The Expedition of Humphry Clinker by Tobias George Smollett
page 21 of 505 (04%)
page 21 of 505 (04%)
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with such tumults of delight, as wholly deprived me of the power
of utterance, and wrapt me in a delirium of joy! -- encouraged by your sweetness of temper and affability, I ventured to describe the feelings of my heart -- even then you did not check my presumption -- you pitied my sufferings and gave me leave to hope you put a favourable -- perhaps too favourable a construction, on my appearance -- certain it is, I am no player in love -- I speak the language of my own heart; and have no prompter but nature. Yet there is something in this heart, which I have not yet disclosed. -- I flattered myself -- But, I will not -- I must not proceed. Dear Miss Liddy! for Heaven's sake, contrive, if possible, some means of letting me speak to you before you leave Gloucester; otherwise, I know not what will -- But I begin to rave again. -- I will endeavour to bear this trial with fortitude -- while I am capable of reflecting upon your tenderness and truth, I surely have no cause to despair -- a cloud hangs over me, and there is a dreadful weight upon my spirits! While you stay in this place, I shall continually hover about your lodgings, as the parted soul is said to linger about the grave where its mortal comfort lies. -- I know, if it is in your power, you will task your humanity -- your compassion -- shall I add, your affection? -- in order to assuage the almost intolerable disquiet that torments the heart of your afflicted, WILSON GLOUCESTER, March 31. To Sir WATKIN PHILLIPS, of Jesus college, Oxon. |
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