ABSTRACT
Calantha’s jewels and costly attire – her equipages and attendants, were now the constant topic of conversation. Every rich gift was ostentatiously exhibited; while congratulations, were on all sides, poured forth, upona the youthful bride. Lady Margaret, eagerly displaying the splendid store to Calantha,b asked her if she were not happy. – ‘Do not,’ she repliedc addressing her aunt, ‘do not fancy that I am weak enough to value these baubles: – My heart at least is free from a folly like this: – I despise this mockery of riches.’ ‘You despise it!’ repeated Lady Margaret, with an incredulous smile: – ‘you despise grandeur and vanity! Child,d believe one who knows you well, you worship them;e they are your idols; and while your simple voice sings forth romantic praises of simplicity and retirement, you have been cradled in luxury, and you cannot exist without it.’
