If there is any protection in the world that you can turn to, less doubtful than mine, I suppose I ought to say no more, and leave the house.

But if there should be none, surely I am not so very selfish in asking you to take your chance with me?
I honestly believe that I shall have little difficulty, with ordinary caution, in escaping from pursuit, and finding a safe home somewhere to begin life in again with new interests.

Will you share it with me, Alicia?
I can try no fresh persuasions---I have no right, perhaps, in my present situation to have addressed so many to you already." Her other arm stole round my neck; she laid her cheek against mine, and whispered-- "Be kind to me, Frank--I have nobody in the world who loves me but you!" I felt her tears on my face; my own eyes moistened as I tried to answer her.

We sat for some minutes in perfect silence--without moving, without a thought beyond the moment.

The rising of the wind, and the splashing of the rain outside were the first sounds that stirred me into action again.
I summoned my resolution, rose from the sofa, and in a few hasty words told Alicia what I proposed for the next day, and mentioned the hour at which I would come in the morning.