With the diamonds were intermingled
every precious gem, the topaz, the jasper, the emerald, the chrysolite,
and the sapphire. The head was of Persian silk, and dyed with Tyrian
purple. This coronet they placed upon the head of Imogen, and then
descending to the footstool of the throne, bowed upon her feet. The song
immediately recommenced.
"Imogen is under the guardianship of simplicity, her favourite pupil.
Pollute not the ear of Imogen with the praises of beauty. What though
her eye be full of amiableness and eloquence; what though her cheeks
rival the peach, and her lips the coral; what though her bosom be soft
as wax and fairer than the face of honour; what though her tresses are
brighter than the shooting star? These are the bounties of nature; these
are the gifts of heaven, in which she claims no merit; these are not the
praises of Imogen. But this is her praise, that the graces dwell upon
her lips; that her words are attired with the garb of sense and fancy;
and that all her conduct is governed by the largest prudence and the
nicest discretion. Heard you the sound of merriment and applause? They
were the gay and unlaboured sallies of the wit of Imogen that called
them forth. Saw you the look of wonder and astonishment, and the gaze of
involuntary approbation and reverence? They were excited by the modesty,
the circumspection, and the virtue of Imogen.
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