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The duration of my absence was left to my own choice; a few

months, or at most a year, was the period contemplated. One

paternal kind precaution he had taken to ensure my having a

companion. Without previously communicating with me, he had, in

concert with Elizabeth, arranged that Clerval should join me at

Strasburgh. This interfered with the solitude I coveted for the

prosecution of my task; yet at the commencement of my journey the

presence of my friend could in no way be an impediment, and truly

I rejoiced that thus I should be saved many hours of lonely,

maddening reflection. Nay, Henry might stand between me and the

intrusion of my foe. If I were alone, would he not at times force

his abhorred presence on me to remind me of my task or to

contemplate its progress?