ABSTRACT
No event could have happened more favorable to the views of Lady Newenden than this expedition of Sir Edward; none that more strongly confirmed the reports that had obtained of Sir Edward’s attachment to Ethelinde. The recent duel had drawn all eyes upon him; and that while he was yet uncertain of the life of his adversary, and himself wounded, he should fly to the house where he had placed Ethelinde, could hardly fail of attracting observations as prejudicial to her as corroborating the suspicions which Mr. Maltravers and his family had affected to believe. Of this Sir Edward, as he journeyed towards Brackwood, could not but be sensible: but Ethelinde in danger, and languishing on a sick bed; that lovely face disfigured, that lovely form suffering under painful operations; the grave perhaps opening to receive her; were images which obliterated all the impressions that cold prudence could make. Repeatedly he had promised to her father to defend and protect her; and his generosity, as well as his love forbade his forfeiting that sacred promise least the worthless and illiberal should cavil at his fulfilling it.
