Page:Genlis - The Palace of Truth (1819).djvu/86

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

72

fectly imitated, the mysterious cyphers. This operation over, Zumio came, and on him I first tried the virtue of your talisman; I told him I did not love him, and found the box gave me the capability of disguising my thoughts. Zumio left me in despair; I went to find, and met you. I had but one fear, which was, that you had discovered my theft, though scarcely two hours had passed since it had happened; but soon found you had not. While you expressed your transports, I adroitly slipped my crystal box into your pocket, and kept your's. I knew the cheat must in time be discovered, if we remained here: but I flattered myself I should easily prevail on you soon to quit this palace. I had been tempted by opportunity, spurred on by ambition, and wanted time to make all the necessary reflections, which should have deterred me from this enterprise.

You now know all, my lord. I reproach myself for having deceived you: I reproach myself more for having sacrificed Zumio: bat I have discovered no malice, have not debased myself; and, though deprived of the talisman,

This article is issued from Wikisource. The text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 unless otherwise noted. Additional terms may apply for the media files.