Ext. A midsummer dawn. Thornfield the grounds

ST JOHN (CONT'D)

God and nature intended you for a

missionary's wife. You are formed

for labour not for love. I want

to claim you - not for my

pleasure but for God's service.

JANE

I'm not fit for it. I have no

vocation.

ST JOHN

You're far too humble.

Jane Eyre adapted by Moira Buffini March 2008 109.

JANE

St John have mercy. I feel my

mind shrinking -

ST JOHN

Don't be afraid. You are diligent,

faithful, docile, courageous,

gentle and heroic. Cease to

mistrust yourself. I trust you

unreservedly. Let me give you time

to think. But know this; in you, I

recognise a fellow soul, a soul

that would revel in the flame and

excitement of sacrifice.

Jane is chilled to the bone by his words. St John leaves

the garden and walks away over the moors.

CUT TO:

Jane leaning against the garden wall, trying to think,

trying to compose herself. The sun is setting.