Such a circumstance could only exasperate farther, and, when he ceased, the colour rose into her cheeks, and she said: "In such cases as this, it is, I believe, the established mode to express a sense of obligation for the sentiments avowed, however unequally they may be returned.

It is natural that obligation should be felt, and if I could _feel_ gratitude, I would now thank you.

But I cannot--I have never desired your good opinion, and you have certainly bestowed it most unwillingly.

I am sorry to have occasioned pain to anyone.

It has been most unconsciously done, however, and I hope will be of short duration.