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for abruptness—for precipitancy—for—for—in short, you understand me. I see by the glance of her eye, that Miss Frankland understands me to be in the most awkward situation that a man of feeling can be placed in.

And is it on that account the more likely to embarrass Sir John Crofton?

That sarcastic question does me the greatest injustice, (Laying his hand on his heart.) Could you read the real sentiments which are here embosomed, you would know how ardent, how disinterested, how unalterable is that attachment to your cruel self which you seem so inclined to sport with.

In that case I should certainly know it, and regulate my gratitude accordingly.

What frigid formal words may come from the fairest lips on the most interesting subjects! Gratitude! Oh, Miss Frankland! you know that it is something far more precious than gratitude which I would gladly earn from you by the whole affections of my heart, the whole devotion of my life and of my fortune.