I was very sensible that I could not venture to remain long in a
place where I had once been seen without a shadow, and where I might
easily be betrayed; and perhaps, too, I recollected my first
introduction to Mr. John, and this was by no means a pleasing
reminiscence. However, I wished just to make a trial here, that I
might with greater ease and security visit some other place. But my
vanity for some time withheld me, for it is in this quality of our
race that the anchor takes the firmest hold.

Even the lovely Fanny, whom I again met in several places, without
her seeming to recollect that she had ever seen me before, bestowed
some notice on me; for wit and understanding were mine in abundance
now. When I spoke, I was listened to; and I was at a loss to know
how I had so easily acquired the art of commanding attention, and
giving the tone to the conversation.

The impression which I perceived I had made upon this fair one
completely turned my brain; and this was just what she wished.
After that, I pursued her with infinite pains through every
obstacle. My vanity was only intent on exciting hers to make a
conquest of me; but although the intoxication disturbed my head, it
failed to make the least impression on my heart.

But why detail to you the oft-repeated story which I have so often
heard from yourself?

However, in the old and well-known drama in which I played so worn-
out a part a catastrophe occurred of quite a peculiar nature, in a
manner equally unexpected to her, to me, and to everybody.