Don't, my dearest life, misinterpret every thing I do. Can you think me so mean and unworthy as to employ a servant to constrain you?--I call him to send to the public-houses, or inns in this town, to inquire after Captain Tomlinson, who may have alighted at some one of them, and be now, perhaps, needlessly adjusting his dress; and I would have him come, were he to be without clothes, God forgive me! for I am stabbed to the heart by your cruelty.
Answer was returned, that neither of my servants was in the way.
Not in the way, said I!--Whither can the dogs be gone?
O Sir! with a scornful air; not far, I'll warrant. One of them was under the window just now; according to order, I suppose, to watch my steps-- but I will do what I please, and go where I please; and that to your face.
God forbid, that I should hinder you in any thing that you may do with safety to yourself!
Now I verily believe that her design was to slip out, in pursuance of the closet-whispering between her and Miss Rawlins; perhaps to Miss Rawlins's house.
She then stept back to Mrs. Moore, and gave her something, which proved to be a diamond ring, and desired her [not whisperingly, but with an air of defiance to me] that that might be a pledge for her, till she defrayed her demands; which she should soon find means to do; having no more money about her than she might have occasion for before she came to an acquaintance's.
Mrs. Moore would have declined taking it; but she would not be denied; and then, wiping her eyes, she put on her gloves--nobody has a right to stop me, said she!--I will go!--Whom should I be afraid of?--Her very question, charming creature! testifying her fear.
I beg pardon, Madam, [turning to Mrs. Moore, and courtesying,] for the trouble I have given you.--I beg pardon, Madam, to Miss Rawlins, [courtesying likewise to her,]--you may both hear of me in a happier hour, if such a one fall to my lot--and God bless you both!--struggling with her tears till she sobbed--and away was tripping.
I stepped to the door: I put it to; and setting my back against it, took her struggling hand--My dearest life! my angel! said I, why will you thus distress me?--Is this the forgiveness which you so solemnly promised?--