"Eliza, my dear, you have always been a kind, dear girl to me, and I have
resolved to repay your constancy and devotion by making you my bride in a
few days; but first I must demand of you a service, an important service.
Can I depend on you?"

"You know you can; let me know how I can aid you in such a manner as will
insure me your hand, and I will serve you unto death."

"Bravely spoken! Just what I expected of your devoted love! But the service
I shall require will sorely try that love!"

"Then let me prove its strength."

"Eliza, do you doubt my truth? my sincerity?"

"Have I not given you stronger proof than a thousand asseverations, or the
strongest oaths, that my confidence is unbounded? Without this trust, I
should be wretched beyond endurance!"

"I am glad to hear you talk so. Still I fear you will not consent to serve
me as I shall wish."

"Try me and see."

"Are you of a _jealous_ disposition, my love?"

"Jealous? What a question for _you_ to ask!"

"It may appear strange, yet I would be pleased to have you answer me truly,
and without reserve. Tell me your real sentiments without reserve or