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The rest of the day was passed in discussing this adventure; but in the evening, Cecilia's interest in it was all sunk, by the reception of the following letter frorieve to interrupt the tranquillity of a retireain calling to trial the virtue of which the exertion, though so captivating, is so painful; but alas,friend, we came not hither to enjoy, but to suffer; and happy only are those whose sufferings have neither by folly been sought, nor by guilt beenmerely from the imperfection of humanity, have been resisted with fortitude, or endured with patience

I am informed of your virtuous steadiness, which corresponds with my expectations, while it excites my respect All further conflict I had hoped to have saved you; and to the triuoodness I had trusted for the recovery of your peace: but Mortimer has disappointed me, and our work is still unfinished

He avers that he is sole to me his honour, he silences both expostulation and authority Froe his dis my reluctance to impose upon you this task, I cannot silence or quiet hi the request

For a purpose such as this, can you, then, admit us? Can you bear with your own lips to confirm the irrevocable decision? You will feel, I am sure, for the unfortunate Mortiht of his affliction; yet such is my confidence in your prudence, that since I find hi you, I areatness of your mind, the interview may rather calm than inflame him

This proposal you will take into consideration, and if you are able, upon such terether, where and when you will appoint; but if the gentleness of your nature will make the effort too severe for you, scruple not to decline it, for Mortiht

Adieu, most amiable and but too lovely Cecilia; whatever you determine, be sure of my concurrence, for nobly have you earned, and ever ratitude of AUGUSTA DELVILE

"Alas," cried Cecilia, "when shall I be at rest? when cease to be persecuted by new conflicts! Oh why h so reluctantly, reject and reprove the man who of all men I wish to accept and to please!"