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 even though I deemed it indispensable to my honour to exact a total separation. Had I confided to you my fearful secret,—had you yourself aided the abolition of my shackles, should I not, in a situation so delicate, so critical, have fixed an eternal barrier between us,—or have sacrificed the fame of both to the most wounding of calumnies? Ah no! from the instant that my heart interfered,—that I was conscious of a new motive that urged my wish of liberation,—I have held it my duty, I have felt it my future happiness, to avoid,—to fear,—to fly you!—"

"I was most favoured, then, it seems," replied Harleigh, with a smile of rapture, "when I thought you most inexorable? I must thank you for your rejections, your avoidance, your implacable, immoveable coldness?"

"Reverse, else, the medal," cried she, gaily, "and see whether the impression will be more to your taste!"

"Loveliest Miss Ellis! most beloved