Arabella, extremely discomposed at this behaviour, struggled to free her hand from her uncle; and giving him a look, on which disdain and fear were visibly painted—
Unhand me, sir, said she, and force me not to forget the respect I owe you as my uncle, by treating you with a severity such uncommon insolence demands.
Sir Charles, letting go her hand in a great surprise at the word insolent, which she had used, asked her if she knew to whom she was speaking?
Questionless, I am speaking to my uncle, replied she; and it is with great regret I see myself obliged to make use of expressions no way conformable to the respect I bear that sacred character.
And, pray, madam, said Sir Charles, somewhat softened by this speech, who is it that obliges you to lay aside that respect you seem to acknowledge is due to your uncle?
You do, sir, replied she; and it is with infinite sorrow that I behold you assuming a character unbecoming the brother of my father.
This is pretty plain, indeed, interrupted Sir Charles: but pray, madam, inform me what it is you complain of.
You questionless know much better than I can tell you, replied Arabella, blushing, the offence I accuse you of; nor is it proper for me to mention what it would not become me to suffer.
Zounds! cried Sir Charles, no longer able to suppress his growing anger: this is enough to make a man mad.
Ah! I beseech you, sir, resumed Arabella, suffer not an unfortunate and ill-judged passion to be the bane of all your happiness and virtue. Recall your wandering thoughts; reflect upon the dishonour you will bring upon yourself by persisting in such unjustifiable sentiments.