You need not be afraid of me," he added, as Isabelle recoiled when he
made one step forward, and tried to open the window with her trembling
bands, as if she meant to throw herself out in case of his coming any
nearer; "see, I will stay where I am. I will not touch you, not even the
hem of your garment, so great is my respect for you, charming Isabelle!
I do not ask anything more than that you will deign to suffer my
presence here a little longer now, and permit me to pay my court to you,
lay siege to your heart, and wait patiently until it surrenders
itself to me freely and of its own accord, as it surely will. The most
respectful lover could not do more."
"Spare me this useless pursuit, my lord," pleaded Isabelle, "and I will
reward you with the warmest gratitude; but love you I cannot, now or
ever."
"You have neither father, brother, husband, or affianced lover,"
persisted Vallombreuse, "to forbid the advances of a gallant gentleman,
who seeks only to please and serve you. My sincere homage is surely not
insulting to you; why do you repulse me so? Oh! you do not dream what a
splendid prospect would open out before you if you would but yield to my
entreaties. I would surround you with everything that is beautiful and
dainty, luxurious and rare.
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