Meeting Narcissa
Left in mortification and confusion, the protagonist finds relief in thoughts of the ever-faithful and fond Narcissa. He quits the scene of his humiliation and wanders about the town, eventually entering a toy-shop where he purchases a ruby ring shaped like a heart surrounded by diamond sparks for ten guineas, intended as a present for his beloved. At the appointed hour, he is introduced to Narcissa, who, despite having heard reports to his disadvantage, receives him with the utmost confidence and tenderness. She expresses a desire to know the particular circumstances of his life, having already learned the general sketches from Miss Williams.
Hearing My Life Story
Narcissa’s curiosity about the protagonist’s life leads him to recount his experiences with great candor, though he omits certain details he considers improper for her ears. His story consists primarily of misfortunes, and during the entire narration, tears of sympathy cease not to trickle from Narcissa’s enchanting eyes. The emotional recounting deepens their bond, and upon its conclusion, she recompenses him with the most endearing protestations of eternal love. She bewails her restricted condition as it retards his happiness and reveals that Lord Quiverwit has visited her that very afternoon with a marriage proposal from her brother, creating tension and urgency in the romantic situation.
Vows of Constancy
Narcissa, seeing the protagonist extremely affected by the revelation of Quiverwit’s proposal, offers a convincing proof of her affection by proposing to espouse him privately and leave the rest to fate. Though penetrated by this gesture of regard, the protagonist resists the tempting offer out of consideration for her honor and interest, thereby demonstrating generosity that matches her own. He presents the ruby ring as a pledge of inviolable attachment and, on his knees, invokes Heaven’s curses upon his head should his heart ever entertain unworthy thoughts. Narcissa receives this token and gives him her picture in miniature, exquisitely drawn and set in gold. She assumes the same posture and calls Heaven to witness and judge her flame. Their vows being mutually exchanged, confidence of hope ensues, and their mutual fondness becomes as intimate as innocence allows. The protagonist grows insensible to time’s progress, and it is morning before he can tear himself from his darling.
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