Freeman’s Withdrawal
No sooner has the squire departed than Freeman, guessing the situation of the narrator’s heart and seeking to do him the greatest favor by leaving him alone with Narcissa, pretends to suddenly recollect himself. He starts up, begs the lady’s pardon for half an hour, and explains that he has unfortunately remembered an engagement of some consequence that must be performed immediately. He takes his leave, promising to return in time for tea, and leaves Narcissa and the narrator together in great confusion, both uncertain how to proceed.
Declaration of Passion
Now that the narrator enjoys the opportunity to disclose the sentiments of his soul, he finds himself unable to utilize it. He studies numerous pathetic declarations, but when he attempts to give them voice, his tongue refuses its office. Narcissa sits silent with a downcast look full of anxious alarm, her bosom heaving with expectation. After a long pause, the narrator finally begins with expressions of surprise that love should act so inconsistently as to deprive its votaries of their faculties when they need them most. He declares his passion for the loveliest of her sex, explaining that it took possession of his soul while cruel fate compelled him to wear a servile disguise unsuitable to his birth, sentiments, and deserts. He confesses that this disguise was favorable in one respect, as it furnished him with opportunities to see and adore her perfections, and that her dear idea entered his bosom where it has lived unimpaired amid countless cares and animated him against a thousand dangers and calamities.
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