is so considerate: he has not given Charlotte one kiss in my
presence. Heaven reward him for it! I must love him for the
respect with which he treats her. He shows a regard for me, but
for this I suspect I am more indebted to Charlotte than to his own
fancy for me. Women have a delicate tact in such matters, and it
should be so. They cannot always succeed in keeping two rivals
on terms with each other; but, when they do, they are the only
gainers.

I cannot help esteeming Albert. The coolness of his temper contrasts
strongly with the impetuosity of mine, which I cannot conceal.
He has a great deal of feeling, and is fully sensible of the
treasure he possesses in Charlotte. He is free from ill-humour,
which you know is the fault I detest most.

He regards me as a man of sense; and my attachment to Charlotte,
and the interest I take in all that concerns her, augment his
triumph and his love. I shall not inquire whether he may not at
times tease her with some little jealousies; as I know, that, were
I in his place, I should not be entirely free from such sensations.

But, be that as it may, my pleasure with Charlotte is over. Call
it folly or infatuation, what signifies a name? The thing speaks
for itself. Before Albert came, I knew all that I know now. I
knew I could make no pretensions to her, nor did I offer any, that
is, as far as it was possible, in the presence of so much loveliness,
not to pant for its enjoyment. And now, behold me like a silly
fellow, staring with astonishment when another comes in, and
deprives me of my love.