under a perfect conviction that by the course I am taking I shall best perform the duties to which I have alluded.  I do not think, Hetta, that we need say any more about that.’  He had spoken so seriously, that, though she did not quite understand all that he had said, she did not venture to dispute his will any further.  He did not endeavour to exact from her any promise, but having explained his purposes, kissed her as he would have kissed a daughter, and then left her and rode home without going into the house.

Soon after that, Paul Montague came down to Carbury, and the same thing was said to him, though in a much less solemn manner.  Paul was received quite in the old way.  Having declared that he would throw all anger behind him, and that...