He said many things to me that I did not understand, but I comprehended their import.

He began by making absurd speeches, at which I laughed.
Then he asked me to marry him, as I had long known he would do as soon as you gave him the opportunity.

I refused his offer.

Then he insisted, saying that you, sir, had determined on this marriage, and would keep me a close prisoner here until the torture of the situation broke down my strength.

I assured him that I would never yield to force.