 within my breast.
    At midnight I left the kind nymph to her repose, and being let out by Miss
Williams, at the garden gate by which I entered, began to explore my way
homeward in the dark, when I heard at my back a noise like that of a baboon when
he mows and chatters. I turned instantly, and perceiving something black,
concluded I was discovered by some spy, employed to watch for that purpose:
Arroused at this conjecture, by which the reputation of the virtuous Narcissa
appeared in jeopardy, I drew my sword, and would have sacrificed him to her
fame, had not the voice of Strap restrained my arm: It was with great difficulty
he could pronounce, »D-d-d--do! mum-um-um-murder me, if you please!« Such an
effect had the cold upon his jaws, that his teeth rattled like a pair of
castanets - Pleased to be thus undeceived, I laughed at his consternation, and
asked what brought him thither? Upon which he gave me to understand that his
concern for me had induced him to dodge me to that place, where the same reason
had detained him till now; and he frankly owned, that in spite of the esteem he
had for Miss Williams, he began to be very uneasy about me, considering the
disposition in which I went abroad; and if I had staid much longer, would have
certainly alarmed the neighbourhood in my behalf. - The knowledge of this his
intention confounded me! I represented to him the mischievous consequences that
would have attended such a rash action, and cautioning him severely against any
such design for the future, concluded my admonition with an assurance, that in
case he should ever act so madly, I would, without hesitation put him to death.
- »Have a little patience (cried he, in a lamentable tone) your displeasure will
do the business, without your committing murder.« - I was touched with this
reproach; and as soon as we got home, made it my business to appease him, by
explaining the cause of that transport, during which I had used him so
unworthily.
    Next day when I went into the long room, I observed several whispers
circulate all of a sudden; and did not doubt that Melinda had been busy with my
character; but I consoled myself with the love of Narcissa, upon which I rested
with the most perfect confidence, and going up to the rowly-powly table, won a
few pieces from my suspected rival, who with an easy politeness, entered into
conversation with me
