Would it not be better for Lily that he should desert her, than marry her against the dictates of his own heart?
And if he really did not love her, would he not be committing a greater crime in marrying her than in deserting her?
He confessed to himself that he had been very wrong in allowing the outer world to get such a hold upon him that the love of a pure girl like Lily could not suffice for his happiness.

But there was the fact, and he found himself unable to contend against it.

If by any absolute self-sacrifice he could secure Lily's well-being, he would not hesitate for a moment.

But would it be well to sacrifice her as well as himself?
He had discussed the matter in this way within his own breast, till he had almost taught himself to believe that it was his duty to break off his engagement with Lily; and he had also almost taught himself to believe that a marriage with a daughter of the house of Courcy, would satisfy his ambition and assist him in his battle with the world.

That Lady Alexandrina would accept him he felt certain, if he could only induce her to forgive him for his sin in becoming engaged to Miss Dale.