Page 227 of 817

To such perseverance in wilful self-deception Elizabeth would

make no reply, and immediately and in silence withdrew;

determined, that if he persisted in considering her repeated

refusals as flattering encouragement, to apply to her father,

whose negative might be uttered in such a manner as must be

decisive, and whose behaviour at least could not be mistaken for

the affectation and coquetry of an elegant female.

CHAPTER XX.