see me forthwith. That dear name operated
upon me like a charm! I started up, and, without opening my lips, was
conducted into her apartment through the garden, which we entered by a
private door. I found the adorable creature in tears; I was melted at
the sight--we continued silent for some time--my heart was too full to
speak--her snowy bosom heaved with fond resentment; at last she sobbing
cried, "What have I done to disoblige you?" My heart was pierced with
the tender question. I drew near with the utmost reverence of affection.
I fell upon my knees before her, and, kissing her hand, exclaimed, "Oh!
thou art all goodness and perfection! I am undone by want of merit; I am
unworthy to possess thy charms, which heaven bath destined for the arms
of some more favourite being." She guessed the cause of my disquiet,
upbraided me gently for my suspicion, and gave me such flattering
assurances of her eternal fidelity, that all my doubts and fears forsook
me, and peace and satisfaction reigned within my breast.

At midnight I left the fair nymph to her repose, and, being let out by
Miss Williams at the garden gate by which I entered, began to explore my
way homeward in the dark, when I heard at my back a noise like that of
a baboon when he mews and chatters. I turned instantly, and, perceiving
something black, concluded I was discovered by some spy, employed
to watch for that purpose; aroused at this conjecture, by which the
reputation of the virtuous Narcissa appeared in jeopardy, I drew my
sword, and would have sacrificed him to her fame, had not the voice
of Strap restrained my arm, it was with great difficulty he could
pronounce, "D--d--d-do! mum--um--um--murder me if you please." Such an
effect had the cold upon his jaws, that his teeth rattled like a pair
of castanets. Pleased to be thus undeceived, I laughed at his
consternation, and asked what brought him thither? Upon which he gave me
to understand, that his concern for me had induced him to follow me
to that place, where the same reason had detained him till now, and he
frankly owned, that, in spite of the esteem he had for Miss Williams he
began to be very uneasy about me, considering the disposition in which
I went abroad; and, if I had stayed much longer, would certainly have
alarmed the neighbourhood in my behalf. The knowledge of this
his intention confounded me. I represented to him the mischievous
consequences that would have attended such a rash action, and,