My grief at this
misfortune was inexpressible. I forthwith despatched a message to
the dear, the anxious father, who flew to my arms, and shared my
sorrow, with all the gentleness of love and parental fondness; yet
our fears were, for that time, happily disappointed by the recovery
of our infant daughter, who was committed to the charge of a nurse
in the neighbourhood; so that I could every day be satisfied in
my inquiries about her health. Thus I continued a whole fortnight
in a state of happiness and tranquility, being blessed with
the conversation and tender offices of my admirer, whose love and
attention I wholly engrossed. In a word, he gave up all business
and amusement, and concentrated all his care and assiduity in
ministering to my ease and satisfaction: and sure I had no cause
to regret what I had suffered on his account.
"But this my agreeable situation was one day disturbed by a most
alarming accident, by which my life was drawn into imminent danger.
The room under my bed-chamber took fire: I immediately smelt it, and
saw the people about me in the utmost perplexity and consternation,
though they would not own the true cause of their confusion, lest
my health should suffer in the fright.
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