And it is best to fix our minds on that certainty, instead of considering what may be the elements of excuse for us.

But I never knew you so inclined for moral discussion, Arthur?
Is it some danger of your own that you are considering in this philosophical, general way ?" In asking this question, Mr.Irwine pushed his plate away, threw himself back in his chair, and looked straight at Arthur.

He really suspected that Arthur wanted to tell him something, and thought of smoothing the way for him by this direct question.

But he was mistaken.

Brought suddenly and involuntarily to the brink of confession, Arthur shrank back and felt less disposed towards it than ever.