Thomas Hardy: Far from the Madding Crowd

Chapter 19: The Sheep-washing--the Offer (continued)

"I will call upon you again to-morrow."

"No--please not. Give me time."

"Yes--I will give you any time," he said earnestly and gratefully. "I am happier now."

"No--I beg you! Don't be happier if happiness only comes from my agreeing. Be neutral, Mr. Boldwood! I must think."

"I will wait," he said.

And then she turned away. Boldwood dropped his gaze to the ground, and stood long like a man who did not know where he was. Realities then returned upon him like the pain of a wound received in an excitement which eclipses it, and he, too, then went on.