Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/118

 favours I can never return; but my mind tells me you will one day be repaid for all;—yes, I have a pre-sentiment I am no base-born unworthy offspring; one day, Sir, I may yet have the power to prove my sense of the obligations you reproach me with, and it will be the happiest moment of my life." She had spoken with such vehemence as precluded interruption; he was surprised; "You are warm, Matilda, (said he, very calmly.) "I cannot help it, Sir, you have made me desperate; I will seek peace and quietness in a convent. You will not permit me to accompany the Marchioness, (said she, softening, and tears running down her cheeks) and I think I owe you that respect not to go without your leave; therefore I have no other asylum but a convent to hope for." "Have I not a house, Matilda?" "Yes, Sir; I might have resided in my uncle's house, but I cannot, with propriety, in your's, when I have no such claim to boast of." She arose and rang the bell. "Desire the Marquis and his lady to favour me with their company." When the servant retired, "You are then determined, madam?" "I am, Sir." "Then so am I, and you may take the consequence."

Her friends now entered; after they were seated Matilda spoke, "I took the liberty to request your presence, that you might be witness to my declaration for the last time, that I never will be the wife of Mr. Weimar, nor without his consent, unless commanded by my parents, (alas! how unlikely at present that hope) never to marry any other man. It would be the joy of my heart to have been permitted to accept the honour of the protection you have offered me, but as I fear that cannot be, I will retire into a convent, 'tis the only place of refuge for a poor unfortunate, friendless being, without family, friends, or even a name." She wept aloud, pronouncing those last words. The Marchioness sympathized with her, and addressing Mr. Weimar, "Come, Sir, (said she) let me prevail on you to accede to our request, we ask it as a favour; permit Miss Matilda to be in our care