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Cecilia coloured high at this pointed reprehension; but feeling her disgust every nity, and at least not suffer him to perceive the triumph of his ostentation and rudeness

"The proposals," he continued, "of the Earl of Ernolf had always lect such an opportunity of being honourably settled The clause of the name was, to hio was unheard of, and since he is himself only known by his title He is still, however, I have authority to acquaint you, perfectly well disposed to renew his application to you"

"I am sorry, Sir," said Cecilia coldly, "to hear it"

"You have, perhaps, some other better offer in view?"

"No, Sir," cried she, with spirit, "nor even in desire"

"Am I, then, to infer that some inferior offer has more chance of your approbation?"

"There is no reason, Sir, to infer any thing; I am content with my actual situation, and have, at present, neither prospect nor intention of changing it"

"I perceive, but without surprise, your unwillingness to discuss the subject; nor do I mean to press it: I shall merely offer to your consideration one caution, and then relieve you fro women of ample fortunes, who are early independent, are so with impunity; but they are mistaken; they are as liable to censure as those who are wholly unprovided for"

"I hope, Sir," said Cecilia, staring, "this at least is a caution rather drawn from my situation than o into, or investigate the subject; what I have said you may make your own use of; I have only to observe further, that when young woent of so nice a thing as reputation, they coo, but Cecilia, not , Sir, you will explain yourself!"

"Certainly this matter," he answered, "uardian by the no an effort towards preventing any indiscretion: and frequent visits to a young man--"

"Good God! Sir," interrupted Cecilia, "what is it youto lad to see you in better hands: but I cannot suppose you have been led to take such steps without some serious plan; and I would advise you, without loss of time, to think better of what you are about"