Miss Hale, I didn't just come here to thank you. I came... because... I think it... very likely... I know I've never found myself in this position before. It's... difficult to find the words. Miss Hale, my feelings for you... are very strong...
Margaret Hale:
Please! Stop. Pray, please don't go any further.
John Thornton:
Excuse me?
Margaret Hale:
Please don't continue in that way. It's not the way of a gentleman.
John Thornton:
I'm well aware that in your eyes at least, I'm not a gentleman. But I think I deserve to know why I am offensive.
Margaret Hale:
It offends me that you should speak to me as if it were your... duty to rescue my reputation!
John Thornton:
I spoke to you about my feelings because I love you; I had no thought for your reputation!

