CHAPTER LXII.
The manuscript now reverts to another, and a much more modern period, and speaks of an individual, surely not less entitled both to admiration and esteem, than any who have preceded.
When the name of J⸺ B⸺ is introduced, we do not apprehend that our friend will incur the suspicion of being too lavish in his commendation, or will be censured for being too circumstantial in his communication.
Unfortunately, there exist too few sources of intelligence. There is but little more to detail, than that at a very early period, and long before she was a candidate for literary fame and distinction, our Sexagenarian met her familiarly at the house of her very excellent, amiable, and accomplished brother, Dr. B.; as well as at other social places of intercourse, where literary people were made welcome. The great characteristic by which she was pre-eminently distinguished, was an unaffected diffidence and modest reserve; not at all prominent in conversation, always desirous of information, never making display of the powers she herself possessed, but courteously and agreeably inviting the unfolding of those sources of instruction, which she knew appertained to others.
It does not appear that the high reputation she has deservedly acquired, has in this particular at all diminished her claims to respect and esteem. She bears her faculties meekly; or at least she did, when he who writes had the opportunity of duly appreciating her estimable qualities. Her talents are before the public; and if this work were intended as an arena for the display of critical acumen, the opportunity would readily be embraced, of paying the tribute of esteem which is most unaffectedly felt, and in this place sincerely acknowledged. But we must be satisfied with the declaration, that the short and passing acquaintance with J⸺ B⸺, was a circumstance upon which the Sexagenarian has, in his manuscript notices, expressed himself with particular earnestness of satisfaction.
Les passions les plus violentes nous laissent quelquefois du relache, mais la vanité nous agite toujours.