for these seats of quiet, and willingly quit hope to be free from
fear."

"Do not seek to deter me from my purpose," said the Prince. "I am
impatient to see what thou hast seen; and since thou art thyself
weary of the valley, it is evident that thy former state was better
than this. Whatever be the consequence of my experiment, I am
resolved to judge with mine own eyes of the various conditions of
men, and then to make deliberately my CHOICE OF LIFE."

"I am afraid," said Imlac, "you are hindered by stronger restraints
than my persuasions; yet, if your determination is fixed, I do not
counsel you to despair. Few things are impossible to diligence and
skill."



CHAPTER XIII--RASSELAS DISCOVERS THE MEANS OF ESCAPE.



The Prince now dismissed his favourite to rest; but the narrative
of wonders and novelties filled his mind with perturbation. He
revolved all that he had heard, and prepared innumerable questions
for the morning.

Much of his uneasiness was now removed. He had a friend to whom he
could impart his thoughts, and whose experience could assist him in
his designs. His heart was no longer condemned to swell with
silent vexation. He thought that even the Happy Valley might be