former lover.

Of this he seemed likewise convinced, as well as the rest; and thinking
it now proper to act another part, in order to let her know that his
sentiments with respect to her were still the same, he had resolved
to address her in the most tender and affectionate manner upon this
subject. Fortune seemed to have favoured him, and to have smoothed the
way for this intended harangue: he was alone with her in her chamber;
and, what was still better, she was rallying him concerning Miss
Boynton; saying, "that they were undoubtedly much obliged to him for
attending them on their journey, whilst poor Miss Boynton had fainting
fits at Tunbridge, at least twice every day, for love of him." Upon
this discourse, Talbot thought it right to begin the recital of his
sufferings and fidelity, when Miss Temple, with a paper in her hand,
entered the room. This was a letter in verse, which Lord Rochester had
written some time before, upon the intrigues of the two courts; wherein,
upon the subject of Miss Jennings, he said: "that Talbot had struck
terror among the people of God, by his gigantic stature; but that
Jermyn, like a little David, had vanquished the great Goliath."
Jennings, delighted with this allusion, read it over two or three
times, thought it more entertaining than Talbot's conversation, at first
heartily laughed at it, but soon after, with a tender air, "Poor little
David!" said she, with a deep sigh, and turning her head on one side
during this short reverie, she shed a few tears, which assuredly did not
flow for the defeat of the giant. This stung Talbot to the quick; and,
seeing himself so ridiculously deceived in his hopes, he went abruptly
out of the room, vowing never to think any more of a giddy girl, whose
conduct was regulated neither by sense nor reason; but he did not keep
his resolution.

The other votaries of love, who were numerous in this court, were more
successful, the journey being undertaken solely on that account. There
were continual balls and entertainments upon the road; hunting, and all
other diversions, wherever the court halted in its progress. The tender
lovers flattered themselves with the thought of being able to crown
their happiness as they proceeded in their journey; and the beauties
who governed their destiny did not forbid them to hope. Sidney paid his
court with wonderful assiduity: the duchess made the duke take notice
of his late perfect devotion to his service: his royal hi