ABSTRACT
The temper of Davenant, though it appeared to have no strong bias, was yet much tinctured with that mean jealousy, the infirmity of narrow minds, which cannot bear the success of another, even in points wherein they really feel no other interest than that which arises from the repining malignity of conscious inferiority towards eminent abilities, beauty, or fortune. The praises which had been bestowed on Montgomery had imparted to the heart of Davenant this species of corrosive discontent. He neither loved Ethelinde or any human being but himself, but the envy be conceived against Montgomery, whom he considered as a man without fortune and without pretensions, prompted him with redoubled solicitude to pursue Ethelinde; and determined him, by professing himself her lover, to convince Montgomery that he must no longer presumptuously aspire to the honour of her notice. This resolution being strengthened by the advice of Lord Danesforte, Davenant addressed himself the next morning to Sir Edward; in some confusion owned his partiality to Miss Chesterville; and desired his interest, and that of Lady Newenden, to promote his suit.
