Page:The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (emended first edition), Volume 1.djvu/160

148 "I do understand you, perfectly," I said "You think that if you were to accept that trifle from me now, I should presume upon it hereafter; but you are mistaken:—if you will only oblige me by taking it, believe me, I shall build no hopes upon it, and consider this no precedent for future favours:—and it is nonsense to talk about putting yourself under obligations to me when you must know that in such a case the obligation is entirely on my side,—the favour on yours."

"Well then I'll take you at your word," she answered with a most angelic smile, returning the odious money to her purse—"but remember!"

"I will remember—what I have said;—but do not you punish my presumption by withdrawing your friendship entirely from me,—or expect me to atone for it by being more distant than before," said I, extending my hand to take leave, for I was too much excited to remain.

"Well then! let us be as we were," replied she, frankly placing her hand in mine; and