first wife; and who, on many
accounts, appeared a most eligible match. At first," says Kepler, "she
seemed favourably inclined to the proposal; it is certain that she took
time to consider it, but at last she very quietly excused herself." It
must have been from a recollection of this lady's good qualities, that
Kepler was induced to make his offer; for we learn rather unexpectedly,
after being informed of her decision, that when he soon afterwards paid
his respects to her, it was the first time that he had seen her during
the last six years; and he found, to his great relief, that "there was
no single pleasing part about her." The truth seems to be, that he was
nettled by her answer, and he is at greater pains than appears
necessary, considering this last discovery, to determine why she would
not accept his offered hand. Among other reasons, he suggested her
children, among whom were two marriageable daughters; and it is
diverting afterwards to find them also in the catalogue, which Kepler
appeared to be making, of all his female acquaintance.... Of the other
ladies, one was too old, another in bad health, another too proud of her
birth and quarterings, a fourth had learned nothing but shewy
accomplishments, "not at all suitable to the sort of life she would have
to lead with me," another grew impatient, and married a more decided
admirer, whilst he was hesitating. "The mischief," says he, "in all
these attachments was, that whilst I was delaying, comparing and
balancing conflicting reasons, every day saw me inflamed with a new
passion." By the time he reached the 8th, he found his match in this
respect. "Fortune at length has avenged herself on my doubtful
inclinations. At first she was quite complying, and her friends also;
presently, whether she did or did not consent, not only I, but she
herself did not know. After the lapse of a few days came a renewed
promise, which, however, had to be confirmed a third time; and four days
after that, she again repeated her confirmation, and begged to be
excused from it. Upon this I gave her up, and this time all my
counsellors were of one opinion." This was the longest courtship in the
list, having lasted three whole months; and, quite disheartened by its
bad success, Kepler's next attempt was of a more timid complexion. His
advances to No. 9 were made by confiding to her the whole story of his
recent disappointment, prudently determining to be guided in his
behaviour, by observi