Maskwell introduced him as the intended bridegroom. "Is it possible !" cried Travers, who was thrown off his guard." Is it you who are to marry Lady Louisa ?" "Yes, I am the happy man, pon honor!" "That is too true, indeed!" observed Cynic; and, like other fools, you are insensible of your happiness. But, had I a girl to dispose of, curse me! if I would not as soon select her a husband from Pidcock's menagerie; as, I think, some of the monkeys, there, are more endureable." This sarcasm was follow'd by the appearance of Lady Louisa, led by her mother. But, alas! how unlike a bride !The roseate bloom of health-the modest pleasure, which sparkles in the eye of pure love were not to be discern'd. Pale melancholy sat upon her cheek; and she return'd the salutations of the visitants with a listless air, and vacant eye. The chaplain unfolded the sacred volume -the solemn service was concluded-and Lord Maskwell was advancing to salute his daughter, and thank her for this act of her obedience, when a livid paleness overspread her countenance; her eyes became fix'd— she shudder'd, and fell into the arms of Cynic, who stood next her! All was now terror and confusion; and much time elapsed before the bride recover'd the power of utterance-when she address'd her father, in a solemn manner, to the following effect: "It is accomplish'd! I have done my duty in obeying you, and averting your curse. I shall never offend more-even now, the icy bolt of death freezes my blood! -Oh! God! forgive a poor unhappy creature, compell'd by misery to shake off the yoke of life! spare me the punishment destined to self-destruction, and take me to thyself!" Then, turning her dying eyes upon a portrait of her loved Algernon, which was hanging in the room, she rejoin'd—“ I come to thee!" and expired. The claims of parent and of child are mu tual-filial obedience is engender'd by affection.-Parental authority was given to be used with moderation; and they who exercise it rigidly, abuse a trust reposed in them by Providence! END OF VOL. I. Printed by C. Robinson, |