Edwin tried to explain; but, as he had to conceal the real truth, his explanation rather tended to make things appear worse than better.
Kate heard the announcement with no less surprise than her father.
The thing was so sudden, so unlooked for, and, moreover, so uncalled for, that she could not understand it.

In order to take away any pecuniary reason for the step he was about to take, Mr.Darlington, after holding a long conversation with Edwin, made him offers far more advantageous than his proposed expedition could be to him, viewed in any light.

But he made them in vain.

Edwin acknowledged the kindness, in the warmest terms, but remained firm in his purpose to sail with the vessel.
"Why will you go away and leave us, Edwin ?" said Kate, one evening when they happened to be alone, about two weeks before his expected departure.

"I do think it very strange!" Edwin had avoided, as much as possible, being alone with Kate, a fact which the observant maiden had not failed to notice.