Pagina 393 de 817

In spite of her deeply-rooted dislike, she could not be

insensible to the compliment of such a man's affection, and

though her intentions did not vary for an instant, she was at

first sorry for the pain he was to receive; till roused to

resentment by his subsequent language, she lost all compassion in

anger. She tried, however, to compose herself to answer him with

patience, when he should have done. He concluded with

representing to her the strength of that attachment which in

spite of all his endeavours he had found impossible to conquer;

and with expressing his hope that it would now be rewarded by her

acceptance of his hand. As he said this she could easily see that

he had no doubt of a favourable answer. He spoke of apprehension

and anxiety, but his countenance expressed real security. Such a

circumstance could only exasperate farther; and when he ceased

the colour rose into her cheeks and she said,--