’I was speaking to you then as to a cousin who might regard me as an elder brother.  No contact with legions of Melmottes could make you other to me than the woman on whom my heart has settled.  Even were you in truth disgraced could disgrace touch one so pure as you it would be the same.  I love you so well that I have already taken you for better or for worse.  I cannot change.  My nature is too stubborn for such changes.  Have you a word to say to comfort me?’ She turned away her head, but did not answer him at once.  ’Do you understand how much I am in need of comfort?’

‘You can do very well without comfort from me.’

’No, indeed.  I shall live, no doubt...