Mothers and Daughters; A Comedy, in Five Acts (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1844 Excerpt: ... leave me thus. I am afraid you think me the wild, capricious fellow my uncle has described. I have faults enough, Heaven knows but insincerity, at least, is not one of them. If I have offended you by presuming to express an interest in your happiness--MABEL TREVOR. Indeed, I am not offended, I am grateful; but, Mr. Sandford, this pains me--I--SANDFORD. Y ou wrong yourself and me. Why should I struggle any longer to suppress the feelings you have inspired. They must have utterance or they will destroy me. Mabel (breathlessly while he is speaking). Ah --spare me--I entreat--SANDFORD. Before I met you my thoughts were as free as birds, my feet were winged, I lived like air, as liberal and volatile. But from day to day, as I came here and saw you, I felt a change pass over my spirit. For the first time in my life, I grew sad and began to think solitude pleasant. What was that change, Mabel? The spell is broken I have dared to speak aloud a name, which I have hitherto hardly trusted myself to breathe in whispers to my heart. Mabel, what was that change? 'Twas love. Mabel (who has been violently agitated throughout, sinks into a chair). Oh Heaven. Sandford (after a pause). What does this silence mean? She turns from me--she loves another. Mabel (in a low broken voice). Recall what you have said--let it he forgotten at hoth sides--for your sake, Mr. Sandford--recall it--recall it--SANDFORD. For my sake? Then your affections are already--Mabel Trevor (starting up). Oh --no--not that. SANDFORD. Why do you turn from me, Mabel? In charity, relieve me from this terrible suspense--one word MABEL TREVOR. What should that word be? I appeal to your own reason. Do not think me insensible of the honour you design me; but think of your circumstances and of mine. Think--t...