?

But, I have engaged to see her at an appointed time; my honour is
therefore pledged for an interview; it must take place. I shall
endeavour to support it with becoming dignity, and I will convince Alida
and Bonville, that I am not the dupe of their caprices. But, let me
consider--What has Alida done to deserve censure or reproach? Her
brother was my early friend; she has treated me as a friend to that
brother. She was unconscious of the affection which her charms and
mental graces had kindled in my bosom. Her evident embarrassment, on
receiving my declaration, witnessed her surprise and prior attachment.
What could she do to save herself the pain of a direct denial? She has
appointed a day when her refusal may come in a more delicate and formal
manner--and I must therefore meet it.

CHAPTER IX.

The time draws near when I shall meet those eyes, that may
perchance look cold on me--"but doubt is called the beacon
of the wise, the test that reaches to the bottom of the worst."

On the appointed day, Theodore proceeded to the house of Alida's father,
where he arrived late in the afternoon. Alida had retired to a little
summer-house at the end of the garden. A servant conducted him thither.

She was dressed in a flowing robe of white muslin, richly embroidered.
Her hair was in dishevelled curls; she was contemplating a bouquet of
flowers which she held in her hand. Theodore fancied she never appeared
so lovely. She arose to receive him.

We have been expecting you for some time, said she; we were anxious to
inform you that we have just received a letter from my brother, in which
he desires us to present you his most friendly respects, and complains
of your not visiting him lately so frequently as usual. Theodore thanked
her for the information; said that business had prevented him; he
esteemed him as his most valuable friend, and would be more particular
in future.

"We have been thronged with company several days," said Alida. The last
of them took their departure yesterday. And I have only to regret, that
I have nearly a week been prevented from taking my favourite walk to the
grove, to which place you attended me when you were last here. "We will
walk there, then, if you have no objections, as no doubt it is much
improved since that time," said Theodore. They resorted thither towards
evening, and seated themselves in the arbour where they sat some time
contemplating the scenery.

It was the begi