You misunderstood my turning back, and I cannot explain it.

It was wrong to go with you at all; and though it would have been worse to go further, it would have been better policy, perhaps.

Be assured of this, that whenever you have a home for me--however poor and humble--and come and claim me, I am ready.' She added bitterly, 'When my father knows of this day's work, he may be only too glad to let me go.' 'Perhaps he may, then, insist upon our marriage at once!' Stephen answered, seeing a ray of hope in the very focus of her remorse.

'I hope he may, even if we had still to part till I am ready for you, as we intended.' Elfride did not reply.
'You don't seem the same woman, Elfie, that you were yesterday.' 'Nor am I.But good-bye.

Go back now.' And she reined the horse for parting.