But I outgrew those fancies,
and only preserved an invincible self-respect, which I have always
cherished. Nothing in the world would have induced me to dishonour the
illustrious blood that flows in my veins. The disgraceful license of the
coulisses, and the loathsome gallantries lavished upon all actresses,
even those who are not comely, disgusted me from the first, and I have
lived in the theatre almost as if in a convent. The good old pedant
has been like a watchful father to me, and as for Herode, he would have
severely chastised any one who dared to touch me with the tip of his
finger, or even to pronounce a vulgar word in my presence. Although they
are only obscure actors, they are very honourable, worthy men, and I
trust you will be good enough to help them if they ever find themselves
in need of assistance. I owe it partly to them that I can lift my
forehead for your kiss without a blush of shame, and proudly declare
myself worthy, so far as purity is concerned, to be your daughter. My
only regret is to have been the innocent cause of the misfortune that
has overtaken the duke, your son. I could have wished to enter your
family, my dear father, under more favourable auspices."
"You have nothing to reproach yourself with, my sweet child, for you
could not divine these mysteries, which have been suddenly disclosed
by a combination of circumstances that would be considered romantic
and improbable, even in a novel; and my joy at finding you as worthy
in every way to be my beloved and honoured daughter, as if you had not
lived amid all the dangers of such a career, makes up for the pain and
anxiety caused by the illness and danger of my son.
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