Rhoda's self-possession notwithstanding, he believed that he was not without power over her.

She liked to talk with him, enjoyed the freedom he allowed himself in choice of subject.
Perhaps no man before had ever shown an appreciation of her qualities as woman.

But she would not yield, was in no real danger from his love-making.

Nay, the danger was to his own peace.

He felt that resistance would intensify the ardour of his wooing, and possibly end by making him a victim of genuine passion.