"Who has been telling you this?"
"Answer my question."
"The best. You know it. Have you not been promised to me since—since—"
"Well, do you wish me to redeem my promise? I am ready to marry you now—to-day, if you please. Ruined as you are, reckless, unprincipled, gambler—I know not what—"
"That's as well. But I am obliged to you; I will not trespass on your good-nature. I shall have enough to do to keep myself."
"We might go to a colony."
"I can fancy you in the bush!"
"Anything would be preferable to the false, hollow life I lead. I want rest. I could pray for it. I long to lay my head peacefully where—"
"Wherever you please. Try Mr. Purling's shoulder. You have my full permission."