gence from a friend in your
neighbourhood. I am prepared for the event."

[_A&M_:

Al. (interrupting her, with emotion) Of those arrangements I am
acquainted.
...
Al. I received it from a friend in your neighbourhood.
...
Al. You see, Melissa, I am prepared for the event.]

Alida remained silent. "I have mentioned before," resumed Theodore,
"that whatever may be your decision, no impropriety can attach to you.
I might add, indeed, from various circumstances, and from the
information I possess, I perhaps should not have given you further
trouble on the occasion, had it not been from your own direction. And I
am now willing to retire without further explanation, without giving you
the pain of an express decision, if you think the measure expedient.
Your declaration can only be a matter of form, the consequence of which
I know, and my proposition may save your feelings."

[_A&M_:

(She was silent.)

Al. I have mentioned before, that, whatever be your decision, no
impropriety can attach to you. I might not, indeed, from various
circumstances, and from the information I possess, I perhaps should
not, have given you farther trouble on the occasion, had it not been
from your own direction and appointment. And I am now willing to
retire without further explanation, without giving you the pain of
an express decision, if you think the measure expedient. Your
declaration can only be a matter of form, the consequence of which
I know, and my proposition may save your feelings.]

"No, Theodore," replied she, "my reputation depends on my adherence
to my first determination; justice to yourself and to Bonville also
demand it. After what has passed, I should be considered as acting
capriciously, and inconsistently, should I depart from it. Bonville will
be here to-morrow, and you must consent to stay with us until that time;
the matter shall then be decided." "Yes," said Theodore, "it shall be as
you say, madam. Make your arrangements as you please."

[_A&M_:

Mel. No, Alonzo; my reputation depends on my adherence to my first
determination; justice to yourself and to Beauman, also demand it.
After what has passed, I should be considered as acting capriciously
and inconsistently should I depart from it. Beauman will be here
to-morrow, and----

Al. To-morrow, madam?

Mel. He will be here to-morrow, and you must consent to stay with us
until that time; the matter