'Dearest, best Carl! Noblest of men! You restore me to freedom--you restore me to life! The Almighty has heard my prayers! You do not know how earnestly I have prayed that you might find me detestable.'
'Therein your prayers have not been heard, Jettè,' said I. 'If you could have loved me, I could not have wished a better fate. I love you and Hannè much more than you think.' I felt that every word I had just spoken was positive truth. Jettè wrung my hand.
'You have removed a mountain from my heart,' she replied. 'Would that I could thank you as you deserve!'
I was quite ashamed of all the thanks she poured out, and all the gratitude she expressed. It is an unspeakable pleasure to promote the happiness of one's fellow-creatures; it is an agreeable feeling which I would not exchange for any other.
When the first burst of joy was over, Jettè consulted with me how it would be best to break the matter to her father. I told her of his good opinion of Gustav, and built upon it the brightest hopes.
Jettè shook her head. 'He will insist that I shall keep my promise,' said she, mournfully. 'He will not relinquish a plan which he has cherished for so many years. How dreadful it is for me to disappoint him!'
'Very well, take me.'
'Oh! do not jest with me, dear Carl. My only dependence is on you.'
'I shall take my departure immediately, and leave a letter renouncing my engagement to you. That will go far to help you.'
'For Heaven's sake, stay! You are the only one who can speak to him,' said she. 'You have already acquired much influence over him.'