The majesty of the one had nothing in it of the gross, the
indelicate, and the forbidding; and the softness of the other was
attempered with inexpressible propriety and grace. Both of them were
gentle and affable. But the affability of the former took the name of
benignity and condescension, and the affability of the latter was full
of harmless gaiety, and a cheerful and unpretending spirit of society.
"We cannot," replied the elder, "attend to your enquiries here. The
apartment is comfortless and inhospitable. You appear fatigued. And we
pretend not, young stranger, merely to contribute what is in our power
to relieve the uneasiness of your mind, we would also refresh your
wearied frame. Come in then, and we will afford you every satisfaction
we are able. Enter the mansion, and partake of the plenty the Gods have
bestowed upon us, and which we desire not to engross to ourselves."
During these words Edwin surveyed his fair entertainers with wonder and
admiration. But enchanting as they were, they found not the avenue to
his heart. There Imogen reigned alone, and could not admit of a rival.
Even though upon a slighter occasion, and at less important moment, the
purity of his mind, that virtue so much esteemed among the swains, could
have been tainted, yet now that his undertaking whispered him, "Imogen
alone is fair!" now that he feared for her safety, and hoped every
moment to arrive at the dreaded, pleasing period of his anxiety, he
could but be constant and be faithful.
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