Happily for you, I scarcely knew you before I loved you; that love deepened,--it caught something pure and elevated from yourself.

My resolution forsook me; even now I could throw myself on my knees and thank God that you--you, dearest and noblest of human beings--are not my wife.

Now, is my conduct clear to you?
If not, imagine me all that is villanous, save in one point, where you are concerned, and not a shadow of mystery will remain.

Your kind father, overrating the paltry service I rendered you, would have consented to submit my fate to your decision.

I blush indignantly for him--for you--that any living man should have dreamed of such profanation for Miss Brandon.