The Empire of the Nairs (Volume 2); Or, the Rights of Women. an Utopian Romance (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1811. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... A letter which he had dictated to his steward, breaking off the marriage in the most positive terms, was brought to my father; but he understanding that his friend Was frequently light-headed, determined to defer the explanation; nor to communicate the contents to the family. " Soon after his recovery, how surprised we were to hear that our neighbor had frequently rode out without paying us a visit. We could not account for this. My father looked serious, and called for his horse. Mr. Forbes was embarrassed at his appearance, but recovered himself, took his hand, and conjured him by all he held sacred, by their long friendship, by the welfare of their children, neither to combat his resolution, nor insist upon knowing his motives which he refused to explain. The honor of our family and my reputation was concerned, Mr. Montgomery's pride was inflamed. High words ensued. The two friends met in a neighboring wood. Mr. Forbes was mortally wounded; I shall never forget the tears that flowed on his account. Montgomery returned home sullen and silent. My mother swooned away. James, who, unknown to his father, was at our house, stood the motionless image of despair. " The next morning the dying man requested an interview with me, Montgomery bade me go, and console his last moments. " Poor man," said he, " I cannot comprehend his conduct, but I love him still." " I arrived at his bed-side, death was in his countenance, whiter than the sheets, which here and there were stained with blood 5 James was at his pillow. O what a look he gave me it went to my heart. " I felt the hand of the dying man tremble in mine, and with a faltering voice--O must I repeat what followed ? shall I risk your protection ? The discovery of my birth will degrade me in your eyes as well...