His behaviour was the standard of politeness, and all
his advances were conducted with the most profound respect; which
is the most effectual expedient a man can use against us, if he
can find means to persuade us that it proceeds from the excess and
delicacy of his passion. It is no other than a silent compliment,
by which our accomplishments are continually flattered. and pleases
in proportion to the supposed understanding of him who pays it.
"By these arts and advantages this consummate politician in love
began by degrees to sap the foundation of my conjugal faith: he
stole imperceptibly into my affection, and by dint of opportunity,
which he well knew how to improve, triumphed at last over all his
rivals.
"Nor was he the only person that disputed my heart with Earl C--.
That nobleman was also rivalled by Lord C. H--, a Scotchman, who
had been an intimate and relation of my former husband. Him I would
have preferred to most of his competitors, and actually coquetted
with him for some time: but the amour was interrupted by his going
to Ireland; upon which occasion, understanding that he was but
indifferently provided with money, I made him a present of a gold
snuff-box, in which was enclosed a bank-note; a trifling mark
of my esteem, which he afterwards justified by the most grateful,
friendly, and genteel behaviour; and as we corresponded by letters,
I frankly told him, that Mr.
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