The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 86: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THE PRECIPICE 69 seemed to take no note of my actions. And sometimes, dear Zoe, when I reflected on all this, I thought to myself that my father was placing illimitable confidence in me, and that I was betraying it. -But then, on the other hand, I persuaded myself that this very confidence on my father’s part was as much as to abandon me to the discretionary power of catering for my own happiness. I have no doubt that you look upon such an idea as the most miserable sophistry on my part, but if the love which I experience be the same as the love which is felt by others, I am convinced that it is in the very nature of love itself to suggest expedients and even conjure up arguments that are in precise accordance with its own aims, views, or circumstances.” “ This is true, Clarine,” said Lady Octavian; ‘‘ the voice of nature speaks a common and universal language through the medium of the heart’s love.”’ “One day,’’ continued Clarine, ‘“‘ my father told me that you would probably become my companion for awhile, and to confess the truth I was at first more vexed than pleased, though I did my best to appear grateful to my parent and to seem satisfied at the arrangement that he was making with the best of motives on my behalf. I was told that you were an invalid; I thought therefore that you would be much in your own chamber, and that I should still find leisure to meet him who had become so dear to me. You arrived at the chateau, and I immediately conceived a friendship for you, — a friendship which has ripened into love. Yes, dear Zoe —’’ At this instant Mademoiselle Volney stopped short, and Lady Octavian Meredith instantaneously comprehended wherefore, for Monsieur Volney was approaching from the distance. -“ He means to accost us,” said Clarine, after a few instants’ pause. ‘“‘I must compose myself — Another time I| will finish my narrative.” Eomicboo cS (E(0)