The Adventures of Roderick Random

Introduction to Narcissa

Upon entering the dining room, the narrator’s eyes are immediately greeted by the sight of Narcissa, blushing and adorned with all the graces of meekness, innocence, and beauty. He is seized with giddiness and his knees tremble as he performs the ceremony of salutation. The squire introduces him as “Measure Randan,” slapping him on the shoulder. The narrator approaches Narcissa with both eagerness and fear, and in the moment of their embrace, his soul is agonized with rapture. The squire, lacking penetration, encourages the narrator to speak French with his sister, but Narcissa declines this proposal with a sweetness of denial, displaying proper respect for those who would not understand the language. Throughout dinner, the narrator feasts his eyes on Narcissa more than his appetite, though she tempts him with delicious morsels from her fair hand.

The Squire’s Nap

After dinner concludes, the squire becomes exceedingly drowsy. After numerous tremendous yawns, he rises, stretches himself, and takes several turns across the room. He then requests permission to take a short nap, placing a strong injunction upon his sister to detain the guests until his return. Without further ceremony, he departs to his repose. The narrator notes that it was a lucky circumstance that the squire lacked uncommon penetration, for the mutual confusion between the narrator and Narcissa was so manifest that Mr. Freeman perceives it. As they walk home later, Freeman congratulates the narrator on his good fortune, though the squire himself remains entirely unsuspecting.