Page:Genlis - The Palace of Truth (1819).djvu/62

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your choice, however, proves how substantial your taste is, and you never need fear a rival or the torments of jealously.

A single word deprived Zumio of all his pleasantry; I only named Arpalisa, and he stood confounded and aghast.

After a moment's silence, My lord, said he, I easily conceive your chagrin and disgust, but, though the beauty of this princess be borrowed, though her complexion, shape, and flowing air, are all artificial, I yet flatter myself we have not been deceived in her soul, her understanding, and talents; and as she has said she loves you, I am persuaded you will find she spoke truth.

If so, said I, Zumio, if I have had the misfortune to make such a woman love me, what will become of me? My only consolation, my only hope, is to find her perfidious.

An attendant now came to tell me the princess was inquiring for me, and decorum obliged me to go.

I found her alone in a chamber, and extended on a couch; she had a handkerchief and a

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