam, I recognize here your national character. But you should know, that I am a real Briton on such a subject. Were you but my mistress, I would only require of you not to put my health in danger. But, since I have honored you with the rank of my spouse, I must insist on your not letting any one but myself remark the foibles of your heart."

A smack of her lips was all the answer she made. At any other time I would have thought it very pretty, but I understood what her pride, which I was designedly occupied with humbling, wanted to express by it. She fell in a profound reverie, but without waiting for the desert, I rofe, bowed, and retired.

I now thought of letting matters rest just as they were. I firmly believed it impossible,