And could we feel ourselves justified in exposing you to privations and sorrows, which our cooler judgment may perceive, though naturally concealed from the eye of affection?
Seldom, very seldom, are those marriages happy in which such an extreme disparity exists, more particularly when, as in this case, the superiority is on the side of the wife.

I know this sounds like cold and worldly reasoning, my Emmeline; I know that this warm, fond heart revolts in agony from every word, but do not, do not think me cruel, love, and shrink from my embrace.

How can I implore you, for my sake, still to struggle with these sad feelings, to put every effort into force to conquer this unhappy love?
and yet my duty bids me do so; for, oh, I cannot part with you for certain poverty and endless care.

Speak to me, my own; promise me that you will try and be contented with your father's exertions to clear Arthur's character from all aspersions.

You will not ask for more ?" There was a moment's pause.