I should meet with a thousand obstacles in the tenderness and terror of Eliza, and in the prudent affection of her father.

Their arguments I should be condemned to hear, but should not be able to confute; and should only load myself with imputations of perverseness and temerity.
But how else should I explain my absence?
I had hitherto preserved my lips untainted by prevarication or falsehood.

Perhaps there was no occasion which would justify an untruth; but here, at least, it was superfluous or hurtful.

My disappearance, if effected without notice or warning, will give birth to speculation and conjecture; but my true motives will never be suspected, and therefore will excite no fears.

My conduct will not be charged with guilt.