_Char._ You startle me--But tell me--I must be answered first. Is it
from honour you speak this? or do you wish me changed?

_Lew._ Heaven knows I do not. Life and my Charlotte are so
connected, that to lose one, were loss of both. Yet for a promise,
though given in love, and meant for binding; if time, or accident,
or reason should change opinion, with Me that promise has no force.

_Char._ Why, now I'll answer you. Your doubts are prophecies--I am
really changed.

_Lew._ Indeed!

_Char._ I could torment You now, as You have Me; but 'tis not in my
nature. That I am changed I own; for what at first was inclination,
is now grown reason in me; and from that reason, had I the
world--nay, were I poorer than the poorest, and You too wanting
bread; with but a hovel to invite me to--I would be yours, and happy.

_Lew._ My kindest Charlotte! (_Seizing her hand_) Thanks are too
poor for this, and words too weak! But if we love so, why should our
union be delayed?

_Char._ For happier times. The present are too wretched.

_Lew._ I may have reasons, that press it now.

_Char._ What reasons?