A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy

Yorick admits that he was enchanted by the “figure and appearance” (14) of the woman when he first spotted her talking to the monk. Now, standing next to the her, he admires her “good education and her good sense” (14), demonstrated by her offering him her hand. At first, he imagines her to be stunningly beautiful, then discovers that she is not “critically handsome” (15), though he does find her face to be interesting and believes he can detect some great tragedy in the woman’s past. As the two stand staring at the carriage door, Yorick feels benevolent and resolves to speak to her, saying that it must be fate that has brought them together in this moment. She chastises him for commenting on this and withdraws her hand, an act that mortifies Yorick. He tries to rally, beginning another conversation when she places her hand in his again, but fails, losing her hand and his train of thought. Dessein returns with the key and Yorick decides that the woman must have spoken to the monk, who prejudiced her against him.

The monk approaches them and offers Yorick his snuffbox. Yorick pulls out his more expensive snuffbox and insists that the monk use it.