22
"Last night, when dancing on the green, a letter fell from your pocket. I took it up unobserved and perused its contents: from which I learned that you were in disguise."
"And the rest your fears supplied?"--"Even so."
"Then, truly, you had reason for suspicion-But come, let us disclose our mutual passion to your parents. Their approbation gained, we then will name the happy day."
"May I entreat a moment's conversation, sir?"
"Aye, my good sir, an hour's, replied Mr Benley.
"Thus it is, sir. Your daughter has beauty, worth, and innocence. I sought, I gained her regard; and it is now our mutual wish to exchange our holy vows, and sign a contract of eternal love."
"How say you, Charlotte? In this, does Mr Trueman speak the wishes of your heart?"
"He has my free consent, sir, to what he now proposes."
"The request is somewhat sudden. It is rude. I have found you worthy, and your merit deserves the treasure which it seeks: but a tender regard for the happiness of my child forbids me to give too precipate answer; and some little inquiry is necessary to--"
"True, it is a matter that requires the most serious consideration; and the reluctance which you feel, gives additional lustre to your character. An accident has revealed me to the fair object of my wishes. I threw aside disguise, and confessed myself the happy Belfont."
