Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. II.djvu/354

364 I think, nevertheless, that he did not consider that as my final answer.” I prayed her earnestly not to be too hasty, but to take time. I had the firm belief that she might and would be happy with Hercules, that he was a man who would give a dignity, a calmness, and a charm to life, that he was exactly the fatherly friend and protector that she required. She acknowledged to entertaining feelings for him of esteem and confidence, more than she had felt for any other man; but love, marriage—no, never, never!

I advised her never to say never; to be honest with him, but to leave a decisive answer to the future, and to further acquaintance. And with this the subject was dropped for the present.

In the mean time, it is evident that Hercules does not consider himself to be rejected by her no; and that he does not think of going to the East before he has yet once more propounded his question. His calmness and good humor prevent any want of harmony in our quartette, in consequence of that which has occurred; and this reassures her and places her at her ease. He has, in the mean time, explained himself to me in a manner which has won my esteem and sympathy.

“I love her,” he said, “and I am in that fortunate position, that I can devote to her all that care and attention which she requires. I see that she suffers and that her health requires the air of the south. I can take her to any country she wishes; I have no other desire than to make her happy; and, if the best will on my part, the most faithful attention to her