William he did not consider to be a marrying man; and Cyril--every one knew that Cyril was a woman-hater.
He was doubtless attracted now only by Billy's music.

There was no real rivalry to be feared from William and Cyril.

But there was always Calderwell, and Calderwell was serious.

Bertram decided, therefore, after some weeks of feverish unrest, that the only road to peace lay through a frank avowal of his feelings, and a direct appeal to Billy to give him the great boon of her love.
Just here, however, Bertram met with an unexpected difficulty.

He could not find words with which to make his avowal or to present his appeal.
He was surprised and annoyed.