"As we are!" repeated Mr. Rochester--"so," he added, enclosing me in his arms. Gathering me to his breast, pressing his lips on my lips: "so, Jane!"

     "Yes, so, sir," I rejoined: "and yet not so; for you are a married man--or as good as a married man, and wed to one inferior to you--to one with whom you have no sympathy--whom I do not believe you truly love; for I have seen and heard you sneer at her. I would scorn such a union: therefore I am better than you--let me go!"

     "Where, Jane? To Ireland?"

     "Yes--to Ireland. I have spoken my mind, and can go anywhere now."

     "Jane, be still; don't struggle so, like a wild frantic bird that is rending its own plumage in its desperation."

     "I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will, which I now exert to leave you."

     Another effort set me at liberty, and I stood erect before him.