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So sudden an alteration made them restless till they knew the cause, which they soon ⟨had⟩ by her companions, unto whom she told ⟨her⟩ passion; as likewise by a letter she had written in order to send it to him by a faithful ⟨and⟩ trusty friend, had accidentally dropped it; which contained these words:
"AURELIUS,
"Seeing you do not understand the language of a love sick virgin's eyes, pardon the liberty I take to let you know Lucinda ⟨doats⟩ on you, and begs you will requite her love with your love, who for your sake renounces the rest of mankind Then have compassion on, or for ever miserable must remain,
"LUCINDA"
This gave the several amourists all knowledge on whose account they found much cold entertainment from their beloved mistress, whom every one of them fearing to lose, (illegible text)nt his study how to remove the obstacle which stood between them and their much desired happiness.
Some were of opinion that nothing but the death of Aurelius could effect it; but others