But, however, the conceited wretch chose to interpret my amiability of temper his own way, and at length presumed upon my indulgence so far--what do you think ?--he actually made me an offer!' 'And you--' 'I proudly drew myself up, and with the greatest coolness expressed my astonishment at such an occurrence, and hoped he had seen nothing in my conduct to justify his expectations.

You should have _seen_ how his countenance fell! He went perfectly white in the face.

I assured him that I esteemed him and all that, but could not possibly accede to his proposals; and if I did, papa and mamma could never be brought to give their consent.' '"But if they could," said he, "would yours be wanting ?" '"Certainly, Mr.Hatfield," I replied, with a cool decision which quelled all hope at once.

Oh, if you had seen how dreadfully mortified he was--how crushed to the earth by his disappointment! really, I almost pitied him myself.
'One more desperate attempt, however, he made.

After a silence of considerable duration, during which he struggled to be calm, and I to be grave--for I felt a strong propensity to laugh--which would have ruined all--he said, with the ghost of a smile--"But tell me plainly, Miss Murray, if I had the wealth of Sir Hugh Meltham, or the prospects of his eldest son, would you still refuse me?
Answer me truly, upon your honour." '"Certainly," said I.