Your noble frankness, so unlike the irresolute frailty, the miserable wiles of your sex, has touched a chord in my heart that has been mute for years.

I leave you to think better of human nature.

Oh!" he continued, "hasten to forget all of me that can cost you a pang.

Let me still, in absence and in sadness, think that I retain in your friendship--let it be friendship only--the inspiration, the guide of which you spoke; and if, hereafter, men shall name me with praise and honour, feel, Valerie, feel that I have comforted myself for the loss of your love by becoming worthy of your confidence--your esteem.

Oh, that we had met earlier, when no barrier was between us!" "Go, go, _now_," faltered Valerie, almost choked with her emotions; "may Heaven bless you! Go!" Maltravers muttered a few inaudible and incoherent words, and quitted the apartment..