Page:The history of Tom Jones (1749 Volume 2).pdf/47

  An Apology for the Inenibility of Mr. Jones, to all the Charms of the lovely Sophia; in which poibly we may, in a coniderable Degree, lower his Character in the Etimation of thoe Men of Wit and Gallantry, who approve the Heroes in mot of our modern Comedies.

HERE are two Sorts of People, who I am afraid, have already conceived ome Contempt for my Heroe, on Account of his Behaviour to Sophia. The former of thee will blame his Prudence in neglecting an Opportunity to poes himelf of Mr. Wetern's Fortune; and the latter will no les depie him for his Backwardnes to o fine a Girl, who eemed ready to fly into his Arms, if he would open them to receive her.

Now, though I hall not perhaps be able abolutely to acquit him of either of thee Charges; (for Want of Prudence admits of no Excue; and what I hall produce againt the latter Charge, will, I apprehend, be carce atisfactory;) yet as Evidence may