"I think
you know as well as I do that it is my father's wish that has made me
change."
"So long as you change not again, dear, I am of all men the happiest. Yes,
I know 'tis Sir John's wooing that won you, not mine. And that I have
still to conquer your heart, though your hand is promised me. Yet I do not
despair of being loved in as full measure as I love. My faith is strong in
the power of an honest affection."
"You may at least be sure of my honesty. I profess nothing but the desire
to be your true and obedient wife----"
"Obedient! You shall be my empress."
"No, no. I have no wish to rule. I desire only to make my father happy, and
you too, sir, if I can."
"Ah, my soul, that is so easy for you. You have but to let me live in your
dear company. I doubt I would rather be miserable with you than happy with
any other woman. Ill-use me if you will; play Zantippe, and I will be more
submissive than Socrates. But you are all mildness--perfect Christian,
perfect woman. You cannot miss being perfect as wife--and----"
Another word trembled on his lips; but he checked himself lest he should
offend, and the speech ended in a sob.
"My Angela, my angel!"
He took her to his heart, and kissed the fair brow, cold under his
passionate kisses.
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