Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1851 edition. Excerpt: ... home to your own environments, amongst which I am a stranger. You will feel differently towards me there, and perhaps regret the kindness you have shown to me." "Albert, you are a child! do not let me believe you in earnest; have you not asked me to be your friend?--have I aot called you my friend?--and would you wish me to believe that a friend is such a transient blessing--such a perishable treasure? I have heard it always said that friendship is better than gold; but you seem to think it is even less to be relied upon." "No, no; but how can you help feeling yourself superior to me, and seeing me as I am? it is that which I dread." "I am not a child, nor even a very young person. What I value to-day I shall value to-morrow. I shall never change towards you from caprice; if you were to prove yourself unworthy of the friendship I have given you, it would be the greatest grief that could happen to me." "I would rather have your friendship than the passionate love of all the rest of your sex," said Albert fervently; "you have opened a new life to me. I shall worship you in absence even more than when you are present! You are my religion! But why are you leaving me?--it is not yet time for you to depart." "I must find Mrs. Arl, to tell her of this change of plans. I do not intend to invite her for to-morrow; but at least I must wish her good-bye." "And me too," said Albert; "promise me five minutes more before you go." "You must find them then. I shall order the carriage to be round at twelve: it is now eleven--we are the last at the table.." Mrs. Arl was perfectly indifferent whether Lady Wollaston went or stayed--perhaps on the whole it was quite as convenient she should go; but she expressed the most polite regret, and when she heard of...