 Accursed creator!
Why did you form a monster so hideous that even you turned from me in disgust?
God, in pity, made man beautiful and alluring, after his own image; but my form
is a filthy type of yours, more horrid even from the very resemblance. Satan had
his companions, fellow-devils, to admire and encourage him; but I am solitary
and abhorred.
    These were the reflections of my hours of despondency and solitude; but when
I contemplated the virtues of the cottagers, their amiable and benevolent
dispositions, I persuaded myself that when they should become acquainted with my
admiration of their virtues, they would compassionate me, and overlook my
personal deformity. Could they turn from their door one, however monstrous, who
solicited their compassion and friendship? I resolved, at least, not to despair,
but in every way to fit myself for an interview with them which would decide my
fate. I postponed this attempt for some months longer; for the importance
attached to its success inspired me with a dread lest I should fail. Besides, I
found that my understanding improved so much with every day's experience, that I
was unwilling to commence this undertaking until a few more months should have
added to my sagacity.
    Several changes, in the mean time, took place in the cottage. The presence
of Safie diffused happiness among its inhabitants; and I also found that a
greater degree of plenty reigned there. Felix and Agatha spent more time in
amusement and conversation, and were assisted in their labours by servants. They
did not appear rich, but they were contented and happy; their feelings were
serene and peaceful, while mine became every day more tumultuous. Increase of
knowledge only discovered to me more clearly what a wretched outcast I was. I
cherished hope, it is true; but it vanished, when I beheld my person reflected
in water, or my shadow in the moonshine, even as that frail image and that
inconstant shade.
    I endeavoured to crush these fears, and to fortify myself for the trial
which in a few months I resolved to undergo; and some times I allowed my
thoughts, unchecked by reason, to ramble in the fields of Paradise, and dared to
fancy amiable and lovely creatures sympathising with my feelings, and cheering
my gloom; their angelic countenances breathed smiles of consolation. But it was
all a dream; no Eve soothed my sorrows, nor shared my thoughts; I was alone. I
remembered Adam's supplication to his Creator. But where was mine? He had
abandoned me; and, in the bitterness of my heart,
