Gilbert, it would be better if we were both free; better if you could leave England without any tie to weigh you down with anxieties when you are out yonder, and will have so much occasion for perfect freedom of mind." "Marian!" "O, pray, pray don't think me ungrateful or unmindful of your goodness to me.

I am only anxious for your happiness.

I am not steady enough, or fixed enough, in my mind.

I am not worthy of all the thought and care you have given me." "Marian, have I done anything to forfeit your love ?" "O no, no." "Then why do you say these things to me?
Do you want to break my heart ?" "Would it break your heart if I were to recall my promise, Gilbert ?" "Yes, Marian," he answered gravely, drawing her suddenly to him, and looking into her face with earnest scrutinising eyes; "but if you do not love me, if you cannot love me--and God knows how happy I have been in the belief that I had won your love long ago--let the word be spoken.

I will bear it, my dear, I will bear it." "O no, no," she cried, shocked by the dead whiteness of his face, and bursting into tears.