Char. You startle me—But tell me—I must be answered first. Is it from honour you speak this? or do you wish me changed?
Lew. Heaven knows I do not. Life and my Charlotte are so connected, that to lose one, were loss of both. Yet for a promise, though given in love, and meant for binding; if time, or accident, or reason should change opinion, with Me that promise has no force.
Char. Why, now I'll answer you. Your doubts are prophecies—I am really changed.
Lew. Indeed!
Char. I could torment You now, as You have Me; but 'tis not in my nature. That I am changed I own; for what at first was inclination, is now grown reason in me; and from that reason, had I the world—nay, were I poorer than the poorest, and You too wanting bread; with but a hovel to invite me to—I would be yours, and happy.
Lew. My kindest Charlotte! (Seizing her hand) Thanks are too poor for this, and words too weak! But if we love so, why should our union be delayed?
Char. For happier times. The present are too wretched.
Lew. I may have reasons, that press it now.
Char. What reasons?
Lew. The strongest reasons; unanswerable ones.