Elinor, starting back with a look of horror at the sight of him, obeyed the first impulse of her heart in turning instantly to quit the room, and her hand was already on the lock, when its action was suspended by his hastily advancing, and saying, in a voice rather of command than supplication.
"Miss Dashwood, for half an hour-for ten minutes—1 entreat you to stay. ... My business is with you, and only you."
"With me!" —in the utmost amazement— "well, sir—be quick—and if you can—less violent."
"Sit down, and I will be both."
She hesitated; she knew not what to do. ...
After a moment's recollection... concluding that prudence required dispatch, and that her acquiescence would best promote it, she walked silently towards the table and sat down.