"We are not masters of our own affections. From the hour
in which I first saw you I have loved you--loved you in spite of
myself. I will admit that your life has not been that which I would
have chosen for the woman I love; and that to remember your past
history is pain to me. But, in spite of all, I ask you to be my wife;
and it shall be the business of my future life to banish from your
remembrance every sorrow and every humiliation that you have suffered
in the past. Say that you will be my wife, Paulina. I love you as few
women are loved. I am rich, and have the power to remove you far from
every association that is painful to you. Tell me that I may be the
guardian of your future existence."
Paulina contemplated her lover for a few moments with singular
earnestness. She was deeply impressed by his generous devotion, and she
could not but compare this self-sacrificing love with the base
selfishness of Reginald Eversleigh's conduct.
"You do not ask me if I can return your affection," she said, after
that earnest look. "You offer to raise me from degradation and poverty,
and you demand nothing in return."
"No, Paulina," replied Douglas; "I would not make a _bargain_ with the
woman I love. I know that you have not yet learned to love me, and yet
I do not fear for the future, if you consent to become my wife. True
love, such as mine, rarely fails to win its reward, sooner or later.
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