He knew likewise that he would probably experience a great deal of difficulty in finding another family which would afford the young girl quite the same equality coupled with so few disadvantages.

Admitted that its level of intellect and taste was not high, Mrs.Renwick was on the whole a good influence.
Helen had not in the least the position of servant, but of a daughter.
She helped around the house; and in return she was fed, lodged and clothed for nothing.
So though the money might have enabled Helen to live independently in a modest way for a year or so, Thorpe preferred that she remain where she was.

His game was too much a game of chance.

He might find himself at the end of the year without further means.

Above all things he wished to assure Helen's material safety until such time as he should be quite certain of himself.
In pursuance of this idea he had gradually evolved what seemed to him an excellent plan.