He spoke continually of himself, indeed, but still in enigmas; a veiled prophet of egoism.
The base of Nance's feelings for Mr.Archer was admiration as for a superior being; and with this, his treatment, consciously or not, accorded happily.

When he forgot her, she took the blame upon herself.
His formal politeness was so exquisite that this essential brutality stood excused.

His compliments, besides, were always grave and rational; he would offer reason for his praise, convict her of merit, and thus disarm suspicion.

Nay, and the very hours when he forgot and remembered her alternately could by the ardent fallacies of youth be read in the light of an attention.

She might be far from his confidence; but still she was nearer it than any one.