'I am quite puzzled by you both,' said Molly..'The only thing I do know is, that we ought not to be standing here at this time of evening, and that Cynthia and I shall go home directly.If you want to talk to Miss Kirkpatrick, Mr Preston, why don't you come to my father's house, and ask to see her openly, and like a gentleman.'
'I am perfectly willing,' said he; 'I shall only be too glad to explain to Mr Gibson on what terms I stand in relation to her.If I have not done it sooner, it is because I have yielded to her wishes.'
'Pray, pray don't.Molly - you don't know all - you don't know anything about it; you mean well and kindly, I know, but you are only making mischief.
I am quite well enough to walk, do let us go; I will tell you all about it when we are at home.' She took Molly's arm and tried to hasten her away;but Mr Preston followed, talking as he walked by their side.
'I do not know what you will say at home; but can you deny that you are my promised wife? Can you deny that it has only been at your earnest request that I have kept the engagement secret so long?' He was unwise - Cynthia stopped, and turned at bay.
'Since you will have it out, since I must speak here, I own that what you say is literally true; that when I was a neglected girl of sixteen, you - whom I believed to be a friend, lent me money at my need, and made me give you a promise of marriage.'
'Made you!' said he, laying an emphasis on the first word.