Edmund proceeded. “My friend is so particularly circumstanced that he
cannot at present with propriety ask for Lady Emma’s favour; but as soon
as he has gained a cause that is yet in suspence, he will openly declare
his pretensions, and if he is unsuccessful, he will then condemn himself
to eternal silence.”
Lady Emma knew not what to think of this declaration; she hoped, she
feared, she meditated; but her attention was too strongly excited to
be satisfied without some gratification; After a pause, she pursued the
subject.
“And this friend of yours, sir, of what degree and fortune is he?”
Edmund smiled; but, commanding his emotion, he replied, “His birth is noble, his degree and fortune uncertain.”
Her countenance fell, she sighed; he proceeded. “It is utterly impossible,” said he, “for any man of inferior degree to aspire to Lady Emma’s favour; her noble birth, the dignity of her beauty and virtues, must awe and keep at their proper distance, all men of inferior degree and merit; they may admire, they may revere; but they must not presume to approach too near, lest their presumption should meet with its punishment.”
“Well, sir,” said she, suddenly; “and so this friend of yours has commissioned you to speak in his behalf?”
“He has, Madam.”
“Then I must tell you, that I think his assurance is very great, and yours not much less.”
“I am sorry for that, Madam.”
“Tell him, that I shall reserve my heart and hand for the man to whom my father shall bid me give them.”
“Very well, Lady; I am certain my lord loves you too well to dispose of them against your inclination.”