You'll not go, then?
kind, sweet, good Catherine! And perhaps you _will_ consent--and he'll let me die with you!' My young lady, on witnessing his intense anguish, stooped to raise him.
The old feeling of indulgent tenderness overcame her vexation, and she grew thoroughly moved and alarmed.
'Consent to what ?' she asked.

'To stay! tell me the meaning of this strange talk, and I will.

You contradict your own words, and distract me! Be calm and frank, and confess at once all that weighs on your heart.

You wouldn't injure me, Linton, would you?
You wouldn't let any enemy hurt me, if you could prevent it?
I'll believe you are a coward, for yourself, but not a cowardly betrayer of your best friend.' 'But my father threatened me,' gasped the boy, clasping his attenuated fingers, 'and I dread him--I dread him! I _dare_ not tell!' 'Oh, well!' said Catherine, with scornful compassion, 'keep your secret: _I'm_ no coward.

Save yourself: I'm not afraid!' Her magnanimity provoked his tears: he wept wildly, kissing her supporting hands, and yet could not summon courage to speak out.