I cannot make speeches, Emma. If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more. But you know what I am -- you hear nothing but truth from me.

I have blamed you, and lectured you, and you have borne it as no other woman in England would have borne it. Bear with the truths I would tell you now, dearest Emma, as well as you have borne with them. The manner, perhaps, may have as little to recommend them.

God knows, I have been a very indifferent lover -- but you understand me. Yes, you see, you understand my feelings -- and will return them if you can. At present, I ask only to hear, once to hear your voice.