He had only to give credence to Emily's own words.

She had said that a change had come in her heart, in her life, and that she no longer loved him.

Understand it he of course could not, nor ever would, unless he lost all faith in woman's honour.
'But this can be either confirmed or refuted speedily,' he exclaimed.
'Can you not make inquiries of this Mr.Dagworthy's friends?
If they know nothing yet, they will soon hear from him.' 'Yes, I can make such inquiries.

But he has a peculiar reputation in Dunfield; I think he scarcely has an intimate friend.' 'Well, there is, at all events, Emily herself.

If this story is baseless, she will be writing to you.' 'I think so.