Jerry retained her soft hand lovingly, and, taking heart of grace therefrom, said,
'I shall speak of this matter again, Laura. I see that I quite deserve your refusal.'
'Why?'
'Because I spoke too soon—too abruptly.'
'Believe me, dear Jerry, my answer is a final one. I could never bestow on you the love a wife should feel for her husband.'
'That would come in time—after marriage, Laura.'
'No, it cannot be; leave me and forget me.'
'That is impossible. I shall never, while life lasts, forget you.'
Mrs. Trelawney felt an inclination to laugh again. She controlled her lips, but her half-closed eyes were sparkling with a smile.
'I am unworthy the regard I have won. Thrust me from your thoughts, Jerry, and forget me, I pray you, forget me,' said she, emphatically, as she again withdrew her hand.