The British Novelists (Volume 34, PT. 1); With an Essay, and Prefaces, Biographical and Critical (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1820. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XI. "Rien ne pese font qn'un secret; Le porter loin est difficile uu.r dames; Etje sais meme sur cefait Son nombre d'hammes qui sonl femmes." LA FONTAINE. After having lived for some time together in a state of mutual happiness, the valet presented himself one day to his mistress with every appearance of sorrow. This tender-hearted maiden (for she had never been married) affectionately inquired into the cause of his grief. The valet answered, That it was all on account of his unhappy master, who, from being the most cheerful of mankind, was of late become the most dejected and heart-broken. Have you no notion, said the maid, what has occasioned such a melancholy change? No notion replied the valet, I know but too well what has brought it about. And pray, for goodness' sake, what can it be? said the maid impatiently. That, replied the valet, is what no earthly consideration will make me ever divulge. No cried the maid; and for what reason? Because, said the valet, I have promised never to mention it to any human creature. I insist upon knowing it immediately, said the maid. I beg you will not, cried the valet; it would be horrid in me to divulge a secret with which I have been intrusted--my master never would forgive me. Your mistress never will forgive you if you do not, said the maid. Only consider what you require of me, rej oined the valet; to break my trust To press such a thing is an attack on my honour. Well, exclaimed the maid, have you not made an attack on my honour? Is all your pretended love come to this? To refuse the Jirst favour she ever asked to her who has granted you the last. Was there ever such ingratitude? O I shall burst with vexation.--Yes, continued she, weeping, if you do not immediately tell me the cause of your master...