This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

( 37 )

Juliet; but Harleigh would not be silenced.

"And here, where you have condescended to call me your protector,—your destined protector!—a title which gives me claims that never while I live shall be relinquished!—claims which not even yourself, now, can have power to recall—"

"Hear me! hear me!—" interrupted, but vainly, the pleading Juliet; Harleigh, uncontrouled, went on.

"Initiate me, without delay, in the duties of my office. Against whom, and against what may I be your protector? You have called me, too, your guardian-angel; Oh suffer me to call you mine! Consent to that sweet reciprocation, which blends felicity with every care of life! which animates our virtues by our happiness! which secures the performance of every duty, by making every duty an enjoyment!"

A frequent "Alas! alas!" was all that Juliet could gain time to utter,