Page:The genius - Carl Grosse tr Joseph Trapp 1796.djvu/425

 have procured her the the honor of so distinguished a visit? "Your extensive fame, Signora," replied the former. "I came to convince myself, if your charms were really so irresistible, and your manners so prepossessing as they are reported. Excuse my injustice; for you know that we women are very unbelieving in such like matters."

Chlorinda was never at a loss for an answer, and found it easy to insinuate herself with every one. The dutchess who had only fought a pretence, declared herself so much flattered with the lady's spirit and accomplishments, as to be under the necessity of asking her permission to sup with her that night. So saying, he made no farther ado, than to sit down with great familiarity and composure on the sopha.

Chlorinda begged leave to decline so much honor, as she expected some strangers, who wished to see her without company. The dutchess blushed at this answer, but added, that she must patiently bear her intrusion, as she was determined, at all events, to stay with her. Had Chlorinda had the most distant