'It seemed to me--it seems to me now--like trying to catch you--a girl better in the world than I.' 'Not that, indeed! And am I better in worldly station?
What's the use of have beens?
We may have been something once; we are nothing now.' Then they whispered long and earnestly together; Stephen hesitatingly proposing this and that plan, Elfride modifying them, with quick breathings, and hectic flush, and unnaturally bright eyes.

It was two o'clock before an arrangement was finally concluded.
She then told him to leave her, giving him his light to go up to his own room.

They parted with an agreement not to meet again in the morning.
After his door had been some time closed he heard her softly gliding into her chamber..