| Citation |
NYC.769.079
31 Aug-7 Sep 1769:1492 (1/19)
THE EGOTIST. No.XXXV. To the author of the Egotist. Sir,
If you give yourself the trouble to read the following
particulars, you will soon be convinced, that they are
communicated merely as a lesson of instruction for the vain
and the inconsiderate. Merited misfortunes can never excite
compassion, nor can a despicable conduct ever admit of
justification. [97 more lines of narration about a
succession of events in London.] My uncle restored to
health, I revisited the country, and resolved at an
approaching ball, at which I was previously engaged to dance
with my lively mistress, to throw off all restraint, and
give myself publickly for a villain. . . [9 lines]
I coolly addressed her, she followed my lead, and as
coolly replied; the minuets over, with the glow of
ungenerous exultation on her cheek, my partner gave me her
hand, and we joined in the country dances. . . [7 lines]
The ice thus broke, I congratulated myself on my conduct
and resolution, when to my confusion, I perceived the
affronted girl, instead of retiring to give vent to her
sorrows, had engaged in the dance, and was but one couple
from my immediate encounter.
. . . [65 lines, signed] ALPHONSO.
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