And your will shall decide your destiny," he said: "I offer you my hand, my heart, and a share of all my possessions."

You play a farce, which I merely laugh at."

I ask you to pass through life at my side--to be my second self, and best earthly companion."

For that fate you have already made your choice, and must abide by it."

Jane, be still a few moments: you are over-excited: I will be still too."

A waft of wind came sweeping down the laurel-walk, and trembled through the boughs of the chestnut: it wandered away--away--to an indefinite distance--it died. The nightingale's song was then the only voice of the hour: in listening to it, I again wept. Mr. Rochester sat quiet, looking at me gently and seriously. Some time passed before he spoke; he at last said -

Come to my side, Jane, and let us explain and understand one another."

I will never again come to your side: I am torn away now, and cannot return."

But, Jane, I summon you as my wife: it is you only I intend to marry."

I was silent: I thought he mocked me.

Come, Jane--come hither."

Your bride stands between us."

He rose, and with a stride reached me.

My bride is here," he said, again drawing me to him, "because my equal is here, and my likeness. Jane, will you marry me?

Charlotte Brontë