Jane.Oh, no! oh! think not that I ask you for that. Too well I know that I am unworthy of it. I will not raise my eyes so high. I will not abuse forgiveness to that degree. The poor carver Gilbert will not mismate himself with the Countess of Waterford. No, I will follow you, I will love you, I will never leave you. I will sleep at your feet by day, at your door by night. I will watch you work, I will help you, I will give you whatever you need. I will be to you something less than a sister, something more than a dog. And, Gilbert, if you marry,—for it will please God that you shall find at last a pure and spotless woman, who is worthy of you,—if you marry, and if your wife is kind and is willing, I will be your wife's handmaid. If you do not marry, I will stay with you, I will be very meek and resigned, as you will see; and if people think evil upon seeing me with you, why, they may think what they choose. I have nothing to blush for now, you see! I am a lost girl!
Gilbert [falling at her feet.]You are an angel! you are my wife!
Jane.Your wife! you forgive, then, only as God forgives, by purifying! Oh! Heaven bless you, Gilbert, for placing this crown on my brow!
[Gilbert rises and strains her to his heart. While they are in close embrace, Joshua goes to them and takes Jane's hand.
Joshua.'Tis Joshua, Lady Jane.
Gilbert.Dear Joshua!
Joshua.A moment since, you did not recognize me.
Jane.Ah! it was because I had to begin with him.
[Joshua kisses her hands.
