‘It is a cause that will not please you. Forget, sir, what you have seen.’
‘A father cannot. I entreat you tell me. If you love me, Henrietta, speak.’
‘Sir, sir, I was thinking of the past.’
‘Is it so bitter?’
‘Ah! that I should live!’ said Miss Temple.
‘Henrietta, my own Henrietta, my child, I beseech you tell me all. Something has occurred; something must have occurred to revive such strong feelings. Has—has——— I know not what to say, but so much happens that surprises me; I know, I have heard, that you have seen one who once influenced your feelings, that you have been thrown in unexpected contact with him; he has not—he has not dared——-’
‘Say nothing harshly of him,’ said Miss Temple wildly; ‘I will not bear it, even from you.’
‘My daughter!’
‘Ay! your daughter, but still a woman. Do I murmur? Do I complain? Have I urged you to compromise your honour? I am ready for the sacrifice. My conduct is yours, but my feelings are my own.’
‘Sacrifice, Henrietta! What sacrifice? I have heard only of your happiness; I have thought only of your happiness. This is a strange return.’