You think—?
Once more bring me to the proof. I feel a conscious [Again you make me a braggart.] a virtuous certainty.
In opposition to the whole world, its prepossessions, reproofs, revilings, persecutions, and contempt?
The picture is terrifying, but ought not to be, and I answer yes; in opposition to and in defiance of them all.
Then—You are my wife!
How?
Be firm! Start not from the truth! You are my wife! Ask yourself the meaning of the word. Can set forms and ceremonies unite mind to mind? And if not they, what else? What but community of sentiments, similarity of principles, reciprocal sympathies, and an equal ardour for and love of truth? Can it be denied?
It cannot.
You are my wife, and I have a right to the privileges of a husband!
A right?