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"I know not, Sir," said Cecilia, with the utmost surprise, "why you should suppose I have any such influence; nor can I iine that any deception has been practiced"

"It is possible," answered he, "I may have been too ht to be depended upon but that of his surgeon You, madam, may probably know his opinion?"

"Me?--No, indeed? I never saw his surgeon; I know not even who he is"

"I purpose calling upon hi; will Miss Beverley per to her what h; "butyou that trouble"

Delvile, perceiving her change of countenance, instantly, and with much respect, entreated her pardon for the proposal; which, however, she had no sooner granted, than he said very archly, "Why indeed you have not ry, since it was your own frankness that excited mine And thus, you find, like most other culprits, I am ready to cast the blame of the offence upon the offended I feel, however, an irresistible propensity to do service to Mr Belfield;-- shall I sin quite beyond forgiveness if I venture to tell you how I found hi?"

"No, certainly,--if you wish it, I can have no objection"

"I found hi h and talk without ceasing: he assured allop out of town to-, I was both shocked and alar heat of the skin, that far froht rather to call in a physician"

"I am very much concerned to hear this account," said Cecilia; "but I do not well understand what you mean should on , with a look ofthe case I have satisfiedit you can pardon the liberty I have taken, I shall as much honour the openness of your character, as I admire that of your countenance"

Cecilia now, to her no little astonishment, found she had the sa Mr Belfield, that only three days before she had explained with respect to the Baronet But she had no time to speak further upon the subject, as the entrance of Mrs Delvile put an end to their discourse