Knight had at first become almost angry at her persistent refusal of his offering--and no less with the manner than the fact of it.

But he saw that she began to look worn and ill--and his vexation lessened to simple perplexity.
He ceased now to remain in the house for long hours together as before, but made it a mere centre for antiquarian and geological excursions in the neighbourhood.

Throw up his cards and go away he fain would have done, but could not.

And, thus, availing himself of the privileges of a relative, he went in and out the premises as fancy led him--but still lingered on.
'I don't wish to stay here another day if my presence is distasteful,' he said one afternoon.

'At first you used to imply that I was severe with you; and when I am kind you treat me unfairly.' 'No, no.