"THE IMPROVISATRICE," " THE VENETIAN BRACELET," &c. &c. &c. Thus have I begun ; And 'tis my hope to end successfully. SHAKESPEARE. IN THREE VOLUMES. VOL. II. LONDON: HENRY COLBURN AND RICHARD BENTLEY, NEW BURLINGTON STREET. ROMANCE AND REALITY. 66 CHAPTER I. "Those first affections, Which, be they what they may, Are yet the fountain light of all our day." Though nothing can bring back the hour, We will grieve not-rather find Strength in what remains behind: Which, having been, must ever be— In the soothing thoughts that spring In the faith that looks through death." WORDSWORTH. Of all passions, love is the most engrossing * and the most superstitious. How often has a leaf, a star, a breath of wind, been held as an omen! It draws all things into somewhat of relation to itself: it is despotic, and jealous of all authority but its own: it bars the heart |
