The Fast of St. Magdalen (Volume 1); A Romance (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. 1818. Excerpt: ... with Valombrosa. The nobleness and candour he found in that young man, rendered his faults interesting; (for these lay upon the surface;) and he yielded unconsciously to that particular interest. He was prompted also to seek his intimacy, by that general weariness of a hopeless life, which never fails to prey upon characters naturally inclined to the social affections. Valombrosa had a choice collection of ancient MSS. at // bel Deserto, and as fine a selection of statues. He invited Prince Angelo thither, for the purpose of animating his own moderate ardour for the philosophy contained in the former; while he should teach the Prince how to admire the beauties of the latter. Rossano accepted the challenge; much more disposed to the first than to the last part of his promised entertainment. Hebelieved, perhaps too justly, that if man were to cultivate his understanding more and his taste less, he would be a gainer on the score of happiness. Prince Angelo's intellectual enjoyments at Valombrosa's villa went far beyond his expectations; and these he dreaded not: but it was on the awakening of his sensibility, that he found the time was come for him to retreat. Could the severest philosophy deaden a heart naturally tender, and trusting, and true, to the delight of admiring such perfect union between brother and sister; between the benefactor and the obliged? Could all that dismal experience taught, fortify him against the pity inspired by the youth, beauty, and misfortune of Rosalia? Rossano had been a father; and though he lost his only child while yet an infant, he had felt all the tender transports of that sacred character. Rosalia's touching dependance on those around her; her artless sweetness, her mind eager for instruction, even her flower-like delicac...