Charlotte is not dead." "Then she is very ill, else why did she not come?
But I will go to her: the chaise is still at the door: let me go instantly to the dear girl.
If I was ill, she would fly to attend me, to alleviate my sufferings, and cheer me with her love." "Be calm, my dearest Lucy, and I will tell you all," said Mr.Temple.
"You must not go, indeed you must not; it will be of no use." "Temple," said she, assuming a look of firmness and composure, "tell me the truth I beseech you.

I cannot bear this dreadful suspense.

What misfortune has befallen my child?
Let me know the worst, and I will endeavour to bear it as I ought." "Lucy," replied Mr.Temple, "imagine your daughter alive, and in no danger of death: what misfortune would you then dread ?" "There is one misfortune which is worse than death.

But I know my child too well to suspect--" "Be not too confident, Lucy." "Oh heavens!" said she, "what horrid images do you start: is it possible she should forget--" "She has forgot us all, my love; she has preferred the love of a stranger to the affectionate protection of her friends.
"Not eloped ?" cried she eagerly.
Mr.Temple was silent.
"You cannot contradict it," said she.

"I see my fate in those tearful eyes.