Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 4).djvu/230

 and as such entitled to be provided for by his heir."

Her astonishing assurance for a moment disconcerted both Gentlemen; but Ferdinand recovering, and looking on her with some indignation:

"The provision you so rudely demand was once offered, when I was less able to serve you, myself then supported by the bounty of a friend; but you will remember it was offered to you conditionally. Your birth does not entitle you to make any demands upon me; but the respect I owe to the memory of my father will incline me to do it, if you deserve it."

"I scorn the idea of an obligation," said she, "I come to claim my right, and to tell you, that secure as you think yourself of the title and estates you have taken possession of, I can annihilate your claims in a moment, if you dispute mine."

"Charlotte, since that is your name, do not injure yourself by an insolent asperity