It is now first that an
opportunity is offered to turn it to those purposes for which it was
more immediately destined. Dost thou not now address an obdurate maid?
Is she not full of constancy and attachment for another? What avails it
then to a heart, simple and unvitiated as hers, to offer the bribe of
riches, and to lavish the incense of flattery and adulation. Attack her
in her love. Appear to her in the form of him to whom she is most
ardently attached. If Imogen is vulnerable, this is the quarter from
which she must be approached. Thus far Roderic thou mayest try thy
power; but if by this avenue thou canst not surprise her heart and
overpower her virtue, be then wise. Recollect thy courage, strengthen
thy resolution, and shake off for ever a capricious inclination, which
interrupts the tenour of a life that might otherwise wear the uniform
colour of happiness."
The information of a new measure for the furthering his darling pursuit,
was a communication of the most reviving kind to the heart of Roderic.
The gloom and petulance that had collected upon his countenance were
dissipated in a moment. His cheek caught anew the flush of expectation;
his eye sparkled anew with the insolence of victory. His gratitude to
the propitious Medoro was now as immoderate as his displeasure had
lately been unreasonable.
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