Continue that assertion and no
one can force you into marriage. I have ridden nearly twenty-four
hours to be here in time and to make some return for your great
kindness, but you were so brave that you scarcely needed help."
"Oh! I did need it. I was so frightened and so desperate that I was
almost ready to faint. My cousin is one who WILL have his own way.
He has never been denied a thing in his life, I should have been
taken away at least and then--oh, I just felt as if on the edge of a
precipice. It seems dreadful that I should be speaking so of my
kindred to a stranger and enemy--"
"Enemy! Far from it. A friend. Have you not protected my life and
liberty? Miss Baron, I give you my sacred word, I swear to you by my
mother's memory to be as loyal to you as if you were my own sister.
Young as I am, perhaps I can advise you and help you, for it is
indeed clear that you need a friend."
"I cannot tell you what relief your words bring, for, inexperienced
as I am, something assures me that I can trust you.
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