The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 240: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

210 THE COURT OF LONDON would prompt me to bid you a sorrowful farewell and retire.” ‘“‘ How often am I destined thus to wound your generous feelings by that semblance of suspicion which my manner so unfortunately assumes? ”’ exclaimed Rose, once more proffer- ing her hand, which the artist took with a joy that he could not conceal; but this joy was mingled with so profound a respect that so far from shocking even the most delicate sensibility, it could only serve as a proof of his honest sin- cerity. “Then you accept the proposal which I have made you, Miss Foster?” he said. ‘* Alas! I have no alternative, poor orphan that I am! ”’ she murmuringly answered, her eyes filling with tears. | “The Marchioness of Bellenden will welcome you as cordially and as warmly as if you were a sister or a daughter,” rejoined Woodfall. ‘‘ And now, if you will say farewell to Mrs. Brace — ”’ “ One word,’’ ejaculated Rose Foster, in a low but hurried whisper, as she glanced almost in affright toward the milliner, who was still conversing with Grumley in the window recess; ““T do not wish Mrs. Brace to know whither I am going. This may appear singular to you; but on a future occasion, when we are better acquainted, I will explain my reasons — ’” ‘‘ Never shall I seek to penetrate further into your confi- dence than you may be willing to admit me,” interrupted George Woodfall. ‘‘ The friendship which I proffer you claims no rights, asserts no privileges, imposes no conditions. It is the friendship, the love, the affection which a brother may offer to a sister.” ‘And as such do I accept and reciprocate it,” answered. Rose, profoundly touched by the sense of all that was noble, generous, delicate, and considerate in the language, manner, and conduct of the young artist. COMmiclooks (C(O)