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became too wearisome for him, and he left me: I, however, did without him, and continued my journey; but I soon travelled slower, and stopt oftener, till, at last, I stopped too long, and became faithless.

Honour and friendship brought my vows to recollection again. I continued my travels, and found the woman I had so passionately loved, but who now was no more than a dear and interesting friend. She was deeply affected by all I had done for her: incapable of deceiving me, she confessed she no longer had the power of participating that love she supposed she inspired; for that, during so long an absence, another object had possessed her heart. At present, added she, I am free, and feel I am never more liable to the seductions of love; let sincerity, O Nadir! be thought the best proof of my gratitude; and if, after this confession, you love me still, to you I am ready to devote my life: you have lost a passionate mistress, but you will find a faithful wife and a tender friend.

Her candour enchanted me, and I, in my

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