The Longest and the Last.
The nature of this visit had softened1 every heart, and saddened every countenance2; and they walked in solemn silence to the other side of the church-yard, in order to regain3 their carriages; when, at the turning of the stile, they saw a young woman, in wretched attire5, running out of a poor habitation, wringing6 her hands in all the agony of despair. Notwithstanding the distraction8 in her countenance, and the meanness of her apparel, she discovered a regularity9 of features, and a delicacy10 of air, which did not at all correspond with the misery11 of her equipage. These exhibitions of extreme distress12 soon attracted the notice and compassion13 of our company, and Melvil’s beauteous help-mate, accosting14 this forlorn damsel with a pity-breathing aspect, asked the cause of her disorder15.
“Alas! dear lady,” cried the other, with all the emphasis of woe16, “an unhappy gentleman now breathes his last within this inhospitable hovel, amidst such excess of misery as would melt the most flinty bosom17. What then must I feel, who am connected with him by the strongest ties of love and conjugal18 affection?” “Who is the unfortunate object?” said the physician. “He was once well known in the gay world,” replied the young woman; “his name is Fathom19.” Every individual of the company started at mention of that detested20 name. Serafina began to tremble with emotion; and Renaldo, after a short pause, declared he would go in, not with a view to exult21 over his misery, but in order to contemplate22 the catastrophe23 of such a wicked life, that the moral might be the more deeply engraved24 on his remembrance. The young Countess, whose tender heart could not bear the shock of such a spectacle, retired26 to the coach with Madam Clement27 and the Jew, while Renaldo, accompanied by the rest, entered a dismal28 apartment, altogether void of furniture and convenience, where they beheld29 the wretched hero of these memoirs30 stretched almost naked upon straw, insensible, convulsed, and seemingly in the grasp of death. He was worn to the bone either by famine or distemper; his face was overshadowed with hair and filth31; his eyes were sunk, glazed32, and distorted; his nostrils33 dilated34; his lips covered with a black slough35; and his complexion36 faded into a pale clay-colour, tending to a yellow hue37. In a word, the extremity38 of indigence39, squalor, and distress could not be more feelingly represented.
While Melvil perused40 this melancholy41 lesson, and groaning42, cried, “Behold44 the fate of man!” he perceived a letter in the right hand of the unfortunate Fathom, which lay fast clenched45 across his breast. Curious to know the contents of this paper, which the young woman said he had kept in that position for several days, he drew nearer the wretched couch, and was not a little surprised to see it addressed to the Right Honourable46 Renaldo Count de Melvil, to the care of Mr. Joshua Manesseh, merchant in London. When he attempted to disengage this billet from the author’s hand, the sorrowing female fell upon her knees, entreating47 him to desist, and telling him, she had promised, upon oath, to communicate the contents to no person upon earth, but to carry the letter, upon her husband’s decease, to the gentleman to whose care it was directed.
Renaldo assured her, upon his honour, that he was the very Renaldo Count de Melvil, for whom it was intended; and the young creature was so much confounded at this information, that, before she could recollect49 herself, Melvil had opened the billet, and read these words: “If this paper should fall into the hands of the noble Renaldo, he will understand, that Fathom was the most execrable traitor50 that ever imposed upon unsuspecting benevolence51, or attempted to betray a generous benefactor52. His whole life was a series of fraud, perfidy53, and the most abominable54 ingratitude55. But, of all the crimes that lay heavy upon his soul, his being accessory to the death of the incomparable Serafina, whose father he had also robbed, was that for which he despaired of Heaven’s forgiveness, notwithstanding the dreadful compunction and remorse57 which have long preyed58 upon his heart, together with the incredible misery and deplorable death which by this time he hath undergone. Though these sufferings and sorrows cannot atone59 for his enormous guilt60, perhaps they will excite the compassion of the humane61 Count de Melvil; at least, this confession62, which my conscience dictates63 under all the terrors of death and futurity, may be a warning for him to avoid henceforth a smiling villain65, like the execrable Fathom, upon whose miserable66 soul Almighty67 God have mercy.”
Renaldo was deeply affected68 with the contents of this scroll69, which denoted such horror and despair. He saw there could be no dissimulation70 or sinister71 design in this profession of penitence73. He beheld the condition of the writer, which put all his humane passions in commotion75; so that he remembered nothing of Fathom but his present distress. He could scarce maintain those indications which might have been justly deemed the effect of weakness and infirmity; and having desired the physician and clergyman to contribute their assistance for the benefit of that wretch4’s soul and body, he ran to the coach, and communicated the letter to the ladies; at the same time drawing a picture of the object he had seen, which brought tears into the eyes of the gentle Serafina, who earnestly entreated76 her lord to use his endeavours for the relief and recovery of the unhappy man, that he might, if possible, live to enjoy the benefit of mature repentance77, and not die in that dreadful despair which he manifested in the letter.
Renaldo, returning to the house, found the pious78 clergyman reading prayers with great fervency79, while Don Diego stood with his right hand upon his breast, looking steadfastly80 upon the agonising Fathom, and the young woman kneeled, with her streaming eyes lifted up to heaven, in an ecstasy81 of grief and devotion. The physician had run to an apothecary82’s shop in the neighbourhood, from whence he soon returned with an assistant, who applied83 a large blister84 to the back of the miserable patient, while the female, by the doctor’s direction, moistened his mouth with a cordial which he had prescribed.
These charitable steps being taken, Count de Melvil entreated the apothecary’s servant to procure85 a tent-bed for the accommodation of the sick person with all imaginable despatch86; and, in less than an hour, one was actually pitched, and Fathom lifted into it, after he had been shifted, and in some measure purified from the dregs of his indigence. During this transaction the ladies were conducted to a tavern87 not far off, where dinner was bespoke88, that they might be at hand to see the effect of their charity, which was not confined to what we have already described, but extended so far, that, in a little time, the apartment was comfortably furnished, and the young creature provided with change of apparel, and money to procure the necessaries of subsistence.
Notwithstanding all their care, the wretched Fathom still remained insensible, and the doctor pronounced a very unfavourable prognostic, while he ordered a pair of additional vesicatories to be laid upon his arms, and other proper medicines to be administered. After dinner, the ladies ventured to visit the place, and when Serafina crossed the threshold, the weeping female fell at her feet, and, kissing her robe, exclaimed, “Sure you are an angel from heaven.”
The alteration91 in her dress had made a very agreeable change in her appearance, so that the Countess could now look upon her without shuddering92 at her distress. And, as Fathom was not in a condition to be disturbed, she took this opportunity of inquiring by what steps that unfortunate wretch was conveyed from the prison, in which she knew he had been confined, to the place where he now lay in such extremity; and by what occurrence he had found a wife in such an abyss of misfortune. Here the other’s tears began to flow afresh. “I am ashamed,” said she, “to reveal my own folly93; yet I dare not refuse a satisfaction of this kind to a person who has laid me under such signal obligations.”
She then proceeded to relate her story, by which it appeared, she was no other than the fair and unhappy Elenor, whom the artful Fathom had debauched upon his first arrival in town, in the manner already described in these memoirs. “Heaven,” continued she, “was pleased to restore the use of my reason, which I had lost when I found myself abandoned by the Count; but, all my connexion with my own family being entirely94 cut off, and every door shut against a poor creature who could procure no recommendation, except the certificate signed by the physician of Bedlam95, which, instead of introducing me to service, was an insurmountable objection to my character, I found myself destitute97 of all means of subsisting98, unless I would condescend99 to live the infamous100 and wretched life of a courtezan, an expedient101 rendered palatable102 by the terrors of want, cooperating with the reflection of the irretrievable loss I had already sustained. I ask pardon for offending your chaste103 ears with this impure104 confession of my guilt, which, Heaven knows, I then did, and now do look upon with abhorrence105 and detestation. I had already forfeited106 my innocence107, and wanted resolution to encounter misery and death. Nevertheless, before I could determine to embrace the condition of a prostitute, I was one day accosted108 in the Park by an elderly gentleman who sat down by me upon a bench, and, taking notice of the despondence which was evident in my countenance, pressed me to make him acquainted with the nature of my misfortune. So much sympathy and good sense appeared in his deportment and conversation, that I gratified his request, and he, in return for my confidence, saved me from the most horrible part of my prospect109, by taking me into his protection, and reserving me for his own appetite. In this situation I lived a whole year, until I was deprived of my keeper by an apoplectic110 fit, and turned out of doors by his relations, who did not, however, strip me of the clothes and moveables which I owed to his bounty111. Far from being as yet reconciled to a vicious life, I resolved to renounce112 the paths of shame, and, converting my effects into ready money, hired a small shop, and furnished it with haberdashery ware113, intending to earn an honest livelihood114 by the sale of these commodities, together with the plain work in which I hoped to be employed so soon as my talents should be known. But this scheme did not answer my expectation. The goods spoiled upon my hands, and, as I was a stranger in the neighbourhood, nobody would intrust me with any other business. So that, notwithstanding the most parsimonious115 economy, I ran in debt to my landlord, who seized my effects; and an hosier, from whom I had received some parcels upon credit, took out a writ74 against me, by virtue116 of which I was arrested and imprisoned117 in the Marshalsea, where I found my first seducer118. Good Heaven! what did I feel at this unexpected meeting, overwhelmed as I was before with my own distress! I with a loud scream fainted away, and, when I recovered, found myself in the arms of Mr. Fathom, who wept over me with great affliction. All his prospects119 of gaiety had now vanished, and his heart was softened by his own misfortunes, to a feeling of another’s woe, as well as to a due sense of his own guilt. He expressed the deepest sorrow for having been the occasion of my ruin, endeavoured to comfort me with a promise of assistance, and indeed, by practising medicine among the prisoners, made shift to keep us both from starving. But surely no sinner underwent such severe remorse as that which he suffered during his imprisonment120. From the day of our meeting, I never once saw him smile; a melancholy cloud continually overhung his countenance. He numbered the minutes by his groans121, he used to start with horror from his sleep, and, striking his breast, would exclaim, ‘O Elenor! I am the worst of villains122!’ Sometimes he seemed disordered in his brain, and raved25 about Renaldo and Monimia. In a word, his mind was in a dreadful situation, and all his agonies were communicated to me, whom by this time he had married, in order to make some atonement for my wrongs. Wretched as he then was, I remembered the accomplished123 youth who had captivated my virgin124 heart, the old impressions still remained, I saw his penitence, pitied his misfortune, and his wife being dead, consented to join his fate, the ceremony having been performed by a fellow-prisoner, who was in orders. Though his hard-hearted creditor125 had no other chance of being paid, than that of setting him at liberty, he lent a deaf ear to all our supplications; and this cruelty conspiring126 with the anguish127 of my husband’s own reflection, affected his health and spirits to such a degree, that he could no longer earn the miserable pittance128 which had hitherto supported our lives. Then our calamities129 began to multiply. Indigence and famine stared us in the face; and it was with the utmost difficulty that we resisted their attacks, by selling or pledging our wearing apparel, until we were left almost quite naked, when we found ourselves discharged by an act passed for the relief of insolvent130 debtors131. This charitable law, which was intended for a consolation132 to the wretched, proved to us the most severe disaster; for we were turned out into the streets, utterly133 destitute of food, raiment, and lodging134, at a time when Mr. Fathom was so weakened by his distemper, that he could not stand alone. I supported him from door to door, imploring135 the compassion of charitable Christians136, and was at length permitted to shelter him in this miserable place, where his disease gaining ground, he lay three days in that deplorable condition, from which he hath now been rescued, though I fear too late, by your humanity and benevolence.”
She shed a flood of tears at the conclusion of this mournful tale, which did not fail to affect the whole audience, especially Serafina, who assured her, that, whatever should happen to her husband, she might depend upon finding favour and protection, provided her conduct should correspond with her professions. While this grateful creature kissed the hand of her kind benefactress, Fathom uttered a groan43, began to stir in the bed, and with a languid voice called upon Elenor, who, instantly withdrawing the curtain, presented the whole company to his view. He had now retrieved137 the use of his perception by the operation of the blisters138, which began to torture him severely139; he looked around him with amazement140 and affright, and distinguishing the three persons against whom the chief arrows of his fraud and treachery had been levelled, he concluded that he was now arrived at the land of departed souls, and that the shades of those whom he had so grievously injured were come to see him tormented141 according to his demerits.
Fraught142 with this notion, which was confirmed by the bodily pain which he felt, and the appearance of the clergyman and Joshua, whom he mistook for the ministers of vengeance143, he cried in a tone replete144 with horror, “Is there no mercy then for penitence? Is there no pity due to the miseries145 I suffered upon earth? Save me, O bountiful Heaven! from the terrors of everlasting146 woe; hide me from these dreadful executioners, whose looks are torture. Forgive me, generous Castilian. O Renaldo! thou hadst once a tender heart. I dare not lift my eyes to Serafina! that pattern of human excellence147, who fell a victim to my atrocious guilt; yet her aspect is all mildness and compassion. Hah! are not these the drops of pity? Yes, they are the tears of mercy. They fall like refreshing148 showers upon my drooping149 soul! Ah, murdered innocence! wilt150 thou not intercede151 for thy betrayer at the throne of grace!”
Here he was interrupted by Melvil, who with a grave and solemn air pronounced, “Great hath been thy guilt, unhappy Ferdinand, and great have been thy sufferings. Yet we come not to insult, but to alleviate152 thy distress. Providence153 hath kindly154 defeated thy dire48 intentions, which we therefore now forgive and transmit to oblivion, whether it be thy lot to yield up thy spirit immediately, or to survive the dangerous malady156 with which thou art at present overwhelmed. Suffer not thyself to despair; for the mercy of Heaven is infinite; and submit to the directions of this worthy157 gentleman, who will employ his skill for thy recovery, while we shall take care to furnish thee with necessary attendance. As too much speaking may be prejudicial to thy health, I dispense158 with thy reply, and exhort159 thee to compose thyself to rest.” So saying, he drew the curtain, and the company retired, leaving Fathom entranced with wonder.
The next step which Renaldo took for the benefit of this wretched penitent160, was to send for the apothecary, with whom he left a sum of money to be expended161 for the convenience of Fathom and his wife; then he laid injunctions upon the physician to repeat his visits; and that gentleman, together with the clergyman and Joshua, taking leave of the others till next day, the Count set out with the ladies and his father-in-law to the house where they had lodged162 the preceding night.
The reader may well imagine the conversation of the evening turned wholly upon the strange occurrence of the day, which seemed to have been concerted by supernatural prescience, in order to satisfy the vengeance, and afford matter of triumph to the generosity163 of those who had been so grievously injured by the guilty Fathom. Though not one of them would say that such a miscreant164 ought to live, yet all concurred165 in approving the offices of humanity which had been performed, and even endeavoured to find specious166 pretext167 for vindicating168 their compassion. Don Diego said, it would ill become a transgressor169 like him to withhold170 his forgiveness from a sinner who had wronged him. Madam Clement appealed to the approbation171 of Heaven, which had undoubtedly172 directed them that way, for the purpose they had fulfilled. Serafina observed, that the crimes of the delinquent173 were obliterated174 by his sorrow, misery, and repentance. Renaldo honestly owned, that, exclusive of other reasons, he could not deny himself the luxurious175 enjoyment176 of communicating happiness to his fellow-creatures in distress; and each fervently178 prayed, that their charity might not be disappointed by the death of the object.
While they amused themselves in these discussions, Fathom, after having lain some hours silent, in consequence of Renaldo’s advice, could no longer suppress the astonishment179 of his mind, but, addressing himself to his wife, “O Elenor!” said he, “my delirium180 is now past; though I still remember the phantasies of my distempered brain. Among other reveries, my imagination was regaled with a vision so perfect and distinct, as to emulate181 truth and reality. Methought Count de Melvil, Don Diego de Zelos, and the divine Serafina, the very persons who are now crying before the throne of Heaven for vengeance against the guilty Fathom, stood by my bedside, with looks of pity and forgiveness; and that Renaldo spoke89 peace to my despairing soul. I heard the words distinctly. I retain them in my memory. I saw the tears trickle182 from Serafina’s eyes. I heard her father utter a compassionate183 sigh; and should actually believe that they were personally present, had not I long ago seen with my own eyes the funeral procession of that young lady, whose wrongs God pardon; and were I not convinced that such a meeting could not be effected without the immediate155 and miraculous184 interposition of Heaven. Yet everything I now see corresponds with the words of Renaldo, which still sound in my ears. When my perception forsook185 me, I lay in the most abject186 misery, among straw; and thou, poor injured innocence, wast naked and forlorn. Now, I find myself reposed187 in a warm, easy, comfortable bed. I see around me the marks of human charity and care, and the favourable90 change in thy appearance glads my poor dejected heart. Say, whence this happy alteration? Do I really awake from that dream of misery in which we have continued so long? or do I still utter the extravagant188 ravings of a distempered brain?”
Elenor was afraid of imparting at once all the particulars of the happy change he had undergone, lest they might leave a dangerous impression upon his fancy, which was not yet duly composed. She contented189 herself, therefore, with telling him, that he had been obliged to the humanity of a gentleman and lady, who chanced to pass that way by accident, and who, understanding his deplorable case, had furnished him with the conveniences which he now enjoyed. She then presented to him what the doctor had directed her to administer, and, admonishing190 him to commit his head to the pillow, he was favoured with a breathing sweat, fell fast asleep, and in a few hours waked again altogether cool and undisturbed.
It was upon this occasion that his wife explained the circumstances of that visit which had redeemed191 him from extremity of wretchedness and the jaws192 of death; upon which he started up, and throwing himself upon his knees, exclaimed, “All-gracious Power! this was the work of thy own bounteous193 hand; the voice of my sorrow and repentance hath been heard. Thou hast inspired my benefactors194 with more than mortal goodness in my behalf; how shall I praise thy name! how shall I requite195 their generosity! Oh, I am bankrupt to both! yet let me not perish until I shall have convinced them of my reformation, and seen them enjoying that felicity which ought to be reserved for such consummate196 virtue.”
Next day, in the forenoon, he was visited by the physician, whom he now recollected197 to have seen at the house of Madam Clement; and, after having thanked that gentleman for his humanity and care, he earnestly begged to know by what means Serafina had been preserved. When he was satisfied in this particular, and given to understand that she was now happy in the arms of Renaldo, “Blessed be God!” he cried, “for having defeated the villany of him who sought to part such lovers. Dear sir, will you add one circumstance to your charity, and bear to that happy couple, and the noble Don Diego, the respects and the remorse of a sincere penitent, whom their compassion hath raised to life? I have been such a traitor to them, that my words deserve no regard. I will not therefore use professions. I dare not hope to be admitted into their presence. I am indeed ashamed to see the light of the sun. How then could I bear the looks of that injured family? ah, no! let me hide myself in some obscure retreat, where I may work out my salvation198 with fear and trembling, and pray incessantly199 to Heaven for their prosperity.”
The physician promised to represent his contrition200 to the Count and his lady, and accordingly proceeded to their habitation, where he repeated these expressions, and pronounced his patient out of danger. So that their thoughts were now employed in concerting a scheme for his future subsistence, that he might not be exposed by indigence to a relapse in point of morals. Renaldo being still averse201 to any personal intercourse202 with such a wretch, until he should give some undoubted proofs of amendment203, and, as yet afraid of intrusting him with any office that required integrity, resolved, with the approbation of all present, to settle him in a cheap county in the north of England, where he and his wife could live comfortably on an annuity204 of sixty pounds, until his behaviour should entitle him to a better provision.
This resolution was just taken, when Joshua arrived with a gentleman whom he introduced to Don Diego as the secretary of the Spanish ambassador. After the first compliments, the stranger told the Castilian, that he waited upon him at the desire of his Excellency, who would have come in person, had he not been confined by the gout. Then he put into his hand a letter from the court of Madrid, written by a nobleman of Diego’s acquaintance, who informed him, that Don Manuel de Mendoza having made away with himself by poison, in order to avoid the disgrace of a legal conviction, his Catholic Majesty205 was now convinced of Don Diego’s innocence, and granted him leave to return and take possession of his honours and estate. This information was confirmed by the secretary, who assured him that the ambassador had orders to make him acquainted with this favourable decision of the King. The Castilian having first acquitted206 himself in the most polite terms to the secretary and the Jew, who, he said, had always been a messenger of glad tidings, communicated his happiness to the company; and this evening concluded the third day of their rejoicing.
Next morning Don Diego went to visit the ambassador, accompanied by Joshua and the secretary; while the physician, repairing to the habitation of Fathom, signified, by Renaldo’s direction, the resolution which had been taken in his behalf; and the patient no sooner heard his doom207, than, lifting up his hands, he cried, “I am unworthy of such tenderness and benevolence.” While Elenor shed a flood of tears in silence, unable to give utterance208 to her grateful thought; Melvil’s bounty having so far transcended209 her most sanguine210 hope.
The Spaniard having paid his devoirs to his Excellency, returned before dinner; and, in the afternoon, desiring a private conference with Serafina, they retired into another apartment, and he expressed himself to this effect: “You have contracted, my dear child, an habit of calling Madam Clement your mother, and doubtless, by her maternal211 tenderness and regard, she hath acquired a just title to the appellation212. Yet I own I would fain strengthen it by a legal claim. I no sooner retrieved my daughter than I gave her away to the most deserving youth that ever sighed with love.— I rejoice in the gift which secured your happiness. But I left myself in a solitary213 situation, which even the return of my good fortune cannot render easy and supportable. When I revisit the Castle of Zelos, every well-known object will recall the memory of my Antonia, and I shall want a companion to fill her place, and to sympathise with me in that sorrow which will be derived214 from my remembrance. Who is there so worthy to succeed your mother in the affection of Don Diego, as she who interests her love for Serafina, and resembles her so strongly in every virtue of the sex? Similar attractions will produce similar effects. My heart is already attached to that good lady; and, provided Serafina shall approve of my choice, I will lay myself and fortune at her feet.”
The fair Countess replied, with an enchanting215 smile, that, before this declaration, she had with pleasure perceived the progress which Madam Clement had made in his heart; and that she did not believe there was a person upon earth better qualified216 to repair the loss he had sustained; though she foresaw one obstacle to his happiness, which she was afraid would not be easily surmounted217. “You mean,” answered the Castilian, “the difference of religion, which I am resolved to remove by adopting the Protestant faith; though I am fully218 satisfied that real goodness is of no particular persuasion219, and that salvation cannot depend upon belief, over which the will has no influence. I invest you, therefore, with the charge of declaring my passion and proposal, and empower you to satisfy her scruples220 with regard to the religion which I now profess72, and which I shall not openly relinquish221, until I shall have secured, in this country, effects sufficient to screen me from the ill consequences of my King’s displeasure.”
Serafina undertook this office with pleasure, because she had reason to think his addresses would not be disagreeable to Madam Clement; and that same night made the Count acquainted with the nature of her commission. Nor was her expectation disappointed. The French lady, with that frankness which is peculiar222 to virtue and good breeding, confessed that Don Diego was not indifferent to her choice, and did not hesitate in receiving him upon the footing of a lover.— As we have already dwelt circumstantially on the passion of love, so as perhaps even to have tired our readers, we shall not repeat the dialogue that passed, when the Spaniard was indulged with an opportunity to explain his sentiments. Suffice it to observe, that the lady’s days of coquetry were now over, and that she was too wise to trifle with the time, which every moment became more and more precious. It was agreed then, that Don Diego should settle his affairs in Spain, and return to England, in order to espouse223 Madam Clement, with a view to fix his residence in this island, where Renaldo likewise proposed to enjoy the sweets of his fortune, provided he could draw hither his interests and connexions.
Meanwhile, having for some days enjoyed his bliss224 with all the fulness of rapture225 amidst this small but agreeable society, he shifted the scene, and conducted his dear partner to a ready-furnished house in town, which, together with an occasional equipage, his friend Joshua had hired for the accommodation of him and his father-in-law, who, during his stay in England, failed not to cultivate the mistress of his heart with the most punctual assiduity. Hitherto Serafina had been as a precious jewel locked up in a casket, which the owner alone had an opportunity to contemplate. But now the Count, who was proud of such a prize, resolved to let her shine forth64 to the admiration226 of the whole world. With this view he bespoke such ornaments227 as befitted her quality, and, while the mantua-makers were employed in her service, made a tour among his former acquaintance, and discharged the obligations under which he lay to some who had assisted him in his distress. He did not, however, introduce them to his charming Serafina; because not one of them had formerly228 treated her with that delicacy of regard which he thought her due; and some of them were much mortified229 at their neglect, when they saw what a dazzling figure she made in the beau monde.
She was visited by the Spanish and Imperial ambassadors, and divers230 other foreigners of distinction, to whom Melvil had letters of recommendation. But her first public appearance was in a box at the opera, accompanied by Madam Clement, the Count, and Don Diego. The entertainment was already begun, so that her entrance had the greater effect upon the audience, whose attention was soon detached from the performance, and riveted231 upon this amiable232 apparition233, which seemed to be some bright being of another world dropped from the clouds among them. Then did the spirit of curiosity play its part. A thousand whispers circulated; as many glasses were exalted234 to reconnoitre this box of foreigners; for such they concluded them to be from their appearance. Every male spectator acknowledged Serafina to be the paragon235 of beauty; and every female confessed, that Melvil was the model of a fine gentleman. The charms of the young Countess did not escape the eye and approbation of royalty236 itself; and when her rank was known, from the information of the ambassadors and other people of condition who were seen saluting237 her at a distance, that same evening a thousand bumpers238 were swallowed in honour of the Countess de Melvil. The fame of her beauty was immediately extended over this immense metropolis239, and different schemes were concerted for bringing her into life. These, however, she resisted with unwearied obstinacy240. Her happiness centred in Renaldo, and the cultivation241 of a few friends within the shade of domestic quiet. She did not even forget the concerns of the wretched Fathom and his faithful Elenor, who daily enjoyed fresh instances of her humanity and care. When his fever forsook him, he was supplied with nourishing food for the recovery of his health; and as soon as he found himself in a condition to travel, he gave notice to his benefactor, who desired Joshua to settle with him the manner in which he was to receive his allowance, and to pay the first half-year’s salary per advance.
This affair being adjusted, and the place of his retreat signified, the Jew told Elenor, that she might wait upon the Countess before their departure; and she did not fail to make use of this permission. After they had made the necessary preparations for their journey, and taken places in the York stage-coach, Mrs. Fathom, clothing herself in decent apparel, went to the house of Count Melvil, and was immediately admitted to the presence of Serafina, who received her with her usual complacency, enriched her with salutary advice, comforted her with the hope of better things, provided her conduct and that of her husband should henceforth be found irreproachable242; and, wishing her peace and happiness, presented her with a box of linen243, and twenty guineas in a purse. Such excessive goodness overpowered this sensible young woman to such a degree, that she stood before her in speechless awe244 and veneration245; and the Countess, in order to relieve her from the confusion under which she suffered, quitted the room, leaving her to the care of her woman. It was not long, however, before her gratitude56 broke out in loud exclamations246 and a violent passion of tears, which all her efforts could not, for a while, overcome. By this time the coach was brought up to the gate for the reception of Serafina, who took an airing every day at the same hour; when Renaldo, leading her to the vehicle, beheld a man plainly dressed standing7 within the court, with his head and body bent247 towards the earth, so that his countenance could not be perceived.
Melvil, who supposed him to be some unfortunate man come to implore248 his charity, turned towards him, and asked with a humane accent, if he wanted to speak with any person in the house? To this interrogation the stranger replied, without lifting up his head, “Overwhelmed as I am with Count Melvil’s generosity, together with a consciousness of my own unworthiness, it ill becomes a wretch like me to importune249 him for further favour; yet I could not bear the thought of withdrawing, perhaps for ever, from the presence of my benefactor, without soliciting250 his permission to see his face in mercy, to acknowledge my atrocious crimes, to hear my pardon confirmed by his voice, and that of his accomplished Countess, whom I dare not even at a distance behold; and to express my fervent177 wish for their prosperity.”
Melvil, whose heart was but too tender, could not hear this address without emotion. He recognised the companion of his infancy251 and youth; he remembered the happy scenes he had enjoyed with Fathom, whose voice had always such an effect upon his ear, as to excite the ideas of friendship and esteem252; and he was disturbed by this unexpected meeting, which also discomposed the beauteous Serafina. Renaldo having paused a little, “It is with pain,” said he, “I recollect anything to the prejudice of Fathom, whose future behaviour will, I hope, erase253 the memory of his offences, and justify254 what other steps I may take in his favour. Meanwhile, I heartily255 forgive what is past; and, in token of my sincerity256, present my hand;” which our adventurer bathed with his tears. The Countess, whose mind was in unison257 with her husband, repeated her assurances of pardon and protection; at which the penitent rejoiced in silence, while he raised his head and took a parting view of those charms which had formerly enslaved his heart.
Having thus obeyed the dictates of his duty and inclination258, he next morning embarked259 in the stage-coach, with his faithful Elenor, and in six days arrived at the place of his retreat, which he found extremely well adapted to the circumstances of his mind and fortune. For all his vice96 and ambition was now quite mortified within him, and his whole attention engrossed260 in atoning261 for his former crimes, by a sober and penitent life, by which alone he could deserve the uncommon262 generosity of his patrons.
While he thus accommodated himself to his new system, Renaldo received letters of congratulation from his sister, who with the Major had come to Brussels, in order to meet her brother and Serafina, according to his proposal. This intimation being communicated to Don Diego, he resolved to accompany them to Flanders, on his way to Spain. Preparations were made for their departure; the clergyman and physician were honoured with valuable marks of friendship and esteem from the Countess, Renaldo, and the Castilian, who were convoyed to Deal by Madam Clement, to whom, at parting, Don Diego presented a diamond ring, as a pledge of his inviolable love.
Here the travellers hired a vessel263 for Ostend, which they reached in a few hours; in two days more they arrived at Brussels, where Mrs. Farrel and her husband were struck with admiration at the surprising beauty and accomplishment264 of their sister-in-law, whom they caressed265 with equal tenderness and joy.— In a word, all parties were as happy as good fortune could make them; and Don Diego set out for Spain, after they had agreed to reside in the Low Countries till his return.
The End
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softened
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| （使）变软( soften的过去式和过去分词 )； 缓解打击； 缓和； 安慰 | |
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countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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regain
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| vt.重新获得，收复，恢复 | |
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wretch
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| n.可怜的人，不幸的人；卑鄙的人 | |
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attire
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| v.穿衣，装扮[同]array；n.衣着；盛装 | |
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wringing
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| 淋湿的，湿透的 | |
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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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distraction
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| n.精神涣散，精神不集中，消遣，娱乐 | |
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regularity
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| n.规律性，规则性；匀称，整齐 | |
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delicacy
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| n.精致，细微，微妙，精良；美味，佳肴 | |
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misery
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| n.痛苦，苦恼，苦难；悲惨的境遇，贫苦 | |
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distress
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| n.苦恼，痛苦，不舒适；不幸；vt.使悲痛 | |
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compassion
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| n.同情，怜悯 | |
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accosting
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| v.走过去跟…讲话( accost的现在分词 )；跟…搭讪；（乞丐等）上前向…乞讨；（妓女等）勾搭 | |
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disorder
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| n.紊乱，混乱；骚动，骚乱；疾病，失调 | |
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woe
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| n.悲哀，苦痛，不幸，困难；int.用来表达悲伤或惊慌 | |
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bosom
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| n.胸，胸部；胸怀；内心；adj.亲密的 | |
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conjugal
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| adj.婚姻的，婚姻性的 | |
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fathom
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| v.领悟，彻底了解 | |
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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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exult
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| v.狂喜，欢腾；欢欣鼓舞 | |
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contemplate
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| vt.盘算，计议；周密考虑；注视，凝视 | |
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catastrophe
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| n.大灾难，大祸 | |
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engraved
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| v.在（硬物）上雕刻（字，画等）( engrave的过去式和过去分词 )；将某事物深深印在（记忆或头脑中） | |
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25
raved
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| v.胡言乱语( rave的过去式和过去分词 )；愤怒地说；咆哮；痴心地说 | |
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retired
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| adj.隐退的，退休的，退役的 | |
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clement
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| adj.仁慈的；温和的 | |
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dismal
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| adj.阴沉的，凄凉的，令人忧郁的，差劲的 | |
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29
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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30
memoirs
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| n.回忆录；回忆录传( mem,自oir的名词复数) | |
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31
filth
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| n.肮脏，污物，污秽；淫猥 | |
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32
glazed
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| adj.光滑的，像玻璃的；上过釉的；呆滞无神的v.装玻璃( glaze的过去式)；上釉于，上光；（目光）变得呆滞无神 | |
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33
nostrils
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| 鼻孔( nostril的名词复数 ) | |
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34
dilated
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| adj.加宽的，扩大的v.（使某物）扩大，膨胀，张大( dilate的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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35
slough
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| v.蜕皮，脱落，抛弃 | |
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36
complexion
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| n.肤色；情况，局面；气质，性格 | |
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37
hue
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| n.色度；色调；样子 | |
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38
extremity
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| n.末端，尽头；尽力；终极；极度 | |
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39
indigence
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| n.贫穷 | |
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40
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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41
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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42
groaning
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| adj. 呜咽的, 呻吟的 动词groan的现在分词形式 | |
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43
groan
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| vi./n.呻吟，抱怨；(发出)呻吟般的声音 | |
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44
behold
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| v.看，注视，看到 | |
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45
clenched
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| v.紧握，抓紧，咬紧( clench的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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46
honourable
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| adj.可敬的；荣誉的，光荣的 | |
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47
entreating
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| 恳求，乞求( entreat的现在分词 ) | |
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48
dire
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| adj.可怕的，悲惨的，阴惨的，极端的 | |
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49
recollect
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| v.回忆，想起，记起，忆起，记得 | |
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50
traitor
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| n.叛徒，卖国贼 | |
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51
benevolence
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| n.慈悲，捐助 | |
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52
benefactor
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| n. 恩人，行善的人，捐助人 | |
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53
perfidy
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| n.背信弃义，不忠贞 | |
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54
abominable
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| adj.可厌的，令人憎恶的 | |
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55
ingratitude
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| n.忘恩负义 | |
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56
gratitude
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| adj.感激，感谢 | |
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57
remorse
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| n.痛恨，悔恨，自责 | |
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58
preyed
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| v.掠食( prey的过去式和过去分词 )；掠食；折磨；（人）靠欺诈为生 | |
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59
atone
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| v.赎罪，补偿 | |
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60
guilt
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| n.犯罪；内疚；过失，罪责 | |
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61
humane
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| adj.人道的，富有同情心的 | |
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62
confession
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| n.自白，供认，承认 | |
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63
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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64
forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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65
villain
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| n.反派演员，反面人物；恶棍；问题的起因 | |
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66
miserable
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| adj.悲惨的，痛苦的；可怜的，糟糕的 | |
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67
almighty
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| adj.全能的，万能的；很大的，很强的 | |
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68
affected
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| adj.不自然的，假装的 | |
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69
scroll
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| n.卷轴，纸卷；(石刻上的)漩涡 | |
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70
dissimulation
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| n.掩饰，虚伪，装糊涂 | |
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71
sinister
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| adj.不吉利的，凶恶的，左边的 | |
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72
profess
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| v.声称，冒称，以...为业，正式接受入教，表明信仰 | |
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73
penitence
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| n.忏悔，赎罪；悔过 | |
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74
writ
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| n.命令状，书面命令 | |
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75
commotion
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| n.骚动，动乱 | |
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76
entreated
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| 恳求，乞求( entreat的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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77
repentance
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| n.懊悔 | |
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78
pious
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| adj.虔诚的；道貌岸然的 | |
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79
fervency
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| n.热情的；强烈的；热烈 | |
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80
steadfastly
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| adv.踏实地，不变地；岿然；坚定不渝 | |
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81
ecstasy
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| n.狂喜，心醉神怡，入迷 | |
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82
apothecary
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| n.药剂师 | |
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83
applied
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| adj.应用的；v.应用，适用 | |
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84
blister
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| n.水疱；(油漆等的)气泡；v.(使)起泡 | |
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85
procure
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| vt.获得，取得，促成；vi.拉皮条 | |
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86
despatch
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| n./v.(dispatch)派遣；发送；n.急件；新闻报道 | |
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87
tavern
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| n.小旅馆，客栈；小酒店 | |
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88
bespoke
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| adj.（产品）订做的；专做订货的v.预定( bespeak的过去式 )；订（货）；证明；预先请求 | |
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89
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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favourable
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| adj.赞成的，称赞的，有利的，良好的，顺利的 | |
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91
alteration
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| n.变更，改变；蚀变 | |
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92
shuddering
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| v.战栗( shudder的现在分词 )；发抖；（机器、车辆等）突然震动；颤动 | |
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93
folly
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| n.愚笨，愚蠢，蠢事，蠢行，傻话 | |
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94
entirely
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| ad.全部地，完整地；完全地，彻底地 | |
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95
bedlam
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| n.混乱，骚乱；疯人院 | |
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96
vice
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| n.坏事；恶习；[pl.]台钳，老虎钳；adj.副的 | |
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97
destitute
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| adj.缺乏的；穷困的 | |
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98
subsisting
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| v.（靠很少的钱或食物）维持生活，生存下去( subsist的现在分词 ) | |
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99
condescend
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| v.俯就，屈尊；堕落，丢丑 | |
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100
infamous
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| adj.声名狼藉的，臭名昭著的，邪恶的 | |
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101
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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102
palatable
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| adj.可口的，美味的；惬意的 | |
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103
chaste
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| adj.贞洁的；有道德的；善良的；简朴的 | |
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104
impure
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| adj.不纯净的，不洁的；不道德的，下流的 | |
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105
abhorrence
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| n.憎恶；可憎恶的事 | |
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106
forfeited
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| （因违反协议、犯规、受罚等）丧失，失去( forfeit的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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107
innocence
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| n.无罪；天真；无害 | |
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108
accosted
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| v.走过去跟…讲话( accost的过去式和过去分词 )；跟…搭讪；（乞丐等）上前向…乞讨；（妓女等）勾搭 | |
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109
prospect
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| n.前景，前途；景色，视野 | |
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110
apoplectic
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| adj.中风的；愤怒的；n.中风患者 | |
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111
bounty
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| n.慷慨的赠予物，奖金；慷慨，大方；施与 | |
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112
renounce
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| v.放弃；拒绝承认，宣布与…断绝关系 | |
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113
ware
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| n.(常用复数)商品，货物 | |
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114
livelihood
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| n.生计，谋生之道 | |
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115
parsimonious
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| adj.吝啬的，质量低劣的 | |
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116
virtue
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| n.德行，美德；贞操；优点；功效，效力 | |
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117
imprisoned
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| 下狱，监禁( imprison的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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118
seducer
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| n.诱惑者,骗子,玩弄女性的人 | |
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119
prospects
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| n.希望，前途(恒为复数) | |
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120
imprisonment
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| n.关押，监禁，坐牢 | |
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121
groans
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| n.呻吟，叹息( groan的名词复数 )；呻吟般的声音v.呻吟( groan的第三人称单数 )；发牢骚；抱怨；受苦 | |
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122
villains
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| n.恶棍( villain的名词复数 )；罪犯；（小说、戏剧等中的）反面人物；淘气鬼 | |
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123
accomplished
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| adj.有才艺的；有造诣的；达到了的 | |
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124
virgin
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| n.处女，未婚女子；adj.未经使用的；未经开发的 | |
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125
creditor
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| n.债仅人，债主，贷方 | |
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126
conspiring
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| 密谋( conspire的现在分词 )； 搞阴谋； （事件等）巧合； 共同导致 | |
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127
anguish
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| n.(尤指心灵上的)极度痛苦，烦恼 | |
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128
pittance
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| n.微薄的薪水，少量 | |
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129
calamities
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| n.灾祸，灾难( calamity的名词复数 )；不幸之事 | |
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130
insolvent
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| adj.破产的，无偿还能力的 | |
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131
debtors
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| n.债务人，借方( debtor的名词复数 ) | |
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132
consolation
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| n.安慰，慰问 | |
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133
utterly
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| adv.完全地，绝对地 | |
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134
lodging
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| n.寄宿，住所；(大学生的)校外宿舍 | |
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135
imploring
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| 恳求的，哀求的 | |
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136
Christians
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| n.基督教徒( Christian的名词复数 ) | |
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137
retrieved
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| v.取回( retrieve的过去式和过去分词 )；恢复；寻回；检索（储存的信息） | |
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138
blisters
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| n.水疱( blister的名词复数 )；水肿；气泡 | |
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139
severely
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| adv.严格地；严厉地；非常恶劣地 | |
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140
amazement
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| n.惊奇，惊讶 | |
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141
tormented
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| 饱受折磨的 | |
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142
fraught
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| adj.充满…的，伴有(危险等)的；忧虑的 | |
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143
vengeance
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| n.报复，报仇，复仇 | |
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144
replete
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| adj.饱满的，塞满的；n.贮蜜蚁 | |
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145
miseries
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| n.痛苦( misery的名词复数 )；痛苦的事；穷困；常发牢骚的人 | |
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146
everlasting
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| adj.永恒的，持久的，无止境的 | |
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147
excellence
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| n.优秀，杰出，(pl.)优点，美德 | |
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148
refreshing
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| adj.使精神振作的，使人清爽的，使人喜欢的 | |
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149
drooping
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| adj. 下垂的，无力的 动词droop的现在分词 | |
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150
wilt
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| v.(使)植物凋谢或枯萎；(指人)疲倦，衰弱 | |
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151
intercede
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| vi.仲裁，说情 | |
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152
alleviate
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| v.减轻，缓和，缓解(痛苦等) | |
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153
providence
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| n.深谋远虑，天道，天意；远见；节约；上帝 | |
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154
kindly
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| adj.和蔼的，温和的，爽快的；adv.温和地，亲切地 | |
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155
immediate
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| adj.立即的；直接的，最接近的；紧靠的 | |
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156
malady
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| n.病，疾病(通常做比喻) | |
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157
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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158
dispense
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| vt.分配，分发；配(药)，发(药)；实施 | |
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159
exhort
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| v.规劝，告诫 | |
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160
penitent
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| adj.后悔的；n.后悔者；忏悔者 | |
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161
expended
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| v.花费( expend的过去式和过去分词 )；使用（钱等）做某事；用光；耗尽 | |
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162
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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163
generosity
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| n.大度，慷慨，慷慨的行为 | |
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164
miscreant
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| n.恶棍 | |
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165
concurred
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| 同意（concur的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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166
specious
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| adj.似是而非的；adv.似是而非地 | |
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167
pretext
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| n.借口，托词 | |
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168
vindicating
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| v.澄清（某人/某事物）受到的责难或嫌疑( vindicate的现在分词 )；表明或证明（所争辩的事物）属实、正当、有效等；维护 | |
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169
transgressor
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| n.违背者 | |
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170
withhold
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| v.拒绝，不给；使停止，阻挡 | |
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171
approbation
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| n.称赞；认可 | |
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172
undoubtedly
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| adv.确实地，无疑地 | |
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173
delinquent
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|
| adj.犯法的，有过失的；n.违法者 | |
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174
obliterated
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|
| v.除去( obliterate的过去式和过去分词 )；涂去；擦掉；彻底破坏或毁灭 | |
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175
luxurious
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| adj.精美而昂贵的；豪华的 | |
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176
enjoyment
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| n.乐趣；享有；享用 | |
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177
fervent
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| adj.热的，热烈的，热情的 | |
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178
fervently
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| adv.热烈地，热情地，强烈地 | |
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179
astonishment
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| n.惊奇，惊异 | |
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180
delirium
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| n. 神智昏迷,说胡话;极度兴奋 | |
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181
emulate
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| v.努力赶上或超越，与…竞争；效仿 | |
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182
trickle
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| vi.淌，滴，流出，慢慢移动，逐渐消散 | |
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183
compassionate
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| adj.有同情心的，表示同情的 | |
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184
miraculous
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| adj.像奇迹一样的，不可思议的 | |
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185
forsook
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| forsake的过去式 | |
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186
abject
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| adj.极可怜的，卑屈的 | |
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187
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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188
extravagant
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|
| adj.奢侈的；过分的；(言行等)放肆的 | |
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189
contented
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| adj.满意的，安心的，知足的 | |
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190
admonishing
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| v.劝告( admonish的现在分词 )；训诫；（温和地）责备；轻责 | |
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191
redeemed
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| adj. 可赎回的，可救赎的 动词redeem的过去式和过去分词形式 | |
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192
jaws
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| n.口部；嘴 | |
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193
bounteous
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| adj.丰富的 | |
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194
benefactors
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| n.捐助者，施主( benefactor的名词复数 )；恩人 | |
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195
requite
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| v.报酬，报答 | |
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196
consummate
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| adj.完美的；v.成婚；使完美 [反]baffle | |
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197
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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198
salvation
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| n.（尤指基督）救世，超度，拯救，解困 | |
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199
incessantly
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| ad.不停地 | |
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200
contrition
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| n.悔罪，痛悔 | |
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201
averse
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| adj.厌恶的；反对的，不乐意的 | |
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202
intercourse
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| n.性交；交流，交往，交际 | |
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203
amendment
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| n.改正，修正，改善，修正案 | |
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204
annuity
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| n.年金；养老金 | |
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205
majesty
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| n.雄伟，壮丽，庄严，威严；最高权威，王权 | |
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206
acquitted
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| 宣判…无罪( acquit的过去式和过去分词 )； 使（自己）作出某种表现 | |
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207
doom
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| n.厄运，劫数；v.注定，命定 | |
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208
utterance
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| n.用言语表达，话语，言语 | |
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209
transcended
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| 超出或超越（经验、信念、描写能力等）的范围( transcend的过去式和过去分词 )； 优于或胜过… | |
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210
sanguine
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| adj.充满希望的，乐观的，血红色的 | |
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211
maternal
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| adj.母亲的，母亲般的，母系的，母方的 | |
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212
appellation
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| n.名称，称呼 | |
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213
solitary
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| adj.孤独的，独立的，荒凉的；n.隐士 | |
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214
derived
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| vi.起源；由来；衍生；导出v.得到( derive的过去式和过去分词 )；（从…中）得到获得；源于；（从…中）提取 | |
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215
enchanting
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| a.讨人喜欢的 | |
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216
qualified
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| adj.合格的，有资格的，胜任的，有限制的 | |
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217
surmounted
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| 战胜( surmount的过去式和过去分词 )； 克服（困难）； 居于…之上； 在…顶上 | |
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218
fully
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| adv.完全地，全部地，彻底地；充分地 | |
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219
persuasion
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| n.劝说；说服；持有某种信仰的宗派 | |
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220
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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221
relinquish
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| v.放弃，撤回，让与，放手 | |
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222
peculiar
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| adj.古怪的，异常的；特殊的，特有的 | |
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223
espouse
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| v.支持，赞成，嫁娶 | |
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224
bliss
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| n.狂喜，福佑，天赐的福 | |
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225
rapture
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| n.狂喜；全神贯注；着迷；v.使狂喜 | |
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226
admiration
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| n.钦佩，赞美，羡慕 | |
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227
ornaments
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| n.装饰( ornament的名词复数 )；点缀；装饰品；首饰v.装饰，点缀，美化( ornament的第三人称单数 ) | |
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228
formerly
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| adv.从前，以前 | |
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229
mortified
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| v.使受辱( mortify的过去式和过去分词 )；伤害（人的感情）；克制；抑制（肉体、情感等） | |
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230
divers
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| adj.不同的；种种的 | |
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231
riveted
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| 铆接( rivet的过去式和过去分词 )； 把…固定住； 吸引； 引起某人的注意 | |
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232
amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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233
apparition
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| n.幽灵，神奇的现象 | |
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234
exalted
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| adj.(地位等)高的，崇高的；尊贵的，高尚的 | |
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235
paragon
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| n.模范，典型 | |
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236
royalty
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| n.皇家，皇族 | |
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237
saluting
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| v.欢迎，致敬( salute的现在分词 )；赞扬，赞颂 | |
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238
bumpers
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| （汽车上的）保险杠，缓冲器( bumper的名词复数 ) | |
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239
metropolis
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| n.首府；大城市 | |
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240
obstinacy
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| n.顽固；（病痛等）难治 | |
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241
cultivation
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| n.耕作，培养，栽培（法），养成 | |
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242
irreproachable
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| adj.不可指责的，无过失的 | |
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243
linen
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| n.亚麻布，亚麻线，亚麻制品；adj.亚麻布制的，亚麻的 | |
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244
awe
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| n.敬畏，惊惧；vt.使敬畏，使惊惧 | |
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245
veneration
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| n.尊敬，崇拜 | |
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246
exclamations
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| n.呼喊( exclamation的名词复数 )；感叹；感叹语；感叹词 | |
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247
bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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248
implore
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| vt.乞求，恳求，哀求 | |
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249
importune
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| v.强求；不断请求 | |
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250
soliciting
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| v.恳求( solicit的现在分词 )；（指娼妇）拉客；索求；征求 | |
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251
infancy
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| n.婴儿期；幼年期；初期 | |
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252
esteem
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| n.尊敬，尊重；vt.尊重，敬重；把…看作 | |
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253
erase
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| v.擦掉；消除某事物的痕迹 | |
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254
justify
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| vt.证明…正当(或有理)，为…辩护 | |
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255
heartily
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| adv.衷心地，诚恳地，十分，很 | |
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256
sincerity
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| n.真诚，诚意；真实 | |
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257
unison
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| n.步调一致，行动一致 | |
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258
inclination
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| n.倾斜；点头；弯腰；斜坡；倾度；倾向；爱好 | |
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259
embarked
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| 乘船( embark的过去式和过去分词 )； 装载； 从事 | |
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260
engrossed
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| adj.全神贯注的 | |
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261
atoning
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| v.补偿，赎（罪）( atone的现在分词 )；补偿，弥补，赎回 | |
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262
uncommon
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| adj.罕见的，非凡的，不平常的 | |
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263
vessel
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| n.船舶；容器，器皿；管，导管，血管 | |
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264
accomplishment
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| n.完成，成就，（pl.）造诣，技能 | |
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265
caressed
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| 爱抚或抚摸…( caress的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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