Transport at Seeing Narcissa
The protagonist is completely overcome upon seeing Narcissa. His heart pounds violently, his vision blurs, ears ring, and he struggles to breathe. Flattering ideas rush upon him as he recalls every engaging quality of the dear creature, though his joy is soon shadowed by the fear she may already be disposed of to another.
Miss Snapper’s Discovery
While the protagonist remains entranced by Narcissa’s presence, Miss Snapper observes his absence of mind and traces his glances to their source. Her interrogation reveals his attachment despite his attempts at disguise, causing her to assume a stateliness of behavior and sit silent for the remainder of the evening.
Sarcastic Compliment
On their way home, Miss Snapper tells the protagonist she has too great a regard to keep him any longer in torment, clearly sarcastically acknowledging his distracted state. He feigns ignorance of her meaning and deposits her safely at her lodgings before departing in an ecstasy.
Meeting Miss Williams
The next day, while walking to the Pump Room in hopes of hearing about Narcissa, the protagonist encounters Miss Williams, an old sweetheart. She recognizes him with evident surprise and joy at his improved circumstances, revealing she now serves as a gentlewoman to a young lady.
Revelation of Narcissa’s Regard
Miss Williams explains that the lady she serves is Narcissa herself, who has confided in her about the mysterious John Brown. She describes how Narcissa has dwelt upon his story with admiration and expressed tender approbation for his flame, unaware that John Brown is the very man before her.
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