But, circumstanced as you and I
are at present, I will not sue for your attention as a lover, but rest
contented, if possible, with that share of kindness and regard which
your benevolence may afford me as a friend." I bowed in approbation of
his resolution. He pressed my hand with ardor to his lips; and at that
instant General Richman entered the garden. He approached us cheerfully,
offered Major Sanford his hand with apparent cordiality, and told us
pleasantly that he hoped he should not be considered as an intruder. "By
no means, sir," said Major Sanford; "it is I who have incurred that
imputation. I called this afternoon to pay you my respects, when, being
informed that you and your lady were abroad, and that Miss Wharton was
in the garden, I took the liberty to invade her retirement. She has
graciously forgiven my crime, and I was just affixing the seal to my
pardon as you entered."
We then returned into the house. Mrs. Richman received us politely.
During tea, the conversation turned on literary subjects, in which I
cannot say that the major bore a very distinguished part. After he was
gone, Mrs. Richman said, "I hope you have been agreeably entertained,
Miss Wharton." "I did not choose my company, madam," said I. "Nor," said
she, "did you refuse it, I presume." "Would you not have me respect the
rights of hospitality towards your guests when you are absent, madam?"
"If you had acted from that motive, I own my obligations to you, my
dear; but even that consideration can hardly reconcile me to the
sacrifice of time which you have made to the amusement of a seducer.
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