Page:The Wanderer (1814 Volume 2).pdf/384

 an intercourse which, in the eye of that world, and of those prejudices, those connections, to which you appeal, would be regarded as dangerous, if not injurious."

"What an inconceivable position!" cried Harleigh, passionately; "how incomprehensible a state of things! I must admire, must respect the decree that tortures me, though profoundly in the dark with regard to its motives, its purposes,—I had nearly said, its apologies! for not trifling must be the cause that can instigate such determined concealment, where an interest is excited so warm, so sincere, and, would you trust it, honourable as mine!"

"You distress, you grieve me," cried Ellis, with an emotion which she could not repress, "by these affecting, yet fruitless conflicts! Could I speak can you think I would so perseveringly be silent?"

"I think, nay I am convinced, that you can do nothing but what is dictated