I know the disgrace; and if he, knowing all, thinks fit to give me up, I shall never say a word, but bow my head, and try and live out my appointed days quietly and cheerfully.

But he is the judge, not you; nor have I any right to do what you ask me." She stopped, because the agitation took away her breath.
He began in a cold manner:--"I am very sorry.

The law must take its course.
I would have saved my son from the pain of all this knowledge, and that which he will of course feel in the necessity of giving up his engagement.
I would have refused to appear against your brother, shamefully ungrateful as he has been.

Now you cannot wonder that I act according to my agent's advice, and prosecute your brother as if he were a stranger." He turned to go away.

He was so cold and determined that for a moment Maggie was timid.