Matilda nimbly opened the door and cried, “Mr. Rushbrook, I am come to comfort you.”
“That you have always done,” said he, rising in rapture to receive her, even in the midst of all his sadness.
“What is it you want?” said she. “What have you asked of my father that he has denied you?”
“I have asked for that,” replied he, “which is dearer to me than my life.”
“Be satisfied then,” returned she, “for you shall have it.”
“Dear Matilda! it is not in your power to bestow.”
“But he has told me it shall be in my power; and has desired me to give, or to refuse it you, at my own pleasure.”
“O Heavens!” cried Rushbrook in transport, “Has he?”
“He has indeed—before Mr. Sandford and Miss Woodley. Now tell me what you petitioned for?”
“I asked him,” cried Rushbrook, trembling, “for a wife.”