Alice Bridgenorth became more assured as she observed the power which she possessed over her lover; and the self-command which Peveril exhibited, which other damsels in her situation might have judged inconsistent with intensity of passion, she appreciated more justly, as a proof of his respectful and disinterested sincerity.

She recovered, in addressing him, the tone of confidence which rather belonged to the scenes of their early acquaintance, than to those which had passed betwixt them since Peveril had disclosed his affection, and thereby had brought restraint upon their intercourse.
"Julian," she said, "your visit of yesterday--your most ill-timed visit, has distressed me much.

It has misled my father--it has endangered you.
At all risks, I resolved that you should know this, and blame me not if I have taken a bold and imprudent step in desiring this solitary interview, since you are aware how little poor Deborah is to be trusted." "Can you fear misconstruction from me, Alice ?" replied Peveril warmly; "from me, whom you have thus highly favoured--thus deeply obliged ?" "Cease your protestations, Julian," answered the maiden; "they do but make me the more sensible that I have acted over boldly.

But I did for the best .-- I could not see you whom I have known so long--you, who say you regard me with partiality----" "_Say_ that I regard you with partiality!" interrupted Peveril in his turn.

"Ah, Alice, with a cold and doubtful phrase you have used to express the most devoted, the most sincere affection!" "Well, then," said Alice sadly, "we will not quarrel about words; but do not again interrupt me .-- I could not, I say, see you, who, I believe, regard me with sincere though vain and fruitless attachment, rush blindfold into a snare, deceived and seduced by those very feelings towards me." "I understand you not, Alice," said Peveril; "nor can I see any danger to which I am at present exposed.