“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.