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 you Mr Trueman come too; my mother has told him what a kind friend you have been; I will run back, and say you are coming.’

‘Now, my Charlotte,’ said Trueman, ‘indulge this flood of joy, nor check the soft emotions of the soul. These tears become thee; which, like the fleeting shower that bathes.the summer’s day, gives fresh lustre to the charms of nature.’

‘Is that which I have heard derived from truth, or is it but the dream of fancy? My father released from prison; by whom?’

‘Why,’ said Trueman, ‘should you question whence the gracious bounty came. It is sufficient that he is returned. Think the measure of his Miss is complete, till in his paternal embrace he folds thy lovely form. Hasten, then, to increase and share his merited happiness.’ Then folding her arm in his, he hurried towards her dwelling Mr Benley was seated at the door of the cottage, surrounded by many of his parishoners, when Charlotte rushed into her father’s arms, exclaimed

‘My dear, dear father.’ The enraptured parent mingled the tears of fond affection with those of filial gratitude; and every countenance beamed with smiles of joy. Nor was the welcome of the worthy Trueman wanting in cordiality; but, when the lovely Charlotte related her rescue from the hated Sandford, the murmur of applause fell from every tongue, while the grateful father strained the