Go bid the stones a journey upward make:
And when these false to their old motions prove,
Then will I cease thee, thee alone to love.”—Cowley.
In an emotion of surprise at so unexpected a visit, the book she was reading dropped from Amanda, and she arose in visible agitation4.
“I fear,” said his lordship, “I have intruded5 somewhat abruptly6 upon you; but my apology for doing so must be my ardent8 wish of using an opportunity so propitious9 for a mutual10 eclaircissement—an opportunity I might, perhaps, vainly seek again.”
He took her trembling hand, led her to the sofa, and placed[Pg 234] himself by her. As a means of leading to the desired eclaircissement, he related the agonies he had suffered at returning to Tudor Hall, and finding her gone—gone in a manner so inexplicable11, that the more he reflected on it the more wretched he grew. He described the hopes and fears which alternately fluctuated in his mind during his continuance in Ireland, and which often drove him into a state nearly bordering on distraction12. He mentioned the resolution, though painful in the extreme, which he had adopted on the first appearance of Sir Charles Bingley’s particularity; and finally concluded by assuring her, notwithstanding all his incertitude14 and anxiety, his tenderness had never known diminution15.
Encouraged by this assurance, Amanda, with restored composure, informed him of the reason of her precipitate16 journey from Wales, and the incidents which prevented her meeting him in Ireland, as he had expected. Though delicacy17 forbade her dwelling18, like Lord Mortimer, on the wretchedness occasioned by their separation, and mutual misapprehensions of each other, she could not avoid touching21 upon it sufficiently22, indeed, to convince him she had been a sympathizing participator in all the uneasiness he had suffered.
Restored to the confidence of Mortimer, Amanda appeared dearer to his soul than ever. Pleasure beamed from his eyes as he pressed her to his bosom23, and exclaimed, “I may again call you my own Amanda; again sketch24 scenes of felicity, and call upon you to realize them.” Yet, in the midst of this transport, a sudden gloom clouded his countenance25; and after gazing on her some minutes, with pensive26 tenderness, he fervently27 exclaimed, “Would to Heaven, in this hour of perfect reconciliation28, I could say that all obstacles to our future happiness were removed.” Amanda involuntarily shuddered29, and continued silent.
“That my father will throw difficulties in the way of our union, I cannot deny my apprehension20 of,” said Lord Mortimer; “though truly noble and generous in his nature, he is sometimes, like the rest of mankind, influenced by interested motives30. He has long, from such motives, set his heart on a connection with the Marquis of Roslin’s family. Though fully31 determined32 in my intentions, I have hitherto forborne an explicit33 declaration of them to him, trusting that some propitious chance would yet second my wishes, and save me the painful necessity of disturbing the harmony which has ever subsisted34 between us.”
“Oh! my lord!” said Amanda, turning pale, and shrinking from him, “let me not be the unfortunate cause of disturb[Pg 235]ing that harmony. Comply with the wishes of Lord Cherbury, marry Lady Euphrasia, and let me be forgotten.”
“Amanda,” cried his lordship, “accuse not yourself of being the cause of any disagreement between us. Had I never seen you, with respect to Lady Euphrasia, I should have felt the same inability to comply with his wishes. To me her person is not more unpleasing than her mind. I have long been convinced that wealth alone was insufficient35 to bestow36 felicity, and have ever considered the man who could sacrifice his feelings at the shrine37 of interest or ambition, degraded below the standard of humanity; that to marry, merely from selfish considerations, was one of the most culpable39, most contemptible40 actions which could be committed. To enter into such a union, I want the propensities41 which can alone ever occasion it, namely, a violent passion for the enjoyments42 only attainable43 through the medium of wealth. Left at an early age uncontrolled master of my own actions, I drank freely of the cup of pleasure, but found it soon pall44 upon my taste. It was, indeed, unmixed with any of those refined ingredients which can only please the intellectual appetite, and might properly be termed the cup of false instead of real pleasure. Thinking, therefore, as I do, that a union without love is abhorrent45 to probity46 and sensibility, and that the dissipated pleasures of life are not only prejudicial but tiresome47, I naturally wish to secure to myself domestic happiness; but never could it be experienced except united to a woman whom my reason thoroughly48 approved, who should at once possess my unbounded confidence and tenderest affection. Who should be, not only the promoter of my joys, but the assuager of my cares. In you I have found such a woman, such a being, as I candidly49 confess, some time ago, I thought it impossible to meet with. To you I am bound by a sentiment even stronger than love—by honor—and with real gratitude50 acknowledge my obligations in being permitted to atone51, in some degree, for my errors relative to you. But I will not allow my Amanda to suppose these errors proceeded from any settled depravity of soul. Allowed to be, as I have before said, my own master at an early period, from the natural thoughtlessness of youth, I was led into scenes which the judgment52 of riper years has since severely53 condemned54. Here, too, often I met with women whose manners, instead of checking, gave a latitude55 to freedom; women, too, who, from their situations in life, had every advantage that could be requisite56 for improving and refining their minds. From conversing57 with them I gradually imbibed58 a prejudice against the whole sex, and under that[Pg 236] prejudice first beheld59 you, and feared either to doubt or to believe the reality of the innocence60 you appeared to possess.
“Convinced at length, most fully, most happily convinced of its reality, my prejudices no longer remained; they vanished like mists before the sun—or rather like the illusions of falsehood before the influence of truth. Were those, my dear Amanda, of your sex, who, like you, had the resistless power of pleasing, to use the faculties61 assigned them by a bounteous62 Providence63 in the cause of virtue64, they would soon check the dissipation of the times.
“’Tis impossible to express the power a beautiful form has over the human mind; that power might be exerted for nobler purposes. Purity speaking from love-inspiring lips would, like the voice of Adam’s heavenly guest, so sweetly breathe upon the ear as insensibly to influence the heart; the libertine65 it corrected would, if not utterly66 hardened, reform; no longer would he glory in his vices67, but touched and abashed68, instead of destroying, worship female virtue.
“But I wander from the purpose of my soul. Convinced as I am of the dissimilarity between my father’s inclinations69 and mine, I think it better to give no intimation of my present intentions, which, if permitted by you, I am unalterably determined on fulfilling, as I should consider it as highly insulting to him to incur71 his prohibition72, and then act in defiance73 of it, though my heart would glory in avowing74 its choice. The peculiar76 circumstances I have just mentioned will, I trust, induce my Amanda to excuse a temporary concealment78 of it, till beyond the power of mortals to separate us—a private and immediate79 union, the exigency80 of situation, and the security of felicity demands. I shall feel a trembling apprehension till I call you mine; life is too short to permit the waste of time in idle scruples81 and unmeaning ceremonies. The eye of suspicion has long rested upon us, and would, I am convinced, effect a premature82 discovery, if we took not some measure to prevent it.
“Deem me not too precipitate, my Amanda,” passing his arm gently round her waist, “if I ask you to-morrow night, for the last sweet proof of confidence you can give me, by putting yourself under my protection. A journey to Scotland is unavoidable—in the arrangements I shall make for it, all that is due to delicacy I shall consider.”
“Mention it no more, my lord,” said Amanda, in a faltering84 accent; “no longer delude85 your imagination or mine with the hopes of being united.”
Hitherto she had believed the approbation86 of Lord Cher[Pg 237]bury to the wishes of his son would be obtained, the moment he was convinced how essential their gratification was to his felicity. She judged of him by her father, who, she was convinced, if situations were reversed, would bestow her on Mortimer without hesitation87. These ideas so nourished her attachment88, that, like the vital parts of existence, it at length became painfully, almost fatally, susceptible89 of every shock. Her dream of happiness was over the moment she heard Lord Cherbury’s consent was not to be asked, from a fear of its being refused. ’Twas misery90 to be separated from Lord Mortimer, but it was guilt91 and misery to marry him clandestinely93, after the solemn injunction her father had given her against such a step. The shock of disappointment could not be borne with composure; it pressed like a cold dead weight upon her heart. She trembled, and, unable to support herself, sunk against the shoulder of Lord Mortimer, while a shower of tears proclaimed her agony. Alarmed by her emotion, Lord Mortimer hastily demanded its source, and the reason of the words which had just escaped her.
“Because, my lord,” replied she, “I cannot consent to a clandestine92 measure, nor bear you should incur the displeasure of Lord Cherbury on my account. Though Lady Euphrasia Sutherland is not agreeable, there are many women who, with equal rank and fortune, possess the perfections suited to your taste. Seek for one of these—choose from among them a happy daughter of prosperity, and let Amanda, untitled, unportioned, and unpleasing to your father, return to an obscurity which owes its comfort to his fostering bounty94.” “Does this advice,” asked Lord Mortimer, “proceed from Amanda’s heart?” “No,” replied she, hesitatingly, and smiling through her tears, “not from her heart, but from a better counsellor, her reason.”
“And shall I not obey the dictates95 of reason,” replied he, “in uniting my destiny to yours? Reason directs us to seek happiness through virtuous96 means; and what means are so adapted for that purpose, as a union with a beloved and amiable97 woman? No, Amanda; no titled daughter of prosperity, to use your own words, shall ever attract my affections from you. ‘Imagination cannot form a shape, besides your own, to like of;’ a shape which even if despoiled98 of its graces, would enshrine a mind so transcendently lovely, as to secure my admiration99. In choosing you as the partner of my future days, I do not infringe100 the moral obligation which exists between father and son; for as, on one hand, it does not require weak indulgence; so, on the other, it does not demand implicit101[Pg 238] obedience102, if reason and happiness must be sacrificed by it. Nothing would have tempted103 me to propose a private union but the hope of escaping many disagreeable circumstances by it. If you persist, however, in rejecting it, I shall openly avow75 my intentions, for a long continuance of anxiety and suspense104 I cannot support.”
“Do you think, then,” said Amanda, “I would enter your family amidst confusion and altercation105? No, my lord, rashly or clandestinely I never will consent to enter it.”
“Is this the happiness I promised myself would crown our reconciliation?” exclaimed Lord Mortimer, rising hastily and traversing the apartment. “Is an obstinate106 adherence107 to rigid108 punctilio the only proof of regard I shall receive from Amanda? Will she make no trifling109 sacrifice to the man who adores her, and whom she professes110 to esteem111?”
“Any sacrifice, my lord, compatible with virtue and filial duty, most willingly would I make; but beyond these limits I must not, cannot, will not step. Cold, joyless, and unworthy of your acceptance would be the hand you would receive if given against my conviction of what was right. Oh, never may the hour arrive in which I should blush to see my father; in which I should be accused of injuring the honor intrusted to my charge, and feel oppressed with the consciousness of having planted thorns in the breast that depended on me for happiness.”
“Do not be too inflexible112, my Amanda,” cried Lord Mortimer, resuming his seat, “nor suffer too great a degree of refinement113 to involve you in wretchedness; felicity is seldom attained114 without some pain; a little resolution on your side would overcome any difficulties that lay between us and it; when the act was past, my father would naturally lose his resentment115, from perceiving its inefficacy, and family concord116 would speedily be restored. Araminta adores you; with rapture117 would she receive her dear and lovely sister to her bosom; your father, happy in your happiness, would be convinced his notions heretofore were too scrupulous118, and that in complying with my wishes you had neither violated your own delicacy nor tarnished119 his honor.”
“Ah, my lord, your arguments have not the effect you desire. I cannot be deluded120 by them, to view things in the light you wish. To unite myself clandestinely to you would be to fly in the face of parental121 authority; to be proposed to Lord Cherbury, when almost certain of a refusal, would not only subject me to insult, but dissolve the friendship which has hitherto subsisted between his lordship and my father. Situ[Pg 239]ated as we are, our only expedient122 is to separate; ’tis absurd to think longer of a connection against which there are such obstacles; the task of trying to forget will be easier to you, my lord, than you now perhaps imagine; the scenes you must be engaged in are well calculated to expunge123 painful remembrances; in the retirement124 my destiny has doomed125 me to my efforts will not be wanting to render me equally successful.”
The tears trickled126 down Amanda’s pale cheeks as she spoke127; she believed that they must part, and the belief was attended with a pang128 of unutterable anguish129: pleased and pained by her sensibility, Lord Mortimer bent130 forward and looked into her face.
“Are these tears,” said he, “to enforce me to the only expedient you say remains131? Ah, my Amanda,” clasping her to his breast, “the task of forgetting you could never be accomplished132—could never be attempted; life would be tasteless if not spent with you; never will I relinquish133 the delightful134 hope of a union yet taking place. A sudden thought,” resumed he, after pausing a few minutes, “has just occurred. I have an aunt, the only remaining sister of Lord Cherbury, a generous, tender, exalted135 woman; I have ever been her particular favorite; my Amanda, I know, is the very kind of being she would select, if the choice devolved on her, for my wife: she is now in the country; I will write immediately, inform her of our situation, and entreat136 her to come up to town to use her influence with my father in our favor. Her fortune is large, from the bequest137 of a rich relation; and from the generosity138 of her disposition139 I have no doubt she would render the loss of Lady Euphrasia’s fortune very immaterial to her brother. This is the only scheme I can possibly devise for the completion of our happiness, according to your notions, and I hope it meets your approbation.”
It appeared indeed, a feasible one to Amanda; and as it could not possibly excite any ideas unfavorable to her father’s integrity, she gave her consent to its being tried.
Her heart felt relieved of an oppressive load, as the hope revived that it might be accomplished. Lord Mortimer wiped away her tears; and the cloud which hung over them both being dispersed140, they talked with pleasure of future days. Lord Mortimer described the various schemes he had planned for their mode of life. Amanda smiled at the easiness with which he contrived141 them, and secretly wished he might find it as easy to realize as to project.
“Though the retired142 path of life,” said he, “might be more agreeable to us than the frequented and public one, we must[Pg 240] make some little sacrifice of inclination70 to the community to which we belong. On an elevated station and affluent143 fortune there are claims from subordinate ranks which cannot be avoided without injuring them. Neither should I wish to hide the beautiful gem83 I shall possess in obscurity; but, after a winter of what I call moderate dissipation, we will hasten to the sequestered144 shades of Tudor Hall.” He dwelt with pleasure on the calm and rational joys they should experience there; nor could forbear hinting at the period when new tendernesses, new sympathies, would be awakened145 in their souls; when little prattling146 beings should frolic before them, and literally147 strew148 roses in their paths. He expressed his wish of having Fitzalan a constant resident with them: and was proceeding149 to mention some alterations151 he intended at Tudor Hall, when the return of Lady Greystock’s carriage effectually disturbed him. Lord Mortimer, however, had time to assure Amanda, ere she entered the room, that he had no doubt but everything would be soon settled according to their wishes, and that he would take every opportunity her ladyship’s absence gave him of visiting her.
“So, so,” said Lady Greystock, coming into the room, “this has been Miss Fitzalan’s levee-day. Why, I declare, my dear, now that I know of the agreeable tete-??-tetes you can enjoy, I shall feel no uneasiness at leaving you to yourself.”
Amanda blushed deeply; and Lord Mortimer thought in this speech he perceived a degree of irony152 which seemed to say all was not right in the speaker’s heart towards Amanda, and on this account felt more anxious than ever to have her under his own protection. Animated153 by the idea that this would soon be the case, he told her ladyship, smiling, “she should be obliged to him or any other person who could relieve her mind from uneasiness,” and departed. This had been a busy and interesting day to Amanda, and the variety of emotions it had given rise to produced a languor154 in her mind and frame she could not shake off.
Her expectations were not as sanguine155 as Lord Mortimer’s. Once severely disappointed, she dreaded157 again to give too great a latitude to hope. Happiness was in view, but she doubted much whether it would ever be within her reach; yet the pain of suspense she endeavored to alleviate158 by reflecting that every event was under the direction of a superior Being, who knew best what would constitute the felicity of His creatures.
Lady Greystock learned from her maid the length of Lord Mortimer’s visit, and she was convinced from that circumstance[Pg 241] as well as from the look and absent manner of Amanda, that something material had happened in the course of it. In the evening they were engaged to a party, and ere they separated after dinner to dress for it, a plain-looking woman was shown into the room, whom Amanda instantly recollected159 to be the person at whose house she and her father had lodged160 on quitting Devonshire to secrete161 themselves from Colonel Belgrave. This woman had been bribed162 to serve him, and had forced several letters upon Amanda, who, therefore, naturally abhorred163 the sight of a person that had joined in so infamous164 a plot against her; and to her exclamation165 of surprise and pleasure only returned a cool bow, and directly left the room. She was vexed166 at seeing this woman. The conduct of Colonel Belgrave had hitherto been concealed167, from motives of pride and delicacy; and to Lady Greystock, of all other beings, she wished it not revealed. Her only hope of its not being so was that this woman, on her own account, would not mention it, as she must be conscious that her efforts to serve him were not undiscovered.
Mrs. Jennings had been housekeeper168 to Lady Greystock during her residence in England, and so successfully ingratiated herself into her favor that, though dismissed from her service, she yet retained it. Lady Greystock was surprised to see she and Amanda knew each other, and inquired minutely how the acquaintance had commenced. The manner in which she mentioned Amanda convinced Mrs. Jennings she was not high in her estimation, and from this conviction she thought she might safely assert any falsehood she pleased against her. As she knew enough of her lady’s disposition to be assured she never would contradict an assertion to the prejudice of a person she disliked by what she designed saying, she trusted anything Amanda might say against her would appear malicious169, and that she should also be revenged for the disdainful air with which she had regarded her.
She told her ladyship, “that near a year back Miss Fitzalan had been a lodger170 of hers, as also an old officer, she called her father; but had she known what kind of people they were, she never would have admitted them into her house. Miss was followed by such a set of gallants, she really thought the reputation of her house would have been ruined. Among them was a Colonel Belgrave, a sad rake, who, she believed, was the favorite. She was determined on making them decamp, when suddenly Miss went off, nobody knew where, but it might easily be guessed. She did not travel alone, for the colonel disappeared at the same time.”
[Pg 242] The character of Fitzalan, and the uniform propriety171 of Amanda’s conduct, forbade Lady Greystock’s giving implicit credit to what Mrs. Jennings said. She perceived in it the exaggerations of malice172 and falsehood, occasioned, she supposed by disappointed avarice173, or offended pride. She resolved, however, to relate all she heard to the marchioness, without betraying the smallest doubt of its veracity174.
It may appear strange that Lady Greystock, after taking Amanda, unsolicited, under her protection, should, without any cause for enmity, seek to injure her—but Lady Greystock was a woman devoid175 of principle. From selfish motives she had taken Amanda, and from selfish motives she was ready to sacrifice her. Her ladyship had enjoyed so much happiness in her matrimonial connections, that she had no objection again to enter the lists of Hymen, and Lord Cherbury was the object at which her present wishes pointed156. The marchioness had hinted, in pretty plain terms, that if she counteracted176 Lord Mortimer’s intentions respecting Amanda, she would forward hers relative to Lord Cherbury.
She thought what Mrs. Jennings had alleged177 would effectually forward their plans, as she knew, if called upon, she would support it. The next morning she went to Portman Square, to communicate her important intelligence to the marchioness and Lady Euphrasia.
Joy and exultation178 sat upon their features at receiving this interesting communication, which opened so charming a prospect179 of separating Lord Mortimer from Amanda, by giving them the power of injuring her character. This joy and exultation they deemed requisite for some time to conceal77. They considered their measures would be more successful for being gradually brought about, and, therefore, resolved rather to undermine, than directly strike at the peace of Amanda.
Like Lady Greystock, they disbelieved Mrs. Jenning’s tale; but, like her ladyship, confined this disbelief to their own bosoms180. In the manner, the appearance of Amanda, there was an innocence, a mildness, that denoted something holy dwelt within her breast, and forbade the entrance of any impure181 or wayward passion; besides, from a gentleman who had resided in Devonshire, they learned the distress182 Fitzalan was reduced to, by Belgrave’s revenge for the virtue of his daughter. This gentleman was now, however, on the continent, and they had no fear of their allegations against Amanda being contradicted, or their schemes against her being overthrown183.
After some consultation184, it was agreed, as a means of expe[Pg 243]diting their plot, that Lady Greystock and Amanda should immediately remove to the marchioness’s house. By this change of abode185, too, Lord Mortimer would be prevented taking any material step relative to Amanda, till the period arrived, when his own inclination would, most probably, render any further trouble on that account unnecessary.
Lady Greystock, on her return to Pall Mall, after a warm eulogium on the friendship of the marchioness, mentioned the invitation she had given them to her house, which she declared she could not refuse, as it was made with an ardent desire of enjoying more of their society than she had hitherto done, during their short stay in London. She also told Amanda, that both the marchioness and Lady Euphrasia had expressed a tender regard for her, and a wish of proving to the world, that any coolness which existed between their families was removed, by her becoming their guest.
This projected removal was extremely disagreeable to Amanda, as it not only terminated the morning interviews which were to take place between her and Lord Mortimer, during the absence of Lady Greystock with her lawyers, but threatened to impose a restraint upon her looks, as well as actions, being confident, from the views and suspicions of Lady Euphrasia, she should be continually watched with the closest circumspection186. Her part, however, was acquiescence187. The lodgings188 were discharged, and the next morning they took up their residence under the Marquis of Roslin’s roof, to the infinite surprise and mortification189 of Lord Mortimer, who, like Amanda, anticipated the disagreeable consequences which would result from it.
The altered manners of the marchioness and Lady Euphrasia surprised Amanda. They received her not merely with politeness, but affection; recapitulated190 all Lady Greystock had already said concerning their regard; bade her consider herself entirely191 at home in their house, and appointed a maid solely192 to attend her.
Notwithstanding their former cool, even contemptuous conduct, Amanda, the child of innocence and simplicity193, could not believe the alteration150 in their manners feigned194; she rather believed that her own patience and humility195 had at length conciliated their regard. The idea pleased her, and like every other, which she supposed could give her father satisfaction, it was instantly communicated to him.
She found herself most agreeably mistaken relative to the restraint she had feared. She was perfect mistress of her own[Pg 244] time and actions; and when she saw Lord Mortimer no lowering looks nor studied interference, as heretofore, from the marchioness or Lady Euphrasia, prevented their frequently conversing together. The marchioness made her several elegant presents, and Lady Euphrasia frequently dropped the formal appellation196 of Miss Fitzalan for the more familiar one of Amanda.
Sir Charles Bingley, agreeable to his resolution of not relinquishing197 Amanda without another effort for her favor, still persisted in his attentions, and visited constantly at the marquis’s.
Amanda had been about a fortnight in Portman Square, when she went one night with the marchioness, Lady Euphrasia, Miss Malcolm, and Lady Greystock to the Pantheon. Lord Mortimer had told her, that if he could possibly leave a particular party he was engaged to, he would be there. She, therefore, on that account, wished to keep herself disengaged; but immediately on her entrance she was joined by Sir Charles Bingley, and she found she must either dance with him as he requested, or consent to listen to his usual conversation; and she chose the first, as being least particular. The dancing over, Sir Charles was conducting her to get some refreshments198, when a gentleman, hastily stepping forward, saluted199 him by his name. Amanda started at the sound of his voice; she raised her eyes, and with equal horror and surprise beheld Colonel Belgrave.
She turned pale, trembled, and involuntarily exclaimed, “Gracious Heaven!” Her soul recoiled200 at his sight, as if an evil genius had suddenly darted201 into her path to blast her hopes of happiness. Sickening with emotion, her head grew giddy, and she caught Sir Charles’s arm to prevent her falling.
Alarmed by her paleness and agitation, he hastily demanded the cause of her disorder202, willing to believe, notwithstanding what he had seen, that it did not proceed from the sight of Colonel Belgrave. “O take me, take me from this room!” was all, in faltering accents, Amanda could pronounce, still leaning on him for support. Colonel Belgrave inquired tenderly what he could do to serve her, and at the same time attempted to take her hand. She shrunk from his touch with a look expressive203 of horror, and again besought204 Sir Charles to take her from the room, and procure205 her a conveyance206 home. Her agitation now became contagious207. It was visible to Sir Charles that it proceeded from seeing Colonel Belgrave, and he trembled as he supported her.
[Pg 245] Belgrave offered his services in assisting to support her from the room, but she motioned with her hand to repulse208 him.
At the door they met Lord Mortimer entering. Terrified by the situation of Amanda, all caution, all reserve forsook209 him, and his rapid and impassioned inquiries210 betrayed the tender interest she had in his heart. Unable to answer them herself, Sir Charles replied for her, saying, “She had been taken extremely ill after dancing,” and added, “he would resign her to his lordship’s protection while he went to procure her a chair.”
Lord Mortimer received the lovely trembler in his arms. He softly called her his Amanda, the beloved of his soul, and she began to revive. His presence was at once a relief and comfort to her, and his language soothed211 the perturbations of her mind; but as she raised her head from his shoulder, she beheld Colonel Belgrave standing13 near them. His invidious eyes fastened on her. She averted213 her head, and, saying the air would do her good, Lord Mortimer led her forward, and took this opportunity of expressing his wishes for the period when he should be at liberty to watch over her with guardian214 care, soothe212 every weakness and soften215 every care.
In a few minutes Sir Charles returned, and told her he had procured216 a chair. She thanked him with grateful sweetness for his attention, and requested Lord Mortimer to acquaint the ladies with the reason of her abrupt7 departure. His lordship wished himself to have attended her to Portman Square, but she thought it would appear too particular, and would not suffer him. She retired to her room immediately on her return, and endeavored, though unsuccessfully, to compose her spirits.
The distress she suffered from Belgrave’s conduct had left an impression on her mind which could not be erased217. The terror his presence inspired was too powerful for reason to conquer, and raised the most gloomy presages218 in her mind. She believed him capable of any villany. His looks had declared a continuance of illicit219 love. She trembled at the idea of his stratagems220 being renewed. Her apprehensions19 were doubly painful from the necessity of concealment, lest those dearer to her than existence should be involved in danger on her account. To Heaven she looked up for protection, and the terrors of her heart were somewhat lessened221, conscious that Heaven could render the aims of Belgrave against her peace as abortive222 as those against her innocence had been.
Sir Charles Bingley parted from Lord Mortimer immediately after Amanda’s departure, and returned arm in arm with[Pg 246] Belgrave to the room. “Belgrave,” said he abruptly, after musing223 some minutes, “you know Miss Fitzalan?”
Belgrave answered not hastily. He appeared as if deliberating on the reply he should give. At last, “I do know Miss Fitzalan,” cried he; “her father was my tenant224 in Devonshire; she is one of the loveliest girls I ever knew.” “Lovely, indeed,” said Sir Charles, with a deep and involuntary sigh; “but it is somewhat extraordinary to me that, instead of noticing you as a friend or acquaintance, she should look alarmed and agitated225, as if she had seen an enemy.” “My dear Bingley,” exclaimed Belgrave, “surely at this time of day you cannot be a stranger to the unaccountable caprices of the female mind.” “’Tis very extraordinary to me, I own,” resumed Sir Charles, “that Miss Fitzalan should behave as she did to you. Were you and her family ever very intimate?”
“Belgrave,” exclaimed Sir Charles, passionately227, “your manner appears so mysterious that it distracts me. If friendship will not induce you to account for it, my intentions relative to Miss Fitzalan will compel me to insist on your doing so.” “Come, come, Bingley,” replied the colonel, “this is not a country for extorting228 confession229. However, seriously, you might depend on my honor, exclusive of my friendship, to conceal nothing from you in which you were materially interested.” So saying, he snatched away his arm, rushed into the crowd, and instantly disappeared.
This assurance, however, could not calm the disquietude of Sir Charles. His soul was tortured with impatience230 and anxiety for an explanation of the mystery, which the agitation of Amanda, and the evasive answers of Belgrave had betrayed. He sought the latter through the room till convinced of his departure, and resolved the next morning to entreat him to deal candidly with him.
Agreeably to this resolution, he was preparing, after breakfast, for his visit, when a letter was brought him which contained the following lines:—
“If Sir Charles Bingley has the least regard for his honor or tranquillity231, he will immediately relinquish his intentions relative to Miss Fitzalan. This caution comes from a sincere friend—from a person whom delicacy, not want of veracity, urges to this secret mode of giving it.”
Sir Charles perused232 and re-perused the letter, as if doubting the evidence of his eyes. He at last flung it from him, and[Pg 247] clasping his hands together exclaimed: “This is indeed a horrible explanation.” He took up the detested233 paper. Again he examined the characters, and recognized the writing of Colonel Belgrave. He hastily snatched up his hat, and with the paper in his hand, flew directly to his house. The colonel was alone.
“Belgrave,” said Sir Charles, in almost breathless agitation, “are you the author of this letter?” presenting it to him.
Belgrave took it, read it, but continued silent.
“Oh! Belgrave!” exclaimed Sir Charles, in a voice trembling with agony, “pity and relieve my suspense.” “I am the author of it,” replied Belgrave, with solemnity; “Miss Fitzalan and I were once tenderly attached. I trust I am no deliberate libertine; but, when a lovely, seducing234 girl was thrown purposely in my way——” “Oh, stop,” said Sir Charles, “to me any extenuation235 of your conduct is unnecessary; ’tis sufficient to know that Miss Fitzalan and I are forever separated.” His emotion overpowered him. He leaned on a table, and covered his face with a handkerchief.
“The shock I have received,” said he, “almost unmans me. Amanda was, alas236! I must say is, dear, inexpressibly dear to my soul. I thought her the most lovely, the most estimable of women; and the anguish I now feel, is more on her account than my own. I cannot bear the idea of the contempt which may fall upon her. Oh, Belgrave, ’tis melancholy237 to behold238 a human being, so endowed by nature as she is, insensible or unworthy of her blessings239. Amanda,” he continued, after a pause, “never encouraged me; I therefore cannot accuse her of intending deceit.”
“She never encouraged you,” replied Belgrave, “because she was ambitious of a higher title. Amanda, beneath a specious240 appearance of innocence, conceals241 a light disposition and a designing heart. She aspires242 to Mortimer’s hand, and may probably succeed, for his language and attentions to her last night were those of a tender lover.”
“I shall return immediately to Ireland,” said Sir Charles, “and endeavor to forget I have ever seen her. She has made me indeed experience all the fervency243 of love, and bitterness of disappointment. What I felt for her, I think I shall never again feel for any woman.
“——I’ll lock up all the gates of love,
To turn all beauty into thoughts of harm,
And never more shall it be gracious.”
[Pg 248] Sir Charles Bingley and Colonel Belgrave, in early life, had contracted a friendship for each other which time had strengthened in one, but reduced to a mere38 shadow in the other. On meeting the colonel unexpectedly in town, Sir Charles had informed him of his intentions relative to Amanda. His heart throbbed246 at the mention of her name. He had long endeavored to discover her. Pride, love, and revenge, were all concerned in the accomplishment247 of his designs, which disappointment had only stimulated248. He was one of those determined characters which never relinquish a purpose, “though heaven and earth that purpose crossed.” The confidence Sir Charles reposed249 in him, joined to his warm and unsuspicious temper, convinced him he would be credulous250 enough to believe any imputation251 he should cast on Amanda. He therefore lost no time in contriving252 this execrable scheme, without the smallest compunction, for destroying the reputation of an innocent girl, or injuring the happiness of an amiable man.
Removed from the protection of her father, he believed his destined253 victim could not escape the snare254 he should spread for her; and as a means of expediting his success, under the appearance of feeling, urged Sir Charles’s return to Ireland.
The easy credit which Sir Charles gave to the vile255 allegations of Belgrave, cannot be wondered at, when his long intimacy256 and total ignorance of his real character are considered. He knew Belgrave to be a gay man, but he never imagined him to be a hardened libertine. Besides, he never could have supposed any man would have been so audacious, or sufficiently base, as to make such an assertion as Belgrave had done against Amanda, without truth for his support.
The errors of his friend, though the source of unspeakable anguish to him, were more pitied than condemned, as he rather believed they proceeded from the impetuosity of passion, than the deliberation of design, and that they were long since sincerely repented257 of.
Amanda could not be forgotten; the hold she had on his heart could not easily be shaken off; and like the recording258 angel, he was often tempted to drop a tear over her faults, and obliterate259 them forever from his memory. This, however, was considered the mere suggestion of weakness, and he ordered immediate preparations to be made for his return to Ireland.
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1
forsake
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| vt.遗弃，抛弃；舍弃，放弃 | |
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2
reverence
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| n.敬畏，尊敬，尊严；Reverence:对某些基督教神职人员的尊称；v.尊敬，敬畏，崇敬 | |
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3
ascend
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| vi.渐渐上升，升高；vt.攀登，登上 | |
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4
agitation
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| n.搅动；搅拌；鼓动，煽动 | |
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5
intruded
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| n.侵入的，推进的v.侵入，侵扰，打扰( intrude的过去式和过去分词 )；把…强加于 | |
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6
abruptly
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| adv.突然地，出其不意地 | |
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abrupt
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| adj.突然的，意外的；唐突的，鲁莽的 | |
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ardent
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，强烈的，烈性的 | |
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propitious
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| adj.吉利的；顺利的 | |
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10
mutual
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| adj.相互的，彼此的；共同的，共有的 | |
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inexplicable
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| adj.无法解释的，难理解的 | |
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12
distraction
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| n.精神涣散，精神不集中，消遣，娱乐 | |
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standing
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| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
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14
incertitude
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| n.疑惑，不确定 | |
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15
diminution
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| n.减少；变小 | |
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16
precipitate
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| adj.突如其来的；vt.使突然发生；n.沉淀物 | |
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17
delicacy
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| n.精致，细微，微妙，精良；美味，佳肴 | |
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18
dwelling
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| n.住宅，住所，寓所 | |
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19
apprehensions
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| 疑惧 | |
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apprehension
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| n.理解，领悟；逮捕，拘捕；忧虑 | |
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21
touching
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| adj.动人的，使人感伤的 | |
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22
sufficiently
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| adv.足够地，充分地 | |
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23
bosom
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| n.胸，胸部；胸怀；内心；adj.亲密的 | |
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24
sketch
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| n.草图；梗概；素描；v.素描；概述 | |
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25
countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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26
pensive
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| a.沉思的,哀思的,忧沉的 | |
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27
fervently
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| adv.热烈地，热情地，强烈地 | |
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28
reconciliation
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| n.和解，和谐，一致 | |
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29
shuddered
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| v.战栗( shudder的过去式和过去分词 )；发抖；（机器、车辆等）突然震动；颤动 | |
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30
motives
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| n.动机，目的( motive的名词复数 ) | |
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31
fully
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| adv.完全地，全部地，彻底地；充分地 | |
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32
determined
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| adj.坚定的；有决心的 | |
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explicit
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| adj.详述的，明确的；坦率的；显然的 | |
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34
subsisted
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| v.（靠很少的钱或食物）维持生活，生存下去( subsist的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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35
insufficient
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| adj.(for，of)不足的，不够的 | |
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36
bestow
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| v.把…赠与，把…授予；花费 | |
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37
shrine
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| n.圣地，神龛，庙；v.将...置于神龛内，把...奉为神圣 | |
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38
mere
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| adj.纯粹的；仅仅，只不过 | |
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39
culpable
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| adj.有罪的，该受谴责的 | |
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40
contemptible
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| adj.可鄙的，可轻视的，卑劣的 | |
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41
propensities
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| n.倾向，习性( propensity的名词复数 ) | |
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42
enjoyments
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| 愉快( enjoyment的名词复数 )； 令人愉快的事物； 享有； 享受 | |
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43
attainable
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| a.可达到的，可获得的 | |
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44
pall
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| v.覆盖，使平淡无味；n.柩衣，棺罩；棺材；帷幕 | |
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45
abhorrent
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| adj.可恶的，可恨的，讨厌的 | |
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46
probity
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| n.刚直；廉洁，正直 | |
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47
tiresome
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| adj.令人疲劳的，令人厌倦的 | |
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48
thoroughly
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| adv.完全地，彻底地，十足地 | |
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49
candidly
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| adv.坦率地，直率而诚恳地 | |
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50
gratitude
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| adj.感激，感谢 | |
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51
atone
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| v.赎罪，补偿 | |
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52
judgment
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| n.审判；判断力，识别力，看法，意见 | |
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53
severely
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| adv.严格地；严厉地；非常恶劣地 | |
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54
condemned
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| adj. 被责难的, 被宣告有罪的 动词condemn的过去式和过去分词 | |
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55
latitude
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| n.纬度，行动或言论的自由(范围)，(pl.)地区 | |
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56
requisite
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| adj.需要的，必不可少的；n.必需品 | |
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57
conversing
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| v.交谈，谈话( converse的现在分词 ) | |
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58
imbibed
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| v.吸收( imbibe的过去式和过去分词 )；喝；吸取；吸气 | |
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59
beheld
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| v.看，注视( behold的过去式和过去分词 )；瞧；看呀；（叙述中用于引出某人意外的出现）哎哟 | |
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60
innocence
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| n.无罪；天真；无害 | |
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61
faculties
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| n.能力( faculty的名词复数 )；全体教职员；技巧；院 | |
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62
bounteous
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| adj.丰富的 | |
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63
providence
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| n.深谋远虑，天道，天意；远见；节约；上帝 | |
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64
virtue
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| n.德行，美德；贞操；优点；功效，效力 | |
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65
libertine
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| n.淫荡者；adj.放荡的，自由思想的 | |
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66
utterly
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| adv.完全地，绝对地 | |
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67
vices
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| 缺陷( vice的名词复数 )； 恶习； 不道德行为； 台钳 | |
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68
abashed
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| adj.窘迫的，尴尬的v.使羞愧，使局促，使窘迫( abash的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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69
inclinations
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| 倾向( inclination的名词复数 )； 倾斜； 爱好； 斜坡 | |
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70
inclination
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| n.倾斜；点头；弯腰；斜坡；倾度；倾向；爱好 | |
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71
incur
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| vt.招致，蒙受，遭遇 | |
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72
prohibition
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| n.禁止；禁令，禁律 | |
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73
defiance
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| n.挑战，挑衅，蔑视，违抗 | |
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74
avowing
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| v.公开声明，承认( avow的现在分词 ) | |
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75
avow
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| v.承认，公开宣称 | |
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76
peculiar
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| adj.古怪的，异常的；特殊的，特有的 | |
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77
conceal
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| v.隐藏，隐瞒，隐蔽 | |
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78
concealment
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| n.隐藏, 掩盖，隐瞒 | |
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79
immediate
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| adj.立即的；直接的，最接近的；紧靠的 | |
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80
exigency
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| n.紧急；迫切需要 | |
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81
scruples
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| n.良心上的不安( scruple的名词复数 )；顾虑，顾忌v.感到于心不安，有顾忌( scruple的第三人称单数 ) | |
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82
premature
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| adj.比预期时间早的；不成熟的，仓促的 | |
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83
gem
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| n.宝石，珠宝；受爱戴的人 [同]jewel | |
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84
faltering
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| 犹豫的，支吾的，蹒跚的 | |
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85
delude
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| vt.欺骗；哄骗 | |
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86
approbation
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| n.称赞；认可 | |
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87
hesitation
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| n.犹豫，踌躇 | |
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attachment
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| n.附属物，附件；依恋；依附 | |
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89
susceptible
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| adj.过敏的，敏感的；易动感情的，易受感动的 | |
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90
misery
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| n.痛苦，苦恼，苦难；悲惨的境遇，贫苦 | |
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91
guilt
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| n.犯罪；内疚；过失，罪责 | |
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92
clandestine
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| adj.秘密的，暗中从事的 | |
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93
clandestinely
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| adv.秘密地，暗中地 | |
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94
bounty
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| n.慷慨的赠予物，奖金；慷慨，大方；施与 | |
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95
dictates
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| n.命令，规定，要求( dictate的名词复数 )v.大声讲或读( dictate的第三人称单数 )；口授；支配；摆布 | |
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96
virtuous
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| adj.有品德的，善良的，贞洁的，有效力的 | |
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amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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despoiled
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| v.掠夺，抢劫( despoil的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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admiration
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| n.钦佩，赞美，羡慕 | |
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100
infringe
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| v.违反，触犯，侵害 | |
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101
implicit
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| a.暗示的，含蓄的，不明晰的，绝对的 | |
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102
obedience
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| n.服从，顺从 | |
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103
tempted
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| v.怂恿（某人）干不正当的事；冒…的险（tempt的过去分词） | |
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104
suspense
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| n.（对可能发生的事）紧张感，担心，挂虑 | |
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105
altercation
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| n.争吵，争论 | |
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106
obstinate
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| adj.顽固的，倔强的，不易屈服的，较难治愈的 | |
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107
adherence
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| n.信奉，依附，坚持，固着 | |
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108
rigid
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| adj.严格的，死板的；刚硬的，僵硬的 | |
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trifling
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| adj.微不足道的；没什么价值的 | |
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professes
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| 声称( profess的第三人称单数 )； 宣称； 公开表明； 信奉 | |
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esteem
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| n.尊敬，尊重；vt.尊重，敬重；把…看作 | |
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112
inflexible
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| adj.不可改变的，不受影响的，不屈服的 | |
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113
refinement
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| n.文雅；高尚；精美；精制；精炼 | |
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114
attained
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| （通常经过努力）实现( attain的过去式和过去分词 )； 达到； 获得； 达到（某年龄、水平、状况） | |
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115
resentment
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| n.怨愤，忿恨 | |
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116
concord
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| n.和谐；协调 | |
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117
rapture
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| n.狂喜；全神贯注；着迷；v.使狂喜 | |
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118
scrupulous
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| adj.审慎的，小心翼翼的，完全的，纯粹的 | |
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119
tarnished
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| （通常指金属）（使）失去光泽，（使）变灰暗( tarnish的过去式和过去分词 )； 玷污，败坏 | |
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120
deluded
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| v.欺骗，哄骗( delude的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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121
parental
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| adj.父母的；父的；母的 | |
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122
expedient
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| adj.有用的，有利的；n.紧急的办法，权宜之计 | |
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123
expunge
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| v.除去，删掉 | |
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124
retirement
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| n.退休，退职 | |
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125
doomed
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| 命定的 | |
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126
trickled
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| v.滴( trickle的过去式和过去分词 )；淌；使)慢慢走；缓慢移动 | |
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127
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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128
pang
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| n.剧痛，悲痛，苦闷 | |
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129
anguish
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| n.(尤指心灵上的)极度痛苦，烦恼 | |
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130
bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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131
remains
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| n.剩余物，残留物；遗体，遗迹 | |
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132
accomplished
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| adj.有才艺的；有造诣的；达到了的 | |
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133
relinquish
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| v.放弃，撤回，让与，放手 | |
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134
delightful
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| adj.令人高兴的，使人快乐的 | |
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135
exalted
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| adj.(地位等)高的，崇高的；尊贵的，高尚的 | |
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136
entreat
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| v.恳求，恳请 | |
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137
bequest
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| n.遗赠；遗产，遗物 | |
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138
generosity
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| n.大度，慷慨，慷慨的行为 | |
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139
disposition
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| n.性情，性格；意向，倾向；排列，部署 | |
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140
dispersed
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| adj. 被驱散的, 被分散的, 散布的 | |
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141
contrived
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| adj.不自然的，做作的；虚构的 | |
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142
retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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143
affluent
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| adj.富裕的，富有的，丰富的，富饶的 | |
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144
sequestered
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| adj.扣押的；隐退的；幽静的；偏僻的v.使隔绝，使隔离( sequester的过去式和过去分词 )；扣押 | |
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145
awakened
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| v.（使）醒( awaken的过去式和过去分词 )；（使）觉醒；弄醒；（使）意识到 | |
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146
prattling
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| v.（小孩般）天真无邪地说话( prattle的现在分词 )；发出连续而无意义的声音；闲扯；东拉西扯 | |
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147
literally
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| adv.照字面意义，逐字地；确实 | |
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148
strew
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| vt.撒；使散落；撒在…上，散布于 | |
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149
proceeding
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| n.行动，进行，(pl.)会议录，学报 | |
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150
alteration
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| n.变更，改变；蚀变 | |
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151
alterations
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| n.改动( alteration的名词复数 )；更改；变化；改变 | |
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152
irony
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| n.反语，冷嘲；具有讽刺意味的事，嘲弄 | |
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153
animated
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| adj.生气勃勃的，活跃的，愉快的 | |
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154
languor
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| n.无精力，倦怠 | |
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155
sanguine
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| adj.充满希望的，乐观的，血红色的 | |
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156
pointed
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| adj.尖的，直截了当的 | |
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157
dreaded
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| adj.令人畏惧的；害怕的v.害怕，恐惧，担心( dread的过去式和过去分词) | |
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158
alleviate
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| v.减轻，缓和，缓解(痛苦等) | |
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159
recollected
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| adj.冷静的；镇定的；被回忆起的；沉思默想的v.记起，想起( recollect的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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160
lodged
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| v.存放( lodge的过去式和过去分词 )；暂住；埋入；（权利、权威等）归属 | |
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161
secrete
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| vt.分泌；隐匿，使隐秘 | |
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162
bribed
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| v.贿赂( bribe的过去式和过去分词 )；向（某人）行贿，贿赂 | |
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163
abhorred
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| v.憎恶( abhor的过去式和过去分词 )；（厌恶地）回避；拒绝；淘汰 | |
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164
infamous
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| adj.声名狼藉的，臭名昭著的，邪恶的 | |
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165
exclamation
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| n.感叹号，惊呼，惊叹词 | |
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166
vexed
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| adj.争论不休的；（指问题等）棘手的；争论不休的问题；烦恼的v.使烦恼( vex的过去式和过去分词 )；使苦恼；使生气；详细讨论 | |
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167
concealed
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| a.隐藏的，隐蔽的 | |
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168
housekeeper
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| n.管理家务的主妇，女管家 | |
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169
malicious
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| adj.有恶意的，心怀恶意的 | |
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170
lodger
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| n.寄宿人，房客 | |
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171
propriety
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| n.正当行为；正当；适当 | |
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172
malice
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| n.恶意，怨恨，蓄意；[律]预谋 | |
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173
avarice
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| n.贪婪；贪心 | |
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174
veracity
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| n.诚实 | |
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175
devoid
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| adj.全无的，缺乏的 | |
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176
counteracted
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| 对抗，抵消( counteract的过去式 ) | |
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177
alleged
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| a.被指控的，嫌疑的 | |
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178
exultation
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| n.狂喜，得意 | |
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179
prospect
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| n.前景，前途；景色，视野 | |
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180
bosoms
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| 胸部( bosom的名词复数 )； 胸怀； 女衣胸部（或胸襟）； 和爱护自己的人在一起的情形 | |
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181
impure
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| adj.不纯净的，不洁的；不道德的，下流的 | |
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182
distress
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| n.苦恼，痛苦，不舒适；不幸；vt.使悲痛 | |
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183
overthrown
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| adj. 打翻的，推倒的，倾覆的 动词overthrow的过去分词 | |
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184
consultation
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| n.咨询；商量；商议；会议 | |
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185
abode
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| n.住处，住所 | |
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186
circumspection
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| n.细心，慎重 | |
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187
acquiescence
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| n.默许；顺从 | |
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188
lodgings
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| n. 出租的房舍, 寄宿舍 | |
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189
mortification
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| n.耻辱，屈辱 | |
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190
recapitulated
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| v.总结，扼要重述( recapitulate的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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191
entirely
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| ad.全部地，完整地；完全地，彻底地 | |
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192
solely
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| adv.仅仅，唯一地 | |
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193
simplicity
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| n.简单，简易；朴素；直率，单纯 | |
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194
feigned
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| a.假装的，不真诚的 | |
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195
humility
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| n.谦逊，谦恭 | |
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196
appellation
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| n.名称，称呼 | |
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197
relinquishing
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| 交出，让给( relinquish的现在分词 )； 放弃 | |
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198
refreshments
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| n.点心,便餐;(会议后的)简单茶点招 待 | |
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199
saluted
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| v.欢迎，致敬( salute的过去式和过去分词 )；赞扬，赞颂 | |
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200
recoiled
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| v.畏缩( recoil的过去式和过去分词 )；退缩；报应；返回 | |
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201
darted
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| v.投掷，投射( dart的过去式和过去分词 )；向前冲，飞奔 | |
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202
disorder
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| n.紊乱，混乱；骚动，骚乱；疾病，失调 | |
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203
expressive
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| adj.表现的，表达…的，富于表情的 | |
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204
besought
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| v.恳求，乞求（某事物）( beseech的过去式和过去分词 )；(beseech的过去式与过去分词) | |
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205
procure
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| vt.获得，取得，促成；vi.拉皮条 | |
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206
conveyance
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| n.(不动产等的)转让，让与；转让证书；传送；运送；表达；（正）运输工具 | |
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207
contagious
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| adj.传染性的，有感染力的 | |
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208
repulse
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| n.击退，拒绝；vt.逐退，击退，拒绝 | |
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209
forsook
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| forsake的过去式 | |
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210
inquiries
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| n.调查( inquiry的名词复数 )；疑问；探究；打听 | |
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211
soothed
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| v.安慰( soothe的过去式和过去分词 )；抚慰；使舒服；减轻痛苦 | |
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212
soothe
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| v.安慰；使平静；使减轻；缓和；奉承 | |
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213
averted
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| 防止，避免( avert的过去式和过去分词 )； 转移 | |
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214
guardian
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| n.监护人；守卫者，保护者 | |
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215
soften
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| v.(使)变柔软；(使)变柔和 | |
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216
procured
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| v.（努力）取得， （设法）获得( procure的过去式和过去分词 )；拉皮条 | |
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217
erased
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| v.擦掉( erase的过去式和过去分词 )；抹去；清除 | |
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218
presages
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| v.预示，预兆( presage的第三人称单数 ) | |
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219
illicit
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| adj.非法的，禁止的，不正当的 | |
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220
stratagems
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| n.诡计，计谋( stratagem的名词复数 )；花招 | |
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221
lessened
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| 减少的，减弱的 | |
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222
abortive
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| adj.不成功的，发育不全的 | |
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223
musing
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| n. 沉思，冥想 adj. 沉思的, 冥想的 动词muse的现在分词形式 | |
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224
tenant
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| n.承租人；房客；佃户；v.租借，租用 | |
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225
agitated
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| adj.被鼓动的，不安的 | |
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226
lurked
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| vi.潜伏，埋伏（lurk的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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227
passionately
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| ad.热烈地，激烈地 | |
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228
extorting
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| v.敲诈( extort的现在分词 )；曲解 | |
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229
confession
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| n.自白，供认，承认 | |
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230
impatience
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| n.不耐烦，急躁 | |
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231
tranquillity
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| n. 平静, 安静 | |
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232
perused
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| v.读（某篇文字）( peruse的过去式和过去分词 )；（尤指）细阅；审阅；匆匆读或心不在焉地浏览（某篇文字） | |
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233
detested
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| v.憎恶，嫌恶，痛恨( detest的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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234
seducing
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| 诱奸( seduce的现在分词 )； 勾引； 诱使堕落； 使入迷 | |
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235
extenuation
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| n.减轻罪孽的借口；酌情减轻；细 | |
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236
alas
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| int.唉(表示悲伤、忧愁、恐惧等) | |
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237
melancholy
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| n.忧郁，愁思；adj.令人感伤（沮丧）的，忧郁的 | |
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238
behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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239
blessings
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| n.（上帝的）祝福( blessing的名词复数 )；好事；福分；因祸得福 | |
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240
specious
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| adj.似是而非的；adv.似是而非地 | |
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241
conceals
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| v.隐藏，隐瞒，遮住( conceal的第三人称单数 ) | |
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242
aspires
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| v.渴望，追求( aspire的第三人称单数 ) | |
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243
fervency
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| n.热情的；强烈的；热烈 | |
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eyelids
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| n.眼睑( eyelid的名词复数 )；眼睛也不眨一下；不露声色；面不改色 | |
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conjecture
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| n./v.推测，猜测 | |
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246
throbbed
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| 抽痛( throb的过去式和过去分词 )； （心脏、脉搏等）跳动 | |
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accomplishment
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| n.完成，成就，（pl.）造诣，技能 | |
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stimulated
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| a.刺激的 | |
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249
reposed
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| v.将（手臂等）靠在某人（某物）上( repose的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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credulous
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| adj.轻信的，易信的 | |
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imputation
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| n.归罪，责难 | |
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252
contriving
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| （不顾困难地）促成某事( contrive的现在分词 )； 巧妙地策划，精巧地制造（如机器）； 设法做到 | |
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destined
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| adj.命中注定的；(for)以…为目的地的 | |
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254
snare
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| n.陷阱，诱惑，圈套；（去除息肉或者肿瘤的）勒除器；响弦，小军鼓；vt.以陷阱捕获，诱惑 | |
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vile
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| adj.卑鄙的，可耻的，邪恶的；坏透的 | |
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intimacy
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| n.熟悉，亲密，密切关系，亲昵的言行 | |
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repented
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| 对（自己的所为）感到懊悔或忏悔( repent的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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recording
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| n.录音，记录 | |
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obliterate
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| v.擦去，涂抹，去掉...痕迹，消失，除去 | |
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