"No, uncle, it shall not be so. I never will submit to such a fate. What circumstances do you refer to?"
"I am in this man's power."
"God be with you, then! But I understand it all. He seeks my fortune, not myself. I would rather he had the whole of it, than become such a thing as to marry that man!"
"Nay, lady, you are of more worth to me than your fortune, large as it is. I have contracted with your uncle for your hand, and he must pay the price," said De Guy.
"He speaks truly, Emily. I have sold you to him," replied Jaspar, vacantly.
Emily was stung to the quick. This remark, she supposed, was in allusion to her alleged condition; and the tears rose to her eyes, while the indignant blood mounted to her cheek.
"Uncle, do not brand your soul with infamy!" she said, quickly.
"What!" exclaimed Jaspar, roused to a burst of passion.
"Be not a villain!" returned Emily, whose good-nature was sorely tried.
"Girl, beard not the lion in his den! I had half relented, but now I feel strong again!" and he rose and tottered to the table, on which his brandy-bottle stood. After taking a deep draught, he reseated himself.