"I knew it could not be: my child, my own Calantha, will never act with cruelty towards those who love her. Say only the single words: "I will not leave you," and I will trust you without one fear." "I will not leave you!" said Calantha, weeping bitterly, and throwing herself upon her aunt's bosom. "If it break my heart, I will never leave you, unless driven from these doors!" Little more was said by either of them. Mrs. Seymour was deeply affected, and so was Calantha.
After she had quitted her, not an hour had elapsed, when Sir Richard, without preparation, entered. His presence stifled every good emotion—froze up every tear. Calantha stood before him with a look of contempt and defiance, he could not bear. Happily for her, he was called away, and she retired early to bed. "That wife of Avondale's has the greatest share of impudence," said the Admiral, addressing the
