have done, or that I have proved myself ungrateful for the affectionate kindness which you have always shown me.  I am authorised by Hetta to say that, had I never spoken to her, it must have been the same to you. [This was hardly a fair representation of what had been said, but the writer, looking back upon his interview with the lady, thought that it had been implied.]

I should not say so much by way of excusing myself, but that you once said, that should such a thing occur there must be a division between us ever after.  If I thought that you would adhere to that threat, I should be very unhappy and Hetta would be miserable.  Surely, if a man loves he is bound to tell his love, and to take the chance.  You would hardly have thought it manly...