CHAPTER XXVI 366
He paused , as the custom is . When is the pause after that sentence ever broken by reply ? Not , perhaps , once in a hundred years . And the clergyman , who had not lifted his eyes from his book , and had held his breath but for a moment , was proceeding : his hand was already stretched towards Mr . Rochester , as his lips unclosed to ask , " Wilt thou have this woman for thy wedded wife ?" -- when a distinct and near voice said -
" The marriage cannot go on : I declare the existence of an impediment ."
The clergyman looked up at the speaker and stood mute ; the clerk did the same ; Mr . Rochester moved slightly , as if an earthquake had rolled under his feet : taking a firmer footing , and not turning his head or eyes , he said , " Proceed ."
Profound silence fell when he had uttered that word , with deep but low intonation . Presently Mr . Wood said -
" I cannot proceed without some investigation into what has been asserted , and evidence of its truth or falsehood ."
" The ceremony is quite broken off ," subjoined the voice behind us . " I am in a condition to prove my allegation : an insuperable impediment to this marriage exists ."
Mr . Rochester heard , but heeded not : he stood stubborn and rigid , making no movement but to possess himself of my hand . What a hot and strong grasp he had ! and how like quarried marble was his pale , firm , massive front at this moment ! How his eye shone , still watchful , and yet wild beneath !
Mr . Wood seemed at a loss . " What is the nature of the impediment ?" he asked . " Perhaps it may be got over -- explained away ?"
" Hardly ," was the answer . " I have called it insuperable , and I speak advisedly ."