I broke from St. John, who had followed, and would have detained me. It was my turn to assume ascendency. My powers were in play and in force. I told him to forbear question or remark; I desired him to leave me; I must, and would be alone. He obeyed at once. Where there is energy to command well enough, obedience never fails. I mounted to my chamber, locked myself in, fell on my knees, and prayed in my way – a different way to St. John’s – but effective in its own fashion. I seemed to penetrate very near a Mighty Spirit, and my soul rushed out in gratitude at His feet. I rose from the thanksgiving – took a resolve – and lay down, unscared, enlightened – eager but for the daylight.
– Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre, Chapter 35. Immediately after hearing Rochester’s voice calling her, Jane feels empowered to break away from St. John. Asserting herself against St. John’s religious strength, she commands him to go away and leave her alone. This is a powerful act of self-assertion in which she takes her power back from St. John. Then she goes to her bedroom and offers a thanksgiving prayer to God – for her rescue from the despotic clergyman. Having experienced St. John’s unloving and controlling ways, Jane knows that she loves Rochester.