"Edward, are you crazed?" exclaimed the sister.
"Far from it, Clara. I was never more in my right mind than I am now; and never more in earnest. I have for some time wanted to talk to you on this very subject, but no fitting opportunity before occurred."
"About what subject, brother? I am all amazement!"
"About my preference for Miss Hudson."
"Preference! Edward!"
"No, not preference—regard."
"Regard?"
"No.—Love."
Astonishment kept the sister mute for some moments. Then she said, appealingly—
"Surely, Edward, you do not think of subjecting your family to a deep humiliation."