After the vain attempt to release herself from what was now distinctly a compromising situation, she sat down in an easier attitude than before, as though resolved to enjoy her liberty whilst she might.

There was a suspicion in her mind that Bevis had arranged this interview; she doubted the truth of his explanation.

And indeed she hoped that his sisters would not return until after her departure; it would be very embarrassing to meet them.
Whilst talking and listening, she silently defended herself against the charge of impropriety.

What wrong was she committing?
What matter that they were alone?
Their talk was precisely what it might have been in other people's presence.

And Bevis, such a frank, good-hearted fellow, could not by any possibility fail in respect to her.