Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/170

 The ladies, till now, strangers to his sentiments, sat mute with wonder.

Matilda had covered her face with her handkerchief; when he stopped she withdrew it; it was wet with tears: he snatched it from her trembling hand, kissed it, and thrust it into his bosom. I beseech you, Sir, to rise, (said she, when able to speak) this posture is unbecoming of yourself and me. The resolution I have formed is such as my reason approves, and my particular circumstances call upon me to adopt; I ought to have done it long ago, and blush at my own folly in delaying it." "But, good God! madam, (interrupted the Count) can the ridiculous behaviour, or unjust prejudices of one worthless woman weigh against the affections, the esteem of so many respectable friends? What have we done to deserve being rendered miserable through her envy and malice?" "Could the warmest love, gratitude, and respect, which I owe to every one here, (answered she;) could the arguments of the most condescending kindness, deeply imprinted here, (putting her hand to her heart) could these avail to alter my purpose, I might not be able to withstand your persuasions; but, my Lord, when I have had fortitude sufficient to deny those who are dearer to me than life, you cannot be offended, that 'tis impossible for me to oblige you; and here, in the presence of those who have been witnesses to the honors you have offered me, I release you from every vow, every obligation your too ardent love has conferred on me, and from this hour beseech you to think of me as a friend, zealous for your honor and happiness, for your fame, and the respect you owe to your family; but equally jealous of every duty I owe myself, and therefore determined to see you no more." She rose quickly from her chair, and ran into Mrs. Courtney's dressing-room, giving way to a violent burst of tears. The astonished Count, who had not the power to prevent her departure, threw