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 have been refused, until your father himself sent for me. Blame me not, if I am bold and intrusive; I have a duty to discharge which makes me so."

"I cannot listen to you—I cannot speak to you, Mr Ratcliffe; take my best wishes, and, for God's sake, leave me."

"Tell me only, is it true that this monstrous match is to go forward, and this very night? I heard the servants proclaim it as I was on the great stair-case—I heard the directions given to clear out the chapel."

"Spare me, Mr Ratcliffe; and, from the state in which you see me, judge of the cruelty of these questions."

"Married? to Sir Frederick Langley? and this night? It must not—cannot—shall not be."

"It must be, Mr Ratcliffe, or my father is ruined."

"Ah! I understand," answered Ratcliffe; "and you have sacrificed yourself