Dorinda warned me not to go far from the house because supper would be ready in a few minutes.

The word "supper" reminded me of my unfortunate choice of an excuse and the sarcastic reference to our odd domestic arrangements; which reminded me, in its turn, of other sarcasms which had followed it.
My "charming and cultivated society" was not necessary to her happiness.

.

.

When she thought of how she had lowered herself.