The
deep anxiety she felt for her future fate made her disposed to forget
the past, and in a gentler tone she expressed her forgiveness.
Maxwell imagined that, at last, his star was in the ascendant. His
experience of woman-kind only indicated that he had been too
precipitate, and that the reserve, even the refusal he had received,
were only the accidents of the moment, not the natural expression of an
indifferent heart. His assurance increased as he reflected. He was led
to believe that he might, now that the ice-barrier was removed, be more
unreserved in his wooing. His perseverance had now overcome all
obstacles, and the prize was in his grasp.
"I have a plan to propose," said he, "which will immediately secure to
you all your rights."
"Pray what is it?" asked Emily, eagerly.
"As you have forbidden me to speak of love, I am placed in a very
unfortunate position. In short, you can obtain possession of your estate
by returning as my wife."
This last sentence was said in a whisper, and in a tone of assurance,
as though he felt she would gladly accept the alternative.
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