Captain Waverley's character is so open--is, in short, of that nature, that it cannot be misconstrued, either in its strength or its weakness.' 'And for that weakness you despise me ?' said Edward.
'Forgive me, Mr.Waverley, and remember it is but within this half-hour that there existed between us a barrier of a nature to me insurmountable, since I never could think of an officer in the service of the Elector of Hanover in any other light than as a casual acquaintance.

Permit me then to arrange my ideas upon so unexpected a topic, and in less than an hour I will be ready to give you such reasons for the resolution I shall express, as may be satisfactory at least, if not pleasing to you.' So saying, Flora withdrew, leaving Waverley to meditate upon the manner in which she had received his addresses.
Ere he could make up his mind whether to believe his suit had been acceptable or no, Fergus re-entered the apartment.

'What, A LA MORT, Waverley ?' he cried.

'Come down with me to the court, and you shall see a sight worth all the tirades of your romances.

An hundred firelocks, my friend, and as many broadswords, just arrived from good friends; and two or three hundred stout fellows almost fighting which shall first possess them .-- But let me look at you closer--Why, a true Highlander would say you had been blighted by an evil eye .-- Or can it be this silly girl that has thus blanked your spirit ?--Never mind her, dear Edward; the wisest of her sex are fools in what regards the business of life.' 'Indeed, my good friend,' answered Waverley, 'all that I can charge against your sister is, that she is too sensible, too reasonable.' 'If that be all, I ensure you for a louis d'or against the mood lasting four-and-twenty hours.