Mean time the poor lady is hastening, they are afraid, into a consumptive
malady. The Count of Belvedere, however, still adores her. The disorder
in her mind being imputed chiefly to religious melancholy, and some of
her particular flights not being generally known, he, who is a pious man
himself, pities her; and declares, that he would run all risks of her
recovery, would the family give her to him: and yet he knows, that she
would choose to be the wife of the Chevalier Grandison, rather than that
of any other man, were the article of religion to be got over; and
generously applauds her for preferring her faith to her love.
Signor Jeronymo is in a very bad way. Sir Charles often writes to him,
and with an affection worthy of the merits of that dear friend. He was
to undergo another severe operation on the next day after the letters
came from Bologna; the success of which was very doubtful.
How nobly does Sir Charles appear to support himself under such heavy
distresses! For those of his friends were ever his. But his heart
bleeds in secret for them. A feeling heart is a blessing that no one,
who has it, would be without; and it is a moral security of innocence;
since the heart that is able to partake of the distress of another,
cannot wilfully give it.
I think, my good Miss Byron, that I have now, as far as I am at present
able, obeyed all your commands that concern the unhappy Clementina, and
her family.
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