If he reflected on the matter, no doubt he was very satisfied with himself, feeling that he had displayed a manly resolution and consistency.

But the present difficulty was grave.

Whatever Adela might say, there could be no doubt as to her thought; she would henceforth--yes, despise him.

That cut his thick skin to the quick; his nature was capable of smarting when thus assailed.

For he had by no means lost his early reverence for Adela; nay, in a sense it had increased.