loved daughter, oh! do not say so! For my sake, do not say so,'
exclaimed Mr. Temple. 'I have no wish, I have had no wish, my child, but
for your happiness. Lean upon your father, listen to him, be guided by
his advice. Lord Montfort possesses every quality which can contribute
to the happiness of woman. A man so rarely gifted I never met. There is
not a woman in the world, however exalted her rank, however admirable
her beauty, however gifted her being, who might not feel happy and
honoured in the homage of such a man. Believe me, my dearest daughter,
that this is an union which must lead to happiness. Indeed, were it to
occur, I could die content. I should have no more cares, no more hopes.
All would then have happened that the most sanguine parent, even with
such a child as you, could wish or imagine. We should be so happy! For
his sake, for my sake, for all our sakes, dearest Henrietta, grant his
wish. Believe me, believe me, he is indeed worthy of you.'

'I am not worthy of him,' said Henrietta, in a melancholy voice.

'Ah, Henrietta, who is like you!' exclaimed the fond and excited father.

At this moment a servant announced that Lord Montfort would, with
their permission, wait upon them. Henrietta seemed plunged in thought.
Suddenly she said, 'I cannot rest until this is settled. Papa, leave me
with him a few moments alone.' Mr. Temple retired.

A faint blush rose to the cheek of her visitor when he perceived
that Miss Temple was alone. He seated himself at her side, but he was
unusually constrained.

'My dear Lord Montfort,' said Miss Temple,' calmly, 'I have to speak
upon a painful subject, but I have undergone so much suffering, that I
shall not shrink from this. Papa has informed me this morning that you
have been pleased to pay me the highest compliment that a man can pay a
woman. I wish to thank you for it. I wish to acknowledge it in terms the
strongest and the warmest I can use. I am sensible of the honour, the
high honour that you have intended me. It is indeed an honour of which
any woman might be proud. You have offered me a heart of which I know
the worth. No one can appreciate the value of your character better
than myself. I do justice, full justice, to your virtues, your
accomplishments, your commanding talents, and your generous soul. Except
my father, there is no one who holds so high a place in my affection
as yourself. You have been my kind and true friend; and a kind and true
friendship, f