You would have prevented future suffering, by banishing from the first all secret hopes; but no, you wished to prove you could accomplish more than others, by captivating one so reserved and superior as St.Eval.Do not interrupt me by a denial, Caroline, for you dare not deliberately say such was not your motive.

That noble integrity which I have so long believed your own, you have exiled from your heart.

Your entire conduct towards St.Eval has been one continued falsehood, and are you then worthy to be united to one who is truth, honour, nobleness itself?
Had you loved another, your rejection of this young man might have been excused, but not your behaviour towards him; for that not one good reason can be brought forward in excuse.

I am speaking severely, Caroline, and perhaps my every word may alienate your confidence and affection still farther from me; but my duty shall be done, painful as it may be both to yourself and me.

I cannot speak tamely on a subject in which the future character and welfare of my child are concerned.