Page:Genlis - The Palace of Truth (1819).djvu/128

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Azema, as she spoke, was struck with the indignation she saw painted in the countenance of Philamir. What, prince, said she, do you suspect me of affectation? Think you there is any exaggeration in the heroic sentiments I endeavour so much to discover?

O! exclaimed Philamir, as he rose, that all the monsters of your species were obliged to speak with the same sincerity, that they might only have the power to inspire contempt and horror!

Philamir spoke, and hastily withdrew, reflecting as he went on this adventure. Into what snares, said he, might curiosity alone lead a person of my age, from a wish to see how far such a woman could go! I found myself kneeling to her: I despised her, was not her dupe; yet she amused me, appeared charm-ing, and, had she not discovered a soul so black and base, I had for an instant forgotten Zeolide.

Thus reflecting, the prince turned with melancholy step toward the palace, when Gelanor came from a grove, and said, Come hither, my

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