Why, said she, what can you doubt, when my
master himself assures you of his honour? Ay, said I; but lay your hand
to your heart, Mrs. Jewkes, and tell me, if you yourself believe him.
Yes, said she, to be sure I do. But, said I, what do you call honour?
Why, said she, what does he call honour, think you?--Ruin! shame!
disgrace! said I, I fear.--Pho! pho! said she; if you have any doubt
about it, he can best explain his own meaning:--I'll send him word to
come and satisfy you, if you will.--Horrid creature! said I, all in a
fright--Can'st thou not stab me to the heart? I'd rather thou would'st,
than say such another word!--But I hope there is no such thought of his
coming.
She had the wickedness to say, No, no; he don't intend to come, as I know
of--But if I was he, I would not be long away. What means the woman?
said I.--Mean! said she, (turning it off;) why I mean, I would come, if I
was he, and put an end to all your fears--by making you as happy as you
wish. It is out of his power, said I, to make me happy, great and rich
as he is! but by leaving me innocent, and giving me liberty to go to my
dear father and mother.
She went away soon after, and I ended my letter, in hopes to have an
opportunity to lay it in the appointed place.
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