A Simple Story

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suffered in consequence, convinced him, beyond a doubt, of the sincerity of his affection. Every time he beheld the object of his passion, (for he still continued his visits, though not so frequently as heretofore) he pleaded his cause with such ardou

ent, he might yet be deprived of her. But Miss Milner declared both to him and to her friend, that love had, at present, gained no influence over her mind. Yet did the watchful Miss Woodley oftentimes hear a sigh escape from her unknown to herself, till she was reminded of it, and then a sudden bl

t her. Night after night his sleep had been disturbed by fears for her when abroad; morning after morning it had been broke

ner, you pass thi

"Yes."-Though she knew she was engaged to a brilliant assem

en he should know the truth. The truth was earlier divulged than she expected-for just as dinner was removed, her footman delivered a messa

gave me your word that you wo

ore given my word that I

d!" cr

t is right that I should keep

me then, you do not th

tainly, i

d

t of more consequence than it

ffended-you shall find

immediately cast down; and she trembl

er seat again, before another word was uttered. Nor had this good woman's officious labours taken the least from

reparing to go out of the room, when Dorriforth

hall not leave the

half opened, but which now she shewed herself irresolute whether to open wide in defiance, or to shut submissively. B

evening." And he walked immediately

s herself-till Mrs. Horton, "Beseeching her not to be uneasy at the trea

ection, and could not utter a word. It was not from any real cause of grief that

ease of her conscience, did not suffer her to think so. She, however, declared she had "

" cried Miss Milner; "am not

"I commend your prudence; and I dare say it i

er, with an eagerness that for a time suppres

ry to that, Miss Milner," replied Mrs. Horton, and affected

nt me now." And she flung out of the room as if she had

evail upon Miss Milner to give up her design; she means

r-if she does it may be for the best; it may give Mr. Dorriforth a

disobedience; and as you tempted, you will be the most lik

his good work, when Mrs. Horton, in imitation

not to stir out of t

were in the chamber of her friend, she never marked by one impert

ich evinced the remains of anger; his eye gave testimony of his absent thoughts; and though he took u

her own house-she was not over scrupulous what that novelty might be. But for fear she should have the imprudence to speak a word upon the subject which employed her thoughts, or even to look as if she thought of it at all; she pinched her lips close together, and cast her e

te; and now the gingle of a tea spoon was

, felt herself at this moment remarkably peaceful and charitable. Miss Woodley did not recollect herself so

ent, and now studied in what manner he should prevent, or resent her disobedience to his commands. He coughed-drank his tea-endeavoured to talk, but found it difficult-sometimes read-and in this manner near two hours were passed away, when Miss Milner ca

asked Miss Milner, "if she would now have any tea?" She replied, "No, I thank you, Ma'am," in a voice so languid, compared with her usual one, that Dorriforth lifted up hi

id defiance to his commands, yet even upon that trial, he would not have endure

he admired her condescension, accused himself for having

rassed him still more-he wished that she had been sullen, he then

sing; till a servant came into the room and asked Miss Milner at what time she should want the carriage? to which she replied, "I

k of a friend to be troublesome-sometimes unmannerly. Forgive the duties of my office, and believ

she must have forgiven him, for the regret which he so forcibly exprest. She was going to reply, but found

eying me a second time to-day. Keep your appointment, and be assured that I shall issue my co

s and patience, which did not give more surprise than it gave joy to Dorriforth. He was charmed to find her disposition so tracta