To this invitation Philip felt no repugnance, and consequently made no objection: for he was very desirous of seeing more of Clara Rivolta, and of ingratiating himself into her favour, should such a measure be found necessary or desirable in a financial point of view. As the London winter was now approaching, he also hoped that he should have an opportunity of observing how Mr. Martindale’s relatives would be received in the world, determining to be chiefly governed as to his decision respecting Clara by the manner in which her family should be noticed. He had sense enough to see that Signora Rivolta was a superior woman in mind and manners; but he was doubtful whether the rank of his cousin was high enough, or wealth extensive enough, to command respect for a natural daughter. There is a jealousy of superior minds; and artificial nobility feels indignant at being eclipsed by natural nobility. As for Clara, her mild and gentle spirit would create for her affection and patronage every where. The sweetness of her temper, the unobtrusive soundness of her judgment, her strong natural sense of propriety, would command universal regard; but there was also to be considered the reception with which the mother might meet: for the mother and the daughter were clearly inseparable. The one would receive no smiles or courtesy which should be denied to or withheld from the other. A severe trial now awaited the half-captived heart of Clara Rivolta.
END OF VOL. I.
LONDON:
PRINTED BY A.J. VALPY, RED LION COURT, FLEET STREET.