But his cunning is still predominant. Having conceived the possibility of this marriage, the accomplishment of it is now become his ruling passion, and has for a moment subjected avarice itself. He neglects no motive which he thinks may influence Sir Arthur, not even threatening; though his language is couched in all the art of apparent kindness and adulation. His letter however has produced its effect on my father, as you will perceive by the following dialogue, which was begun by Sir Arthur. What think you of this proposal, Anna? I ought rather to ask what are your thoughts on the subject, sir. I can scarcely tell. I own it does not seem to me quite so unreasonable as I should once have supposed it; that is as far as relates to me. But if you should have conceived any partiality for Mr. Clifton, I should then-- Excuse me, sir, for interrupting you, but Mr. Clifton is at present wholly out of the question. Were it in my power, which I fear it is not, to do him any service, I should be as desirous of doing it now as ever; but I can never more think of him as a husband. Are you so very determined? I am; and I hope, sir, my determination is not offensive to you? I cannot say at present that it is; for not to mention that I think very well of young Mr. Henley, I own the affair of the anonymous letter was a very improper and strange proceeding. Your aunt Wenbourne and Lord Fitz-Allen indeed seem to doubt it; but, according to the account which you and Mr. Henley give, I think they have no foundation for their doubts. The behaviour of Mr. Clifton, without the letter, would have been quite sufficient to have fixed my determination. What behaviour? The proof he gave of deceit and depravity of principle, by the manner in which he endeavoured to seduce me. When was that? The very day on which Frank arrived. Endeavoured to seduce you? Yes. Are you certain of the truth of what you say? He proceeded too far, and explained himself too openly for me to be mistaken. Seduce you!--Then you have entirely given up all thoughts of him? All thoughts of marrying him I have most certainly. And what is your opinion of Mr. Henley? What can it be, sir? Are there two opinions concerning him? And if I were blind to his virtues, for whose safety he has been so often and so ardently active, who should do him justice? I own, Anna, I have often thought you had some love for him, and I am tempted to think so still. Love in the sense in which you understand it I have carefully suppressed, because till now I supposed it incompatible with duty and virtue; but I acknowledge I begin to doubt; and even to suppose that his view of the subject has been more rational and true than mine; and he thinks it is our duty to form a union, for which he owns he has an ardent wish. Yes, he has honestly told me all that passed between you; and his sincerity pleased me--But every branch of our family would certainly be against such a match. I suppose so.