 them to repose in a small arbour, that stood
at one corner, in the middle of a tuft of trees, which rendered it impervious to
the view. The old gentlewoman understanding the hint, accompanied the lovers to
the entrance of this grove, where she left them, on pretence of being still
unwearied with the exercise of her legs; and their mutual raptures in this
stolen interview began to rise to a very interesting pitch, when they were
alarmed by the rustling of the leaves behind them; and turning their eyes
towards the place, perceived they were discovered by a nun, who, either by
accident or design, had concealed herself in the thicket, until, scandalized by
their behaviour, she thought it high time to signify her presence.
    It is not to be doubted that our hero and his mistress were grievously
disconcerted on this occasion. The lady cried she was undone, and had almost
fainted with fear, which was not at all without foundation, considering that not
only her reputation, but even her life was at stake. Peregrine, though he could
easily have made his escape over the garden-wall, had too much gallantry to
leave his charmer and friend in such a dangerous dilemma; and therefore, with
admirable presence of mind, advanced to the author of his perplexity, and
without any ceremony or courtship, found means to make her a party in the
secret, before she could recollect herself so far as to find fault with his
proceeding.
    This measure re-established the tranquillity of the scene: the two ladies
embraced as sisters, and vowed eternal friendship on the spot; and the young
gentleman having protested that he would share his affection between them, and
practise the same method of visiting them in a few days, rejoined his
directress, and returned in safety to his own lodgings, being but indifferently
satisfied with the adventure of the day, by which he found himself obliged,
either to forego all correspondence with the woman he loved, or carry on an
intrigue with a person who was not at all to his liking; for the attractions of
the nun were by no means inchanting.
    He next day appeared at the grate in his own person, and intimated his
sentiments on this subject to his mistress, who assured him, that
notwithstanding her behaviour to the sister, in the emergency of yesterday, she
would much rather be debarred of his company for ever, than enjoy it upon the
terms which necessity had obliged him to propose. She said, the reflection on
what had passed in the grove, had inspired her with such an unconquerable
aversion for that accidental rival,
