The question is natural. My answer will not seem so natural, but it is none the less true for that. I liked her very much.
MELLEFONT.
Such impartiality delights me. But would it be possible for him who knew how to appreciate the charms of a Marwood to make a bad choice?
MARWOOD.
You ought to have spared me this flattery, Mellefont, if it is flattery. It is not in accordance with our intention to forget each other.
MELLEFONT.
You surely do not wish me to facilitate this intention by rudeness? Do not let our separation be of an ordinary nature. Let us break with each other as people of reason who yield to necessity; without bitterness, without anger, and with the preservation of a certain degree of respect, as behoves our former intimacy.
MARWOOD.
Former intimacy! I do not wish to be reminded of it. No more of it. What must be, must, and it matters little how. But one word more about Arabella. You will not let me have her?