You might have invited an explanation from 'E. S.,' under
cover to so-and-so."
"Ladies never think of such things. You know that very well."
"Oh, I don't complain; but I do say that those who love should not be
ready to reproach; they should put a generous construction. You might
have known, and you ought to have known, that I was struggling to find
you, and torn with anguish at my impotence."
"No, no. I am so young and inexperienced, and all my friends against you.
It is they who have parted us."
"How can they part us, if you love me still as I love you?"
"Because for the last fortnight I have not loved you, but hated you, and
doubted you, and thought my only chance of happiness was to imitate your
indifference: and while I was thinking so, another person has come
forward; one whom I have always esteemed: and now, in my pity and
despair, I have given him hopes." She hid her burning face in her hands.
"I see; you are false to me, and therefore you have suspected me of being
false to you."
At that she raised her head high directly. "Edward, you are unjust. Look
in my face, and you may see what I have suffered before I could bring
myself to condemn you.
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